You know that kind of fun that doesn’t really seem like you’re having fun but then you look back on it later and you’re like “man, I can’t wait to do that again!” This sums up nearly every run, hike and backpacking trip I’ve ever done.
If you’ve come within three feet of me lately you’ve probably heard all about the book I’ve been reading called “The Comfort Crisis” by Michael Easter. This book is about that.
The sense of accomplishment and satisfaction we get from doing hard things. Easter talks about how we’ve been on this this earth for millions of years and how we’ve only had our modern comforts for the last 100. By his calculations that’s .0004% of our human existence that we’ve spent being comfortable. We, by nature, are designed to embrace the suck.
This book spoke to me as a runner as well as someone that spends way too much time on my phone. When we skirt our comfort zones by training for some new physical challenge or get outside and away from the constant notifications and emails, we open ourselves up to a whole new level of resiliency, potential, and focus.
Joe, Jen and I spent four days down in Los Olivos for the Born to Run Ultra Marathon, mostly out of cell phone service, running and hiking lap after lap on the rolling hills of the Chamberlin Ranch. I don’t think any of us thought we’d be capable of the mileage we racked up, but we just kept moving – thanks to the Luis Escobar 5:30 am daily wakeup call complete with honkytonk music over the loudspeakers. And while it’s been weeks since the event was run and done, my mind keeps drifting back to the simpleness of having one task, the mist in the air at midnight, the near miss skunk encounter, and the knowledge that yes, my body can carry me for 100 miles when I need it to.
We weren’t the only ones out there running up the miles. Half of 2025 has blown by and Templeton Run Club runners have been sailing through races around the world. January kicked off with the Running Chicken in Santa Margarita, followed by races in Ventura then Bakersfield. From there the training ramped up to include world marathon majors in Boston and London, and back home at the Big Sur Marathon. In May we ran some trails at Wildflower triathlon and finished some major miles at the Born to Run Ultra Marathon. This month we had back-to-back runs at the Templeton Rec Barrelhouse 5k and then the Lighthouse 5k in Santa Margarita. And the summer hasn’t even started! For more information on upcoming summer runs, including the Atascadero All Comers Meets starting Wednesdays in July, check out the Local Races page.
One summer event we are especially pumped for is the 4th of July 5k in beautiful downtown Templeton. We are teaming up with the Rotary Club of Templeton to kick off Independence Day with a red, white and blue run and walk down Main Street. We’ll have bandanas for the first 50 participants who sign up and “Run Templeton” hats for a $25 donation. You can find more information and sign up for free at templeton4thJulyparade.com/5k.
July also kicks off our 20-week training program for the November Tierra Redonda Mountain Trail Run and the City to the Sea Half Marathon. Tierra Redonda will offer a 5k, 10k, 20k, 24 hour run and 48 hour run (with rumors of buckles for our 50- and 100-mile finishers!) City to the Sea will offer a 5k and Half Marathon with an ocean front finish.
Our TRC training program will cover the basics for new runners wanting to run a half marathon. We’ll also have an intermediate level for those that have already been running. You’ll have access to RRCA and USATF run club coaches throughout the program for questions on things like shoes, fueling and nutrition requirements, and injury prevention. 
Still sitting on the couch? You’ll have plenty of time to lace up and start training! For access to this free training program with monthly email updates (starting June 29th), sign up HERE or find it on our website under Training Program.
Last month we were able to present two $500 scholarships to Templeton High School Track and Field Athletes, Keani Neuhs and Zach Rubin. These athletes were two of several that submitted essays in response to the prompt “How did Track & Field or Cross-Country impact you through high school and how might if affect your future in athletics?” These essays were read and graded by TRC members on promptness, quality and content. It is touching to learn how running has already shaped their paths in life as well as inspiring to read of their hopes for the future. Both essays have been included below for your reading enjoyment.
Our next run club meeting is scheduled for Thursday, June 19th at Cowboy Pizza in Templeton. Meet us at 6pm to discuss planning for the 4th of July 5k, run club runs, member input on future events, and continuing our run club goals for the year. Everyone is welcome, even if you’re not a runner and want to get involved! We’d love to see you!
Our weekly summer runs are track workouts on Tuesdays at Templeton High School at 6pm, Thursday mornings at 6am, and Saturday morning at 7am from Templeton Park. You can RSVP and find the most up-to-date information regarding routes and workouts on our Strava page.
That’s all for now! Happy Running!
Rosalie Smith
RRCA Level I/ USATF Level II Certified Coach
rosaliesmith@templetonrunclub.com
Templeton Run Club
PO Box 522
Templeton, Ca. 93465
How did Track & Field or Cross-Country impact you through high school and how might if affect your future in athletics?”
Essay by Keani Neuhs
Running has been one of the most influential parts of my high school experience, shaping my relationships, character, and future. Ever since I was a kid, I told people, “When I get to college, I’m going to run D1 track.” At the time, I didn’t fully understand what that meant, and most people didn’t believe I could do it. But with persistence and drive, I made that dream a reality.
I grew up racing in local All-Comers meets, a few 5Ks, and ran one middle school track season. Still, I entered high school knowing I wanted to seriously pursue both cross country and track. My freshman cross country season was highly successful; I medaled at competitive races and qualified for the California State Meet. I had high hopes for my first track season too, but when league finals came around, I showed up in a boot and crutches instead of race day attire. X-rays revealed two stress fractures in my right foot. What they didn’t show were the mental challenges that came with injury: fear, doubt, and a loss of confidence.
Sophomore year was a turning point. I struggled with mental blocks and the frustrating cycle of setbacks. I felt stuck. But it was through these moments that I learned persistence. I learned to keep showing up, to keep trying, even when it was hard. That year taught me the value of patience, internal grit, and the importance of self-reflection. Since then, I’ve faced other injuries, a labral tear, chronic shin splints, and soleus tears in both legs, but because of what I learned early on, each setback has made me a stronger runner and an even stronger person.
Beyond the physical challenges, the team environment of track and cross country helped me grow as a leader. I learned how to support others, when to step up, and when to step back and let others lead. I’ve come to deeply respect coaches and teammates who bring knowledge and positivity. I’ve seen how a healthy, uplifting team culture directly translates to strong performance. And I’ve learned to cheer for my competitors too, because when they succeed, it pushes me to grow. In relays especially, I’ve discovered the importance of communication and trust.
Next year, I’ll be running Division I track at UC San Diego. Running has opened the door for me to compete at the highest collegiate level while pursuing academics at a top university. Track has shaped who I am, and it will continue to impact my life—not just through athletics, but in how I approach challenges, lead others, and stay committed to long-term goals.
How did Track & Field or Cross-Country impact you through high school and how might if affect your future in athletics?”
by Zach Rubin
In high school, I have been a varsity athlete in track and field for all four years, while also running cross country my sophomore year. These sports have played a big role in shaping who I am today. They’ve helped me grow as a person, taught me important life lessons, and inspired me to set big goals for my future. I plan to major in Business Finance in college, then earn an MBA in Sports Management. Eventually, I hope to become a professional sports agent or work for a professional sports team. The discipline, resilience, and teamwork I’ve developed through athletics have motivated me to pursue one of those careers.
Running has taught me perseverance. From long practices to tough workouts, I’ve learned how to stay focused, work hard, and keep improving over time. This year especially, I’ve had to learn to persevere. Straining my quad twice hasn’t been easy, but it motivates me to work even harder and take each day as a new opportunity to get better. These injuries taught me not to let a setback get to you in a negative way when things get difficult. Experiencing what it’s like to not be physically able to compete has shown me how much I enjoy track and field. I still feel a strong desire to compete, and also feel like I have a lot of room left for improvement. This has motivated me to want to try out for the Cal Poly track team in the fall.
Competing in sports has also given me chances to be a leader. As I got older, I feel I naturally stepped into a mentorship role, helping younger teammates by teaching and sharing experiences that I have had. My involvement in sports and community service has shown me how powerful sports can be in bringing people together. Whether I have been cheering for a teammate or watching a big professional sports game, I’ve noticed how sports create energy, passion, and relationships among people. This has moved my desire to want to stay involved in the sports world while using my interest in business to support athletes. A career as a sports agent or working on the business side of a professional team would let me combine these two passions.
Looking ahead, I know the lessons I’ve learned from running such as commitment, teamwork, and pushing through setbacks will stay with me later down the road. Whether I’m negotiating contracts or helping manage a team’s success, I believe the experiences I’ve had as an athlete have prepared me for the future. Sports have helped shape my identity, and now I hope they will shape my future. With a strong foundation in Business Finance and plans for an MBA in Sports Management, I’m excited to build a career where I can support others and stay close to sports that I love.
So much joy and pain all stemming from the same event. This year was the 3rd annual Tierra Redonda Trail Run hosted by All We Do Is Run and Templeton Run Club (TRC). This event has been a great addition for running the running community in San Luis Obispo County. The event includes 48 Hour, 24 Hour, 2OK, 10K and 5K r
aces. As a member of TRC, I have volunteered at the event and raced the 10K for the first 2 years. Early in 2024, I decided I was going to compete in the 24 hour race to attempt an ultramarathon distance. In November 2024, I held to this plan and competed in the race.
The weekend was perfect. The weather was incredible. The Smith Ranch was impeccable. The camping area had tons of people around with campers and tents. The event organizers were exceptional and the races were tons of fun. The stage was set for my attempt at an ultra marathon completion. All I needed to do was complete five 10K loops in 24 hours, easy right? Nope, it was hard. Each lap has about 850+ feet of elevation change. 
The Start: we began with a great speech by Luis and a gun start by the owners of the ranch. What a rush to start with the energy of the crowd! Some are setting off for a 5K or 10K loop and others are setting off for many hours and hours of loops, but everyone is just as excited as the person next to them. The first loop on the Smith ranch demonstrated scenic views and challenging terrain. At the top of the teardrop you could see the water of Lake Nacimiento. A must stop to enjoy the view.
Lap 4 was so much fun. My fellow TRC member Maren and I set out together for a lap of walking, conversation and enjoyment of the approaching sunset. We made it to the top of the tear drop in time to enjoy the golden hour. What a sight with such gorgeous colors.
Also, you’re invited to join us next 
It’s been a while since I’ve been able to write up a run club newsletter and we have a few exciting updates. First, we have a new logo! I’m sure by now many of you have seen it on social media or on Strava. We loved our original, but it’s taken a few years as a club to find something unique to us. We’ve teased each other about chasing bunnies during races (usually the cute ones with the crop tops) and seen actual bunnies on our long runs. Then there are the really-long run conversations that come up wondering what the difference is between a bunny and a rabbit (hint: one is younger.) And when we talked about a team mascot, of course the bunny came up. So as such, our new logo has evolved.
With that, we have also been working with Cloud 9 Sports and the folks at New Balance to order our first Templeton Run Club Team Singlet. Nicole and I went down to the Venture Half Marathon at the end of February and it was so fun to see all the runners repping their teams and clubs at the race. The singlets are separate from the team store and I plan on placing an order next week. (Colors are navy blue, orange and white and may look a little different from the picture.) They are $52 before tax and shipping. If you would like to buy one, please email me your size by March 20th. There is a 4 week turn around so hopefully we’ll get them by mid-April.
Plantar fasciitis. Also known as that dumb achy pain on the bottom of your foot or heel people commonly feel first thing in the morning after getting up from bed. Caused by many different things from tight calves to wearing the wrong shoes, it’s a common overuse injury in runners and affects over 3 million people per year. As a nurse, I know a thing or two about medical conditions, so when I started feeling that achy heel and foot pain, I figured it was PF….aka pffft.
While we might have had just as many student coaches as we did campers, it was incredibly successful. Our THS athletes proved to be good mentors and excellent role models to some incredibly talented youth athletes. Thank you to our adult volunteers, student coaches and run club members that came out to make this camp run smoothly! And a shout out to our community partner 
She said it would be easy. She said I would love it. She said that I would have zero issues. Well, “She” lied. I’m talking about my long-time running pal Amy. Sometimes I get roped into things that are out of my comfort zone because I love a challenge. For instance, a group of friends were all doing a 3-day juice cleanse and anybody that knows me well, knows that I love to eat. I never go without a meal, but I decided that because 3 days wasn’t challenging enough, I would do a 5-day juice cleanse. It was terrible, and nobody wanted to be around me after the second day. So, when Amy asked if I wanted to do the Wild Cherry Canyon Marathon, I couldn’t resist the challenge.
Fast forward to the day of the race. I felt ready! Solid training, no injuries, proper sleep and hydration the week prior. Everything was lining up to be a great day. The sold-out race consisted of runners competing in a 50-mile ultra marathon, 26.2 mile marathon, half marathon and a 5 mile hike. The gun goes off and we all take off. I usually start a bit more conservatively because it takes me a few miles to get warmed up. Welp, I clocked my first mile at a 13:15, that sucked! This was tough and I mean walking with my hands on my knees gasping for air tough. The first loop was also the same route as the 5-mile hike which took us past the start line. I got to see some of my friends, smarter friends, that had opted for the lesser mileage events. They thought I was crazy for doing the full marathon and at this point, 5 miles in, it was becoming painfully obvious that they were right. I continued climbing hill after hill, with some running and a lot of walking. I typically don’t allow myself to ever walk in a race but there was no other choice for me. I watched people twice my size climb hills like mountain goats as I wallowed in my own misery and puttered along asking myself what the heck was wrong with me. I wanted to quit over and over again but didn’t. I found the aid station twice with the real food and had no shame in stopping for a Sprite and a PB&J, and when you’re that tired everything tastes amazing!
It was a cool and pleasant Thanksgiving morning when that changed. I had finished the prep work for our feast, and I had started the turkey in the oven, so what better time to go out for a run than while everything was cooking? And that is when everything changed.
As a group City to Sea 2021 was a smashing success. Twenty of us in Atomic Blue Shirts doing our warm-up together inspired random runners to join in with our pre-run/race ritual. Whether you were running or spectating, our shirts were easy to spot from a distance. We did TRC proud that day.
ow this bonk was in no way a fault of my TRC running buddies. They were the best. Now, imagine, if you will, a chipmunk drinking coffee, inhaling helium, and talking super fast. That would pretty much summarize my newly acquired little sister and running buddy, Susan. Susan had run Boston the last 9 years in a row and easily qualified for Boston yet again this year. I got a call from her, and she is saying that not only did she get accepted to Boston, but they used her adjusted M2B time! ( Remember, M2B messed up the course! ). I had submitted my M2B run just for fun, and son of a biscuit, they accepted me using an adjusted time!!! Considering my first marathon experience, I was not super excited about going to Boston, but my lovely wife Kellie said, “If you qualify, you are going!” So now I was Boston bound.
After a long drizzly ride, we disembark into a flood of people trying to figure out how to stay dry and where is the starting line. Remember 30,000 runners. You don’t just fire a pistol and say go! Several waves separate the elite from us, mere mortals. The elites start at 10 am. Next wave 10:25, then 10:50, and finally 11:15. My wave was 10:50. But within each wave were corrals! Based on your qualifying time, you are assigned a corral, so the faster qualifiers start before, the slower ones. Remember my TRC buddies? The ones I trained with mile after mile. Well, they were assigned corrals 3&4, whereas I was back in 7. I admit, I tried to sneak into their corral, but I got called out and had to do the walk of shame backward thousands of runners to my corral. 10:50 crept around, and we all got ready to start. Rain ponchos and throw-away gear was tossed aside as the minutes crept by, and finally, we started towards the start line! From where the bus lets you off to the actual start line was just under a mile! 
Remember my Bonk in M2B? Well, that was my biggest fear: that I’d run 18 miles and then cramp up. I decided early on that I would never catch my TRC buddies because they started 3 minutes before me. My strategy for Boston was to treat the first 21 miles like a training run. I soaked in the crowds, my fellow runners, the scenery, and the drizzle, constantly telling myself to slow down. After the first 16 miles starts a series of four hills that culminate with Heartbreak Hill. By itself, Heartbreak would be a nothing burger, but coming after a series of hills, it really takes its toll on some. As I started up Heartbreak, just after mile marker 20, I looked around and smiled because I knew I was feeling great and I had my secret weapon waiting at the top of the hill: Kellie! Sure enough, as I crested Heartbreak, I spotted Kellie, Joe, and Sandi. The hardest part was done, so now it was time to race! I found some kid weaving through the crowds at a pace I thought I could maintain, and we took off down the hills onward to Boston with my blocker making a path for me. It was a great theory that lasted for a while, but the crowds were still way too thick even so far into the run that I could only keep up with him for a few miles. I had studied the course beforehand and knew some landmark buildings that beckoned me toward the finish. It is at this point that the crowds are what really get you going. It was such an awesome feeling making the last few turns, looking way down the street, and seeing the finish line. In my mind, I was sprinting to the finish…reality might have disagreed. But, stepping over that finish line made everything worth it. Later reviewing the pictures, all you could see was me reaching to stop my Garmin as I crossed the line, whereas the seasoned runners like Susan put on more of a photo finish smile and flourish!
Speaking of Susan and Rosalie too, we never talked about how to find each other after the race… Remember, still 30,000 runners, and it never thinned out. After crossing the finish, you are suddenly on autopilot. Herd mentality. Stop running. Move forward. Keep going. More runners are coming in behind you. In a daze, I crept forward, but out of nowhere, I spotted my TRC buddies 100 yards ahead! Somehow despite the thousands of runners between us, we reconnected in time to receive our swag, all of us finishing within less than a minute difference!
Now I’m in my 50’s and my kids are all grown. My life is relatively stress free, so the NEED to run for my mental health has waned a bit. A few years ago I came to grips with the fact that I have slowed down. It was a hard reality. I guess it’s just one of the downsides of running for so many years. Every runner peaks, but since I’ve been running for nearly 45 years, I peaked long ago. Unfortunately, it’s taken a toll on my motivation. 
