Chocolate City

Got outside this morning and ran to the distinct smell of chocolate. Thought I was nuts at first but the smell went away as I got into Tinicum only to resume again once I got back on to 420. It felt like I was taking in more calories than I was burning. Nothing in the news sofar about any overturned tanker truck carrying syrup or Willie Wonka coming to town. But it sure was a nice smell.

That was the most interesting part of my morning jaunt. Went into Tinicum for 18 minutes, turned around and got back out of there (same route backwards) in just under 16. For once I appreciated the give of the dirt trails. Slow paced at first, my legs needed that break today. Sun was a rising orange-red ball over the mudflats, and everything seemed at peace.

Ian (who also posted some good Cesar Rodney photos yesterday) emailed me yesterday to wish me well. This jolted me into realizing that my target race is now the day after tomorrow. I'm peaking now, and feel really ready to run. Here is last year's results - 24 people finishing under 16 minutes. Just the type of field I want. The course is flat but the weather is so-so (cloudy, high 30s with snow showers in afternoon). Either way, I'm ready.

4 miles or so in 33:59.