Click here for the Sept 6th newsletter, with notes about Tucson runners Chris Fall and Aubrey Bergeson, and a memory of Lyndon Ellefson and Skyrunning. Our best wishes to the families and loved ones of Aubrey, Chris, Kalie McCristal and those caught in the Grand Canyon flood. Thanks to Wieke de Boer for sharing her North Kaibab story.
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The events in Tucson, the Grand Canyon, and the Alps remind us to never take nature for granted. Here are some reminders if you’re doing any sort of wilderness running:
- If possible, run in groups of three — in case something happens, one person can stay with the injured athlete while the other gets help.
- Many of us run solo — when running alone, do your best to let people know where you are and the time-frame for your run. In crisis, partner with others on the trail.
- Make sure your communication tech works. Many phones have emergency signal tools, so prepare in case you need to use them.
- Prepare for weather changes. Ensure that you have enough food and drink in case of an emergency.
- If running on snow and ice, perhaps have an avalanche beacon device that can be activated in crisis.
- Understand the possible risks, and when in doubt, turn back and get to safety.
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All of us on this list share the love of movement and the joy of running–we have different life experiences — and we have different levels of comfort for adventure and risk, but all of us go through similar experiences on a regular basis.
Please know that your running community is there for you. Runners are good people — they will provide support and they will provide companionship. Reach out to them.