Trumpeter Swans and Volunteers
Originally, I had planned on doing a stair workout in Neyland Stadium. After discovering what kind of red-tape I would have to go through, I changed my mind. I was looking forward to the possibility of recapturing the memories of running the stairs at the UNI Dome (just on a much larger scale), but life goes on – and there are many more opportunities to get in some quality fitness around Knoxville.
After contacting the Knoxville Track Club, I was made aware of a great race in the area – the Summer Solstice 8K in Walland,TN. Supposedly, it is a rather challenging course with lots of hills and is described as a “non-PR” race. Sounds like a fun challenge! And there is a BBQ with music afterwards – even better!!
The race itself is in Walland, TN (just a little south of Knoxville and close to the foothills of the Smoky Mountains) and is in the evening. So, with the morning to kill, I figured to get in an easy run. I read about the Greenway Trail system and since it connected with the University of Tennessee campus, decided to give it a try.
I spotted a trailhead along Neyland Drive which looked like a good place to start. It was on the edge of campus. The trail itself was paved, which made it great for bikers (of which there was plenty of) as well as runners/walkers. I had to directions to choose from. One took me into a wooded area that followed what seemed to be a creek or maybe backwater, and the other ran astride of Neyland and the Tennessee River. I chose the creek.
Within the first 100 feet or so, I came across grey squirrels, ducks, geese, and a rather obnoxious Trumpeter Swan! I followed this path for about a half mile until I came across an old athletic field that was property of the university. I then turned around and headed back towards the river. And, of course, got trumpeted at once again.
I ran alongside the river for a short while, watching as a riverboat cruised by, and passing many runners, runners with dogs, bikers, inline skaters, and walkers. All greeted me with a smile - even the dogs. I then decided to see the campus sites. More specifically, the athletic facilities.
Running on and past streets named after Volunteer legends, I came to Volunteer Blvd., which connects you to everything UT. At one end, Neyland Stadium with its MANY stairs, and down the road a bit, the UT track. I was hoping to get a few laps in but a meet was going on. I ran by the baseball and softball stadiums, the University Gardens, and eventually back to the trailhead. I realize that there was much more to see than this but I had an 8K to run later on. In all, just under 5 miles of easy sightseeing.
It’s a hot, humid day here. Definitely reminds me of home. The race this evening could be quite interesting but I will report on that later. Right now, I need to drive south to Walland and find myself a campground. That is - if my car makes it.
Peace
Notes from the road:
1) As I entered onto I-81, a Monarch flew into my car antenna and stuck. So, for a little while, it looked like I was driving with a little butterfly flag. It was flying at half-mast.
2) The Virginia State Troopers were out in full force. The squad of Chevy Impalas were doing good business. I’m happy to report that I wasn’t a customer.
Road song of the day: “Somewhere In The Middle” by Dishwalla