tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48981610997475803112024-02-07T03:29:03.220-08:00The Journey of a Thousand MilesMariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.comBlogger79125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-7563753953000759802019-01-29T07:52:00.001-08:002019-01-29T07:52:59.698-08:00New Website & BlogRace reports and updates will now be posted on my <a href="http://www.mariadalzotrd.com/" target="_blank">new website</a>!<div>
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-90757095496015644772018-08-06T16:25:00.002-07:002018-08-06T17:17:12.569-07:00Volcanic 50: Racing Around Mt. St. Helens<div class="MsoNormal">
“There is no way I am racing this in two weeks!” I scream
ahead in frustration to Tad as I am crawling like a baby monkey over a vast
boulder field. Fast forward two weeks, and I have crossed the finish line of <a href="https://gobeyondracing.com/races/volcanic-50/" target="_blank">Go Beyond Racing’s Volcanic 50km</a> with a swollen butt cheek from a hornet (my
signature sting location), black and blue palms, a busted hip, and the most
incredible feeling that I did something that was so far out of my comfort zone
despite the voices of anxiety trying to talk me out of it.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Here is how I got there:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Two weeks before the Volcanic 50, a “rugged, remote and
challenging 50K+ course” circumnavigating Mt St Helens with 7,400 ft of
elevation gain and loss, Tad and I drove to Cougar to run the course as a
preview knowing this race could trigger all manner of anxiety for me (boulder
fields, drop offs, scree fields, being alone, getting lost in some remote canyon,
etc.) The weather man was warning us of severe temperatures topping off in the
mid-90’s and cautioned people to stay indoors. Not what you want to hear when
you know you are going to be completely exposed with little water for hours. To
make a (very) long day short, we got lost in the first three miles, stopped a
total of 5 times at every water source to filter water for half an hour and
still ran out, cooked like wienies, and barely made it back to the car in 12.5
hours. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I couldn’t imagine doing this all over again in two weeks. But
something kept nagging at me despite the anxiety and doubt. It would be a
completely different experience having a marked course, support from aid
stations and the company of 250+ other racers. I really wanted to run this race
to prove to myself that I could. How many times in your life do you get to run
around an active volcano, over lava and pumice fields, cross rivers, and run
through a blast zone? Not many. So, I decide to attempt it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We left Bellingham Friday morning around 10:00am and arrived
at the Cougar RV campground around 5:00pm after hellish traffic. Immediately after
pulling into the campground, I had a bad feeling. I just did not get a good
vibe from this place and felt a sense of unease. We met the owners and they
were very nice people. They showed us to our campsite and it was right beside
the RV owners who reside there. They had nice private tent spots in the back,
but the owner said there were hornets’ nests and I might not want that before
my race. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Let’s just say it was like staying on set of a Twin Peaks
episode. Very unique characters walking around and doing tasks like searching
for something (no idea what) in the bushes or tinkering with their RV. While we
were eating dinner, this extremely malnourished cat with a pink collar crawled
over to us by using only it’s front two legs. His back legs drug on the ground
it a splits formation. It was one of the most upsetting things I have ever
seen. Tad had to give me a pep-talk before I was convinced to use the bathroom
which gives me the heebie jeebies just thinking about it. At least it’s quiet,
I said aloud. Then, almost on cue, a caravan of Latinos pulled in around
10:00pm and continued to scream, shout, and laugh until 4:00am, when our alarms
went off. Did I mention there was no wi-fi?<o:p></o:p></div>
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We survived the night and got out of there as quickly as
possible to head to the race start at Marble Mountain Sno-Park. The volunteers of
this race were nothing short of spectacular. The check-in process had three
lines: one for a mandatory gear check, one to get a ticket stub with race number,
and one to receive your bib. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Before sending us off, Todd and Renee reminded us of bees,
gave us courtesy instructions for the rope climbs and assured us that we were
going to experience the best water of our lives at The Spring aid station
around mile 20.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<u>Start to Butte Camp (6 miles)<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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The first couple miles climb gradually on an access trail to
the Loowit trail. Once we popped out on the Loowit trail we were smacked in the
face with gorgeous views. I could hear a lot of “oohs” as “aahs” as we started
up the first climb through the forest. Around mile 3, we were in a conga line
of sorts and up ahead somebody yells, “BEES!!!” Suddenly, panic ensues. I
stopped for a second and asked the guy behind me what we should do. *Cue all
the Forrest Gump references* He responded, “Run!” and I said “Okay!” and off we
went when something jumped up and bit me directly in the buttocks. It hurt, but
I figured if I was going to get stung, the ass was a good place to get it. Plus,
I have a <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2014/08/cutthroat-classic-scones-stings-scenes.html" target="_blank">running history of getting stung in the butt.</a> The poor guy in front of
me had bees stuck in the liner of his shorts and got stung multiple times in
the groin.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Once we recovered from that trauma, we hit the lava fields. This
was the section we were on when I told Tad I wasn’t running this race. I knew
that my timid approach from boulder to boulder would get me passed by many
fearless technical runners. I climbed as aggressively as I could considering
that we were only at mile 4 of 32, but I still got passed by many men and 4 women.
Once the ground became runnable again, I surged to catch up to the group being
led by my good friend Jeff Fisher. Before the race I was hoping that we could run
together, but I knew that he is more skilled then me on all the boulders. It worked
out that I got out ahead of him early so that I could get a head start on the
lava field knowing that he would catch me there.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<u>Butte Camp to Toutle River (6 miles)<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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I ran in the back of a small pack of people wearing La
Sportiva’s as calmly as I could, but I still felt like we were running way too
aggressive for this early on. “What did I get myself into?” I started thinking.
I felt like I was in way over my head. I chatted as much as I could to try to
get out of my own head. Jeff, eventual women’s winner Cassi Knight and I stayed
together all the way around the edges of the steep canyons and down the 1,600-foot
drop through dense forest to the Toutle River crossing. I am pretty quick through
the aid station, so I thought I would get a head start on the rope climb down
and back up again. <u><o:p></o:p></u></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKeL2ogb9Dodbuqz7vHKkoko_cuPzC5TRhX_0wI2WZUPDpIQPgoUsdSVaCzmpkIuPKDq0Yb-yJ-asEfT4hQIpLFCHnqQwPwR-OvjFKUB8lWdwVXJwNBC1ZQX9H3wULthnkiSv5xjxVBgo/s1600/IMG_4405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKeL2ogb9Dodbuqz7vHKkoko_cuPzC5TRhX_0wI2WZUPDpIQPgoUsdSVaCzmpkIuPKDq0Yb-yJ-asEfT4hQIpLFCHnqQwPwR-OvjFKUB8lWdwVXJwNBC1ZQX9H3wULthnkiSv5xjxVBgo/s320/IMG_4405.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cautiously crossing the scree field.</td></tr>
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<u>Toutle River to the Spring (8 miles)<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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We were only allowed on the rope one at a time, so once you
got to the top, you had to yell down “FREE!” so the person at the bottom could
start. It was stressful having people wait on me to get up the rope, so I went
as fast as I could. Let me remind you that this is mile 13 of 32. I needed to
calm the F down. Once I got to the top of the rope, Cassi was just gone, and I
was alone which was bad news for me because the next section was the part I was
most afraid of – the scree field switch-back. I made it to the opening of the field
and hesitated. I knew Tad was up top to take pictures, but I still froze there
and waited until the next man came up behind me to cross. He was going slower
than I would have liked and eventually stopped half-way through the field to
take in the views! How dare he when he’s supposed to be helping me across this
thing! Then Tad starts screaming at me to keep moving so I eventually make it
across and up over this thing. By this time the lead women have minutes on me,
but the trail flattens out and I can finally run. The only problem is we must run
right on the edge of another cliff. It’s a very short section, but again, enough
to make me stop and wait on the person behind me. At this point I am racing the
demons in my head and want to just make this a fun experience. Luckily that’s
just what happened.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Jeff caught up shortly and then we weaved in and out of
canyons and rolled through the expanse of the blast zone enjoying the views,
smelling the musk scent of elk, and telling stories, namely how the impact of
the blast moved Spirit Lake to the location it is now.<o:p></o:p></div>
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As I was running, I went to drink from my full water bottle
and suddenly, I feel this splash of water in my face. I don’t know how it
happened, but my bottle burst just like a water balloon. I lost all the water I
had, plus my bottle, but luckily the aid station was 3 miles away and I had a
spare bottle in my pack.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Todd and Renee were not joking when they said how good the
water was going to be at the Spring. Safe to drink directly from the source, it
was the most satisfying liquid that ever touched my lips. Not to mention the
aid station volunteers were dressed up like astronauts (because it looked like
we were on the moon) and just the sweetest people ever.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Focus, focus, focus!</td></tr>
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<u>The Spring to Ape Canyon (4 miles)<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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Between the Spring and Ape Canyon is the highest point on
the course, Windy Pass, which sits at 4,950 feet. I caught up to 3 men hiking
the climb and then we all carefully made our way down the other side which was
the craziest part of the course because there was literally no trail. Just
extremely loose, unstable sand and rock. Everyone was just sliding down in plumes
of dust. I slipped on my butt and used my hands to slide across instead of down.
We plopped out on the bottom, dusted ourselves off, took rocks out of shoes and
then were off again.<o:p></o:p></div>
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All the way to Ape Canyon the trail was flat, compact, and
runnable. In Brian’s words, “just what the doctor ordered!” I cruised with
Brian Eckerling all the way to Ape Canyon aid station. We were so excited to
finally be running, I tripped on a pebble and went down hard on my left knee
and right hip. It stunned me for a second as it was pretty painful, but there
was no blood that I could see so we kept going. It took about a mile before my
knee loosened up. Two days later I am just bruised, luckily no serious injury
occurred.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last mile!</td></tr>
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<u>Ape Canyon to Finish (8 miles)<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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At the aid station, I heard several of the runners saying
how it was all downhill from here. I knew better and they figured out pretty
quickly how wrong they were. The course profile is deceiving as we go in and
out of countless canyons that really test your patience and resolve. I felt the
strongest through this section and wasn’t bothered this time by the forever
canyons. Jeff ate a couple berries on the side of the trail and took off like
superman. I should have eaten some berries. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I ran the last 4 miles mostly alone. I knew we had one more
climb and boulder field to cross before getting back on Trail 244 to the finish
so I put my map up on my watch just in case as I am terrible at following the
orange cones. Tad appeared just before getting to the June Lake Trail and told
me Jeff was just ahead. I caught up to Jeff only because he was cramping and as
soon as we hit the lava field, he was gone again. When I finally got off the
boulders I had a hard time getting back on the connector trail. I got off
course twice but got myself back on track using my watch and footsteps in the
sand. I was so happy to be on the final 2 miles I ran as fast as I could. My
last full mile was 6:48.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Full results <a href="https://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=49940#" target="_blank">here</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cassi, Elizabeth and me with our awesome Mountain Shop prizes.</td></tr>
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I crossed the finish line so happy and so proud of myself. I
didn’t care that I didn’t win or that I was so far behind. I had just run the
longest race of my life around this freaking volcano on some of the toughest
terrain. Sure, I wanted to win. Sure, I wanted to come close to the record. And
the more I am removed from the race the more the immediate post-race satisfaction
dissipates, and the criticism and self-judgement set in. I am so proud of
myself that I started and finished this race, but disappointed how much my
anxiety gets in the way of performing to my full potential. I am faced with a decision
of whether I should only run races that suit me, or should I run races that
challenge me and push me out of my comfort zone where I may not come out on
top? I am deciding on the latter because, in my mind, I did come out on top. I
won in so many ways on Saturday, how can I be disappointed? It isn’t an easy
decision given the demands of sponsorship, the pressure to perform competitively,
social media, etc. All of which I know is in my head as my sponsors are the
best people and there is never the hint of pressure and my social media
followers are a wonderful, supportive group. However, just like my anxiety,
knowing it is all in my head doesn’t make it one bit less real so I must continually
remind myself of the positives despite the occasional whisper in my head that I
lost by half an hour. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Mt St Helens may not have seen the last of me!<o:p></o:p></div>
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If you made it this far in my report, thank you. I am
learning that the longer the race is, the more stories and lessons there are to
tell.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Congratulations to new course record holder, Cassi Knight and
runner-up Elizabeth Helland on two spectacular performances.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thank you to race directors Todd and Renee for creating this
event and bringing some of the best humans together to share this incredible landscape.
The volunteers and medical team were the most hands-on crew I have experienced;
I am grateful for their time and expertise in helping me get around that
mountain. Big thanks to the<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MountainShop/" target="_blank"> Mountain Shop</a> for the awesome water filter!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thank you to <a href="http://www.jennihulburt.com/" target="_blank">Jenni Hulburt</a> of Wild Wellness and doTERRA
oils. I was so stressed that night of camping, I’m glad I had a lavender-scented
pillow to stick my face in and calm down.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thank you, as always, to the usual crew who make my life possible:
La Sportiva, Trail Butter, Native Eyewear, Prime Massage, Align Chiropractic,
Terrain Gym, and Lily Trotters.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thank you to YOU for reading and to everyone who has left a
comment or encouraging word – you fill my heart.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheers to you from Jeff and me.</td></tr>
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-44275537161316676522018-07-08T09:12:00.000-07:002018-07-08T12:33:18.944-07:00Marathon du Mont Blanc: Take Two<br />
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After a peaceful week staying at our dear friends’ home in
Les Crosets, Switerzerland, we arrived in Chamonix during the hustle and bustle
of a Friday night. The apartment we rented, while in an ideal location, was
situated on a major thoroughfare and very noisy until the wee hours of the night.
There was a youth hostel right down the road and so we would hear parades of
young people returning from partying between 1 and 4 in the morning. <o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRXEpVNdBrRE7077euoErnTTH6dYcT5hXmpV_vDgzCj2YMjSpSxkJHnhyphenhyphenPyX1p_zIoguLAOsWAoFGn9GIKqdTGeUcbPeZ9WyB4Dw-24C3X13BhpQS1U9cQ16saT0J03JJ7ui3n_6EBcK0/s1600/7M2A5211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRXEpVNdBrRE7077euoErnTTH6dYcT5hXmpV_vDgzCj2YMjSpSxkJHnhyphenhyphenPyX1p_zIoguLAOsWAoFGn9GIKqdTGeUcbPeZ9WyB4Dw-24C3X13BhpQS1U9cQ16saT0J03JJ7ui3n_6EBcK0/s320/7M2A5211.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our temporary backyard in Les Crosets, Switzerland.</td></tr>
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This year, the marathon is part of <a href="https://www.goldentrailseries.com/" target="_blank">Salomon’s Golden TrailSeries</a>, so there was a lot of media hype around the race. My original goal
coming off last year was a top-10 finish, but after seeing all the incredible
athletes who were signed up, we knew that was going to be nearly impossible. The
main goal was to try to pr<a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2017/07/europe-trip-2017-marathon-du-mont-blanc.html" target="_blank">event what went wrong last year</a> from happening again
this year.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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The temperatures were very mild for our entire trip to
Europe - upper 60’s to low 70’s - until the day of the race, where temperatures
soared to around 86. I knew that running in the heat was going to be a
challenge for me because I never run in those temperatures in the PNW, let
alone at altitude, which seems to make the sun hotter and more draining.</div>
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We don’t know what caused me to crash so hard at mile 20
last year, but we tried our best to come up with reasons and address each of
them this year. Here is a list of some changes:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgTN_JO9b3va7jGiavg4XSZZK2KY8EtZijrqHKvsosNgjFDHuva-Xzj9UKHeMPfJ1RPyWHHt8n0BIpCihLER6_UaFKpCJQtVu15DmERGMHmdiSiYb5IIXm5GQSvEbwhmszY_j9753clA/s1600/IMG_20180628_184507739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgTN_JO9b3va7jGiavg4XSZZK2KY8EtZijrqHKvsosNgjFDHuva-Xzj9UKHeMPfJ1RPyWHHt8n0BIpCihLER6_UaFKpCJQtVu15DmERGMHmdiSiYb5IIXm5GQSvEbwhmszY_j9753clA/s320/IMG_20180628_184507739.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More cheese and bread, please!</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>When I returned from Europe last year, I noticed
that I lost a bit of weight. I think it was a combination of eating less just because
we didn’t have as much food in the apartment as we do at home and dehydration. So,
this year I made sure to eat just as much as I typically do and did not
hesitate to put salt on everything while drinking plenty. If anything, I was
going to be well-fueled for this race! One thing I love about Chamonix is the
accessibility to a variety of foods and cuisines at an affordable price. We ate
everything from curries to sushi, only cooking a couple of nights, which was a
nice vacation from doing the dishes. </div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Last year we did a big 20 miler two weeks out
from the race (and soon after arriving from the tiring, jet lag trip over); we cut
it to 14 miles this year.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->All I had with me during the race last year was
GU and it was not going down well. I think it was because I was too dehydrated.
In my pack this year, I had variety: GU, <a href="https://trailbutter.com/" target="_blank">single-serve Trail Butter</a>, shot blocks
and Skratch labs in one of my bottles.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->I did a true taper – not just a week before. My
mileage was significantly lower 2 weeks before the race.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYQgOA4ODbpvrnbddJr-BSzmk9Eh-_Q_KDa95OS2m7svlPERYF1kU9XcnLV5v-2Ig5IhaxhQenFWS_mA3yoz7r4MzH4tYCkylIRR0qFtL1b-cwHDWNIpOASf1ChHGEDTkJ6rqeIGukQ68/s1600/IMG_20180618_103424661-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYQgOA4ODbpvrnbddJr-BSzmk9Eh-_Q_KDa95OS2m7svlPERYF1kU9XcnLV5v-2Ig5IhaxhQenFWS_mA3yoz7r4MzH4tYCkylIRR0qFtL1b-cwHDWNIpOASf1ChHGEDTkJ6rqeIGukQ68/s320/IMG_20180618_103424661-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Checking out the course two weeks before the race.</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->After seeing that the weather was going to be
very warm, I went out and bought a white hat and an extra handheld to use during
the part of the race where I ran out last year.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>I took off my necklace before I raced this year,
because last year it got wrapped around the top of my water bottle preventing me
from using it properly.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Last year I was running in 5<sup>th</sup> early
in the race and felt comfortable, though that means one thing running a race
like the Chuckanut 50k and something completely different with this beast of a
course. Because of this, we decided to go out much slower than last year. (That
was the plan anyway, though I did not execute this one properly.)<o:p></o:p></div>
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It was already warm outside at 6:15 in the morning when I
stepped out to do a short warm up. As soon as I opened our door, I see fellow
American Pat Smyth warming up. When I approached the start line, I scanned to
find a familiar face amongst the jumble of languages being spoken and the loud
music blasting over the speakers. I soon found Magda Boulet, Alex Varner and
Sage Canaday. I love seeing my USA teammates. I don’t know what they feel, but
I feel such a bond with them even though I am only friends with some via social
media. There is something about being so far from home that brings us together
in solidarity. <o:p></o:p></div>
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After the announcer made us all do the wave, the backwards
countdown from 10 in French began and, with the sound of Hell’s Bells, we were
off. I mentioned that I wanted to start out slower this year and what felt like
slower ended up being 15-20 seconds a mile faster for the first 4 miles. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I was in 15<sup>th</sup> early during this section and Anne
Marie Madden passed me after a very controlled start as she worked her way up
into the top 10.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNyE8tk8CjkCc2O7SAp4tmZAatNJaPxnATrAlEEtgnWhhPa3RH2y-fr-t8_o0x1vlRvtQjn-ZLk8QUvfljV-Pot320NTOjeEC1E3QaAZk_trfulyakEu9zHaYzNXQn6GRQzUjcPGzSKnM/s1600/IMG_3857-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNyE8tk8CjkCc2O7SAp4tmZAatNJaPxnATrAlEEtgnWhhPa3RH2y-fr-t8_o0x1vlRvtQjn-ZLk8QUvfljV-Pot320NTOjeEC1E3QaAZk_trfulyakEu9zHaYzNXQn6GRQzUjcPGzSKnM/s320/IMG_3857-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making my way to the top of Possette.</td></tr>
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Tad spent all week mapping out his spectating spots so I
knew I would see him at several places to get insight on where I stood among
the field and receive reassurance and encouragement. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Magda came into sight and I finally caught up to her at the
Vallorcine aid station (mile 11ish). I started the climb up to Possette with
her. As I started to pull away I focused on Emma Clayton of Great Britian who
was in front of me, but because I stopped at the water station, she got away
from me on the ridge. Going over the ridge I was in 12<sup>th</sup> place and thinking
maybe a top ten was possible as surely some of the leaders would fade on the toughest
part of the race yet to come. (As it turns out, I was wrong, these are some
tough women!) There had been a significant amount of snow on Col des Possette
two week prior, and come race day, all of it had melted; I couldn’t believe it.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><br />
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The Marathon du Mont Blanc is a very special race. Not just
because of the stunning scenery or the competition, but also because the
spectators and volunteers are kind, encouraging and passionate. Our first names
and country flags were on the race bibs, so I had a thousand fans on course
screaming, "'allez, allez, Maria!" A moment that sticks out to me is
when I was up on Aiguillette de Possette and Tad was running behind me with the
camera, I started to doubt myself and asked him - thinking no one was around –
to tell me I could do this. As soon as I popped up over a rock, a man and women
were perched above, and the man said in a heavy French accent, "of course
you can do this, Maria!" The cool thing is Tad got it on camera. </div>
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To hear
the encounter and see some snippets of the race, part one and two are on my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mariadalzot/?hl=en" target="_blank">IGTVchannel (@mariadalzot).</a> </div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLO9fNWEVw0Enry4lNzKuHKByBP0ofn0Al42Ow7XTHpn9_pvuDlTTT0e-JbLm4orJzdmVcZULhFKKZy2eZ1K96VTUEW1NEt0wk8c9L8Ewy9WnWDFP6bZHBHg2CFmp0cWndFw3EeG_zT5Q/s1600/IMG_3895.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1091" data-original-width="1600" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLO9fNWEVw0Enry4lNzKuHKByBP0ofn0Al42Ow7XTHpn9_pvuDlTTT0e-JbLm4orJzdmVcZULhFKKZy2eZ1K96VTUEW1NEt0wk8c9L8Ewy9WnWDFP6bZHBHg2CFmp0cWndFw3EeG_zT5Q/s320/IMG_3895.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teamwork makes the dream work.</td></tr>
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Coming off the ridge and dropping 2500 ft down the technical
descent into Le Tour, I was passed by a young woman from Nepal who flew over
this technical section and then by ultrarunner Jo Meek of Great Britain. With
the drop in elevation, I soon got uncomfortably hot. I started running off
trail to fountains in people’s backyards to cool off. I know this caused me a
lot of time, but I just held the memory of last year’s breakdown in my head, so
I stopped at every water stop because I was so afraid of running out of water
or getting dehydrated. One thing I need to work on is my aid station protocol.
I would make the Western States crews cringe. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Tad came into the aid station tent at Le Tour while I was
trying to fill up my water bottles but got yelled at and told to leave. So, I
had to fill up my bottles on my own and then go out of the tent where he was
able to give me my extra bottle and pour water on my head.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I felt really refreshed afterwards and approached the part
of the course where I lost my marbles last year, the overpass. Once crossing
the road, we start a 1,000-foot technical climb immediately followed by a 1,000-foot
technical descent. There were photographer and videographers all over this section
which helped me keep my power hiking honest. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Once I made it to the Flegere aid station, only 5km separated
me from the finish, but this is a very exposed and rocky section with a steady
incline all the way to the finish. It is hard to describe just how hard this
section is, but suffice it to say that if Megan Kimmel describes it as tough,
that’s saying something. It really seemed to take forever. My watch was running
long, and I was already at 26.5, but not yet at the finish. After crossing
three snow fields, finally the finish shoot came into view! I mustered the
energy to get a couple of high-fives coming in and then crossed the line so relieved
to be done. They immediately checked our packs to make sure we had the required
gear before letting us exit the finish area.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie4TKoUPKZJJbk5PoX0yNmxqs3q1ZDUVTVIfcSB4YTLqPsBOg6wWpX2zg1SI7xQgNHB8hzWN0PTPNFeeCSQ4tHtNCbCJeWgXgk9pk6U8-lCgixTuDU38sKuhwD8kAjO2KazgVhn_8VS2g/s1600/7M2A6675-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie4TKoUPKZJJbk5PoX0yNmxqs3q1ZDUVTVIfcSB4YTLqPsBOg6wWpX2zg1SI7xQgNHB8hzWN0PTPNFeeCSQ4tHtNCbCJeWgXgk9pk6U8-lCgixTuDU38sKuhwD8kAjO2KazgVhn_8VS2g/s320/7M2A6675-2.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We got dressed for our last night in magical Chamonix.</td></tr>
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I met Tad, but he wasn’t sure where exactly I finished. He thought
I had faded considerably and counted me in 20<sup>th</sup> place, but he didn’t
know that some women on the course were part of the Duo race that started the
previous night. On the way back to the house, I looked up results to see that I
was 15<sup>th</sup> woman. Yes! We were stoked. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Anne Marie finished ahead of me in 12<sup>th</sup> and Magda
behind me in 16<sup>th</sup> (closing 5 minutes or so on me the last 5k!). Full results <a href="http://www.montblancmarathon.net/images/mbmarathon/doc_pdf/2018/classement_42km_au_10718.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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I felt incredibly nauseas the rest of the day and it continued
the following morning. My appetite finally came back, just in time for our
final meal in Chamonix before heading back to Paris en route home.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I don’t know yet if I will return to Mont Blanc for the
marathon next year. Third time is the charm, right? We know so much about the
course now and learn so much each time, it’s hard to not give it another try.
But, damn, is it hard!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-ZQ8aVxg_ROVrS7xt2750cwoK6em6fAGU8esS-S5L3DH7pjKOS1oiDFyw3P2fJsMkLkByKbCouwVcZW-ZyDa4PeswB2Z5ru4UaUMDpLxUTAON1uYJqLXhAe74S-jtU4iO8krGq53M08/s1600/IMG_20180703_172455203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-ZQ8aVxg_ROVrS7xt2750cwoK6em6fAGU8esS-S5L3DH7pjKOS1oiDFyw3P2fJsMkLkByKbCouwVcZW-ZyDa4PeswB2Z5ru4UaUMDpLxUTAON1uYJqLXhAe74S-jtU4iO8krGq53M08/s320/IMG_20180703_172455203.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Touristing.</td></tr>
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We drove to Paris two days after the race to be tourists for
24 hours. In an 8-mile run, we saw Jardins du Tracadero, Eiffel Tower, Arc de
Triomphe, Champs-Elysees, Jardins des Champs-Elysees, Place de Concorde,
Lourve, Cathedrale Notre-Dame, Musee d'Orsay, Seine, Esplanade des
Invalides, and Palais Bourbon. Basically, a whiplash of all of Paris in 90
minutes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The same day, we drove to Versailles and toured the palace and
gardens which was extremely cool. Crowded and hot, but cool. According to the <a href="http://en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/palace" target="_blank">museum site</a>, Versailles is one of the greatest achievements in French 17th century
art. Since the French Revolution forced Louis XVI to leave Versailles for Paris
in 1789, it would never again be a royal residence. Instead, it became the
Museum of the History of France in 1837. The rooms of the Palace were then
devoted to housing new collections of paintings and sculptures representing
great figures and important events that had marked the History of France.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG535ki-QpHpzYXQMD_rdhlGeLtbzIErKl3tNi71rkH6wZbehPwTaKFoZwlbtvKIcUOxbKN-RGjPD2am2wiWzMWZcK2V8A27Y1nT6K-KkRxVEncm9Z2KM_QR2Az2nYNB99WYQI-VGVE2Q/s1600/IMG_3979.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG535ki-QpHpzYXQMD_rdhlGeLtbzIErKl3tNi71rkH6wZbehPwTaKFoZwlbtvKIcUOxbKN-RGjPD2am2wiWzMWZcK2V8A27Y1nT6K-KkRxVEncm9Z2KM_QR2Az2nYNB99WYQI-VGVE2Q/s320/IMG_3979.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trying not to get hit by traffic at the Arc de Triomphe.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Unsurprisingly, I felt run-down and woke up the next morning
with a sore throat and head cold which made traveling home even more uncomfortable.
But I can’t complain too much because this is my first cold in two years and
what do you expect after a hard effort and surrounded by crowds of people.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thank you for La Sportiva, PRiME Bellingham, Align
Chiropractic, Terrain Gyn, Trail Butter, Ona Treats, Lily Trotter’s Compression, and Native
Eyewear for all your support, expertise, nutrition, recovery, and injury
prevention leading up to the race. I am beyond grateful for having a running
career that has had such longevity and such incredible support along the way. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thank you to everyone who sent me a message of encouragement
before the race and a congratulations after the race – your love was truly
felt.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt85T8k2N_P_2glnzz1Pam4AXLXMMPqi31ZfrZZUnHqdu97Z4NnKkLyk1AaX0JKMMVS16guFy_QFy4VgrQFY_c6bt_nNbcIaN2wKM-lZKaETQlpwYPy-TxHevvcIvqv2nzHqoJb20kUVg/s1600/IMG_3988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt85T8k2N_P_2glnzz1Pam4AXLXMMPqi31ZfrZZUnHqdu97Z4NnKkLyk1AaX0JKMMVS16guFy_QFy4VgrQFY_c6bt_nNbcIaN2wKM-lZKaETQlpwYPy-TxHevvcIvqv2nzHqoJb20kUVg/s320/IMG_3988.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lap around the Lourve.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Thank you to Colleen and Erwin Martens for graciously giving
us their home to live in for a week prior to going to Chamonix. We are overwhelmed
with your hospitality!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thank you to iRunFar for the shout out in <a href="https://www.irunfar.com/2018/07/this-week-in-running-july-2-2018.html" target="_blank">This Week in Running</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To see more of Tad’s pictures and video footage, you can
check out <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mariadalzot/?hl=en" target="_blank">my Instagram feed</a> and IG TV @mariadalzot.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<br />Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-29994426405659591572018-06-11T08:20:00.001-07:002018-06-11T08:26:32.505-07:00Fragrance Lake Half Marathon: Summer Edition<br />
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The <a href="https://www.destinationtrailrun.com/home.html" target="_blank">Destination Trail</a> <a href="http://www.bellinghamtrail.com/p/fragrance-lake-10k20k.html" target="_blank">Fragrance Lake Half Marathon</a> traditionally
takes place mid-February in the throes of winter. However, due to an incredibly
tragic plane accident that occurred on course days before the race, the race
was cancelled and rescheduled for June 9<sup>th</sup>. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fragrance Lake typically has the potential to be chilly,
muddy, icy, and/or snowy with many downed trees to navigate around, over or under.
With this May being the driest month on record in Bellingham, the trails were
in prime condition for a course PR despite the day’s previous rain showers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyZ97K7nCIz8aiCFHYO1zpfS8pmp0BjP2N4iNbf8ZhwfzHBuNAU7WkhGnPlJYm6Vj5unmjyqPWeLL8k21GJRIBdWMoo7_5cMjrRS0YpvGoWJyjDwcBm3QmYx-DE6kG5pMfFUNWyExkFPk/s1600/7M2A4525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyZ97K7nCIz8aiCFHYO1zpfS8pmp0BjP2N4iNbf8ZhwfzHBuNAU7WkhGnPlJYm6Vj5unmjyqPWeLL8k21GJRIBdWMoo7_5cMjrRS0YpvGoWJyjDwcBm3QmYx-DE6kG5pMfFUNWyExkFPk/s320/7M2A4525.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Damn roots.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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However, because the Marathon du Mont Blanc is three weeks
away, we made the decision to train through the race which meant running on
fatigued legs. The race fell at the end of a hard three weeks of training, and
my body could tell. The previous Saturday, I did a 4 ½ hour run with a lot of
climbing that totally wiped me out. The next day we were trying to take a photo
before starting my run and I tripped and almost fell on my face… three times… while
walking. We took that as a pretty clear sign to take the day off. Regardless of
the results of Fragrance, I hoped that my efforts over the past month will serve
me well at Mont Blanc. (To read about my experience last year, read <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2017/07/europe-trip-2017-marathon-du-mont-blanc.html" target="_blank">here</a>.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNODBre3_GWCJ3ZCmCpSq7SwgzErwyCDvnoK4a1BJQHBeW81WYJhTkbz1QS1aBmyL5M3CWZz1HjUJ-YYQ8cd8mvvWvRDfuX_vP2uDG5huF351AGDGqOvxNRBm_q0aCkevvlmeH5ZQx6IE/s1600/7M2A4734.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNODBre3_GWCJ3ZCmCpSq7SwgzErwyCDvnoK4a1BJQHBeW81WYJhTkbz1QS1aBmyL5M3CWZz1HjUJ-YYQ8cd8mvvWvRDfuX_vP2uDG5huF351AGDGqOvxNRBm_q0aCkevvlmeH5ZQx6IE/s320/7M2A4734.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking for the men ahead.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
The Fragrance Lake ½ course went the long way around the
lake this year like in 2016. Otherwise, everything remained the same: still the
same 3,300 feet of climbing in the first 7 miles, then a trip across the Ridge,
concluding with spiraling down Fragrance Lake Trail.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Without David Laney present to take the start out screaming
fast, the first mile was relatively calm, and I kept the lead men in site
before catching up on the first climb to Two Dollar. I shared a couple of miles
with Paul Sage from Club Northwest, but once he pulled off to take the finish
for the simultaneous 10km, I was on my own. At one point on Lost Lake trail, I
saw a glimpse of the leader, Matthew Logan, but my climbing legs were screaming
“not today!” so I trudged on with only my past splits to use as a reference. I
knew two miles in it was going to be near impossible to run my best time today,
but that didn’t stop me from pushing my hardest.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dybUSwjQ1ctH3c0K_PwcqMy2xbJHwI6DkVtE1egr-_wZrC41mRD9Rg4bYRnCqJhCm7ndQ2KZThdYf0AJAZ3uA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Some video footage from the top of the big climb and the start of the Ridge.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Coming off the Ridge and on to Cleator Road for the final
bump up, Tad said that a woman was only about a minute behind me as I entered
the Ridge and I better push it from here to the end. Aw man! Not the news I
wanted to hear today. My legs were burning so bad on any slight incline. I gritted
my teeth and ran down Fragrance Lake Trail like a crazy person. Luckily, my
loud breathing warned hikers far in advance and they kindly stepped to the side,
and my downhill legs were surprisingly awesome.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I bottomed out at Fragrance Lake Trail, Tad was there
and asked me if I passed the lead guy. I knew that I hadn’t, so I wasn’t sure
what he was talking about. I sprinted to the finish and embarrassingly missed
the finish shoot so I was spinning my wheels in the gravel trying to quickly make
the turn and cross the finish line. Eighteen seconds later, Matt came through.
He missed reading a course sign and unfortunately took a wrong turn. Had he not,
he would have gotten me by a couple minutes. It was Stacey Cleveland from BC
who was hot on my heels, finishing just 3 minutes back; she ran so strong!<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwxLQC3ltbGSlliqQg1xRiZ3cIVXFn2jGfEnX846yd8ju7vTi2poGvg3oRjrVZ_slpKIZTODMWrhh8AW6H_f2i5DzRSmExUUmxNnumfhqS-47VcIKms-FJIyXugmmyrr4dr7lD386F7oU/s1600/7M2A4884.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwxLQC3ltbGSlliqQg1xRiZ3cIVXFn2jGfEnX846yd8ju7vTi2poGvg3oRjrVZ_slpKIZTODMWrhh8AW6H_f2i5DzRSmExUUmxNnumfhqS-47VcIKms-FJIyXugmmyrr4dr7lD386F7oU/s320/7M2A4884.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I got lucky today, that's for sure!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Full results <a href="https://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=51646" target="_blank">here</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is my fourth year in a row running the race and my
slowest time yet. Of course, that doesn’t sit well, but I know that had I
backed off on mileage and rested the results would have reflected that. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyfJF8sU8Sg9ttlS3-9hzBVsOzesWDBAFHkzZrwZODLu4keal4wIzb1JEGn8yjITDPsoF5xrcAqrQ08R-EVhi2dnvesU2N4VhKREbHM5ioyjX7B45uTYJqAmBsrrqltCZtYzez6uNWpR0/s1600/IMG_20180609_113903.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyfJF8sU8Sg9ttlS3-9hzBVsOzesWDBAFHkzZrwZODLu4keal4wIzb1JEGn8yjITDPsoF5xrcAqrQ08R-EVhi2dnvesU2N4VhKREbHM5ioyjX7B45uTYJqAmBsrrqltCZtYzez6uNWpR0/s320/IMG_20180609_113903.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Girl Power</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thank you to the whole Destination Trail Team who orchestrated
a flawless event, despite having to fight with course vandalizers the previous
day. The weather man called for rain and cloudy skies, but he couldn’t have
been more wrong. We were treated with perfect running weather: mid-50’s and
sunny. Also perfect for hanging out, eating, and drinking beer while we cheered
on our fellow friends and racers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We leave for Europe this week, but before we take off, a
quick thank you to some of the people who have helped me prepare, kept me
healthy, motivated, inspired and who enrich my life on a daily basis:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tad Davis<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kerry Gustafson<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chris Lockwood<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tonia Boze<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quinn Carrasco<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bellingham Distance Project ladies and gents<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jenn Love<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jeff Fisher<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jeff Boggess<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Casey Szesze<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Au revoir et à bientôt!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwEfFZ8qH86KwW7_0wjosqpMK2qmJWgsru20TLJW-Oawi5U6GfRLLWGCZ4EBmC9jzIgDLNw0uq2cSUrWsdbazDBHlzFWWRURLqTJVOFUaws09WXJNgjrDviVqBUMJu0V09DE5U_IOIOt8/s1600/7M2A4769.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwEfFZ8qH86KwW7_0wjosqpMK2qmJWgsru20TLJW-Oawi5U6GfRLLWGCZ4EBmC9jzIgDLNw0uq2cSUrWsdbazDBHlzFWWRURLqTJVOFUaws09WXJNgjrDviVqBUMJu0V09DE5U_IOIOt8/s320/7M2A4769.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bracing myself for the final push.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-48353692308903765982018-05-15T07:57:00.000-07:002018-05-15T16:35:19.001-07:00Smith Rock Ascent 50k<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The last 6 miles of the <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2018/03/chuckanut-50k-take-two.html" target="_blank">Chuckanut 50k </a>I told myself I never had
to run again if I didn’t want to. My left leg was so tight I had to stop
countless times to stretch throughout the race (starting at mile 5!) and every
mile from the start of the race felt like a struggle. Two years in a row, running
that far was not a fun experience and so I thought maybe the 50k distance was
not for me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But as time goes on, we runners tend to forget these things;
the pain, the suffering, the soreness. Instead, we remember the camaraderie,
the adventure, overcoming adversity and this fuels our fire. So just two months
later, there I was contemplating running the <a href="https://gobeyondracing.com/races/smith-rock-ascent/" target="_blank">Smith Rock Ascent 50km</a>, hosted by
Go Beyond Racing. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRrlsfoSnOJes2yOVc3MImSgJMfS0wchQ0pw7Jayzb-oADs8uHK7UBNxEOGp2aODfvuRzfs5TRNE2teVJ_fngHjiXvnYyZe66H78VgiODhJcY2RdDYgWQr54e2nIjIOHn5xnDFYEQ61xY/s1600/_DSC9587.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRrlsfoSnOJes2yOVc3MImSgJMfS0wchQ0pw7Jayzb-oADs8uHK7UBNxEOGp2aODfvuRzfs5TRNE2teVJ_fngHjiXvnYyZe66H78VgiODhJcY2RdDYgWQr54e2nIjIOHn5xnDFYEQ61xY/s320/_DSC9587.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These are a few of my favorite things. PC: Jeff Fisher</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tad and I were on the fence about traveling all the way to
Terre Bonne, OR (the town closest to Smith Rock), but when I got a coincidental
message from Jenn Love from the <a href="https://www.mountainshop.net/" target="_blank">Mountain Shop</a> in Portland asking if I would
like to come down and lead a La Sportiva demo run sometime, synergy was in play
and our minds were made up.<br />
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOrTtisRkgU8F7g3QpZNboHa79PrDQGf2hiXq1oueZbRn9N0uT1D_GokTufqpfYh0KXnMJXUzspmjbZ2mb9K-tCJEbjiRzvhlA9N4kO_PYIjDZo0iIBG0eJaElNQ5F2sHj3MOKWUkecU/s1600/_DSC9618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="921" data-original-width="1600" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOrTtisRkgU8F7g3QpZNboHa79PrDQGf2hiXq1oueZbRn9N0uT1D_GokTufqpfYh0KXnMJXUzspmjbZ2mb9K-tCJEbjiRzvhlA9N4kO_PYIjDZo0iIBG0eJaElNQ5F2sHj3MOKWUkecU/s320/_DSC9618.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail friends. PC: Jeff Fisher</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My training since Chuckanut has been about consistency
rather than intensity and even though my workouts are not as rigid or
aggressive as they used to be, I feel myself getting in shape. Everyday runs
are a little bit snappier, I am recovering well, and I have no – knock on wood –
pain or tightness in my butt (an ongoing problem). I felt strong three weeks
ago at the <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2018/04/yakima-skyline-rim-take-three.html" target="_blank">Yakima Skyline Rim 25k</a> and came within 40 seconds of my course record
so that was a good sign as well. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The 50k distance is still so unknown to me. Unlike the
sub-ultra distance, I never make goals of trying to win or place because I lack
the confidence. It’s more a battle between me and my anxiety, and the longer I
am out there, the more opportunity for the voices in my head to talk. The goal
is always not to listen. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSLiGrzR2P545NUEkebsbp_oL7ThaYWl9Xq0j_CWrm9O9CzULFdR7Xn88R8v3wPMrwGoViWVEtB6VjlCEfQHLdr2M7kAa2-CfdFzvwv9N6KF8G5QiVNBGHDNMiR1BG5CAa9T57vdaKEQ/s1600/_DSC9632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSLiGrzR2P545NUEkebsbp_oL7ThaYWl9Xq0j_CWrm9O9CzULFdR7Xn88R8v3wPMrwGoViWVEtB6VjlCEfQHLdr2M7kAa2-CfdFzvwv9N6KF8G5QiVNBGHDNMiR1BG5CAa9T57vdaKEQ/s320/_DSC9632.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crusin' through Forest Park. PC: Jeff Fisher </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I have never been to Smith Rock, so I didn’t know the course
other than studying the map and elevation profile. Another factor coming in to
play is central Oregon can get toasty this time of year, so I was concerned
about the heat. If it hits 70 in Bellingham it’s a big deal. But we put the
course map into my watch and there’s nothing we can do about the weather except
run smart and keep up on hydration.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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We left for Portland on Thursday morning to meet up with the
folks at Mountain Shop to share some miles with the local trail running
community and demo the<a href="https://www.sportiva.com/akasha-womens.html" target="_blank"> La Sportiva Akasha’s</a>. It was my first time running in
Forest Park and I was so impressed. Beautiful buttery green and lush trails
that you could really fly on if you wanted to. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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We drove to Smith Rock State Park the next morning and got
there at about noon. So did a gazillion gnats. Swarms of them. There were no
warning signs just tiny pellets hitting you in the face and mouth like a summer
rain. My shake-out jog was basically me flailing my arms and complaining with
my mouth covered. My goal became to finish the race before the bugs came out.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkv6exJx_92OamCSTYptqAPuW-W4BRWuNESooP3UvwQy0cWK9wXdAIKwA9V3u5a-n_ve59G0XP8HW8eXS1OwDUNO1FV19-Ahk6YkXar_ZT4U4pwB9TWuzb2uQ0fHPaDVRgQBc27iZCY3c/s1600/IMG_3577.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkv6exJx_92OamCSTYptqAPuW-W4BRWuNESooP3UvwQy0cWK9wXdAIKwA9V3u5a-n_ve59G0XP8HW8eXS1OwDUNO1FV19-Ahk6YkXar_ZT4U4pwB9TWuzb2uQ0fHPaDVRgQBc27iZCY3c/s320/IMG_3577.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trying to out-run the bugs.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I knew from Ultra Signup that the competition would be stiff
with fellow Washingtonian and friend, Paige Patillo, on the starting line, as
well as Tori Tyler, who I raced at the <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2014/10/usatf-trail-half-marathon-national.html" target="_blank">2014 Trail Half Marathon Championships</a>.
Because I get so nervous I was hoping to work together with these ladies and
enjoy their company for as long as possible.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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As we started the five mile loop around the park, Paige and
I calmly navigated our way along the undulating path until the start of the
first climb where I began to pull ahead. Paige is a boss at downhill running as
I experienced firsthand from our first meeting where she used her natural speed
to run me down in the final mile descent, so I knew she would be back with me
soon. After the first climb came some flat miles and then a significant
downhill where Paige caught back up, just as I had hoped. We came through the
first aid station (7ish miles) together, but then started climbing again and I
latched on to the man in front of me. We rolled along until he had to stop to
pee at the bottom of a sandy hill. I kept going and turned to see if anyone was
coming with me, but the chase pack all started to power-hike the hill. I really
didn’t feel as though I needed to hike, but then I was thinking they knew
something I didn’t. I decided to just keep my pace, nice and controlled. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUh0dTAdT6PtmB8g4r-d4FqxYLXRjj8NMP-YpZcD991Af3lrIiGhwM8AeBKQMhrc4KyV6r1KL6SlygKQHDmr-3tjK0xlhc65O2VcS5zlqCvvYgJMMlQliPbRWUF7XEvFNdbn-rZQGKDI0/s1600/7M2A2746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUh0dTAdT6PtmB8g4r-d4FqxYLXRjj8NMP-YpZcD991Af3lrIiGhwM8AeBKQMhrc4KyV6r1KL6SlygKQHDmr-3tjK0xlhc65O2VcS5zlqCvvYgJMMlQliPbRWUF7XEvFNdbn-rZQGKDI0/s320/7M2A2746.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Riley and I working together.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
At the second aid station (13ish miles) I started running
with Maks, but had to let him go as he was not pushing as hard on the climbs. Again,
I hesitated, but not too far up ahead was Riley. Riley was a pleasure to run
with. We chatted about how these trails remind us of Helena, Montana where he
is from and how the <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2015/05/hurtin-in-helena.html" target="_blank">Don’t Fence Me In Trail Run </a>was going on at the same time. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Mile 12 seemed to be taking forever and finally, after 20
minutes, I realized that I accidentally stopped my watch and had never restarted
it. Riley was kind enough to announce every mile until I pulled away with about
10 miles to go. We were clicking off the sub 7 minute miles so easily I really
couldn’t believe it. I kept waiting for my legs to fatigue or my energy level
to dip or for the anxiety to rear its ugly head. But nothing ever happened.
This was his first ultra and he crushed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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After I crossed the road at mile 24 and prepared for the
final ascent, I caught up to Levi who was being challenged by some inner
demons. I gave him an unsolicited pep talk and then we worked together to push
it up to the final aid station where Yassine and his Wy’east Wolfpack crew were
there rocking and ready for us to run through the “tunnel of love.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Sk3ilB3f0m5To3i6vgEwBXolwTOp10MY3-_ypdePUJ8wC26fdewDWVcMCPVr47NMsTuFg9MzU1p3NeQnBgiwbd4TEG48A3LGiEAm-fRP0qP5USAOhrBhiTJ4RNQ5OqiuP3uX7sGQS_o/s1600/7M2A2805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Sk3ilB3f0m5To3i6vgEwBXolwTOp10MY3-_ypdePUJ8wC26fdewDWVcMCPVr47NMsTuFg9MzU1p3NeQnBgiwbd4TEG48A3LGiEAm-fRP0qP5USAOhrBhiTJ4RNQ5OqiuP3uX7sGQS_o/s320/7M2A2805.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feeling effortless.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I kicked it into another gear and started catching up to the
15 milers finishing. I enjoyed the momentum of passing the runners and cheering
them along, but I got stuck behind a guy who had two ear buds in. I was
screaming “excuse me!” and “pardon me!” and “SIR!!!” I contemplated hurling
myself in the brush and going around that way, but then he finally heard me and
moved to the side. Why didn’t I tap him? Because I am scarred for life from the
time I did just that to a lady on the trail in the middle of a race. You can read
about that craziness <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2014/03/hillbilly-half-second-stop-in-sportiva.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVYpgLAC1EO_3LTDgBALxKeOsQlqcAw_fXHJSNc7Htc4VD21L1zR5MkM80gkJrQiGXzEqQFrTlE62LB7Ma3gy7_YYUkgWi_HhAyW1DDfZd461g5m0-2t-GVhMmD8Hv0uG5Fek45jZWGSo/s1600/7M2A2825.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVYpgLAC1EO_3LTDgBALxKeOsQlqcAw_fXHJSNc7Htc4VD21L1zR5MkM80gkJrQiGXzEqQFrTlE62LB7Ma3gy7_YYUkgWi_HhAyW1DDfZd461g5m0-2t-GVhMmD8Hv0uG5Fek45jZWGSo/s320/7M2A2825.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jazz hands!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I knew that about 3 miles to the finish we came screaming
down a service road so when I looked to my right and saw a road below while the
trail I was on was going left I questioned if I was going the right direction
and somehow got turned around. I ran backwards until I could ask the next 15-mile
runner if we were heading to the road and once he confirmed I took off again. The
last 200 meters is up a very steep paved side walk before making the turn into
the finish chute. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I felt strong and smooth and loved every mile. I know this
is going to sound annoying, but I think I could have done 10 more on that day
or I could have run much faster. I am feeling proud of my first ultra win and 8<sup>th</sup>
place overall in the second fastest course time.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Full results<a href="http://results.enduranceevolution.com/Results.aspx?CId=16662&RId=2084&EId=1" target="_blank"> here</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaw2HKFyPiT10SwFFuX3I4xghYOFyTv78DmW_D1uEKpNBeeGtyrVsOIa6d6tfibND0HktdgJUQtGATSSuaTEF_BNQYIf25AwB-ZCgg56HX6IxVwE-5DRQeYpkGtmJC-NNhw5vlSTtw5JQ/s1600/IMG_20180512_134030347_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaw2HKFyPiT10SwFFuX3I4xghYOFyTv78DmW_D1uEKpNBeeGtyrVsOIa6d6tfibND0HktdgJUQtGATSSuaTEF_BNQYIf25AwB-ZCgg56HX6IxVwE-5DRQeYpkGtmJC-NNhw5vlSTtw5JQ/s320/IMG_20180512_134030347_HDR.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With RD's Todd and Renee.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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After Chuckanut I told you that even my hair hurt. After
Smith Rock, I have one toe that looks like it has been through the blender and
that’s it. Even though I feel good, Tad is still making me take an easy week
(40ish miles) to make sure I am good to go for one final push before we leave
for the Marathon du Mont Blanc in Chamonix, France. I can’t believe we will be
leaving next month; time is going by so quickly!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you to Todd and Renee from <a href="https://gobeyondracing.com/" target="_blank">Go Beyond Ra</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://gobeyondracing.com/" target="_blank">cing</a>. <o:p></o:p>This win was very special to me and I am so grateful for the awesome print, rock, and pint glasses to always remember it</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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Thank you to Aid Stations 1&4, 2 and 3 for being so efficient
and bringing so much joy, energy, and entertainment to each runner. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUk1781Xy78v7C5A8PASmOrd1BfLCHL5LnCt9mmVjKVF3RJCH5MdBMAtgUCmX6c8Ysbvs2zzocDXZojYKaaVbr3V0teJ_y75EGoPxO6Gulx6sXUhyphenhyphen6-_gK4hUS6s_7CWN4oMznwGGngBQ/s1600/IMG_20180512_132839135_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUk1781Xy78v7C5A8PASmOrd1BfLCHL5LnCt9mmVjKVF3RJCH5MdBMAtgUCmX6c8Ysbvs2zzocDXZojYKaaVbr3V0teJ_y75EGoPxO6Gulx6sXUhyphenhyphen6-_gK4hUS6s_7CWN4oMznwGGngBQ/s320/IMG_20180512_132839135_HDR.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Get in my belly!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
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Can we just talk about <a href="http://longboardlouies.com/" target="_blank">Longboard Louie’s</a> burritos for a
minute? SO good and satisfying. Thank you for this fabulous treat and perfect
recovery fuel. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Thank you to Maks, Riley and Levi for your company and
encouragement. You made the race so fun. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thank you to iRunFar for the shout-out in <a href="https://www.irunfar.com/category/columns/this-week-in-running" target="_blank">TWIR</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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An extra-special congratulation for TEAM USA Women and Men
who made us all proud representing the U.S. at the Trail World Championship in
Spain this weekend. What a show of teamwork, grit, determination, and passion. Read
more about their amazing performances<a href="https://trailrunner.com/trail-news/u-s-womens-team-takes-bronze-at-the-trail-world-championship/" target="_blank"> here</a>. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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A continued thank you to my team of constant love and support: Tad, <a href="https://www.sportiva.com/" target="_blank">La Sportiv</a>a, <a href="https://trailbutter.com/" target="_blank">Trail Butter</a>, <a href="https://www.terraingym.com/" target="_blank">Terrain Gym</a>, <a href="https://primebellingham.com/" target="_blank">Prime Massage</a>, <a href="http://alignchiropracticbellingham.com/" target="_blank">Align Chiropractic</a> and <a href="https://www.lilytrotters.com/" target="_blank">Lily Trotters Compression</a>.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB6coaOKQm-ZT4ATLxuutX8Vx5nneXwXtkSVKe0tWZPWbp-1KfYE7zmvSRiFiLlwb4bIZRMgnQ2C3inEILHiMMBN9qLsX4fDiI2ncKRJdzYg-q2CFP0wSw9BxVBkTg5UBuBz0GezTv_Tg/s1600/7M2A3606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB6coaOKQm-ZT4ATLxuutX8Vx5nneXwXtkSVKe0tWZPWbp-1KfYE7zmvSRiFiLlwb4bIZRMgnQ2C3inEILHiMMBN9qLsX4fDiI2ncKRJdzYg-q2CFP0wSw9BxVBkTg5UBuBz0GezTv_Tg/s640/7M2A3606.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Until next time, Smith Rock,</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-68888054458823030182018-04-26T08:33:00.000-07:002018-04-26T08:33:38.515-07:00Yakima Skyline Rim: Take Three<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
By now I think everyone knows how
much I love Rainshadow Running’s <a href="http://www.rainshadowrunning.com/yakima-skyline-25k.html" target="_blank">Yakima Skyline Rim 25km</a>. Every April, I look
forward to heading over Snoqualmie pass where it is 38 degrees and snowing and descending
the other side into sun and 60 degrees. It is quite magical, really. Plus, the
drastic change in scenery – the lack of trees, massive rolling hills and clouds
of dirt and dust – is a welcome change after feeling so soggy after a
particularly wet and rainy PNW winter.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The 25km is on Sunday so we left
Bellingham early Saturday morning in the hope of catching the finish of the
50km. We made it to the finish line two minutes before Mike Wolfe came in with
nobody in sight. We took our lunch and hiked up the trail a bit to cheer and
take pictures. We got to see the veterans, my Trail Butter teammate Yassine Diboun
and Seven Hill’s Phil Kochick, as well as my La Sportiva teammate Kaytlyn
Gerbin who ran with focus and determination to crush the course record. All the
50k-ers deserve a hearty “Well done!” after navigating 10,500 feet of climbing
in extremely windy conditions. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgex18mbcU2HAgRJABXKAYfIlAhfLdxSGCzy-lJ9aDk0j22_sLjCbzrBm27u0-ckVPxYCzaUiFqv5dJ-_7LuO9ntKwyT6W-bFT7g0juIgPeEFEgD01wX9-7X39RbEpHRfrS5fYPrBf8w-w/s1600/IMG_20180422_125025416_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgex18mbcU2HAgRJABXKAYfIlAhfLdxSGCzy-lJ9aDk0j22_sLjCbzrBm27u0-ckVPxYCzaUiFqv5dJ-_7LuO9ntKwyT6W-bFT7g0juIgPeEFEgD01wX9-7X39RbEpHRfrS5fYPrBf8w-w/s320/IMG_20180422_125025416_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La Sportiva 25km & 50km sweep with Kaytlyn!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
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After the race we headed to the AirBnB,
which our friends so graciously invited us to share with them. We usually stay
at the Ellensburg KOA, but I am so thankful to have had a warm bed to sleep in
before the race as the morning low was in the low 30’s. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 67.5pt;">
When I woke up in the morning and
went to the bathroom, I looked down at my foot to see a gnarly looking bruise
over the top of my 5<sup>th</sup> metatarsal. “What the hell?” I thought. I had
no idea what I had done. I don’t remember dropping anything on my foot or any
kind of trauma that would leave such a mark. I was just hoping that it wouldn’t
hurt during the race or be so bad afterwards that it is something serious.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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We arrived at the Umtanum
Recreation Area an hour before the start to have enough time to do all the
pre-race things. The day’s weather had the promise of perfection – light wind,
sun and mid-50’s at the finish. I’m sorry 50k-ers!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNXhlMQdf-tkGf8yqamhJgphBTLrC71l1ufmqtACYjBC88CrNJv1xvxcQa27TZB5D-3J8PT1pSgRo28Cisu6xFo2OmLNsFuQ6mM8IpyjAfqHRNavxrCvemnUXZS3qMAmGR49QhyphenhyphengVy5Dk/s1600/7M2A2441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNXhlMQdf-tkGf8yqamhJgphBTLrC71l1ufmqtACYjBC88CrNJv1xvxcQa27TZB5D-3J8PT1pSgRo28Cisu6xFo2OmLNsFuQ6mM8IpyjAfqHRNavxrCvemnUXZS3qMAmGR49QhyphenhyphengVy5Dk/s320/7M2A2441.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leading the conga line in the first mile.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I didn’t really have a pre-race
strategy going into the race. We have been focusing on consistency and steady workouts
rather than really hard efforts that have left me drained and injured in the
past. The <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2016/04/yakima-skyline-rim-25k.html" target="_blank">first year </a>of the Yakima 25k, I went out too fast and about died
coming in. The <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2017/04/return-to-rim.html" target="_blank">second year</a> I went out much slower and felt a lot better on the
return but was over a minute slower. Super-stud Ladia Albertson-Junkans was
signed up to race the 25km but decided to withdraw as she is preparing to throw
the hammer down at the inaugural <a href="https://magnolia.com/silo-district-marathon/" target="_blank">Silo District Marathon</a> in two weeks to get an
OTQ. With Ladia out of the race, my goal was just to try to win, without really
focusing on a time goal. <o:p></o:p></div>
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After James gave the pre-race briefing
and reminding us all not to die, we were off and awkwardly running across the
Umtanum suspension bridge as is went up and down from so many legs crossing it.
I actually felt kind of dizzy when we got off, you know that feeling after you
get out of an elevator or off a plane?</div>
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Anyways, the top guys took off and
I looked up and saw the bright green of friend Josh Vander Wiele’s shirt in the
distance. I was on the back of the chase pack train for the initial climb and
then towards the top I took the lead. When we crested the top at 3 miles, the
guy beside me said, “you’re in fifth place,” and I responded with, “so are you!”
We worked together on the undulating service road until making the left turn at
Doug McKeever’s (favorite) aid station on to technical single-track. The decent
down to Rosa Creek aid station is a doozy. Even though I lubed up my feet based
on past experience, I still felt the burn of friction from sliding on the loose
ground. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNWCFG8g8gc_7SLjpQCkJq1ZiaQR741fayL1L8aN11mqRjjtf_lXHm0VDSCKWq43I5RFHQBgbLB-txHPpqHakY1zbDXqHlYZ7izAO1co-J1LhtbAn-M7v6N3hxGQj_opUo-murWPlRS5g/s1600/7M2A2601.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNWCFG8g8gc_7SLjpQCkJq1ZiaQR741fayL1L8aN11mqRjjtf_lXHm0VDSCKWq43I5RFHQBgbLB-txHPpqHakY1zbDXqHlYZ7izAO1co-J1LhtbAn-M7v6N3hxGQj_opUo-murWPlRS5g/s320/7M2A2601.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish line feelings.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The out and back nature of the
course allows us to meet and greet all the runners at the turn-around. This is
one of the reasons I love this race so much. Trail races are often so lonely,
but on this course, at least for a couple miles, you get to experience the camaraderie
and enthusiasm of the race. I felt stronger than I ever have on the net-uphill return
to the finish and was able to really push the final technical decent back to
the suspension bridge where Tad was waiting to run behind me across it because
#anxiety. </div>
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I made the loop around the perimeter of the parking lot and made sure
to slow before crossing the finish line for my revered James Varner high-five.
Last year, I nearly pulled his arm out of the socket as I dragged him with me
almost to the buffet line. For an embarrassing documentation of this, look back
at <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2017/04/return-to-rim.html" target="_blank">last year’s report</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I ended up first woman and 5<sup>th</sup>
overall with a time of 2:28:50, 40 seconds shy of my 2016 CR. Full results <a href="https://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=49955" target="_blank">here</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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After running the 25km three years
in a row, I think next year, body-willing, it will be time to step it up to the
50km. Oh boy. Double the fun, right?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnLQwVn06UPCp0QoGMR_KBRLJD-gG6m1cYBQ_EV4ZX2pOLMgz_myvG7IpIMNBBOeIRCgHiQpv-IqTOrDTAUA1DBPUqcj2fMmdtcqT74MupBSTbntJP8tKzqEUrfHA0bL2G2uXpbg8x9s0/s1600/7M2A2616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnLQwVn06UPCp0QoGMR_KBRLJD-gG6m1cYBQ_EV4ZX2pOLMgz_myvG7IpIMNBBOeIRCgHiQpv-IqTOrDTAUA1DBPUqcj2fMmdtcqT74MupBSTbntJP8tKzqEUrfHA0bL2G2uXpbg8x9s0/s320/7M2A2616.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">James, me & the awesome print.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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As always, I want to thank James
and the entire Rainshadow Running team and all the volunteers for making every
race such a special experience. From the food, to the beer to the music – the atmosphere
is unbeatable, and I am so grateful to live in the PNW and to have the
opportunity to take part in these events. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Tad and I were not ready to leave
the sunny-side of the mountains quite yet, so we decided to camp out the
following night. We usually sleep in the car, but the Orange Tiger wouldn’t
start before the trip, so we had to take the Prius which meant sleeping in a tent.
I froze my ass off. We woke up to 32 degrees with ice on the tent. We got up before
5am and booked it to Starbucks for warmth and caffeine.</div>
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The temperatures rose quickly, and
it was a comfortable 60 degrees for our hike/jog. My foot was significantly worse
and was causing a lot of pain for the first time. (Luckily, now a couple of
days later, the coloring is better and no longer causing pain.) What a freaky
thing!<o:p></o:p></div>
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You know it was a good weekend when
you step in the shower and a plume of campfire smoke smell is released and you let
out a little scream from all the cuts and scrapes you acquired. I think I
finally got all the dirt out of my nose… three days later.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6CsdJN4ouzgYkwZfX4s7LNliAqvjCr9ZbKDME0wxNblK6FW7IXid0Q-eq9Pkthsf2whbSSfBiiyR-Zlqzpzt2G-tmHhT5jXogXQ6M1kElAUnoNRIYM9851TafdKxflN10hZs5PpCa8-0/s1600/IMG_3380.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6CsdJN4ouzgYkwZfX4s7LNliAqvjCr9ZbKDME0wxNblK6FW7IXid0Q-eq9Pkthsf2whbSSfBiiyR-Zlqzpzt2G-tmHhT5jXogXQ6M1kElAUnoNRIYM9851TafdKxflN10hZs5PpCa8-0/s320/IMG_3380.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trying to hide how sore I am the day after.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Up next for me is the <a href="https://gobeyondracing.com/races/smith-rock-ascent/" target="_blank">Smith RockAscent 50km</a> in three weeks which I am so pumped about. I have yet to experience
the gorgeous trails of Smith Rock or a Go Beyond Racing event, so I am really
looking forward to it. I am still trying to kindle a love for the 50km distance
so maybe this race will be enough to light my fire. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /><br />
<br />
<br />Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-17296127178917780292018-03-19T15:58:00.000-07:002018-03-19T15:58:05.198-07:00Chuckanut 50k: Take Two<br />
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What a beautiful day we had for Chuckanut this year - a
stark contrast to last year's downpour. The depth of the women's field gets
deeper every year with this year being no exception. A solid race for me could
mean barely breaking the top 10. This was my second ultra, the first being the
2017 Chuckanut 50k where I placed 5<sup>th</sup> female.<o:p></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyY2-7IpRnI7dixCNyDJn6Q_BrZeoMDFYZFhrtIiN62VsHQu047jiV_XJJPT-s7j927BudhlLSN79OQTOqW0v2x6boRAtwyQmqZUCwElDDDWv-qLtKqlmthBG9KftP6ePttee6lc7e5bg/s1600/IMG_20180317_071220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyY2-7IpRnI7dixCNyDJn6Q_BrZeoMDFYZFhrtIiN62VsHQu047jiV_XJJPT-s7j927BudhlLSN79OQTOqW0v2x6boRAtwyQmqZUCwElDDDWv-qLtKqlmthBG9KftP6ePttee6lc7e5bg/s320/IMG_20180317_071220.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Warm-up snuggles with Nikki.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I had a really good training block early this winter and was
feeling strong and fit. My first race of the year was the Orcas Island 25k in
January in less than ideal conditions. Running aggressively through snow and
slush left a lingering twinge in my knee that put a kink into my training leading
up to Chuckanut. I took several days off and skipped a couple of weeks of
workouts to try to tame the pain and tightness.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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With that, my confidence wasn’t high, and I really didn’t know
what to expected on race day. About three miles into the race, my left leg
started tightening up (a chronic issue of mine that flares up when I run on
flats) and forced me to stop and stretch several times on the Urb before
heading up the single track into the Chuckanuts. I was running in about 7th or
8<sup>th</sup> place early on with Sarah Bard who would pull away every time I
stretched so I’d put in a minor surge to catch back up each time.
Unfortunately, the tightness never let up, so the race ended up being an
uncomfortable grind the whole way. Since I know the course so well, it was hard
not to feel 100% because I knew every little challenge that was ahead of me and
I began to dread each section. Sometimes, ignorance is bliss!</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-aSYRK7keZZ2dwe8KNLX7PDmgNtGVbliT6ZTonvddukFYkz_fj7_J4fTZsb2XJHa0h2szf7r9lIEY8EBzcdTpWTKEeHozFgp4t8BMgchleisNR_6Eo2InkL85HetAPO9E8GCus5OPrI/s1600/7M2A1646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-aSYRK7keZZ2dwe8KNLX7PDmgNtGVbliT6ZTonvddukFYkz_fj7_J4fTZsb2XJHa0h2szf7r9lIEY8EBzcdTpWTKEeHozFgp4t8BMgchleisNR_6Eo2InkL85HetAPO9E8GCus5OPrI/s320/7M2A1646.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking a much-needed GU on Chinscraper.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
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Because the women's field was so deep, I was constantly
trading places with some of the top women, especially Kathryn (Kat) Drew (6<sup>th</sup>
and just over a minute behind me last year), who I leap-frogged with multiple
times. She really allowed me to get out of my own head and start racing, which made
the experience much more fun.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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At the start of the final long 3-mile descent to Lost Lake
aid station, somebody yelled out, "Great job, Ellie!" My first
thought was, "Wow, somebody has mistaken me for one of my trail heroes and
the queen of the Chuckanut 50k, Ellie Greenwood!" My second thought was,
"Wow, this is what it feels like to be hunted down by Ellie," as I
felt the wind of Ellie screaming by me in classic Ellie fashion. I never had so
much fun getting passed by somebody in a race.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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When I got to the final aid station, I traded in my
hydration vest for a hand-held and braced myself for what every Chuckanut 50k
racer dreads the most: the final 10km on the Interurban Trail. I stopped 1-2
times each mile to loosen up my left leg. Unfortunately, this meant watching Kat
get further and further ahead (and little did I know Sarah Bard getting closer
and closer behind me). She had such a strong race and it has been very impressive
to watch her bring her Chuckanut times down significantly every year.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5OGnmuuMNGlOtIxM5-VT45ia2s5i9HRmZsFhdOaVywg6JQuEQNXE1U5J3h-UXsmYMoS_cmAIkfxnyqDSZ8jaWCRwkRmhWym5MWtltzD7r9yC7ZBPz51j88ecu68ZowyisEsJ3nzTKM8E/s1600/7M2A1901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5OGnmuuMNGlOtIxM5-VT45ia2s5i9HRmZsFhdOaVywg6JQuEQNXE1U5J3h-UXsmYMoS_cmAIkfxnyqDSZ8jaWCRwkRmhWym5MWtltzD7r9yC7ZBPz51j88ecu68ZowyisEsJ3nzTKM8E/s320/7M2A1901.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish line. Oh, sweet relief!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Given the way I felt on the day, I am extremely satisfied
with my 6th place finish. But even more so, I am so grateful for the love and
support of my Bellingham community. So much love waited for me at the finish
line. Gosh, I love you trail people! I woke up the next morning unable to move
most of my body, but with a very full heart.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Congratulations to everyone who raced, from Keely’s super
impressive first Chuckanut win and second fastest time ever, to Anne-Marie’s Chuckanut
PB, to Ellie’s non-comeback comeback, and so many more standout moments to
mention. During the final 10km I told myself that I would never have to race –
or run! – ever again after this. Now that it has been a couple of days, I think
I might reconsider. This event is far too special to pass up.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUPmyCYz9lEoS_Pnwdne2i7oIG4m8MaEoljQTlmjizInNSgH2D4cnR4xXOHpg0fEUNhwjI5KAHzaJtifDq3oS0-iWDXebtxfUaZmqttTDH7pgIw7TzF-4w8k9Tf4ZsHbn3Xr1R6f0OdQk/s1600/7M2A1931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUPmyCYz9lEoS_Pnwdne2i7oIG4m8MaEoljQTlmjizInNSgH2D4cnR4xXOHpg0fEUNhwjI5KAHzaJtifDq3oS0-iWDXebtxfUaZmqttTDH7pgIw7TzF-4w8k9Tf4ZsHbn3Xr1R6f0OdQk/s320/7M2A1931.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hopefully saying something witty to Anne-Marie and Kaytlyn. <br />Hard to tell.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Thank you to Krissy Moehl and her team of race directors,
and to all the volunteers and aid station crews who help make this such a
special and memorable experience for everyone every single year.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A massive thank you to the team of people who have helped me
for 4+ years: Kerry Gustafson, Chris Lockwood, Tonia Boze, Jeff Boggess, Jenn
Love, Jeff Fisher, my La Sportiva family, my Bellingham family, and my real
family. And of course, it goes without saying, to my husband, Tad.<o:p></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsjHFMe3ZC4OQ5pECeMrW6AcW74Z11gg5YzN4TC0VfcDH71nZAqix3uuFkGP-58G-tKLxCp5_lQBYOZV8qUsA_JAfacc6jrtkQLhYivGzKl7Wl3CKMFy-SV8Bb9plfjrgN0I7zCLeyfHI/s1600/7M2A1960.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsjHFMe3ZC4OQ5pECeMrW6AcW74Z11gg5YzN4TC0VfcDH71nZAqix3uuFkGP-58G-tKLxCp5_lQBYOZV8qUsA_JAfacc6jrtkQLhYivGzKl7Wl3CKMFy-SV8Bb9plfjrgN0I7zCLeyfHI/s320/7M2A1960.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With the champ, Keely.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
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I wasn’t sure if I should keep doing these blog reports
because the message always ends up being the same after all these years, but it
is an opportunity to really reflect and remind myself about what is most
important in life and the many good people that I am so blessed to have as role
models, friends and family.</div>
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<br /></div>
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This was my last race in my 20’s. What a decade it has been!
I am so grateful for the experiences I have had the last 10 years and will
continue to work hard to learn, grow and open opportunities for the next 10
years. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-57628019123614001402018-01-30T15:55:00.001-08:002018-01-30T17:44:50.366-08:00Orcas Island 25k<div class="MsoNormal">
I usually kick off my racing season at Destination Trail’s Fragrance
Lake Half Marathon in Bellingham in February, but I have been feeling back on track after my fall reset and have been able to get in some solid training.
Rather than waiting, we decided to begin the year with Rainshadow Running’s
<a href="http://www.rainshadowrunning.com/orcas-island-25k.html" target="_blank">Orcas Island 25km</a> because #whyrunanywhereelse?<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’ve raced on Orcas once before at the inaugural <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2015/04/orcas-island-marathon-debut.html" target="_blank">Orcas Island Marathon</a>. It was my first trail marathon and it was obvious in the way
that I raced it. The weather provided some challenges for that race, with
a hail storm causing me to stop at the top of Mt. Pickett and put on a shell
for protection. (In hindsight, I wasted way too much time fumbling with the
jacket when I could have gotten away without it. Ah, well.)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8at06muLZjQ4i5tfffm-zUq_v2Lu1JByk3kizlnu8hM4F4gGgvvaiiQGcPK1C5erS49K_5xE3VYmUK6V2_yulKK3RSdi8362lw55NoMxLNZ4EzGEm09q6K8MAMtCaxGwknzao5kBsYPQ/s1600/IMG_20180127_141319590_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8at06muLZjQ4i5tfffm-zUq_v2Lu1JByk3kizlnu8hM4F4gGgvvaiiQGcPK1C5erS49K_5xE3VYmUK6V2_yulKK3RSdi8362lw55NoMxLNZ4EzGEm09q6K8MAMtCaxGwknzao5kBsYPQ/s320/IMG_20180127_141319590_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the ferry with Mitch and Scarlett</td></tr>
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A snow storm tormented us the days before the race,
threatening a course change if the predicted 6-8 inches fell on top of Mt.
Constitution. This would prevent crew and emergency vehicle access, so a snow
route was sent out two days before. Luckily, the storm was downgraded and the
morning of the race, it was announced that there would be no course change.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We stayed at the Rosario Resort and Spa in the same room as
in 2015. Instead of eating at our usual Hogstone’s Wood Oven, which is closed
for the season, we ate at the Rosario Lounge in the center of the mansion. I
was blown away by their pizzas. Easily the best I have ever had. I still find
myself thinking about it…<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc7UoWXWOoKGo-MK9VhQO-qhbAnQNrxs-Fvw6FY56BMi9vuM8CAKutDdy2ThHRnZVLHd9kHfqiEDxYdfM9gh1S-rGpzQkyafTidDkV_kIKnEXfuSzhDQRVD0oDbi1sdaLW-OdHvX3VbOQ/s1600/7M2A0169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc7UoWXWOoKGo-MK9VhQO-qhbAnQNrxs-Fvw6FY56BMi9vuM8CAKutDdy2ThHRnZVLHd9kHfqiEDxYdfM9gh1S-rGpzQkyafTidDkV_kIKnEXfuSzhDQRVD0oDbi1sdaLW-OdHvX3VbOQ/s320/7M2A0169.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fancy footwork?</td></tr>
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The resort is all set to welcome Rainshadow Runners for the
next two weeks as runners come in for the 50km this weekend and the 100-miler
the following weekend. We felt very well taken care of, and it was fun to check
out the upstairs museum and read about the history of the mansion and Moran
State Park.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I expected to wake up to rain so was relieved to pull the
blinds open to a dry morning. After check-in, I warmed up with Tad, Scarlett
and Mitch – just like the usual Saturday morning long run. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Rainshadow Running legend and one of my favorite trail
runners, Doug McKeever, saved the day by giving me quick bathroom access in his
camp cabin strategically located right beside the start line literally 5
minutes before the start. Thank you, Doug!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Following Mitch through the slush.</td></tr>
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One of my favorite moments at a race is the start line because
everyone is gathered together, and you get to say hello to friends, give hugs
and well wishes. There was no shortage of hugs before this race. I am so
grateful for the good people in my life (I’m talking about you Doug, Scarlett, Mitch, Nichole,
Christian, Jennifer, Bill and Marie!)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Scarlett tailed me the first 5.5 miles which was really comforting until we hit The Power
Line and I latched on to Mitch. Together we *powered* up the climb away from
the strung-out pack we started with until we were isolated, trudging our way up
and up and up. Snow and slush began to appear, and the wind picked up. <o:p></o:p></div>
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(I made the mistake of forgetting a water cup so I could not
get water at the two aid stations, so I went the whole race without any water. Duh!)<o:p></o:p></div>
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The two-mile section of trail that connects the top of The
Powerline to the bottom of the Mt. Constitution climb is my favorite trail. But
on this day, it was covered in slick slush and downed trees that are not
conducive for short legs. I awkwardly had to hurl myself over the large trunks
cowboy style, and scurry to catch back up to Mitch.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Mitch kept an honest pace up to the Mt. Constitution
look-out and then once at the top, we admired the view that wasn't there, and
proceeded carefully to the descent. There was about 3-4 inches of wet sloppy
slush to splash through for several miles until Cold Springs. Glenn Tachiyama was in his
usual spot capturing the essence of the race. Thanks for being out there,
regardless of weather, Glenn!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a view! PC: Glenn Tachiyama</td></tr>
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The last five miles, Mitch and I worked to try and finish
under 2:30. I took the lead on the final descent thinking we were definitely
going to be sub 2:30. But then a half mile to go there was this annoying short
steep hill that put an end to that dream. Aw well. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I ended up finishing in 2:31:40, first female and fifth
overall. Full results <a href="https://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=48864" target="_blank">here</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I attempted a very pathetic cool down backwards on the
course to cheer on the racers as they came through, but it was more like a
shuffle walk with lots of whining. I was a hurting pup after this race!<o:p></o:p></div>
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After changing into warm dry clothes, we feasted on an
impressive spread of pizza, wraps, salads, fruit and cookies while hearing the
play-by-play of fellow racers. We couldn’t hang for long in order to make the
2:10 pm ferry. On the way to the terminal, we missed the turn and ended up
getting pulled over for speeding. Oi vey. Luckily, the police officer was very
kind and understanding and let us <span style="font-family: inherit;">go with just a warning. Double win!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hanging with the Bellingham Crew.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you to the entire <a href="http://www.rainshadowrunning.com/" target="_blank">Rainshadow Running</a> Team for <span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;">always ensuring our safety and a good time. It was
an honor to kick off my 2018 season with you.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDdr2l28-Ep673h-0tgmCO2zj1p5hdAi0uSxX1OgIoJmbuZVdB5N3BOA-4GKsQenS0mTi-aR5mflWOu0PHx-3vPiyUPnHsFOVCcspID9JCqVKHiIvoNazczGNihry0_vgTMo2ixM5hzL4/s1600/7M2A0331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDdr2l28-Ep673h-0tgmCO2zj1p5hdAi0uSxX1OgIoJmbuZVdB5N3BOA-4GKsQenS0mTi-aR5mflWOu0PHx-3vPiyUPnHsFOVCcspID9JCqVKHiIvoNazczGNihry0_vgTMo2ixM5hzL4/s320/7M2A0331.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">James Varner, the brains behind Rainshadow Running</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am extremely grateful for the continued support of my main
sponsors in 2018:</span></div>
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<ul>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> <a href="https://www.sportiva.com/" target="_blank">
</a></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="https://www.sportiva.com/" target="_blank">La Sportiva</a></span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="https://www.lilytrotters.com/" target="_blank">Lily Trotters</a></span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="https://nativeyewear.com/" target="_blank">Native Eyewear</a></span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="http://terraingym.com/" target="_blank">Terrain Gym</a></span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="http://alignchiropracticbellingham.com/" target="_blank">Align Chiropractic</a></span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="http://primebellingham.com/" target="_blank">Prime Massage</a> & Sports Medicine</span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> <a href="https://trailbutter.com/" target="_blank">
</a></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="https://trailbutter.com/" target="_blank">Trail Butter</a></span></li>
</ul>
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It’s teamwork that makes the dream work and I have an
incredible team of people who believe in my dream.</div>
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I am already looking forward to the <a href="http://www.bellinghamtrail.com/p/fragrance-lake-10k20k.html" target="_blank">Fragrance Lake Half Marathon</a> on February 17, one month out from Chuckanut 50k. I hope to see you
there!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5MVGSpKSxMUeSb7uW7QX7TpILNM-GiGHEYVWWRQ54aGpqD-11IqaJ5GLIykkk0Srx1-a5sas4bBegS3yULbGE3AqfXQTsdDuZYDbUDm8JD46ubgdQOl_t3maxssvGAgHU9pXRrtDL4ZU/s1600/7M2A0299.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5MVGSpKSxMUeSb7uW7QX7TpILNM-GiGHEYVWWRQ54aGpqD-11IqaJ5GLIykkk0Srx1-a5sas4bBegS3yULbGE3AqfXQTsdDuZYDbUDm8JD46ubgdQOl_t3maxssvGAgHU9pXRrtDL4ZU/s320/7M2A0299.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hooray for high-fives!</td></tr>
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-57674383139641897692017-11-13T08:54:00.001-08:002017-11-13T09:33:52.059-08:00La Sportiva Running Camp 2017<div class="MsoNormal">
I had the special opportunity to be a part of the 2017 La
Sportive Running Camp which took place in Sonoma County, just north of
Healdsburg, California over three and a half days. The retreat can best be
summed up in 3 words: running, wining, and dining. What could be better?</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Striding out on the Marin Headlands. PC: Tad Davis</td></tr>
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Since August, I have been dealing with a nagging glute strain.
After unsuccessfully pushing through the pain, I decided to take a month off from
running and just do yoga and some hiking on the weekends. I had to cancel my fall race plans, but my
hope was to at least be well enough to start running the week before camp so
that I would be able to run with my teammates. Thanks to the combined efforts
of Bellingham rock stars and masters of their craft, <a href="http://alignchiropracticbellingham.com/" target="_blank">Chris Lockwood</a>, <a href="http://primebellingham.com/" target="_blank">Keri Gustafson</a> and <a href="http://www.nineneedles.com/" target="_blank">Ash Goddard</a>, I started back jogging 4 days before we left. When we stopped at the Marin Headlands after
our flight on Wednesday, I had my first pain-free run in months. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The purpose of my involvement with the camp was to learn more
about the company’s past and future, the business, the new gear, and to get to know
the other ambassadors and staff. As an ambassador of the program, it’s
important to have a solid understanding of the mission statement and inner-workings
of La Sportiva. This allows me to better promote the company especially through
social media. Being an ambassador is much more than just showing up at a race
in the gear. My responsibilities include constant personal photo shoots, social
media activity, blogging, and general representation of the brand.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpD2t6pTmUKnLaVnI3V2FW1vdx7ISHtbJEEQnJIwQHPza15eXfQGL49vS0MnUJMOzYD6_NF06vHRQIX6kQlrex6h2grMZAl_KiSYpiS05t4s16L1bUU0M5sMXJG4HxiDBpoFbIXIu16oM/s1600/MTrappe__DSC0705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpD2t6pTmUKnLaVnI3V2FW1vdx7ISHtbJEEQnJIwQHPza15eXfQGL49vS0MnUJMOzYD6_NF06vHRQIX6kQlrex6h2grMZAl_KiSYpiS05t4s16L1bUU0M5sMXJG4HxiDBpoFbIXIu16oM/s320/MTrappe__DSC0705.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Selfie. PC: Matt Trappe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
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The La Sportiva athletes joining me were <a href="https://www.facebook.com/antonkrupicka.runner/" target="_blank">Anton Krupicka</a>,
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/merejune/?hl=en" target="_blank">Meredith Edwards</a> and<a href="https://pantilat.wordpress.com/" target="_blank"> Leor Pantilat</a>. The journalists sharing the weekend with us
were Lisa Jhung, Adam Chase, Allison Patillo and Brian Metzler. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Our accommodations were in a farmhouse on <a href="http://rockpilevineyard.com/" target="_blank">Rockpile Ranch</a>, an
800+ acre vineyard. Rockpile is known for their red wines, producing premier
varietals which include Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit
Verdot, Zinfandel, Primitivo, Syrah, and Petite Sirah.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOpyHSzrLs6cOrb1CJW9qHYHPa34E45_pobRphPrq_4w2wP7k7J7IBtsvM3k80Ac62TIydGZd1Omq7W-1WwkUI6Vy_Fvg2-SEArys9jRHYR0jfZGUrkpoyWdiuSRv-nZ5viPKTna0QRQw/s1600/MTrappe__DSC0148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOpyHSzrLs6cOrb1CJW9qHYHPa34E45_pobRphPrq_4w2wP7k7J7IBtsvM3k80Ac62TIydGZd1Omq7W-1WwkUI6Vy_Fvg2-SEArys9jRHYR0jfZGUrkpoyWdiuSRv-nZ5viPKTna0QRQw/s320/MTrappe__DSC0148.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good food, good people, good conversation. PC: Matt Trappe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
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The drive up to the ranch was a doozy, especially in pouring rain.
The fog made it feel like we were driving up and over a mountain pass in Europe.
The ranch is fenced off and has multiple gates to keep the wild pigs out and
prevent them from destroying the grapes and vines. We drove up to the first
gate which was locked. We had no service to call and find out how to get
through. Convinced we were lost, we started to turn around when another car
pulled up beside us. It was Maria Clemente, our chef for the weekend. Maria had
the info to open the gate and we followed her through the meandering woods to
the house at the road’s end.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Maria spoiled all of us for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
every day making plant-based, deliciously healthy foods to satisfy and fuel the
day’s adventures. I might be biased, but there’s something about Italian girls
named Maria who have a passion for food. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHPxBsDC9JWoETE_9RtoLTLge45GQUhd-IfiqANZ7ULrk2EkM0wa6DL_1jgXlx3hYlgvmqYKwl6VvR87t6w_JZryk94aN5uCnla7qbOEexPJEpjRCM93zP5uM8OogujBjewE7wmqOa19o/s1600/MTrappe__DSC0180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHPxBsDC9JWoETE_9RtoLTLge45GQUhd-IfiqANZ7ULrk2EkM0wa6DL_1jgXlx3hYlgvmqYKwl6VvR87t6w_JZryk94aN5uCnla7qbOEexPJEpjRCM93zP5uM8OogujBjewE7wmqOa19o/s320/MTrappe__DSC0180.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning Yoga. PC: Matt Trappe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The first night we had special guests John and Lisa Medinger
of <a href="https://ultrarunning.com/" target="_blank">Ultrarunning Magazine</a> and RDs for the Lake Sonoma 50 for dinner. It was fun
to get to meet so many people that I have only read about through the years. I
was so excited when I saw John, I pulled on Tad’s sleeve and said, “look, he
really does always wear a Hawaiian shirt!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The first morning, Chris and Mari Coppinger from <a href="http://www.2upyoga.com/" target="_blank">2up Yoga</a> came
to the house to teach us some yoga for runners. They provided for us mats,
blocks, and even straps. Pretty cool! Unfortunately
for Tad, when he was transitioning into warrior one, he caught his toe and may
have broken it. Luckily, he was still able to run, but his poor little toe is
black and crooked. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjauSE7g9WQ9gDARog3cEPsNt4C3MyyPIW_zVcb-lE2rIYF4xtu2CMRinEx19SccChyphenhyphenaj2CtZfP_IStksCTLpWvy9y27Obtc01bim8CJVM41wa7alDFRVmBApAP4YGkkz481qZWw-lfxtg/s1600/MTrappe__DSC0227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjauSE7g9WQ9gDARog3cEPsNt4C3MyyPIW_zVcb-lE2rIYF4xtu2CMRinEx19SccChyphenhyphenaj2CtZfP_IStksCTLpWvy9y27Obtc01bim8CJVM41wa7alDFRVmBApAP4YGkkz481qZWw-lfxtg/s320/MTrappe__DSC0227.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skip explaining the way. PC: Matt Trappe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The runs were organized by the owner of <a href="http://www.healdsburgrunningcompany.com/" target="_blank">Healdsburg Running Company</a>, Skip Brand. He provided maps for every run and water for mid-run and
after. Skip radiates positive energy and is a true ambassador of the sport. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP28lEUsnN0EYlbQImICZ0UZ8Gs-ucxmoEQAZd0nfnD2OxtMD0igSldxoe8OX8hAlAUgA1HlAVFfbB5bGFJ3uMmCAnukAPQtaB7wNt2jQUYJgWrynlSVNenjeZFFdQYxqtwPj280kUEL4/s1600/MTrappe__DSC0330.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP28lEUsnN0EYlbQImICZ0UZ8Gs-ucxmoEQAZd0nfnD2OxtMD0igSldxoe8OX8hAlAUgA1HlAVFfbB5bGFJ3uMmCAnukAPQtaB7wNt2jQUYJgWrynlSVNenjeZFFdQYxqtwPj280kUEL4/s320/MTrappe__DSC0330.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wining. PC: Matt Trappe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
The first run started at the Lone Rock trailhead and we ran
some of the famous trails of the Lake Sonoma 50. Tad and I ran with Emma, the
associate winemaker from Mauritson Vineyards. We learned so much during that
run; Emma’s passion was inspiring. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYDcWGXahtZrssPNl_Tvb6Hg24rIHADFskRlxRRTLCWdtI6YxU5LHsXtgDRPxJEUaldBLG9hMHCUMKrAUgahcCPdqdMI-hZdJnBx_xxlPRqrtchzldETmwYy4zqdQclcUB01zP1A6m_U/s1600/IMG_20171109_170708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYDcWGXahtZrssPNl_Tvb6Hg24rIHADFskRlxRRTLCWdtI6YxU5LHsXtgDRPxJEUaldBLG9hMHCUMKrAUgahcCPdqdMI-hZdJnBx_xxlPRqrtchzldETmwYy4zqdQclcUB01zP1A6m_U/s320/IMG_20171109_170708.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting carried away. PC: Tad Davis</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t remember the rest of the day because I was drunk. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Just kidding!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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We went to two wine tastings, the first at <a href="http://www.wilsonwinery.com/" target="_blank">Wilson Wines</a> and
the second at <a href="http://www.mauritsonwines.com/" target="_blank">Mauritson Vineyards</a>. Both were paired with the most delicious
cheese and crackers and education. I loved it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The second day’s run was at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural
Reserve, a beautiful lush loop through the redwoods. Maria packed us lunch to
go, which we paired with sparkling white wines from <a href="http://www.ironhorsevineyards.com/" target="_blank">Iron Horse Vineyards</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFMIshzMfugPtRYNjXXNTbk4Dfwgj2LDjxwAjwFQoKSKmWiEvErZ3NWJ9AThyfjXhR0ZPLBx5QLj-bTxUEF3WJhjV2pm6EJUPBEQFIWxU4q-NF5ywVGRXEJU97ADMVXQpxRHzVehnRXw/s1600/IMG_20171109_172413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFMIshzMfugPtRYNjXXNTbk4Dfwgj2LDjxwAjwFQoKSKmWiEvErZ3NWJ9AThyfjXhR0ZPLBx5QLj-bTxUEF3WJhjV2pm6EJUPBEQFIWxU4q-NF5ywVGRXEJU97ADMVXQpxRHzVehnRXw/s320/IMG_20171109_172413.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That Zinfandel glow. PC: Jonathan Lantz</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
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Before our last dinner, Chef Maria and I did a little talk and
food demo about how to make vegetables taste good by preparing them correctly.
Maria pan-friend squash and made the most delicious chimichurri sauce and I went
on a couple of my nutrition rants. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSiMLhK0CKkWB6Aegylrn_1OkeOvwc2o_euXPafLTAGyd3sgyHDiB0ckhu_TKlgp37YRsmRH2Bbe_MbmRtsccnzDZurD_KnyiWOZfV_sLZtXOPHkRyMmV3KZ5To0FHKN0d98_AuhG-qG4/s1600/MTrappe__DSC0820.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSiMLhK0CKkWB6Aegylrn_1OkeOvwc2o_euXPafLTAGyd3sgyHDiB0ckhu_TKlgp37YRsmRH2Bbe_MbmRtsccnzDZurD_KnyiWOZfV_sLZtXOPHkRyMmV3KZ5To0FHKN0d98_AuhG-qG4/s320/MTrappe__DSC0820.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Maria & Maria" Show. PC: Matt Trappe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The end of camp would culminate the next morning at Stinson
Beach for <a href="http://insidetrail.com/" target="_blank">Inside Trail Racing</a>’s Mt. Tam Trail Run. Since my body was feeling
good, albeit with little fitness, I decided to run the 10km. After looking at
the course record, I believed that I could run close to the best time and
wanted to go for it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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Instead of getting up at 3:30 am and driving 2+ hours from
Rockpile Ranch to Stinson Beach, Tad and I got a hotel outside of Mill Valley
for the night before. It’s no secret that I am high maintenance when a race is
involved. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd78ArB7TtSupw2h1uQNtDKuQOTiaa5wJbvuq22HHx8SdzfNXP8IWHdvpEImUPYMVWkpbJkj5i1RcQ3RVRLR-TiNXk5Z7lSsCi-kJuK4sxKOaKG-VXddShOE_nCc5xuMq_bbc62q4Mac8/s1600/7M2A1814.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd78ArB7TtSupw2h1uQNtDKuQOTiaa5wJbvuq22HHx8SdzfNXP8IWHdvpEImUPYMVWkpbJkj5i1RcQ3RVRLR-TiNXk5Z7lSsCi-kJuK4sxKOaKG-VXddShOE_nCc5xuMq_bbc62q4Mac8/s320/7M2A1814.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish line. PC: Tad Davis</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After three days of rain, Saturday was a crisp sunny fall
day. Joining me in the 10km was Lisa, Allison, and Corey; the rest of the gang
was taking on the half marathon distance. We all started together at 7:30 am and
when the gun went off, I went to the front with another girl right on my
shoulder. She passed me on the first of the famous Dipsea stairs. I stayed on
her, not wanting to push too hard and die for the downhill back. Once we
crested the top of the 1,600-foot climb, the trail leveled out and she cruised
as I sprinted to the Cardiac Hill aid station. She took a left for the half and
I took a right for the 10km. For the final three miles it was a race against
the clock. I ended up 4<sup>th</sup> overall and first female, besting the
previous course record by 2 minutes with a time of 57:25.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Full results <a href="https://app.lap.io/event/2017-mt-tam/results" target="_blank">here</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So many people to thank for making this memorable weekend
possible:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quinn Carrasco – our fearless leader. Thank you for
organizing and bringing us all together. You are truly one-of-a-kind and we are
all lucky to have you.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTB6-llN68cZ04XJF3yDIJKiZq0lGrRzV0jv1HTRUhgQSFt-96nUDlnsayM8-I2NQhQ02LnTBLBTq4GzGTyCvGjOOJlu_8jX7onQfwSj47PQ5lRBjyQXF_LIKiuhvD5mf-P8R4FTJQoZc/s1600/7M2A1717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1029" data-original-width="1600" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTB6-llN68cZ04XJF3yDIJKiZq0lGrRzV0jv1HTRUhgQSFt-96nUDlnsayM8-I2NQhQ02LnTBLBTq4GzGTyCvGjOOJlu_8jX7onQfwSj47PQ5lRBjyQXF_LIKiuhvD5mf-P8R4FTJQoZc/s320/7M2A1717.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quinn being Quinn. PC: Tad Davis</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jonathan Lantz – president of La Sportiva North America. It
was a pleasure getting to know you and it is reassuring that such a genuine
person is leading our company. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cory Lowe – the account manager of La Sportiva’s PR firm and
the backbone of media. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/maria.clementi.359" target="_blank">Maria Clementi</a> and Bird – I am so happy for the new
friendship. Hopefully we can take the “Maria & Maria” show on the road
sometime. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Skip and Holly Brand from <a href="http://www.healdsburgrunningcompany.com/" target="_blank">Healdsburg Running Company</a> – thank
you for your hospitality and kindness. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tim Stahler – Mt. Tam Trail Run race director from <a href="http://insidetrail.com/" target="_blank">InsideTrail Racing</a>. This is my third race of Tim’s and he and the volunteers never
fail to put on an A+ event. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH8-q-_dKKF_CtM2eYAfJSXyXEtE6KxDr4ZwFw3kEZeJtldr_47z-5saqiCpTrU70t0w2w-INOoaFEvrWnqRkN0FuosXmg01TX7czCJprzJEuEiIyEDd_fRU7BZfknXdEls6HsVhTDL44/s1600/7M2A1848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH8-q-_dKKF_CtM2eYAfJSXyXEtE6KxDr4ZwFw3kEZeJtldr_47z-5saqiCpTrU70t0w2w-INOoaFEvrWnqRkN0FuosXmg01TX7czCJprzJEuEiIyEDd_fRU7BZfknXdEls6HsVhTDL44/s320/7M2A1848.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post-race with Lisa. PC: Tad Davis</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chris and Mari Coppinger from <a href="http://www.2upyoga.com/" target="_blank">2up Yoga</a> – thank you for
teaching us the importance of slowing down and taking time to transition out of
running and into our daily lives. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.mauritsonwines.com/" target="_blank">Mauritson Vineyards</a>, <a href="http://www.ironhorsevineyards.com/" target="_blank">Iron Horse Vineyards</a>, Rockpile Ranch
and <a href="http://www.wilsonwinery.com/" target="_blank">Wilson Wines</a> – what an experience to visit all three of these wineries and
get to literally taste the passion behind each grape. Coming from a wine-making
family, this was such a treat!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lisa Jhung, Allison Patillo and Adam Chase – thank you for
your interest in the company and the team, and for being a promoter of the
sport through your writings, involvement and lifestyle.</div>
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<a href="http://www.trappephoto.com/" target="_blank">Matt Trappe</a> – mad respect for you and the way you
effortlessly carry that camera with you wherever you go. Thanks for capturing
all the good times.</div>
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Meredith, Anton and Leor – thanks to each of you for
inspiring me and being good people on and off the trails. I’ll always be
cheering for you. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ72bfYp_7EzeCXAF2WabGtjc_epYX-tXLQNtGV44c_tEM_mdE7XVzIO_jdh3lTY38RxcjfjlUXANhUFhmamzqLpKbD4Ulexi_c1uZmr6c9aUBBHiKf5RBCyUjACzTpD9uG6X1g47VYS8/s1600/MTrappe__DSC0322.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ72bfYp_7EzeCXAF2WabGtjc_epYX-tXLQNtGV44c_tEM_mdE7XVzIO_jdh3lTY38RxcjfjlUXANhUFhmamzqLpKbD4Ulexi_c1uZmr6c9aUBBHiKf5RBCyUjACzTpD9uG6X1g47VYS8/s320/MTrappe__DSC0322.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La Mia Famiglia di La Sportiva. PC: Matt Trappe</td></tr>
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-65014245564203749432017-08-29T07:18:00.001-07:002017-08-29T07:18:24.978-07:00The Cutthroat Classic<div class="MsoNormal">
The Cutthroat Classic is called a classic for a reason. The
race is point-to-point 11 miles that goes 5 miles up and over Cutthroat Pass
via the Pacific Crest Trail and then 6 miles of switchbacks down to Cutthroat
Lakes Trailhead. The views are incredible, the community even better and the
post-race burritos are 10/10. These are just a few of the reasons this race
sells out every year, and why I wanted to be a part of the fun.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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I first raced Cutthroat in 2014. I had a solid performance,
but started the race a bit frazzled as I peed over a hornet’s nest 5 minutes
before the start and got stung directly in the buttocks (I always say that with
a Forrest Gump accent). You can read more about my experience <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2014/08/cutthroat-classic-scones-stings-scenes.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Since returning from Europe I have not been focused on
racing because I was preparing to start a new job working as the dietitian of a
bariatric weight management clinic. Now going into my third week, I am getting
used to a tighter schedule and working on keeping my anxiety under control. Even
though I have felt more tired, I did not back off on mileage going into
Cutthroat because I am preparing for the Oregon Coast 50k in October. <o:p></o:p></div>
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My goals for the race were to beat my previous 2014 time of
1:26:12 and to not get stung. (In addition to getting stung in 2014, I got
stung by hornets the past two weekends on my mountain runs!) I knew winning was
going to be difficult after hearing that the always impressive Ladia
Albertson-Junkans would be on the starting line, but I would try to be as close
to her as possible. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaO4saKErnLEn90vmVx7s-WEKvV61QDkff7LP4t0le03M3qeqoKpn6-smotcjsP2QhmD7El93GTZ4n22tTWvMZEkcHAfrSPHT1swsOYvU2zTIHr7QWkQ9kBQ_DooO9Q-DSrtINaUE1Tqg/s1600/IMG_20170826_104413-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaO4saKErnLEn90vmVx7s-WEKvV61QDkff7LP4t0le03M3qeqoKpn6-smotcjsP2QhmD7El93GTZ4n22tTWvMZEkcHAfrSPHT1swsOYvU2zTIHr7QWkQ9kBQ_DooO9Q-DSrtINaUE1Tqg/s320/IMG_20170826_104413-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lily Trotters Reppin'.</td></tr>
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We stayed at the Winthrop KOA which meant a 40-minute drive
to the start Saturday morning. I figured it was worth the extra driving time in
the morning given the Four Season’s-like amenities at the campground. What I
failed to factor in was how crowded the campground would be as people are
trying to squeeze out every bit of summer before returning to school, darkness
and rain. Obnoxiously large RV’s were pulling in deep into the wee hours of the
night and their equally obnoxious owners cackled and yelled, inconsiderate of
those trying to sleep. Anyways, I digress.</div>
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I got up at 5:00 to a chilly 43-degree morning. Tad brought
the heater for the tent and made coffee while I ate my usual pre-race <a href="https://trailbutter.com/" target="_blank">TrailButter</a> and bagel. We left at 6:30 and made it to Rainy Pass Trailhead and first dibs
on the bathroom before the bus of racers pulled in from Mazama. We met up with
Ladia and jog-chatted until the first wave set off at 8:00. The trail quickly
funnels from the parking lot onto the single-track PCT. The lead men took off
and I led the train of the chase pack for about a mile and a quarter until
Ladia let loose, went by me and off she went. It was kind of mesmerizing to
watch her just float away. Then I realized that I had two ladies still right
behind me, not missing a step. At about 3 miles, Winthrop’s Novie Mccabe passed
me and then Spokane’s Kelly Quinn went by. I felt stuck in first gear and couldn’t
respond quickly to their moves so I was now the caboose of the train. After
about ¾ a mile I felt like I was having to slow down too much so I carefully
took the lead again until a half mile from the top when everyone in the string
passed me again. I kept calm, hoping that my improved downhill skills would
serve me well. But as we crested up and over Cutthroat Pass, I was left in
plumes of dust from my competitors. I worked the downhill as hard as I could,
but was never able to catch back up to be within striking distance. I ended up
as 4<sup>th</sup> female with a time of 1:26:02, 10 seconds faster than 2014. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Full results <a href="http://www.methowtrails.org/results/CutthroatResults.html" target="_blank">here</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE3kL6d2XrvzbofN08xYmp8DKSsoCjsB6PzjLIH6ivdU6ufTWuUrih9cBw15sQIH-wNOftMEqSc504sNdW-6Lo2wbxXPSjou0lq5WRpamyrDqQKeoJ-6N8pgi5V2p9_Kr5C0UtW067PM8/s1600/20170826095015_IMG_1083-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1291" data-original-width="1291" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE3kL6d2XrvzbofN08xYmp8DKSsoCjsB6PzjLIH6ivdU6ufTWuUrih9cBw15sQIH-wNOftMEqSc504sNdW-6Lo2wbxXPSjou0lq5WRpamyrDqQKeoJ-6N8pgi5V2p9_Kr5C0UtW067PM8/s320/20170826095015_IMG_1083-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One mile to the finish.</td></tr>
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<br />Upon reflection, I was in really good shape in 2014 and ran Cutthroat
just 2 months before I won the Trail ½ Marathon National Championship. So even
though I didn’t have an ideal race then, I am not in that kind of shape right
now to run significantly faster. I think I also underestimated how tired I was
going into the race. But overall, it was a hard effort that will serve me well
for the future and I got to run on a trail that is close to my heart (Tad
proposed on top of Cutthroat Pass in 2015) with good friends on a beautiful day.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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I don’t know if it’s me getting older –and hopefully wiser—but
I don’t get as upset as I used to when I don’t run as well as I had hoped. There
is so much more to racing than the pursuit of times and places, and while I will
always work 110% to be the best I can, I also have a better appreciation for
the ability to just be able to run in such magical places. As Ladia so poignantly
quoted the inspiring Gabe Grunewald after the race, we just need to show up.
Show up without expectations and pressure and with an open heart. <o:p></o:p></div>
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One of the many cool parts about this sport is that even if
you don’t have a good race you can hit the trails the next day and let the
beauty feed your soul. The following day, Tad and I ran the Maple Pass Loop
which is easily my new favorite course in the North Cascades. Just wow. If you
haven’t made that run/hike yet, please do yourself a favor and check it out. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbJnzdX8yNDkt9nMyG3xwi4MkbzANKFlxbZcMi4osaXFZAy2kgQt97917C5wcJpD54EOwtBNDJGe6XWJz3vsanZFjWfpJrlcKedyaulenE1Lgh4zWOjm10serF8_MdyEQqZ64ig9Yku1M/s1600/IMG_1295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbJnzdX8yNDkt9nMyG3xwi4MkbzANKFlxbZcMi4osaXFZAy2kgQt97917C5wcJpD54EOwtBNDJGe6XWJz3vsanZFjWfpJrlcKedyaulenE1Lgh4zWOjm10serF8_MdyEQqZ64ig9Yku1M/s320/IMG_1295.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maple Pass, elevation ~6,900 feet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />Also, I didn’t get stung once all weekend.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thanks to Adrienne Schaefer, the new event coordinator, the
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/methowtrails/" target="_blank">Methow Trails</a> Event Team and to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WinthropMountainSports/" target="_blank">Winthrop Mountain Sports</a> for such a challenging
and fun race experience. Next year is going to be extra special as it will be
the 20<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the race. I hope I can be there to help
celebrate. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Thank you to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lilytrotters/" target="_blank">Lily Trotters</a> for sponsoring me in this race. These
socks, are not only cute and comfortable, but they also are perfect for keeping
clean on these dry dusty trails. You can check out more of their signature
compression socks <a href="https://www.lilytrotters.com/collections/lily-trotters-signature-collection" target="_blank">here</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Here’s to squeezing out the last bit of summer.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0v69RRuul6Cj3TxKkOGiNaDTDraL4_k-Jz0ikhXXfLnXGqw5NSpJFZVuB9xvAWkVbBhiulS8Qtfs7pMiLB8rZ3osRs_mHt1GIGMU-sekwve7gc8iD4U6bHZ3h7nIq-PWv7SJ4ZmkAfs/s1600/IMG_1158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0v69RRuul6Cj3TxKkOGiNaDTDraL4_k-Jz0ikhXXfLnXGqw5NSpJFZVuB9xvAWkVbBhiulS8Qtfs7pMiLB8rZ3osRs_mHt1GIGMU-sekwve7gc8iD4U6bHZ3h7nIq-PWv7SJ4ZmkAfs/s400/IMG_1158.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Overlooking Lake Ann.</td></tr>
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-78385803017993561402017-07-26T03:56:00.000-07:002017-07-26T03:56:31.825-07:00Pull-Up Assist Bands: Review from BarBend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxG2xpnh4JeZdp1kvTdRulXPpJTqPKTYj9S4BriNJ7UACruHJUlydRJUl0UhOXhJD5ernQ6kF9Zyq1qL769nJq86qgIDj3Cw40K4FVVsaYj1qyeOxZ85ea1wgr_ZpFo_DJtDNPh_voG5Y/s1600/7M2A7445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxG2xpnh4JeZdp1kvTdRulXPpJTqPKTYj9S4BriNJ7UACruHJUlydRJUl0UhOXhJD5ernQ6kF9Zyq1qL769nJq86qgIDj3Cw40K4FVVsaYj1qyeOxZ85ea1wgr_ZpFo_DJtDNPh_voG5Y/s320/7M2A7445.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting my pull-ups on at <a href="http://terraingym.com/" target="_blank">Terrain Gym</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Lets be honest. Runners are not known for their arm strength. After all, it is our legs that propel us forward, up and over mountains. But this doesn't give us a free pass to skip the gym or monkey bars.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">Many distance runners tend to overdevelop their chest and front shoulder muscles due to the way they carry their arms. Over time,</span></span><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"> t</span><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">his imbalance can result in a posture that causes stress and pain in the lower back, and is </span>inefficient<span style="font-family: inherit;"> and uneconomical over long distances. Upper body strength is </span></span>especially important for runners who frequent hilly and technical terrain.<br />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The good news is that a combination of mid- and upper-back exercises such as pull-ups and chin-ups will help to prevent imbalances from developing. To help you do a pull-up correctly without sacrificing form or increasing chance for injury, use a pull-up assist band. I use these bands often in the gym, especially when I am getting tired and am straining in a way that feels </span>injurious<span style="font-family: inherit;"> to me. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"></span></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">For a re<span style="font-family: inherit;">liable resource on the best pull-up assist bands and why this piece of equipment is a game changer, check out a comprehensive review from <a href="https://barbend.com/best-pull-up-assist-bands/" target="_blank">BarBend</a>, </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; text-align: start;">a news, analysis, entertainment, and opinion platform that posts multiple times a day on what is relevant in strength-based competition and training.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; text-align: start;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; text-align: start;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; text-align: start;">Are pull-ups part of your routine? Do you use an assist band? How many can you do with and without an assist? Do you feel it makes you a stronger runner? Let me know!</span></span><br />
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<br />Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-79138740417587375962017-07-04T08:54:00.000-07:002017-07-04T09:30:52.548-07:00Europe Trip 2017: Marathon du Mont Blanc and the Stanserhorn Mountain Run<div class="MsoNormal">
Two years ago, we stayed in Chamonix for a couple of days
while en route to Zermatt for the <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2015/07/world-long-distance-mountain-running.html" target="_blank">World Long Distance Championships at the Zermatt Marathon</a>. Coincidentally, we were there the same weekend of the <a href="http://www.montblancmarathon.net/en/races/mont-blanc-marathon" target="_blank">Mont BlancMarathon</a>. The excitement buzzing through the valley and the inspiration of watching
the racers finish the 80km race in town was so special that I wanted to be a
part of it. This year we made that happen.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aiguille du Midi - Chamonix, Mont Blanc</td></tr>
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This was our third time traveling to Chamonix, so even
though I was going to a foreign country, I felt comfort going to a familiar
place. The weather when we arrived was super warm for us Pacific
Northwesterners – mid-8o’s. That sun is just so hot if you’re not
used to it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hanging with the locals.</td></tr>
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Two days after we arrived and two weeks before the race, we
ran 16 miles of the Mont Blanc Marathon course as part of a 20-mile long run. One
week before the race we ran the 10-mile loop that included the daunting climb
up to Col des Possette. Our first impressions were that the course was much
more technical than we had first thought, but still nothing too crazy
(especially for Europe). </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4CpJ4YExERpY14McjUdGYXfAPsvqTw72BRpr3wU1iQnctIrkFq0F_8btgZPvN5MO0UIzEgyPAJS4q-CeFxG6Jbiap-2CSKtrvTdmRssNg1VKmrmP4_1vNdD9OpW5hDug4G3zEGFXISY/s1600/IMG_20170618_102901-01-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4CpJ4YExERpY14McjUdGYXfAPsvqTw72BRpr3wU1iQnctIrkFq0F_8btgZPvN5MO0UIzEgyPAJS4q-CeFxG6Jbiap-2CSKtrvTdmRssNg1VKmrmP4_1vNdD9OpW5hDug4G3zEGFXISY/s320/IMG_20170618_102901-01-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Col des Posettes on a clear day.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The climb (3,000 feet in 3.5 miles) was not as bad as
I had anticipated and, after studying splits from racers past, set a goal of placing
in the top 10. To be honest I really wanted to be one of the ten women standing
on the awards stage. With 9,000 feet of climbing and 5,000 feet of descending
in 26 miles it was not going to be easy, but I felt confident that this was a
realistic goal.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCHO6mjD0qWijB6da1rYqnMg1GA8O5EEDxOoAKksXuCMCSYEW42y4ZET9PnE7ITato4z9t98TX5EGv6vhB-PM4n3g7rRU-mDRGY_mfV9c6fNvw9YciAcFtIQ9OvzRKYE5v58RRvj6dnAM/s1600/profile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="662" data-original-width="1366" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCHO6mjD0qWijB6da1rYqnMg1GA8O5EEDxOoAKksXuCMCSYEW42y4ZET9PnE7ITato4z9t98TX5EGv6vhB-PM4n3g7rRU-mDRGY_mfV9c6fNvw9YciAcFtIQ9OvzRKYE5v58RRvj6dnAM/s400/profile.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Course Profile</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWiz88bQ3hus74QD_eu4GC2uv9vClbkrjqbiXXFvnG2N8Ak0AFJWrajBT40T70giNM6ogG6_tYwXEKiPCQZ_nU41rl8bhaxqyGcHAy5y6ovT4DkWrimTrM21xcJ_xw4yFrBGq9mLPvboM/s1600/IMG_20170624_110131-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1070" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWiz88bQ3hus74QD_eu4GC2uv9vClbkrjqbiXXFvnG2N8Ak0AFJWrajBT40T70giNM6ogG6_tYwXEKiPCQZ_nU41rl8bhaxqyGcHAy5y6ovT4DkWrimTrM21xcJ_xw4yFrBGq9mLPvboM/s320/IMG_20170624_110131-01.jpeg" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Supporting ITRA with Andy Wacker.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The day before the race I got called to the laboratory next
to the hospital to get my blood taken for doping control. I was so honored to
take part! I stood in line behind Kilian Jornet. No big deal. As an aside, I
just got an email today from the lab saying that my cortisol levels were
especially high and that maybe this was race anxiety, but I should still share
this information with my doctor. This stressed me out.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirbauVKPZbLzaTndpTX7JxX5mw72q8b8CcAihZgCudeO3HwA7Y9sp5QgBc6H90zu3wP6rkJc6moE86s0ELhY64tuoMZgUmYQ0wU9gy2rhCNSHzxjo8YNaJ45lyYZJFfLPyy2hTH0z_Nc4/s1600/7M2A9506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirbauVKPZbLzaTndpTX7JxX5mw72q8b8CcAihZgCudeO3HwA7Y9sp5QgBc6H90zu3wP6rkJc6moE86s0ELhY64tuoMZgUmYQ0wU9gy2rhCNSHzxjo8YNaJ45lyYZJFfLPyy2hTH0z_Nc4/s320/7M2A9506.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Climbing through the fog.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The night before the race a front came through changing the
weather dramatically. Now I was anticipating rain for much of the race and
hoped it wouldn’t be too bad at 6,000 feet. I started out the first four miles
clicking off splits that were similar to my tempo run 10 days before. I was
feeling good, running calm and relaxed, completely under control sitting in 5<sup>th</sup>
position. Right before the climb to Possette, there was a downpour. The men
around me were all stopping to put their jackets on, but I figured it would
pass through quickly and knew that we wouldn’t be up on the ridge for long.
And, come on, I live in the Pacific Northwest−this is nothing! The rain did
let up, but left me soaked and in a cloud with zero visibility making a chilly
traverse across Possette. The descent off the mountain is super technical with
rocks and stairs made of slick wood logs. These technical parts are usually my
weakness but after practicing on Chuckanut Ridge this Spring I was pleased that
I only got passed by two men and I even passed one myself.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIswdW9b2pg_hql3B6W7NirGTIf68g0VOEo_jlfDLfIWN5hgx2qF2ObFoX41b5Kn64vnkA6h2m_c3ixQUYGtxq2_NFkQWT6XSovpHYzo_-MNsC7k8sA12PZmHRM55yu_sv8rDEgcZP6lg/s1600/7M2A9448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIswdW9b2pg_hql3B6W7NirGTIf68g0VOEo_jlfDLfIWN5hgx2qF2ObFoX41b5Kn64vnkA6h2m_c3ixQUYGtxq2_NFkQWT6XSovpHYzo_-MNsC7k8sA12PZmHRM55yu_sv8rDEgcZP6lg/s320/7M2A9448.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sitting comfortably in 5th.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I always take GU when I’m racing and have never had a
problem. When I took my first GU of the race, I noticed it didn’t appeal to me
as it usually does and had a harder time getting it to go down. I didn’t think
anything of it, and attributed it to breathing hard at elevation. But each
sequential GU kept getting harder and harder.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj70rvKKLD3jghzNA4g2A9C2BkwqT3YGO7VetyyhRi3SdLucwRcfoy5DVlz-Pc2LfQ4EfID5WNIvYl_kVkFHsOa5SuuGRHa1GynURAiZeJYzNF1Q-hN0VwtBdLkixGvcWbemlBYV0FkbuQ/s1600/IMG_20170622_104009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj70rvKKLD3jghzNA4g2A9C2BkwqT3YGO7VetyyhRi3SdLucwRcfoy5DVlz-Pc2LfQ4EfID5WNIvYl_kVkFHsOa5SuuGRHa1GynURAiZeJYzNF1Q-hN0VwtBdLkixGvcWbemlBYV0FkbuQ/s320/IMG_20170622_104009.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Packet pick-up with Andy and Karly.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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When we finally bottomed out, I felt off. I didn’t have the
same composure. There is a road crossing at 19 miles where they put a temporary
overpass made of scaffolding two-stories high. This is where the wheels fell
off my bus. Looking back on the pictures, Tad told me that in this spot I look
sick and pale with a caved in face. I started the long climb up to Flégère, but
could only run a few steps, then I’d have to bend over. I suddenly felt so
nauseas and had such an incredible thirst. Unfortunately, there was no aid
until the top of Flégère. I have never felt such sickness in a race. I was really
struggling and still had so far to climb to get to water. I don’t even like to
drink from the same bottle as Tad, but here I was asking random people on the
side of the trail and other racers for water. I started getting passed by other
women until I was clinging to the 10<sup>th</sup> spot.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6oSJW20Gq116JsD59Ut8qN_S0JTXZ52NF3pf4vSoOJY_CRDPm6Jxb1NW520M2UcjcB3CCTNaOF1jIkojmRyBIAPObY06j2UJc-juRnFMQQKN4hkkeeOIeRrG8FR2l21rfixB6gsp7qVU/s1600/7M2A9568.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6oSJW20Gq116JsD59Ut8qN_S0JTXZ52NF3pf4vSoOJY_CRDPm6Jxb1NW520M2UcjcB3CCTNaOF1jIkojmRyBIAPObY06j2UJc-juRnFMQQKN4hkkeeOIeRrG8FR2l21rfixB6gsp7qVU/s320/7M2A9568.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Right before the wheels fell off.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiGvYwz1CFOhqe_-Wjlzy5RrVtkj5_5dsTTl1RkVjPKfFf6OyZamZWQXfcg2__p-UnUKtuegt6hdWGwRbyszABCBQUkcrx1ehB4db5C0784pk1wY5qDF2EWWs7PduLiMIbA2mH0c1LB4g/s1600/IMG_20170625_130437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiGvYwz1CFOhqe_-Wjlzy5RrVtkj5_5dsTTl1RkVjPKfFf6OyZamZWQXfcg2__p-UnUKtuegt6hdWGwRbyszABCBQUkcrx1ehB4db5C0784pk1wY5qDF2EWWs7PduLiMIbA2mH0c1LB4g/s320/IMG_20170625_130437.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The best aid station crew.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrklRZOzsY05nGo4bIrQgorztmAxIgv2KYeT5btp7sydnNBE1qDukswftqNKGLTRdk2hu5sIsp2QIJbR4r1N5mnc-iiADJtC9m-xCMSrqDmLsYvCkgE0LYXOBTKs8iCC2zgmP1_3QpkbU/s1600/IMG_20170623_191433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrklRZOzsY05nGo4bIrQgorztmAxIgv2KYeT5btp7sydnNBE1qDukswftqNKGLTRdk2hu5sIsp2QIJbR4r1N5mnc-iiADJtC9m-xCMSrqDmLsYvCkgE0LYXOBTKs8iCC2zgmP1_3QpkbU/s320/IMG_20170623_191433.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheering for the Vertical Km with Megan and Sage.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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When I finally got to the Flégère aid station, the top of a
6,000 foot peak, it was completely socked in and I became so cold I started
shaking violently. The med staff saw me and pulled me into the medical tent and
made me lie down on a cot. They brought me some Isostar sports drink and wrapped
me up in an emergency blanket. One of the men even took his jacket off and
covered me. They rubbed my hands together and made me tea to try to warm me up.
They checked my temperature which had dropped significantly. Smartly, this race
has a mandatory gear list for all racers which includes a cell phone. They were
able to get me wi-fi (“wee-fee” as they called it) so I could call Tad. With
his usual spectating plan of driving and running side trails he had followed my
progress and was aware I had lost some spots when he last saw me at 21 miles. He
was down in the valley in line to take the gondola up to meet me at the finish
hoping I was holding on to that top ten podium spot. I explained I was sick in
the medical tent so he drove to Les Praz and took the gondola up to Flégère. He
got to the top, looked in the medical tent and saw two cots, one empty and one
holding jackets and a space blanket. I was so bundled he didn’t even notice the
lump under the pile was me. Tad said to call it a day and come back down the
mountain in the gondola, but after the <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2016/06/2016-world-long-distance-mountain.html" target="_blank">World Long Distance Mountain RunningChampionships in Slovenia</a> last year, there was no way I was not going to finish.
I asked how long I could lay there and still finish. I had three hours to get
it together, so I laid there for about an hour and started feeling better. I
thanked everybody for helping me and walk-jogged the final 5k which took a
little over an hour. Tad jogged the first half mile with me to make sure I was
okay to finish and then turned around and went back down the gondola at Flégère.
This meant that I was alone at the finish. I am usually so hard on myself, but
in this moment, I felt so proud. I took a selfie and got my yearly cup of coke.
By this time the clouds lifted and the sun came out so I sat down for a bit and
enjoyed the view before taking the gondola back down.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimyhIQADnAwJXWw3HZ4yTY_02Tv6li-QdrgIpuGXIpJ2YSNuqe1A0jLGDZo8izAOzFmWd1a2tVUYAKJBMPMzb9a3hcA0K8Zqh_4vkvcrgqkgyiT5ZSevhmQeQf0arMNriBQKlUVW7hK00/s1600/IMG_20170625_141141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimyhIQADnAwJXWw3HZ4yTY_02Tv6li-QdrgIpuGXIpJ2YSNuqe1A0jLGDZo8izAOzFmWd1a2tVUYAKJBMPMzb9a3hcA0K8Zqh_4vkvcrgqkgyiT5ZSevhmQeQf0arMNriBQKlUVW7hK00/s320/IMG_20170625_141141.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish line selfie.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, what happened? Well, I don’t know for sure. Was I severely
dehydrated? With this much climbing did I underestimate how slowly I should
start? Did I have a bug? What could I have done differently? These are all
questions going through my head to make note of and learn from for next time. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I honestly got to experience it all. From being treated as
an elite, to racing in the top five, to being taken care of by the kindness of strangers,
to racing to the finish with back of the packers (which is no different than
running up front!). My friend Nikki summed it up best for me: “What an
incredible day! To learn how fast you are (first 18 miles), how tough you are
(last 3 miles), and how loved you are (Tad and aid station workers) all in one
race!” The whole experience leaves me feeling so full of gratitude. The best
part about not racing the way I had hoped is I get to return to Chamonix and
try again. I’ll be back for you Flégère!</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQaan4wgY8NrlDKcakghH1wycx93YxnVSmI-54CTmnnne0WN1-FSu_LpmQnSKxcvBfR1mXcofAZt9ktl6a6ipdL3g7hhXe22jpuEH-cta6vdP76_WtCFPbZ0eGTwo82_b0oSJTTfwHito/s1600/IMG_20170628_210753-02.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1476" data-original-width="1600" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQaan4wgY8NrlDKcakghH1wycx93YxnVSmI-54CTmnnne0WN1-FSu_LpmQnSKxcvBfR1mXcofAZt9ktl6a6ipdL3g7hhXe22jpuEH-cta6vdP76_WtCFPbZ0eGTwo82_b0oSJTTfwHito/s320/IMG_20170628_210753-02.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La mia famiglia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Two days after the race, we rented a car in Chamonix and
drove to Varese, Italy to see my family. It is always so special to see them
and they treat Tad and me like royalty. I’m still dreaming about the lasagna,
risotto, cream puffs… <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH_WgOhDf-v3V8N-bKO5whIfQuGk9JxrMXsnzL6JuoluSiWWI4XPLSdilOkJxog2iJJo9nQOkuPfFYYi2YZGmcnWFDc_iXRDSTx5ItiP_FFMgks_aZ_jeitCKGTUM7c6NTo3cBSyz4vpk/s1600/IMG_20170627_190120-02-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1204" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH_WgOhDf-v3V8N-bKO5whIfQuGk9JxrMXsnzL6JuoluSiWWI4XPLSdilOkJxog2iJJo9nQOkuPfFYYi2YZGmcnWFDc_iXRDSTx5ItiP_FFMgks_aZ_jeitCKGTUM7c6NTo3cBSyz4vpk/s320/IMG_20170627_190120-02-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy place.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
From Varese, we drove into Switzerland and up and over
Gotthard pass where we stopped for an awesome 7 mile run on a trail we found on
the side of the road. The rest of the drive up the pass was so nerve-wracking
because we were completely in a cloud and couldn’t see two feet in front of the
car. With the narrow roads and cliffs, I’m terrified of the cars coming the
opposite direction. I had to sit down low in the seat, close my eyes and pray.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
The backdrop of Interlaken is the stunning Jungfrau mountain
range. The problem with Interlaken is that to get anywhere with a cool view you
have to climb. A lot. Or you have to pay to take the gondola. A lot. So, Tad
studied the map and found the most obscure and scary road to drive up so that
we wouldn’t have to do so much climbing. (I think by the time we returned the
rental car imprints of my hands were molded into the dashboard and ceiling.)
The trail was absolutely polluted with cow shit. There was just no avoiding it and
we had to tip-toe through it to make sure we didn’t slip and fall face-first.
Once we waded through that mess, we were treated with unobstructed views of the
Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau Mountains. Truly spectacular, shit and all. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzFq2oDrQLdaEL7dQLAlnDOgBdPy0WCSMvsF9B4ZHfsbQeFXVGu4jLu_KmC-n578JEL4e75R0oyss8g8e6smhAyhpg981TTjnA9E-oxmyGq4B60PUqcvmaZyo1MdfgfncHBnwFmCiusHw/s1600/IMG_20170629_130017-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzFq2oDrQLdaEL7dQLAlnDOgBdPy0WCSMvsF9B4ZHfsbQeFXVGu4jLu_KmC-n578JEL4e75R0oyss8g8e6smhAyhpg981TTjnA9E-oxmyGq4B60PUqcvmaZyo1MdfgfncHBnwFmCiusHw/s320/IMG_20170629_130017-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gotthard Pass, Switzerland.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Out of curiosity I looked up what other races were going on
in Europe during our visit. One of the many cool things about Europe is that
there always seems to be some trail or mountain race going on in every town.
About one hour away from Interlaken was the 31st <a href="https://www.scstans.ch/berglauf" target="_blank">Stanserhorn Berglauf</a> in Stans,
Switzerland. This is an 11-kilometer mountain race with 5,000 feet of gain. A
true mountain run with zero descent.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqwIyAei9ZBVRL66ZwTbrOKrkueCZBWRHRhR_2aDmLr5PfDYcAPJX2UWba7F2Y08cB-i_Phl9iaorwthhyphenhyphenmTBpeZRwlsC_XHl_Sk4me0KwU4cajTNy_HD2KrpeWxnPQ44SVLtkS-1PcXc/s1600/IMG_20170630_105127-01-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqwIyAei9ZBVRL66ZwTbrOKrkueCZBWRHRhR_2aDmLr5PfDYcAPJX2UWba7F2Y08cB-i_Phl9iaorwthhyphenhyphenmTBpeZRwlsC_XHl_Sk4me0KwU4cajTNy_HD2KrpeWxnPQ44SVLtkS-1PcXc/s320/IMG_20170630_105127-01-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jungfrau Mountain Range.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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On Saturday, the day before the race, I still couldn’t
decide if I wanted to run. The weather did not look good and it was going to
make for a long day of travel because the town of Stans was the opposite
direction of where we needed to end the day. We had to return the car to
Chamonix Sunday night, get a shuttle to the Geneva airport, and then a shuttle
to the hotel in France, to fly out the next morning. I hardly slept at all,
tossing and turning about logistics. I woke up at 5am and still didn’t know if
I wanted to race, as it was pouring rain outside. We decided to head to Stans
and make the call when we got there. So we drove to Stans, pulled into the cobblestone
town square where they were just starting to set up the start banner. We were a
little early and luckily found a parking spot meters from the start. I still
didn’t know if I wanted to race as I was walking to the registration table.
Finally, I thought what the hell, just do it. This is not my normal mode of
operation by any stretch so this was a big step for me. We paid 50 francs, and
they handed me a number. Nobody spoke English so after a fun game of charades
we finally found the bathrooms.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaVgouosvfNLJMgjYxuwbJJA5zLnwDyc0A3eStGFccmLATp0MBJtKrTVem4t4EtttKzJG4gEh_VyLHjc7z2uK-RnbUeX6XeYo9ErCrsyI3nkNahRaZrWdRVkI9HsUUAUzh8lia1TDk5tY/s1600/7M2A9590.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaVgouosvfNLJMgjYxuwbJJA5zLnwDyc0A3eStGFccmLATp0MBJtKrTVem4t4EtttKzJG4gEh_VyLHjc7z2uK-RnbUeX6XeYo9ErCrsyI3nkNahRaZrWdRVkI9HsUUAUzh8lia1TDk5tY/s320/7M2A9590.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1 Km in before the road turned to trail.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I felt surprisingly good on the warm up given that I had
just run the marathon a week before. (I guess it helps marathon recovery when
you take an hour nap in the middle!) From the start through the first 1 km
(each km was marked) I was about 30 meters behind the lead woman. I didn’t know
at the time, but this woman was the course record holder. Half-way up the
climb, I was still feeling really good, closed the gap and covered any move
that she tried to make. As the race wore on, she started to lose her footing in
the closing mile so I figured she was getting tired and as soon as the trail
opened up, I would be able to pass her in the last mile and pull off the win.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimuutT1v0uHV2USL6kBkeoC0CM1_e5xbJs0iW6NI5yeZQpLsikUz6-9-OvfTJGguopw_2NmA6hXW7ijRkZtByunmXL9aS-1YitDC1e40IrCV9dSNINAoMi4MTgiIvo7rgDAcLfRpDk758/s1600/7M2A9630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimuutT1v0uHV2USL6kBkeoC0CM1_e5xbJs0iW6NI5yeZQpLsikUz6-9-OvfTJGguopw_2NmA6hXW7ijRkZtByunmXL9aS-1YitDC1e40IrCV9dSNINAoMi4MTgiIvo7rgDAcLfRpDk758/s320/7M2A9630.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pushing to see the finish.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The problem with not knowing the course and running in a
cloud is that I didn’t know exactly where the finish was and couldn’t see
anything ahead of me. The final mile continued to be narrow trail that was so
steep it was mostly stepped switch-backs. I’m not as efficient on steps and my
opportunity to “let ‘er rip” never came. I ended up getting beat by 24 seconds.
I’m kicking myself for not making a move earlier, but I’ll know for next time.</div>
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What a trip. I think this has been my favorite adventure yet
because I grew so much. I feel like every day I was pulled out of my comfort
zone and had to embrace being comfortable feeling uncomfortable. My hope is
that as I settle back into my every day routine I can hold on to this new
growth. <o:p></o:p></div>
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More pictures from my trip can be found on Instagram
@mariadalzot.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4zF0d5boqLxgtednFy_PhJTcHmOTkap4N4uzODxiv4VS1J19owG0ESL9pEKGBLa0rdUOGGkzmvS_4zO4j8oY-ndiRCtsaMJECsUCW3veuMOroeBqE4-RKD9-hryJzEoZzmc2q9oLngnc/s1600/7M2A8775-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4zF0d5boqLxgtednFy_PhJTcHmOTkap4N4uzODxiv4VS1J19owG0ESL9pEKGBLa0rdUOGGkzmvS_4zO4j8oY-ndiRCtsaMJECsUCW3veuMOroeBqE4-RKD9-hryJzEoZzmc2q9oLngnc/s320/7M2A8775-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Thank you to all of my sponsors who help support my dream and to you for reading and following along on the adventure.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFRVWWvRWBLqUKR1kcvYaZ_Ea6n8Y1iuaQajdxf_p-53kSEbEvBoToNs_FuxUKokIUXC5DgJ07ZqSCI8YmZz3amtC0lOtoRnKQ-H4pM3VfOAwgD8DY1HKxg6dHym7Jeyp5n6P2I3gw8ro/s1600/7M2A9024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFRVWWvRWBLqUKR1kcvYaZ_Ea6n8Y1iuaQajdxf_p-53kSEbEvBoToNs_FuxUKokIUXC5DgJ07ZqSCI8YmZz3amtC0lOtoRnKQ-H4pM3VfOAwgD8DY1HKxg6dHym7Jeyp5n6P2I3gw8ro/s320/7M2A9024.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-21271557850654321512017-05-23T08:17:00.000-07:002017-05-23T08:17:21.430-07:00Sun Mountain 25k<div class="MsoNormal">
Friday afternoon we headed over to the east side of the
Cascades for<a href="http://www.rainshadowrunning.com/sun-mountain-25k.html" target="_blank"> Rainshadow Running’s Sun Mountain 25k</a>. The stoke was high that the
highway 20 pass opened just days before, cutting our road trip in half. We
stopped at Washington Pass for the obligatory “look how much snow there is!”
picture. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLhuI6As0k6OQDjXmRikwrXHIxcq7TyyH6zhmvWvwvgbDgLWigggpZYPEYvPW-L3_eD7QJAF2yO-t0rFOGAKU98EnPP7pXSTTL3zfDbLosVTpUtc5DlEQ0eMPML7VLA9hFftS0PlxzNHY/s1600/IMG_20170519_174420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLhuI6As0k6OQDjXmRikwrXHIxcq7TyyH6zhmvWvwvgbDgLWigggpZYPEYvPW-L3_eD7QJAF2yO-t0rFOGAKU98EnPP7pXSTTL3zfDbLosVTpUtc5DlEQ0eMPML7VLA9hFftS0PlxzNHY/s320/IMG_20170519_174420.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I made reservations for us to stay the weekend at the
Winthrop KOA, the crème de la crème of campgrounds. Our tent sat right next to
the river which was rushing so hard it sounded like the ocean. The owners were
just delightful; super welcoming and hospitable. The bathrooms were insane. Held
inside a landscaped cedar cabin, inside each door is your own private toilet,
sink and vinyl shower. I will forever be spoiled.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxUbwTRpBQDQ_4lNJ8hFTT7Nmzk5zu-i5V47mFZ8UYpco0iDWnbV8dLRZfQYCkKNAJ60zR_XWRSR84gsME9sx7pslriavIonGXwM-xLNWuRA2rVeiO2F9LdluwSSS07nUc6-_bzOLfCfQ/s1600/20170520_101457_2-02.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxUbwTRpBQDQ_4lNJ8hFTT7Nmzk5zu-i5V47mFZ8UYpco0iDWnbV8dLRZfQYCkKNAJ60zR_XWRSR84gsME9sx7pslriavIonGXwM-xLNWuRA2rVeiO2F9LdluwSSS07nUc6-_bzOLfCfQ/s320/20170520_101457_2-02.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Tad and I ran 9 miles of the course on Saturday while
cheering on the 50k runners we saw on the course (Kaytlyn Gerbin, Michael
Plummer and Tara Berry crushed it!). I feel a lot more confident going into a
race when I know the course so I try to see as much as is reasonable the day
before. This also allows me to really stop and enjoy the amazing scenery, which
is just breathtaking. <o:p></o:p></div>
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James moved the start of the race up two hours from 10:00am
to 8:00am. I was so grateful for this change as it was going to be a high of 82
in the Methow on Sunday, a temperature to which I am not acclimated. <o:p></o:p></div>
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After studying the course and splits from folks who ran it
last year, my goal was to run under two hours. But after previewing the course
and finding out that an extra 1.4 or so miles was added, I let the time goal go
and just focused on running aggressive. And, let’s be real, a win is always
nice, too. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvlwDrL4d_5WD_zQ_grb96dRQewGrejsW4S9pVqGJEudMMB8KxwmDqhgRKX3l7PO4KBqJZpNwin1-iBsbHhkuA5VnUabg2_Vl_wCiTHundBgCjYXaIKqh48kaeST-zvOozuexvHFjxEPA/s1600/7M2A8101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvlwDrL4d_5WD_zQ_grb96dRQewGrejsW4S9pVqGJEudMMB8KxwmDqhgRKX3l7PO4KBqJZpNwin1-iBsbHhkuA5VnUabg2_Vl_wCiTHundBgCjYXaIKqh48kaeST-zvOozuexvHFjxEPA/s320/7M2A8101.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The first couple of miles are net downhill and a woman took
it out hard at about 6:15 pace. I worked to catch up to her and passed her at
3.5 miles. I continued to move up the field catching the 7<sup>th</sup> and 8<sup>th</sup>
place men on the first sustained climb. I shared a few miles with Brett Winegar
who was clearly running much more relaxed than me based on his ability to speak
in full sentences versus my grunting. They
kept me company until the aid station where I did not stop and kept the
pressure on to try to gap the woman who was hot on my heels. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJVlXsGgbTVIMko0vRkxnSKyuN2276HBToXG3UtgyU3efwrb5Dlyko648QHM5jwoUIKjzbi7-hM3TI26DGFrC03xSD14PDHdjHDYkIGM8RRFrHdURaSXGsqcQxnnIwfwCLOz64Urp2EBw/s1600/7M2A8202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJVlXsGgbTVIMko0vRkxnSKyuN2276HBToXG3UtgyU3efwrb5Dlyko648QHM5jwoUIKjzbi7-hM3TI26DGFrC03xSD14PDHdjHDYkIGM8RRFrHdURaSXGsqcQxnnIwfwCLOz64Urp2EBw/s320/7M2A8202.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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When I saw Tad at 10 miles, she was 90 seconds behind and
then at mile 11.4 she was 4 minutes behind. Experience has taught me to not rest
on my laurels despite the increasing gap so I continued to run scared. With a
couple of miles to go, I checked my watch and realized I still might have a
chance at breaking two hours! But the clock was ticking and the finish line was
just out of reach. I finished the approximate 15.7-mile course in 2:01:08. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc42HbviwWGz0Df7kuaBLYw0DROz__9DUKDqQxnx2SkPU5dvSHSef_FoyJOvtcNCby22kXffP_auUH69LBuXZzbaqODwKo2DRXVzSshnGGy5wL821m1cuv8MCuAuLGt8X_aidXuV71UdI/s1600/IMG_20170521_113926.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc42HbviwWGz0Df7kuaBLYw0DROz__9DUKDqQxnx2SkPU5dvSHSef_FoyJOvtcNCby22kXffP_auUH69LBuXZzbaqODwKo2DRXVzSshnGGy5wL821m1cuv8MCuAuLGt8X_aidXuV71UdI/s320/IMG_20170521_113926.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div>
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Full results <a href="https://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=40092#id419792" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Congratulations to everyone who ran not only the 25k, but also
the 100k and 50k in such warm conditions. An extra special congratulation to Doug
McKeever, who returned to racing after a 10-year hiatus. Doug is a pioneer of
the sport and it is because of people like him that not only make trail racing
possible with volunteering, etc., but are also a tremendous source of
inspiration and a tribute to the longevity of the sport.</span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9P1YBbsljmyd9dJWEGUMTA_ioJ1PTFbaXOv3enajz7RgqNQXvLZwMDCMRNBO3ASb11A8_vtArbMR0ZnnYqAd6DScpJ5cfEP2_14vxII3ZGottowHvvZt0nZY4LfMoIAoi3p6jQGhqgtw/s1600/7M2A8189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9P1YBbsljmyd9dJWEGUMTA_ioJ1PTFbaXOv3enajz7RgqNQXvLZwMDCMRNBO3ASb11A8_vtArbMR0ZnnYqAd6DScpJ5cfEP2_14vxII3ZGottowHvvZt0nZY4LfMoIAoi3p6jQGhqgtw/s320/7M2A8189.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I didn't embarrass myself this time and <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2017/04/return-to-rim.html" target="_blank">knock James out at the finish</a>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Thank you to James, the Rainshadow Running crew, and all the
volunteers who make these events so special. I realize that this is biased, but
the trail running community is the best and I just feel so blessed to be a part
of it and have so many good people in my life.</div>
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I have had consistent training for 8 weeks now thanks to the
help of <a href="http://primebellingham.com/" target="_blank">Kerry Gustafson</a>, <a href="http://alignchiropracticbellingham.com/" target="_blank">Chris Lockwood</a> and <a href="https://www.terraingym.com/" target="_blank">Tonia Boze</a>. A month out from Mont
Blanc I feel good both physically and mentally. Another two weeks of training
and we head to Europe.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc9Plzf3y2S7XuabWa1b8Y7geiuLYkaBlIlda-__hwXLSYVNU5daoVgPGNpUrP7hO2NhKyktvR7ie6QZx8u0ZSSEFWxW1qYsFvb0K-PmirUYv1lczetzhU7iid6ZgKoSIflnva5-LSxuo/s1600/7M2A8170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc9Plzf3y2S7XuabWa1b8Y7geiuLYkaBlIlda-__hwXLSYVNU5daoVgPGNpUrP7hO2NhKyktvR7ie6QZx8u0ZSSEFWxW1qYsFvb0K-PmirUYv1lczetzhU7iid6ZgKoSIflnva5-LSxuo/s320/7M2A8170.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Thank you for reading and for all the messages of support
and encouragement. They carry me far. </div>
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<u><b>Gear</b></u></div>
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Sunglasses: <a href="http://nativeyewear.com/" target="_blank">Native Eyewear</a></div>
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Shoes: <a href="https://www.sportiva.com/helios-sr.html" target="_blank">La Sportiva Helios SR</a></div>
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Pre-race fuel: <a href="https://trailbutter.com/" target="_blank">TrailButter</a> Dark Chocolate & Coffee</div>
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Body care: <a href="https://www.rocketpure.com/" target="_blank">Rocket Pure</a> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;">Friction Therapy Anti-Chafe <a href="https://www.rocketpure.com/store/" target="_blank">Balm & Sunscreen</a></span></div>
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-18698052664521646372017-04-24T09:29:00.000-07:002017-04-24T10:02:21.099-07:00Return to the Rim<div class="MsoNormal">
It was a cold and rainy Saturday morning about a month ago
in the throes of the PNW late winter, and I was dragging my feet trying to get
out the door for my run. I started watching Rainshadow Running <a href="http://www.rainshadowrunning.com/media.html" target="_blank">race videos</a> and
dreaming about the sun. I made a split-second decision to sign up for both the
Yakima Skyline Rim 25k and the Sun Mountain 25k. Not only are these races an
escape to a sunnier, dryer land, the timing aligns perfectly with my build-up
to the Mont Blanc Marathon on June 25<sup>th</sup>, all about a month apart. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of my self-improvement goals this year is to work on
being more comfortable being uncomfortable. With this in mind, Tad and I camped
out the night before the race. If you told 10 years ago Maria that she was
going to camp outside in the cold the night before a hard race she would have
laughed in your face while booking it to the nearest Holiday Inn. The low was a
cold 39 so we slept in the back of our Explorer on a platform Tad built, but
also pitched the tent for changing and stretching in the morning. Tad fit the
windows with Reflectix Insulation which helped keep it warm and prevented light
from coming in. We blew up the air mattress which made it comfortable, but only
left 6 inches above us when lying down. I wish I had a video of us crawling out
of the car at 1:00am to go to the bathroom. Other than feeling a bit claustrophobic,
it was cozy and comfortable until about 3:30am when the temperature really
dropped and I still struggled to keep warm. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnUNHxs60ZC7wu87KwjW6x4EdneAhhxrpOjVe7E6iS_H2mpCCAlxgkONVR4zxKGXsbL6Adz_3qMzyYV1yq_40wM4Z3NYuLY6-67kpkxbC56aEFk4C1F_7_nVsCFjl5-jlKH26v6qfyoh8/s1600/7M2A7488.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnUNHxs60ZC7wu87KwjW6x4EdneAhhxrpOjVe7E6iS_H2mpCCAlxgkONVR4zxKGXsbL6Adz_3qMzyYV1yq_40wM4Z3NYuLY6-67kpkxbC56aEFk4C1F_7_nVsCFjl5-jlKH26v6qfyoh8/s320/7M2A7488.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leading up the first climb.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I ran the Yakima 25k <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2016/04/yakima-skyline-rim-25k.htm" target="_blank">last year</a> so this time I knew what my legs
and feet were getting into. This race is noted in my brain as one of the hardest trail races I have ever
run with almost 5,000ft of gain in 15 miles. The weather this year was much
cooler and the trails less dusty which made racing condition more pleasant,
though James still required each runner to carry 40 ounces of water. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Side note: We went to the course two weeks ago to get some
sun and instead got rain, 60mph winds and the type of mud that sticks to your
shoes in 50 pound clumps. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwqQMavTIWaP-emZkv-3WQVpIW96U8TQcmMHNKmmkcj2Mkj-th3AapcK7GvCf0ler11o3bJhLdFMDErSQetpg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Epic sun (and video) fail.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is no crew access due to the remote nature of the
course. Tad started up the climb about 20 minutes before the start so I only
saw him in the first mile and then at the finish. But I knew I wasn’t going to
be alone out on the course. I knew Doug McKeever was going to be stationed at
5.5 miles providing runners with water and encouragement. I knew Glenn
Tachiyama was going to be taking pictures up on the ridge. I ran into Paige
Patillo at the Ellensburg Starbucks race morning so I knew smiling faces and
high-fives waited at the Roza Creek halfway aid station (and Tad screaming from
across the river, watching through his binoculars). <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It seems like I was surrounded by friends for the whole
race. The out-and-back course allowed runners coming down to cheer on runners
coming up. The cheers and encouragement from my fellow racers were so
appreciated. I tried to return the good juju, but I got to the point where I
was breathing to hard a wave or thumbs up would have to suffice.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Last year I started out very aggressively and paid for it on
the return trip. I kept that in mind this time and used the first 2,100ft climb
essentially as a warm up. I felt so much better on the return and was able to
run all but the extremely steep sections. I passed the 4<sup>th</sup> place man
heading back up and spotted the 3<sup>rd</sup> place man up ahead. I worked on
reeling him in the whole way back. Not until the finish did I realize it was
Sam Naney, husband of my friend and former La Sportiva teammate Alison Naney. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrPvqAc7N2pkMXadhGoLOJ-ODQf_rzinRmqBI9QlgiEivRhJo77NzIPXwMTu7TDwADLkZzgWbio0sQeG8Jc54OxACDZRz5kE8GwimyDlYr4NirGm6hSI1cDh8Ml6p3Nlv97OYAzdbjT-0/s1600/7M2A7566.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrPvqAc7N2pkMXadhGoLOJ-ODQf_rzinRmqBI9QlgiEivRhJo77NzIPXwMTu7TDwADLkZzgWbio0sQeG8Jc54OxACDZRz5kE8GwimyDlYr4NirGm6hSI1cDh8Ml6p3Nlv97OYAzdbjT-0/s400/7M2A7566.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I was so deep into “race mode” I totally forgot to let up at
the finish line for my high-five from James! This series of pictures embarrassingly
highlights the intensity of my finish. Sorry for almost dragging you straight to the
pizza, James!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi52htCt1I39TuuIbz-pI_Lg_H_jH8FfxWjavpON7ffwA9Lv_6reuzTGlr3tae7q0M3bdih_rEfTKG92wDRVAZzdsUl-z2nZxcDiZsHBLbof9viIRcj77ijKTUKD1ntlbOnH72aK2jJLYs/s1600/7M2A7551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi52htCt1I39TuuIbz-pI_Lg_H_jH8FfxWjavpON7ffwA9Lv_6reuzTGlr3tae7q0M3bdih_rEfTKG92wDRVAZzdsUl-z2nZxcDiZsHBLbof9viIRcj77ijKTUKD1ntlbOnH72aK2jJLYs/s320/7M2A7551.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMRXvpQL6et8OnqO0yIjTMcmcOBB-wiO99gY4Qt5zALDF11-5mplnO4JSmomc4PUMADg83afFUo81P960ivmGBGE05x4vE98CurHfpc3KerfEMEhJeOVKiVbJSDChoFQg3dpUe6FmN8Dw/s1600/7M2A7553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMRXvpQL6et8OnqO0yIjTMcmcOBB-wiO99gY4Qt5zALDF11-5mplnO4JSmomc4PUMADg83afFUo81P960ivmGBGE05x4vE98CurHfpc3KerfEMEhJeOVKiVbJSDChoFQg3dpUe6FmN8Dw/s320/7M2A7553.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lnpMykxfZNB6GmYop6whlOmHOlQwCIBfBZE_xoXJE8I8UArJhgWbK9DK28piWE1bcr5OfjArz4wchMNt4O3HFRIZt3T8Sw_P9AxUhpVEO0Iyro1qtzixOMZEJYm1JoV-aKXtgol5Dq4/s1600/7M2A7554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lnpMykxfZNB6GmYop6whlOmHOlQwCIBfBZE_xoXJE8I8UArJhgWbK9DK28piWE1bcr5OfjArz4wchMNt4O3HFRIZt3T8Sw_P9AxUhpVEO0Iyro1qtzixOMZEJYm1JoV-aKXtgol5Dq4/s320/7M2A7554.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I can always tell how good a race was by how terrible I feel
after. I felt pretty terrible after this one with the headache kicking in on
the way home. This morning, I can’t make any sudden movements without something
cramping. It was a good day.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Full results<a href="https://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=40088" target="_blank"> here</a>. </div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDAQMMyoOfoMnFeGIBvot2aiDhduxJj0j6JTxvpnsjQ_6__24F2aWrO1rOyJmm8AAJcVVYq15V0pYfPeMMbVICQpWQOsqpQYm863iP7eChKvr01ZgnoeKdadwLZSPI6hNRSCfxq2H19Q/s1600/image000000_04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDAQMMyoOfoMnFeGIBvot2aiDhduxJj0j6JTxvpnsjQ_6__24F2aWrO1rOyJmm8AAJcVVYq15V0pYfPeMMbVICQpWQOsqpQYm863iP7eChKvr01ZgnoeKdadwLZSPI6hNRSCfxq2H19Q/s320/image000000_04.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-29552171132937312872017-03-20T10:19:00.001-07:002017-03-20T11:33:37.656-07:00Ultra Debut: Chuckanut 50k<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUoFJ-6-HPvPVQUKQ7kZ0tSGdX3lpUSAGS_bRlIEgtrp0aTfUfy87UziMIbK8bxDTDxQT3zKkIBjxOuKYynkDd7USGX6X5Oxj4-L3UMtA1bluDDXUMNviu_w7gtJkh1qnbcwnfmETwm-k/s1600/IMG_20170318_071832-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUoFJ-6-HPvPVQUKQ7kZ0tSGdX3lpUSAGS_bRlIEgtrp0aTfUfy87UziMIbK8bxDTDxQT3zKkIBjxOuKYynkDd7USGX6X5Oxj4-L3UMtA1bluDDXUMNviu_w7gtJkh1qnbcwnfmETwm-k/s320/IMG_20170318_071832-01.jpeg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just another rainy Saturday morning <br />
with my training buddies Corrine and Nikki.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Since Krissy Moehl moved back to Bellingham she has become a
dear friend of mine. Over the course of the past year, I have heard of the excitement
building for the 25<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the Chuckanut 50k. Visions of
sky writers, balloons, fireworks and lots and lots of sparkles danced in the
planning committee’s heads. This was going to be an unforgettable event and I
wanted to be a part of it. But this time with a bib number pinned to my shirt.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We started training for the race in December. Tad studied
splits from racers past to get a feel of what we needed to do. We had
intentions of running each section of the course exactly as how I would in the
race. Per usual, we were going to be as dialed in as possible. But like most
things with running, rarely does training go as planned. This year’s
unprecedented snow really limited our ability to train on the course safely and
made workouts near impossible. I mentioned in my <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2017/02/fried-eggs-fragrance-lake.html" target="_blank">Fragrance Lake Half Marathon report</a> that I have been unable to get on a role with my training for a year
now. This frustrating pattern continues. Though Fragrance Lake went really well,
I had to take a couple days off prior to the race due to hip pain and then I
had to take a week off afterwards due to a high hamstring pain.<br />
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtuMXQ8fozPHwCDbWVnqsYiaIMOY9MmzzFJDQjQBAa9mKdI9bZzfiOks7y6qqlZigr9KNUmDfiJNZweVKvTeDr_EhMV02QOKhW4Fel39xlMOGtpjbtmqjud_iSVgG84rRkqQluQW4pKUQ/s1600/7M2A5459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtuMXQ8fozPHwCDbWVnqsYiaIMOY9MmzzFJDQjQBAa9mKdI9bZzfiOks7y6qqlZigr9KNUmDfiJNZweVKvTeDr_EhMV02QOKhW4Fel39xlMOGtpjbtmqjud_iSVgG84rRkqQluQW4pKUQ/s320/7M2A5459.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming down from the Ridge.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, as Chuckanut crept closer, my ambitious goals became
softer to the point we were like, okay, let’s just get to the starting line
healthy and have a good experience. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Because I missed or had to cut short several long runs, my
confidence leading up the race was really lacking. To be honest, I was terrified.
I have only raced two trail marathons in my life and the 50k distance really
intimidated me. I was worried about how my legs would feel - would I be able to
finish without pain, what was the right way to fuel, what was I going to wear?
So much to think about; it was exhausting. I started packing for the race two
weeks out…and I live here! #OCD #anxiety<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrzA8cVLc9lAevm9qaAIjkhmaSSXmQikYrCFk67wIdwxtm_bWuO30PSnUcfi9FCe-gGjyleUwxLFJtiTSO_BePT6iyx8TayH5jO5VZuVrFVA1_Nvtj_A-Uj7UgtTxaB1AwdmE2jbGmNbg/s1600/7M2A5129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrzA8cVLc9lAevm9qaAIjkhmaSSXmQikYrCFk67wIdwxtm_bWuO30PSnUcfi9FCe-gGjyleUwxLFJtiTSO_BePT6iyx8TayH5jO5VZuVrFVA1_Nvtj_A-Uj7UgtTxaB1AwdmE2jbGmNbg/s320/7M2A5129.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start Line Smiles with Chuckanut Champ Ladia.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was only the week before the race that the snow melted
from the course. Tad and I went up on Monday to run the Ridge because I haven’t
been able to get on it for a couple of months. It was surprisingly dry and in
great condition. However, these conditions were quick to change as the night
before the race brought downpours that absolutely trashed the Chuckanut trails
into a muddy slip and slide obstacle course. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Racers were greeted race morning in true PNW fashion: 43
degrees and steady rain. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since I am in no shape to race the lead women, who are some
of the nation’s finest talent, my race execution was to just run my own race. I
really wanted my first ultra to be a positive experience, without any major catastrophes
and maybe even have a little fun along the way. I let everyone take off and stayed
a controlled 7:00-7:10 pace on the way out on the Interurban trail, knowing
that the key was having legs for the return 10k. As someone who usually races
half marathons to 25k, I felt my biggest challenge was to just stay calm and
patient and not let my anxiety have a voice. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwMzO8g3m-phoU0Mc8g_xUS7hxawZzxMH0SuXLQWIFq8VD_PWpaqNgfkK4hM9ie3E9P4SUjDdRmoC45qz67Q02J3uBJFZPriSArv-7AW2CpmqAiXet2ECVRZbkGdq_RDtJI88fTqTalQ/s1600/7M2A5333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwMzO8g3m-phoU0Mc8g_xUS7hxawZzxMH0SuXLQWIFq8VD_PWpaqNgfkK4hM9ie3E9P4SUjDdRmoC45qz67Q02J3uBJFZPriSArv-7AW2CpmqAiXet2ECVRZbkGdq_RDtJI88fTqTalQ/s320/7M2A5333.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crawling up Cleator with Corrine</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
At aid #1, I took off my <a href="http://www.sportiva.com/activity/activity-hiking/hail-jacket-womens.html" target="_blank">Hail Jacket</a> and traded my handheld for
a vest. My adventure through the middle 18 miles was pretty uneventful. I ran
mostly alone, completely comfortably, and never experienced any lows. You know
that song from The Band, “Up On Cripple Creek”? Well, I had the lyric, “When I
get off of this mountain, you know where I wanna go…” playing in my head. I
just kept moving, never once having to walk until the steep sections of
Chinscraper, which is where I felt my strongest. I passed a lot of men and one
woman who informed me I was now in 5<sup>th</sup> position.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYm8kFOvBDyXTQ_nLXTZ8MUzgYFR5jSAXV2bbPWFj_QU0LG0giXoO9DhrfrZ6A20Vuy4GRsK6wZGUkkZsOGSCTwUOk38XuDxsBPYulV9QEWUgoY35yoHzoax_KRhh2kQh-fw-bqqU8-zQ/s1600/7M2A5620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYm8kFOvBDyXTQ_nLXTZ8MUzgYFR5jSAXV2bbPWFj_QU0LG0giXoO9DhrfrZ6A20Vuy4GRsK6wZGUkkZsOGSCTwUOk38XuDxsBPYulV9QEWUgoY35yoHzoax_KRhh2kQh-fw-bqqU8-zQ/s320/7M2A5620.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"When I get off of this mountain..."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
My one kryptonite was my Reynaud’s Syndrome. My hands became
so numb even though I had handwarmers. Once handwarmers get wet they are
useless and then my hands are useless. I couldn’t open any GU’s or drink any
water from Lost Lake down to the last aid station. I wasn’t able to put my
gloves back on after trying to unzip my pack pocket and needed assistance from
aid station volunteers to help me put my gloves back on. (Thank you, Michael!)</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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I flowed back down Fragrance Lake Road to the final aid
station where I was to meet Tad to trade back my vest for the handheld for the
final 10k. I yelled that my hands were too numb to take the handheld and that I
was so thirsty, but my mouth was too numb to drink water. Tad had to hold a
bottle and feed me like a baby bird. He opened two GU’s for me which I held in
each hand and kept my vest on for the final stretch. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuUROzGzOxumLkphu_6DrUUOzy0ZkPmZXm1s8o6yj_1uxOqSg7EAZ-x7aCzbgoz4s_LY8VnVTfL8tBWvrgVO-Dn1ziNnSF_whNggyJIphDI4XJhrCDfvodOQgyqVE7GdNnXxf63qwOe_U/s1600/7M2A5685.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuUROzGzOxumLkphu_6DrUUOzy0ZkPmZXm1s8o6yj_1uxOqSg7EAZ-x7aCzbgoz4s_LY8VnVTfL8tBWvrgVO-Dn1ziNnSF_whNggyJIphDI4XJhrCDfvodOQgyqVE7GdNnXxf63qwOe_U/s320/7M2A5685.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First ultra - DONE!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I felt pretty strong coming in, only frustrated with losing
time stopping at the road crossing for cars. I struggled to keep pace the final
mile, but made it to the finish line as 5<sup>th</sup> woman, with all my limbs
intact and a smile on my face. Goals met. The whole race I kept telling myself
that I only had to run 30 miles because the final 1+ miles are just excitement and
adrenaline. Turns out, that didn’t happen. There was no magical energy source
that usually comes at the end of the race. It was just, “get me to the damn finish
chute already!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVrku5bTQ7p26k2_iHpoj1UG3yniFSO2i3bYZae2s380gSGXaJBMXOCe-hJRmbKduc2EZXzmR4wFHnDiMi23gPYTd2J1lCuz8QFlwkAMioM7cdmG-DXf0qkZu0eTY4QUapi4nHbqSA24/s1600/hellothereyou-170318-0047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVrku5bTQ7p26k2_iHpoj1UG3yniFSO2i3bYZae2s380gSGXaJBMXOCe-hJRmbKduc2EZXzmR4wFHnDiMi23gPYTd2J1lCuz8QFlwkAMioM7cdmG-DXf0qkZu0eTY4QUapi4nHbqSA24/s320/hellothereyou-170318-0047.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Booth shot 2 minutes after the finish.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Full results <a href="http://www.buduracing.com/race-results-inset.php?eid=1522" target="_blank">here</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Overall, I am very pleased with my first Chuckanut 50k, my
ultra debut. I am so incredibly thankful that I was able to run the whole race
pain-free (hip and hamstring were fine and I’m feeling pretty good two days
later!), considering that I couldn’t run 60 seconds 2.5 weeks ago without pain.
It was a positive experience surrounded by my amazing Bellingham community and
friends. </div>
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As they say, you never forget your first time.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Congratulations to EVERYBODY who crossed the finish line
from 1<sup>st</sup> place to last; this was no easy feat in many regards and took
perseverance, strength and a good sense of humor. Well done!<o:p></o:p></div>
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THANK YOU… <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_HWWiC53eEeHmlnFx_ryYLZuf7-lksPoZIx3SmNfdTqLRXREB8wdCwtc_tYcGyt4ZOveU_47RETcbd0kXyyLa2l2wQu0X9APcvxkM_qS8GLZiLRRfnceo4gt7gpWlnzlFCZ_4nRmdIM0/s1600/IMG_2401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_HWWiC53eEeHmlnFx_ryYLZuf7-lksPoZIx3SmNfdTqLRXREB8wdCwtc_tYcGyt4ZOveU_47RETcbd0kXyyLa2l2wQu0X9APcvxkM_qS8GLZiLRRfnceo4gt7gpWlnzlFCZ_4nRmdIM0/s320/IMG_2401.JPG" width="240" /></a>Krissy and her team of co-race directors: Alina Prendiville,
Kevin Douglas, Tyler Pouley. <o:p></o:p></div>
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All of the wonderful aid station volunteers, especially
Michael Plummer and CamE Tasker, and to all those from the community who came out to cheer. It means so much!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Tad, <i>the</i> world’s
best spectator…and coach, and photographer, and pack mule, and husband, and crew,
etc. I love you!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Kerry Gustafson of <a href="http://primebellingham.com/" target="_blank">PRiME Massage and Sports Medicine</a> and Dr.
Chris Lockwood of <a href="http://alignchiropracticbellingham.com/" target="_blank">Align Chiropractic</a>. I
am infinitely grateful for all the time these two have put into me. Seriously
two of my favorite people!<o:p></o:p></div>
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My training partners (Nikki Vander Wiele, Scarlett Graham,
Corrine Malcolm, Andrew Taylor, Christian Blankenship) who met me every
Saturday morning since December at 8:00am at the bottom of Cleator Road to go
up and down Fragrance lake over and over because the rest of the course was
covered in snow.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhncngNJdQC0NxJmlaGG_xvpjB325M8lYnyofhgmWneHqIZP_GvYYDCvdViV6JCJLofASryxKNITW3vqjmVIJqgAy2BJIu54u_sts1M0oSix3zFPWGT2t__4Gy46b5fqrWRyhmNxJHGvQ4/s1600/IMG_0038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhncngNJdQC0NxJmlaGG_xvpjB325M8lYnyofhgmWneHqIZP_GvYYDCvdViV6JCJLofASryxKNITW3vqjmVIJqgAy2BJIu54u_sts1M0oSix3zFPWGT2t__4Gy46b5fqrWRyhmNxJHGvQ4/s320/IMG_0038.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hanging out with my gorgeous BDP teammates at the after party. <br />
PC: Courtney Olsen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
…and to La Sportiva (race shoe: <a href="http://www.sportiva.com/helios-sr.html" target="_blank">La Sportiva Helios SR</a>),
<a href="http://www.terraingym.com/" target="_blank">Terrain Gym</a>, <a href="http://trailbutter.com/" target="_blank">Trail Butter</a>, <a href="https://nativeyewear.com/" target="_blank">Native Eyewear</a>, <a href="http://bioskinfit.com/" target="_blank">BioSkin</a>, <a href="http://onatreats.com/" target="_blank">Ona Treats</a> and <a href="https://www.rocketpure.com/" target="_blank">Rocket Pure</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What’s next? I want to get the hell off Chuckanut Mountain and
go find some sun! I will be racing <a href="http://www.rainshadowrunning.com/" target="_blank">Rainshadow Running</a>’s Yakima Skyline Rim 25k
and Sun Mountain 25k in preparation for the Mont Blanc Marathon in Chamonix,
France on June 25<sup>th</sup>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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iRunFar: <a href="http://www.irunfar.com/2017/03/this-week-in-running-march-20-2017.html" target="_blank">This Week in Running March 20, 2017</a> <o:p></o:p></div>
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-31152834238552522792017-02-12T08:24:00.000-08:002017-02-15T06:40:33.777-08:00Fried Eggs & Fragrance Lake<div class="MsoNormal">
I woke up this morning unsure of how my first race of the
year would unfold. Of course, I would like to say that my training has gone seamlessly and
without setbacks, but that is far from the truth. I am still struggling to get rolling
and have consistently good workouts. I am still struggling with inconvenient
aches and pains and tightness that interfere with any semblance of speedwork. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Add to that snowpocalypse 2017 and this winter’s training
has been nothing to write home about. This week was especially frustrating
because the Pacific Northwest got hit with another freak snowstorm. Six inches
of snow at sea level made it impossible to run without slipping or pulling an
adductor. I tried on Monday and aggravated my hip flexor. Between
that pain and the ridiculous amount of snow and slush that accumulated, there
seemed no way that I would race this weekend. The last thing I wanted to do was
really injure myself and be out of the Chuckanut 50k, my debut at the distance, now only five weeks away.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigLaIok8FWvGgazRXgjbPLpj3GJ_jNurbiupzVxAmSgQ31vxY3jST7vib03A5OhemH339334mzHRfY4nivxDiydu3WL7DzprafXvKXn4pjcbrnbcCZYXu9SUwaDU7RgBGVgwg5qgM2HcA/s1600/7M2A4485.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigLaIok8FWvGgazRXgjbPLpj3GJ_jNurbiupzVxAmSgQ31vxY3jST7vib03A5OhemH339334mzHRfY4nivxDiydu3WL7DzprafXvKXn4pjcbrnbcCZYXu9SUwaDU7RgBGVgwg5qgM2HcA/s320/7M2A4485.jpg" width="320" /></a>But on Thursday a weather miracle happened: a warm wind blew
in and the temperature rose 20 degrees in a half hour. Then it started
raining. The snow was melting at such a fast pace, sidewalks turned into
streams and we could finally see the Prius. It looked like racing was going to
be a possibility. Tad and I checked out the <a href="http://www.bellinghamtrail.com/p/fragrance-lake-10k20k.html" target="_blank">Fragrance Lake Half Maratho</a>n course
on Friday for any remaining snow and ice. The trails were - amazingly - all clear. I was almost hoping they would still be covered so I wouldn't be able to race. Now, I had to make a decision when I wasn't confident in how I'd be able to perform. I planned to warm up for the
race, see how my hip felt and then decide.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today’s pre-race breakfast was fried eggs and potatoes.
There is nothing that makes me giddier than a fried egg cooked just enough to
have a beautiful runny yolk. As I cracked my first egg in the pan, I busted the
yolk. Damnit! I was careful to not damage the second, but when I went to flip,
I saw a steam of bright yellow ooze across the bottom of the pan. Nooo! My
plate of eggs ended up being a complete mess. My immediate reaction was to assign a foretelling of the race to my eggs and think "this race isn't going to go well". I added
salt and pepper and a roasted purple potato. It was delicious. It doesn’t matter
that your eggs are not cooked to perfection or Instagram-worthy; they can still
taste good. I left the table with this comforting thought and took it with me
to the start line.</div>
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All systems were go after warming up and feeling oddly good for a change.
After some course briefing from race director and 200-mile mastermind Candice
Burt of <a href="http://www.destinationtrailrun.com/" target="_blank">Destination Trails</a>, we were off. David Laney led the way, stringing the
pack out quickly before starting the ascent up Chuckanut mountain. I started
out per usual and let the crazies go screaming out to try to keep up with
David. Once the climb started, I made my way into the men’s chase pack and
worked with them up to Fragrance Lake. The recent storm left many trees down
across the trail which required a quick decision to
go over or under. My short legs struggled to get over the big ones and I had to
use my upper body strength to pull myself over. But then there were some where
I could stoop low enough to scramble under. Either way, it slowed things down but kept things interesting.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Kabax4nKcqHKxHVfKUeRUhPgUq38K33F3K-s8blqkY42mz1Vhg6oREOw1IHtZnWX5QqDFWOO4nrmWrGXo7251DAxx5y19VPEQE0AgkwEG3uRzx14HpavlpUhg-m-tH8gYhaEFiJFeCY/s1600/IMG_2358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Kabax4nKcqHKxHVfKUeRUhPgUq38K33F3K-s8blqkY42mz1Vhg6oREOw1IHtZnWX5QqDFWOO4nrmWrGXo7251DAxx5y19VPEQE0AgkwEG3uRzx14HpavlpUhg-m-tH8gYhaEFiJFeCY/s320/IMG_2358.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Awesome handcrafted wooden awards from <a href="http://www.elevationculture.com/" target="_blank">Elevation Culture</a>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I felt strong from start to finish. I could switch
gears efficiently and keep pushing without feeling any fatigue. Two weeks out from the race was a planned down week and the week before I scrapped my double days and workouts because of
the snow so I was feeling the advantages of rest. It’s amazing; you should try it.
I actually passed and pulled away from
two men on the Ridge. Those of you training for the Chuckanut 50k know how
challenging the Chuckanut Ridge trail is so I was thrilled that maybe I’m
finally getting the hang of it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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When I crossed the finish line I was stoked that my time was
the same as last year despite the extra challenging trail conditions and being
in worse shape. I am thankful that the weather cooperated and my body responded
so well to treatments from <a href="http://alignchiropracticbellingham.com/" target="_blank">Chris </a>and <a href="http://primebellingham.com/" target="_blank">Kerry </a>that I could race. This was a big
confidence boost, one I desperately needed going into the final weeks of
training for the 50k. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Full results <a href="https://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=41792#" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
I am also thankful that my yolks cracked because it is a
good reminder that just because life isn’t perfect and running isn’t constant progression, doesn’t mean that the results can’t be good. The
best thing I can do is believe and stick to my 2017 motto: let failure be an
option. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihp7YAY5okXqAwoZMEV2RMSCzPzvuv-kW80I7Y9k_R9tA6TZ9xjw8KLHZaDLvAFUz0_GHyfBrYiZ1AqSXxvqvziFf5RMKyCJC9QDJPifWfSbNJFHVXbFIy3cIctfmcOyw3Leu2UEqFMQE/s1600/7M2A4539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihp7YAY5okXqAwoZMEV2RMSCzPzvuv-kW80I7Y9k_R9tA6TZ9xjw8KLHZaDLvAFUz0_GHyfBrYiZ1AqSXxvqvziFf5RMKyCJC9QDJPifWfSbNJFHVXbFIy3cIctfmcOyw3Leu2UEqFMQE/s320/7M2A4539.jpg" width="213" /></a>I want to give a shout out to my 2017 team of sponsors who continue to encourage me and support me on and off the trails, regardless of my performance. They believe in me as much as I believe in them.</div>
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.sportiva.com/" target="_blank">La Sportiva</a> North America</li>
<li><a href="http://www.bioskin.com/" target="_blank">BioSkin</a> Performance, Preventative & Post-injury Bracing</li>
<li><a href="https://nativeyewear.com/" target="_blank">Native Eyewear</a></li>
<li>Bogg's <a href="http://trailbutter.com/" target="_blank">Trail Butter</a></li>
<li><a href="https://onatreats.com/" target="_blank">Ona</a> Real Food Honey Treats</li>
<li><a href="http://www.terraingym.com/" target="_blank">Terrain Gym</a></li>
<li><a href="http://alignchiropracticbellingham.com/" target="_blank">Align Chiropractic</a></li>
<li><a href="http://primebellingham.com/" target="_blank">PRiME Massage & Sports Medicine</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.rocketpure.com/" target="_blank">Rocket Pure</a> Natural Body Care for Athletes</li>
<li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/BellinghamDistanceProject/" target="_blank">Bellingham Distance Project</a></li>
</ul>
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<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
iRunFar: This Week in Running <a href="http://www.irunfar.com/2017/02/this-week-in-running-february-13-2017.html" target="_blank">February 13, 2017</a><br />
AthleteBiz: <a href="https://www.athletebiz.us/blog/valentines-day-2017/" target="_blank">Valentine's Day Feature</a><br />
Trail Run Project: <a href="https://www.trailrunproject.com/blog/3703/8-pros-share-best-trail-running-tips" target="_blank">8 Pros Share Best Trail Running Tips</a><br />
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-50760950512616050422016-10-17T08:20:00.001-07:002016-11-30T06:51:23.437-08:00Where Have all my Posts Gone?I have struggled to find the motivation to keep my personal blog up-to-date over the past 4 months. However, I have been making monthly contributions to <a href="http://trailsisters.net/" target="_blank">Trail Sisters</a>. You can find all of my posts <a href="https://www.trailsisters.net/contributor-maria-dalzot/" target="_blank">here</a> if you are interested. I speak candidly about dealing with my anxiety, recently getting married and other happenings that have made this year one of soul-searching, recovering, rebuilding and overcoming.<br />
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyaFKBQ-xEdbkCqYgS5b0XwALiBXXg6faESBBUOfn3tIoZOhWJreLioXaDc2F6IBQHHHkIJeyacx7VXIqSb2owLouQCnN67YHnPmwAAPQ4zn4mzAv494L0-hEb7nafeMdV6V8cWAOtLf0/s1600/Burst_stack_114162424921242_3-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyaFKBQ-xEdbkCqYgS5b0XwALiBXXg6faESBBUOfn3tIoZOhWJreLioXaDc2F6IBQHHHkIJeyacx7VXIqSb2owLouQCnN67YHnPmwAAPQ4zn4mzAv494L0-hEb7nafeMdV6V8cWAOtLf0/s320/Burst_stack_114162424921242_3-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer Soul Searching</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-16949380590370765792016-06-22T08:07:00.000-07:002016-06-22T08:07:45.822-07:002016 World Long Distance Mountain Running Championships<div class="MsoNormal">
I dropped out at mile 16 of the
<a href="http://www.gm4o.si/en.html" target="_blank">World Long Distance Mountain Running Championships in Podbrdo</a>, Slovenia. Mile
16 crossed over and through the small mountain village of Hudajuzna, the lowest
elevation point in the race. Ironically, my lowest point was at the lowest
point.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At the start of the race, there was
a 500 meter prologue. We were instructed that after they counted down, instead
of taking off, everyone would jog together in a glomerulus cluster so that
spectators could cheer us on before heading up the mountain. It was hard to see
the road due to all of the bodies pressing together and I caught my left foot
in a cattle grid. My ankle twisted, but it was no big deal. But, once we hit
the trail, I did it again and again. Since late March I have been dealing with
a tight hamstring/glute/hip flexor that has affected my gait and movement in my
lower leg. My guess is that residual tightness made my ankle not able to
recover and so it just kept getting weaker and weaker during the race. This was
extremely unfortunate because the next 42 kilometers was on an aggressive,
technical and relentless course with over 11,000 feet of gain. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghG_hISQ_kYZ731Sfd5odIAe9wSyTe2qpK8ogVTVZZ7T5jqXfoc6G7VvltIDoSviuNb3s-6OjFe7aBHl96x1qf2fxsP6XiimvBsZcUqUuLiSPaawaIYfeQ-gmX8jJMefR6M17aJy7Ma78/s1600/IMG_20160617_165832-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghG_hISQ_kYZ731Sfd5odIAe9wSyTe2qpK8ogVTVZZ7T5jqXfoc6G7VvltIDoSviuNb3s-6OjFe7aBHl96x1qf2fxsP6XiimvBsZcUqUuLiSPaawaIYfeQ-gmX8jJMefR6M17aJy7Ma78/s320/IMG_20160617_165832-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team 'Merica</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first climb started on a wide
mountain jeep road. I worked on staying controlled and was sandwiched between
my teammates, Cam and Anita. We gradually made our way up and then at about 5k
there were short, steep dips. Every time I descended I felt sharp pain in my
ankle and it made me rely heavily on my right leg. I felt lop-sided and
unstable and was unable to navigate the technical terrain efficiently. I was
working extra hard to get my body to move forward. I have never felt injury
pain in a race before that made me question my ability to finish. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I made it up and over the highest
peak and then started the long technical descent. On my first step down, my
ankle just bent over and I would fall sideways catching myself with my hands.
It was really ridiculous. My body felt so beaten up I felt like I was finishing
up a race, not 9 miles into a marathon. Three miles into the descent I took an
extra second at the aid station to try to regroup. Cam powered ahead and Anita
was long gone. She mastered the descent like a boss. I started walk jogging to
try to loosen up my legs and GU'd desperately. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCY3UGhkWTDi3HUu2-AZB0c5nNC9KpdFM8FYmUn-gU-6rcJjAEjHGseafj0PL8k_DZKujGqUSZ2XRjF3TNC1iKRhDjZfXYgUksay44cSTOkptTIoMOCt1N3uGsg6H_x-7B-DL-tm67LYI/s1600/IMG_20160617_183312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCY3UGhkWTDi3HUu2-AZB0c5nNC9KpdFM8FYmUn-gU-6rcJjAEjHGseafj0PL8k_DZKujGqUSZ2XRjF3TNC1iKRhDjZfXYgUksay44cSTOkptTIoMOCt1N3uGsg6H_x-7B-DL-tm67LYI/s320/IMG_20160617_183312.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opening Ceremony Festivities.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At mile 12 I started to have Tad
sightings. There was a man walking towards me with sunglasses and a backwards
hat. "Tad! Tad!" I yelled ahead. He ignored me. "Tad, it's
me!" It was like a bad dream. As I got closer I realized it was just a
mirage. After what seemed like forever, I made it to Hudajuzna. There was a
check point and somebody yelling out names on a loud speaker. I heard my name
and wanted to just crawl in a hole. I knew my day was done. There was no questioning
it. I walked around looking lost and confused until Tad finally found me. A
sweet Slovenian grandma gave me a hug, kissed my cheek and gave me a chair to
sit in. Kristina, my La Sportiva teammate, ran by and powered through to score
for our team. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVAXm0xASR-lyD_en5jkKvqbnrPMYCcJ-yB6Q_tDTy5iIejPyDgjLOMNMc_G2XC0FLQbN6D6lT7eOWeCudRqlsCvbSZ5iCcZebNvZwH6t1Zv67Vc5ru2dTeSeiskdOnJr3JZ5Ik1xbTI4/s1600/race.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVAXm0xASR-lyD_en5jkKvqbnrPMYCcJ-yB6Q_tDTy5iIejPyDgjLOMNMc_G2XC0FLQbN6D6lT7eOWeCudRqlsCvbSZ5iCcZebNvZwH6t1Zv67Vc5ru2dTeSeiskdOnJr3JZ5Ik1xbTI4/s320/race.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breathtaking views and not even to the top.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My U.S. teammates are some of the
most awesome people and amazing athletes. Our men placed 5<sup>th</sup> and the
women 4<sup>th</sup>. Full results<a href="http://remote.timingljubljana.si/timing/rezultati.aspx?IDtekme=3006&tip=B" target="_blank"> here</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The day of the race, I accepted
what happened. It is what it is. It happens to everybody. In the scheme of
life, this is no big deal. But as each day passes, I get more and more
overwhelmed with grief. I feel terribly embarrassed and feel the need to
apologize to everybody for not representing our country well. I wake up in the
middle of the night and obsess over what I could have done differently in the
race, in my training. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I feel like I have been forcing
races, workouts and runs for a couple months now. It is time to hit the reset
button. Tad and I are getting married this weekend and then going to West
Virginia to spend time with my family. It really sucks, but we decided to skip
the U.S. Mountain Running Championships in Lincoln, New Hampshire. My body
needs time to heal and I do not want to line up for another sub-par
performance. I don't think I can handle it mentally. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A good aspect that has come out
of struggling the past couple months is it really has made me reflect on last
year. I had an awesome spring and summer last year. When you're in it, it is so
easy to bounce from race to race and not appreciate successes. You always want
more and therefore are always looking to the next event. But I am savoring it
now.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I can't express my gratitude
enough for all of your wishes of support, encouragement and understanding. Many
thanks to Nancy Hobbs and Jason Bryant for the opportunity to compete among the
world's best in one of the most beautiful places in the world. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Pz56wAQ1O-v5wN19MF2_P-PbCKya9ZxBw0CV3dODJBxorfAjrsJgPFNFuE-zSXYHNWFLcif6VYVAbsa-iVm6a0BNdjgFZlRZRg9ZMAYbrh0jOU87UetIxN4RVXabdfnpRjbBy6xqR2w/s1600/IMG_20160617_193547_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Pz56wAQ1O-v5wN19MF2_P-PbCKya9ZxBw0CV3dODJBxorfAjrsJgPFNFuE-zSXYHNWFLcif6VYVAbsa-iVm6a0BNdjgFZlRZRg9ZMAYbrh0jOU87UetIxN4RVXabdfnpRjbBy6xqR2w/s320/IMG_20160617_193547_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nano Hobbs, one of my favorite people.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thank you to <a href="http://www.sportiva.com/" target="_blank">La Sportiva</a>, <a href="https://nativeyewear.com/" target="_blank">NativeEyewear</a>,<a href="http://trailbutter.com/" target="_blank"> Trail Butter</a>, <a href="http://www.bioskin.com/" target="_blank">Bio Skin</a>, <a href="https://www.rocketpure.com/" target="_blank">Rocket Pure</a> and <a href="https://www.enduropacks.com/" target="_blank">Enduro Packs</a> for supporting me,
fueling me, hydrating me, protecting me and healing me. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thank you to my Bellingham dream
team <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Terrain-Gym-227077037306608/" target="_blank">Terrain Gym</a>,<a href="http://primebellingham.com/" target="_blank"> Prime Massage</a> and <a href="http://alignchiropracticbellingham.com/" target="_blank">Align Chiropractic</a> and my<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BellinghamDistanceProject/" target="_blank"> Bellingham Distance Project</a> teammates. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
For more pictures of my European
adventure, check out my Instagram account @mariadalzot.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAJnclvPLlbSgRr7Y2KtgHq73VT2gX-_yWr03wfur3CF4Wu-EpMIoQxTYmDf9ROoxby9xLbug10OycbcuEBU98b5fHDAypa6Sj5ZpO2BegR8gAbIFOp4d8FhShM7KdPZhCndxP1k5EZE/s1600/IMG_20160617_213500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAJnclvPLlbSgRr7Y2KtgHq73VT2gX-_yWr03wfur3CF4Wu-EpMIoQxTYmDf9ROoxby9xLbug10OycbcuEBU98b5fHDAypa6Sj5ZpO2BegR8gAbIFOp4d8FhShM7KdPZhCndxP1k5EZE/s320/IMG_20160617_213500.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Planking with Peter at 9:30 pm.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-41452676285157946202016-05-12T18:26:00.000-07:002016-05-12T18:26:11.462-07:00Spring Setbacks: Training Update<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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In just over a month I will be
running the 13<sup>th</sup> <a href="http://www.gm4o.si/en.html" target="_blank">World Long Distance Mountain Running Championships</a>
in Podbrdo, Slovenia.
The Gorski Marathon has 9,000 feet of elevation gain and loss over 42
kilometers (26 miles). Our U.S. team leader (and my fellow La Sportiva
teammate), Jason Bryant, ran the course in 2011. You can read about his
experience <a href="http://mountainrunning.com/community/race-report/jason-bryant-slovenia" target="_blank">here</a>.<a href="http://mountainrunning.com/community/race-report/jason-bryant-slovenia"></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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The last four mile climb of the
course is called “the hour of truth.” It has five aid stations and a doctor. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwuCouhLQFsE2FPDmNPDFRBvAQDGm5qfg5YH0xb_Cv5BAFoH686rLo4lGc3eneSPspL1Dak9BTb3v14pnswbafcLwb4nuVEEo7bv51cZp6if9-lSvNxlIhohHTiZTjIIFExP_E_VX-L0w/s1600/Gorski+Marathon+Profile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwuCouhLQFsE2FPDmNPDFRBvAQDGm5qfg5YH0xb_Cv5BAFoH686rLo4lGc3eneSPspL1Dak9BTb3v14pnswbafcLwb4nuVEEo7bv51cZp6if9-lSvNxlIhohHTiZTjIIFExP_E_VX-L0w/s400/Gorski+Marathon+Profile.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Gorski Marathon Elevation Profile with Aid Stations.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
To prepare for the two brutal
climbs I have been increasing the elevation gain and loss of my long runs. Our
local trail, Pine & Cedar, is infamous in Bellingham as a relentless climb
of 1.5 miles with 1350 ft elevation gain. I started doing repeats of P&C at
the end of my long runs. I was feeling really good physically and began feeling
confident in my potential to perform well at Worlds. After
several weeks of consistent training, lots of vert and high mileage, my
left hamstring, glute, psoas and hip flexor revolted. Tightness overtook my leg and prevented a normal gait. I took some time off and a down
week to allow all of my muscles to rest and calm down.
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<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp_9ogDRZv3wxmusxmP2bWv1MQybjNWLOcqvvlO0ipLCMA-ag6mEitJgv81S4ln6ItRrf2QtZYG4hLew8DqjOFeZ6XUtXIIvBo3peNkrXSKRDsPfp4rYVIVw4rbo6EYhIrE68NS1PW0Pw/s1600/IMG_1000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp_9ogDRZv3wxmusxmP2bWv1MQybjNWLOcqvvlO0ipLCMA-ag6mEitJgv81S4ln6ItRrf2QtZYG4hLew8DqjOFeZ6XUtXIIvBo3peNkrXSKRDsPfp4rYVIVw4rbo6EYhIrE68NS1PW0Pw/s400/IMG_1000.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marching up Pine & Cedar.</td></tr>
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The Don't Fence Me In 30k in
Helena, Montana was on my racing schedule as soon as it was announced as
part of the 2016 La Sportiva Mountain Cup. It is my favorite race in the series
and we were excited to return to the beautiful trails of Helena for the third
year in a row. We made our flights, hotel and car reservations at the end of
February, but it wasn't until mid-March that I noticed that they had changed
the date of the race to the weekend prior to what was on the original schedule.
Unfortunately, even after incessant begging to the airlines, we were not able
to change the flights or get any money back. I was extremely disappointed in
the whole situation. Between the scheduling snafu and my leg holding me back,
Don't Fence Me In was not meant to be this year for whatever reason. I can tell
I am getting older and more mature when my response to setbacks is calm and
rational rather than emotional and reactive. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSTv3svOrK9vyufk83oVNloIPknytT_pY5S5NPRYivR6-nwWA1piibZ5aeWzO71GzpJ60iVuhkHCkkw9UVrNmFmjn2RDj9jw8hyphenhyphen4W_4rygqGL82uTMUTCNpwS1eAm3IWy72590L1htZJA/s1600/20160508_093619-01.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSTv3svOrK9vyufk83oVNloIPknytT_pY5S5NPRYivR6-nwWA1piibZ5aeWzO71GzpJ60iVuhkHCkkw9UVrNmFmjn2RDj9jw8hyphenhyphen4W_4rygqGL82uTMUTCNpwS1eAm3IWy72590L1htZJA/s400/20160508_093619-01.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recovering in the beauty of British Columbia</td></tr>
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After some down time and several
weeks of working consistently with my awesome <a href="http://alignchiropracticbellingham.com/" target="_blank">chiropractor</a> and <a href="http://primebellingham.com/" target="_blank">massage therapist</a>, my leg has loosened significantly and I feel re-energized for the
last training push before we leave for Europe. Other tools that I am using that
have been instrumental in my rehab are the <a href="http://bioskin.com/" target="_blank">Bio Skin</a> compression shorts and
hamstring sleeve. As soon as I am done with my run, I slip into Bio Skin
regardless of my outfit. Consistent recovery from training is just as important
as working out.
</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigFBdGcH7L9rChl26H62v32CFXWwkS4qFo-A4PABgFB7zcMnTSYSJ4IVc0mW3L4HhE7k8X0c4HsfRGvmh0ulrI2T5-waUOS_AuL-u1b6WsAdVne9JP_JpsTdAf1N9TnRuFAR6gFQmRgZU/s1600/Small-1347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigFBdGcH7L9rChl26H62v32CFXWwkS4qFo-A4PABgFB7zcMnTSYSJ4IVc0mW3L4HhE7k8X0c4HsfRGvmh0ulrI2T5-waUOS_AuL-u1b6WsAdVne9JP_JpsTdAf1N9TnRuFAR6gFQmRgZU/s320/Small-1347.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Always training in the Bio Skin <a href="http://www.bioskin.com/thigh-skin.html" target="_blank">Thigh Skin</a>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUgR-gHsFDxVcSW3F7NMxpKkNNcrRIgZG1km924t30aMz2OmVwr4bvH7iJZl1Rlx4dewX08RUVhv3Oz-tFn_kiGcQAOm1QmcrekNWZl1lAJ3gw3rrYjisVIf5_CxrYphi-ATu96hdGwoo/s1600/IMG_1919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUgR-gHsFDxVcSW3F7NMxpKkNNcrRIgZG1km924t30aMz2OmVwr4bvH7iJZl1Rlx4dewX08RUVhv3Oz-tFn_kiGcQAOm1QmcrekNWZl1lAJ3gw3rrYjisVIf5_CxrYphi-ATu96hdGwoo/s320/IMG_1919.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Re-hydrating with Enduro Packs <a href="http://www.enduropacks.com/products/electrolyte-spray" target="_blank">Electrolyte Spray.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I have had the opportunity to
test out <a href="http://www.enduropacks.com/" target="_blank">Enduro Packs</a>' Liquid Multi-Vitamin, L-Glutamine Recovery Complex and
Electrolyte Spray. As a Registered Dietitian, I aim to fulfill all of
my nutrient needs through a whole foods diet and recommend my clients do the
same. However, as an elite athlete I understand that specific nutrient needs
are higher during intense training periods and supplemental help may be needed
to maintain optimum health and efficient recovery. </div>
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<br /></div>
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I am so appreciative of my
awesome team of support and sponsors. Anyone who has seen me train or race
knows that I love my sunglasses so you can imagine my thrill when I was
accepted as an ambassador for <a href="https://nativeyewear.com/" target="_blank">Native Eyewear</a>. Not only do they make lenses that
will protect your eyes for any adventure, the folks at Native are stewards of
Mother Earth, making environmentally responsible products. The protective cases
are made with recycled water bottles and all of the packaging is made with
recycled cardboard and printed with soy-based inks. Protecting our playground is
extremely important to me and I am proud to represent a company that
prioritizes preservation. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7zjgJLbN5wCi8-fcEwxfOwvJEt8MfifJzx0sl1bOJxx1kvJM6lPjKO0R4PlNuij5sqgmhlenTUB5C9tVMZ8QxULSXhWqZvj6qCukP1z4s7kjAd2DckePa57gNHe-dlJLvAeAJ5ucE2SU/s1600/20160508_130256.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7zjgJLbN5wCi8-fcEwxfOwvJEt8MfifJzx0sl1bOJxx1kvJM6lPjKO0R4PlNuij5sqgmhlenTUB5C9tVMZ8QxULSXhWqZvj6qCukP1z4s7kjAd2DckePa57gNHe-dlJLvAeAJ5ucE2SU/s400/20160508_130256.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking onward through the <a href="https://nativeyewear.com/shop/sunglasses/throttle/throttle-asphalt-polarized-gray" target="_blank">Native THROTTLE<span class="trade">™</span></a>.
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-73539999956841911342016-04-17T17:27:00.000-07:002016-04-18T06:15:17.134-07:00Yakima Skyline Rim 25k<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<![endif]-->This weekend was Rainshadow
Running's 6<sup>th</sup> annual <a href="http://www.rainshadowrunning.com/yakima-skyline-25k.html#course" target="_blank">Yakima Skyline Rim 50k/25k</a>. I have not run a
Rainshadow Running event since the <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2012/12/my-first-25k-longest-race-to-date.html" target="_blank">Deception Pass 25k</a> in November of 2012, just
shortly after we moved to the PNW. I chose to run the Yakima 25k because it has
two 2 mile sections, each with 2,000 ft elevation gain (1,000 feet per mile) and
has a total 4500 feet ascent and descent. This mimics my big race of the summer
which is marathon distance in Europe with two 4 mile sections each with 4,000
feet elevation gain (1,000 feet per mile).
<br />
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<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvMmn4EJFhTmc1OGC0TPD7KD-zD1EndgqVRXcdkA6xznD6-gtZ_2B6VlmHYUtHF9xNN8obDkuBEqgCDEjDXxvvLnSgP5bSIkFM_IwB100Xkrpi6O1Y5Hec5W6cKAFgxXD8xKf1q8_iD9U/s1600/Yakima+Elevation+Profile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="83" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvMmn4EJFhTmc1OGC0TPD7KD-zD1EndgqVRXcdkA6xznD6-gtZ_2B6VlmHYUtHF9xNN8obDkuBEqgCDEjDXxvvLnSgP5bSIkFM_IwB100Xkrpi6O1Y5Hec5W6cKAFgxXD8xKf1q8_iD9U/s400/Yakima+Elevation+Profile.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yakima 25k Elevation Profile</td></tr>
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The race started at the Umtanum
Creek Recreation Area. The course was somewhat different than past years as it
started and finished with a flat half mile section. Due to the heat and sun
exposure, James requires all runners to carry 40 ounces of water. This seemed
like an excessive amount to me and felt extremely heavy as I put my vest on to
go to the starting line. James yelled 'Go!' and led us for 200
meters to the dirt road that would take us to the bridge across the Yakima River.
James likes to challenge me with his bridges. (If you don't know about my
bridge anxiety, read <a href="http://www.trailsisters.net/blog/2016/4/10/running-out-of-my-mind-facing-fear-anxiety-one-run-at-a-time" target="_blank">here</a>.)</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Starting the first climb in the only bit of shade.</td></tr>
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As soon as we crossed the bridge,
the trail turned into tight single-track and started climbing. I looked ahead
to see where I was: there were 2 guys out front and then there was a pack of 3
men just ahead of me. I started out pretty aggressive, hoping to be able to
stay with at least one of them so I was not running on my own the entire race.
Because of this, I felt like I was running harder than I would otherwise this
early in the race. Around 2 miles I passed one of the men. Now there were 3 of
us within 20 meters of each other. We ran this way for the duration of the
undulating jeep road which follows the ridge line and has stunning views of the
surrounding snow-capped Cascade Mountains. Just before the descent down to Roza
Creek, I pulled up on Chris Paterson and we introduced ourselves. (He ran the
50k the day before!) It was a short conversation because we soon hit the crazy
steep downhill with loose, dry rocks and sharp scrub brush. I'm glad I took a
GU because this section was hard to follow and took a lot of concentration. </div>
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There is only one aid station for
the 25k at the turn around at Roza Creek. There is no road access to this point
so the Rainshadow Running crew and volunteers had to cross the river by raft to
get supplies to the runners. Since there was no way of getting to me on the
course, Tad drove out to the turn-around and yelled encouragement from across
the river.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy to see Tad.</td></tr>
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Now the fun began! Remember when
I thought 40 ounces of water was excessive? Well, it wasn't and I thanked James
the whole way back. At sub-ultra distances, I rarely encounter climbs that are
so steep I have to walk, but this was one of them. Luckily, I had the cheers
and support of all the runners cautiously navigating their way down and Glenn
perched at the top with his camera. I found myself lulled into the power
hiking, but a voice in my head surprised me and told me to get going and start
running again. At this point, the guys ahead of me were long gone. The miles up
on the ridge were pretty lonely and I was hurting. I knew I was paying for my
aggressive first 5 miles. </div>
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On the final descent, I could
feel the bottom of my feet burning as I slid forward with every step. Before
the race I applied my <a href="https://www.rocketpure.com/" target="_blank">Rocket Pure</a> Friction Therapy Natural Anti-Chafe Balm to my
feet knowing that with the aggressive footing and heat, which I am not used to,
I needed to postpone blisters as long as possible. I wore the <a href="http://www.sportiva.com/products/footwear/mountain-running/helios-sr" target="_blank">La Sportiva HeliosSR</a> which is made for rocky, technical terrain because it has a forefoot rock
guard. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkyiFRhqtyzt0lYx33Wu7KS34yw70g86uswPAEB7-kFUNEy7QIPARbWojQ6slbmb50-7Gz7U2DuF0AgFpbAPlTUI3E1pyxoXe7buXLh8ugBjndkN9q73TsJCgITeN3UGrO6iATK2Xy40/s1600/IMG_1253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkyiFRhqtyzt0lYx33Wu7KS34yw70g86uswPAEB7-kFUNEy7QIPARbWojQ6slbmb50-7Gz7U2DuF0AgFpbAPlTUI3E1pyxoXe7buXLh8ugBjndkN9q73TsJCgITeN3UGrO6iATK2Xy40/s320/IMG_1253.jpg" width="227" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So excited for the high-five!</td></tr>
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Because I was nervous about the
bridge crossing, I instructed Tad to meet me there on the way back. At this point, I was so
tired and hot and ready to be done, I didn't care enough to have anxiety and
would have just as soon jumped into the cold, sparkling water below. I crossed
the finish line with the iconic high-five with James. I ended up 5<sup>th</sup>
overall and 1<sup>st</sup> woman. I know I am fit and ready for a good race,
but I never take a win for granted, especially because there was a solid field
of women competing including Jennifer Evans and Marlene Farrell.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<b>Top 5 Women: </b>(Full results <a href="http://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=35783">HERE</a>)</div>
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Maria Dalzot (2:28:10)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
Jennifer Evans (2:56:12)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
Marlene Farrell (3:00:59)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
Kim Carmel (3:02:45)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
Stephanie Gundel (3:05:37)</div>
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<br /></div>
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After rinsing off in the creek,
we enjoyed brick oven pizza and a huge plate of fresh fruits and vegetables as
we listened to music from the Pine Hearts and cheered on the finishers. If you
have never run a Rainshadow Running event yet, I suggest you do. They are some
of the best organized, most scenic and overall fun races in the Pacific
Northwest. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Stay tuned; the next couple
months are going to be adventure-packed! </div>
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<br /></div>
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Other Stuff of Interest:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
Have you checked out <a href="http://www.trailsisters.net/">TrailSisters.net</a>?
A female-driven site, this platform will share stories of training, adventure,
motivation and much more! As a contributor I am writing a series about what it
is like living and running with anxiety.
</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
Mark your calendar for the Northwest
Women's Trail Running Retreat September 15-19 in Bellingham, WA. Click <a href="http://pnwwomenstrailretreat.com/">HERE</a> for more info! <a href="http://pnwwomenstrailretreat.com/"></a></div>
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If you are interested in
purchasing some La Sportiva gear or other accessories like watches, sunglasses
and nutrition, visit my <a href="https://www.athletebiz.us/athletes/maria-dalzot/store">Athlete Biz store</a>.
By purchasing your gear from my store, not only do you get a discount, but I get
a portion of the profit to help fund my race expenses.</div>
<br />
<br />Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-23393123376767783382016-04-13T07:46:00.000-07:002016-04-13T07:46:05.127-07:00Trail SistersWhen <a href="http://ginalucrezi.com/" target="_blank">Gina Lucrezi</a> asked me to be a contributor for her new site, TrailSisters.net, I was thrilled. TrailSisters.net is a platform that will be used to inspire, motivate, educate and rejuvenate readers by doing what we are most passionate about: loving the trails, the outdoors and the community we share them with. I will be joining Gina, <a href="https://hillygoat.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Hillary Allen</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ashley.h.arnold" target="_blank">Ashley Hunter Arnold</a>, <a href="http://www.elinorfish.com/" target="_blank">Elinor Fish</a>, <a href="http://heidikumm.com/" target="_blank">Heidi Kumm</a>, <a href="http://livewellfinishstrong.com/" target="_blank">Bree Lambert</a> and <a href="http://krissymoehl.com/" target="_blank">Krissy Moehl</a>. This is a group of women that inspire me on and off the trails and it is an honor to be collaborating with them.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXR51ZE0VVrfmL81xUoBu8MR7zMmsTPCnYbVOBHiSuBqP0d9YeBuO1qxgrdDcy52NwfYBeKvL-Fg6_xCcaKyro4dQXxpRQ9arqg6XehvpPqP5PCQ0H_V3PgYznjg0LooSbxOCQfaBVVYM/s1600/IMG_1160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXR51ZE0VVrfmL81xUoBu8MR7zMmsTPCnYbVOBHiSuBqP0d9YeBuO1qxgrdDcy52NwfYBeKvL-Fg6_xCcaKyro4dQXxpRQ9arqg6XehvpPqP5PCQ0H_V3PgYznjg0LooSbxOCQfaBVVYM/s320/IMG_1160.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With fellow Trail Sister, Krissy, sailing down Mt. Si.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="entry-title entry-title-item p-name" data-content-field="title">
I decided to write candidly about a topic that is extremely personal. I have been living with chronic anxiety for about14 years and have experienced panic attacks since 8th grade. 'Running Out of My Mind: Facing Fear & Anxiety One Run at a Time', will be a series of posts addressing how anxiety has effected my running and life in general. Click <a href="http://www.trailsisters.net/blog/2016/4/10/running-out-of-my-mind-facing-fear-anxiety-one-run-at-a-time" target="_blank">HERE</a> to read PART 1. My hope is that by being transparent with my struggles you will gain
some insight into what it is like to live with anxiety, or if you have
anxiety yourself, to know that you are not alone.</div>
<div class="entry-title entry-title-item p-name" data-content-field="title">
<br /></div>
<div class="entry-title entry-title-item p-name" data-content-field="title">
Thanks for reading! </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-49735264984287618642016-03-13T14:16:00.000-07:002016-03-13T14:16:10.695-07:00Marin Ultra Challenge 25k<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</xml><![endif]-->The first race in the <a href="http://www.mountaincup.com/" target="_blank">2016 LaSportiva Mountain Cup</a> was the Marin Ultra Challenge 25k, hosted by Inside Trail
Racing in Sausalito, California. The course tours the beautiful Marin Headlands
with impressive views of Mt. Tamalpais and the Golden Gate Bridge. That's what
they say anyways. It was hard to see under my cap and hood with the rain
blowing sideways and the wind knocking me around. However, race director, Tim
Stahler, and his team of hard-core volunteers didn't let the weather deter them
from a top-notch event, simultaneously orchestrating a 50 miler, 50k <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and</i> a 25k!
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqloJnAJPsDtS7JgHUUz53aibCVh7aVKfob_UzXH8ehau9lF-Wbw8ZmNYP0aDPrUkhzUIIWfFDhyphenhyphenS3qjwKafdK30MgBYRdrc7-opXFv5SeARqWNg-ALpEHEZaxhydcEo9Z94d1uTPKiw8/s1600/elev+profile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqloJnAJPsDtS7JgHUUz53aibCVh7aVKfob_UzXH8ehau9lF-Wbw8ZmNYP0aDPrUkhzUIIWfFDhyphenhyphenS3qjwKafdK30MgBYRdrc7-opXFv5SeARqWNg-ALpEHEZaxhydcEo9Z94d1uTPKiw8/s400/elev+profile.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Course Elevation Profile</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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Tad and I got to Sausalito on
Wednesday night so that we could run the course on Thursday and Friday. Because
of the current blast of bad weather, Tim et al. had to revise the course into
one small loop and one big loop, which allowed us to run the entire course. We
started at Tennessee Valley on Thursday morning and the rain and wind was just
ridiculous. We sat in the car as if in a carwash for a good 30 minutes just
staring out the window hoping for a break. After taking the plunge, we ran the upper
loop that had the climb up to Marincello. On Friday we parked at Rodeo Beach,
the new start of the revised course, and ran the lower loop. The weather was
equally bad if not worse, but we still were able to get the preview in without
a problem. The trails are drastically different than what we have here in the
Pacific Northwest. Very smooth service roads and paved asphalt made up 90% of
the course. This was going to make for a very fast race! </div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsrOEEsFOlE9go7EbB3Le9P_2G83QALqbpFQYpno1sFvH8LN2DgOz8K3PGtzo0Artom-j6J80QCxgN7davKCXgo6eV5bzT3E3fQwztUVBu-puPItWN2W5pXChNKH0ecEwq4ntjKLCfZ-M/s1600/20160311_091847-01-02.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsrOEEsFOlE9go7EbB3Le9P_2G83QALqbpFQYpno1sFvH8LN2DgOz8K3PGtzo0Artom-j6J80QCxgN7davKCXgo6eV5bzT3E3fQwztUVBu-puPItWN2W5pXChNKH0ecEwq4ntjKLCfZ-M/s320/20160311_091847-01-02.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soaked in a second. The La Sportiva <a href="http://www.sportiva.com/products/apparel/mens-tops/hail-jacket" target="_blank">Hail Jacket</a> is awesome!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
On race morning the weather was
calmer than it had been the previous two days, but just as unpredictable. It
would rain and then stop, rain and then stop. I changed my outfit around three
times, still unsure when I lined up that what I chose would be appropriate. My
bib number was put through the wringer and I hadn't even started the race yet.<br />
<br />
<br />
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<br /></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start of the first climb.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkMVbURSzqZzkTbbi8HCcZMX_OXxmUQbpXKjaC1mCAHwcxQNzTt7YvIE7NOjA6S00K4oP3s_i4khRheICgyqZEMqHhuUY-4XmFhR9dWvumssQc1QibnLrhogy1UPaefpqUSr8_oJ0PbFU/s1600/IMG_0583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkMVbURSzqZzkTbbi8HCcZMX_OXxmUQbpXKjaC1mCAHwcxQNzTt7YvIE7NOjA6S00K4oP3s_i4khRheICgyqZEMqHhuUY-4XmFhR9dWvumssQc1QibnLrhogy1UPaefpqUSr8_oJ0PbFU/s320/IMG_0583.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Switching to the downhill gear.</td></tr>
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With $1,000 up for grabs and
Marin County being an elite trail running hub, we knew there was going to be plenty
of competition. I started the first two miles sitting behind a group of 4 women
and then gradually pulled ahead at the top of the first climb, Hill 88. As the
course wound around and started to descend quickly back to the start, I got
passed by eventual winner Daniella Moreno, a former college cross country and
track stud (16:33 5k and 34:27 10k) from UC Santa Barbara with a serious pair
of wheels. I clicked off a 5:17 mile coming down the mountain and <i>still</i>
couldn't keep up with her! It wasn't until the second climb that I came within a
couple seconds, but I ran out of mountain and it was time to go flying back
down. I had one more climb to make a move. I missed the second aid station
check point after starting the climb and had to turn around and go back. By
this time Daniella had extended the gap to 30 seconds and I knew that her speed
would be unbeatable the final fast 4 miles. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My face when Tad is telling me to run faster.</td></tr>
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Once I crested the top of the
final climb I turned my legs over as fast as they could, but when the trail
bottomed out with 2 miles to go, I had a hard time keeping the momentum going.
My hip tightened up significantly to the point that I stopped to stretch twice
to see if my stride would loosen up. By this point Daniella was long gone and I
knew that I had second. Even when your race position is set, it is so important
to push hard all the way to the finish because you never know what is happening
out in front of you. This is very hard to do especially when you are not
winning and do not have the adrenaline to mask the fatigue. This is something that
I have taken note of and need to work on for the future. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
On the final turn into the finish
shoot I embarrassingly ran into the 'Turn Right' sign and smacked my shoulder
and head. I was glad to be done. I finished 2<sup>nd</sup> woman, 11<sup>th</sup>
overall with a finish time of 1:48:35. Full results <a href="https://app.lap.io/event/2016-muc/results" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who doesn't love a big check?</td></tr>
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The trail running community in
Mill Valley is very special. Large organized group runs, extremely supportive
cheers along the course and volunteers that made the race go off without a
hitch despite the inclement weather. I really want to thank Tim and his crew for
all of the work they do and continue to do to host the best races in California.
For more <b>Inside Trail</b> races check out their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/InsideTrail" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> and <a href="http://insidetrail.com/calendar/" target="_blank">website</a>. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
Thanks to <b>La Sportiva</b> for
providing opportunities for trail runners to make some cash while doing what we
love to do in some of the most spectacular areas around the country.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
A huge hug and thank you to La
Sportiva Team and Mountain Cup Manager, <b>Quinn Carrasco</b>, for bringing my gear
all the way to California with him, for giving me his jacket at the finish line
as I shivered in wait for Tad to come off the mountain and for his support and
enthusiasm. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
Next weekend is the famous
<b>Chuckanut 50k</b> here in Bellingham, Washington. I am really excited to see my
<b><a href="http://trailbutter.com/" target="_blank">Trail Butter Family</a></b> and to cheer on my friends as they take on the Ridge,
Chinscraper and the dreaded Interurban. Maybe next year I'll be on that
starting line, too…</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-23104985400809208322016-02-14T11:57:00.000-08:002016-02-14T11:57:27.556-08:00Let the Games Begin!<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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It has been <s>forever</s> 4
months since I last raced. No matter how long you have been racing it is always
nice to get in a no pressure race to shake off some nerves and go through the
race morning motions before the meat and potatoes of the season begins. I love
the Fragrance Lake Half Marathon, not only because of the course, but because I
get to toe the line with my friends and have pizza and watch them drink beer after.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgznRAiezx10WqFi9HZIrX9ISWXsxkxNqNuwcwqoF_IvO98t8yAs8A8uoC77ZEUWWwzdfdjuhZnpJDPXb-pUH-tDlrXLbrDT8nB1R2qNAJzKCPoick46ZY0Qt-1IHEYLJgnjvt8yXC_NQA/s1600/btrc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgznRAiezx10WqFi9HZIrX9ISWXsxkxNqNuwcwqoF_IvO98t8yAs8A8uoC77ZEUWWwzdfdjuhZnpJDPXb-pUH-tDlrXLbrDT8nB1R2qNAJzKCPoick46ZY0Qt-1IHEYLJgnjvt8yXC_NQA/s320/btrc.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The BTRC Family. PC: CamE Tasker</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was getting really excited
about Fragrance, especially after my Wednesday workout. It was an aggressive 2x
a lap around Lake Padden, the fastest I've ever run. This was really confidence-boosting
for the future and shows that all of the fitness I gained in the fall that did
not manifest in a race is still there. But right after the workout, I was struggling
with intense heel pain that was almost unbearable. The rest of the day it continued
to be crippling, so much so that I could not even walk home from the dentist.
Obviously, I became distraught and naturally I thought the worst until Tad
calmed me down and reminded me that I was seeing Kerry (<a href="http://primebellingham.com/" target="_blank">Prime Massage and Sports Medicine</a>) and
Chris (aka Dr. Lockwood, <a href="http://alignchiropracticbellingham.com/" target="_blank">Align Chiropractic</a>) the next day. He was right; they
have been known to possess miraculous powers so I needed to stay calm until
they had time to work their magic.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting ready for some slipping and sliding.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The next day the pain was still
excruciating, and ran one minute and called it a day. I went to see Kerry who almost immediately
diagnosed the problem - a strain in my calf muscle that was expressing pain
at the attachment point on my heel. She did a combination of massage, joint
mobilization and Graston Technique and then tag-teamed me off to Chris. Because
I have been seeing Chris for so long now - about 3 years - my body has become extremely
responsive to his adjustments and we're able to fine-tune tweaks and weaknesses
fairly easily. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading into Two Dollar.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I left my dream team feeling much
better about the situation and confident that I was not doomed. I may not be
able to race on Saturday, but we knew this was not an issue that would derail
my training for weeks. On Friday, the pain was night and day. I was able to get
in 5 miles on minimal pain that never progressed. The plan was to run Fragrance
Lake with the goal of practicing race morning, but be smart enough to shut it
down or stop if the pain was bad. Well, an incredible thing happened: there was
no pain. I couldn't believe it! From not being able to walk on Thursday to
running a technical, muddy trail half on Saturday, I can't tell you how
grateful I am!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtjBRJOYmhPCoDrWd89DTk7xsrLHUOpr-vN8s-gLak5SS9_6dzZRvwJyKT96YyXUb26irpefazQo8EsP6aVh6usKkKQE4Att80ehqjwib1yb2LOh_qf6yctx6duJlixnzZJtnIaafQtWc/s1600/IMG_0549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtjBRJOYmhPCoDrWd89DTk7xsrLHUOpr-vN8s-gLak5SS9_6dzZRvwJyKT96YyXUb26irpefazQo8EsP6aVh6usKkKQE4Att80ehqjwib1yb2LOh_qf6yctx6duJlixnzZJtnIaafQtWc/s320/IMG_0549.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Climbing Rock Trail.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The race itself was pretty
uneventful; I ran completely alone the entire time. This was totally fine for
the day as it allowed me to listen to my body and still give a solid effort
without killing myself. Candice changed up the course a bit this year, taking
us the long way around the lake, and fallen trees and thick mud really slowed
things down so it is hard to compare to last year. I was first female and third
overall. Results <a href="http://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=34139" target="_blank">here</a>. Congrats to my training partner, Josh Vander Wiele for crushing
the course and getting some Fragrance Lake redemption! And congratulations to
everyone who raced this weekend here in Bellingham, at the trials and afar.
There was no shortage of inspiration!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
Thanks to Candice Burt (who has
the cutest dog in the entire world!) and Garrett Froelich for directing and
organizing the <a href="http://www.bellinghamtrail.com/" target="_blank">Bellingham Trail Running Series</a>. For more "Destination
Trail Running Events for the Adventurous," check out <a href="http://www.destinationtrailrun.com/" target="_blank">Destination Trail</a>.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
I seriously can't thank Kerry and
Chris enough for their care and concern in keeping me healthy. It means an
incredible amount to me that words can't describe. I can't wait to see what opportunities
and results this year will bring because "together we can do so
much."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
Side Note:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
Happy Valentine's Day to my best
friend in the entire world - I love you a stupid amount!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS9yr1xIgOqhOx-186eq8lwcvHFV7FDOZw358st05_IJBzb6RLrkLA7DyJd5cx3oaxE8okil2dHPCIjXUZ5i2e68nnikWZZ4Lkti2XQ6igRs5U2yUcJIvH35KJ3dEqLcVTtDZO4jlp9I0/s1600/FullSizeRender%25286%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS9yr1xIgOqhOx-186eq8lwcvHFV7FDOZw358st05_IJBzb6RLrkLA7DyJd5cx3oaxE8okil2dHPCIjXUZ5i2e68nnikWZZ4Lkti2XQ6igRs5U2yUcJIvH35KJ3dEqLcVTtDZO4jlp9I0/s320/FullSizeRender%25286%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-65734325160627504332016-01-09T14:44:00.000-08:002016-01-09T14:46:22.834-08:00Making the Donuts<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
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The New Year didn't prompt me to
reflect, evaluate my goals or make resolutions. January 1, 2016 was just
another day of training, another day of trying to be better and another day working
on my weaknesses. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
My "new year" began on
November 8<sup>th</sup>. After a <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2015/10/running-in-dream-lake-padden-trail.html" target="_blank">disappointing performance</a> at the Lake Padden
Trail Half Marathon and a "did not start" at the Moab Marathon, it
was time for a break physically and mentally. I took two weeks off from
running, but still went to the gym (Terrain) and took a couple yoga classes for
fun. Still, I felt mentally drained and had no motivation to start running. One
day I went out for a run, got a mile out and just stopped and walked back to
the car. I just didn't want to run. This feeling scared me as it has never
happened before so I went to the doctor and got blood work done. All of my lab
results came out just fine and I was pleased when the doctor tipped her hat to
my good nutrition.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
2016 was an incredible year, arguably
the best in my running career. Highlighted by representing the U.S. team and
placing 18<sup>th</sup> at the World Long Distance Mountain Running
Championships and by winning the La Sportiva Mountain Cup. Every goal I set I
managed to achieve. It's not very often you can say that. So, I think my
problem was simply that I was tired. The day I walked back to the car I gave
myself until the end of the week to "snap out of it," and if I was
still in a funk I would take another week completely off from any physical
activity. Luckily as the week progressed, I started to feel better and, almost
magically, things turned around. My motivation was back and I was ready to get
out the door and start thinking about workouts again.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgunhP_UwOtKRHlIEZ2I-csb5e6Wc8chK4SrJrAOO7ieOrEv1OSnowkTYre9A4nh8mwJdVrCGxMSqN_XOX6STpLoJ6EcgXKUTRYMn4T8aVk5DJtzigBRr8onsNbZCFtKytiK7qZOmID0cQ/s1600/20151228_102912-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgunhP_UwOtKRHlIEZ2I-csb5e6Wc8chK4SrJrAOO7ieOrEv1OSnowkTYre9A4nh8mwJdVrCGxMSqN_XOX6STpLoJ6EcgXKUTRYMn4T8aVk5DJtzigBRr8onsNbZCFtKytiK7qZOmID0cQ/s320/20151228_102912-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cooper's Rock State Forest, West Virginia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
While in my funk, I also wanted
to address the anxiety that was overwhelming me the past 3 months. I have had
anxiety with panic attacks my whole life, but in the past 3 years the fear has
mounted so high that I no longer feel comfortable driving alone anymore. After
having a panic attack while previewing the Moab Marathon course, I had had
enough. That was the final straw and something had to be done. I did not want
my anxiety and panic to keep me from doing what I love to do so I aggressively
sought help. I have been speaking with a mental health counselor and started
taking anti-anxiety medication. Medication is something I have tried to avoid
for years, but I came to the realization that sometimes you just need help and
that's okay. I have no control over the fact that my brain has trouble
balancing serotonin. Every day I have been trying to understand my anxiety and working
up the courage to face the scary feelings of panic. I strongly believe that if
I can overcome this, I will be able to take on a whole new level of challenges because
no mountain, race course or competition is scarier than the thoughts in my
head.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
My goals for 2016 are more fluid
than 2015. There is no more La Sportiva Mountain Cup series with points to win,
but individual races with prize money. I will not have the opportunity to be on
the U.S. Long Distance Mountain Running Team because I did not compete in the
qualifying race in Moab. However, this year is an all up year for the short
distance Mountain Running Championship which returns to Loon Mountain on July 3<sup>rd</sup>.
Third time is the charm, right? </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
I will kick off the season with
the Fragrance Lake Half Marathon here in Bellingham on February 13<sup>th</sup>
and then my training and fitness level will dictate our next move. I have been
logging consistent 80 mile weeks and I had my first workout in months just the
other day. The tempo showed that I am right where I left off in October so that
is encouraging moving forward.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Other stuff of interest:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<a href="https://www.athletebiz.us/" target="_blank">AthleteBiz</a> has launched a really
cool opportunity for fans to purchase an athlete's favorite gear and in turn
the athlete gets most of the profit. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check
out my personal store <a href="https://www.athletebiz.us/athletes/maria-dalzot/store" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTfyXJSN9BPQER16-w_aRo-8Bsw_yQ53oXmWmBk53i6ZUmGDmJkxoNuZxvcNhG40l80y45HJZuvIwZvPIu77GQShgEUbW5O0IIo98jGKK4hFdF17iVy7OgRmZQT1EF1LMOKY4eBuK9FjM/s1600/20151212_105416-02.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTfyXJSN9BPQER16-w_aRo-8Bsw_yQ53oXmWmBk53i6ZUmGDmJkxoNuZxvcNhG40l80y45HJZuvIwZvPIu77GQShgEUbW5O0IIo98jGKK4hFdF17iVy7OgRmZQT1EF1LMOKY4eBuK9FjM/s320/20151212_105416-02.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stewart Mountain, Bellingham</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If you missed the Terrain Vimeo
that we made last fall check it out <a href="http://mariadalzot.blogspot.com/2015/12/terrain-gym-vimeo-shoot.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
In the life of a competitive
distance runner, December 31<sup>st</sup> is the same as January 1<sup>st</sup>,
is the same as January 2<sup>nd</sup>, 3<sup>rd</sup>, 4<sup>th</sup>… Every
day we strive to be just a little bit fitter, just a little bit faster, just a
little bit tougher, just a little bit braver.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
Time to go make the donuts.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span id="goog_876686093"></span><span id="goog_876686094"></span><br />
<span id="goog_876686093"></span><span id="goog_876686094"></span><br /></div>
Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898161099747580311.post-50308231635967130132015-12-06T17:07:00.000-08:002015-12-06T17:19:15.447-08:00Terrain Gym Vimeo ShootI had the really cool opportunity to work with Bellingham photographer, <a href="http://www.carsonartacphoto.com/" target="_blank">Carton Artac</a>, on a Vimeo for <a href="http://www.terraingym.com/" target="_blank">Terrain Gym</a>. The two minute video shares my innate passion for running and tells how strength work was a missing piece of my training until I found Tonia and how it takes my training to the next level in order to be more competitive.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw3byCPm0pRxy24I-vRYAWvUatbsFJgyulPfLJyyeeSHyGLalsVRuVR87x63LWhRrrAaL45N0qIjA8EfTyWwA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Prior to this interview, my goal for 2016 was to qualify for
the World Long Distance Mountain Running Championship that will be in Slovenia
next year and place in the top 10 (I was 18th at the World Championship this year). However, I failed to
mention the Long Distance part. Also, this was before I went to the qualification race in Moab in early November and ended up not racing. </div>
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Oh well.</div>
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It's a pretty awesome clip if I do say so myself. I am very proud of Terrain Gym and all that it stands for. If you're in the Bellingham area and looking for a unique gym that will make you stronger, fitter, faster, more durable and confident--then come and check it out!</div>
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09694282497921681632noreply@blogger.com0