Where Is It Safe To Run?
 

I'm fairly new to TV and am a runner. I was told by the recreation department that the multi-modal trails were where I should be running... including thru the tunnels.

However, after I tried that a few times I was told by some upset fellow Villagers in golf carts that I should run on the grass instead and was NOT to run on the multi-modal trails...

Being a long time runner I've broken my ankle a couple of times running on the grass when my ankle snapped as my foot landed in a hole hidden by the grass.

Therefore, I would really appreciate some helpful advise as to where can I safely run thru The Villages without getting run over by a golf cart... or breaking my ankle again?

Good luck!
 

I am afraid that no matter where you run or where you ride a bike you are going to make someone unhappy. Some are just more vocal about it than others. Enjoy your run!

The historic side - north of 441/27...no tunnels and low level of traffic! ;)

The next time a golf cart driver tells you that, tell 'em to sit on it and twirl. The paths are for you, too. Just be sure to run against traffic.

There is an exercise path between Springdale and Mulberry. Park by the Springdale pool, go towards the left and you'll see the path. Even has markers for quarter-, half- and mile. Yes, gold carts go on this, too, but they seem to know this is really the runners' path, not theirs.

Are we allowed to use the track at the high school ?

:coolsmiley:

Where is it safe to run?
 

Hi there, Officially you are allowed to run on the golf cart paths and that includes going through the tunnels. In fact runners/walkers have priority over all other users although you would not always think so. I would recommend that where there are pavements you run on them rather than the golf cart lane on the road. The Polo Fields has always been a nice place to run as it is approximately one mile around the outer perimeter however very recently there are now restrictions to where you can run and the days and times you can run.We fully understand why these restrictions are in place.
I am in the UK at present but return to The Villages at the end of the week so I am unable to give you the exact latest info regarding the Polo Fields.

We have a very active track and field club which meets at The High School Track on Mondays,Wednesdays and Fridays from 7.30am to 9.30am. Wednesdays is the best day to come to meet up with the other distance runners .In fact one of our guys is an ultra distance runner (seven marathons in seven days) but he also High Jumps and throws the javelin.They will give you all the info on the best places to run etc. We have athletes of all abilities ,former Olympians ,4minute milers ,current USA Seniors Champions to novices.A fun group. We are also very active in coaching and officiating for The High School in track and field and cross country. Hope to see you next wednesday. Thursdays Recreation News (come with the Daily Sun) will give you other contacts. John Topliss

I was not aware that runners and walkers had priority on the multi-modal paths? If they do not then this is bad and perhaps dangerous advice because runners are going to assume that golf carts will stop on a dime for them.

This morning I had an early tee time. It was darker than usual at that time due to the overcast sky blocking out the moon. On my right walking on the wrong side was a gentleman with absolutely no reflectors. His position just before I neared him placed him deeper into the shadows. I purposefully stay well below the required speed and when my lights picked up on him I was forced to make a quick pulled left to avoid hitting him. This guy never realized how close I came to hitting him.

Members on this forum continually compliment the Developer on this remarkable accomplishment but fail to see the lack of vision which created the need for a multi-modal pathway that is unsafe and serves no one. Worse yet we have residents screaming at one another when the reality is we are all at the mercy of a poorly thought out traffic pattern and the specific needs for residents who are encouraged to engage in a healthy lifestyle .

This situation is only going to get worse as the population explodes. It is not even October yet and already the golf carts are backing up at the usual locations

That is a new one! I am writing it down.:coolsmiley:

I've been running here for almost 4 years and primarily use the sidewalks but will often use multi-modal trails to connect from one area to another. I always run facing traffic and normally not in the dark. So far, 99.9% of people have been courteous and move over a bit. If I hear a cart coming from behind as well as see one coming towards me, I'll step off onto the grass. Every time a cart driver gives me a little space I give them a friendly wave to say thanks.

I would not let a very few grumpd tell you where you should or should not be.
I walk 2-4 miles every day with the dog in the morning....have been doing it for 40 some years (yes, different dogs over time) more than 10 of those years here.

The carts do have to yield to those on foot....they don't like it....they have a thing about having the pedal to the metal with no place to go or be......

when one yells at me, which I can count on one hand over the ten years, I always ask them to pull over and let's discuss their problem! So far no takers.

Use the multi modal paths to run.....unless there is a closed to traffic place to run the multi modal paths are the saftest place to be......

PS....if they are comin' at ya do not assume they see you....most do not!

While running, please, please, please wear white or bright clothing that is visible especially at dusk. And go on the left side and facing oncoming traffic, especially when you are going thru a tunnel.

It takes a few seconds for eyesight to adjust in the dark tunnels and it's difficult to see a runner still close to the entrance if they are on the right side with back to traffic.

Polo field?

Any of the neighborhoods. Usually less traffic. Lots of side streets to add miles.

I walk the neighborhood streets all the time. Never had a problem.