Happy Kid’s Du #3–Ariel–2019

Date/Location:	2/23/19, Granite Bay
Distance:	1mi R – 3miB – 1mi R
Time:	Ariel: 27:53 PR! (Previous PR 29:58)
Place:	Ariel: 1st, 9 & 10 Year Old Girls

1^st Run

I start running. I’m trying to stay close to Kaila. I’m running up a hill. I’m running faster than I usually run because I want to stay close to her. I staying closer to her more which is surprising because I’m never this close to her. I enter the trail still staying close to her. I run on the trail trying to get closer to her and this time she did get closer. There’s the big puddle from last time and I jump over it I run through mud and sand. Getting a little closer every 30sec to her. I go up and down. I go up a hill with a big mud puddle so I jump over it. Then up a small hill and around the corner.

The Bike

I head out on my bike hoping to catch up to Kiali. I bike up a hill and on to the flat part. I bike faster and finally I pass her. I see her behind me now but I bike faster to get farther away from me. I was so thankful to God because I passed her which I never been able to do. Then I go down a hill and up and down and up. I come to this really big turnaround which is a large turn that goes up and down. I go back down and up and down and up the hills. And back to the big turn. I keep biking and get on the long road. I keep biking and go down the hill and into transition.

2^nd Run

I start running up the hill as the first girl. I start running faster trying to get farther away from Kiali. I’m trying to pass a boy in front of me I finally pass him. I run faster and faster knowing that the finish line is close. There’s the big puddle from earlier and I jump over it. I turn and go up a slight hill and then around the corner still in 1^st girl. I go up a hill with a big mud puddle so I jump over it. A boy’s dad behind me tells his son that I am his rabbit to try to beat so I run faster so he won’t pass me. I can see dad and Anna cheering me on. I run up the hill and around the corner and strait to the finish line in fist place. I got 27 min which is a PR. Thank YOU GOD!!!!!!

Lost Trail Half Marathon–Robin -2019

Date/Location	2/23/19 Grantite Beach, Granite Bay, CA
Distance	Approx 12.7 mi
Time	1:55:04
Place	2nd (4th female o/a)
Teammates	Friends from Tuesday Night Track: Elizabeth Katzura, Stephanie Artis

I’m trying to do my long run on race day.  I’m following Troy’s example from last weekend.  We both have had set-backs in training due to injury so we didn’t get in the usual long runs. Since we both have half marathons two weeks out from our A races, Napa Marathon for Troy and Chanoko 31K for me, we needed to add some miles to get in the needed long run.  I park outside of Granite Beach park and run 4 miles to the start.  I am already feeling tired two miles into my pre-race run.  Praying that the Lord will help sustain me.  I’m actually running on the first third of the race course and am relieved to see it’s pretty dry along here.  Fortunately we’ve had a break in rain this week somewhat so hoping the rest of the trails won’t be too muddy. 

As I arrive at registration, Troy, the girls and Oscar are pulling in.  Ariel is doing her third Happy Kids Duathlon while I’m racing. 

There are some familiar faces here as well.  Elizabeth Katsura from our track workout is here.  She ran the Manda 1/2 Marathon with Troy last weekend.  Double duty!  Stephanie Artis is also here.  I predict that she will lead the pack today.

We pray as a family for Ariel and myself. It’s always special to be in prayer for one another!

We line up on the start.  Suddenly the race director Bill shouts, “go”!  Wow, no warning!  Stephanie pulls out in front with some guys and there are 2 women trailing behind her.  I want to take advantage of the mostly flat sections in the beginning and push it but also want to conserve my energy for the back half of the race.  My goal is to run faster than 9:10 pace and hopefully around 2 hours. 

The first 2 miles go pretty smoothly and I pass one of the women.  I was on this part of the trail earlier so there are no surprises.  Runners are heading back from the turn around and Stephanie is firmly in the lead for the women. 

My average pace is creeping up from 8:00 to 8:31 but there is more climbing on the way back.  It’s getting close to 8:30am which is the start of Ariel’s race.  I’m hoping to see her on the bike!

At Mile 4, we are diverted on a trail that parallels the main park road.  I’ve never run back here.  It’s a pretty area and the trail is narrow.  The trail seems to be moving away from the road which means the chances of seeing Ariel are fading.  She must be halfway through the run right now.

I haven’t seen any other females.  I am starting to take turns leading with some guys.  This trail is mostly dry but there are a few good puddles.  My pace is inching up to about 8:37.  I can hear some cheering and some bicycle wheels turning but cannot see the road.  I pray for Ariel to have a safe and fast ride!

This trail goes a long way!  I can barely see some bike riders.  I’m thinking Ariel is already getting ready to run again.

Finally we get onto a familiar trail.  I'm going back & forth with a guy in blue.  He tells me his wants to stay ahead of his wife. 

i start to notice some of the frontrunners going on a parallel trail in the opposite direction.  I start to wonder if I made a mistake…but then remember this is called the Lost Trail Half and it really seems like I’m lost.  I realize I haven’t been thinking about God or talking to Him.  I thank Him for giving me the energy to maintain this pace.

Soon I’m on the opposite trail getting a look at the runners behind me.  I see some strong girls back there!  There is a teen runner that is walking ahead of me.  He is holding his stomach and doesn’t look good.  I can tell he’s on the verge of tears.  I slow down and ask if he needs some nutrition.  He says no and tells me he’s feeling sick.  I encourage him to hang in there.  I realize later I could have stopped and prayed with him.  A missed opportunity!

At around 8 miles, my pace has slowed to 8:50 pace.   The trails are progressively getting more winding and hilly.  I hope to can just stay under 9:10!  This trail just seems to keep meandering up and down through the trees.  It really feels like I could be lost! They sure nailed the race name!  I am mostly alone except for an occasional glimpse of a runner ahead or of mtn bikers.  The guy in blue has fallen back.

Just after mile 9, I make it to an aid station and familiar territory.  Civiilzation, for a moment…then back to the trails.  I almost go the wrong way.  Funny, I seem to always want to go the wrong way at this spot!

Now I am able to see Lake Folsom and get a wider view of the land.  This part is pretty technical and my pace shows…I’m now hovering around 9:08 pace!

Soon, I hear someone coming up fast behind me.  I look back because it’s a surprise.  It’s a woman!  She flies by me like I’m standing still.  I’m now the fourth woman.  She motivates me to pick it up.  I can see two guys now ahead of me and I make it a goal to try to catch them.

Now the terrain has flattened out some so I can start moving quicker.  I can see a parallel trail with some runners including that girl.  For a moment, I think I miss the turn off to that trail as I find myself meandering again through some trees.  I see some random spectators ahead and know I’m on the right track.

My pace is picking up and I’m maintaining 9:08.  I can see the finish line off in the distance and I’m just passed mile 11.  That probably means the course is going to be a bit shy of 13.1 miles…but the hills and technical challenges probably make it 13.1 equivalent.  I’m pleasantly surprised to see I’ve picked it up even more.  Thank you Lord!

Soon I can hear Troy and the girls cheering in the distance.  So close!  One of those two guys is close but continues to hold me off.

So close now.  Anna is telling me to sprint to the finish.  I feel like I’m picking it up but it probably doesn’t look that way! I dig deep and cross the line.  Thank you Jesus!  It’s so good to be done…but 1 more mile to go for a cool-down!

MandaRUN 1/2 Marathon (Troy)

Date/Location	2/17/19 Auburn to Loomis
Distance	13.1 mi
Time	1:38:14
Place	3rd (9th o/a)
Teammates	Friends from Tuesday Night Track: Elizabeth Katzura, Christine, Holly, Mike, Liz, Claire. Other friends: Dana Haldeman, Eddie Schmidt

This race was postponed from Nov due to the smoke from the NoCal Camp Fire.  Today, Feb 17, I wake up in Auburn to the rare sight of snow falling.  As I drive through the dark with the large glowing flakes coming down, I pray this morning works out well.  To get my “20 miler”, I’m going to run 5mi before, and 3mi after, the 1/2 marathon.  This long run got pushed out due to sickness and injury last month.  But I’m thankful the Lord has healed me and I’ve felt strong lately.  However, my big weakness is the cold.  I’ve tried lots of experiments on how to stay warm in different situations and one thing I’ve learned… stay dry!

I park in Penryn at 6:10am.  It’s a steady rain here, and dark.  I start my 5mi run with all-weather socks, thick tights, jacket, rain jacket, waterproof hat, and my best cold-weather gloves.  The rain-drops pour down through the beam of my headlamp while my cold breath rises up through it.  It’s peaceful on these quiet backroads.  Brooks are flowing high and frogs obviously happy.

I run down Taylor Rd to the Loomis train station to catch the shuttle for the race.  I feel good, even warm in my jackets, but I can feel the wetness on my legs and feet.  I see the busses lining up.  I register and stretch.  I’m glad to  see Elizabeth Katzsura from track. The buses are covered with snow and there are many comments about “this is crazy”.

My main concern is STAY WARM.  On the bus ride up to Auburn I can feel my body cooling, the wetness soaking in, and realize my gloves are wet.  I had another pair notice that 1 glove must have fallen out.  On the bus I see 2 more friends, Eddie Schmidt and Claire Walker.

We all comment on the snowy scene in Auburn. I’m amazing the buses can make it up the snowy roads to Placer High School.

It’s a strange scene at the start.  Our track is under snow and the road covered with thick slush.  Everyone is taking pictures. 

Some wonder what they will wear.  I’m wearing EVERYTHING I’ve got.  My friend, Eddie, is in shorts and telling me he’s going to bag-check his jacket because he doesn’t want it flapping during the race.  I think he’s crazy because I’m already shivering.

The race starts!  Everyone is trying not to slip.  I notice a woman taking the lead and then 5 other guys ahead of me.  We go by the Auburn Courthouse. Our friend, Dana Haldman goes by me.  I think maybe I can catch her as I warm up, but she looks really comfortable at 7:30 pace and isn’t slowing down.  Up Nevada St. which is a steep climb.  I welcome the oportunity to push harder and try to warm up -  my fingers are wet & freezing.  My feet surprisingly are fine.

Mile 1. 7:42. Good, maybe I can stay under 8min pace today.  There are volunteers watching busy intersections, they are bundled up and must be cold but they bubble with cheers and encouragement.  Up Mt Vernon Rd, I push it knowing this is the last chance to get warmth from climbing – the rest is all downhill.  There’s a few guys around I’m going back n forth with.  As we start down, one asks me if I’m good on the descents. Normally I try to take advantage of downhills, but I’m a little tentative today, also because my legs already have miles on them.

Mile 2. 8:23. Sharp turn onto Millertown.  Beautiful snowy fields.  I see Dan & Dawn Tebbs along the bottom of their property with their dogs cheering us on.  Fingers still cold.

Mile 3. 7:11. Suddenly Eddie Schmidt goes flying by!  He does not look like he just did the toughest 50K yesterday in the mud.  I wonder if I’ll ever catch him later, but the speed difference is significant.  A creek flows next to us and vapor rises from the water.  The water must be warmer than the freezing temps.  It’s a beautiful scene.

Mile 4. 7:24. After dropping down the steep section, we continue to Wise Rd… and there’s Robin and the girls!  Yay.  I point to Eddie way ahead and give them high 5’s.  Along Wise I’m feeling some fatigue but push past a couple guys.

Mile 5. 7:34. Nearing Ophir Rd I can see Eddie already heading down.  The skies are blue now, a few white clouds, and my hands are finally warm. Thank you, Lord!  And my legs are holding up, I think I’ll get through this ok.  Pace is good.  I eat a Hammer Gel.  Drink a lot at the aid station.  I can still make out Eddie in the distance as he’s one of the few wearing shorts.

Mile 6. 7:42. I stop at a porta potty.  Now the 2 guys are ahead.  This Ophir Rd is where we did our FCA bike intervals last Friday.  Robin and the girls are at the park-n-ride.  Anna throws a snowball at me (that’s supposed to be encouragement I think).  I guess she has a bucket of snow for this purpose because there isn’t any at this elevation.  It’s beautiful out.  My hands are fine and I throw my gloves to Ariel.

Mile 7. 7:47. Through the Newcastle tunnel.  By the Portuguese Hall which reminds me of my heritage.  I pick up the pace some.  But if I go too fast I start to feel calf or foot pain.

Mile 8. 7:12. I eventually pass both of the guys again and figure I’m in 8th or 9th.  I pass Callison Rd and am now running the part I ran this morning.  I did it without problem this morning.. I can do it again!  I’m thankful that the Lord blessed my plans, alowed me to be warm now, and has given me strength.  Once I get to Penryn, it’s only 3 mi, I can do this!

Mile 9. 7:19. Taylor is a smooth, wide road. Easy running.  My car is parked ahead at Penryn and I see Robin and the girls out ready to cheer for me.  Up a slight climb that feels harder than expected.  I drop off 1 jacket at my car and wrap the other around me.  Anna throws another snowball and misses.  I’m always so glad to see them!

Mile 10. 7:42. Through Penryn, more great volunteers, more water, chocolate Hammer Gel (mmm!), and onto Rippey Rd which is new to me.  It’s a great rural road.  The sun is bright.  My legs are starting to hurt with each step but I’m so close now.

Mile 11. 7:20. We head out of the countryside, back towards Taylor Rd for a moment, and then back into the peaceful rolling lane.  I’m eating Cliff Blocks now.  I see the 5k turn-around and quite a few folks are walking/jogging it.

Mile 12. 7:14. This is it!  Push a little longer.  I’m so sore now, and will have some warm-down miles to do after, but I know I have to push… always have to push in a race.  I’ve heard people cheering for someone behind me so I try to pick it up to keep him from passing me in the last bit.  I don’t look back though.  I focus on the Lord and try to give Him an honest effort I can be proud of.

Mile 13. 7:12.  Yes!  the finish is near.  I was here 3 hrs ago and didn’t know how the day would go.  God is good!  Anna tags me with one last snowball. I finished 9th in 1:38:14. 3rd in my age.  The guy I heard behind me finished 2 secs after.  The overall winner was a woman at 1:28.  Then a man at 1:31, then Dana Haldeman at 1:33, and Eddie at 1:34.  I was really happy with my time. 

After re-connecting with everyone.. I headed on my 3mi run along the course to my car.  It was hard and 10:30 pace was all I could do.  But it was neat cheering for other runners.. I saw Claire, Elizabeth, Mike, and Liz, all Tuesday Night Track runners.  Sometimes I tried to push harder but something would start to hurt so I held back.  I’m so happy to make it to my car after 21.5 mi total and change into other clothes and head to church.. Thank you, Lord!  I didn’t know it would work and I thank God it did.  It helps me feel more confident for Napa Marathon in 2 weeks.

Happy Kid’s Du #2–Ariel–2019

Date/Location:	2/9/19, Granite Bay
Distance:	1mi R – 3miB – 1mi R
Time:	Ariel: 30:10 (PR 29:58)
Place:	Ariel: 2nd, 9 & 10 Year Old Girls

The 1^st Run

10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, GO! I start running straight. I’m trying to get closer to a girl named Kiali. I can see her up ahead of me. She gets smaller and smaller as she gets farther and farther away. I push myself to get closer. I feel like I’m going fast but I’m not getting closer to Kiali. I see the boy that I was trying to pass at the previous race. I start going faster trying to catch him. He’s harder to pass than last time. I go past the bathrooms and go down a hill and then I see Kiali. I am so excited because I’ve never seen her before at this point because she gets so far away from me. I start running faster and faster but she’s getting farther and farther away from me. I try to pass the boy so I can get closer to Kiali but it’s hard. I pass him. I turn and the trail is getting muddy. There is a big mud puddle on the trail so I jump over it. I run past some rocks and now I’m on the straight away but I don’t see Kiali. I run into transition and get my helmet on. I leave transition.

The Bike

I head out on my bike hoping to catch up to Kiali and the other girl in front of me. I see one of the girls ahead. I bike faster and finally I pass her. I still think there are more girls in front of me. I see Kiali ahead of me but she is so, so small became she is so far away. A boy passes me I try to stay with him. I’m not sure if I’m getting closer to Kiali because she is already around the corner. I turn on this big turn then I go up a hill. Then I go down a hill and up and down and up. I come to this really big turnaround which is a large turn that goes up and down. I pass the boy I was behind earlier. I go back down and up and down and up the hills. And back to the big turn. I keep biking and get on the long road. I see Kiali. I bike faster and faster. This time she is not getting farther away she is getting a little closer. I go down the big hill and into transition.

The 2^nd Run

When I get into transition some people tell that I'm the 2^nd girl and the first girl isn't far ahead which I thought was wrong. I start running straight. I can see Kiali up ahead of me. She is so close. I've never been this close to her. I push myself more and more. I go past the bathrooms and go down a hill. I start running faster and faster but I’m getting tired. I turn on the trail an it’s getting muddy again. There is the big mud puddle on the trail so I jump over it again. I run past the rocks and see Mommy. I can still see Kiali. I want to catch her but my legs are tired. I’m on the straightaway but Kiali is getting farther away. I sprint and finish only a minute behind her. Thank you God!

Happy Kid’s Du #1–Ariel–2019

Date/Location:	1/26/19, Granite Bay
Distance:	1mi R – 3miB – 1mi R
Time:	Ariel: 29:58 PR! (Previous 31:53)
Place:	Ariel: 2nd, 9 & 10 Year Old Girls

10, 9, 8, …., 3, 2, 1, GO! I start running up the hill. There are girls in front of me and each time I put a goal on one of them they start getting farther and farther away. I turn on to a trail. I’m trying to pass a boy in front of me before the trail gets smaller. The trail is getting smaller and smaller. I cannot pass him yet. I sprint right pass him. It’s starting getting muddier and muddier. There is a little bridge to get over a mud puddle that is made out of logs and then up the hill. I turn on to a sandy trail. There is a big puddle and the fastest way around it is to jump on the edge of the puddle or you can take to time to go around it. I choose to jump! I keep running. Then I got to a really, really sandy place. It is hard to get through. I go down a hill and then up a hill. I see Mommy and Daddy cheering me on. I’m almost to the finish of the 1st run. I come around the corner and see the transition. I run into transition. I put on my coat and take a sip from my bottle and head out of transition.

Bike

I start biking up the hill. I’m trying to pass people. A boy passes me so I try passing him back. Trying to pass him is helping me pass other kids. I keep chasing him. I see a little boy in front of me so I start trying to pass him. I go up and down finally we get to a steep small hill. I pass him on the hill but he passes me back. I go really fast and then pass him. The other boy is still in front of me. I keep trying to pass him but he’s going really fast. we pass a girl and I think her brother that look my age. Then I sprint hard and pass the boy. I zoom down the hill into transition.

The 2nd Run

I run out of transition and up the hill again. I go up the hill and turn on to a trail. The trail is getting smaller and smaller. The girl and the boy I saw earlier are right behind me. It’s getting muddier and muddier. They pass me. I try to catch up to them but they’re fast. There is the little bridge to get over a mud puddle that is made out of logs and then I go up the hill. I turn on to the sandy trail. There is the big muddy puddle and I jump again. I keep running. I get to the really, really sandy spot which I do not like. I go down the hill and then up the hill. I see Mommy and Daddy again cheering me on. I’m almost to the finish. I go around the corner and there is the finish line. I sprint to the finish line. I got 2nd place.

FCA New Year’s Day Challenge–Robin, 2019

Date/Location:	1/1/19 – 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 – 21:00 (PR 16:48, 2014) Hill Climb #2 – 6:55 (PR 5:52, 2014) Run 1: 1:27:58 (PR 1:16:04, 2011)
Place:	Only 1 woman. Hill Climb #1 Only 1 woman. Hill Climb #2 1st (W40-49) Run
Teammates:	Hill Climb: Dan Darby, Troy Soares 10Mile: Anna Soares, Carolyn Goulding, Elizabeth, Katsura, Jesse Ellis, Manouch Shirvanioun, 10K: 5K: Ariel Soares, Caryn Galeckas, Debbie Booth, Emerson Booth, Leah Booth, Suzanne Hartley , john/

PART 1 – BIKE

This year it is hard to wake up and get excited.  I’ve been discouraged that I haven’t been able to train as I’d like.  Also feeling overwhelmed and behind mananging things at home.  I know that the Lord wants to me to continue to try to stick to my goals and committments to bring HIm glory.  All that I do really should be for Him and not myself.  With that mindset as a goal, I get out the door and leave it all up to Him! 

Troy and I bike to the Overlook and no one is there.  In a way I’m disappointed but trusting that He has a reason…and it just might be to follow through on my committment.  Like the image of a man pushing a rock and going nowhere, I might not be doing anything but getting stronger. 

We do our normal warm-up ride.  Troy rides the “men’s loop” (a few extra miles) which evens things out.  As I’m about to turn on Glenview I see a cyclist waitng.  It’s Dan Darby from the track!  He was also the only rider who showed up last year, too.  So great to have him join us!  As Dan and I head up the road, Troy catches up with us and we all ride together over to Hwy 49 and down to the Confluence.  Dan tells me that he was wavering on whether to come or not but remembered how good he felt last year once he was done with the ride.

CLIMB #1

We line up.  Dan is first, then myself 2.5 min later and then Troy 1.5 min after me.  Ready, go!  Right away, I have difficultly getting my feet locked into my pedals.  Once I get going, there is discomfort throughout my whole body.  I start to complain in my head that this is a bad idea and I question why I’m out here.  I feel the Lord reminding me to just keep trying, to just continue to push through all that. 

As I turn the first big corner, I can see Dan way up the hill already.  I look back and so far no Troy.  I hope to beat him to the entrance of the Mammoth Bar Park.  A few minutes later I look back and see Troy!  Ok, don’t give up.  Having Troy there actually gets me more motivated to push.  Last year I made it up in 21:06.  It would be great if I can keep it under 23 minutes this time.

I’m getting closer to Mammoth Bar and Troy is getting closer to me!  I dig deep and make it!  Yay!  As Troy goes by, I try to stay on his wheel.  The hill is steep here and I cannot hold on.  He pulls away.  I gave my road bike to Anna so all I have to ride is my tri bike.  It’s tough to climb with a tri bike but the flats are amazing with aerobars!  As soon  as the road flattens out, I get into my aerobars.  I actually am able to get a little closer to Troy and keep him from pulling away. 

The road climbs again.  My legs are feeling better.  I am able to push without my legs screaming.  I look at my timer and am surprised.  I actually might get 21 mins or faster!  Wow, Lord, that is a gift!

I haven’t seen Dan at all so he must be having an amazing day, too…so happy for him!

I go around a turn and no longer can see Troy.  I push hard knowing the end is close.  Soon I see a sign for the upcoming stop sign - my finish line.  I see Troy biking back cheering me on and telling me to dig deep. I’m going to break 21 min!  I cross the line at 21 flat…5 sec faster than last year!  I’ll take it!

CLIMB #2

At the bridge, we line up in the order that we finished earlier: Troy, Dan and myself.  I tell them a fun challenge is to count off the 6 signs towards the top of the hill.  Ready, set, go!  We paceline across the bridge.  I’m waiting to start my watch until we cross the bridge because that’s where the climb starts.  At the end of the bridge Troy takes off with Dan right behind.  Halfway up the hill Troy has pulled away and Dan is still ahead. 

I’m almost to the first of the 6 signs.  Dan is getting closer.  I decide to start making a move at the first sign.  At the first sign I start thinking of the Rocky song, Eye of the Tiger.  I imagine my knees punching the air with the beat…something Troy and I made up together on a ride a few months ago.  It helps and I’m gaining ground at every sign.  By the fourth sign I’m able to pass Dan and push to the finish.  My time is at 5 min!  I think it’s a PR but Troy reminds me that the clock starts at the beginning of the bridge, not the end.  Bummer!  It’s a 6:55 about 30 sec slower than last year.  No bother, I’m glad to be done and very pleasantly surprised with my effort!  Thanking the Lord for this nice gift!  Undeserved and so appreciated!

We all bike back to the Overlook Park where we say our goodbyes and head home.  Time to get home and get ready for the Resolution Run and pick up the kids!

PART 2 – RESOLUTION RUN

We get to the Overlook Park, pick up our packets and say hi to lots of folks like Jesse Ellis who has come out from Arizona. Caryn Galeckas and Suzanne Hartley our FCA teammates are here, too!  We also have our track friends the Booth family, Elizabeth Katsura and Carolyn Goulding. 

I’m feeling nervous and fighting the selfish temptation to focus on myself.  In 2019, my goal is to be more joyful and more focused on others as Jesus desires me to be.  Only with Him will that be possible.  I hope to run around last year’s time and pace of 9:18.  Leaving it in His hands!

Troy, Anna and I line up together.  Anna is joining Troy and I in the 10 mile.  After careful consideration we agreed to let her join us.  She and Troy have a plan for her to go around a 10 min pace average.  Troy is going around 8 min pace and I’ll be hopefully around 9 min pace.  Wondering if it will be tough for Anna to run her own pace, or want to stay with Troy or I.  She’s faster than me now for sure at the 10K and under.

Ready, set, go!  Troy and Anna pull ahead at the start.  Soon Anna settles in right next to me.  I tell her it’s ok to get ahead of pace on the downhills because of the coming uphills.  Manouch Shirvanioun comes alongside and we start chatting about getting an off-season kids swim workout going once a week. 

Mile 1. 7:51.  Anna starts to settle back and is behind me.  After running downhill, it flattens out for a bit.  I look back and still see Anna.  I start thinking about whether she has something to eat.  I’ve treated this race so casually that I forgot to think about Anna’s needs.  I look back and ask “do you have some nutrition?” She says yes. Good!  Thank you Lord!  I tell her I love her and continue on. 

Mile 2. 7:38.  My favorite part is coming up, the Cardiac By-Pass Trail.  It’s rocky and a tough climb but for some reason it’s fun…maybe it’s because it’s the just the beginning of the race.  I feel like I’m flying up.

I finish the climb and make it to the flat.  I’m at Mile 3 and at 9:10 pace.  I see Carolyn coming down.  We give each other a high five.  I don’t see Anna but am sure she’s doing well up that hill.

Mile 4. 8:20.  So far I’m staying under 9 min pace!  I still feel good…for now.  I head towards the paved “Dam Road” and am about to merge with the 5K racers who started a few minutes ago.  I see Debbie Booth coming and we join up and chat for a bit on the downhill.  I figure Ariel is somewhere behind.  I hope she’s feeling good!  Down, down, down we go.  I see an Aid Station, yay!  I’m thirsty.  As I get closer I notice there are no cups.  Oops!  I forgot this is a cupless race!  Poor Anna, I didn’t have her carry water.  I hope she’ll be ok.  I’ll have to tell her on the out-n-back to ask the next aid station to pour water in her mouth.  As a mom, I can stress over this but I pray and ask the Lord to help and I feel at peace.

Mile 5. 7:38. after that downhill.  Now it’s up and up for a bit.  I feel great on this climb too and feel like I’m flying.  Thank you Lord, this is a treat!

The 5K racers turn left at the top of the hill and continue to climb up.  I get to go right and enjoy some flat.  I’m catching up to some 10Kers who are also going right.  Soon, I notice the fast 10kers heading back.  I see Enzo, Anna’s CIM relay teammate.  I cheer and give him a high 5K.  Anna’s other teammate Hunter comes by soon and I encourage him to go for Enzo.  He tells me he’s in pain but couldn’t make out what’s wrong. 

Mile 6. 9:17.  I’m almost at the out-n-back section and hope to see Troy.  Soon I see him and smile.  I tell him I forgot about the cupless thing and he did too.  I tell him to tell Anna to get water poured into her mouth.  I tell him good job and head out to the green gate.  Wondering if the turn-around really is all the way to the gate.  I’ll get to see Anna and find out how she’s doing.  I pray that she’ll be feeling good!  I take a few Clif Bloks.

Mile 7. 8:44.  I’m starting to feel like I’m loosing energy.  I hope those Clif Bloks kick in!  I’m grateful that I’ve felt this stong up to this point.  I know I’ll make it back.  I see about 5 girls heading back…one about my age and the others about high school age.

I climb up to the green gate and see the turn-around point.  Phew!  I head back and look for Anna.  I tell the Lord I’m willing to stop my race and help Anna if she’s struggling.  I might be in 1st or 2nd place and am willing to give that up.  I turn a corner and see Anna smiling!  Yay!  She’s feeling good and got the word from Dad about the water idea.  Thank you Lord!  What an answer to prayer!

Mile 8. 8:42.  My energy is back as I start the Robie Point climb.  Again, I feel strong and feel like I’m flying up the hill!  Wow, wow…just amazed at God’s amazing grace!

I’m catching up to the 5K and 10k racers and the trail is getting narrow.  This is going to be challenging to pass!

Mile 9. 9:11.  I’m feeling amazing!  I am saying “on your left please…good job” nicely.  Pretty soon it’s “on your left if possible, please…great job”.  Most folks have no problem but I sense that some are getting annoyed.  I try to stay joyful despite the reaction. 

Almost done!  Finally, I climb the last hill out of the canyon.  Oh man, feeling really tough.  I hear Troy cheering and look up and see Troy and Ariel.  What a nice sight! 

Mile 10. 10:32. I climb up to the parking lot.  I pass a cute little girl and her Dad (which is John from our track workout I found out later) and cheer them on.  I make it to the parking lot and try to pick it up the finish.  I cross the line!  Yay!  I ran 8:43 pace and it felt great!  Thank you Jesus!!

I run back to see Anna in with Troy, Ariel, Caryn and Suzanne.

FCA New Year’s Day Challenge–Troy, 2019

Date/Location:	1/1/19 – 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 – 18:00 (PR 15:17, 2014) Hill Climb #2 – 6:16 (PR 5:20, 2014) Run 1: 1:27:58
Place:	1st Hill Climb #1 1st Hill Climb #2 2nd Run
Teammates:	Hill Climb: Dan Darby, Robin Soares 10Mile: Anna Soares, Carolyn Goulding, Elizabeth Katsura, Jesse Ellis, Manouch Shirvanioun 10K: 5K: Ariel Soares, Caryn Galeckas, Debbie Booth, Emerson Booth, Leah Booth, Suzanne Hartley

Our yearly tradition of bike hill climbs and running on New Years’ Day. It began as a way of starting the year out with some motivating accomplishments.  And it’s always better with friends.  This year, however, no one has said they’re definitely coming, so Robin and I bike to the Overlook Park knowing that it may just be us.  That’s ok, it’ll still be an accomplishment to push ourselves for God’s glory.  Robin prays for our day.  I’m a little nervous about how tough the climbs and trail run will be, but I’m committed to the Lord to have a good attitude.  Good effort, good attitude, and looking to God through it all.  That’s the plan and I’m excited now to get started.

PART 1 – BIKE

I fly down Auburn Folsom, new bike jacket breaking the chilly air, and I’m surprised to see Robin so close behind.. she’s really descending well!  She heads onto Powerhouse Rd and I continue to Newcastle – the regular split for men and women on this ride.  I plan to meet her on Indian Hill, but seeing how strong she’s riding, that’s going to be hard to do.  I try to push the loop, although also not wanting to tire myself out before the real climbs.  On Glenview I’m happy to see Robin up the road, and with someone else, too.  Could it be we have antoher participant?  Sure enough, it’s Dan from the track who joined us last year as well!  We all push up the steep section together (this is the warm-up for the real climbs).  I give a steady push and get to the top breathing pretty hard and take off my jacket as Dan and Robin continue on.  We cruise through quiet downtown Aurburn, checking out the cute stores, and prepare to descend Hwy 49 (I put my jacket back on).  Robin first, then Dan and myself.  Dad doesn’t like descents so takes it pretty cautious and I’m happy to stay back and call out cars that are passing. 

At the bottom we line up according to last year’s times (Dan 24:24, Robin 21:05, Troy 18:24).  Dan seems pretty upbeat about the climb and takes off first.  Robin, always the competitor, starts the chase 2min later.  I use the bathroom quickly and then take off 1-1/2 min later.  I stand for the first section – it always feels so tough!  But after .5 mile I start to get into a better groove.  I can see Robin not far ahead so I think I may have started too early.  Usually we cross 2/3 to the top but it looks like I might catch her 1/2 way.  I keep pushing hard and she’s looking back and pushing just as hard.  She’s really keeping ahead!  I finally catch her after Mammoth Park and keep the pressure on.  it was nice last year when I passed her farther up right before the flat section – she surged and got on my wheel which was a really smart tactic.  But this time, still on the steep part, blocking the wind doesn’t give an advantage and I pull ahead significantly.  As I try to “time-trial” across the flat section.. my legs burning.. I look back and am surprised to see Robin not that far back.  She’s on her tri bike which is a disadvantage climbing but really proving beneficial on the flats and downhills!  The biggest surprise is that I haven’t seen Dan at all!  Last year I passed him early on (he had admitted to enjoying the sights so much he forgot to push hard).  Early on I saw somone towards the top but when I passed them it turned out to be a mtn biker.  I’m coming around the final corners, a glance at my time shows I might be able to beat last year’s!  I stand and sprint to the stop sign, at the same time noticing Dan waiting at the top cheering me on.  Yay!  Done, in 18:00, faster than last year.  Thank you, Lord!  I’m really happy for Dan to hear he did it in 20:42, almost a 4min improvement!  He was so surprised himself that at first he told us his computer must have stopped and the time was wrong.  Robin finished a minute behind me in 21:00, a slight eclipse of last year’s time.

We take a picture and then coast down to the Foresthill Bridge.

Before the Foresthill Bridge, we line up again ready to beat last year’s times (Dan 7:41, Robin 7:09, Troy 7:06).  I lead the paceline followed by Dan then Robin.  We cover the span at about 21-22 mph and then shift gears and start the climb up Raley Hill.  Robin pointed out there are 6 signs towards the top of the hill which you can count off.  This helps pass the grueling time.  I count down 6, 5, 4, 3.. as I pass the signs getting closer to the finish.  After the last one I stand and sprint.  Yes! Done. 6:16, faster than last year.  I catch my breath in time to go back and see Robin finish in 6:55 with Dan 10 secs behind in 7:05.  Everyone improved!  Now we cruise home happy and get ready for the run part!

PART 2 – RUN

The whole family fuels up, stretches, and grabs warm clothes.  It’s perfectly clear and calm and about 50 degrees.  Not bad, just a little chilly.  Wow!  We’re at the Overlook Park early and there is already a line forming.  Soon there are 700 people ready to run!  The race is sold out.  We see a bunch of friends here.  Elizabeth from the track is doing the 10 mi for the first time.  Suzanne & Caryn are here from CEM and we quickly take the opportunity to huddle up with them and pray for the race and the way we race it.  I’m really excited and want to represent the Lord out there today.  Anna is doing the 10mi for the first time and Ariel is trying to break her PR here.

Start. The 200 runner mass moves out, everyone seems excited and happy. Turning onto the path, we see Dan from our morning bike ride, “Hi Dan!”  Heading down the steep Dam Rd., I look back and see Robin and then Anna, all sticking to our plans of about 8min, 9min, and 10min paces.  I talk to a couple runners, tell them about the course.  Looks like 2 runners from the Sierra College women’s XC team.  There’s about 5 women ahead of me.  Up the Dam Connector Rd and then down the Dam Overlook Rd, my favorite path.

Mile 1 7:07.  Good pace. Mostly down.  A boy, about 13, is up ahead with a Camelbak pack.  I pass one of the Sierra College girls and catch up to another woman.  I ask her if she thinks we’ll catch the kid and she confidently says, “No”.  I was impressed last year seeing the boy finish the tough 10 miler.  He’s about Anna’s age.  Maybe she can keep up with him next year after getting the first one under her belt.  The long China Bar Rd downhill.  I’m enjoying it all, especially the other runners that make it possible for all of us to push each other.

Mile 2 6:45. Easy so far, but that will change soon..  We turn left onto the Cardiac Bypass Trail which is seriously rocky.  I focus on form, anticipating each step and staying light on my feet.   I pass a couple more runners and now am about 13th place.  I tell someone how happy we’re going to feel to get to the top.  Indeed it does feel great to get that climb behind us.  On the flat of the Dam Overlook Rd, I pass the 2nd woman.  She’s really breathing hard.

Mile 3 8:19. Pretty good for a bit of climbing, thank you, Lord, for helping me keep a good pace.  I count the runners far ahead going by the Overlook but not sure if I see them all.  I’m looking forward to getting some water but there isn’t an aid station at the top.

Mile 4 7:40. Good pace. Down the connector road I see Lauren from the track and he tells me I’m 11th.  Bobby, a well known Sacramento masters, and the lead woman are not far ahead of me.  I get to the steep Dam Rd descent and do my best to be efficient and use my long legs to my advantage.  The woman is also a good descender.  I make one more push on the next descent and pass her.  At the aid station I see there are no cups.  So that’s why people have Camelbaks!  It’s a cupless race.  They let me chug it and I hold the pitcher carefully to pour into my mouth.  The lead woman and Bobby are ahead of me again but it was important to get water.

Mile 5 6:52.  The descending is over and tough climbing ahead.  I pass the lead woman but she passes me on the steep climb. After the top, I pass her and Bobby and try to maintain 9th place now that it’s fairly flat.  There are beautiful views of the canyon and I’m appreciating how great this course is.

Mile 6 8:51. Around Robie Pt. Great views continue.  I’m hoping to see the lead runners coming back if I can get to the intersection fast enough.  I see 10k runners coming back and then I see 2 men going really fast.  That’s probably them.  The end of the fire-road is the green gate but it seems to take forever.  I look forward to the slight downhill after the turn.

Mile 7 8:06.  Good pace. I make the turn in 9th place still but am surprised to see a man, the lead woman I had passed and another runner close behind me.  No relaxing, I’ve got to push these final 3 miles.  I can do it thanks to the Lord.  I really excited to see my wife, Robin, soon.  She’s really been a big reason I’ve had good races over the years.  She not only reminds me to give each race to God but also brings enthusiasm about training and racing to our whole family.  She loves the sport.  I hope her prayer for today, to feel joy throughout, has been answered.  And there she is!  “God is with you, my love!”  Her big smile answers my question and I know she’s having a good race.  And then I see Anna, right at the intersection to head up to Robie parking lot.  Perfect timing!  “Hi, Dad, I got to see my friends, Enzo and Hunter in the 10k!”  I’m so glad she’s having a good time. Proud of her.

Mile 8 7:54.  I’m tired now.  Robie parking lot is high above. The path is a little slick.  10th place passes me.  I encourage him and don’t lose hope but keep pressing.  The woman also passes near the top.  Over the top I go into a “controlled fall” down the steep trail and am able to pass them both back.  It’s exciting but there’s still 2 miles to go.  The guy stays right on my heals and appears very strong.  Part of me wants to say, “just let him go” but I know God wants me to give my best effort and not give up… the outcome is up to Him.  The single-track trail has a lot of 5k, 10k runners so I call “on your left” a lot.  The guy behind me seems calm and polite as he does the same.  I like this guy.. but I must still try to win.

Mile 9 8:15.  Very good.  The 2 hardest sections coming up.  I do well, but I’m really fatigued.  A lot of passing slower runners and the guy is hanging on.  With a 1/2 mi to go, he goes by.  I tell him good job, without giving any effort up.  But it’s legit, he’s stronger and pulls ahead.  I’m glad I never gave up, he is just faster.  With the finish coming into sight, my friend, Suzanne, in the 10k is ahead and runs with me which gets me going faster which I appreciate.  The other guy is far ahead but I still need to give it all I’ve got.

Mile 10 9:47. After a few steep steps up to the parking lot, I finish, thank you, Lord, for giving me a better race than expected and giving me a happiness throughout!  Now to look for Robin, Anna and Caryn finishing..