Bandanas and T-Shirts

Running shoes, gear and accessories have exploded in recent years. There is no shortage of new and exciting items on the market from minimalist shoes to ones with springs to aid your step. All sorts of gear is available like arm sleeves; cushioned inserts; gaiters; gps watches; hydration bottles, belts, packs and vests; compression wear; reflective gear; headlamps and the list goes on and on.

Besides the three S’s (shorts shirt, and shoes), there is one item that I’m rarely without on my run and that would be a trusty bandana. These colorful hankies have been used by cowboys for years and since ultramarathon trail races evolved from trail horse races, it is only fitting that ultra runners rely heavily on their bandanas. 

Maddie, a true Texan!

How exactly do we use this cowpoke adornment, you might ask. Well, it can be used to wipe sweat, keep the sun off your neck, the dust out of your lungs, or you can tie it around your head for that Willie Nelson look. Put one around your dog’s neck and everyone will exclaim, “Awwwwww” when you run past them.

"Awwwwwwww!"

If you have an accident, it can be used as a tourniquet, bandage, sling, knee brace or in the case of a bathroom emergency...well, never mind. Other uses are: mark a trail (works better than bread crumbs), swat bees, signal help, filter water, and if your car overheats, use it to take the radiator cap off. 

Hmmmmmmmmm....

Unfortunately, that is just what happened last weekend while on my way to the trailhead. My three dogs and I became stranded in the metropolis of Anthony, TX not to be confused with Anthony, NM which is just a few short strides away. 

While waiting for the calvary to arrive, we decided to take a long run around both towns and now intimately know every square inch of Anthony to include each pitbull, rottweiler and chihuahua. Besides collecting canines, Anthonites are fond of used tires and we happened upon several heaps stacked a dozen deep. 

Maddie (Awwwwwwwww)

Well, in spite of our tribulations, we were able to get a solid 14 miles in and the day before, I ran a 16 miler along the Rio Grande levee. I was actually supposed to run on trails, but the road leading to the state park was closed due to an accident, so it just wasn’t a good trail running weekend. It can only get better from here though.

In other news, the running t-shirt quilt that Cara and I started at the beginning of the summer is complete. It looks spectacular and Maddie loves being wrapped up in it. Thank you Cara for doing a fantastic job sewing it all together. I now have a two sided keepsake representing 32 of my running events. Now you know why runners like to log all those miles...for the t-shirts. 

See you on the trail.