My plan was to hit one aid station and run 10 minute miles. I have virtually no experience on snow shoes so I had almost no idea what to expect. I run about 8:50/mile on the trail in the winter for 9 miles so I figured I'd add some time with the shoes on. I ran pretty good the first 4 or 5 miles then the guts broke loose and I had to hit the porta potty. According to my garmin I was doing good, but dying while I ran the two mile to hit the porta potty at the half way point. Thankfully I did great after I got rid of whatever was in me making my stomach hurt. One tip....Don't try to go number 2 in a small porta potty with your snow shoes still on. It's tough.
After the potty incedent. I felt great and cought 4 other runners to finish.

Pace a little better. I went out a little quick, but overall I had no idea what I was getting myself into.

Lay on the floor of the NMU Dome. I was smoked. I drank some chicken noodle broth after the race and that was great.


Lack of experience.


This is not on a lot of people's to do lists, but if you have an oppertunity to do it you should. The Noque is known for it's cross country ski trails, but they are great for snowshoeing also. The race was hard, but that is why we do these things for the challenge. The volunteers were first class. I got a cool bib, snow hat, and cow bell for my efforts which was about right for what I deserve......