I just returned home from spending a week at the Craftsbury Outdoor Center in Craftsbury, Vermont which was probably one of the most awesome experiences of my adult life. My primary objective for attending the camp was to gain the confidence and learn the skills that I will need to master to help me prepare to run my first full marathon (Philadelphia) in November. I can unequivocally say that my objectives were accomplished! To spend a week with Lynn Jennings, Olympic and World Champion, and coaches Gregg Wenneborg, Brett Ely and Bobby Asher and 12 other campers who had varying degrees of marathon running experience, was the highlight of my running life thus far. Lynn and the coaches did a fantastic job of putting together a diverse program that included running, biking, hiking, swimming, circuit training, yoga, hills, fartleks, intervals, drills and even a mini-relay race! There were presentations on nutrition, running form and training strategies that were all highly informative and interactive. The highlight of the week (Wednesday) was Endurathon Day which started with a 10 mile bike ride from Craftsbury to Irasburg, Vermont. This was followed by an approximate 4-mile hike up and down Mt. Pisgah which provided outstanding views of Lake Willoughby. After hiking, we ran approximately 6 miles to Lake Willoughby where we were able to relax in the cool waters and enjoy a picnic lunch. Following lunch, it was back on our bikes to travel 10-miles from Irasburg back to Craftsbury. A day of endurance, indeed!
"Down" time is also included in the program. On Thursday morning, after an early 5-mile run to the Craftsbury Common, I was able to drive over to Burlington and visit some of my old stomping grounds when I taught at the University of Vermont. I was able to walk through the halls of the Rowell Building and peek into the laboratory where I used to teach Clinical Microbiology in the Medical Technology program at UVM from 1981-1986. After my campus tour, I moved on to downtown Burlington and its waterfront, where I had a very nice lunch at Splash, overlooking the beauty of Lake Champlain and the commanding landscape of the Adirondacks in its background. It was a gorgeous summer day so I also included a walk up and down the Church Street Marketplace in Burlington which was bustling with visitors and natives who were relishing in the sun and warmth which has a very short season in these parts of the states.
So, now I am home and have a full day to reflect on what I learned over the past week before I return to the rigors of work back at the office. I know camp was successful because this morning at 6:30am, I headed out my door, just as if I was at camp, and went for a 5.45 mile run…. and, it felt great!! I mentioned to Lynn before I left camp that I felt like I was getting stronger each day and I continue to feel strong physically and mentally to meet this challenge that I've set for myself – complete my first full marathon this fall in Philadelphia.
I don't think I can find the right words to thank Lynn, Gregg, Brett and Bobby other than to say "You guys are the best at what you do – great job!"
And, to my fellow campers: Mike, Dave, Nick, Perry, Dave, Fred, Anthony, Michael, Susan, Danielle, Nancy and Sandy – it was a pleasure to spend a week with you and good luck with your running adventures. And, always be on the lookout because you just never know when you may be 'Charbonneau'd!!'
Cheers Folks!
John
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