I ran 1 lap of the Pullman Winter Ultra #1 today. I started late, so I missed the mass start, but it really doesn’t change much. While I travelled along the snow-covered trail I was completely alone. And I was fine with that. After all, running is an individual event. There aren’t a lot of “team” running events (yes, there are relays, I know).

About half way around, I caught up with Annie, who was also traveling completely alone. We walked up a hill together, then I left her behind and was alone once more. So it remained until I finished.

After my lap, I grabbed my Nikon and went along the course looking for photo opportunities. I found them, 1-3 runners at a time.

So running is very individual. Social interactions are limited or nonexistent.

Except when it isn’t. The most outgoing group you can possibly get is found by getting a bunch of runners in the same room. Just add a little beer. I have met more friends in the last year from Beer Chasers than I had the previous six (or more) years I’ve lived in Pullman.

So running is very group oriented. You can’t help but be drawn into social interactions; they are numerous and diverse.

Individual. Groups. Both.