First Trail Race

This is before we got to the mountain

After the race--ready for a long nap

I had my first trail racing experience a few Saturdays ago at Paris Mountain State Park (I cancelled my home internet, so it makes blogging a little more difficult). Travis and I had a fun time running and climbing and walking and resting along the 15k course. It was a pretty small race (under 200 participants), so we didn't get crowded on the trails. The weather was warm, but the shady trees took care of that problem. I loved most of the trail. I think it was the "mountain" part of the trail that I didn't love. We had about a mile of really steep mountain climbing. We had both done that part of the course before, so we were prepared. But it still kicked us in the rear. About half way through, we decided to take John "The Penguin" Bingham's advice and get our money's worth on the trail. We took almost the entire time the course was open to finish. It was wonderful. The best part, as always, was running through the finish line. The race director was even there to congratulate us and shake our hands.

I really am liking the trail running. My hamstrings, knees, and ankles were having issues for a while there after all the marathons, but lots of rest and easy trail running took care of that. I have started a training plan for a half marathon. I haven't signed up for a race, but I like having a schedule to follow to keep me in shape. The schedule actually ends on Saturday, August 1. That happens to be the day I'm getting married! I don't think I can reasonably fit it in that morning, but I'm thinking of enlisting some of my family members and friends to run an unofficial half marathon with me the morning before... Any takers??