Women's Running and Women Runners - LA When It Sizzles

As all you TWC addicts know, we're experiencing an unseasonably hot June here in SoCal. "June gloom" is gone with the (Santa Ana) winds and the temperatures are soaring to triple digits during the day.

I woke up extra early this morning to hit the road while it was still (I thought) cool. Unfortunately, by the time I got out - around 6-ish, temps were already in the mid 80s and climbing rapidly. I happen to do really well in hot climes, but was careful to slowly hydrate before jumping into my 5 miles.

Lo and behold, I had lots of company! It seemed like everyone on the planet had the same idea; bicyclists, dog walkers and TONS of other women runners and I competed for the east side of the road in a pitiful attempt to keep to the shade as much as possible.

Thankfully, very few cars were out yet and the air was as clean as it ever gets this time of year. What a great run! I don't ever try to beat a PR when it's hot like this but I definitely held my own - especially on the brutal 30% grade up Burbank that always marks the last 1/4 mile for me.

Of course, the best was the plunge into the pool, which cools me down instantly and brings a terrific sense of elation. What joy!