So much fun ‘Running with the Bears‘ this weekend! I don’t think have or ever will experience a race with more support and heart for their cause and their runners.
This is a small race in Greenville, CA. AKA Timbuktu. My friend Michelle, flew down from WA to cheer me on and asked , “so HOW did you find out about this race?”
I was nervous running this one because I did not run two weeks in July due to travel, then another 10 days due to a knee issue. I had just hoped to finish, but knew if the knee thing sprung up, I’d have to bow out.
This is an intentionally small race and I was able to meet up with other runners from my run club. One asked me if I had done any training for the elevation. Ummmm, elevation? Come to find out we are running at 3700-4000′!
The half runs a loop, plus a small out and back, along a valley floor of cow pasture and wetland. It is all paved country roads.
They had about 6 or 7 aid stations for the half. Each aid station had a theme and most were in costumes. And the fuel choices were awesome! Fresh fruit, energy bites, candy, a little bit of everything.
Ran the first three miles non stop, then met up with a woman from Winters running 3/1 intervals. We clicked and ran together from miles 3-9. Then, the elevation and heat (this was the hottest race they have ever had) kicked in and I had trouble keeping my heart rate down.
So, I had to run-walk as needed (a lot) miles 9-13. I ran/walked with a woman from Citrus Heights. I met some great people on this run. This was my worst time but only by three minutes, so I am really happy with that.
After, Michelle and I drove to a swimming hole called Indian Falls. There was a short, steep, dirt road to get to the parking. Michelle had to drive us out since I’m no good at country driving in my little Mini. There was also a short hike down to the swimming hole. It was lovely and the soak in the cold water felt so good! We attended the race’s BBQ hoedown after and got to connect with my runner friends.
Michelle and I have registered for next years 10k!
I managed to catch up with two of my friends (Heather and Cassie) from my run club for a minute around mile eight, before they took off!
A little fun with my run partner from Winters!
The swimming hole we went to after the race. (The photos uploaded out of order and I could not re-arrange them…)
The post race BBQ that night. Michelle is with me, as well as the woman I ran with from miles 3-9…
MRTT sole sister group shot before race…
Michelle running me in on the final stretch!
