Surviving the 50K

I finished yesterday's San Gabriel Mountains 50K, barely. The race conditions were ideal: foggy and cool. Hugo's condition was less than ideal: still jet-lagged and suffering from a cold, with no serious running having been done since last month's Catalina Marathon. I felt fine the first dozen miles or so, but then began to realize that my heart-rate was abnormally high, and I began to feel weaker and weaker. At one point, around mile 20, my running buddies suggested I consider dropping out, but I refused (perhaps not the wisest decision I've ever made). As usual, the last eight miles -- which involve a climb from 1700 feet to 5800 feet of elevation -- were hellish. Somehow, however, as I reached the top of Mt. Wilson, I found the strength to pass a couple of guys, and then kick to the finish on the last quarter-mile, which is paved and flat. I promptly collapsed after crossing the finish line, and dry-heaved in the arms of my worried girlfriend.

After some food, drink, and a hastily rigged-up saline IV, I felt much better. I was disappointed not to break my time from last year, but under the circumstances, was pleased to run only four minutes slower than I did in 2003 -- finishing in just under seven hours, and only twenty-five minutes behind my friends.

I'm a bit sore this morning, and have a nice case of poison oak coming along on my shins. No more big races for me for a while. Off to church.

Comments

[Amy]

Wow, that's hardcore. Congrats on the finish and almost killing yourself. Get some rest Hugo.