Despite hilly terrain and tenuous wayfinding in West Seattle, the Suffer Through Crew completed this 11-mile slog in good condition and vitamin D-induced high spirits. Highlights along the route included a new green space that was filled with bird song: Schmitz Preserve Park. Alki Beach remains a top tier running strip with great opportunities for people watching. The Colman Pool was our turn around point. This sea saltwater pool was constructed in 1941 and is described as the “destination resort of Seattle” and “one of the most scenic pools in America”. It’s on my last hurrah Seattle bucket list.
We also had a run-in with Fudge, a large chocolate beast of a dog, who came running at Elly as we were going through an alley. This big boy (60 lbs at least) probably just wanted to say hello, but his overly enthusiastic greeting wasn’t to be trusted.
This was Evan’s longest run ever and not an easy 11! Several prolonged hills had us walking and panting and getting caked in salt. I also haven’t completed this distance since June 2024. I’m proud of us all and impressed with how quickly our bodies have adapted to the training plan. Even though we were worn out, we put in a good few hours in the garden after returning home.
