Surly Trail Loppet Half-Marathon

It helps to balance out the ridiculous number of food-related entries with proof that I also do a good amount of running, right?  I wouldn't want anyone to think all I do is eat cupcakes.  Although, now that I think about it, that wouldn't really be a bad life.

Cupcakes would be an excellent addition to the already fantastic race sponsored by Surly in Theodore Wirth park.  This half-marathon was the first trail half I ever did two years ago and it was the race that opened my eyes to what has become my favorite form of exertion.  I just don't think there's a better feeling (in terms of exercise) than pounding down a leaf-strewn path, hopping over tree roots, and listening to your own breath with each swish of a tree branch. It's almost spiritual to me. And Surly does a great job supporting an awesome location for a trail race.  This year there was lefse (complete with butter, sugar, and cinnamon) pre-race and spectators and runners alike were rewarded with several Surly brews at the finish line.  I'm lucky enough to have someone in my life who is happy to clap at the finish regardless of the presence of beer, but I have a sneaking suspicion that the promise of a Surly keg (or two or three) may make cheering my slow self on a wee bit more enjoyable.  And I must say, a bit of Surly Hell (my new favorite) at the finish softens the aches and pains quite well.

Follow me on Twitter @TheMinneapolite