A Run In The Park With Sir Isaac

This morning in New York City was one of those autumn days when the crisp air bites just enough to make you feel invigorated. It is the part of the year where the city seems somehow washed clean of the humid grit and grime that the summer brings.

So, it was an incredible canvas upon which to join the team from Newton Running for a clinic and group run in that stalwart of nature stuck squarely in the middle of the city, Central Park. We all met at The Boathouse at about 7 o’clock AM amidst runners getting in their last taper runs before the 40th running of the New York City Marathon on Sunday.

Once the group of about fifteen runners had assembled, Danny (Abshire, co-founder and Chief Technical Officer of Newton Running) bid us all good morning and went on to, first and foremost, discuss exactly what “natural running” is. Among the assembled members of the Newton team were Jennifer Abshire (Danny’s wife), Erin Gehlsen, Pam Simich and Josh Cox (American Record holder in the 50K and super nice guy!).This was followed by a quick demonstration by Danny of proper form and technique. It still strikes me how everything he says is not some huge secret, but is quite simply common sense.

After Danny’s introduction we all set out for a quick three mile run around the bridle path that encircles The Reservoir. I have discovered, twice now, that The Boathouse is a fantastic meeting place, however upon leaving The Boathouse and heading North along East Drive, you immediately come upon what has come to be known to many a runner as the bane of their existence; Cat Hill. Today however, with a group of new friends and runners, the Cat was tamed without a problem. We then entered the bridle path loop at about East 85th Street. Now, when I spoke earlier about the time of year, I neglected to mention the brilliant colors the abound in Central Park. Entering the bridle path was like entering another world. We were surrounded by the brightly colored tree canopy as we all ran effortlessly through the park. The other runners on the path, including the occasional professional who came flying by, made the air ring with fresh excitement. Danny, Jennifer and Josh (the Newton crew accompanying us on the run) were so wonderful, and took the time to speak to everyone in the group, discussing everything from technique to the weather to Broadway shows! The wellspring of running knowledge was unparalleled and the kindness and caring with which it was dispensed was overwhelming.

As we wound our way through the trees and back to The Boathouse, it was the perfect end to a wonderful run. There were lessons learned, friends made and a good run had by all. Among those that came was Ty Garner. Ty was at the Newton clinic in the spring and also became and Ironman in Wisconsin with me in September. The next time Newton does a clinic and group run in your area, I cannot encourage you enough to go. It’s an awesome experience!