I was nervous about this race as it's described as an "extreme trail race" and I had never even run a trail race before, let alone a marathon. I ended up upgrading to the 50K the night before.

Packet Pickup was smooth. Like I said, I was originally signed up for a marathon but the volunteers made the transition so simple! There were no sighs or eye rolls at having extra tasks to do.

There was camping available right by the start/finish but I ended up staying at the resort that night. I do not recommend getting a room the the resort at all. The area where we were staying was like a dormitory. There were parties going on throughout the night and when I finally called the front desk, they didn't resolve the problem. It turns out it was the volunteers & they spent the rest of the party complaining about the person who called them in. With their door wide open. Strike one for volunteers.

Race start ~ they have plenty of porta potties. Yay!!! The start is typical of any ultras: slow moving, cowbells and plenty of joking around as we tried to calm our nerves. Maybe just mine.
The climb started right away. The elevation was so steep & narrow that we were in single file line. At one point, a deer shot right past us.
The climb seemed relentless but the views are amazing. We went through some rocky areas (literally) so you really had to watch some footing. Once you get to the top, it takes your breath away. This is also where we all stop to take selfies.
The descent was refreshing until we hit the meadows. The heat was beating down on us as the shade was now gone. This was my least favorite part of the course.
Then it was time to get back up and over. Even more difficult the second time around.

It was the best racing experience I'd ever had. Yes, it challenged me beyond what I thought I was capable of but when you have other runners & volunteers who are there to joke with you and encourage you, it makes for an awesome race.

It's a challenge but I know this can be done!