My wife and I have run this twice before. I was going solo this time around. We drove out the morning of the event and paid to park in a parking lot very close to the start. We probably could have found some free parking elsewhere, but we wanted to be near the start where my wife could sit back in the car and read while I was on the course.
This was one of those days I don't care for... cold and rainy. Many people wore tights. I was contemplating which was to go and stuck with shorts and a very light long sleeve shirt. No hat, but I had some cheap throw away gloves. I run all winter long... outside and every single day. In the snow, sleet, and whatever cold temperatures come. So I'm not a fair weather runner. Still, I never care for standing around waiting for a race to start shivering in the rain. But soon and with good fortune the race started. A half mile later and I was at a good (and warm) operating temperature.
The race is pretty tame to start. Then come long sustained hills. Early in the race that is no problem. As the race goes on the hills take their toll. And what goes up must come down. There are some steep (again relative) downhill sections that often pound the crud out of feet and calves.
There are plenty of water stations along the course. I tend to bring my own just because I train that way and, let's face it, the aid stations are often crowded. I'd rather avoid the bottleneck and carry my own. It's overkill, but a choice I make. I use a Hydraquiver Single Barrel. It's sort of like a small pack with a holster to hold a single water botttle. It has a zippered section in the back for things like phone, car keys, and stuff I'd be needing after the race. The shoulders straps each have a pouch that can fit gels, sunglasses, iPod, etc. I often use this because I'm carrying things for myself and my wife when we race. Again, overkill in a race with aid stations. But I don't think it slows me down at all.
Ultimately, the race was fun and certainly a challenge. Too many people are out looking for a flat and fast course. Why? Have some fun with something that really pushes you. My time was 1:21:16. Not fast but not slow. I'm just a MOP guy trying to have fun staying fit anyway. The post race food and music was great. This race has beer, but I'm not so much into that. I grabbed a banana, a chocolate milk, and some cookies. The jacket and medal are cool. I bought the glasswear too because I liked the design. Running this race was a blast and I'm pretty sure I'll be back next year depending on what else is on the calendar.
No comments:
Post a Comment