Probably my least favorite conditions ever for this race. The rain was quite heavy and it was definitely cold. Only way to stay warm was to go fast, ran the first mile hard with this in mind. Found myself alongside Aaron Major, who has beaten me in the past. Another guy was way out ahead, but hoped he was just the 6 mile. Stayed with Aaron for the first several miles. Took a spill on the way to Hang Glider's Cliff, but just slid in the mud, no harm. We actually caught the lead guy on the super muddy and technical stretch after the climb coming back from the cliff (I don't think he was prepared for the conditions based on his shoe choice).

Heading to the split, I started to pull away from Aaron a bit, sensing I was feeling better than him. The lead guy took off again once we were off the trails, and thankfully he went to the 6 mile finish. So now I knew I was running in first, with only Aaron in range. Moved along the fence well, and after crossing the road I went hard up the Paint Mine hill, figuring this would put the race out of reach. Kept running with purpose after, but also didn't want to hurt myself. Eventually had to pull my gloves off because they were so wet, it was actually making my cold hands worse. Took another spill on a turn, less soft landing this time, but still no real harm. Cruised home along the fence (a few confused runners must not have been able to believe how far behind me they were lol) and finish under 90 minutes for a big PR and my first ever win at either race here!

Nothing race-wise. Maybe hand warmers.

Got to the car and into dry clothes as quickly as possible. Had some food, got my award, and headed out with Danielle.


Conditions


I really love this race. Too bad the weather was so bad this year, usually I like hanging out before and after.