I decided to run this race about as hard as I thought I could and ended up doing well but it was certainly more challenging that I thought it was going to be and the finish times reflect it. There are some longish sections between aid that can take a lot of time and this year (2010) it got really hot so it is a good idea to bring plenty of capacity to carry your own fluids just like race management suggests. During the last six miles of the race it was very hot out and I was carrying a hydration pack and two water bottles. I probably passed five people all of whom were carrying only one bottle. I was able to drink from the pack and keep myself somewhat cool with the two hand held bottles.

Heat and terrain.


All in all a very nice race in a very nice place by people who really care. This was only it's second year and I suspect it will keep getting better. However, this race is a challenge and something a road runner out to try the trails would probably freak out about.