I’ve been looking forward to this race for a while. As I’ve written about before, I’m really starting to like trail running and I’m constantly on the lookout for local ones which fit into my road racing schedule.​

I discovered this race and decided that, although it was only two weeks after a difficult half marathon, I would run it — given the nature of trail running.​

Generally, finishing times for trail runs are slower than road race times. In addition, walking isn’t really frowned upon in trail racing. There are spots on some trails where running is too difficult or dangerous. I wasn’t too concerned with pace or finishing times, so went in with no expectations.

I arrived really early to the venue since I was unfamiliar with the area and a last-minute email advised participants to arrive early or carpool due to limited parking. ​

The packet pickup was simple and effective. After I picked up my shirt, bib, and swag I ran an easy 1-mile warm-up run and took in a gel.​

I didn’t take my phone on the course, so I don’t have any pics. This was a true trail run — sheer drop-offs, extreme ups and downs, creek crossings, switchbacks, and VERY technical terrain.​ The humidity was so high under the canopy of trees that everyone was soaked and gasping for deeper breaths.

I stayed with a pack of three with what would be the second overall female finisher and won third in my 10 year age group.​

I really liked the challenges this race presented, and I will definitely try to fit it in my race schedule for next year. The organizers are focused on reducing their environmental footprint, and the swag reflected that.

In addition to our race shirt and finisher’s medal, we were given a reusable collapsible cup and a Buff with the race’s logo on it.