So finally we are here!  After months of excitement and anticipation we are now in Eugene, Oregon - a runners dream!

Well, that is apart from the rain.   I must admit that it took me a day or so to get used to the temperature too.  We've gone from 34-35 degrees in Australia to 10 degrees here.  However, there is something strangely novel about going out running in leggings and gloves.  It's almost refreshing after the sweaty heat in Aus, though there's a good chance the novelty will wear off soon.  The grass is always greener you know!

We've been here in Eugene for six days now and I have never been to a better place for training.  There are loads of cycles paths to run along, and numerous trails - some of which have been created specifically for running, with bark underfoot and distance markers.  Surely you've all heard of 'Pre's trail' too?  I can see myself spending large amount of time down there!  If you travel further out of the city there are lengthier woodland trails, so that may be an exploration project at the weekend! Eugene is also home to the historic Hayward Fields, which hosts the Prefontaine Classic in July and is where many of the Oregon Track Club and the University of Oregon runners train regularly. Everything just seems really geared up for running, and there are loads of runners about.  It's quite exciting whenever you go down to the trails because you  never know who you  might see.  No legends have been spotted running so far (that I've recognised anyway) but that's not going stop me looking!

In terms of training, things are good although I'm starting to see the track season lurking in the distance and  things seems to be gathering pace as we approach it.  I don't quite have the fear yet, but I can feel it brimming! Before the summer excitement I am racing indoors at the Husky Classic next weekend. I feel I can improve on my New Years day solo effort so am looking forward to it. Bring it on!!

Running through Alton Baker Park in Eugene