Thrill In The Hills (Page 2)

With all the traffic, that second loop was dicey.  I just ran through the puddles after the first couple of miles after watching people fall trying to avoid the water.  Only bad thing was the mudhole by the 13 mile marker. Almost lost a kneecap in that thing.

Fun day - we lucked out that the rain stopped.

Well, my hat is definitely off to you and all of the other certifiable nuts that ran the full marathon. While Saturday was the most fun I have had at a race in a while, one lap was just enough for me - I was very happy to make that right hand turn into the finish chute! I thought the course was awesome despite because of the conditions - the mud and water was a hoot. I look forward to getting back in the woods again soon. Congratulations to everyone that came out for the race - I hope you had as much fun as we did!

Race report for anyone interested:

http://beginnertriathlete.com/discussion/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=478901

It WAS really fun, but I was also glad to turn in at the 13 mile marker too.  : )  Nat finished 5th woman for the full because she is tough like that.

I was one of those avoiding the puddles, much to the amusement of the aid station #1 volunteers when the tree I used for support to cross the bog fell over across the path.  And, it was all for naught, because I fell right in that last puddle and finished covered in mud. Ha!

Here is my report.

Congratulations on finishing with the style and grace befitting of the conditions - very much enjoyed reading the RR.

congratulations on the finish and AG podium spot - going under 4 hours on that course was obviously a tall order based on the conditions. All of you guys deserve a medal just for heading out on the second loop. Way to stick with it to the finish.

I was expecting full out misery but I really did enjoy myself. And was grateful that it wasn't also a downpour.

 I definitely spent the first loop trying to avoid the mud. I knew I had plenty of opportunity to get dirty. I am just so glad I made it through that race without hurting myself. I too had wanted to run under 4 and without the mud I am pretty sure I would have. Oh well. Normally I do not enjoy running once I get close to that 4 hour mark but I was having a pretty nice time running in the mud and listening to Pandora. I found it oddly relaxing. Apologies to anyone who had to hear me sing on the second loop.

I really think that is a great course. I had forgotten how twisty it was and I definitely feel those turns on my legs today!

You know Xterra -Fort Yargo on April 27th is pretty much on that course.  You think doing a half or full marathon on those trails is fun, how bout an off-road triathlon?  It's definately a different experience than following the white line and pounding the pavement.