Texas Trail Endurance Run - 50K - Run

My plan was to do three 50k races this season as "test" races for the build towards Rocky Raccoon 100 in Feb. This was race #2. Race #1 was about a month ago, also at Huntsville State Park. Overall, this race showed that my training and changes made since November are going well. I was almost 30-minutes fast than last month, and felt much better, both during and after the races. I did have some stomach issues and took two outhouse breaks, but I think those issues were related to Friday night's late dinner rather than any run choices.

Weather was chilly (upper 30s) and that made clothing selection a little tricky. Started off a little too warm, and made some changes after the 10k loop. Also, no gels at the aid stations, so I went with boiled potatoes most of the race. Good choice! I do need to walk when I eat them though.....I'm not coordinated enough to run, chew, and breathe all at the same time.

In November, I wore the Brooks Cascadia trail shoes, and my feet were very sore after the 50k. I went ahead and bought a pair of Hoka trail shoes and that made a dramatic improvement. Could be an extra month of long runs helped out too, but I think the shoes made a big difference. I went with wool socks due to the temps, and did find a blister on the end of one tow on Saturday night. It looks fierce, but doesn't hurt at all. Need to get that figured out before RR!

All in all, I feel on track for Feb. Anxious to see how Bandera goes next month!

Should have gone a little lighter on the clothes from the get-go!

This race seemed better organized and better staffed than in past years. All in all, a great day at the park!