By REED DESALVO

The Natchez Democrat

NATCHEZ — Tommy Smith’s backyard is not your ordinary landscape.

Instead of being confined by a small picket fence, Smith’s backyard features a three-mile trail of rugged terrain, equipped with a log-ridden trail surrounding a small pond on a 37-acre piece of land where members of local running and bike clubs come to enjoy and take on the challenges of the course.

“It’s just a good place for us to be able to have a good, safe trail to (exercise) on,” Smith said. “We don’t have to travel anywhere.”

Smith has long been an avid cyclist and served as a member on his high school’s cross country team in addition to racing mountain bikes throughout his life.

Smith said there is one looming factor that comes down to why the trail was put in place — to promote better health and fitness in the local community.

The backyard trail has served as a haven to Natchez outdoor enthusiasts since 1993, when the only alternative to experience a similar trail was located in Roxie.

“It’s 30-35 minutes to drive out (to Clear Springs Lake),” Smith said. “I thought we just could make a trail right here. It just kind of went hand-in-hand with all the things I’ve done in my life, it’s just different form of recreation.”

Smith serves as the head coach on the Cathedral High School’s cross-country and track teams, and said his trail has proved to pay dividends in providing the development of his team’s talents.

“I’m all about trying to improve our local area’s outdoor activities, especially for the kids.” Smith said. “A lot of the kids have never run in trails like that. It’s a whole new ball game to them.”

Smith said it is not out of the ordinary for people to be there in the early hours of the morning, to some coming to test their skills into the late evening. Smith himself said he attempts to hit the trek at least once a week, either running or biking.

“We’re all limited by our work or what have you,” Smith said. “But whenever you have time, you try to squeeze (an exercise) in. Some of the time I get to recreate on my own trail is when I’m out here (with the Cathedral track and cross country team) doing workouts.”

Some enthusiasts have even been fortunate enough to take part in a cookout following the ride.

“It’s a lot of different aspects,” Smith said. “We have a healthy slant on it, and a socializing side to it as well.”

Eager participants are encouraged to contact Smith by email at bicmoto@yahoo.com.