First Leg: TCR series

Last Sunday I finished the first leg of the triple crown running series I signed myself up for during the winter months. I am just now recovering. My legs have never been that sore. I have some serious training to do before the Pikes Peak Ascent in August.

This first run was a 10 mile jog through the Garden of the Gods park in Colorado Springs. The scenery was spectacular and the camaraderie among runners was compelling.

I was honestly a bit nervous before this run because it was the first race ever in my life and I didn't know what to expect. I had visions of running off course and not making it back to the finish line... Or needing to find a bathroom due to drinking too much water before the race... Or encountering a rattle snake along the trail. Sheesh! The things I worry about. Anyway, these worries were quickly squashed.

When I saw all of the fellow runners gathered at the starting line I realized there is no way I'm getting lost and if I do, I won't be alone! And with all those feet pounding the pavement the chances of a snake taking a snooze and being startled by a random runner is probably slim. (Hey - it makes sense in my mind.) And I guess if I have to pee, no one will notice. (Kidding!)

I ended up finishing with a time of 1:45:28 which was 45 minutes under my cut-off time to qualify for the Pikes Peak Ascent race. So, I am well on my way. I know I could have done better, but a touch of plantar facilities had me gimping along for the last couple miles. I was honestly just happy to see that finish line!

Now, on to my next race in July. A 12K run through Bear Creek Park. The starting elevation is 6,170' and at the turn around point you'll have reached a gain of 1,000' in 3.7 miles. That should be fun!

Someone at work asked me why I'm doing this. My response: "It is great training for hunting season which is only a week after the Pikes Peak Ascent." Duh.