SAR Wild Run

This is by far one of my favorite local events!  It is also one of the most challenging for me.  Last year I was suffering from a hairline fracture on my right baby toe.  I was happy to be injury free for this years race, but still struggled up the hill on the final mile. 

One of the things I like the most about this event is the variety of events offered.  There is a 10k and 5k as well as 2 mile option and a 16 mile bike loop.  If you are so inclined, you can make it a double and do both a 10k/5k and then the bike loop.  The timing is set up so people who want to both run and ride can, something I love although I have yet to utilize. 

I have been told the 10k path is easier than the 5k path, but I have yet to find this out for myself.  I was able to have a course PR this year and cut 2 1/2 minutes off my time.  Was also proud of myself for making it all the way up the sandy/dirt hill before having to take a break.  Also know I lost a few minutes when I stopped around mile 1 to help a youngster who was frustrated with herself for tripping (she was bleeding from her palm and elbow).  She was struggling to make it after the EMT bandaged her up, but was determined to not walk.  Happy to say she plowed through the uphill and I soon lost sight of her.

I had tried different fuel for this race, something I know is not smart.  While I know it was not the whole cause of my sluggishness the last mile, I know I will be back next year with even more determination to "KILL" the sandy mountain climb.

 At the start line before the race.  Didn't realize my glasses were dorked up until just now. 

 

 The bling awaiting all finishers, something new from last year.

 With my new friend, Roger Sebert, who is a former Western States 100 finisher.  This was one of his first 5k's since having surgery (wish I could remember who it was for).

 

 One the down hill portion of the first mile of the race.  Feeling good and glad I brought along my sleeve holders and was able to work on my farmer tan.

 View of the lake around mile 2 just after the aide station and before heading up the sandy hillside to make our way towards the finish line.

 At the beginning of the climb.  We had to scramble over fallen trees in multiple locations!

 This was one of the best marked races of all time.  They had plenty of these signs leading up to the race to make sure you didn't get lost on the way to the start line.

 My swag!  Loved the addition of a shirt (got a bandana last year) and medal.  They also gave us face masks, which I thought a little odd at first, but quickly remembered why as the race started and we were pounding down the hillside knocking up much dust!

Remembered to put on my www.dirtygirlgators.com for this race!  Felt like I was getting some strange looks from others, especially with my www.kttape.com sticking out.  Only part of my feet that were dirty were the toes, which I am sure came from the uphill climb.  I remember my feet were filthy last year after this one, and there was a small sandbox in my shoes! 

Look forward to returning next year, thinking already about my plan to cut even more time of my course record!!  Happy running!