That's right, humbling. I got my butt handed to me out there on Vail Mountain. I am not sure if I was just not feeling it, or if the altitude and hill actually killed me. I got off to a bad start, which is very rare. Coming from a mile background, starting has always been fast and easy. We hit the first hill and the whole field was slowed to a walk. OUCH! The walk hurt! Then down we go after about a mile climbing. A mile descending, and then almost 2 more miles up. I was just slow! I don't know why, but I could not get going. At the top of the hill I just said the heck with it and enjoyed the downhill and the remainder of the race. So, a bad race, but I did learn a lot. McGurk had a rough day as well, and he said they just happen in mountain racing. I am just not used to that happening running. I think it is time to add a bit of speed and some tempo runs. The flatness could be due to two easy weeks with no hills (due to the knee and achilles hurting). But, still.
So, back to training and I will see how I do over 14.5 miles up to 14,200'. That should be another interesting experience.
It is nice to have these humbling experiences, and I tend to embrace them a bit. They are a clear reminder of what is important and what needs to be done. So, until the next race. I am sure there are many better times to come.
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