Born to Run (away from reality)
Born to Run. A book by Christopher McDougall about, well, running. Running a long ways. Listening to the book on tape as we drove back from Vegas was the deciding factor for me to sign up for the National Championships at the 24 hours of COS. I know, the 24 hours of COS is a mountain bike race, but the ability of the Tarahumara People to run incredible distances, to run it fast, and do it with a smile on their faces was inspirational. It got me pumped to do one more you-gotta-be-kidding-me event.
It’s been over a month since the 24 hours of COS. And now, with the season officially shut down, I thought I’d give running a go. It’s been over a year since I last laced up the running shoes. My personal history of running is not illustrious or fantastic. In fact, I’m a comical shit-show of suffering and pain when I have to put one foot in front of the other. Imagine a beached whale. That would be a generous description of how I run. But this time would be different. The technique and mentality of proper and enjoyable running had been revealed. I understood how to be light and agile on the balls of my feet. Just brush the ground. Just brush it. Just . . . brush . . it.
Well, I ran about a mile and a half, and it hurt like hell. I lumbered and plodded for all but the first 100 yards. I didn’t even finish the run. I walked the last half mile home. Born to run. F*ck that.
Syd VeloWool trainer by Alchemist
The Syd VeloWool® Trainers are just around the corner. We are offering $30 off pre-orders until December 1. The Syd is featured in the latest Velonews. The December issue is so hot off the presses, it’s not online yet. You’ll have to check out the print version. When you do, flip to the Holiday Gift Guide. You can see the Syd in all its glory on a full page spread.
Check out Tom, Jenn, and her nephew, Max, sporting Palace City Pedalers jerseys. Designed and made by Alchemist.
Palace City Pedalers
Tom Dice and Grandson, Max. Palace City Pedaler Stalwarts
Team Alchemist Blog 
Love the Syd!!