Where I Run (Las Vegas)

This was the second time I've been in Las Vegas. The first time was fifteen years ago on vacation for a few days. I went on business (yes, business) this time attending the National Association of Broadcasters convention. (Not to bore you with the details of my job but I work in the web broadcasting department for my company and we wanted to see what was new and exciting for the future).

Having been ill the previous week, I was bound and determined to keep up with some of my training when I was in Las Vegas. I thought I was going to have a chance to swim but, the pool was too small to do laps at the Las Vegas Hilton (where I was staying) and the water was too freakin' cold!!!! So, I ran about 3 miles every morning I was there around the Hilton complex.

At the very bottom of this entry are two videos of my 'Where I Run' series I am doing. Granted, I don't run in Vegas all the often (as a matter of fact, this was the first time). But, thought it might be interesting. I am enjoying doing these series and probably need to upgrade equipment if I continue doing more of them (video camera phones are ok but I know they are not the best. But, very convenient to take along).

I got back Thursday night and the heat followed me home as it has been in the 90s (F) over the weekend. Feels like summer already. Friday night I did (2) 12 laps plus (2) slow, medium, fast laps in the pool. Saturday, I rode my bike (thanks Mitch!) 8 miles to get used to it. I didn't have a chance to run the borrowed road bike. It's much easier to ride than a mountain bike. And, Sunday, I ran 6 miles around Lake Galena in the morning. I should say I ran/walked in. It does feeling I will never get my stamina back. Patience, Joe, patience. Just keep at it and it will return.

Anyway, along with the videos, below are some pictures from my trip. I had a chance to walk 'The Strip' on Wednesday night. Hope you enjoy.

(Notes: I kind of made this decision before, but I won't be participating in the Broad Street Run this year. I've been focusing on my tri training and, truthfully, never had a chance to get in some longer runs for the event. I just didn't think I was ready for it. )



(above: Las Vegas Hilton where I was staying. Barry Manilow was appearing there for a permanent show. Could have bought some Manilow water from the Manilow store inside but decided to pass on that.)

(above: A statue of Elvis Presley outside of the Las Vegas Hilton. Elvis had an eight-year exclusive run in their showroom. 837 consecutive sold-out performances, entertaining some 2.5 million people. As the plaque states: Elvis, the king of Las Vegas.)

(above: The Flamingo Hotel at the corner of West Flamingo Road and Las Vegas Blvd.)

(above: The Paris hotel on 'the Strip'.)

(above: The Bellagio Hotel)

(above: The Bellagio Hotel and the start of the water fountain show that begins every 15 minutes)