Treadmill again….

Afternoon Trail Run

Evening Run

Night Run

About a year ago I conjured up the crazy idea to tackle this insane route. Almost 60 miles of rail trail and to top it all off, I had never done more than a 50k. Obviously I was nervous and intimated but decided to face all fear and doubts head on. I started later than intended due to a suggestion from my wife as our toddler was not having a good night sleeping and boy am I glad. I woke energized and ready for this task. The weather was less to be desired, however I think in the end it worked in my favor. It was snowing at the start and may have snowed for about 2 hours (on and off all day really). The sun eventually came out and the wind was soon to follow. Overall, the day remained cool and just may have been my saving grace.
Started day out nice and found myself surprised as I closed in on a marathon and 50k. It seemed to have gone by relatively quickly. At mile 30, I picked up more water to filter later, which I did around mile 36-37. Filtering water really sucks and takes so much time, though I did find it nice to sit for a period of time and rest the legs. Either way, I did lose probably 10-15 minutes from filtering. Legs only really had one bout of cramps at mile 31, the rest of the miles I would take it easy, stopping occasionally to stretch and slowing down the pace a lot.
Overall, the day was long and the miles got the better of my legs. Nevertheless, they withstood the test and brought me to glorious victory. A few things I learned along the day:
1.) Sometimes you just have to motivate yourself by getting to that next mile.
2.) Mediocre runners can accomplish big goals.
3.) I definitely don't give enough credit and appreciation to my wife for allowing me to do crazy things like this while she cares for the kids. 
4.) Perhaps the most important of all....though this was tough, it still wasn't as tough as giving up alcohol/drugs and tobacco was.
Happy Trails!

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Eric H

Northern Rail Trail FKT: unsupported

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Treadmill again….

Afternoon Trail Run

Evening Run

Evening Run

Night Run

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