06/03/2026
It was a great experience racing this past weekend. The 51 k was a great way to kick off the summer running season and a good motivator to log some bigger mileage weeks earlier in the year than normal. I knew I had good base fitness coming from cross country ski season, but needed some more time on feet and impact training for trail running.
The course was a fun mix of surface and had some challenging climbs in it. Some amazing vistas and plenty of cows on course. The cowbells often had me thinking there was a crowd of spectators just around the corner when in fact it was just another herd of cows staring as I ran by. One unforeseen aspect was a record-setting heat wave across much of Europe in race week, adding another element.
I’m pleased with how it went overall, though I had a rough few miles/kilometers in the last third of the race. I got a little behind in electrolyte intake and the heat made that challenging. Had some cramps but was able to rebound for a decent finishing effort. My training felt solid but would have been nice to get a few more intensity sessions in. I had instead prioritized the volume build for this particular race.
Fueled throughout with .second gels and a couple of bars. As well as some C30 drink mix, later than I should have. The gels, as always, went down easy and caused no stomach issues. My go-tos have become the Passion Fruit and Cola (for the caffeine). Shoes from and socks from also made sure my feet had zero blisters and felt good the whole way. Big thanks to for building community and bringing Trail Talk folks together for a weekend of racing and banter.
