Aravapai Trail Series - Mesquite Canyon Half Marathon - March 12, 2011

This was a completely different half-marathon race than the first two I ran. There were many miles going up switchbacks mountains and I had to realize I wasn't going for a best time in this race but a great adventure instead. Once I started running up the switchbacks and looked up and noticed that every runner I could see was walking, I made peace with the fact that I wasn't going to be able to run the entire thing. I've run lots of hills but was not prepared for the steep climb on this one and it didn't look like anyone was. So I ran when I could, watched my footing so I didn't fall off a cliff and had the time of my life. I love the comradery between runners at these events but especially this one when it wasn't so much of a race but enduring to the end. Running down the mountain was a rush like no other (why would anyone do drugs?). The desert isn't the most gorgeous place on earth but it has a special beauty and I saw plenty of it this day.

Lana, Sheryl, Rhonda

I ran the race with a bad shoulder, it got a bit hot and the climb was tough but I had an amazing time. I was happy to check the White Tank Mountains off my list of trails I've run. Total time ended up being 2hours: 24 minutes so I still beat my goal of 2.5 hours. Avg pace: 10:55 - Not good for a race but not bad for walking up the switchbacks.