Since it is National Running Day (yes, apparently it’s a thing), I thought I should post something. And, since I have been accused of only kvetching on this blog, I decided to write about some of my favorite things about running in the city. So here you go:
Not much beats running along Lake Michigan on the Lakefront Path. The lake breeze (in the summer that is, not the face-ripping wind in the winter) and the scenery can’t be beat. My all-time favorite view of the Chicago skyline from the Lakefront Path is heading southbound, just to the south of North Avenue Beach. You can see Navy Pier, the Ferris wheel, along with the Hancock Building and the rest of the skyline. It is absolutely breathtaking. The view of the skyline facing north at the Shedd Aquarium is probably my second favorite view. Come to Chicago and check it out!
I also love running in Chicago because there is always something interesting going on, so the backdrop for your run is always changing. Sometimes you may even catch a crazy character, like the Hi Guy, who adds a little zest to an otherwise long, exhausting run. For those of you who don’t know the Hi Guy, he is a “character” in every sense of the word. He's an older man who runs in sandals and a yellow t-shirt with “Hi” written in magic marker and a smilie face. Sometimes he wears a beanie with a propeller. He also rides a kooky bike, if he’s not on foot. He will write in sidewalk chalk “Hi” and images of smilie faces. Always say, “Hi” to Hi Guy because he will never fail to give you an enthusiastic “Hi!” right back. I hear that you should not engage him in conversation, however, because he is a bit off his rocker. So if you don’t have time for a long-winded conversation, just say “Hi, Guy!” as you run by and wave. J
The craziest thing I have seen on one of my runs in Chicago is at a tie: a person running while pushing a white poodle wearing pink goggles in a stroller vs. a chicken (well, technically a rooster). ‘Nuff said.
Since I recently moved away from the lake, I now run along the Chicago River path. It is actually quite lovely and not as crowded as the Lakefront Path can be with all the bikers, roller bladers, and tourists. There is always a squirrel party going on along the riverfront park, and you may get lucky enough to see a great blue heron. The other day I saw a whole gaggle of goslings swimming in formation. I almost fell into the water from total cuteness overload!
Okay, happy running, everyone! Now get out there and break a sweat!
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