The first half of the run went well. I was conservative knowing the hardest part was in back half. It started getting very hot by the time I hit the beast on the crown. The beast is so steep you really have to use both hands and feet to climb. My quads were really trashed. More so than last year. I gashed a toe two weeks ago so I didn't get much training in for September. The race was taken over by a new company. The trails were loosely groomed in sections and the trail markings were terrible. I added another mile or so to the race because I missed a turn. I was not the only one. I ran into people all day who were lost.

Hills and more hills. Needed more trail miles.

Found my camping chair under a tree and sat down. Took a shower and then headed out. No post race food or drinks were supplied.


Lack of trail training and any training at all leading up to the race due to injury.


I have a love hate relationship with this race. It's hot and very difficult. Every year I swear off of it but come back. With the new race owners, I may be more inclined to skip. It was not managed well at all.