his column takes a look at the year through a runner's eyes and legs. Sometimes whimsical, sometimes serious, and I hope always entertaining. Originally published monthly in the Newsletter in 2000, they have been updated to fit the races and seasons for this year. This issue will cover the two months, August and September. [ Disclaimer: I have no pretentions of being an expert at anything, but I've certainly been around the block a time or two.]

Advice from Papa Bear

August: Long Run Pacing — Your U.T. Papa Bear says: It's long run season and long runs cause soreness or injury for two reasons: 1) you run too fast, and 2) you get dehydrated. In both cases you break down your muscles and delay recovery. Papa Bear says to avoid these problems, run your long runs under your U.T. (Urination Threshold). If you aren't making a pit stop every 5 miles or so, you're running too fast or you're drinking too little, or both. So slow down and drink up!

September: The Bridle Path Papa Bear says: As you increase your mileage training for the marathon, your legs take a beating, especially you ankles, knees and hips. Give them a break — get off the pavement and run on the Central Park Bridle Path whenever you can. You can run about 2/3 of the way around the Park on this path, and your legs will thank you. As an added benefit, you will likely see Giorgio in his multi-colored running clothes!