Country Ride City Run

Four hours in the rain along the only road to Milford Sound we marveled at the landscape of New Zealand’s south island. Falling water, lakes and rivers decorated the way as mountains and hills lined the route. Dairy, pig, deer, sheep, fruit and vegetable farms largely accounted for property use. I recall one gorgeous view which occupied the field of vision in every direction. This vast expanse of unused land wasn’t spoiled by impervious surfaces of retail plazas, a welcomed sight for this suburban American. Over and over I kept saying to Shannan and to myself, “I’d love to run here.”

All this stood in stark contrast to the way the rainy morning began. I went out for a run in Queenstown, New Zealand. The night before the city held its Winter Fest, replete with concerts and fireworks. Our hotel, perched directly above the town center, provided a fantastic view for the festivities. At 5:00 in the morning many revelers remained in party mood. City workers cleaned up from the previous night’s celebration. Hundreds of young folks roamed the streets crowed with pubs, shops and tourist offices. Not many of the throng of businesses were open at this hour, nevertheless the non-stop party people kept the good times going. They created an energy of sorts in the otherwise chilly and drab morning. Ah the cosmopolitan city dwellers, they are a powerful force. Thanks to these gals and guys I didn’t spend much time thinking about the inclement weather or the monotony of a retail run. Still, I’d love to run in the countryside of New Zealand.

Be a part of the story. Run.

Tom