Saucony 2009 - Molly Huddle

Looking out the window of Tia Loco’s ‘palace’ we are surrounded by looming brown mountains (called Sandias, which means ‘watermelon’, because they sometimes look red-ish at sunset) casting sharp shadows in the powerful sun, dry brown grass and pueblo style houses. A ball of tumbleweed blows across the street, and a dust storm is seen far on the horizon. It is a very different sight from the narrow streets and ocean-side atmosphere of Rhode Island. We are in Albuquerque, New Mexico doing 3 and a-half weeks of altitude training at about 5,200 feet. I’ve been to higher places before, but I think this is a good level for me as I don’t wake up at night short of breath or almost pass out when I stand up.

We (Kurt, Mike Woods and I) have only been here for about 5 days, but so far it’s been pretty smooth sailing. Between the great cooking of Judy-the lovely owner of the place we’re staying- (oh yeah and Mike’s too; thanks for the pizza and meatloaf mom! Haha) and the awesome Mexican restaurant food here, I’ll never be hungry either. If you ever thought the USA has the monopoly on deliciously fattening food, you have not had a sopa pilla with honey. It sort of tastes like a donut.

Aside from training, taking naps and drinking liquid iron shots, we hope to get to see some sights here too. There is a cheap train ride into Santa Fe, a cool tram ride up the mountain and a penciled in appointment to ride in hot air balloon in the next few weeks. Maybe we’ll even grow some cajones and match Judy by going sky diving or zip lining….who am I kidding, they can go and I will watch. Well I’m off to kick up some dust on a run. I am beginning the beginnings of getting back into shape. Hope you’re all enjoying your extra oxygen down there!