Sunday, October 27, 9:15 a.m.
This Sunday, October 13 at 9:15 a.m, meet at Muscoot Farm (http://goo.gl/maps/dTDiT) for the Run the Farm 5 Mile Trail Race. This 5 mile course starts from the farm and follows the outlying trails around Muscoot. You can download a map of the five-mile course here.
8:30 Kids’ Race 18:45 Kids’ Race 2
9:15 5 Mile Race
For more information, visit RunTheFarm.org.
Next week we have a very special event you won’t want to miss. More on that to come.
Sunday, October 20, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, October 20 at 8:00 a.m, meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Trailside Museum when we run the 7 mile Museum to Blue route. This course will start down the orange trail and wind past Raven Rocks before heading back via the blue trail and Kimberly Bridge. This time of year, the view from Raven Rocks and the beautiful blue trail will be particularly nice.
click for map page
Saturday, October 19, 8:00 a.m.
This Saturday, October 19 at 8:00 a.m, meet at the Muscoot Farm parking lot (http://goo.gl/maps/dTDiT) for a course check of the Run the Farm loop. This 5 mile course will start from the parking lot at 8:00 and follow the Run the Farm loop with the exception of finishing in the parking lot. If you’re signed up for the race, you’ll want to come to this last course check and test out the trail. You can download a map of the five-mile course here. Just please stay off of any farm equipment and park on the side of the lot away from the farm.
We’ll be back at Muscoot again next week for the Run The Farm race.
Sunday, October 13, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, October 13 at 8:00 a.m, meet at the Muscoot Farm parking lot (http://goo.gl/maps/dTDiT) for a course check of the Run the Farm loop. This 5 mile course will start from the parking lot at 8:00 and follow the Run the Farm loop with the exception of finishing in the parking lot. If you’re signed up for the race, you’ll want to come to one of the course checks and test out the trail. You can download a map of the five-mile course here.
We’ll be back at Muscoot again next week for the last course check before race day.
Sunday, October 6, 8:00 a.m. New Meeting Location: Trailside Museum
This Sunday, meet at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Trailside Museum Lot when we run the Meadow Dry Loop. This approximately six-mile course follows much of the Leatherman’s Loop but nixes the water crossings and mud flats. What’s left? Still a challenging and fun run on what will be one of the most colorful days of the year.
For those who are running Paine to Pain, good luck to all of you. If you’d like to car pool, meet at the Lewisboro Town Park lower parking lot at 7:00 and the 684 exit 4 park and ride at 7:15. We’ll see you again next week at Muscoot Farm for one of two course checks of the Run the Farm course.
Sunday, September 29, 8:30 a.m. (kids’ race), 9:15 a.m. (adult race)
This Sunday, meet at Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem, New York 10560), when we race the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. All that training and those course checks come down to this—a 10k trail race featuring a challenging course that includes the highest peak in Westchester—Bailey Mountain—and beautiful views of Lookout Point and Hemlock Lake. The weather all week will be beautiful and the conditions on Sunday, ideal. Registration closes at midnight on Thursday night but we’ll hold a few places open if you want to bring a friend at the last minute. On-site registration will be $40 and we ask that you have exact change.
Next week we’ll be back at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation in the Meadow parking lot to run the Dry Loop—that is, if you’re not going to be running Paine to Pain.
Hope to see you out there for this first annual Sarah Bishop Bushwhack.
Sunday, September 22, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, meet at Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem, New York 10560), when we do a course check of the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. This 10k trail race features a challenging course that includes the highest peak in Westchester—Bailey Mountain—and beautiful views of Lookout Point and Hemlock Lake. If the upper gate is open, park where indicated on the map—in the lot near the pool, accessible by an unpaved road across from Hemlock Lake. If the upper gate is closed, park near the lot at the trailhead to Lookout Point.
Next week we’ll be back at Mountain Lakes Park the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack Race. It’s going to be a lot of fun.
Sunday, September 15, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, meet at Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem, New York 10560), when we do a course check of the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. This 10k trail race features a challenging course that includes the highest peak in Westchester—Bailey Mountain—and beautiful views of Lookout Point and Hemlock Lake. If the upper gate is open, park where indicated on the map—in the lot near the pool, accessible by an unpaved road across from Hemlock Lake. If the upper gate is closed, park near the lot at the trailhead to Lookout Point.
Next week we’ll be back at Mountain Lakes Park for our final course check before the event.
Sunday, September 8, 8:00 a.m. This Sunday, meet at Westmoreland Sanctuary when we run 5.2 Mile Westmoreland Perimeter Loop. It’s been a while since we ran this course that was hit hard last year by Sandy but I’ve been assured that the trails are runnable and in good shape. I won’t have the chance to mark the trail in advance so bring a map and keep your eyes open for trail markers along the way. Those wanting a longer run can run part or all of the trail again or cross the road to Butler Sanctuary and add another 3.5 miles following the perimeter trails (see trail map). See Google Map ››
Saturday, September 7, 8:00 a.m. This Saturday is the Katonah 5k Road and Trail Race. While a 5k might be a shorter distance than you’re used to, Christy’s first-place finish last week proved that shorter races have a place in anyone’s training schedule. And besides, it’s a great event benefitting a great cause. Learn more at Raceit.com.
Sunday, September 1, 8:00 a.m. This Sunday, meet at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking Lot when we run the Meadow to Overlook loop. This is the same route we ran on July 4th and includes a finish at the river. We’ll start from the Meadow lot and pass the Trailside Museum before heading into the southern portion of the reservation and returning via Schoolhouse Road. At the end of the run, you have the option of cooling off by crossing the stream instead of heading over the bridge. Depending on the heat, it might be a refreshing change. I’ll also drop a cooler of water at Michigan Road which is the halfway point of the run.
Saturday, August 31, 8:00 a.m. We’ll be doing a bit of trail cleanup for the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. Anyone interested in giving us a hand while running between stops, meet at the parking lot at the trailhead to Lookout Point at 8:00 a.m.
If you’re up for a faster Saturday run, meet at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking Lot to run the Meadow, Michigan and Museum loop. I’d suggest turning left at intersection 46, though, to keep in the shade of the pine forest near the end.
Monday, September 2, 9:30 a.m.
St. John’s Episcopal Parish is proud to bring you the 3rd Annual South Salem Church Tavern Biathlon. Race director Brian Stempel, a Sunday Runs regular, makes sure everyone has a great time and the after-race barbeque is not to be missed. The majority of the funds generated from the race will go to same worthy charities we continue to support (The Carpenter’s Kids Program, Community Center of Northern Westchester, and The Wounded Warrior Project). – See more and register ››
I’m still deciding on next week’s venue. Any suggestions?
Sunday, August 25, 8:00 a.m.
Let’s change things up thus Sunday at a different venue. Meet at the Muscoot Farm parking lot for a run of the Run the Farm 5 mile course. Even though there are a couple months before that race, it’s always a great trail. Those who want a longer run can go back out for a second full or partial loop. You can see a map of the five-mile course here.
Saturday, August 24, 8:00 a.m.
Anyone interested in a Saturday run can meet at the pool parking lot in Mountain Lakes Parkand follow the 10K Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. We’ll be doing some Sunday Runs on the course before race day so if you miss this, you’ll still have a chance to run before the race. You can see a map of the course here.
Next week we’ll be back in the Reservation at the Meadow parking lot to run the Meadow to Overlook course.
Sunday, August 18, 8:00 a.m. This Sunday we’ll switch things up a bit and run a longer distance to prepare for the Paine to Pain race in the fall. Meet at the trailhead for the Leatherstocking trail in New Rochelle (Google map: 2 Hillside Crescent, New Rochelle, NY). We’ll follow the Paine to Pain map through Saxon Woods, by the Hutch, and return via Mill Road/North Ave. for a 10 mile loop. If you’d like to do the full loop, you can continue on the full 13.1 mile course back to the starting point. Limited on-street parking is available on Hillside Crescent. If that is full, park on Lyncroft Road (around house number 312) and follow the course map to the trailhead.
Those who want to car pool from Lewisboro and Ridgefield can meet at the town park at 7:20. Those coming from other points can meet at the Park and Ride, exit 4 on 684, at 7:35. That should give everyone enough time to get to the trail for an 8:00 start.
Saturday, August 17, 8:00 a.m.
Meet at the Trailside Museum, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, and run the Museum to Raven Rocks 6 mile loop. This is the trail that heads over Fox Hill initially which will certainly get your attention. After that, the course becomes somewhat more forgiving and ends on the beautiful downslope of the orange trail.
Sunday, August 11, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Michigan Road lot when we run a new course—the Green Rock Trail. We’ll start out on the beautiful (and relatively easy) Green trail then transition to the rock trail at the southern portion of the park. We’ll be going down the “stairs” this time which means we’ll have to climb up to Raven Rocks before returning via the Yellow trail. It’s a 6.5 mile mixed bag of wide trails and single path, level ground and hills. Should be a lot of fun. See the map page ›› | Download the PDF ››
Saturday, August 10, 8:00 a.m.
For those interested in a Saturday run, meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Michigan Road lot to run the Michigan to Kimberly Bridge course. It’s always a favorite that we’ll be running soon on a future Sunday.
The Sarah Bishop Bushwhack is a challenging 10k trail race held in Mountain Lakes Park, Westchester, New York, and benefitting educational wellness programs in area schools. The scenic course is named in honor of the hermitess of West Mountain, who lived alone for more than two decades around the turn of the 19th century in a small cave beneath an outcropping of rock on the eastern slope of the hill.
On September 29, 2013, we honor her indomitable spirit and oneness with nature with the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack and Sarah’s Scramble 1.5 mile kids’ race which takes runners on paths near her cave in the wooded Mountain Lakes Park, a 1,082-acre forested landscape with five lakes, spectacular views, and a few hills in between. Learn more about the race ››
Race Day Parking at Ridgebury School
Start /Finish: Lake Windwing
South Shore Drive, Ridgefield, Connecticut
Run Course: 4-mile run through Ridgefield trails; moderately hilly; timed, posted results
Still have questions? Please contact us anytime! We look forward to hearing from you.
Sunday, August 4, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Trailside Museum when we run a new course—the Museum to Blue 7 miler. While this run is a little longer than most, it doesn’t go over the Fire Tower, up the Overlook, or over Fox Hill. What’s left? Some gorgeous trails like Orange and Blue with some hills in the southern portion of the park. Halfway through, you can pause to enjoy the view from Raven Rocks—always a treat. See the map page ›› | Download the PDF ››
Saturday, August 3, 8:00 a.m.
For those interested in a Saturday run, meet at the Meadow parking lot to run the Meadow, Michigan & Museum course. Your choice whether you want to finish through the meadow or over the river. Both options are available.
Sunday, July 28, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, meet at Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem, New York 10560), when we do a course check of the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. This 10k trail race features a challenging course that includes the highest peak in Westchester—Bailey Mountain—and beautiful views of Lookout Point and Hemlock Lake. Park where indicated on the map—in the lot near the pool, accessible by an unpaved road across from Hemlock Lake.
Saturday, July 27, 8:00 a.m.
We’ll be running a course check for Sunday’s course check. Meet at Mountain Lakes park for a run of the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack 10k trail race. Bike up and get even more of a workout (see below).
Saturday, July 27, 7:00 a.m.
Thinking about doing the Church Tavern Biathlon? Bring your bike and meet at the South Salem commuter lot on Spring Street on Saturday at 7:00 a.m. and we’ll ride most of the 7 mile cycle course before heading up to Mountain Lakes Park for the Sarah Bishop course check. Total distance one way is 8.5 miles but there are some, er, hills. More information about the biathlon ›› | Registration for the race is now open ››
Next week we’ll be back at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, Trailside Museum, when we run a variation of the Museum to Blue Route.
The races will be held Sunday, Oct 27, 2013 with kids races starting at 8:30am. The kids races will be divided into two completely separate events – a 1.1 mile run for kids 7-12 and a 0.6 mile trail run for kids age 6 and under.Both kids events will be completed before the 5 miler is started at 9:15am.See race website for more details and logistics information.
We are happy to bring this event back for its fourth year. Runners love the scenic and tough 5 mile course. Kids are challenged with a great taste of the trails at Muscoot Farm in their very own races. The farmers at the market love the energy (and the business!) that the race brings out that crisp October Sunday morning.
One of the Sunday Runners, Brian Stempel, is race director for The Church Tavern Biathlon hosted by St. John’s Church in South Salem, NY, (a stone’s throw from The Leatherman’s Loop and Sarah Bishop Bushwhack trail races). While not a trail race, it’s still a fun event and Brian makes sure everyone has a great time.
From the registration page: On Monday September 2, 2013 (Labor Day) St. John’s Episcopal Parish will be hosting the third annual South Salem ‘Church Tavern’ Biathlon. Race start time is 9:30 a.m. and will proceed rain or shine. The Biathlon consists of a 7 mile bike and a 4 mile run. One of the main features of both courses is a steep trip up Church Tavern Road. Registration is now open ››
Did you know? Church Tavern was named after St. John’s Church because the church functioned as a tavern for part of it’s life in the late 1700’s.
A rolling, scenic 3.1 mile run through the charming hamlet of Katonah and the trails of Katonah Memorial Park, followed by a kids’ one-miler and tots’ races. Free race shirt to first 125 registrants.
Street and school parking is limited. Take the complimentary Enterprise shuttle from Commuter Lot 3 at Woods Bridge Road (Rt.117), just a few hundred feet south of Rt.35 (Exit 6 off I684).
The Kids’ One Miler is suggested for ages 7-12. The Tots’ Races are recommended for ages 3-6. Goodie bags to first 100 registered kids. The age categories are not strict. If your 7-year old will be happier running a Tots’ Race, feel free to register her for that instead. Please enter accurate DOB for your child.
Sunday, July 21, 8:00 a.m. This Sunday, meet at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking Lot when we run the Meadow to Overlook loop. This is the same route we ran on July 4th and includes a finish at the river. We’ll start from the Meadow lot and pass the Trailside Museum before heading into the southern portion of the reservation and returning via Schoolhouse Road. At the end of the run, you have the option of cooling off by crossing the stream instead of heading over the bridge. Depending on the heat, it might be a refreshing change. I’ll also drop a cooler of water at Michigan Road which is the halfway point of the run.
Saturday, July 20, 8:00 a.m. If you’re up for a Saturday run, meet at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking Lot to run the Meadow, Michigan and Museum loop. I’d suggest turning left at intersection 46, though, to keep in the shade of the pine forest near the end.
Next Sunday we’ll be at Mountain Lakes Park for a course check of the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. I hope to see you out there.
Sunday, July 14, 8:00 a.m.—Meet at Kimberly Bridge
This Sunday, meet at Kimberly Bridge to run the Trailside to Tower run. We’ll go against the arrows on the map and start up the Blue trail on Fire Tower hill before making our way to the Trailside Museum and Deer Hollow. Should be fun. See the map here ››
Saturday, July 13, 8:00 a.m.
Anyone interested in a Saturday run can meet at Mountain Lakes park for the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. We’re still fine-tuning the course but this time, go past our usual meeting place (the trailhead to Lookout Point) and turn left at the next road. Follow that past the lake and take the fork to the left. That will lead to our parking place near the pool.
Next week we’ll be meeting at the Meadow Lot. Hope to see you out there.
Sunday, July 7, 8:00 a.m.
Meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Michigan Road lot when we run a new course devised by Eleanor Heppner Hershey and aptly named Eleanor’s Escape. This route combines the best of the Yellow, Red, Blue, and Green trails and includes wide-open paths and single-track hills. Optional photo op at Raven Rocks before heading back by way of Red and Green. I know you’re going to love this one. See Eleanor’s Escape map here ››
Saturday, July 6, 8:00 a.m.
Anyone interested in a Saturday run can meet at Mountain Lakes park for the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. We’re still fine-tuning the course but this time, go past our usual meeting place (the trailhead to Lookout Point) and turn left at the next road. Follow that past the lake and take the fork to the left. That will lead to our parking place near the pool.
Thursday, July 4, 8:00 a.m. Join us for a special July 4 run at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation when we run a new route—the Meadow to Overlook loop. We’ll start from the Meadow lot and pass the Trailside Museum before heading into the southern portion of the reservation before returning via Schoolhouse Road. At the end of the run, you have the option of cooling off by crossing the stream instead of heading over the bridge. Depending on the heat, it might be a refreshing change.
Join us on Sunday, June 30, at 4:00 p.m. (rain date July 7) at Westmoreland Sanctuary for our Start-of-Summer Picnic Potluck. Come out and see your friends dressed in “real” clothes in this beautiful wooded preserve. The Sunday Runs gang celebrates summer with a party that does not involve running, but by no means will we stay still. Hike the trails, relax with the group, and have a great time with friends. Kids, friends, significant others are all welcome.
Sunday, June 30, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking Lot when we run one of our all-time favorite courses—the Fire Tower course. This 10k run takes us down the rocky scramble that’s the yellow trail then up the back side of Fire Tower hill before returning back to the meadow. It’s the perfect run to whet your appetite for the Summer Runs Sunday Pot Luck later in the day.
Don’t forget to to RSVP for our Sunday Runs Pot Luck on June 30 at 4:00 at Westmoreland. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone in “real” clothes for a change. The RSVP form lets you know what we need but if you have any questions, you can let me know or contact Annie Bai, our de facto social director (thanks Annie).
Saturday, June 29, 8:00 a.m.
Anyone interested in a Saturday run can meet at the Meadow Parking Lot for the Meadow, Michigan, and Museum loop. It’s hilly, but it’s fun.
Sunday, June 23, 8:00 a.m.
Let’s change things up thus Sunday at a different venue. Meet at the Muscoot Farm parking lot for a run of the Run the Farm 5 mile course. Even though there are months before that race, it’s always a great trail. Those who want a longer run can go back out for a second full or partial loop. You can see a map of the five-mile course here.
Saturday, June 22, 8:00 a.m.
Anyone interested in a Saturday run can meet at the trail head to Lookout Point in Mountain Lakes Parkand follow the 5.2 mile “Sarah Bishop” course around the park. While this most likely won’t be the final course map for the September 29th event, it certainly is a good preview. You can see a map of the course here.
Don’t forget to to RSVP for our Sunday Runs Pot Luck on June 30 at 4:00 at Westmoreland. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone in “real” clothes for a change. Next week we’ll be back at the Ward Pound Ridge reservation Meadow Lot for a run of the Fire Tower loop.
Sunday, June 16, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, we commemorate the one-year anniversary of Rob’s downfall and rise again with this classic run named in his honor—Rob’s Ruin Run. Six miles of trails in the southern portion of the park that take us past the overlook, Bear Rock and Dancing Rock. I’ve posted a new variation of this run that is true to the original plan including the trail egress near the lean-to campsite on Michigan road. .
Saturday, June 15, 8:00 a.m.
While I know it’s only been a few weeks since we last ran the Rock Trail, it’s too fun to miss. If you’re up for a Saturday run, meet at the Michigan Road lot for the 5.5 mile Rock Trail Loop.
Next week, let’s mix things up a bit and head over to Muscoot Farm and check out the 5-mile Run The Farm loop. That’s always fun.
Sunday, June 9, 8:00 a.m. Meet at the Michigan Road parking lot in the Pound Ridge Reservation for a very special run. Tony Godino and Dave Cope, two of the founders of the Leatherman’s Loop, are going to send us on an unmapped trail run in the southern portions of the park, reviving trails that were used many years ago but that we’ve not run. They’ll be marking the trail in advance but we won’t have any maps of the course so our fate is completely in their hands. It should be a lot of fun—you won’t want to miss it.
Saturday, June 8, 8:00 a.m. Meet at the Michigan Road parking lot in the Pound Ridge Reservation for the Michigan to Kimberly 6 mile loop. This is always a fun run and you can choose whether you want to run it clockwise or counterclockwise. The clockwise course puts the steep hill in the center of the run. Counterclockwise lets you save the worst until the end. It’s your call.
Next week we’ll be back at the Michigan road lot again when we follow Rob’s Ruin Run and commemorate the one-year anniversary of Rob’s fall and subsequent return.
Sunday, June 2, 8:00 a.m.
Meet at the Trailside Museum in the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation for the Trailside to Tower 5.8 mile loop. This will come as no surprise that this is a hilly course so get ready for a good workout. While the course starts out at a steady climb, the hills really kick in before miles 2.5 and 4 which makes the rest of the run seem like a walk in the park.
Also on this Sunday is the Running Goddess 5k Race at Lasdon Park. I’ll be helping out there so if you’re at the reservation, bring your own maps.
Saturday, June 1, 8:00 a.m.
Meet at the Trailside Museum for the Museum to Raven Rocks 5.2 mile loop. This is one of my favorite runs which starts out fairly steep and ends on the Orange trail in a gradual down slope.
Next week we’ll be running a very special no-maps course created by Tony Godino and Dave Cope, two of the founders of the Leatherman’s Loop. You won’t want to miss this run.
Sunday, May 26, 8:00 a.m.
Meet at the Meadow Parking Lot when we run a beautiful course that mixes up a little bit of everything—the Meadow to Blue route. It starts out relatively flat with only a gradual incline then at mile 3.5, hello, we switch to single-track pretty steep uphill before tapering back down. It’s a fun course I’ve been wanting to schedule for a while.
Saturday, May 25, 8:00 a.m.
If you’re interested in this Saturday run, meet at the Meadow Lot for the Meadow, Michigan and Museum loop.
Next week we’ll be meeting at the Trailside Museum.
Congratulations to all of the Sunday Runners that competed in A Mild Sprain this past Sunday. It was great to see so many familiar faces and Dave Vogel really knows how to put on an event—thanks Dave. Big shout-outs to Christy Leggiero and Eleanor Hershey for finishing second and third overall in the women’s division and Tony Godino and I managed to finish first in our respective age groups. Lots of other great performances from the group as well and you can see the final results posted on the Mild Sprain site. It was a great showing for the Sunday Runners and a great cause to run for.
This Sunday, May 19, at 8:00, meet at the Lewisboro Town Park upper parking lot when we run the Town to Michigan 6.8 mile loop. We’ll be running this loop in a clockwise direction which passes the trailside museum, Michigan Road and the Meadow before returning home. As I recall, the last time we ran this there was about a foot of snow on the ground. Fortunately, that’s not likely to happen again. I’ll be at A Mild Sprain so bring your own maps.
Sunday is alsoA Mild Sprain trail race at Sprain Ridge Park. If you’re interested in car pooling, for those in Connecticut and Northern Westchester, meet at the Lewisboro Town Park lower parking lot at 8:00. For those farther south, meet at the 684 exit 4 park and ride at 8:20. Sign in is from 8:30 to 9:30 so that should give us plenty of time. Let me know if you’re interested.
Saturday, May 18, 8:00 a.m.
Anyone interested in an additional run can meet on Saturday at the town park for the Town to Trailside 5.7 mile loop.
Sunday, May 12, at 8:00 Meet at the Ward Pound Ridge reservation, Michigan Road Lot, when we run a new course—the Michigan, Red and Rock Trail. We’ll start at Michigan Road and take some of the wider paths to the Rock Trail where the course narrows and the hills begin. We’ll go up the stairs to Spy Rock then up more to the overlook before returning to Michigan Road on a nice downhill finish. Lots of hills on this great run. See the map page here ››
Saturday, May 11, 8:00 a.m.
If anyone is interested in an additional Saturday run, meet at Michigan Road for the Michigan to Kimberly 6 mile loop. Follow the path as marked in a clockwise loop including the uphill after Kimberly Bridge. Enjoy. Also, there will be another course check of A Mild Sprain if anyone is interested in checking out the course. If you are and want to car pool, be at the Lewisboro Town Park, lower lot, at 7:20.
Next week is A Mild Sprain at Sprain Ridge Park but for those looking for a run closer to home, meet at the Lewisboro Town Park for the Town to Michigan run.
This Sunday, May 5, at 8:00, is a course check of A Mild Sprain trail race at the Sprain Ridge Park in Yonkers. This 4.25 mile trail has lots of ups and downs, switchbacks and single-tracks. While “only” 4.25 miles, it’s challenging. And if you feel short-changed afterwards, you can go out for a couple extra miles on this scenic course.
Car Pool instructions: For those in South Salem, Waccabuc, Ridgefield area: meet at the Lewisboro Town Park LOWER PARKING LOT at 7:20. For those in Mt. Kisco, Katonah, Brewster, meet at the park and ride, exit 4 on Rt. 684 at 7:35. Coordinate with me if you’re interested.
If you’d prefer to stay a little closer to home, then I suggest meet at the Meadow Parking lot for the “Meadow, Michigan & Museum” 6.15 mile run. I’ll be at Sprain Ridge so bring your own maps.
Next week we’ll be at the reservation running on some of the southern trails. For those who are interested in a Saturday run, I’ll be recommending runs for Saturdays as well through the summer starting next week.
On Sunday, April 28 at 8:00 a.m., meet at Mountain Lakes Park for a 5+ mile run in some of the highest points in Westchester. We’ll have great views from Lookout Point within the first mile and go to the top of Bailey Mountain, elevation 982 feet, the highest point in Westchester. Mark as redesigned the course since we ran it in January so it should be easier to follow. The main gate to the park will be open and there is some parking at the trail head where we’ll start. Additional parking should be available farther into the park at the dumpsters. View map page here ››
Next Sunday, May 5, is a course check for A Mild Sprain trail race in Sprain Ridge Park in Yonkers. Even if you’re not signed up for the race, it’s a great trail and an opportunity to run someplace new. On Sunday, we can discuss to see who’s interested and plan on car pooling.
The following week, May 12, is Mother’s Day. As such, I’d like to hear recommendations from the women in the group what you’d like to run that day (or what you’d like to see the men run). I’ll post the run of your choice. So far, I’ve had a request to run at Lasdon Park which would be a new location for us. Anyone else want to offer an opinion?
I look forward to seeing many of you at the Leatherman’s Loop this Sunday. I know we’re expecting a little rain later this week but that should just make the mud flats that much more fun. On the 28th, we’ll be meeting at Mountain Lakes Park for a new version of the course that Mark has set up for us. This time, we’ll be going to the highest point in the park—the highest point in the county, actually. Don’t miss this fun run. I’ll send an update and post the trail map before the event. Have a great race everyone. —Lee Willett
Important notes from the Leatherman’s Loop team
Race organizers Mike Paletta, Tony & Judy Godino, Rob Cummings and the dedicated Leatherman’s Loop volunteers have been working hard to set up this year’s event. All we need is YOU!
Below are some important instructions regarding the Loop. Registration is packed full. We will need your help to ensure that loop day goes smoothly.
Here are some tips that you can incorporate into your plan for the morning and the day:
1.) ARRIVE EARLY! Please plan to arrive at the park before 8:20. Car pool if you can. Traffic will back up considerably at the park entrance as race time approaches. Please be patient. The regular $10 parking fee is incorporated as part of the loop entry fee so entry will go more quickly. It is always wise to arrive earlier than you think you need to in order to make sure you are all set by race start time (9am). This is especially true if it is your first time running the Loop.
2.) DRIVE SLOWLY and CAREFULLY in the Park! Watch the volunteers who are directing the parking. PARK TIGHT! Plan ahead – Car Pool if you can!. For a helpful overview of the race location (parking, start, bib pickup), check the logistics page on the website.
This Sunday, April 14 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking lot for the final course checks of the Leatherman’s Loop. If you’re running the race this year, this is your last chance to run the course with the group before race day so come out and see the trail for yourself. The water crossings are optional but not the Mud Flats so you might want to bring a second set of shoes to change into. I’m just sayin’.
Next week is the Leatherman’s Loop but in two weeks, we’ll meet at Mountain Lakes Park when we run the 5.7 mile loop and visit the highest point in Westchester.
This Sunday, April 7 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking lot for the first of two course checks of the Leatherman’s Loop. If you’re running the race this year, this will be the first of two course checks and a great chance to get out and test the terrain. The water crossings are optional but not the Mud Flats so you might want to bring a second set of shoes to change into. I’m just sayin’.
We’ll be back at the Meadow lot again next week for the final course check.
This week, March 31 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking Lot when we run the Meadow Northern Loop. This is a 5.7 mile loop that follows some of the same trails as the Leatherman’s Loop run so it’s a perfect opportunity to see what the trail is like. Instead of the wall, we’ll be running up part of the fire tower hill so don’t worry, you’ll get some hill training in.
This Sunday, March 24 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Michigan Road lot when we follow the Michigan Road to Kimberly Bridge route. To keep things interesting, we’re going to run this in a counter-clockwise direction which puts the hill from the Meadow at the end of the run. It also portions of the loop course including the finish line. Great training for the loop. PDF of the trail is available here ››
Next week we’ll be back at the Meadow Parking Lot when we run a variation of the Loop course.
This Sunday, March 17 at 8:00, meet at a new location—the gazebo at Leonard Park in Mt. Kisco (see map) when we try a new run on some different trails. We’ll start in Leonard park, go through Marsh Sanctuary, Merestead, and Butler Sanctuary. the path to the Butler loop is 5 miles out and back and the Butler perimeter trail will add 3.5 to that for an 8.5 mile run. But Butler is well marked and there are plenty of options to do a shorter loop. Just bring a map ››
Since the weather is unpredictable, this run is subject to change. Next week we’ll be meeting the Michigan Road lot for the Michigan to Kimberly Bridge run.
With the arrival of more snow, our run from Leonard Park will be postponed again. We will aim for next week but may put it off further if necessary. This Sunday, March 10 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Lewisboro Town Park upper lot when we run the Town to Trailside Loop. This run will take us into the Reservation through the meadow lot for a brief stint on the road to the Trailside Museum then up part of the Fire Tower Hill before we go down to Kimberly Bridge and back via the DH trail. There are lots of good hills here so it’s good training for the Loop if that’s what you’re thinking.
Next week we’ll try the run from Leonard Park again if conditions permit.
This Sunday, March 3 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Reservation Trailside Museum when we run the Trailside to Raven Rocks 6 mile loop. This course will take us over the magic stairs—everybody’s favorite staring climb and a perfect way to tone those muscles you’ll need for the Wall—past Michigan Road to the scenic overlook of Raven Rocks. For those looking to do a smaller loop, follow the red and yellow trail and you can shorten your run significantly.
Next week we’re going to try Leonard Park again and some new trails, hopefully the trails have thawed out a bit.
If you are up for a longer challenge, Todd Jennings is directing Rock The Ridge 50 mile endurance challenge at the spectacular Mohonk Preserve on May 4th, 2013. The challenge is open to relay teams, groups, or solo runners. All speeds welcome.
Last year one of our Sunday Run crew, Dave Vogel, started A Mild Sprain in Yonkers, NY to raise money for JDRF. On May 19th, 2013 he’s bringing this tough 4.25 mile trail run through the woods of Sprain Ridge County Park back for a second year.
For a great and constantly updated list of trail races in the tri-state area, look no further than this list from Chris Jaworski of the Essex Running Club. Chris is a die hard trail and ultra runner who has personally sampled many of the trail races he lists.
A last-minute change of plan this week. Because of icy conditions at Butler Sanctuary, we’re going to postpone the Leonard Park run for two weeks to give the trails some time to thaw out. This week, February 24 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking Lot when we run the Meadow, Michigan, and Museum Loop. This is a 6.15 mile loop starts at the Meadow, goes south over Fox Hill to Michigan Road, then follows Yellow to the Trailside Museum. The second half of the run takes us through the pine forest and back through the meadow—the finish of the Leatherman’s Loop. With the storm on Saturday, I’m not sure what kind of conditions we’ll find but I’ll be there for anyone who wants to run. I checked the trail on Friday and there was a fair amount of ice but the course should avoid any serious water crossings even after a rain.
Next week, plan to meet at the Trailside museum. I’m not sure what trails will be our best bet but we’ll have fun.
On Sunday, February 17 at 8:00 am, meet at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation at the Michigan Road parking lot (see map) for a six-mile loop that is designed to take us on some trails we haven’t been on before. We’ll take in the view from the Overlook and follow a new trail the parks department has made over Dancing Rock without having to backtrack. You can view a map of the course here.
Next week, we’ll be starting from Leonard Park in Mount Kisco on the trails of Marsh Sanctuary, Merestead, Butler Sanctuary. It’s an interesting change of pace.
