Deer Dash

Deer Dash . . . coming soon.

If you were to start training now, with about eight weeks to go, would you be ready to run the Deer Dash in November?

Sometime during the late 70s or early 80s, my parents began to jog—better known as running today. For my parents, it was a movement that became routine and a trend that grew into habit.

When I was in my teens, I remember my Dad asking me time after time to join him on a “jog.” Most times my answer, with disgust, was “no thanks.” One day, however, I said “yes.” I’m not sure if it was to get him off my back, or to satisfy a curiosity. Either way, his persistence worked.

I can remember the afternoon that I ventured out with my Dad on a jog. I have no idea how long I went, how it felt or how long it was before my next jog. I do know, however, that after that day I was changed. Some 30 years later, I am still running. Thanks Dad.

If you have a curiosity about running; or if you are intrigued about why runners do what they do, you are ready for the Deer Dash. Get on your running shoes, and walk out the door.

If you are a new runner, consult your doctor first. If you are physically ready, then start walking. Set a goal during your walk and try to run to the nearest stop sign or telephone pole, then stop and walk again when your breathing gets labored. Try this several times during your run to increase endurance and speed. It won’t be long, and you will be running for more minutes than you are walking.

Try to walk/run for at least 30 minutes, five days a week for the first 2-3 weeks. After that, and for the next 4-5 weeks, add about 5 minutes to your routine so that you are walk/running about 35 minutes, 5 days a week. By weeks 6 and 7 you should be up to walk/running for 40-45 minutes, 5 days a week.

At that pace, you will be ready to walk/run the Deer Dash in November. It may take a beginner 40-45 minutes to complete the deer dash but the feeling of accomplishment will last forever.