I figured since I have a day off I would go ahead and make up for 5 weeks of inadequacy by posting twice, maybe even more, today. So, I thought it might be time to give notice of some distressing issues going on in these parts. As a side effect of increased runner traffic, Edmond has decided to enforce ticketing of runners who don't stay on the sidewalk. I, myself, was stopped last spring on a run heading east on Lindsey, not more than a 1/4 mile from where the sidewalk ends on a section of street that has been widened to four lanes, but with no shoulders added. I would imagine it is but a matter of time before we see much the same tactic used in Norman. Now, while I'm not totally a fan of running on sidewalks in general, I can understand the need to underscore the importance of runner safety in the darker months. However, there seems to be little building code or consistency with creating sidewalks or lighting. Seeing as it is now dark as soon as one is getting off work, people are probably going to gravitate towards safer, surer footing, lights, etc. I have a huge issue is people cannot feasibly run. The problem is obviously a lack of venues conducive to running. This has been mine and others complaints for a long time and an obvious problem with throwing up bike route signs or not following through on completion of outdoor venues and the like that would cater to those parties interested. I think polling of citizens to ask what they need is in order and oversight of how these places are managed. It has also shocked me that we don't do a better job of implementing facilities that obviously work in other cities and as a result are clearly a bright spot of the area and a boon to society.
I'm spreading the gospel in a few other forums. Firstly, I'm going to be remarking to the appeal of Okie fitness advocates, hopefully including crossfitters, at okathletes.com . Additionally, I'm keeping a training log at Fast Running Blog , where there are a few other Oklahomans, namely Jason Butler and Jake Buhler along with some other salty characters. I needed somewhere to tally the training miles so right now it will be this place, although I'm well aware there are probably better online training logs. I'm back to logging some miles, feeling fitter and having good company from Asher, I think his secret is recovering well, utilizing the most comfortable places to sleep and plenty of strides chasing squirrels.
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