Since I started running longer distances nearly five years ago, I’ve found running to be a great way to explore a new place. I have fond memories of runs in LA, Denver, Amsterdam, London, Wales, Puerto Rico, New Philadelphia in Ohio, India and perhaps a few more. Sometimes I wondered whether I would find my way back to my hotel; some runs were snow covered and others way too hot, but all were satisfying. There is a sense of adventure and exploration when running in a new place.
Yesterday’s run marked an exciting milestone: I ran on the city track. I found the track last Thursday, but even though I could see some people running on the track through the fence, I couldn’t get in because the main entrance was closed for the May Day Laborers holiday. I decided to try again. I ran the 1.2 miles to the entrance, bought a ticket for about 70 cents and made my way to the track. Looking at the views of the surrounding mountains and the little kids executing soccer drills in the center of the field, I’m not sure I’ve ever been so happy to run in circles around the track. The ground was level and the air felt so much cleaner than on the streets.
At 11,150 feet, Cusco presents a unique set of challenges and I have to admit that if the Lima Marathon wasn’t in two weeks, I might be taking a break after running the Boston Marathon on April 21. I recall feeling the altitude in Denver and in Xela, Guatemala, long before I was running very far, but the extra few thousand feet makes a big difference. On top of that avoiding hills is impossible, which would be fine except for the altitude which makes even walking up a hill feel like a herculean feat at times. Plus there is considerable traffic and I noticed 84 octane gas seems to be the norm which doesn’t make for easy breathing. Motivated by Lima I made it out and logged a little over 17 miles last week — some of them very slow, but completed nonetheless.
I am feeling slightly more optimistic about Lima than I was a week ago and if all goes well over the next two weeks, I feel ready to run and happy that I signed up to run just because it is a marathon in a country I happen to be in.
Para mi Madre, Para mi 
wow, I know what you mean about altitude. Denver air is definitely thinner so I can only imagine 11k plus altitude! What a workout.
Hang in there Laurie:) we are all cheering for you!
Laurie,your determination will carry you in your next marathon. Thoughts and prayers are sent to you towards your current journey.
What a wonderful adventure! It’s quite an ambitious goal to run another marathon so soon after Boston, but I admire the fact that you’ve seized the opportunity as it presented itself regardless of timing. I’ll enjoy following your blog as you recount your experiences in Peru!
Wow, I’m impressed that you’re running at that altitude (just hiking winded me at times) and running a marathon in Lima. That’s awesome! Good luck on your marathon! 🙂