A tale of Two Races.

A few of the races I have done also have kids fun runs. Up to now Maya has been very much against participating in such events. However, I mentioned this week of the possibility of her running in the 5peaks children's challenge, and surprisingly she seemed keen. Originally she wanted to run the advertised 1km run in her flip flops... but I manged to talk her out of it and into some sensible Barbie running shoes. She defied popular choice of wearing sports wear and instead opted for a skirt ensemble. Maya was so excited getting her number, getting her race kit, and lining up. She wasn't really interested in a warm up and stretch, but really I do not think it affected her performance. She did so great running, not stopping once all with a smile on her face. The course wasn't so much 1km as 250metres, but fun was had by all. To reward her efforts she was presented with a rice krispie and a certificate. She plans on bring her race number and sharing the details of her victorious run at show and tell this week.

After the excitement of Maya's race, I geared up to run the Enduro 8.7k course. As I had run 5 peak course at Horseshoe Valley last year, it being a ski hill and all- I figured although it was a different geographic location, it would be technically similar. Was I wrong!!!
Very technical course which took full advantage of said ski hill. It also took full advantage of melting snow to create MUD. Pictured are my shoes- my free shoes. The ones I have to show off at the run clinic...to the washing machine for them. The hose did nothing.
After learning my lesson last year I correctly chose to go at the front of the second wave. I was running with people at my level. I push them and they push me, few passed and I passed only a few. We headed straight up the ski hill to wide switch backs which essentially were mud slip and slides. I managed to go down only once and caught myself with one muddy hand. By a km into the race I was mud from the knees down. We then settled into single track mostly uphill rolling hills, mud pits, rocky large boulder sections, MTN biking boardwalks, and very steep uphills. THEN i did the second loop for the enduro course. Was hot, should have worn my singlet. Found the first loop hard and painful, second fun, after I had gotten into a groove. It was way more demanding then I thought it would be, and because of that stupid mud I have blisters on both of my feet.
Coming into the race I was thinking 42ish min for the trail run. After I started it, guessed 45min, after the second loop I figured I would be happy to finish under 55min. Honestly I have never walked more in a race in my life. And to think I did this instead of the half marathon because I thought it would less taxing on my STILL infected with cold virus body. I'm using an inhaler now!!!
By the numbers...
Overall- 64/258
Female- 7/94
Age Cat 3/36- Yes a metal!
Time- 51:53
Pace- 6:03- You have no idea how this number hurts me.