Trail Run race 1:36:54 [5] 6.84 mi (14:10 / mi) +1623ft 11:34 / mi
shoes: Salomon Speedcross 3
Chilly Cheeks Trail Race, definitely chilly! Glad to have this under my belt. Big thanks hughmac4 for the inspiration as usual! (and the watch when I forgot mine!) It was very nice to see everyone from DVOA too.
In general I was very conservative about my energy levels for this because I was unsure how the cold and climb would affect me. Looking back I wish I would have pushed a little harder, but I know that it was good for my first effort at something like this, and will serve as a jumping off point for the rest of the year. Spent too much time managing clothing, but I was happy with my layers, and needed all of them!
The most fun part of this race was going downhill and going past people who seemed really afraid. I think I even let out a "whee!" at one point. Training w hughmac4 on hills was key to this attitude. And, the right shoes really helped on rocks, leaves, and snow.
The uphills, however, were tough on my legs. I tried to stay peppy, but at one point it was just one foot in front of the other and trying to stay focused on breathing and counting steps.
Although there are people all around you, and sometimes there is friendly banter between you, there is an interesting aloneness that happens. (Not in a bad way.) I tried to use a little mindfulness and just notice the way my body felt, listen to the footsteps crunching, feel the air nip my nose, and be in the moment - even it it was a grueling one. I want to explore this more on future runs and I think it will be a helpful approach for me, as I'm someone who can get caught up in fearful thoughts.
The whole point is to enjoy what my body CAN do!
167th of 227 runners.