Women’s Nike Half Marathon

Date/Location:	October 19, 2014 – San Francisco, CA
Distances:	13.1 Miles
Time:	1:40:53
Place:	11th/2632
Teammates:	Betsy Davis, Cerissa Patterson, Courtney Loveday

I leave Belmont at 5am.  I stayed with an FCA teammate, Michelle Ladcani, and her family last night.  Troy and I met Michelle at the starting line of the Boston marathon in 2012.  She joined me at the Napa Marathon this year to celebrate my 40th birthday.  What a great night hanging out and enjoying their amazing view of the whole bay!  It is different to be doing a race alone without my family but I know they are supporting me from afar!

My plan is to park between the starting line and the finish at Lafayette Park.  Thankfully, I find a spot without much circling.  With my headlamp on, I run to the start.

It’s crazy!  There are 25,000 people here and it’s a mad house!  I find my way to my starting gate and it’s much calmer here.  I see Betsy Davis of Tri-California and we get a chance to catch up and pray for each other. 

Soon Joan Benoit Samuelson comes out and gives us some words of encouragement.  I remember watching her run in the first women’s Olympic marathon.  My mom took me to Los Angeles to watch that historic day.  Very cool to see her out here!

Okay, ready to go!  The air horns sound and the mob begins it’s way down Post St.  Even though I’m one of the first starting gates, I still have to dodge a lot of folks before I can really get going.  I’m trying to stay with the 1:40 pacer.  That’s about 7:38 per mile.  I haven’t been putting in the mileage usually needed to go fast but I did run a 1:44 a few weeks ago in the Challenge Rancho Cordova half iron distance.

I finally catch up to the pacer a half mile later.  One gal is dressed as Buzz Lightyear.  Amazing to watch her “wings” bounce around as she runs a quick pace!

Mile 1 is 7:20.  A downhill first mile with adrenaline makes for a fast split.  I imagine the pacer is looking ahead to the many hills and needs to stay ahead of pace. 

Mile 2 is 7:22.  We go through the first aid station and the pacer doesn’t grab anything.  I sure hope she’ll get to drink something.  I think about trying to grab her something down the road.  I’m loaded up today carrying my own drink along with my car keys and phone.  Although a lot to carry, it is very convenient to be self sufficient!

Mile 3 is 7:48.  I’m starting to fall back from the pacer.  The fast pace she is setting is just something I am unable to hold especially with my hamstrings tightening up.  I just need to keep her in sight.

Mile 4 is 7:22.  We are running through Golden Gate Park.  The sun is starting to rise, it’s mostly quiet and very beautiful.  It’s hard though to soak it all in with the discomfort.  I can still see the pacer, yeah!

Mile 5 is 7:27.  There are all kinds of folks entertaining and cheering along the way.  The aid stations are well manned.  I wonder what these spots will look like after most of the runners have come through.  Thanks, God, for these folks that volunteer to help and clean up!  Without them, this wouldn’t be possible.

Mile 6 is 7:25.  I’m hanging in there.  I am at my max leg speed.  My hamstrings are very sore and I’m thinking of tricks I can do to ease the pain. 

Mile 7 is 7:25.  Man, this park is massive!  I’m running by the cross country course I did here several years back.  I remember the great shape I was in back then and running the Women’s Nike Half in 1:30.  I would love to be there again…but I’m totally content with what I can eek out today! 

Mile 8 is 7:46.  Out of the park now.  The bigger hills are coming!  I can barely see the 1:40 pacer but I know that I am still on track to run 1:40…it all depends on the hamstrings.  Please Lord help me to persevere!

Mile 9 is 7:44.  We’ve been getting some more rollers now…time to prep for the BIG hill coming!

Mile 10 is 7:34.  And the BIG hill is here!  Usually I run down this hill…in the first Women’s Nike I did and the SF Marathon.  Coming from Auburn, I hope to have an advantage climbing.  I soon see a sign that says 1000 meters to go.  Oh, I can handle that, right?  In the next quarter mile I find more girls are passing me and I’m struggling.  Wow, I totally underestimated the difficultly of this hill!  When is it going to end?!  I hear a girl shout an explicative about the hill…we all deal with these things differently.  I just want to put my energy into getting to the top.

Mile 11 is 8:32.  Done!  Phew, that was hard!!  I look at my watch and see that it’s going to be close.  I have a goal to be the passer as much as possible and not be be passed.

Mile 12 is 7:12.  I’m really trying to push it now.  I’m surprised by how limited I feel.  I feel like I’ve maxed out on the speed my legs can go.  I just gotta push.  A few girls have passed me but mostly I’m keeping my goal.  Thank you Lord for sustaining me!

Mile 13 is 7:19.  The finish is near!  I cannot speed up anymore but I am able to maintain.  As I’m about to cross the finish I look up to the sky and thank God for getting me here.  I hear the announcer, Sean English, well known from Wildflower, say “and here comes FCA Endurance”.  It’s nice that our team gets a shout out!  I cross the line at 1:40:53!  Yeah, I did it with Christ!  So great to be done!

I get my Tiffany’s necklace and walk towards the firefighters in their tuxes.  I could open the blue box and get my picture with them but I decide to take it home and open it with the most handsome man in my life, Troy.  I call Troy and the girls and we celebrate!  Time to drive home and give them some hugs!

Challenge Rancho Cordova–Robin

Date/Location:	October 5th, 2014 – Rancho Cordova, CA
Distances:	Swim 1.2M – Bike 56M – Run 13.1
Time:	5:06:07 (32:25-1:36-2:46:20-1:53-1:43:53)
Place:	1st/16
Teammates:	FCA Teammates: Harvey Soule, Relay Team: Pete, Tim, Troy Outman Other Friends: Brad Seng, Rocket Men Relay: Dave Campbell (runner), Stephanie Artis, Todd Osterberg

Not sure what to expect today.  Troy’s Ironman prep and organizing the girl’s school jog-a-thon left little time for training.  But fortunately I did still get some training in.  Hopefully it will be enough not to suffer too badly.

We are up early and on our way to the start.  We arrive and are able to park right next to transition.  Sweet!  It’s pitch black out here.  I have to carefully make my way to my bike which stayed the night in transition.

Soon it’s time to head down to the swim start for the FCA pre-race prayer.  It’s starts off as a small group, including two gals from our swim team, and grows by the end.  We finish and I chat with some folks and encourage them to enjoy the day. Troy and I pray with a gentleman who is grieving the tragic loss of his son.  It was a rainy night 2 years ago.  His little boy ran out in the street.  He unknowingly hit him with his truck.  It was an accident that lives with him everyday.  My heart breaks for this man and as we part ways, I turn to Troy and cry.  I cannot imagine being in his shoes.  It puts the day in perspective.  Life is precious!  Lord, thank you for my family!  Thank you for this life and what you’ve given me!  Help me not take that for granted!

I jump in and get a nice warm-up.  I swim to the start.  I feel surprisingly good and the nerves are flowing…all good signs!  It’s hard to believe since I’ve only been to the pool barely once a week!

THE SWIM
Ready, set, go!  I get off the line well and am right behind the top girls.  I focus on keeping my form together so that with each stroke I’m moving forward better and faster.  It pays off and by the first buoy, I’m holding my position in 5th.  There is a girl that’s been slightly ahead and though I’m not right on her toes, I am in her slipstream. 

At the next buoy, I’m still on track and head back towards the start.  Another girl comes alongside and we stay neck and neck until the last buoy.  I’m surprised how good I still feel.  I’m working hard but not loosing steam.

On the last turn, I dig deep and pull ahead slightly.  I can see the finish!  I’m home free!  I surge to the ramp and run out ahead, still in 5th.  I pull over and take my wetsuit off.  It comes off with no problems!  Thank you God!  I high five the girls and run to my bike.

THE BIKE
I make fast transition and run out.  I still struggle a bit putting my feet into my shoes already mounted on my pedals.  I do better but it’s still something I need to work on…or I’m going to take someone (or myself) out one of these days if I don’t.  

Mile 5: I make it out of Folsom and am now on the back country roads.  It’s hard to tell what place I’m it but so far I’ve passed a few under 40 gals…and no gals have come past yet.  I feel pretty comfortable but my hamstrings are already talking to me a little bit.  Troy lowered my seat in hopes that it would provide some relief.  We’ll see how the next miles go.

Mile 10: I’ve been passed by a few gals that are not in my age group.  One was 57 years old!!  I am in awe!  She leaves me in the dust!  Another gal, Muddy Water’s team, I’m able to keep in my sight. 

Mile 20: My hamstrings are pretty sore now and I find relief in holding a few different positions on my seat.  I’ve lost sight of the Muddy gal and a few others have passed me.  This last handful of miles have been on Latrobe Road and it’s mostly flat…a weakness of mine.  The negative thoughts start creeping in.

Mile 30: Finally I’m off Latrobe.  Hwy 16 is another long stretch of road.  I’m slowly starting to reel in a few of the gals including Muddy’s girl.  My hamstrings are really sore and I find a position that helps some and try to stay there. 

Mile 40:  So ready to get off the bike…but not totally excited to run yet.  Though my hamstrings are still hurting, I seem to be ganging some momentum.  I should be sub 3 hours…sweet!

Mile 50: The end is so close!!  The run is sounding better and better with every mile!  I have no idea where I stand among my competitors…must push hard to the end no matter what!  I’ve been able to re-pass some girls but the Muddy girl alludes me!

Mile 55: Homestretch!  I can see the finish and folks already running. 

I get to transition and hand off my bike to a volunteer. Okay, it’s go time now!  Whoa, I’m tight and sore! 

I make a quick transition but as I’m just about to exit, I realize my Garmin is still on my bike.  I run back to the racks and have no idea where they put my bike.  A few super volunteers lead me to it and then I’m off once again.

THE RUN
Here we go!  Once out of transition my running legs start to kick in.  A half mile later I’m running past the Expo/Finish area where Troy and the girls are camped out at with the FCA tent.  Anna and Ariel stop playing at the water play area for a moment to join me for a little bit.  So great to see their smiling faces!  Troy takes a break too to cheer me on, too.

This is a 2 loop run.  It’s warming up quick and seems to be in the low 90’s already.  It will become more challenging as I go along!

Mile 1 is 7:51.  I’m surprised that I can go under 8 min pace since my hamstrings were bothering me on the bike and I haven’t been able to run much lately.    I feel like I could push harder, too, but I decide not to risk it.  I just focus on holding here.

A few guys have passed me but I get a big surprise when this pro goes by me like a flash…wow (he went on to run 1:14 for the course!). 

This section of course has a little bit of shade…I’m guessing the only shade I’ll see for the rest of the loop

Mile 2 is 7:56.  Still feeling strong and slowly catching folks ahead of me.

Mile 3 is 7:52. No shade makes it tough but I’m still feeling great!  A girl with a “Tri 4 Him” jersey flies by.  We encourage each other.  Soon after a few more girls pass by and I realize they are all pro women on the 2nd loop of the run.  I sure hope the Tri 4 Him gal can hold them off!

Mile 4 is 7:54.  Still feeling solid and my hamstrings are good!  I take a Hammer gel.

Mile 5 is 8:00.  Not sure why I slowed down but my pace bounces back.  The plan is to try to hold this until Mile 9 and then try to pick it up.

Mile 6 is 7:57.  Another pro lady passes me.  How I wish this were the end of my second loop!  Soon enough I’m back to the Expo/Finish.  I see our friend and pro Brad Seng cheering for me!  I am so surprised.  I stop and give him a hug.  Sarah Outman is cheering and I wave.  I see Troy and he asks me how I’m doing.  This next loop will be very telling!  I might be able to break 5:10…maybe even 5:05!  That would be super awesome and a PR I think!

Mile 7 is 7:51.  Wow, maybe I can really turn it on at mile 9!  This is going great!  I see Todd Osterberg and tell him great job.

Mile 8 is 8:05.  Oh boy, still feel good but doubting holding the pace.

Mile 9 is 7:54.  Okay, back to normal.  I take a Hammer gel.  Time to start pushing…but it’s hard…maybe I’ll wait another mile.

Mile 10 is 8:04.  I finally can grab some Coke at the next aid station.  I don’t feel as energetic and it’s almost as if my body is spending energy digesting the gel instead of giving me energy.  Hopefully the caffeine will kick in. 

Mile 11 is 8:15.  Oh boy, loosing energy!  The next aid station doesn’t have Coke…oh dear!  Forget speeding up, don’t slow down!  Lord help me hold it together.

Mile 12 is 8:15.  Hanging on!  I’m not totally falling apart but I’m definitely going downhill. 

Soon I can hear the announcer at the finish line. Yeah!  This is almost over.  I’m really wiped out now and it is so hard to keep moving.  I tell myself that I can lay down at the finish line.  The excitement of being done helps me pick up the pace.

Mile 13 is 7:58.  Alright, there is the finish chute…wait a second…I have to run around some buildings first?  What torture.  I smile anyway because it’s almost over and I’ve got a great time going!  I round the corner and there are the girls waiting to run in with me.  I see Troy and ask him if this is okay with the race officials to finish with the girls and he gives me a thumbs up…yeah!  Most races don’t let you finish with family anymore.  I miss running in with my girls!  This is awesome!  We grab hands and run in together.  What a great way to end the day!  THANK YOU JESUS!

BTW, to top it off, I did get to lay down and Anna took really great care of me!

 

Name	Time	Age Group	Place	Swim	Bike	Run
TEAM ROCKET MEN- DAVE CAMPBELL (R)	4:15:21	MRELAY	1st	28:37	2:20:40	1:24:36
BRAD SENG	4:15:57	PRO	16th	30:39	2:24:37	1:18:27
STEPHANIE ARTIS	5:01:34	W35-39	4th	32:34	2:43:39	1:42:21
ROBIN SOARES	5:06:07	W40-44	1st	32:25	2:46:20	1:43:53
TEAM FCA - PETE (S), TIM (B) & TROY OUTMAN (R)	5:27:48	MRELAY	2nd	29:15	3:20:12	1:37:04
HARVEY SOULE	6:51:50	M60-64	2nd	47:48	3:21:44	2:30:08
TODD OSTERBERG	6:55:26	M40-44	41st	37:25	3:12:59	2:57:26

Ironman Lake Tahoe, Sort of… (Troy)

Date/Location:	September 21st, 2014 – Lake Tahoe, CA
Distances:	Swim 2.4m – Bike 112m – Run 10K
Time:	8:17 (1:06-10:00-5:58-5:00–4:13:11)
Place:	?

This was it, the week of Ironman Lake Tahoe. I drive up to the cabin 5 days before the race, run a couple miles in the evening, and then get locked out of the cabin, requiring me to drive home for the extra key. Not the early bedtime I was hoping, but God will make it all work out.

The next day I swim with Teammate, Flor Hodges, have breakfast with Flor and friend, Chad Moore from Texas, and then ride 14 miles, still adjusting my bike seat. Even when I’ve said it’s perfect, I continue to look for a better position. It’s become an obsession. The bike is so important on this course. My family arrives in the evening and all is right in the world.

On Thursday, we register and experience the first heavy smoke. Fortunately we have dust masks. Unfortunately we didn’t bring enough for everyone that wants them. I’ve always been caferful about the air I breathe in order to keep athletically healthy the best that I can.

Friday is Iron Prayer.  I spend time with God and prepare for my talk. I really feel the Lord putting “Let Faith Bridge the Gap” on my heart. I’m convicted about my lack of faith in details for the race, particularly my bike position. I feel Him telling me to let it go and have faith He’ll make it right. The Iron Prayer goes great. I share about having faith that God will bridge those “gaps” in our plan. My friend, Troy, had reminded me often that the “gaps” were opportunities for God to show his power in. Like with my concern that my run training wasn’t enough after recovering from the broken ribs. Then Pastor Dan Perkins shared about how much we have to give, when God blesses it and multiplies it.

Saturday Anna & Ariel did the Iron Kids race and did great.

 

 

 

 

 

Despite wanting desperately to ride my bike some more and change the position lower, I committed to God that I would trust Him and turn my bike in as-is… which I did. Then we enjoyed some time on the beach. And a great carbo-load (or protein load for some) at the cabin.

Race morning

Everything is going well. It’s 51 degrees! With 10min to go, I put my wetsuit on next to the VIP tent where Robin & the girls are having breakfast. They give me hugs and I head off, finally ready, after a year in the making, to put myself to the test and push harder than I have in years.

Then everything stopped and they announced the Ironman was cancelled. Due to bad smoke on other parts of the course. You can imagine the looks of disbelief. 2000 athletes from every state and around the world. We were sure it was just as difficult for the directors to cancel as it was for the athletes to hear it was cancelled. Air quality for hazardous. It was the right call to make.

For me there are always 2 responses to racing. 1 side of me doesn’t want to go through extreme difficulty, and therefore is relieved the race is off. The other side knows that pushing through the challenges is important and excellent training for the challenges of life.

The swim course was clear. There’s always a chance wind or rain will clear the air. My family has been helping me train for this since the day after Robin raced last year. After today, it will be 1 or 2 years before I test myself this way again. Before giving up, we gathered together and said, “We could still do it? You sure you want to spend the whole day supporting?” My family said, “That’s what we came here for”. Anna & Ariel’s tears turned to smiles of excitement. This would be very hard, but I would race it just as planned, in hopes of qualifying! We prayed about it and would be ready to stop if conditions & breathing were too difficult.

The Swim

At 6:50am I said to myself, “Go!” Others were also swimming unofficially.  Although the race venue was being quickly disassembled, some of swim support staff, including friends Desiree Swift and her dad Bob in their kayaks, remained in place along with the buoys. Thankfully they looked over the dozens swimming the course. They were told they could leave but they stayed instead.

The water was calm and clear.  I didn't get too cold and was able to push well.  The 2^nd loop was the same as the first. I was happy with my time of 1:06 (although I didn't beat Robin's time last year).

T1

I organized my clothes well so they went on fast.  But transition was still 10min.  Robin handed me the painter's mask and Anna handed me my phone.  I was off! 

The Bike

Temperature was good.  Air was good... until Tahoe City.  There was quite a bit of smoke so I quickly put on the mask.  Other than my glasses fogging up, it worked well.  I breathed through my nose and out my mouth to help with filtering the air. 

At 20mi, Robin and the girls had an aid station where I shed clothes and got water.  By 30mi, I had seen about 4 other riders, but they weren't wearing masks.  One was Rory Duckworth who blew by with a friendly greeting (he went on to finish it all in 10:26!) I was concerned for them as the air seemed pretty bad without it.  My Garmin stopped working so I had to guess my average speed at about 21mph. 

At 40mi, I started up Hwy 267.  I tried not to breath too hard climbing through Northstar.  One thing that was impressive was how fast Ironman removed traces of the course. All the arrows, mile markers, and aid stations were gone, but the porta-potties remained.  I had to jump the locked cable at the top of Northstar.. and then it was all downhill.. until the big climb up Brockway Summit.  Fortunately Robin and the girls were cheering which really helped.

Over the top I flew down and looked forward to the clean air in Kings Beach.  I breathed freely without the mask for the next 10mi.  At 50mi, Robin and girls gave me my needs bag.  Such great support!  I put my mask back on at Tahoe City, but in the distance it looked like the skies were clearing up. 

At 60mi the rain came!  This was an answer to prayer.  At 70mi I was wet and a little cold.  Unfortunately, the rain didn't help the smoke like I thought.  I forced myself to fuel up and drink every 5 mi but it meant taking my mask off momentarily. 

At 80mi I turned into Northstar.  Robin, the girls, Troy & Sarah Outman, and Flor Hodges and her son Carson were all there cheering me on and handing more water!  So great!

Now for the final climb up Brockway.  Like Robin said, it's a whole different climb the 2nd time.  I tried to focus on good cadence.  It took forever but finally, at mile 90, Team Soares, Outman, and Hodges were visible at the top.  Happily I tell them I'll be done in an hour, hoping to break 6hrs.

This time flying into Kings Beach didn't bring with it clear air.  The West winds picked up and now smoke covered the entire course.  I realize now that the air isn't getting better and the marathon won't be possible.  The last 10mi were tough but I did manage to finish in 5:58.

After a reuniting with family and friends at Squaw Valley, a 5 minute transition, I started my partial (10k) marathon.

 

 

The Run

Oh, the legs were awkward for a few hundred yards.  Then it looked more like a run.  By 2mi I was doing better at 9:15 pace. 

This pace, probably not good enough to qualify with, was all I had while also trying not to breathe too hard.. which was hard around the Squaw Valley Resort.  At 4mi, at Hwy 89, the team was there, the girls were dancing and cheering loudly. 

I turned around and headed back and Troy joined me (outside assistance pacing) for the last 2.2 mi to the makeshift finish line in the parking lot.  Managed 9:15 pace back up the hill for a 10k run split of 57:32.  Total time 8:17.  The girls put on my finisher medal and hat (these were available to everybody).

It was a great feeling to accomplish part of the race. After a year of wondering if I could survive the swim, conquer those hills and still be able to run, I’m thankful God allowed it all to work. I was able to push well, the nutrition (using Vitargo) worked well, and the mask worked well.  I fell like God blessed the experience and kept me safe. My attitude was for His will, ready to quit when He made it look unsafe, but not going to quit if it was just me not wanting to work hard. (1 Cor 9:27)

I'm very thankful for my family and friends cheering me on in the unofficial partial Ironman Lake Tahoe!

For our family, the Ironman training, racing & supporting is the pinnacle opportunity every 2 yrs. to test ourselves. So thankful I was able to do most of it anyway, accomplish my goals, and see my girls' tears turn to joy. Conquering those hills in 6hrs with a mask & only nose breathing, was a huge accomplishment. It’s not just another training day that can be done anytime, it was an Ironman.

However, it’s important to understand it’s different for everyone. Breathing bad air is a risk. Some do it to earn a living and some had to do it at the Summer Olympics. For us, it was a year-long trek, almost cut short by 11 hrs, but we pushed it to within 3 hrs, until we felt from God it was right to stop. We’re all feeling fine. IM Lake Tahoe was cancelled but I’m not disappointed. Instead, it was fulfilling. For me, the memories of conquering struggles with family support are more valuable than money. And I wouldn’t be able to push like that with a smile if not for Christ in my life.

Lake Tahoe Half Triathlon (Troy)

Date/Location:	August 24, 2014 – West Shore of Lake Tahoe at Ed’ZBerg Sugar Pine State Park, CA
Distances:	Swim 1.2m – Bike 56m – Run 1/2 Mara
Time:	5:10:17 (34:01 - 3:10 - 2:48:54 - 1:14 - 1:43:00)
Place:	2nd/11 M45-49; 9th OA
Teammates:	Dave Tarkington, Katy Rosane

Prep
It's colder than expected in the morning.  I arrive at Sugar Pine Point Park at 5:30am.  It's 48 deg, 20 deg lower than Auburn!  Cold is my worst fear in racing.

Robin & the girls are back at home.  We support each other at all our races.. except for 1 or 2 in the season.  This race all my support will come from God, the greatest supporter.

I have a couple jackets on, but it's not enough.  I get cold easily.  Should've brought gloves, beanie and warmer jacket.  I run a little to warm up and then see the incredible view of the starting area.  Lake Tahoe down below a grassy shore with the sun starting to rise.  I can't help but hear God calling me to stop in this peaceful spot and listen to Him.

I meet Katie Rosane, another Teammate, who also broke some ribs this season.  She's trying them out in today's race, hoping the swim won't hurt too much. I also meet Anna, a woman we met before the Auburn Triathlon.  She's so thankful for the little help we gave her then. That was her 1st triathlon.  Today she's braving the half.

I'm still cold. I leave Robin a text before heading to the swim.  I walk down with Anna and we pray on the beach beforehand.  The beach is cold.  Thinking the water is 67, much warmer than the air, I head in to swim.  It's very rocky and takes a long time to get out there.  The water is more like 60 and not helping me warm up.  I swim some and then wait for the start.  Now I'm shivering in the water.  It's too long of a trek to get back to the beach.  I really want to start this all over and be on the beach.

Swim
Go!  I'm glad to be swimming, hoping to work hard and warm up.  But the thinner air at 6,000ft is reducing my effort.  I find I need to breathe every 2nd stroke, instead of 3rd, much of the time to get enough oxygen.  With being cold and needing air, I don't even think about finding a draft and never really do get one.

Good things about this swim: 1) there's no bumping.  Everyone is spread out nicely, even around the buoy. 2) the water is so clear and the bottom out here is sandy with artistically arranged boulders.

The swim feels so long getting to the 3rd buoy, as if we're swimming up river.  I feel very slow.  Coming into shore I hope there will be sand.  But soon sand gives way to rocks.  Now I have to somehow balance on them and walk.  Low on oxygen, high on heart rate, and disoriented after standing, it's a miracle I walked out without hurting my feet.

T1
I try to sprint up the steep bank to warm up but no change.  In transition I get the suit off, put my FCA bike jacket on, socks, helmet and go.  As I mount my bike, inside I'm dreading the ride.  I'm so cold I don't even want to touch the metal handlebars with my hands.  But this must be done.

Bike
I ride out, huffing and puffing as I do when I'm freezing. I'm slightly disorientated & my vision seems narrow.  I get on the road and just keep thinking 3 things: Pedal harder to get warm; Stay on the road - don't crash; Lord, please send sun to warm me up.  It's very wooded and shady along the lake, but sometimes it opens up at a beach and the warm sun penetrates so nicely into my cold body.  Then back into the cold shade.  We go out-n-back 2 times to the North on Hwy 89.  I see I am 11th.  But then I'm passed by 2 guys coming back.  On my 2nd Northern turn-about, a truck fails to stop at the police control and I hit the breaks at the turn cone just before he would have hit me.  Thank you Lord that I was alert enough even in my disorientated state.

Mile 29: 1:20:00.  I ride by the starting area and am now directed South on 89 to Emerald Bay.  All I remember from the course map is that there was this big hill.  After a while I climb for about a mile and think, "This must be the hill.  Great, we'll be turning soon".  The nice thing is that I'm warmer now, my breathing is back down and everything is good again.  Thank you, Lord.  The bad thing is that this hill was just the first of many.

Mile 38: Emerald Bay.  A stunning course!  We carve down switch-backs with incredible views of the bay and Cascade Lake below.  It's pristine, powerful and elegant.  But I'm focused on going fast, too.  I'm trying to find the "groove" that I felt at Napa HITS Triathlon.  I work the descents.  A guy in front of me is working them better.  I can't believe how fast he gets through the hair-pin corners.

I'm also making sure to fuel.  I'm trying another product that a coach friend of mine said would provide consistent energy and less tooth decay.  It's Vitargo.  It does seem to be steady and isn't bothering my stomach at all.

Mile 41. I realize my only gains on the guy ahead is during climbs.  I keep pushing.  Finally!  The turn-around.  So happy to be heading back.  This section is full of White Aspens.  Beautiful.  Now back around Emerald Bay and Viking's Point.  The nice thing, despite the climbs being tough, is that the guy ahead provides a good distraction to focus on.  I catch him on a couple climbs and we joke with each other.  Then he passes me on the other side and says, "See you on the next climb".

Mile 46. From the earlier terrain I thought I could average 21mph, but now I'm sadly down to 19.  I'm not feeling as powerful as at Napa HITS.  I am at elevation and did ride 18mi yesterday so this may just be all I have.  But I start to get more motivated as we get closer.  I push harder and pass him earlier on the climbs.  Finally I get a gap and keep the pressure on down the backside.  Thinking we're close to finishing I pour it on.  But after a couple miles he gets by again.

Mile 53. Fortunately there's one more little climb and I pass him and then turn into the park.  The gravel at the entrance must have slowed him down because I come into T2 with a good gap.  2:48:55. 3,700 ft of climbing. 19.5mph average. 46.5mph max.

T2
Dismount and change goes well.  I grab 3 gels, sunscreen and my hat.

Run
Out of transition I can immediately tell that my hamstrings don't feel that bad. Thank you Lord!  Just like at Run on the Sly, I remember to pray for the tough parts to come and keeping my hamstrings working if that's His will.  It's single-track, along the lake, in the shaded forest of trees, just like at Run on the Sly.. except it's flat!  But will it get hilly?  I realize I never looked at the run course!  Ok, just have to really focus on the ribbons and signs.

Mile 1: 8:41. I feel tired and it's hard work.  But the Sly run gave me confidence. I think, "The Lord kept me running the same from start to end, so even though I feel a little tired now, it's not going to get worse, I can go 20miles and it won't feel worse than this".  Knowing that really helps.

Mile 2: 8:18. We cross the hwy and head through camping areas, more single-track and then into the fire-roads.

Mile 3: 8:00. It's beautiful and never feels like climbing (thanks to the non-stop hills at Sly).  I'm wondering if I'm going to do 2 laps of the Olympic course or go way into the forest for the 13.1 mi course.  Either possibility seems long and uninviting.  I just look forward to mile 6 where I'll take my first gel.

Mile 4: 8:38. I'm drinking water at each aid station.  We cross over a creek and start heading back. It's more exposed now.  I put sunscreen on my shoulders while I run.  Until now no one has been near me except the Olympic distance athletes running slower.  Suddenly I hear fast approaching footsteps!  Here it goes, someone fast I'm going to have to chase.  "You dropped this and I think you might need it later."  "Oh, thank you!  It's one of my gels.  I really appreciate that. God bless you!"  The Olympic distance girl who just sprinted up to me now quickly settles back to a walk saying, "ok, whew, enough of that".  That was really nice.  I make sure I don't drop it again.

Mile 5: 8:04. A split in the trail.. 70.3 runners to the right.  Great, possibly a different loop to do.  Still no big hills which I'm thankful for.  I'm using my 1st gel as something to look forward to.  I see runners coming back, flying.  Aid station at 5.5.  I take a gel.. chocolate espresso.. should feel that.

Mile 6: 8:04. I hit the turn-around. The volunteer confirms that I'll be coming back here again.  Ok, so it is 2 loops.  I get more motivated now.  And I see my competition behind me.  "Hey Troy!"  It's Dave Tarkington - wow, great to see him running strong after his injury.

Mile 7: 8:55.  Heading out on loop 2.  The run course director bikes by.  I tell him how great the course is.  I'm looking forward to mile 8 for my next gel and start to push it.  But on a little climb I get disappointed seeing my pace.  Then an aid station comes up but I pass it thinking I'm not at 8 yet.  But actually it was 7.8.

Mile 8: 8:48. With my 2nd gel in hand, waiting for an aid station, I start to feel real good.  My stride opens up.  My hamstrings feel good.  I have energy.  Now I feel like I'm flying through the beautiful trails.  Thank you, Lord, this is such a boost!  I can do it.  The miles are ticking off faster now.

Mile 9: 7:55. fastest mile yet!  I eat a gel at 9.3.  I hit the turn-around for the 2nd and last time.  Coming back I see Dave Tarkington again.  Another guy says something like, "You've got it locked in" which is encouraging.

Mile 10: 7:56. I'm still pushing it and feeling optimistic. Tired but wanting to make these last miles my best.  Over the wooden bridge.  There's the last aid station.  I take my last gel… it's my first Peanut Butter flavor… it's thick!  Gasping for air at max effort is not the time you want a mouth full of peanut butter.  Fortunately I get a lot of water and get it down.  Ok back to full effort!

Mile 11: 8:23. It's a great gradual descent through more single-track trail.  I stay focused thinking, "you don't want to fall or sprain an ankle now".  I never look back, just keep pushing.  Yay, we cross the highway, less than a mile to go. 

Mile 12: 8:07. Maybe I'm pushing too hard?  I think of our track workouts… just 1 last fast mile.  But I'm really exhausted.  And a steep short climb.  But then there's the finish!

Finish
A 1/2 mile earlier than expected!  Thank you, Lord, I'm done!  I felt the Lord was with me the entire day.  He answered my prayers for getting warm, helping my hamstrings, and subsiding my knees when they were hurting on the run.  He is good!

 

Name	Race	Time	Age Group	Place	Swim	Bike	Run
TROY SOARES	LC	5:10:17	M45-49	2nd	34:01	2:48:54	1:43:00
DAVE TARKINGTON	LC	5:23:44	M45-49	4th	36:37	2:54:53	1:46:58
KATY ROSANE	LC	6:09:57	W45-49	2nd	40:35	3:11:27	2:10:26

Winters Road Race–Robin

Date/Location:	August 23, 2014 – Winters, CA
Distances:	48mi (24 x 2 loops)
Place:	17th, Cat 4
Teammate:	Charity Marshall

Looking forward to racing today even though I’ve had limited time to train over the last 3 weeks.  I convinced Charity to race today, too…she is in the same boat.  We carpool to Winters…enjoying the farmlands and hot air balloons as we get closer.  We talk about recent rides and Charity tells me how her front tire flatted while descending Mt. Vernon Road.  Scary!

As we head over to registration we see a teen race volunteer back up right over a guy’s bike that was lying on the ground…crunch!  Oh, that is a terrible sound and the cyclist is getting mad!  It’s too hard to watch so we head over to registration.  I hope that guy can still race!

Registration is easy as there are few Women’s 4 riders!  They have changed the race finish.  I check out the hand written map and cannot make any sense of it.  I guess after the first loop I’ll figure it out! 

We then head out for a warm-up.  It’s pretty warm already.  My legs feel pretty good but I have doubts about my fitness.

We pray before the race for safety and a good day.  Then we line up on time but the races are running behind so we have to wait.  I try Charity’s trick of sticking Clif Blocs to my top tube.  I show Charity a video of a 4x 400 meter relay race where a team back in 4th place actually wins the race.  It’s a great example of never giving up!

Okay, time to roll.  The head ref tells us to stay neutral until we get to the main road.  As I start up I notice I’ve already lost a Clif Bloc.  I grab the one remaining and gobble it up quick just in case!

I haven’t ridden in a pack in a long time and I'm definitely being tentative.  Charity is right in the mix and positioning herself well.  Within the first 5 miles, the Men Masters 30+ 1/2/3/4 are passing us.  I hear Lance cheer for Charity and I.  Wow, they are booking!  They must be on lap 2 of 3.  If only I were starting my 2nd and last lap!

Our group of girls is sticking together well.  I’m anticipating a lot of girls will fall back at the big climb!  At mile 10, the grade is building.  I’m at the back of the pack and stuck here.  I should be able to get ahead once the group splinters.  It gets steeper and a big group is still pushing hard and holding their ground!  I push hard to get around only a few girls struggling and stay with the large pack that is trudging up the hill strongly!  I catch Charity and encourage her to keep at it.  At the steepest part of the hill which is also the very end of the hill, I am amazed at the big group of girls still riding strong. 

I’m just barely with them as the descent begins.  I’m pretty wimpy at descending but have improved.  There is a gap forming but I still am close enough to close it…this is exciting!

As the descent starts to straighten out and flatten out I hear a loud pop and realize my front tire has just blown out!  I’m scared but keep composure and try to brake carefully.  I’m heading straight for a CHP officer at the bottom of the hill.  I’m about to yell for him to grab me but I’m able to stop just in time. Phew!  Thank you Lord for keeping me upright!  How ironic that Charity and I were just talking about her flat!

Charity rides by and I tell her to go for it.  I know now that my race plans have changed.  As I change my tube, I think back to that video.  I know that my goal today now is not to give up even when it looks bad.  Chances are I won’t catch anyone in my group, but I’m going to try! 

After 5 min, and a little help from a stranded rider who helped me with my inflator, I’m off.  It’s time-trial time.  15 miles into a 48 mile race…boy this is going to be a long day!  As a triathlete I cannot be too upset because it is still good practice. 

I’m surprised to find that 5 miles down the road, and around a corner, is the finish!  Ah, it’s closer to the end of the hill…good to know!

The next loop is pretty lonely but the Lord provides a few stragglers to watch.  I pass one guy and we chat briefly.  We both agree that this is good practice in perseverance! 

I make it to the hill and still no sign of any girls.  A group of guys starts to pass and I cheer them on…until the group gets larger and rides dangerously close to me…at this point I’m just concentrating on staying upright.

Not too long after, a paramedic and fire truck is passing with their lights on.  Oh dear, not a good sign!  I wonder who is hurt and pray for them.

I feel good climbing.  I’m alone so most likely not climbing as fast as with a group, but still trying to push hard.  On the descent, I’m much more cautious and in prayer.  I make it to the bottom unscathed.  Thank you Jesus!

The Women 1/2/3s pass me with a follow car.  I pick up the pace and try to keep them in my sight.  I cannot use them or the car for a draft so I carefully keep my distance.  This is great motivation and helps those last miles fly by!

In the last  few miles, the pack slows way down and I decide to pass instead of slow down to keep my distance.  It seems funny that I’m flying by these pro women but I’m certain my pass will not last.  Sure enough, they soon start their 1K sprint and pass me back like I'm standing still. 

I put my head down and dig deep on my own.  Got to finish strong!  I briefly look up and see a bunch of cars stopped ahead.  Uh oh, there was a crash in that group of girls.  I slowly weave my way through the crowd of fallen riders and cars.  Bystanders are helping girls off the road and out of a ditch.  Poor girls, looks bad but fortunately not serious!

My finish is anticlimactic…but I'm done!  Thank you Jesus!  I make sure my result is recorded and then ride the long 3 miles back to the car.  Glad to be done!  Good effort today!

Run On the Sly–Robin

Date/Location:	August 17, 2014 – Pollock Pines, CA
Distances:	13.9 Miles
Time:	2:01:34
Place:	1st
Teammates:	50k - Lee McKinley 20 Miler – Rich Alesci, Tim & Austin Twietmeyer, Troy Soares 1/2 Marathon – Gary Carpenter, Manouch Shirvanioun 12K – Leonie Alesci, Megan Sebra

It’s great to be back at this race…and with Troy!  It’s like a date!  Last year was a great race but, later that day, I got sick and it turned into pneumonia.  That was right before IM Tahoe and it sure made things uncertain and hard.  But, Jesus brought me through the pneumonia and the 32 degree air temp at Tahoe…so He’ll help me through today…and through the hamstring soreness and general fatigue. 

Troy takes off an hour ahead of me.  It’s nice to cheer him along with Rich Alesci, Lee McKinley, Austin Twietmeyer and Tim Twietmeyer.  I’m praying that his hamstrings will feel great and that he’ll have the fitness to push it out there.  I hope he also has fun!  We pray before he goes and it puts us both at ease.

I run into my college roomie, Leonie, and Megan Sebra.  They are racing the 12K in preparation for our CIM Relay.  It’s an all girl and all Aggie team…yeah!  I also run into Gary Carpenter, a Tuesday Track veteran, and his friend Manouch. 

It’s time to go!  We line up and always fun and witty Courtney Cardenas counts us down.  It’s go time!  The first 1/2 mile is uphill and I love it!  I feel good and get in a good position.  There are 4 girls ahead of me.

Mile 1 is 9:04.  Feeling good but trying to hold back some. We are on a beautiful fire trail along a water canal.

Mile 2 is 7:58.  I pass one girl and get close to the next gal.  These hills are really helping me!

Mile 3 is 8:03.  I make it to the top and the first aid station.  Some friends are there cheering me on. It’s nice to have the support!  The dirt on the trail up here is really loose.  There are many ruts in the road but they are hard to see when the sun is blaring down.  It’s hard to keep a rhythm on this!

Mile 4 is 9:43.  The girl I was catching up to is pulling away.  I continue to struggle with the footing but still feel pretty good!

Mile 5 is 7:41.  Okay, getting into a good grove.  Heading downhill!

Mile 6 is 7:37.  I am all alone now!  It’s hard to push without some motivation!

Mile 7 is 7:55.  A guy passes me up and now I’ve got a carrot!  We head down to the next aid station.  He stops and I keep going.  I start to head down the super steep and rocky part and he catches back up.  I pull over and almost fall over from the momentum.  He passes and I try to move as fast as I can.  For a mainly street runner, this is a definite weakness!  On another spot I almost trip but recover…thank you Jesus!!

Mile 8 is 9:26.  I finally make it to the lower campgrounds and take a road to the left.  Last year I went right and around the lake.  Now I’m in new territory!  I’m climbing again and catch up to that guy.  Another guy flies by and I try to match his speed but he is strong!

Mile 9 is 10:37.  My hill climbing is not as strong and I know it’s because of my recent lack of miles and hills.  I stay positive and focused on the Lord…and I’m having fun despite suffering!

Mile 10 is 9:44.  I see a volunteer walking down the trail so I know the aid station (the first one I passed) is ahead.  I don’t need anything but it will be nice to have some cheers again and from my friends.

Mile 11 is 8:48.  I’m so looking forward to the turn off back down to the finish!  Where is it?  I’m really tired but just trying to hold on! I’m alone again but I know there are folks coming from behind.  I’m back on the loose dirt…ugh, hard to stay steady!

Mile 12 is 8:56.  Finally, the turn off!  I head down a steep single track.  Just like last year, my IT band attaching to my left knee starts to twinge.  Ouch!  I have to slow down and run with good form.  Funny how it’s the same exact place on the course!

Mile 13 is 8:36.  I’m back on the fire trail.  I hear footsteps behind me and make a quick look back (something I rarely do!).  I can see a runner getting closer and cannot tell if it is a girl or guy.  That’s just the motivation I need!  I pick it up and push hard.  The IT/knee is still giving me reminders so I have to continue to take the time to focus on form.

Finally the finish is near!  I hear Courtney calling out my name.  I smile as my watch hits 7:35 for the last mile.  Thank you Jesus!  Great to be done!  I rest for a few minutes and here comes Troy!  An hour a part we start and 3 minutes apart we finish…Awesome!!

Name	Race	Age Group	Place	Run Time
LEE MCKINLEY	50K	M50-59	1ST	4:25:14
RICH ALESCI	20M	M30-39	3RD	2:53:32
TROY SOARES	20M	M40-49	1ST	3:03:48
TIM TWIETMEYER	20M	M50-59	4TH	3:53:39
AUSTIN TWIETMEYER	20M	M1-29	4TH	3:53:39
ROBIN SOARES	1/2 MARA	W40-49	1ST	2:01:34
GARY CARPENTER	1/2 MARA	M50-59	4TH	2:08:36
MANOUCH SHIRVANIOUN	1/2 MARA	M50-59	5TH	2:08:59
MEGAN SEBRA	12K	W30-39	6TH	1:13:31
LEONIE ALESCI	12K	W30-39	7TH	1:15:01

Run on the Sly, 20mi (Troy)

Date/Location:	August 17, 2014 – Pollock Pines, CA
Distances:	20.4 Miles
Time:	3:03:48
Place:	1st
Teammates:	50k - Lee McKinley 20 Miler – Rich Alesci, Tim & Austin Twietmeyer 1/2 Marathon – Gary Carpenter, Manouch Shirvanioun & Robin Soares 12K – Leonie Alesci, Megan Sebra

Although my first time on this course, the description of it is clear to me thanks to Robin's story of running it last year.  Including the vision of the wildfire smoke that covered these hills last year.  Fortunately there are no fires in the northern Sierra's this time.

Our friend, Courtney Cardenas, is announcing the race and saying some pretty funny comments like usual.  Robin and I pray before hand.  Both of us are concerned for our hamstrings and lack of long-distance run training.

This is a perfect tune-up for Ironman Tahoe.  It's a hilly 20 miles which is almost equivalent to a marathon.  And it's 5 weeks out.  Robin had the same plan last year and it worked, except for the part of getting pneumonia from breathing the smoke while racing hard.

The Lord is already helping me out by providing inspiring running friends!  Lee McKinley, Rich Alesci, Tim and Austin Twietmeyer are all doing it as well.  Lee is doing the 50k option which includes a hard extra 10 miles at the far side of the course.

Gary Carpenter, from track, is also here.  Him and Robin are doing the 1/2 Marathon starting an hour after us.  I line up next to Lee about 6 rows back.  A little intimidated by all the hand-held water bottles and camel-backs.  Our friend Rich is on the front line.

Go!  I start off with an easy pace.  But seems too easy so I move up a little.  I suddenly have a great idea!  Instead of waiting for my hamstrings to start hurting before praying, I pray now, asking the Lord to help them so they won't get painful.  I have faith He will take care of me.

The 1st 1/2 mile is straight up.  Robin is part way up taking pictures.  Soon I'm breathing hard, pushing the pace, while many are conserving.  Maybe I'm making a mistake?  I'll push the hills today because it doesn't hurt my hamstrings and it'll build endurance. Plus I want to make up for going a little slower down hills, which can hurt my hamstrings.  Fortunately the next few miles levels out.  Shady fire-roads next to a canal. 

Mile 1: 9:09. Lee catches up to me.  Each climb he does a fast walk, conserving energy but almost going as fast as me running & grunting.  Others are walking, too.  Lee says, "Tricks of the trade".  I plan to stick with running… the whole course. 

Mile 2: 8:07. On each flat Lee catches up easily and strikes up conversations.  He's truly at ease running long distance.

Mile 3: 8:31.  We climb up to the 1st aid station.  I drink 2 cups.  Lee stops to fill up his bottles. 

Mile 4: 10:06. Lee soon catches me again and then goes ahead to talk to another 50k runner.  I'm breathing pretty hard but feeling strong. 

Mile 5: 8:00. I make a pitstop and then surprisingly catch up to the 2 talkative 50k'ers.

Mile 6: 7:55.   My hamstrings, although slightly tight, aren't bothering me, even pushing the pace downhill.

Mile 7: 7:14. At the next aid station I take 2 cups again while Lee and the other guy stop to fill up and then it's a steep, rocky descent to the lake.  Wow, it's very technical and I'm glad I haven't fallen.  I remember now reading others' race stories about the likelihood of falling on this course and telling Robin to be careful last year.  I better be careful myself.

Mile 8: 8:32. It's a beautiful single-track trail up and down along the lake.  Robin was right, telling me to take as many opportunities as possible to take in the view.  Combined with the soft, pine-needle laden trail, and the cool shaded coverage, it's possibly the perfect running trail.  The temperature is perfect and I find myself noticing it often.  A warm day while running through the damp coolness of the lake-side forest - awesome.

Mile 9: 8:34. I still have to keep my attention on the trail because it makes sudden roller-coaster swooping turns and dips.  Some campers are starting breakfast fires or are along the shore fishing.  My heart rate has been moderate, about 145, despite the sections of really hard breathing.  Up ahead are 2 runners descending fast and walk/jogging the ups.  I keep them in sight.

Mile 10: 7:39.  I'm at 1-1/2 hrs.  I'm hoping to break 3hrs.  Lee catches up to me again (after another break).  Still as relaxed as ever.  He tells me I look good and should do the 50k instead.  No way, I'm pushing it and will have nothing left after 20.

Mile 11: 8:51.  We start having a good conversation when the trail suddenly splits and he heads farther on while I descend down below the dam, cross a stream and climb back up.

Mile 12: 9:11. I pass 1 of the runners ahead.  Then I see 2 more.  I pass them on a real steep section.  I'm finding my strong point is really steep sections.  I'm gasping to get up them but then recovering well.  For a while we run on a flat road which is a really nice break from constant up and down.

Mile 13: 9:43. I know there is a long climb over the ridge once we finish circling the lake.  I'll have 2 Hammer gels in me by then and am focusing on giving it my all.

Mile 14: 9:20. Every time I think we're around the lake and on the big climb out, it just turns out to be another steep undulation in the trail.  There is still a runner ahead in orange that pulls way ahead on the descents.  It's still shady which is nice.  My foot is starting to hurt a little because my shoe is too loose.

Mile 15: 8:45.  I stop to tighten my shoe, but realize my hamstrings are so tight I can't bend down.  I stop again when I find a stump to put my foot on.  Ok, good, now to catch the guy in Orange.  He's running with the leading woman now.  He pulls ahead on a long descent.  I pass the woman on some switch-backs. We encourage each other. 

Mile 16: 10:25. And now the long climb begins!  The guy in orange stops to fill his bottle, as does the woman, but I grab 2 cups and keep going.  I've got a gap!  Many of the 1/2 marathoners are coming down towards me and very encouraging.  They tell me I'm the 5th runner which is exciting.  I believe my gap is increasing and I know I need a large one because on the other side of this hill, the guy in orange is going to be flying at a speed I can't match.

Mile 17: 8:57. It's a long grind but I'm getting there.  I'm focussing on the Lord and how much He has helped me.  I'm running better than expected.  Coming down this section I was dreading the return but now it's going well.  I know I'm nearing the top because I'm back in the 6" deep chalk-dirt.  It makes for a lot of dust.  I can only imagine how hard it was to breathe with the dust plus wildfire smoke last year.

Mile 18: 10:17. There's no one around now.  I hope I'm going the right way.  And then I see 2 volunteers and a sign pointing down.  This is the steep descent Robin struggled down last year.  She was in the lead at the time but her IT band was hurting which made the downhill miserable and allowed the next woman to pull ahead.  My legs are all-around sore.  The jarring drop is anything but relief.  I stay focused so not to fall.  And finally at the bottom.

Mile 19: 8:56. I've never walked yet.  And I haven't looked back.  The climb was a success, but I have a feeling the guy in orange is flying down that hill behind me.  I've got to push this 1/2 mile and then the steep 1/2 mile gravel road to the finish.  I hope I don't have to go head-to-head with him there.  I tell myself, "Just a couple fast laps around the track".  "Ok, just 1 more lap…"

Mile 20: 8:02. After 20mi, I don't see the road yet!  I was really counting on being done at 20.  "Ok, just 1 more lap…"  Finally, there it is!  The sign says, "It REALLY is all downhill from here".  Whoo hoo!  All I have to do is keep from falling.  I descend quickly despite dreading it.  I hear Courtney announcing, "Robin Soares just finished, and here comes her husband, Troy, almost finishing together after starting an hour apart".  I finish in 3:03:56. 20.7mi.  And surprisingly 1st in my age group. 

The race was a real encouragement for Ironman Tahoe because my endurance held up well even with pushing the hills.  The final hills of the marathon will feel just like these mountainous ones today.  With God's help, I'll get through those, too.

Name	Race	Age Group	Place	Run Time
RICH ALESCI	20M	M30-39	3RD	2:53:32
TROY SOARES	20M	M40-49	1ST	3:03:48
TIM TWIETMEYER	20M	M50-59	4TH	3:53:39
AUSTIN TWIETMEYER	20M	M1-29	4TH	3:53:39
ROBIN SOARES	1/2 MARA	W40-49	1ST	2:01:34
GARY CARPENTER	1/2 MARA	M50-59	4TH	2:08:36
MANOUCH SHIRVANIOUN	1/2 MARA	M50-59	5TH	2:08:59
MEGAN SEBRA	12K	W30-39	6TH	1:13:31
LEONIE ALESCI	12K	W30-39	7TH	1:15:01