Augmenting Adiposity (Takin' it Easy)

If you're a person who keeps up with such things, you may have noticed I've done little to no running over the last week or so. This isn't due to injury, burnout, or any other ailment common to a runner's life. It is simply a break from running. Each year around Independence Day and Christmas I take about two weeks to pig out and enjoy the holidays. I MIGHT run or bike some during these times, but probably not. While breaks like these aren't necessarily key to a great running career, I think they are integral to a long one. Which to me is the more important of the two.

This years' 4th of July break has been a good one. One particular story I'd like to share is a fish tale. During a fishing trip this past Wednesday on the Big Pigeon River I was taking quite a beating from my Dad. By the end of the day he had caught the two largest fish as well as doubling my total (20 Bass for him, 10 for me).

One of two very good-sized Smallmouth Bass

To my credit, I did manage to catch the most inches of fish in one cast. Let me explain... About mid-way through the trip I accepted defeat, if I couldn't out-fish Dad I figured I would at least have fun in defeat. So I tied on a topwater lure. These lures don't produce as many fish, but the ones you do catch are a lot of fun. After about my 3rd cast with a baby torpedo, I heard the characteristic "Ploosh!" of a topwater strike. Initially thinking I had caught the fish of the day, I was soon confused to see a fish only in the 12in range. As I pulled the fish from the water it became clear why this little guy had produced such a fight, he had some assistance... there were TWO fish on one lure. I've heard of this happening, but never quite believed it. Luckily I have photo documentation!

In other news, there are folks who haven't been taking breaks. One is Jen Davis, a NC based ultrarunner who is currently trying to lower the overall record of 47 days for traversing the ENTIRE Appalachian Trail. She's having some shin issues, but if she works through them she has a good shot of lowering the mark. Personally, I'd love to see everybody get chic'd!

An equally impressive, but lower profile feat has been Matt Kirk's thru-hike of the Mountains to Sea Trail. A long distance hiking trail running lengthwise across North Carolina. He covered the state in 24 days, not too shabby!

My hat goes off to these two. I will eat copious amounts of blackberry cobbler and ice cream over the next few days in their honor.