The Hill

There is only one hill within 15 miles of my house. I try and run it about twice a week just to stay in practice - I hate feeling like a complete hill wimp.

I have to run 4 miles to get to what I call 'the long side'. This is the easier of the two roads leading up to the top. It is about .25 mile to the top in a nice big sweep that has a flat section for about 100 yds in the middle - I can catch my breath but still not stop. When I get to the top there is a gradual slope up for about .125 mile and then it is level for another .125 or less.

I stop at a park at the top for a minute to get a nice cool drink from the fountain and enjoy the beautiful view before I start down the steep side. I can see to the Santa Cruz Mountains and enjoy the beauty of the valley below.

I have tried a half dozen times to run up the steep side but I get about 3/4 of the way and have to stop because my lungs are going to explode if I don't. It has approximately a 30% grade, nothing to sneeze at. (The steepest street is at a 37% grade in Pennsylvania: not running this one!)Running down it is not easy task either. I have to take much smaller steps and if it is wet - forget it - I take the easy, but longer, way down via the walking trail that leads to the longer side.

I like rolling hills best but since I don't live amongst them I will have to settle for my one little hill.