The 5K does a somewhat annoying loop around the long grassed horse field (7-8"), so lumpy. There are 2 horse jumps in this field that are avoidable, so I avoided them. The grass was kicking my butt and making my lower legs hurt. I ended up walking some and getting passed by everyone and their brother, it seemed. I could still hear some people behind me so I knew I wasn't last, but I didn't want to turn around to see how many/few.

Finally we got out of the thick grass onto a little downhill, then some sandy dirt double track. Here I picked off quite a few of the people who passed me. As we were running around the edge of a very large horse corral, I saw a deer running full bore toward the fence and the path where runners were traveling between that corral and another. I yelled, "Be careful, it will jump!", picturing a very ugly human/deer collision. Thankfully the deer either had good timing or racers got lucky because jumped the fence, crossed the path, and jumped the other fence just as there was a decent break in runners. Whew!! It was pretty awesome to see.

Took a downhill to the creek and saw - SASQUATCH!! (mile 1.35, I looked, LOL) gave him/her a high 5 and kept moving. Did some yo-yo-ing with various racers depending on the terrain. Got passed because I was being cautious on the first creek crossing (mid-shin deep on me), the bottom was all irregular sized/shaped slippery rocks and I didn't want to trip, slip or fall.

Ran some more grassy areas, hills, mixed terrain and surfaces, encountered more horse jumps throughout the course. Not counting the first two in the field, I think there were 5-7 others that there was no choice but to go over. Various heights, styles, and materials.

Second creek crossing was about mid-thigh on me and the bottom was more forgiving than the other crossing but I still didn't want to fall, especially since a photographer was there! Up a hill and into another meadow (sigh) and another Sasquatch sighting! I strongly considered getting a selfie with it, but opted for another high five instead. I now regret that decision! I mean, it's not every day one sees Sasquatch.

Through the woods, over two of the horse jumps, and down a hill (grass, again) to the finish. Like the goofball I am, I whinnied and reared back and moved my 'hooves' when nearing the last jump since EFP and Alan were standing there watching for me. Really pushed hard to the finish, vowing to not let anyone pass me in the waning yards of the race - mission accomplished!

Get a selfie with Sasquatch. Run faster. Bring water.

Watched and waited for Kaye to finish, then headed over for dry shoes, socks, beer and food. I can never eat right away so I started with a beer, Goose Island Natural Villain Lager, I really enjoyed it. Eventually got to the point where I ate some pork BBQ sans roll.

Kaye and Heide both won AG awards. Heide is a total bad azz, she's 80!! EFP was close, 4th. Nothing for Alan or me. Racing with friends is always more fun!


Fighting a head cold. Being overweight. Should've ran with a bit of water. Tall grass. ;)


Great free food and beer at the end for athletes, great RD with an excellent sense of humor, free goodies, Sasquatch! I'll do this race again.