I ran the 2018 Leadville Trail Marathon after I ran my first 50K and while training for my first 50 miler. I knew the combination of elevation gain (over 6,000 feet) and altitude (the race starts at 9,600 feet above sea level and runners climb to 13,200 before descending back to the start) but I live at 5,300 feet above sea level and believed that would help me deal with the elevation. I was wrong. Once you are above 11,000 feet, the air is just "thin" and your lungs will tell you about it. Fortunately, when you hit that height, you're also getting to some f the most beautiful areas of the course and that will make it all seem worth it. The climb to the top of Mosquito Pass comes at miles 10-13.5. Most of the elevation gain in the race occurs during these miles, which consists of about a million switchbacks and some extremely rocky trail. Reaching the summit rewards you with a beautiful view that truly does feel like you're on top of the world. Enjoy it, because the trip back down is almost as challenging as the climb, especially if you're like me and your legs are on fire when you get to the turn-around. All-in-all, this race delivers beautiful scenery, a challenging course, and a rewarding sense of accomplishment when you've finished. Also, this race is a Leadville 100 qualifier. I am not fast enough to earn a spot in the 100 for placing well in the race, but I was lucky enough to be drawn via lottery for an entry to the Leadville 100. Lottery winners have a choice of the current year (2018) or the next year (2019). I needed the time to train, so I will see you at the Leadville 100 in 2019.