Monday, April 20, 2009

Rave Run: Sidney By the Sea

Last weekend we were petsitting for my Dad at his house in Sidney, BC. It's a cute little town just outside Victoria on Vancouver Island. We took the ferry, which is about a 2 1/2 hour trip, and got to see a bunch of dolphins swimming alongside the vessel. There were also a lot of seagulls hanging around looking for misplaced french fries or sandwich crusts, but they were less interesting.
Back to the petsitting, my Dad and his wife have 3 cats and two dogs. They're all very cute and lovable, but unfortunately Ian and I both have pretty severe cat allergies and even though the guest house is supposed to be cat-free, we had major issues (running noses, red, watery eyes, athsma). I was a little worried I wouldn't be able to run, but getting out for my 5 miles along the ocean was just what I needed to clear out the toxins.
(One of the allergin carriers, Ernie, wouldn't come out of hiding all weekend. But I found him)
I started out by Beacon Park, which is a little grassy area at the end of the main shopping street. I followed the path along the shoreline and ran out onto both piers and back to add a bit more interest. The trail only goes for a couple of miles and then you have to go up to the road...

(Pier No.2)

(Rather gory safety notice on Pier No.2)

It was a gorgeous, spring day and all of the flowers were blooming and the birds were singing. I didn't spot any wildlife or other runners, although I kept looking for them. I did see a lot of retirees strolling along or sitting on benches. There are a lot of people over 65 in Sidney.

(View of the sea from the road)

As I ran I listened to Phedippidations Ep. 183 where Steve Runner discusses why he believes the Boston Marathon is the best in the world. I think I'll save this one and listen to it over and over again.

Links: Sidney, BC

Victoria

Vancouver Island

Phedippidations

Boston Marathon

8 comments:

Jocelyn said...

Wow, its so pretty there! I"m so jealous

jeannie said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
jeannie said...

I enjoyed reading this post and looking at the pics. I hope I get a chance to visit that part of BC.

I Run for Fun said...

Looks like a beautiful place. Your dad must love it.

Unknown said...

Another well-written beautiful slice of your running life Nicole. Bravo.

Petraruns said...

First of all congrats on making the Team Point 2 - what are your goals? Secondly we have spent some time out in Vancouver and Whistler and Vancouver Island over the years and I love seeing it all again in your photos so keep them coming!

Ron said...

lol, i thought that diving sign was graffiti, but even more funny it appears to be the actual thing!

beautiful area

LMC said...

My mom designed that Beacon Park sign:)