Exercising to the Beat of the Street

As the first snow of the season steadily fell, about 60 hearty runners raced through the stark forests of Ridley Creek State Park on Jan. 18 for the 13th annual Winter Pickle Run Trail Race. The winter, with its bone-chilling winds and cloudy skies, may make you want to hibernate in your warm and cozy house. But for some people, and especially runners, being outdoors during the cold months can be the best time of year. Driving through the 2,600-acre state park, I was amazed at how quiet and peaceful it seemed without the crowds of people who typically enjoy the area's many recreational activities in the warmer months. The idea of creating running events during the winter, which were once practically non-existent, started more than a decade ago. Local runner Tim Krueger explained that back then his running "was in a pickle," so after a party and a few beers the "Pickle Run"  idea was born. I've always wanted to try this race, so last month I signed up to b