Davis Stampede 1/2 Marathon (Troy) 2022

Date/Location:	2/20/22 – Davis, CA
Distance:	1/2 Marathon (13.1 Miles)
Time:	1:39:18
Place:	8th age-group, 57th overall
Teammates:	1/2 Marathon:  John Justus, Martin Sengo, Melissa Penwell, Anna Soares, Robin Soares, Rosie Kracher

This is an important run before my marathon in 2 weeks.  I am extremely grateful to the Lord for the last 8 months of being able to run well again after a year of a painful foot injury.  However, the last week I’ve started to develop hip soreness likely due to not stretching and getting enough sleep.  It’s been a really hard month with needs of our families taking priority.  So I go into this race a little concerned.

Ariel sacrificed her race today to stay home and take care of my Dad because one of his caregivers moved on.  We’re thankful she was willing to do that.

Robin and Anna drop me off over a mile away so I can warm-up to the race start.  We see our friend, Courtney Cardenas, announcing the race and we give each other warm greetings.

We line up and pray at the start.  I would never want to take on a challenge like this out of God’s will because I know how much can go wrong because I’m not in control, the Lord is.

Melissa Penwell, from track, is running.  Anna’s top-running friend, Natalie from Ponderosa is going for a sub-1:20.  Our Auburn friend, Martin, is also running.

Anna’s goal is 1:38 (7:30 pace).  Mine is 1:45 (8:00 pace). Robin’s is 1:51 (8:30 pace).

Go! Conditions are great even though it’s chilly.  Field is full.  I’m trying to run very efficiently, but it doesn’t feel that easy.  I see Natalie near the front, then Anna, then Melissa.

Mile 1: 7:33.  Pace is faster than planned but I’d like to keep Anna in sights as long as possible.  I join up with the 1:40 pace group.  We go over the overpass and I’m immediately heating up.  Down below I cheer on Anna who is already over and running below.

Mile 2: 7:25. Ok, I think I’ll try 1:40 pace.  I focus on the Lord and remember to be joyful, even though I have concerns that my hip will start hurting.  Up ahead there’s an in-and-out section.  I see Anna ahead and air high-5 her.  Then coming out of it I see Robin behind me and air high-5 her.  I love racing with Robin, her smile is so encouraging.  And I love racing with Anna and seeing what God is doing through her success.  She’s had many injuries and has remained joyful.  And now it looks like she’s running better than ever.

Mile 3: 7:43. I’ve fallen behind the group some but have joined up with Natalie’s dad, and coach of Ponderosa HS XC, Brian, who I’ve met at the races.  He tells me about Natalie’s training and plans for college and other top young runners who are leading today’s race.  He’s also helping a friend run their best 1/2 marathon.

Mile 4: 7:37. We continue chatting which makes the miles go by [currently 63 overall].

Mile 5: 7:42. We’re weaving through greenways.  Davis has so many paths and beautiful areas to run and stroll.

 

Mile 6: 7:44.  The gravel section which I love is coming up.  It’s funny that it’s Robin’s least favorite part of the race.  Brian and David slow for water so I go ahead.

I start thinking of some of the problems of the month.  Some things people said to us that weren’t nice.  I start feeling more energy and wanting to run faster.  “On your right” I pass the 1:40 group on the narrow path because I love this section.  And then I feel like “that guy” who doesn’t want to keep the pace but surges ahead just to get caught later..  I also realize the Lord doesn’t want me running angry and using that for energy, He is all the energy I would ever need. 

Mile 7: 7:34. But I continue on thinking “now I’m in front, I better make it stick”.  But it’s getting harder.  I eat some chews.  Drink water.  At a turn I see Brian and David behind me and cheer them on.

Mile 8: 7:48. We run down a long road before looping back onto the beautiful greenways. [currently 38th overall]

Mile 9: 7:27. Somehow that was a pretty fast mile.  Through more parks.  I run by a kid doing the 1/2 marathon with an arm in a cast.  That’s pretty tough.  I’m feeling more pain now in my hip.  It makes me think of Anna and Robin who have had hip injuries, too.  I pray that Robin is feeling good and that her hip is keeping strong.  I pray that I can take the injury rather than her.  And I realize my surge back at Mile 7 wasn’t smart.  The Lord has blessed us so much, there’s no reason to ever run angry.

Mile 10: 7:34. We run through the industrial area and Martin Sengo catches up to me, almost at the same spot as he did 2 years ago!  Up ahead on the overpass I see Anna crossing over a 1/2 mi ahead of us.  Martin is always cheerful and seems to have a way of negative-splitting this race each time.  I push but can’t keep up with him.  The overpass is tough but descending is also tough for my hip.

Mile 11: 7:46. 2 to go.  Everything is sore but trying to keep the pace.  The out-n-back section allows us to see each other.  Martin, the kid with the cast, and Brian and David.  Brian and David catch me and I try to stay with them.

Mile 12: 7:58. I fall behind.  The hip is hurting.  Trying to lean forward and be efficient. I can hear the 1:40 pace group catching me..  reminding me of my hasty move miles back.  I see Anna and she cheers for me to sprint to the end, but all I can do is smile and try to pump my arms more.

 

Mile 13: 7:35.  Good mile.  Good to be done.  Thank you, Lord, for your blessing and grace and forgiveness.  He answered my prayers anyway.  Anna had a great race, Robin didn’t have hip pain.  God is good and the best race strategy is always to just trust in Him.

Davis Stampede 1/2 Marathon- Anna- 2022

Date/Location:	2/20/22 – Davis, CA
Distance:	1/2 Marathon (13.1 Miles)
Time:	1:35:11
Place:	2nd (16-19 Females), 7th Female Overall
Teammates:	1/2 Marathon:  John Justus, Martin Sengo, Melissa Penwell, Robin Soares, Rosie Kracher, Troy Soares

Today I am at the Davis stampede race to run a half marathon. A friend of mine from cross country and track is also here. Her name is Natalie and she is super fast. I probably won't see her during the entire race. As we get ready to start I try to stretch out. I’m a little nervous for this race because I haven't trained that much.

They count down and start us off. I take it easy and try to relax. I'm already going way too fast, about a 6 minute pace. I'm always so surprised how in the beginning of a race the pace is so easy but halfway through you could barely hold it. My goal is for a 7:30 pace for this race. I let people pass me and try to count off all the girls ahead of me. There's about six girls ahead of me right now. I'll try to catch them about halfway through the race.

I now turn on to a dirt road and I look back to see my dad. I try to make eye contact with him almost to get confirmation that my pace is okay. I know I'm supposed to be running faster than him but he won't be too far behind. I'm still feeling very comfortable at the pace I'm at, but I try to keep it at a 7:30 and not anything faster.

I loop back around and go through the finish area. Now I head out for the real big and long loop. After running through a parking lot, I start to run on a long straight away. After running for a little bit, a family friend, Melissa, catches me. I enjoy running with her and talking with her. She's running a faster pace then I would like to run, but I stay with her to enjoy the company. Up ahead there's an inlet we run into that loops back out to the main road. When coming back to the main road I see my dad as he starts the inlet. We do air high fives.

Melissa and I then continue on the long straight ahead. We both then start to realize that we have to use the restroom. I hope I can hold it and I look for a bathroom. After a while we turn onto a small bike/run path that takes us through the park. As we run around baseball fields, I keep my eye open for a bathroom. I finally see a bathroom run over to it. But both of them are locked! Two people must already be using the restroom! I pray God brings me to a bathroom and keep running. I wish I could enjoy being with Melissa more, however, I really have to go. After running for a while I see an aid station come up and a porta potty on the side! I second-guess if I should use the restroom or not. I asked the volunteers if it's open and they say it is. At least I'm ahead of pace so if I stop I shouldn't get behind. I quickly dart over, make a record pit-stop, and head back to running.

I'm very glad I took that bathroom break. I try to see if I can catch Melissa. She's way ahead, but I keep a steady pace. I now have a fast lady in front of me who's going about my pace. I decide to stick with her and see if I catch Melissa towards the end. The lady is shorter than me but still really fast. It just reminds me how powerful a turnover can be in a race. I try to make my feet move faster and continue running with her.

After a while we cross some streets and get to a gravel section. I remember my mom telling me that the gravel section was her least favorite part in the entire race. So far the gravel section is not too bad and I'm enjoying it. It's kind of cool to enjoy something that other people don't like. I also try to run on the edge of the gravel path in order to have a more sturdy path to run on. I also try to run flat-footed because that gives you the most traction on

sand or gravel. I catch up to the girl ahead of me and pass her. I hope I'm not pushing too hard. I continue to run on the gravel path and realize that it encircles a golf field. Hopefully it won't last too long. However, after a mile, I'm still running on the path! At least now the gravel path is circling behind some neighborhoods, hopefully it turns into a bike path soon!

As I'm running I pass a younger boy who was ahead of me. He's doing the half marathon with a cast on! I am very impressed and tell him good job. I continue running looking excitedly for pavement. After about a half mile I finally hit the pavement! I run by the aid station I earlier took a bathroom break at. As I’m running on the pavement, instead of my legs being more energized on pavement instead of gravel, they're much more tired. I quickly grab my gel and give myself a boost. After slowing down for a second to eat my gel, I have energy to speed back up to my pace. Up ahead is a blind runner with his friend. I try to catch up to them. I find it really cool that a friend would take his time to train with his buddy in order to help him race. Also during the entire race the blind man's friend was telling him exactly what the path looks like so he wouldn't trip. I pass the running pair and tell them good job.

I'm then back to running on the bike paths behind the neighborhoods. I'm around mile 8.5 and I'm starting to feel pretty sore. I have around 5 mi left and that encourages me to keep pushing on. I keep trying to look for something up ahead on the race course that will bring me closer to the finish line. Up ahead I see two girls I remember from the start. Maybe I could slowly catch them. I try to keep a consistent pace while keeping my eyes on them. After a while I pass an aid station and only see one of the girls ahead of me. Her friend must be using the restroom. I catch up to her pretty easily and tell her good job.

I'm tired but I keep pushing even though it hurts. I just hope that I can keep this pace for about four more miles! Now I'm running closer to the main road. That's got to be a good sign. Before turning onto a side road from the bike path, I see a race sign that's been spray painted. It's sad that the people didn't respect the race officials' property. I then turn onto the side road. Up ahead I see a really big bridge that overarches the highway. I wonder if I’m going to run over it. I look for runners to see if that's where the path is. I don't see any. However as I'm running, I realize the course is going to take me right over the bridge. This bridge is really huge and long. I also remember my parents running over this bridge in the half marathon a few years back. I know I must be getting closer to the end. I have about 3 miles left. I start running up this bridge and I'm just in awe of how big and how high I am. There's no one but me on this bridge and it's such a cool experience. I look down and see other runners getting ready to run up the bridge too. I see the two girls that I originally passed and they're looking strong. I'll try to keep up my pace to stay ahead of them.

I then start running down the other side of the bridge after crossing over. I then run onto a bike path in the park. As I’m running, the inside of my foot is starting to hurt a little bit. I know I need to be careful not to injure it, so up ahead at a station, I quickly stop just to feel my foot out. I feel no sharp pains when I push on it, so I continue to run. While I had stopped for a second, the running pair with the blind man passed me. I then decide to try to stay with them. I'm really tired from running so fast, but I jump onto their pace and hold on. I know I have less than 3 mi to go and I just need to hold onto this pace. I'm so tired I can't pass them, but I can stay with them. I do give them enough room though, because I do not want to trip the blind man.

We then run deeper into the park and do a small out and back. I see Melissa coming back from the turnaround. I wave and tell her good job. She says good job too. Up ahead the running pair and I turn around and head back the way we came. I know it's straight back to the finish line now. I also know there's an underpass that leads straight to the finish line. I keep my eye out and know I'm really close. After running with the pair, I slowly pull ahead and I’m excited for the finish line. I'm about a mile and a half away and can't wait. As I'm running up ahead I see arrows pointing left, however, cones are blocking the way to go left. I run left anyways because that's where the chalk says to go. I see runners up ahead and know I went the right way. I yell back just in case and ask the pair behind me why the race course monitors put cones there. Little did I know that they didn't even notice that the arrow said to turn left but when I yelled back at them, they were able to make the correct turn. I thank God afterwards for giving me this opportunity to help others not get lost.

I then continue to run under underpasses towards the finish. I'm down to a mile to go and I know I'm so close. I'm passing people and trying to keep a good pace. I know the running pair is right behind me. I'm sure there's only one underpass left and pass under it. I don't see the finish line so I know that there's just one more underpass to go. I can almost hear the announcer and I know I'm close.  I pass under one more underpass and see the park ahead of me. I pick up the pace knowing the finish line is right there. I also know that I'm probably going to have to run around the finish line before finishing like last year. However, as I run towards the finish line, I realize it's just straight through. I run through the finish line and give credit to God who kept my foot and hip stable. I also tell the runner pair behind me good job. It's so impressive how they worked together and finished hard. Also my friend Natalie did amazing and was the 1st woman overall and 4th overall. I was 7th woman overall and was 2nd in my age group, behind Natalie. My time was also 1:35:13, an average 7:19 pace! Thank you God! I then celebrated with my mom and dad and we enjoyed the rest of the day after racing hard.

Praise the Lord for He is Good, His Love Endures Forever!

Davis Stampede 1/2 Marathon–Robin - 2022

Date/Location:	2/20/22 – Davis, CA
Distance:	1/2 Marathon (13.1 Miles)
Time:	1:48:06
Place:	3rd (45-49 Females)
Teammates:	1/2 Marathon: Anna Soares, John Justus, Martin Sengo, Melissa Penwell, Rosie Kracher, Troy Soares

It’s been two years since they’ve had this event because of COVID.  It’s been 4 years since I’ve done the 1/2 Marathon.  I was supposed to do the 1/2 in 2020 but I was injured and had to switch to the 5K.  What a blessing from Jesus to be back here uninjured!  It will be a challenge because I’ve been lagging behind in my training.  I’ve been subbing full time since January and with many family activities/situations I have had a hard time finding time to put in the miles.  My training is taking a backseat right now anyway.  The priority is really Troy’s and Anna’s 1/2 Marathon race. Troy is getting ready for the Napa Marathon in two weeks and Anna is training up for a 1/2 Ironman in July.  This race has pace groups or runners who lead runners to a certain time if they can stick with them.

It’s just Troy, Anna and I this time. Ariel was going to run the 5K this morning but she graciously volunteered to take care of her grandpa this morning since we couldn’t get a caregiver to help.  We get to Davis and get our bib numbers and t-shirts.  There are several familiar faces. Our friend Courtney Cardenas is announcing the race today.  FCA teammate Rosie Kracher and her husband are also here.  Anna’s competitor and friend from Cross Country, Natalie Wieland, is here too.  She just might win this race!

Anna, Troy and I pray together.  We then seed ourselves according to our ability.  I did close to 8 min pace at the CIM relay back in December but I was in better shape but today I’ll go for 8:30 pace. That puts me at a 1:51 for today’s half.  I decide to go with the 1:50 pace group.

Ready, set, go!  Off goes Troy and Anna.  Martin Sengo goes by me and we chat.  He’s from Davis and tells me he knows this course well.  I say goodbye as we part ways.  The first mile does a loop right back to the starting/finish line. Better to pass the finish line in the beginning then just before the end. 

Mile 1 is 8:15. I am feeling good and staying with the pace group.  We climb the pedestrian overpass across Hwy 80.  Overpasses are the only hills in Davis.  Coming from Auburn, it seems like nothing but later in the race I’ll probably feel different!

Mile 2 is 8:14. I think the pacer is ahead of pace but I stay with him.  I’m feeling comfortable so I’m not very concerned.  We do a strange out and back in a cul-de-sac.  I get to briefly see Troy as he comes out and I give him an air high-five.

Mile 3 is 8:19. I start chatting with the pacer, Kelly.  I find out he’s a local ultra-runner and that we have a lot of friends in common.  It’s a nice distraction and passes the time.  I still am feeling good.

Mile 4 is 8:20. We continue to meander through the green-belts of Davis.  I know my least favorite part is coming.  It’s the back half of the course that goes on a loose gravel road.  It’s really hard for me to run on.  I ask Kelly if he minds it and he says it’s just like trail running for him.  I know Troy likes it too.  Kelly and I talk about road biking.  He says he doesn’t like the danger of the cars.  I tell him that I pray every time I go out. 

We cross under Covell Blvd and then run along it.  I realize that the pacer is not ahead of pace but right on pace.  I’ve been thinking about running 8:30 pace which is a 1:51

Mile 5 is 8:25.  Still feeling good.  A girl passes me and says hi thinking I’m someone she knows. I find out her name is Megon. I tell her good job.

Mile 6 is 8:17. Kelly stops at the porta-potty and tells us he hopes to catch up.  I try to catch up to Megon who is just ahead of me.  Here comes the gravel! 

I read in my story from 2018 that I tried to run on the patches of grass along the path.  I try that again.  There are not many spots to do this but it’s enough to get by. I hear footsteps behind me.  There must be another runner adopting my tactic. 

Mile 7 is 8:09. The gravel is not the usual torture for me.  It probably helps that I’m trying to do a more conservative pace. I am still following the same girl.  I try to use her as a wind break. 

I can see the end of the gravel section!  That went by faster than expected!  Thank you Lord!

Mile 8 is 8:23. I can see Kelly coming along as I loop to go under Covell Blvd. again. He’s got some ground to cover yet.

A gal comes along side me and tells me she was the one right behind trying to run the grassy sections too.  We both agree the gravel is not fun.  I notice her Boston shirt and ask her about it.  Her name is Sarah and I find out she’s trying to run a marathon on every continent. She also trains with the Chavez Fam in the bay area.  Small world! 

Mile 9 is 8:11. I’m feeling strong and am staying with Sarah.  We have pulled away from Megon.   

Another gravel section comes up and Sarah and I cringe.  It’s a short section thankfully!

Mile 10 is 8:23.  Things are getting noticeably tougher. When I want to press the pace, I cannot.  Sarah starts to pull away from me.  I cross Hwy 80 again and this time the overpass feels like a steep hill!  I try to use gravity on the backside to catch Sarah but she continues to pull away.

I hear someone call out my name.  I look over and see Beth Bourne.  I wave and say hi. She tells me good job and tells me she got my recent race story.  So nice she came out to cheer me on!

Mile 11 is 8:28.  We do another weird out and back.  Sarah looks strong.  I keep trying to pick it up but I feel stuck.  On my way back I see Kelly.  We cheer each other on.

Mile 12 is 8:22. I actually am able to pick it up! So close now!  I see Troy and Anna ahead cheering for me. They must have finished over 10 minutes ago!  It’s nice to see them and get encouraged.  I push as hard as I can. 

Mile 13 is 8:13. The finish line is so close!  I cross the line and look up to God.  Thank you Jesus!

FCA New Years Day Challenge–Robin-2022

Date/Location:	1/1/22 PART 1: Bike- Auburn, Overlook Park PART 2: Resolution Run -Auburn, Overlook Park
Distance:	Hill Climb #1 – 3m Old Foresthill Rd Hill Climb #2 - 1.2m Raley's Hill Resolution Run - 10m Trails
Time:	Hill Climb #1 – 20:12 (PR 16:48, 2014) Hill Climb #2 – 6:49 (PR 5:52, 2014) Run 1: 1:33:39  (PR 1:16:04, 2011)
Place:	Bike: 1st Hill Climb #1 1st Hill Climb #2 Run: 1st (W40-49); 2nd OA Overall: 1st New Years Challenge
Teammates:	Hill Climb: Anna Soares & Troy Soares 10 Mile: Anna Tortosa, Arash Ghorbani, Craig Rienbolt, Diana Arteaga Falconi, John Justus, Manouch Shirvanioun, Michelle Nall, Rosie Del Sarto, Troy Soares 10K: Anna Soares, Caryn Galeckas, Suzanne Hartley, Wyatt Hamiltonb 5K: Ariel Soares, Ashley Glass, Elizabeth Katsura, Hunter Glass, Seely Fam (Jon, Ardelle, Adalynn, Alice)

PART 1 – BIKE

It’s always hard to wake up early on New Year’s Day that’s what makes today so great!  It’s been 2 years since we’ve done our FCA New Year’s Challenge which consists of riding and racing up 2 hills (Old Foresthill Road and Foresthill Road from the bridge to Raley’s) on the bike followed by the local Resolution Run. Before I head out, I post our race stories from the CIM Relay.  I am struck by what Troy says and I really feel the same way right now…

However, I am so grateful for the Lord’s blessings in these race events.  He always does something wonderful when we truly give the effort to Him.  For me that means continually look to His guidance for how to race and act and serve others.  Although at times I may have thoughts of “this isn’t fun”, “what’s the point”, or “do the minimal”, over the years I’ve learned that is wrong and that Jesus can take a simple run and use it for His glory if I give Him my all.  That is my goal and desire.

There is always a blessing if we look for it!  And one of the blessings is Anna is joining us this year on our ride for the first time.  Her goal is to do a Half Ironman Triathlon in 2022 so this is a good early test.  Also, Anna’s hip and ankle are good. Praying for no rolled ankles today on the trails…and also for Troy’s foot to feel good.  It’s been bothering him for months now.

No one else shows up at the Overlook to join us so we do our usual warm-up ride that gives us some practice hills like the steep Glenview!  Then it’s down to the Confluence for the first race climb up Old Foresthill Road. Burr, it’s cold out here.  So glad Troy and I have our zip-up wool sweaters from last Christmas.  I loaned Anna some warm weather gear.  Time to get her some of her own warm bike clothes!

This year the road is closed to cars due to rock slides caused by fire damage and heavy rain.  It’s quiet and safe riding for us!  I get a 30 sec lead on Anna and a 1:30 lead on Troy.  It is staggered in the hope that we will all be finishing around the same time at the top of Old Foresthill Bridge.  It will also determine the order we climb to Raley’s

OLD FORESTHILL ROAD

I start but it takes me a moment to get situated on my bike.  I haven’t been riding much so things are little out of whack.  I get into a good rhythm.  I would love to finish at 20 minutes but not sure that is possible this year.  After about 5 minutes I look back and I’m doing well holding off Anna and Troy.  I hope to make a it to Mammoth Bar between 10-12 minutes. On my fast days I can get there in about 10 minutes and I don’t think that is happening.  It’s just about the half way point.  And just beyond it the road flattens out and you can really get moving!

As I approach Mammoth Bar I can see Troy is approaching me!  I make it to Mammoth Bar about 12 minutes.  Troy catches me soon after and I hold on for dear life.  If I can just stay with him to the flat part, I can easily draft off him.  I have always wanted to do that but never could hold on.  Praise God, I am able to stay with him!  Once on the flat part, it’s awesome to be going fast with not much effort.  Just maybe I can get 20 minutes!  I feel sad though that Anna is back there doing all the work by herself.  But she’s one tough cookie and I know she’s giving it her all!

Troy pulls me along to the last 500 meters.  I take a big chance and pull out and ahead of him. That’s all he needs to get motivated to sprint to the finish ahead of me.  I’m going to be so close to 20 minutes!  I push and get over the line!  20:12!  Alright!

We bike back and cheer Anna on.  She finishes and bursts into tears.  Not from disappointment, but from the pain of pushing your hardest for God and the overwhelming thankfulness to be done.  What an effort for Christ!

Now, we ride easy to the Foresthill Bridge.  Anna tells us she’s starting to understand what we go through in our Ironman training.

FORESTHILL BRIDGE TO RALEYS

At the bridge we get in the order we finished.  I’d like to finish under 7 minutes.

Ready, go!  We stay together well in a pace-line over the bridge.  Once over the bridge, where the climb starts, Anna makes a great effort to stay with us but is unable to match the pace.  I am able to stay with Troy for about a 1/3 of the climb but he pulls away.  There are 6 signs at the top of the hill that are all evenly spaced out.  I count them off.  Almost done!  I think I can break 7 minutes.  It’s so hard to push but I am able to give a little extra to the top…under 7 minutes!  Thank you Lord!  Anna comes soon after and finds a nice piece of grass to fall on. 

Now we rush home because the 10 mile run race starts at Noon.  It’s 10:45am and 5 miles to home!

PART 2 – RUN

We get to the race start 35 minutes before the start.  After we start, Anna starts 15 minutes later in the 10K and then 15 more minutes for Ariel in the 5K. Good timing especially since we are all warmed-up from the bike ride and short run from our parking spot.  We find our FCA teammates Caryn Galeckas and Suzanne Hartley.  We spend time in prayer for each other, for things going on in life and for the Lord’s Glory in our racing.  Our Father in heaven is what really matters!

Troy and I get to chat with friends from track, the girls chat with friends from school, and we all get to visit with others we haven’t seen for a while.  I love our little community! 

Troy and I line up for the start.  Today’s field seems little smaller than previous years.  Some of the heavy hitters are not present but there are some great competitors out here regardless.  The race starter let’s Troy give a shout out for our team FCA Endurance. 

Ready, set, go!  I feel great starting out. The first few miles are mostly downhill so hard to assess my energy. Troy pulls away.  He looks strong.

I hear a familiar voice behind me.  It’s Rosie from track. She’s chatting away with another track friend Arash.  They pass me and I tell them good job. 

Mile 1 is 8:18.  I can still see Troy and Rosie in the distance.  I’m the third woman right now.  There is one other girl between Rosie and I.  She’s not that far ahead of me.  I pass Arash and tell him good job.   

Mile 2 is 7:59.  Almost to the bottom of the downhill.  I get to climb one of my favorite hills, Cardiac Bypass.  It’s never easy but a fun challenge.  And I generally am able to pass folks on this trail.  I pass the girl early on.  Now I find myself all alone going up which is weird.  Fewer runners means fewer to pass.  I feel strong going up and my pace seems pretty good.  Not sure how this compares to my past races.  Thank you Lord!

Anna’s race has started.  I hope to see her!

Mile 3 is 9:13.  I make it to the top of the hill and get a break from climbing.  I cannot see any runners ahead.  Once around the bend I can see Rosie and others in the distance.  I’m still feeling pretty good. The test is coming once I hit Robie Point.

Ariel’s race has started.  She has been running really strong so I probably won’t see her once I merge with the 5Kers. 

Mile 4 is 8:25.  It’s downhill again.  Better enjoy before the real fun begins.  I merge with the 5Kers.  There are lots of kids.  I love to see that!  I look off in the distance for Troy and Ariel’s yellow shirts but don’t see them.

MIle 5 is 7:53. Now, it’s time to climb.  I see our friend Jon Seely running the 5K with his daughter Alice.  I catch them at the top of the hill and tell them good job.

Mile 6 is 9:42.  Thank you God for a break from the hills!  I’m starting to feel the fatigue.  I see Caryn and tell her good job.

Here comes Wyatt.  It looks like he’s leading the 10K. We exchange high fives.  A bit later I can see Anna!  I tell her she’s first woman.  I assume Wyatt was ahead of any other females.  She looks good.  I’m impressed especially with the hard effort she put into the ride this morning!

I pass Suzanne and tell her good job.

Mile 7 is 9:14. This is the long and flat out and back.  I should see Troy soon.  It’s quite muddy along here.  The 10kers go this way but they turn around earlier. We have to run all the way to Hwy 49. There is Troy!  He looks strong and is smiling.  I soon see Rosie.  She’s looking strong too!

It’s a trek out to 49.  I finally make it to the turn.  On the way back I get to see where everybody is at.  I still have quite a lead on the 3rd girl.  I see Arash and Manouch from ARD.  There is Suzanne again.  She’s just about at the 10K turn now.

Mile 8 is 9:07.  Up Robie Point!  I am feeling tired but I keep pressing up the hill.  This is another opportunity to pass runners.  It’s muddy here too as expected. Up and over. Going down the other side I feel unsteady.  My legs are feeling wobbly. 

Two more miles!  Ugh!  Thank you Lord. I find myself focusing a lot on the discomfort.  There are four more hills!

The trails get narrow these last miles and there is a lot of walkers to pass.  I try to politely say “on your left if you don’t mind”.  Everyone is really nice but I am sure it is annoying to have all these runners passing.

Mile 9 is 10:33.  Come on legs!  Just a little more.  In years past this can be my strongest section. Usually it’s because I’m racing someone to the finish.  This year I don’t have any competition around me so I’m wondering if that is why it’s hard to push.  It probably is also because the biking took more out of me this year.  I have done very little cycling so this morning was a shock to the system.   I “just keep running”.

One more hill!  I struggle up.  I hear Troy and the girls cheering in the distance.  Come on legs!

Mile 10 is 11:05. I still have a little more to the finish.  I get to the parking lot and push to the finish.  So good to be done!  Thank you Lord for getting me through another year!  So good to be back with my family!  We all had great races.  Ariel was 2nd Female and 6th Overall, Anna was 1st overall in her race and Troy was 5th overall.

Resolution Run 5K–Ariel-2022

Date/Location:	1/1/22, Overlook Park, Auburn
Distance:	5K (Actual about 3.23 mi)
Time:	29:45 (9:12 pace)
Place:	2nd Overall Female, 1st in Age Group!
Teammates:	10 Mile: Anna Tortosa, Arash Ghorbani, Craig Rienbolt, Diana Arteaga Falconi, John Justus, Manouch Shirvanioun, Michelle Nall, Robin Soares, Rosie Del Sarto, Troy Soares 10K: Anna Soares, Caryn Galeckas, Suzanne Hartley, Wyatt Hamiltonb 5K: Ariel Soares, Ashley Glass, Elizabeth Katsura, Hunter Glass, Seely Fam (Jon, Ardelle, Adalynn, Alice)

10, 9, I get into my race starting position, 7, 6, 5, I move my hand to the start button on my Garmin, 3, 2, 1, Go! I take off running a half sprint to get ahead of the part of the crowd. The crowd of people and I run out of the park, Overlook, and onto the road. Then, we turn onto a rock pavement path that merges onto Goliath, a hill that my family have personally named and have been quite familiar with. This hill has always been tough, but this race goes down it which is nice. The road flattens before going down again.

My feet pound on the asphalt. I know that after a while they will start hurting because of the pounding. I let myself go because it is harder to try to go straight down a hill slowly. I pass a lot of people going down. I go around a turn and the downhill gets steeper and steeper. It is getting harder to run down the hill. In the distance, I see my friend from the track, Nicolette. I can know her form from a mile away and I recognize her hair. I also see Daddy in the distance going up the first hill. Oh no! That means I have to go up the hill soon. I go down the last part of the downhill before the hills start. My Garmin beeps one mile. One down two to go.

My pace immediately slows down when I reach the start of the hill. No more wind brushing through my hair. The hills were harder than I expected, but I still give my best. I push on even though my body wants to walk. After the first big hill the trail evens out a bit and I go over some big rollers. The rollers were nice, but soon I had to get back to trekking up hills again.

I see Nicolette ahead, but every time I try to get closer, the gap does not change. I soon lose her because I can’t keep up with her on the hills. I go through an intersection where they point 5k straight and the other races right. The trail is very rocky. I go up a hill and down on the other side. This downhill ought to be named ¨Ankle Breaking Hill¨ because it is super steep and a ton of rocks are stationed throughout the downhill. I start catching up to a girl that passed me earlier. I try to catch up. Soon I pass her as we go up another hill. She turns and says good job. I realize she´s about my age. I say good job back.

I keep going through tough uphills followed by flats or small downhills. She stays right behind me. Someone yells watch out so I quickly step off the path as a super-fast 10k runner runs by. It isn´t long before he disappears around a corner. I go up another hill that she stops to walk dand I run it and pull away. I dodge a puddle of mud and then another one. This part of the trail is muddy. After a while, I hear footsteps quickly gaining on me. At first, I think it was the girl that I had pulled away from, but when I went to look I see another 10k runner. Since I turned around so quickly I didn´t see who it was. ¨Good job Ariel” said the 10k runner. Then I realized by the voice that it was Wyatt. I told him good job back and it wasn´t long before he too disappeared around the corner.

As I turn the corner, I remembered the trail from the last time I raced it. I am almost there! I run down to a creek, but the mud starts to make the path slippery. I literally have to grab onto the weeds and plants next to me to stop me from slipping. I jump over the ditch and run up the hill. I keep running. I´m almost there! I run around and corner and then begin my run up the hill to the finish. I hear people cheering behind me. I turn around and recognize a kid that was doing the 10k, who was probably in elementary school still and he was finishing 3rd! I try to stay ahead of him, but at the top of the hill, he passes me. I sprint giving my all for Christ and finish 2nd woman. I got a PR and under 30 minutes thanks to God. I was asking for His help throughout the whole thing and the credit is to Him for this race.

New Year’s Day Challenge-Anna-2022

Date/Location:	1/1/22 PART 1: Bike- Auburn, Overlook Park PART 2: Resolution Run -Auburn, Overlook Park
Distance:	Hill Climb #1 – 3m Old Foresthill Rd Hill Climb #2 - 1.2m Raley's Hill Resolution Run - 10K Trails
Time:	Hill Climb #1 – 21:53 Hill Climb #2 – 7:14 Run: 48:50
Place:	Bike: 2nd Hill Climb #1 & #2 Run: 1st Overall Woman, 1st W 10-19 Overall: 2nd New Years Challenge
Teammates:	Hill Climb: Robin Soares & Troy Soares 10 Mile: Anna Tortosa, Arash Ghorbani, Craig Rienbolt, Diana Arteaga Falconi, John Justus, Manouch Shirvanioun, Michelle Nall, Robin Soares, Rosie Del Sarto, Troy Soares 10K: Anna Soares, Caryn Galeckas, Suzanne Hartley, Wyatt Hamiltonb 5K: Ariel Soares, Ashley Glass, Elizabeth Katsura, Hunter Glass, Seely Fam (Jon, Ardelle, Adalynn, Alice)

25 Mile Bike Ride Summary

This year I decided to join my parents in their New Year’s Challenge bike ride. I wasn’t completely sure what to expect, but I knew I would be proud of myself when I finished it. The bike ride is supposed to be all about hills and especially the hill up from the Confluence. I’m still not perfectly sure if I can handle it, but I have already started the bike ride and there's no turning back now. After biking over to the Overlook to see if anyone has shown up to join us, we head onto the ride. This year it’s just my parents and me. I’m excited that I’m the youngest kid to do this bike ride of theirs. We bike down Auburn Folsom and turn onto Power House road. My Dad goes a different route in order to get farther mileage. We end up biking towards Glenview road, which is where the first hill climb starts. My Dad has caught up to us by now. After biking up Glenview Rd, I’m tired. I originally thought this was supposed to be a race, but no one was trying to beat me as I finished first up these hills. We then bike through Auburn towards the Confluence.

I have fun biking down towards the confluence, but it is always scary going around turns fast on a bike. I get to the bottom safely, thanks to God, and bike towards the uphill. That’s when I learned that it is an all uphill race to the top of this hill. I try to prepare myself for this hill climb. My Dad pulls out his racing sheet which has me going last. He is nice enough to change the order, but I still have to go after Mom which is going to be hard. We start the race and I race uphill chasing after my Mom. It's a long hill so I pace myself well. The road is blocked here because some boulders fell, but bikes can still bike on the road. It's nice that I get a whole lane to myself. As I continue to try to catch my Mom, I try to count the seconds between us. If anything I'm not really catching her. My Dad said that we should all end up biking together at about the halfway point of the hill where it gets flat for a section. Then we can draft off each other. I can already see my Dad and I hope I can stay ahead of him. My legs are hurting but I keep pushing up the hill. My Dad passes me and tells me good job. I feel like I can almost see the flat section so I try to hang with him but my legs can only do so much. He pulls ahead and I keep on pushing, doing my best for God.

The place where I thought would be flat is actually still more climbing. I keep climbing hoping for the flat to come soon so I can catch up. I finally get to the flat and push through it. My parents are nowhere in sight. I start biking uphill again and keep pushing even though my legs are hurting. I can see the upper road above me to my left and I know I’m close. I then see my parents come down the hill as they're cheering me on. I guess they got really farther ahead to have time to come back for me. They tell me the finish is just ahead and I push really hard around the corner. I see the stop sign and even though my legs don't want to, I stand up on my bike and push through the stop sign. It hurts so bad. I finish the bike and just stand over my bike crying. I'm not upset about my time or my pace, but it just hurt so bad. I push myself really hard and it just hurts. My parents congratulate me for getting under 22 minutes. I'm very happy about that. That's when I find out we have a second hill climb to do.

We bike down to the tallest bridge in Auburn and get ready to start the second race. The goal is to race across the bridge and up the hill to the road by the highway. We start off and I’m already falling behind a little bit. I pick it back up and stay with them to the hill. We start the hill and I then remembered how hard I pushed my legs. They are still tired. I stay with my parents for a little bit, but then drop back. As I’m biking up, I count the signs till the road. There are supposed to be 7 signs. I keep pushing up the hill and around the corner. I can see the top and my Dad waiting to cheer me on. I continue to push and stand up in the last section of the hill. I then collapse on the grass, which feels so good. I’m happy I finished, but I still have the bike ride back home. We bike together to the house and quickly change for the Resolution Run. The second half of my parents' New Year’s Challenge. I’m glad I did the bike ride, and will enjoy waiting a long time, till I do it again next year.

Resolution Run - 10K - Anna Soares

I’m getting ready to do the 2022 Auburn Resolution Run. This year I’m doing the 10k instead of the 10 mil beacuse I did my parents 25 mile bike ride challenge before. I’m pretty wiped out and my goal is just to make it through the race, at this point. I get to the starting line and hear the director countdown. He then starts the race. I start off a little fast with Wyatt and another fast guy setting the winning pace. I back down the pace and enjoy the run. A little boy about 8-10 years old runs fast to stay up with the leaders. I don’t know if he will be able to hold that pace. The course then starts to curve and go down Goliath hill that we normally run up for Cross Country. It’s really steep and I'm careful not to slip. After Goliath, the downhill continues as everyone runs down Placerado Road. I’m running next to a guy and I tell him I really don’t like going down hill and that it’s almost as bad as running up. He laughs. We stay together most of the way down the hill. So far I am in 2nd place overall for the women. Up ahead of me is a little 11 year old girl. I’m really impressed that she is still ahead of me. We then make a turn onto the trails and the long uphill to the finish. I’m at one mile. Only 5 to go! We run along the trails and get to the first aid station. I don’t get water though beacuse it is a cupless race and I forgot a cup. I think I should be fine .I make a turn and start the long out and back portion of the race. I know this area pretty well though because the cross country team runs it a lot. It almost feels like an advantage to know exactly how much farther I have to go. I now pass the 11 year old girl and tell her good job. She is still running at a great pace. I'm now running mostly downhill but I know it will eventually be uphill on the way back. We get to a section of the course and I remember doing mile repeats and 400 sprints here during Cross County. At least I don't have to be sprinting now. I continue to run the course easily up and down knowing every turn. I just keep my eye out for the top 10K runners now. They should be coming back very soon. After running a little farther I see the the first place 10K runner come around the corner. I tell him good job and look for Wyatt who I hope should be right behind him. Not too long after, I see Wyatt come by and I cheer him on. Hopefully he can get closer to the top runner. Now I keep my eye out for the turnaround. I see a few more people coming back from the turn around, including the young boy! Every time I do the Resolution Run I always seem to get beat by a little kid! It’s crazy. As I’m running on the trails, I realize that they are much muddier than normal. I have to be very careful not to slip. I do quick feet on the slippery areas and try to run on the driest sections. I can't remember what socks I wore today, hopefully they're not white. Up ahead I finally see the turnaround and head on back. I look for the little girl that I passed and I see her not too long after. I cheer her on. She has a really good pace for an 11 year old. I'm very impressed. I also saw a guy right in front of her that I was originally running next to. My goal is not to let him pass me. Hopefully I can stay ahead of him till the end. I'm starting to feel my legs now but at least they are looser than the start of the race. Now I have the uphill to climb. Inside this long out and back, there are little loops you have to do. For instance, right now I have to climb up this hilly section. The hills are not too long and eventually I reach the top and start heading down the other side. For most people the downhill on the other side would be the best, but not for me. This downhill is the downhill that I originally fractured my ankle on. I go slow and watch every single rock that I see and I pray that I won't twist an ankle. I get to the bottom of the hill and turn back onto the out and back. I thank God for keeping my ankles firm and I have new energy to keep running. I see my Mom go by and I tell her good job. She's heading out towards the turnaround for the 10 mile. I know I must have missed my Dad. He's probably ahead of her.

I know I'm getting closer to the original course that I left to do the turn around. Once I get there all I have left is about a mile and a half. Maybe I'll even see Ariel who is doing the 5k. She'll probably be way ahead though. I run down a hill and get back onto the course. I know I have about a 1.5 miles left and I also know this like the back of my hand. I try to tell people on their left as I run through the stream of 5kers. After running for a little bit I  get to a steep uphill and start pushing up it. I know this uphill so well. Every time we run it for cross country, I always push everyone to run as hard as they can up it. I keep my focus on the top of the hill and run hard just like in cross country practice. At the top of the hill I pass a friend Elizabeth from my parents Tuesday night track. I tell her good job and keep running. I now head down towards a little creek. I pass two runners walking down the muddy section and forget to say excuse me. I also gently brush pass by one of the runners as I’m going by them. She tells me to say “excuse me” next time I go by. I quickly say “yes mame, I’m very sorry.” I feel bad about forgetting to be courteous in a race, especially when I’m representing Jesus. I try to get back on a habit of saying excuse me, on your left.

I’m almost back to the Overlook now! I have one long hill left now. During XC practice I also encourage everyone to push this hill, so I push hard up it. I know it’s not too long, but there is a steep section at the end. I get up half the hill to the flat section and gain speed for the last half of the climb. I pass by a crying 5 year old, and encourage her to keep going. I get to the hill and push up it. It hurts bad and I want to stop, but I give my best for God. After doing a bike ride and almost 6 miles, the only thing left is God to help me finish this. I get to the top of the hill and push onto the sidewalk to the finish. I sprint around the corner and point to God. I thank him for keeping me safe and giving me energy. I say hi and good job to Wyatt, Ariel, and my friend Hunter who finished before me. I then collapse on the grass.

Praise The Lord For He Is Good, His Love Endures Forever!

Auburn Resolution Run–10mi–Troy

Date/Location:	1/1/22 PART 1: Bike- Auburn, Overlook Park PART 2: Resolution Run -Auburn, Overlook Park
Distance:	Hill Climb #1 – 3m Old Foresthill Rd Hill Climb #2 - 1.2m Raley's Hill Resolution Run - 10K Trails
Time:	Hill Climb #1 – 18:21 Hill Climb #2 – 6:31 Run: 1:23:03 (8:15/mi pace)
Place:	Bike: 3rd Hill Climb #1 & #2 Run: 2nd M 50-54, Overall 5th Overall: 3rd New Years Challenge
Teammates:	Hill Climb: Anna Soares & Robin Soares 10 Mile: Anna Tortosa, Arash Ghorbani, Craig Rienbolt, Diana Arteaga Falconi, John Justus, Manouch Shirvanioun, Michelle Nall, Robin Soares, Rosie Del Sarto 10K: Anna Soares, Caryn Galeckas, Suzanne Hartley, Wyatt Hamiltonb 5K: Ariel Soares, Ashley Glass, Elizabeth Katsura, Hunter Glass, Seely Fam (Jon, Ardelle, Adalynn, Alice)

It’s a beautiful day!  We started off doing the bicycle portion of the Soares New Years’ Day Challenge.  It was Robin, myself, and Anna this year for the hill climbs.  Anna descended into the Hwy 49 canyon like a pro.  I was proud of her in her first time up the hill challenge.  It was probably the hardest biking effort she’s done.  Robin and I were happy with our times.  Not the fastest but respectable.  It’s great to be at the top of a mountain with your family.. a little closer to God and so appreciative of His blessings. 

After the bike it was a quick change into run clothes, refueling as fast as we could, and then using the 1/2 mi jog from our car as our warm-up.

At the starting area!  We see our dear FCA Endurance friends Suzanne & Caryn and take a picture.  We all pray together for our run, for God’s strength, for God’s blessing and, most importantly, to run for God’s glory.

The race announcer allows shout-outs so I take the opportunity to mention FCA Endurance of Auburn in the microphone. 

We also see a lot of our Tuesday Night Track running friends! 

At the starting line Robin and I get ready.  Anna is sleeping on the grass in preparation for her 10k in 30 minutes.  I meet a triathlete named Craig at the start line.  No one really wants to stand on the start line which means there aren’t many competitive racers today.  But still a pretty good turnout.  Last year it was virtual and many people express their appreciation to just be running together again.  It really feels like a family of runners here.

Go!  It’s a mellow start.. which is good because I have to fiddle to get my Garmin going as we negotiate leaving the park.  The 25 mile bike ride with hill climbs really took it out of my legs and I wonder what the running hills will feel like.  Well, the first 3 miles are mostly downhill so, for now, having some fun!  I run next to a guy named David.  We talk about pace and think we’ll be similar.  But he pushes the first short hill and leaves me far behind.  Now I have a goal to catch back up.

Mile 1 7:17. I have a right heel that has often given me problems, but I’m so thankful to the Lord on days like today when it feels terrific!  I appreciate running so much more when I know it could easily be miserable but isn’t thanks to God.

Mile 2 7:19. I try to be as efficient as possible on the long descent.  It’s hard to go fast and still maintain good form.  I can see David ahead now running next to 2 boys.  Wow, these kids are holding a fast pace for a hard 10 mile race!

At the bottom I get my first taste of the tough, rocky climb.  It’s definitely harder for me this year, I’m really breathing hard.  By the top I see I didn’t really gain any ground on David and the kids.  That’s ok, my foot is feeling great and I know my job, as always, is to give God my best effort, following His instructions and reminders of how to run a smart race.

Mile 3 8:46. I love this flat section. then a tough gradual climb

Mile 4 8:03. I hit the steep descent down the Dam Rd.  I’m trying to swing my arms quicker to increase my turn-over.  I think it’s working as I pass David and encourage him on.  I also pass the 2 kids briefly as they stop for a moment to pick up something they dropped.  I eat a gel in preparation for the water station coming up.  It’s a “cupless” race so I have my water bottle ready to fill.  The 2 kids go by me but they pause at the water station perhaps figuring out how to use their foldable cups with the water jugs.  I just go to a volunteer with a pitcher of water and get a quick fill.  Great pit stop and I’m off.  But the kids pass me again quickly.

Mile 5 7:17. This is the section that I usually see Ariel who does the 5k but she’s gotten so fast that I expect her to be far ahead.  I start the switch-back climb where I’ve passed her before.  I really miss having that short meeting as we pass.  She’s always so cheerful and encouraging.  But instead I see Suzanne and Caryn on the grueling short climb.

Now onto the rollers.  I’m doing good thanks to the Lord and maintaining 8 min pace which I mentioned to David in the beginning as a possibility but wasn’t sure at all about it.

I see the top 10k runner coming back, a familiar face as one of the faster runners in our region.  But not too far behind him is the local-legend cross-country runner, Wyatt Hamilton.  He’s always happy running and gives me a high 5. 

Mile 6 9:16. Anna is somewhere behind him and I would love to see her but I now head around Robie Pt while I expect she’s going over it.  I hope her legs aren’t too beat from the bike ride.  And I pray she doesn’t sprain an ankle.  She’s probably near the spot where she broke her ankle less than a year ago.

I catch the kids and start talking to them, telling them how impressed I am that a 13 and 11 year old can run this course so well.  They latch on behind me and I try to help their pacing and show them some tips.  I love being able to encourage young runners and it makes me run better as well.  I show them how to ease up on the climbing and take full advantage of the descents.

We see the lead 10 milers coming back and I count them to find out I’m in 4th. 

Mile 7 7:58. It’s a tough climb up to the turn-around and I’m so relieved to start back down, even with wobbly legs.  I see David, and then Nicolette, from Tuesday Track, leading the race for the women.

I look forward the most to seeing Robin… and there she is.. smiling, as usual!  I tell her God is helping my foot feel good and that I love her.  I see Suzanne and other familiar faces.

Mile 8 7:59. I start the tough, muddy, even icy, climb up Robie.  I’m really using my arms more to quicken my turn-over.  I’m breathing really hard but God has taught me over the years that I wont die

Down the steep backside of Robie Pt I go by the spot Anna broke her ankle and pray that she’ll be ok this time (I forget that she already went through this section).

I’m at 8min pace still but the hardest mile climb is still to come.  My hope is to keep it from climbing about 8:10 or 8:15 average. 

Mile 9 8:43. Here we go.. steep single-track.. legs are hurting.. a lot of 10k and 5k walkers.. but they’re really accommodating moving to the side to let me pass.

At the final stream crossing it’s slippery and crowded but somehow I get through really well.  My legs are like mush, I thank God they’re able to hold me up in these technical sections.

Finally, with 1/2 mile to go, I feel the energy completely go.  My legs are screaming.  I have to walk a tough section.  But I push through the burn and hearing the announcer know I’m close.  The last climb is lined with supporters.  I hear Ariel, Anna, Wyatt and others cheering.  At the top Anna says the finish line is so close but that last section of sidewalk feels so long. 

Thank you, Lord, it’s so good to be done and I’m so appreciative of the good race performance you gave me!  My foot never hurt which is an incredible blessing.  It’s a thrilling feeling to be done and I can’t wait to cheer in the others and celebrate the races God allowed us to have.