A good pair of running shoes will get you about 400 miles down the road. Depending on your training, this can be anywhere from 2 – 5 months or more (we'll talk shoes later). A minimal investment for a pair of shorts and shirt and you are well on your way. Running produces endorphins, lowers blood pressure and cholesterol, and removes stress, just a few of the ways to ‘improve’ your body’s economy.
If you think about it, running improves the Tucson economy as well:
- The Southern Arizona Roadrunners have nearly 5,000 finishers in their first eight races this year. Races were held all over town using the resources of local retailers, merchants and facilities.
- More than 150 meet regularly at the Meet Me at Maynard’s social run downtown.Many stay and eat, drink and socialize.
- There are nearly 10 local running groups that provide coaching, workouts and training partners for free or a small fee. These runners patronize local running shops, health food stores and other establishments.
- Tucson is home to many world class athletes, proving a draw for other athletes to travel here and train.
Undoubtedly we are blessed with one of the best places to run in the world. Sabino Canyon, Saguaro National Monument East (and West), Catalina State Park, the Rillito River Path, Agua Caliente and Reid Park are just a few places runners convene to ‘improve’ the economy. Maybe it is a stretch to think that running will change the economy – but it will improve yours (that and about 30 minutes to burn off the SPAM sandwich you had for lunch…).
Running also helps dogs get their exercise, either when you bring one with you or get chased by one on the river walk.
ReplyDeleteI'm into what I call "power walking" during which I can average about 4 mph and insure I keep up with Phoebe's incessant leash pulling.
And I'm more likely to invest in running shoes a million times before I invest in SPAM.
Thanks Ryn - we often joke that we could run our PR's if only we could get someone to chase us...
ReplyDeleteThere are many events (runs/walks) that cater to people and the dogs that, ahem, own them. The Tucson Police Foundation just had a K-9 Walk For Cops (http://www.tucsonpolicefoundation.org/caninewalk.htm). I allowed dogs at the Spring Cross Country Race - but had them start in the rear so not to scare the pets. Several other local races will allow dogs - although it is wise to ask in advance to make the race fun for you and your pet.
“Will Running Save the Economy?”
ReplyDeleteNo. Only cutting "entitlements" will save the economy.
Ryn talked about running with dogs - here is another race/walk:
ReplyDeleteWhat: Tucson Canine Classic.
When: 6:45 p.m. June 27. A pet festival will take place from 5 to 10 p.m.
Where: Brandi Fenton Memorial Park, 3482 E. River Road.
Cost: $20 per dog and two cans of human or dog food.
Description: Walk or run the 5-kilometer or 1-mile course and raise funds for FAIR. For families without dogs, a rent-a-dog service is available for $20.
The pet festival will have 50-plus exhibitors, along with food, music, a doggy fashion show and talent show and a 100-yard dash for kids and puppies. Free and discounted microchips for pets will be available.
Information: www.tucsoncanineclassic.org