Author: Rosalie Smith

It’s officially summertime! Is anyone else watching their heat acclimation score on Garmin fluctuate over these last few weeks? No? Just me? It’s hot, then it’s cold…you’re in, then you’re out?…bad Katy Perry jokes aside, summer running can be hard when it’s hot out. And if you’re like me and prefer sleeping in over getting up before the sun to run, you might find yourself getting “heat acclimated” a lot quicker than you intended.

One thing that helps me get up in the morning is knowing that I’ll have someone to run with. I know, I know. I preach about accountability and how running buddies keep you showing up, BUT it’s true! I asked Tony to meet me before the TRC Track camp last week because 1) I would’ve slept in and waited ‘til later to run, which 2) would’ve been at a much lower effort because I’m lazy, and 3) I knew he would push me to run a little quicker and make for a higher quality run.  Which he did. And I was dying running up Vineyard hill, but it was a solid run and was exactly what I needed for the day.

Some of our THS Track & Field Alumni and current collegiate athletes came back last week to help us put on our TRC Youth Running Camp. Keani Neuhs, Zach Rubin,and Kennedy McAdoo coached a small group of 3^rd-6^th graders on form, running drills, and the art of having fun while running competitively. Fun fact, Keani and Zach were both recipients of our 2025 TRC Scholarships! Big THANK YOU to these athletes for paying it forward and dedicating their time to our young runners. Another big THANK YOU to GH Sports for contributing the sports bottles and fun goodies to give to the kids at the conclusion of camp. This is their 3^rd year donating to our youth camp and it is SO appreciated! If you haven’t been, GH Sports in SLO has a huge selection of running clothes, shoes, electrolytes, GU’s and everything to make your little runner heart happy.

This year we were able to award two more $500 scholarships to Track & Field Athletes Kate Nicholson and William Wallace. Both wrote essays in response to the prompt how Track & Field or Cross-Country impacted them through high school and how might it affect their future in athletics. Both meaningful essays are shared below for everyone to enjoy.

The Templeton 4^th of July 5k is just a few short weeks away! Don’t forget to sign up! Proceeds will go back to Templeton Run Club and the Rotary Club of Templeton for local community events and scholarship programs. This timed event will run through the small town of Templeton and down the parade route on Main Street proven to be a fast 5k run or a leisurely walk. Top finisher prizes will be awarded to the overall male and female winners. Registration is $20 for adults ($30 on race day) and FREE for kids 17 years old and younger. Bring your friends, bring your friends kids, tell your neighbors, convince strangers in line at the grocery store! Sign up at https://www.templeton4thjulyparade.com/5krun

Don’t want to run? Come volunteer! We could absolutely use some help checking people in and working an aid station. Don’t want to get up that early? Come ride with us on the float! (See that, options for everyone!) We’ll be teaming up with Templeton XC again in the parade and would love more people to ride and walk with us!

Looking ahead to the fall, the Tierra Redonda Trail Run is scheduled for September 19^th. Enjoy a weekend of camping, live music, trail running, and good people. I’m excited for this date change, not only because I think we’ll avoid some mud, but the evenings in September can be spectacular.  The 48-hour event starts Friday, September 18^th with the Last One Standing Event that morning. The 10k, 20k and 24-hour events start Saturday, September 19^th. Check out All We Do is Run for more info or reach out with any questions!

The fall race schedule also includes City to the Sea 5k & Half Marathon October 18^th!  For those gearing up for the half-marathon, a 16-week training block starts June 28^th. Which means summer training starts now! Join us for your long run Saturday mornings at 7am and follow us on Strava to keep up with weekday runs and locations!

As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions or if you just want to chat. Enjoy the essays below!

Happy Running,

Rosalie Smith

Templeton Run Club Scholarship Essay

by William Wallace

The summer before my freshman year, my older brother brought me to Cross Country conditioning. He introduced me to all of his friends, ran with me, and showed me the ropes. Walking through the halls on my first day of high school, there were upperclassmen who I already knew from practice that greeted me by name and made me feel included. As time went on, I grew closer with the amazing group of people that made up the THS Cross Country team.

Two years later, my brother and many of his friends had graduated. We had a new head coach every season, so I began to organize and host the summer conditioning practices that had started my career as a runner. As the upperclassman, one of the top runners, and practice organizer, I had taken on the very role that I had looked up to as a freshman. I did my best to welcome the underclassmen into the Cross Country family.

At the end of my junior season, I earned the title of 2024 Cross Country CIF Central Section Boys Individual Champion by outrunning McFarland’s heavily favored Diego Ochoa with my teammate Beckett Aston taking second close behind me. But two months later, my runner’s high ended abruptly with a hip injury that kept me from running for two months of track practice. Instead of giving up, I spent every practice in the weight room riding a stationary bike and doing core exercises alone. Eventually, I was able to practice with the team again. Despite a lack of ordinary training for months, I ran a 10:00.03 in the 3200 meter in our second to last meet, leaving me just shy of my sub-ten goal for the season. At CIF I paced evenly with 75 second laps until the last lap, when I kicked it into gear to finish with a 9:56.63.

But with the close of my junior season, I realized during the long months of biking in the weight room I wasn’t missing long runs, workouts, or even racing. I missed the team. I missed the family. So instead of buckling down to win another medal or break a record in my senior season, I set a goal to encourage more of the comradery and friendship that had made me feel so welcomed and loved throughout my first three years of high school.

Last summer, in addition to leading practices during our coachless offseason, I organized THS Cross Country’s first parade float at the Templeton 4th of July Parade. After seeing the football and cheer teams in the parade in years past, I wanted to do something to represent our team in a fun and memorable way. Partnering with the Templeton Run Club, we had a group of about fifteen current and past runners running laps around a float.

Just a few weeks ago, I heard about the Incoming Freshmen Information Night. I signed up for a table for Cross Country then set to work. I made flyers that included practice information, a rough schedule for the season, contact information, and a ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ section. I used my 3D printer to make ‘XC’ keychains for Adam and I to hand out when the freshmen answered our fun, running-related questions. When we got there, we were the only sport with student representatives. It was a great opportunity to meet the incoming class and get a glimpse into what the team will look like after I’m gone.

I learned a lot from Cross Country about how to be an athlete, such as grit, nutrition, and training, but the most important thing that I’ll take with me going into college athletics is how important it is to find and give back to a team that makes people feel like they belong. Finding a family feels better than any runner’s high and I wouldn’t know that without THS Cross Country.

Templeton Run Club Scholarship Essay

by Kate Nicholson

The bond I created with my three teammates in the 1600-meter relay last track season is something I will never be able to recreate. Our growth from our first race together to our last is unmatchable. Track has fundamentally shaped my emotional maturity, confidence, and coping with pressure. Without these tools, I would not have been able to give my all to my teammates.

The 1600-meter relay is the most mentally and physically demanding event in track and field. During practice, we are all training for our personal events, such as distance running, 800 meters, short sprints, and the hurdles for myself. Each of these different workouts let each of us contribute our own strengths for our relay team and determine which leg each of us run. For the last three years, I have been the starter for our team. Whether it is my relay team or myself, someone is depending on me not to false start and someone will be ecstatic or disappointed in my performance. To defy this immense pressure, my routine getting into the blocks has never changed, and allows me to zone in and focus on doing my job. Practicing my block start over and over until my fingers are stained red from the track and until I am comfortable with the pain, gives me confidence to push out of them fast.

The cornerstone race of our mile relay career was our 4×4 invitational at the Arcadia meet. The Arcadia track and field meet is claimed to be the largest and most competitive invitational in the country. Hundreds of schools and thousands of athletes come to Los Angeles county for the weekend meet to race with committed athletes to division one schools and the best runners all over the country. This track meet was extremely intimidating coming from a small, unknown school with a dirt track. However, this fact also meant we were underestimated and meant that we had nothing to lose but everything to prove. After a long, hot day of waiting until our turn to race, we were placed in the fastest heat of the open section, but in the slowest lane. I was the only leg that had to run the entire lap in my lane, and running in lane nine meant all the other competitors were chasing after me. Behind the blocks, my goal going into the race was to get out fast and hard, and not let anyone pass me. After the starting gun, I pushed out fast and drove hard. I kept my rhythm and adapted the catch me if you can attitude. While running, I knew that I had to get my next teammate in the best position possible, and it pushed me to not give up on the last turn. At this point I was still racing against myself, I could not see anyone in my periphery, but I could here their fast approaching footsteps. In the last hundred meters I wanted to give up, I was sweaty and sticky, my lungs were burning, my legs were heavy as lead, but I knew I couldn’t let down my teammate right in front of me and my supporters who drove all this way. I passed off the baton at the same time two other girls did, ideal to give my next teammate a good position and some push from the other girls. Each of us had a crucial part in that race. We went from being at the end of the pack to slingshotting to first place, with a personal best time of 3:56.13. All of us honored our school and earned respect from being underestimated.

In a span of a month after that race, we kept breaking our record. We took the mountain league title and beat a school three times the size of ours, with a time of 3:55.05, and continued to dominate and snagged the Central Section CIF title as well, we ran our all time best of 3:52.97. We ran our absolute hardest because we knew it would be our last together. Two of the four girls were seniors, and one of them was running on a fractured foot. We qualified for the California State meet, but ran without our strongest runner. I am so proud to be a part of such a close-knit and dominating team.

The strength I gained from running the 4×400 has taught me the tenacity to push myself to the extreme in academics. I have achieved that goal with a weighted GPA of 4.52 and all A’s. This team has also given me the desire to pursue track at the University of California, Santa Barbara and search for the love and sisterhood I built with these girls in all my future friends. Continuing track in college to be on a team is important to me to maintain the feeling of comraderie. I know that I can exceed my future expectations and goals because of this team and the memories we forged together will carry me through college.

I ran today. I thought it was going to be a walk. I told Jen it was going to be a walk. I told Joe too. But instead, I ran. Even when I thought running was going to be too much.  Jen, Nicole and I ran Black Canyon Ultra last month, and while they are gearing up for the Big Sur Marathon, I’m in a recovery block. I’m also coming off of a week of eating and drinking my way around the Central Coast enjoying wineries, family BBQ’s, a quick trip to Yosemite and a lot of late nights laughing and enjoying family in town from Virginia. This is the first time Garmin has told me I’m “strained” without racking up 50 miles for the week. It just goes to show how easy it is for your brain to convince you something is going to be too hard. I felt fine. Did I lower my expectations? Yes. Did I listen to my body and just stick with what felt comfortable? Yes. Did I keep it short? Yes. Was it a fantastic run? No, but I felt a lot more motivated to get back in gear than I did before I started. I read somewhere once, “just because you think it, doesn’t mean it’s true.” Our minds are great story tellers but not always great fact-checkers. I surprised myself today and will hopefully remember this the next time I’m convinced something is going to be too hard. (PS: Thank you for showing up Maren and unknowingly peer pressuring me into running with you! HA!)

Has anyone gotten in the spring-cleaning groove and has a pile of stuff to take to goodwill? Bring it to us first! TRC will be having a Yard Sale at 7am this Saturday, March 28^that 1604 Riverglen Dr. in Paso Robles. (This also means Saturday’s group run is on your own!) 100% of sales will go back to Templeton Run Club to support our scholarship program for high school athletes, hosting local events and continuing to promote health and wellness in our community. Items not sold will be donated to Goodwill after the yard sale. Come by on Friday at 5pm to drop items off and join us for a piece of pizza! Bring your friends and stop by Saturday to say hello!

Winter hours officially end this month. Starting April 4^th, we will meet on Saturdays at 7am instead of 8am. Tuesday Track at 6:30am in Paso Robles and 6:00pm in Templeton as well as Thursdays at 6am at Templeton Park will stay the same.  Every first Saturday of the month we meet in Paso Robles.  Our new walking group starts with our runners EVERY Saturday.

April also means we’ll be scheduling group trail runs! We’ll still keep our road runs in town but will start scheduling trail runs on the 3^rd and 5^th Saturdays of the month.  April 18^th will be a run out in the Carrizo Plains hopefully before all the wildflowers are gone for the season.

Our Strava page (<– click there for the link) is still the best way to follow all our activities. It’s a free website and app that you can use to look up runs for the week, read posts regarding meetups outside our normal schedule, get notified about running items for sale, bib transfers, etc. You can also RSVP here for runs and walks so 1) we know you’re coming and will wait for you and 2) so you can get updated route information and times. And don’t worry about hitting that RSVP button, you can always go back and unRSVP if you can’t make it.

Speaking of wildflowers, did you know that the Wildflower Festival held at San Antonio Lake in May offers more than just triathlons?! The Wildflower Experience will offer a 20k Trail Run, and an evening 5k and 10k race best enjoyed with a weekend of camping, listening to live music, taking part in a yoga session or two, and perusing the vendor village for some good food and Wildflower swag.  As an Official Club, Templeton Run Club members get discounted entry into the Wildflower run events. Learn more + register here: https://www.wildflowerexperience.com Race Discount code: AZ3A7L65

As March comes to a close, it’s hard to believe that we’re already nearing the end of the month. Time seems to be flying by, and before we know it, it’ll be July!

We are teaming up again with the Rotary Club of Templeton to host the 4^th of July 5k. We’ll kick off the day with a run down Main St. before the parade and the 4th of July festivities. We voted this year to charge a small entry fee of $20 for adults 18 and over (kids 17 and under run free) to help support TRC and the Rotary. Save the date and keep an eye out on our Facebook and Instagram pages for details on where to register soon!

While you’re at it mark your calendars for the weekend of September 18^th-19^th. After 4 years of hosting the Tierra Redonda Mountain Trail Run in November, we have officially decided we are done with the rain and will deal with the heat instead! This weekend will also include the Last One Standing event where runners will complete a 4.17 mile loop every hour on the hour until only ONE is standing. Come camp out with us and enjoy a weekend of trail running shenanigans! Check it out at https://allwedoisrun.com

The last little piece of news is that Jen is working on new run club singlets with Rabbit! We’ve been looking at their race pace tank that should cost somewhere around $46-48 once the design is complete. We’ll have some mock-ups out soon to review and will start collecting sizes for anyone that’s interested.

Want to get more involved in TRC or have questions, comments, or concerns? Please join us at our next meeting on Wednesday, April 15^th at 6pm in Templeton at Cowboy Pizza.  We’ll discuss upcoming events, club happenings and updates. We would love to see you!

Happy Running!

Rosalie SmithRRCA Level I/ USATF Level II Certified Coach

rosaliesmith@templetonrunclub.com

Templeton Run Club

PO Box 522

Templeton, Ca. 93465

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 4^th 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 29^th), 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 19^th at Cowboy Pizza in Templeton. Meet us at 6pm to discuss planning for the 4^th 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.

Well check this out. A TRC newsletter only a month or so since the last one! I’m patting myself on the back in between typing. Just a few short weeks ago we had our run club meeting and there are a few updates we wanted to make sure to get out to you.

Thank you to all that attended the meeting! A lot of voices make for a more well-rounded club. (Our next one will be Thursday, February 20th at 5pm at Cowboy Pizza in Templeton.) I was able to post our agenda on the website under the meetings and minutes tab so that our members would have better access to all our happenings. Once the meeting minutes are approved, I’ll drop them into the minutes link. Bear with me though…I only know a little technology and (don’t really) know how to use it!

One of the first big changes made is that we are switching our Tuesday morning runs and our Thursday evening track workouts. Starting February 4^th, we will meet up at the THS track for Tuesday evening runs at 6pm and will meet on Thursdays for morning runs at 6:30am from Templeton Park.  We’ll see if this new schedule works for more of our runners.  As usual, check out our club on Strava for the most up to date info on times and meeting locations.

Barrelhouse is onboard with another TRC pub run Saturday, March 22^nd and since Wine Country decided to postpone their half marathon, we decided we’d go ahead run it anyways on Sunday, March 30^th.  More to come on both events!

We also discussed membership and decided to include an optional $25 membership donation for any run club members in a position to do so.  If you haven’t already done so, head on over to the website to renew your 2025 membership by filling out your info under the “Join Us” tab.

Buzz Marathon is back this year on March 1^st with a 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, and Full Marathon out at Camp Roberts. Funds raised this year are for morale, welfare and recreation programs for our soldiers.

Wyatt Barrett, a Templeton High School grad and founder of Western Sierra Adventures reached out and wanted us to share a summer opportunity with our members. They will be hosting two trail running retreats: a 4-day Yosemite Running Retreat and a 6-day High Sierra Running Retreat. They take care of everything – food, permits, logistics and emergency support, so runners can focus on accomplishing something big. Members of TRC can use the code WSARUN20 for 20% off either retreat.  You can find more information at westernsierraadventures.co or email questions to info@wsaadventures.co.

I missed out on the La Cuesta Ranch Trail run last weekend, but it looked like an incredible couple of days put on by All We Do Is Run.  Jen Seay offered to share her recap of All We Do Is Run’s Tierra Redonda Mountain trail run this month as part of getting our members to share running and race day experiences. If you are interested in sharing an experience you’ve had with running, please email me at rosaliesmith@templetonrunclub.com. You could be a long standing member or a newbie! We’d love to hear from you. 

Until next time! Happy Running!

Rosalie Smith
RRCA Level I/ USATF Level II Certified Coach

rosaliesmith@templetonrunclub.com

Templeton Run Club

PO Box 522

Templeton, Ca. 93465

Tierra Redonda Trail Run:  My First 50K!!!

by Jen Seay

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 races.  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.

I then returned to the start/finish area and enjoyed a group of cheerleaders getting me back out on the course for lap 2.  There were so many great people that volunteered to help at the start/finish and out on the course you always had support.  During laps 2 and 3 the sun started to get warmer and I found a tarantula enjoying a stroll on the trail. I had now completed over 18 miles of climbing terrain.  Still a ½ marathon to go to achieve my goal.

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.

On my final lap, Maren and I were joined by Rosalie.  We walked the trail by head lamp and enjoyed such great conversation and catching up on each other’s lives and families.  The moon was so bright that night, it almost looked like the sun was still out on the trail.  The stars were shining and we traversed the trail in the dark.  With the help of some friends I achieved my goal of completing my first 50K and can now say that I completed my first ultramarathon race!

The finish:  I stayed up for many hours into the night after finishing my race to help in the booth.  We logged laps and made food/drinks for the incoming competitors.  I got to spend time getting to know members of the All We Do Is Run crew and hang out with the owners of the ranch.  I highly recommend this event as a competitor or volunteer.

I am so grateful that I came across the TRC one Saturday morning as I drove by the Paso Robles City Park.  This group has become the highlight of my week and I look forward to joining them on many more adventures and races.

Jen Seay

Templeton Run Club

As a self-proclaimed runner nerd, I have all the stuff. A Garmin watch to tell me all my stats. Hydration bottles, belts, vests, hats, and visors. Open ear headphones so I can listen to podcasts and music while still being aware of animals on the trail and the inevitable Toyota Prius on the road.

Not that any of these things make me a better runner, but I could argue some pretty good benefits to each (especially to my husband!)  

The headphones I’ve used might have changed over the years but have allowed me to listen to hundreds of miles of audiobooks, podcasts, and music. I can still hear Deena Kastor’s voice narrating her book “Let your Mind Run” when I run through a wooded section of trail at home. I also clearly remember struggling on a run up Santa Rita Road listening to “Endurance” by Alfred Lansing (great book, poor choice for that run.)

And of course, I LOVE to share stories and educational tidbits from all my favorite podcasts, usually on a long run with my friends where I have a captive audience. (Seriously, listen to the dry-cleaning episode on “Stuff you Should Know.”)

The podcast I listened to today on my run was a little different though. Instead of listening to someone else’s story, I got to listen to my own.  

Luis Escobar, founder of the trail running group All We Do Is Run, came out to the ranch in November and helped us put on the Tierra Redonda Mountain Trail Run. This was our third year hosting the 48hr, 24hr, 20k, 10k, and 5k trail running event that donates back to Templeton Run Club. Fantastic fall weather made for a buttery smooth trail, spectacular views, and crispy cool mornings around the campfire. The donations received from All We Do Is Run have been instrumental in covering operating expenses like insurance, RRCA and USATF membership dues, and banking fees.

Not only is Luis a legend in the trail running community, incredible photographer and race director, but he is also the host of another favorite, the “Road Dog Podcast.” I was starting my fifth lap of the 24-hour race and Luis came with me…with his microphone.

Now don’t get me wrong, I like to talk but I feel like my best thoughts are written, after I’ve had the chance to process, delete, and re-write a hundred times.  The idea of doing a podcast and answering questions off the cuff was intimidating. But Luis is a pro and quickly focused the conversation on all the things I love taking about, the ranch, running, and Templeton Run Club.

I’ll let you listen to the episode on your own (so I can cringe at myself in private) but per the usual, there are a few things I wish I would have mentioned.

San Miguel Lions Club not only came out to BBQ burgers for our runners, but they used the money they collected in donations (plus a little extra) to write us a check for $500. For those of you that have been following along, this is the exact amount of the scholarship we were able to award a Templeton High School athlete. This means that we should be able to award not just one scholarship next year, but TWO! This is huge and we are so grateful for their generosity to us and the community!

Jon Occhipinti, TRC member and the owner of 805 Golf Cart Rentals, was out running the 10k this year.  Fun fact about Jon: he has donated the use of his carts every year since we’ve had the Tierra Redonda Mountain Trail Run and has played a huge part in making sure the logistics of this race go off without a hitch. Thankful for him as a teammate and for his bigheartedness.

I also failed to mention that Templeton Run Club turned FIVE YEARS OLD this year! Support from groups like All We Do Is Run and local businesses like A-List Properties, West Coast Auto and Towing, Fluid Nutrition, Movement for Life, Kman Cyclery, Morro Bay Police officers Association, Simons Construction, and GH Sports have played an integral part in keeping TRC running.

Trevor Franchi with Prescription Roasting Coffee connected with us before the first Tierra Redonda Mountain Trail Run and wanted to find a way to help us reach our goal of providing scholarship opportunities for high school athletes. Trevor is a Templeton local and one of the three Cal Poly grads that started the Templeton based coffee company. For years now, when I receive my order, included is a small donation back to the club and a reminder of the generosity and support we have from an amazing small business. (Use “TRC” on your order for 5% off and a 10% donation back to the club.)

Luis asked me during the podcast what’s next for Templeton Run Club. It caught me off guard, even though I knew the question was coming.

For a little club we’ve been able to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. We met our main goal to start a scholarship program. We’ve trained for local 5k’s, trail runs and world marathon majors. We’ve been able to put on Elementary school Track & Field Camps for the community and one summer camp for the high school cross country runners. What comes next?

As a long-term goal, I would love to see TRC put on a big event north of the grade. Whether we continue working with Luis to expand the Tierra Redonda Mountain Trail run or try to put something on independently.  Short-term goals, to start, include consistency, inclusivity and communication. What else should we work on? Want to share your thoughts with us?

Join us for a TRC meeting on January 16^th at Barrelhouse Brewing at 6pm to keep this conversation going and help us plan out 2025! 

Also, you’re invited to join us next Saturday, December 21^st at 8am for our annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Run! Wear your best Ugly Christmas sweater for a chance to win a top 3 medal! We’ll meet up at Templeton Park (on the fire department side out of the way of Farmer’s Market) for a 5k run or walk around Templeton. 

The Wine Country Half Marathon and 10k is happening on March 30^th this year. Meet us on January 4^th at the Downtown City Park in Paso Robles to kick off our TRC group training program. We’ll train over the first 12 weeks of 2025 to conquer 13.1 miles in beautiful Paso Robles Wine Country.  We’ll meet up on normal run club days for the usual dynamic warm-ups and include some group strength work and post run stretches. Our beginner group will start with a 3-4 mile route. The intermediate group will start with 5-6. This 12 week training program will be free to all our TRC members.  Please feel free to reach out with questions!

Lastly, a BIG thank you to all of our TRC members, sponsors, community partners and supporters that have made the first five years of Templeton Run Club a success. Let’s see what we can do in the next five years!

Happy Running Friends! And Happy Holidays to you and your families! 

Rosalie Smith
RRCA Level I/ USATF Level II Certified Coach

rosaliesmith@templetonrunclub.com

Templeton Run Club

PO Box 522

Templeton, Ca. 93465

Happy picnic season! Grab your blankets, baskets full of goodies and get out there to soak up that spring sunshine! I actually dared to wear shorts on a run a few days ago to try and get a little sun on my white legs. I ran at home so my thankfully my friends were spared from temporary blindness.

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.

Along with the new run club logo, of course we needed new swag! Our next bit of exciting news is that Templeton Run Club now has a Team Store! This is great for us in that we don’t have to worry about purchasing gear and keeping an inventory of mismatched sizes. It’s great for you in that you can order run club gear whenever you like! You can check it out HERE or look for the Team Store page on our website. I’ve ordered recently and it took just over a week to get my order from when I placed it to when it was received.

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 20^th. There is a 4 week turn around so hopefully we’ll get them by mid-April.

Not quite in time for our Barrelhouse 5k Pub Run/ Walk on March 23^rd but that’s ok! We have some swag on the way. Join us for a fun run or walk around Tin City at 10am to be followed by Beermosas for purchase and a free raffle for our participants. All ages and fitness levels are welcome! Bring your friends, parents, kids, neighbors, and random strangers you meet in the grocery store. This is a free community event for all. You can sign up here on Eventbright or RSVP on Strava!

Last bit of news is that while last year we offered a scholarship to Templeton High School Cross Country and/ or Track and Field athletes, we had no takers. This year we’ve had a few submissions and will be providing a $500 scholarship to one Templeton High School Senior! As our club grows, we are hoping to offer this to all our North County Schools. If you know a Templeton High School Senior athlete that hasn’t applied yet, tell them to go to the THS Scholarship page for more information. We are asking for a one page essay on how track and field or cross country impacted you through high school and how it might affect your future in athletics. Submissions are due before May 1^st.

THANK YOU to our Sponsors for supporting our club and making things like our fun runs and scholarships happen! This includes A List Properties, West Coast Auto and Towing, Movement for Life Physical Therapy, Fluid Sports Nutrition, K-Man Cyclery, Morro Bay POA, Simons Construction, San Miguel Lions Club, 805 Golf Carts, and Tenet Health Central Coast.  

Happy Running Friends!

Rosalie Smith

rosaliesmith@templetonrunclub.com

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.

I knew I could start foam rolling and stretching my calves, I knew I could start rolling out the bottom of my foot with the spiky ball and icing after my runs. I knew that my trail shoes were toast and I should probably go get fit for new ones. I didn’t do any of it.

I’m also no spring chicken. While I’m enjoying the developing wisdom that comes with living life  and growing older, I am not enjoying the increased recovery times, the residual soreness, and learning how to use my phone as a magnifying glass when I can’t read the fine print.

And yet, there are things I can do to help! I can start weight training to develop strength to support my core and prevent injury. I can practice yoga to help with flexibility and restore balance. I can drink enough water and eat healthy foods to fuel my body! Whoo!

Except….I don’t do any of that. I rush off after a run before stretching. I don’t eat when I’m “supposed to”, I sit at my desk instead of practicing yoga and I’ve never been great at weight training.  I am REALLY good at making excuses though! “This is more important…I don’t have time right now…I’ll get to it later”…and now, because I’m better at making excuses than I am taking care of myself, I’m benched…”pfft..”

There is hope though. In my ongoing search for knowledge and learning, there is a lesson here to be learned. Having an injury gives me a chance to reassess. In addition to overtraining, I’ve also over committed, limiting the amount of time I have to take care of myself. Learning how to balance all the things I want to do with all the things I need to do is an ongoing project.

Taking time off has helped me regain my appreciation of running. Training for a marathon and a half ironman back-to-back became more like a job and less like something that gives me peace. After six weeks, five days and sixteen hours of not running, I finally feel like getting back out there! Even if I can’t quite yet… I’ve also gained a better appreciation for my running buddies. Anyone that’s run long before knows the value of a good running conversation and I miss them!  

And although I’m bummed I’m not running with them, I’m really looking forward to being a good cheerleader to my teammates!

Wine Country Half Marathon and 10k kicks off a whole host of local events over the next several months! On October 29^th, the races will start at beautiful CaliPaso Winery and run through wineries and nearby horse ranches in Paso Robles. Wine Country Runs is a non-profit organization that supports local charities and sports organizations in North San Luis Obispo County. Templeton Run Club will be there to volunteer with Templeton Cross Country at mile 11 right before the hill! Come join us or sign up here to volunteer at the event!

After that the 26^th Annual City to the Sea Half Marathon and 5k will be on Sunday, November 12^th starting in downtown San Luis Obispo. This event is the main fundraiser for Cuesta College Cross Country and Track and Field programs and finishes at the spectacular Dinosaurs Caves Park in Pismo Beach.

Last but certainly not least, the Tierra Redonda Mountain Trail run will be held at the Smith Ranch on November 17^th-November 19^th. New to this year is a 5k run in addition to a 10k, 20k, 24 hour and 48 hour event! Camping is encouraged and free to all that want to come out. This event will benefit Templeton Run Club and help us continue to put on free fun runs, offer scholarships, and put on youth camps throughout the year!  Sign up here to volunteer for the weekend and keep an eye out on our Instagram page for a FREE bib giveaway!!

Because of events like this one and support from our sponsors, A-List Property, West Coast Auto and Towing, Movement for Life Physical Therapy, Fluid Nutrition, Morro Bay POA, Kman Cyclery Tenet Health Central Coast, and Hug a Mug in Paso Robles, TRC was able to help send three of our runners to the Level One RRCA Coaching certification program this summer! Congrats to our new RRCA TRC Coaches Tony Lopez, Susan McAdoo and Jen Seay on their hard earned and well deserved certification! We were also able to host our first Cross Country Camp with Templeton High School Cross Country and hope to build this into an annual event for all our North County Schools. 

And finally, while these events might not be local, you’ll also see some of our local runners and Sole Sisters at Revel Big Bear on November 18^th and CIM in Sacramento on December 3^rd. If you’re in the area, keep an eye out and cheer them on! All that training isn’t for the faint of heart!

Happy Running!

Rosalie Smith

rosaliesmith@templetonrunclub.com

PO BOX 522

Templeton, Ca, 93465

Well, I asked for it…hot summer weather is upon us. One of our horses created her own sprinkler yesterday splashing around in her trough and broke the float. I walked out to turn it off and a smell of “rain drops” hitting the warm, dry dirt made me (almost) look forward to cooler temps and wet weather.  It’s August and although summer is still in full swing, it’s almost time for the kids to go back to school. Now I’m wondering, where did the time go?

Just a few short months ago in June, we held our 2^nd annual Track and Field Camp. 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 GH Sports in SLO, who once again donated all the water bottles to our participants! We couldn’t have done it without ALL of YOU!

This month we are hosting a special pub run and Soles 4 Souls shoe drive with Barrelhouse Brewing on August 19^th at 8am. This FREE 5k Pub Run will be followed by a raffle with swag from Templeton Run Club, Barrelhouse Brewing and TWO $50 GIFT CARDS from GH SPORTS!  Bring a pair of gently worn shoes to donate to our Soles for Souls shoe drive and you’ll receive an extra raffle ticket!! Soles for Souls is a non-profit organization that collects new and used shoes and clothing to donate to people in need across the US and around the world. Give to a good cause AND clean out your closet – win, win! Runners and walkers of all ages are welcome. AND if you make a donation of $25 back to the club (so we can continue to host events like these and more), we’ll give you a fancy, schmancy run club hat!  Sign up online for free at Eventbright or RSVP on Strava!

Training is underway for the Wine Country Half Marathon on October 29th, the City to the Sea Half Marathon & 5k on November 12^th and the Tierra Redonda Mountain trail run on November 17^th-19^th with All We Do is Run. If you’re considering running these events and want some training buddies, come on down! (And if you want to join our team and haven’t signed up yet for City to the Sea, email me for a discount code!) We’re in the process of working on some team shirts to wear so we can rep the club and spot each other from literal miles away! 

Run club member and 29 time marathon finisher Susan McAdoo volunteered to write a story this month of one of her more challenging marathons. If you have a story to share, want to ramble about your love of running or a race experience you had, hit me up!  We want the good, bad and sometimes ugly! 

Happy summer running!

Rosalie Smith

rosaliesmith@templetonrunclub.com

Po Box 522

Templeton, Ca. 93465

Hills, Hills and more Hills!

by Susan McAdoo

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.

At this point, I had already completed well over 20 full marathons, so I would’ve considered myself a seasoned runner. I knew that this marathon would be a little different with dirt trails and a lot of climbing. I even heard that they had real food on the course, not just the typical GU and Gatorade. Let’s be honest, that’s probably the real reason why I signed up!  I had plenty of long training runs at Montana De Oro, East Cuesta and West Cuesta Grade so I felt like I was prepared. This was the 2^nd year Of Wild Cherry Canyon and I had been hearing some grumbling about the inaugural year prior but didn’t really give it that much thought because the 1^st year usually has logistical issues, planning, etc. 

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!

I got through this race and finished with my slowest marathon time, 5:34:59, a 13:00 min/mile pace. I climbed over 5500 ft that day and it was BRUTAL! Running is humbling, some days are easy and some days it feels hard.   I always say to myself that if you don’t have the hard runs you can’t appreciate the good ones! Wild Cherry Canyon Marathon will still go down as my hardest marathon to date. Happy Running!

Bring on the hundred-degree heat North County is known for! Hot wind, dry air and pavement that melts under your shoes.  I’m ready for it! My fingers are cold typing this as I look out the window at a dreary, overcast sky with sixty-degree temps, in June.  

High School track and field season is over, spring marathon training has passed, and our first local half ironman triathlon has come and gone. A few days ago, my watch had the gall to tell me I was “de-training”!  I must admit, that while I love working towards big goals, I also love going out for a run or ride with no particular goal in mind.  There is no pressure. No worrying if it was enough. Only the enjoyment of getting outside (preferably when it’s warm and sunny!)

While track season may be over, we’re gearing up for our 2nd Annual Youth Track and Field camp with Templeton Rec next week. Our THS student coaches will show our incoming third, fourth, fifth and sixth graders the ropes on some of their favorite track and field events.  Athletes can come run, jump and throw with us on June 13^th, 15^th, 20^th and 22^nd at the Jack Allen Field at Templeton High School from 10am-12pm. Sign up at Templeton Rec Department online or email Melissa Johnson at mjohnson@templetoncsd.org

This camp will prep our youth athletes for the Atascadero All Comers Meets held on Wednesdays July 12^th, 19^th, and 26^th at the Atascadero Track. Registration is $5 a person and welcomes all ages. Sign up at the track the night you want to compete.  It was so fun watching our track camp kids compete last year and we’re looking forward to it again this year! Send me an email if you want to volunteer with us!

New to our team of sponsors this year is Fluid, K-man Cyclery and Movement for Life! Fluid is a local sports nutrition company that started in 2005 as a Cal Poly Senior Project by Richard Smith and David Brown. They have been fueling our runs for years now making sure we don’t cramp up on the go and keeping us well recovered with their post workout recovery drink mixes. (Talk to Tony about his recovery coffee!)

Kman Cyclery has been keeping central coast bikes tuned up since 1999 and ours more recently for triathlon training. Owners Keith Schmidt and his wife Robyn are not only local athletes and coaches but are a big part of putting on the Atascadero All Comers Meets and heavily involved in local running and cycling events.

Movement for Life Physical Therapy has not one, but ten locations on the Central Coast alone! One of our favorite run club runners, Jen Seay, is one of their physical therapists and a integral part of our TRC team. Movement for Life supports several local community organizations and it’s an honor to have them now supporting ours.

Back again for 2023 is our sponsor April Fehrer with A List Properties, Hug A Mug Coffee Shop in Paso Robles, Tenet Health Central Coast, and West Coast Auto and Towing! A huge THANK YOU to ALL of our sponsors! We are so lucky to have you on our team!

As I get older, I’ve come to realize the importance of utilizing different perspectives and styles when trying to make improvements (aka the importance of teamwork.) While it’s easier sometimes for me to work alone, I’ve found that working as a team makes us stronger. What I lack in leadership or direction, someone else can bring to the table or complement with their own strengths.

To grow Templeton Run Club and make it a community organization all runners enjoy and feel comfortable being a part of, I need help from you. You don’t need to be “fast,” you don’t need to be buff, and you don’t need to run marathons. In fact, I would love to find a leader that wants to start a Walker Wednesday group.  We’ll be looking for runners of all paces to lead group runs (yes, I’m looking at you 12 min/mile pace group) and for individuals that want to become more involved in helping with TRC social media, apparel, and events.  

Our next meeting will be on June 22^nd after the track workout at Barrelhouse Brewing. Please join us or send me an email if you are interested in helping!  We would love to have you!

As a reminder, the best way to find the most current information on Templeton Run Club group runs and events is on Strava and the Templeton Run Club Calendar on the website. Our run club days are Tuesday mornings, Thursday evenings, and Saturday mornings. Please RSVP to let us know you’re coming! (Sometimes it’ll inspire others to show up and sometimes we’ll cancel if it looks like no one is going.)

Last but not least, here is another another written contribution by one of our club members, Tony Lopez, on running with the club and his first Boston Marathon.  Please reach out if you would like to write for next months newsletter!!

Happy Running!

Rosalie Smith

rosaliesmith@templetonrunclub.com

Templeton Run Club

PO Box 522

Templeton, CA. 93465

Boston

by Tony Lopez

Long long ago, in a galaxy not too far away, I sat on a couch. Pleasantly plump, freshly married, and happy. My wonderful wife comes home from work one day and tells me about her co-worker wanting Kellie to join her in getting in shape doing Crossfit. Every day Kellie would come home telling me about the different exercises and equipment they would do and use. Eventually, her enthusiasm actually got me off the couch! I installed a pull-up bar. I made a plyo-box. I scoured the ads for Olympic weights. I was still mostly on the couch, but a good workout fascinated me…I could watch it for hours!

Months went by, and Kellie had switched to a different job. We had a semi-functional gym, and she continued Crossfit at home. I joined in sometimes, and so did the kids. One day she came home somewhat excited because one of her co-workers had given her a 13-week challenge. From couch to half-marathon! Only 13-weeks. I figured I was already on the couch, so I was halfway there!!!

I was not a complete stranger to running. Many years ago, I used to run a fair amount: During grade school with my dad, High School by myself, and College with my brother, Mike. I ran my share of 10k’s. 5 milers were the usual fare, and anything over six I would consider a long run. My longest race was a 10-miler. But I did mention that that was many years ago, right?

Now I am going to admit that I failed the challenge. Being the Neanderthal that I am, I went out and did too much too soon and started collecting my personal list of ailments: shin splints, stress fracture, and Plantar fasciitis. Not exactly the PRs that we brag about but a valuable lesson nonetheless.

Ultimately, I did complete my half-marathon, and with all the pain and injuries accumulated along the way, I had declared: Half-Marathon and no more! Any thoughts of ever doing a marathon were completely erased from my mind. Actually, I don’t think they were erased…they just had never even entered my mind. I was hooked on running, just nothing more than a Half.

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.

Moss Lane has always been my favorite route: dirt road, some hills, some cows, a tunnel of trees, and the occasional lone runner. But today was different. With a grunt, I passed someone coming from the opposite direction, with a nod and a wave a few more. Then a small group… Curiosity got the best of me, and I asked if they were part of a group, and I heard “Templeton Run Club. Look us up on meetup.com…”.

Soon thereafter, I joined TRC. We had our weekly long run on Saturday. Tuesday morning at the Park and often a Thursday run. We discussed our goals and desires to grow our little club and came up with the idea of training together for the City to the Sea Half marathon. Our fearless leader, Rosalie,  introduced a set of warm-up exercises that we perform every day before we run. It truly does help get your legs and arms going and ready before our runs, and I have been, for the most part, injury free ever since. Along with the warm-ups, we started Thursday track night, which challenges you to learn different paces for different events.

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.

Riding high on enthusiasm, we plotted our next group event: Mountains 2 Beach Marathon. Gulp. Yes, the word Half was dropped. Somehow I got convinced that I could run a marathon. Now I will say I have been very blessed to be part of TRC, with many years of Marathon experience under their collective belts. I pity the fool that tries to train for a marathon without it. We slowly increased our weekly mileage. We had our long runs. We had our track workouts. We had our beer. Oops, let’s just call that our strategic planning meetings. Week after week, we worked towards our goal. Mountains 2 Beach came, and I bonked! Blame it on starting too fast. Blame it on having Shingles. Blame it on the heat. Blame it on the beer. Blame it on chasing halter-top girls in the First Half…  I ran 18 miles at a great pace and then just died. My legs cramped up. I stopped, stretched, and proceeded over and over until finishing with a time of 3:50:48… I was crushed. I needed under 3:50 to qualify for Boston. I had just limped the last six miles for nothing. To add insult to injury, M2B people had messed up the route, so everyone ran half a mile more than they should have. Making it a totally depressing day for me.

Now 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.

Minus the beer, we pretty much duplicated our previous M2B training schedule, but I listened a little harder this time. Rosalie’s haunting voice echoed in my head: “Trust the taper…..trust the taper…”. Susan’s constant “Slow down, we should be running way slower than our race pace.”   We built our miles and then tapered.   After our very last taper run, as we headed to our cars, Susan said don’t forget your throw-away shoes… Forget them? I had no idea what she was talking about!   You see,  rain was in the forecast for Boston, and with that, you have a whole different level of preparedness. Basically, wear throw-away shoes, socks, a sweater, a rain poncho, foot cream, and toilet paper. Bring real shoes and socks in a plastic bag and have a spare trash bag to sit on. Imagine that. I had been running hundreds of miles with her nonstop, talking about everything under the sun, and she saved this information until the absolute last run!

Boston. Birthplace of our nation. A little tea party 250 years ago started this town on a long road to our Independence. Many good ideas have come from this Eastern seaboard town, such as Independence, Marathons, and beer, but we are here to talk about the Marathon, so I’ll keep the beer to myself. Boston is home to the world’s oldest annual Marathon, so along with 30,000 of my closest friends, we get to trek 26.2 miles from the town of Hopkinton to downtown Boston, but how that happens is left for us newbies to discover.

The logistics that are involved in managing 30,000 runners are quite overwhelming. The Commons is the downtown park where everyone congregates mid-morning before the race. Here we are filtered into waves of runners based on our bib colors and loaded onto a series of buses that take us to the start line. Simple enough until you realize at 100 people per bus, that’s about 300 bus loads! Losing somebody in those crowds is super easy, but apparently, some have mystical powers of re-appearing unexpectedly, as I would be happy to tell you about over a beer or two.  

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!  

As with any race, you have to jostle for position hoping for the crowd to thin out enough to run free. Well, that never really happened, but you get used to it, and that was part of the charm of this race because accompanying the myriad of runners was an endless sea of crowds lining the course. There were parts of the race where the crowds were so loud, cheering, screaming, and howling that you couldn’t even hear the runners next to you. You were engulfed in this hysteria that makes you forget any little pain you might have felt. The flood of emotions moves you. I might have given out my share of high fives along the way, but I did skip the kissing section.  

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!

I write all of this,  reflecting back to the beginning:  me on the couch. Yes, I am still happy and sipping that beer, but I have traveled a long journey from that couch to this one, but now  I do see a future that includes Chicago, New York, and Boston… but I also look forward to many long runs with my buddies and friends in The Templeton Run Club!