tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15927555952479517402024-03-17T23:03:52.688-04:00DETROIT RUNNER....Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.comBlogger1433125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-35957083092254527152019-03-24T14:55:00.000-04:002019-03-24T14:55:02.838-04:00Rock CF Half MarathonYeah, it's been awhile since I've posted, I know. I am still running but only 3 days a week. I'm filling the rest of my time with biking and rowing. It's been really good for me as the cross training has made me stronger. I'm not as fast as I once was but I've kept my fitness overall.<br />
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Today I ran a half marathon. It's funny, I thought this race was my 50th half marathon. As it turns out, I'm a complete idiot and I missed writing down a race that I did last year that was ACTUALLY my 50th half marathon so this was number 51.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz0s48ZzgdlMogPlWOdc7gx6yuGn55CBRP-CGDCLxawvqXLXmvwTUMg4ZmVPEkxYEKTbUaDacQYDdJYMcWy5KKEhyphenhyphenjo6_mfodVvQFmqzlAaTJTr9ONd7FsVjRoOURAHtpSX4vXpJ4nwFX2/s1600/55536480_10211664874172449_5587929074036113408_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz0s48ZzgdlMogPlWOdc7gx6yuGn55CBRP-CGDCLxawvqXLXmvwTUMg4ZmVPEkxYEKTbUaDacQYDdJYMcWy5KKEhyphenhyphenjo6_mfodVvQFmqzlAaTJTr9ONd7FsVjRoOURAHtpSX4vXpJ4nwFX2/s640/55536480_10211664874172449_5587929074036113408_n.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very happy with sub 2 hour</td></tr>
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The race went well overall. My only goal was to come in under 2 hours to keep my streak of having all my road half marathons be under that time. I squeaked by with 1:58. Given I'm running less and I have not been running this fast in training, I'm happy with the results. I suspect I'll be a little sore tomorrow so bonus rest day.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgfUd6vhVyiHiTkV_C0226EVpSZMwE-cIzb5bL0WCASR1Oujr4ZnYbRUXDzUphJalIfllaNBYYPqNmXFKPwHZj-qGSHK0l-Da2UO5rYjrfXge9Q4UWaHQdfF7Y-r_GjXvarsEyZRTiotQ/s1600/DSC_0205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1060" data-original-width="1600" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgfUd6vhVyiHiTkV_C0226EVpSZMwE-cIzb5bL0WCASR1Oujr4ZnYbRUXDzUphJalIfllaNBYYPqNmXFKPwHZj-qGSHK0l-Da2UO5rYjrfXge9Q4UWaHQdfF7Y-r_GjXvarsEyZRTiotQ/s640/DSC_0205.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The medal was very nice</td></tr>
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Have a great day and.....Keep Running!!!!!<br />
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<br />Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-67734504598751117102018-07-03T18:15:00.001-04:002018-07-03T18:15:57.387-04:00Amazfit Bip GPS Watch review<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_RFxMF_ertAy64SNDUPg85PTaJWplWM_fICFDumlAxibilPaqD90fYGSYAefl9Zj6MxNjbIw6A0j6MyPkKcibfyCb43yjXE4qSihIgpkhjL8u8cyV2yF8k8OnxQbatfLZQqQQGiHH_sp_/s1600/box.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="837" data-original-width="912" height="586" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_RFxMF_ertAy64SNDUPg85PTaJWplWM_fICFDumlAxibilPaqD90fYGSYAefl9Zj6MxNjbIw6A0j6MyPkKcibfyCb43yjXE4qSihIgpkhjL8u8cyV2yF8k8OnxQbatfLZQqQQGiHH_sp_/s640/box.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amazfit Bip</td></tr>
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I've been wearing the <a href="https://us.amazfit.com/shop" target="_blank">Amazfit Bip GPS</a> watch for the past three weeks. I was a little apprehensive about testing this watch as I love my Garmin but not everyone can afford a Garmin, especially as fast as they update them, so I figured why not try this out. Retail on the watch is $99.99.<br />
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The Amazfit Bip is a tracking device that tracks your steps as well as all your activities. The packaging looks very similar to a well known competing company. Very nice presentation. As you can see below, the watch comes with a little note and that's about it. I will say that fits in line with all other GPS watches out there. Nobody gives any paper directions anymore. Fortunately for this watch, one is not really needed since it's very simple to use.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwjPbsWgNFKpl1EzUzkFM1JPvHDKxwl_z3KczOBz9hg0nNu3sWDHVi-G7vW40f-KJYJyUr7WRyUcS8VF-yTqn1QnYGpQEqr511oXSYX7IjzODrhWv70nM0meVqGIRx4Z5bXgonRLG4dFPU/s1600/welcome.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="702" data-original-width="748" height="598" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwjPbsWgNFKpl1EzUzkFM1JPvHDKxwl_z3KczOBz9hg0nNu3sWDHVi-G7vW40f-KJYJyUr7WRyUcS8VF-yTqn1QnYGpQEqr511oXSYX7IjzODrhWv70nM0meVqGIRx4Z5bXgonRLG4dFPU/s640/welcome.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcom</td></tr>
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Upon getting the box open, you get a nice view of the watch itself. Looks very similar to an Apple Watch. In fact, I think that most, if they didn't look close enough, would never know it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9NNjMgjdoETwKJWAkmuYrdlPjFSsIjjmpWMw_ow2FhIsrHDXtU7iW-R6BBZoHkzEkK2qGQaoAEh_3n8P6GDgYNy1C590dcMZHOwS6K5j9_PDJqPAsmHXBtG-Nxv8zRo5JfKKQbdERep7m/s1600/openbox.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="832" data-original-width="985" height="540" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9NNjMgjdoETwKJWAkmuYrdlPjFSsIjjmpWMw_ow2FhIsrHDXtU7iW-R6BBZoHkzEkK2qGQaoAEh_3n8P6GDgYNy1C590dcMZHOwS6K5j9_PDJqPAsmHXBtG-Nxv8zRo5JfKKQbdERep7m/s640/openbox.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Box presentation</td></tr>
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The watch also includes a charging cable to charge the watch.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGuH1zCYwowmOvDHZ1yKYzUegZ0ST56ZKKRGMalgYuKIEw5JoE3afy5QFjbfiEkjIRRk5esSSU6bsX9JnWFVu_7HO8lXfIiC0LoFFGDRWMgM7nARzS8v9Fio8WwcyD3iGcSgsYljTdi5_/s1600/all+stuff.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="960" height="552" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGuH1zCYwowmOvDHZ1yKYzUegZ0ST56ZKKRGMalgYuKIEw5JoE3afy5QFjbfiEkjIRRk5esSSU6bsX9JnWFVu_7HO8lXfIiC0LoFFGDRWMgM7nARzS8v9Fio8WwcyD3iGcSgsYljTdi5_/s640/all+stuff.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What you get</td></tr>
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I plugged mine in right away and let it charge for a few hours until it was ready to go. One thing I can say about this watch is that no competitor can even come close to the battery life. While I charged it a few times while testing it. I probably could have made it with one single charge in three weeks. The battery is amazing and I love not having to worry about being low as I do with my Garmin.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn3iEbdIsFpUZt4abPHdxvx0u2hZ4CcD5DO6rUpE9sATaUX_wCMadNJz-1oVkEQiVtW8w9kSe7JRXdy7dZU94Jc6h9KLU3Kt38gas3IKQnMv4HQqV2AFdsC3ElJULR37LewJOWJAA9J2V1/s1600/watch+charging.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="661" data-original-width="1013" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn3iEbdIsFpUZt4abPHdxvx0u2hZ4CcD5DO6rUpE9sATaUX_wCMadNJz-1oVkEQiVtW8w9kSe7JRXdy7dZU94Jc6h9KLU3Kt38gas3IKQnMv4HQqV2AFdsC3ElJULR37LewJOWJAA9J2V1/s640/watch+charging.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charging</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNywzQh8-u6gyXeJ5aJ4NQW7Ougel9X34NsCyX5E-CrZHuCUwPWLOd1xzViO3FDEcuk7SkDuyvT8DcG-8hLe97CY360RN2P5EyHJ7jHvgNrp38dR_g8xZkINUAfUCFXCLq-F-1JEcmMFhu/s1600/watchjustopened.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="836" data-original-width="406" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNywzQh8-u6gyXeJ5aJ4NQW7Ougel9X34NsCyX5E-CrZHuCUwPWLOd1xzViO3FDEcuk7SkDuyvT8DcG-8hLe97CY360RN2P5EyHJ7jHvgNrp38dR_g8xZkINUAfUCFXCLq-F-1JEcmMFhu/s640/watchjustopened.jpeg" width="310" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The watch</td></tr>
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As you can see, the watch is quite thin, it's very light and super comfortable to wear. One drawback is that they don't recommend you shower with it, although I do wash it off after my workout and rain does not effect it at all.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVHa7Yq_-GHUeikFa-Cn8aCcrJA7lLCewu9KhM-4Q-fSio9b7kHATR1exCrf6nfw6gtGY6AijIfQQN6Qboz4hEE0wRmXt25K6hI0rRDaR-7qfR24ZcpwnEHcV9Iv3KCJxXJpIB3bHStNSx/s1600/watch+side.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="824" data-original-width="1055" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVHa7Yq_-GHUeikFa-Cn8aCcrJA7lLCewu9KhM-4Q-fSio9b7kHATR1exCrf6nfw6gtGY6AijIfQQN6Qboz4hEE0wRmXt25K6hI0rRDaR-7qfR24ZcpwnEHcV9Iv3KCJxXJpIB3bHStNSx/s640/watch+side.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side view</td></tr>
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The watch has several pages that you can scroll through. All you do is press the watch button on the right side and that allows you to use the touch screen. This is a great feature as there is no worry about starting something you didn't want to start. <br />
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Status gives you a summary of your day including steps, heartrate, miles moved, calories used, and sessions in which you have not moved in over an hour.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Racy6VHcy2W79L2qAQ7vLSD4FmqaGmnBAfKtf7igo5fjExK-cdG1bmRNMCxM5uFzFFpwIHYCeg-YWQI0tApQJaKLUOXKk7oeg4JlcfoC9s9uJU3sNwFSQGVpU3CQyFdQ7jWuNdqKhcHx/s1600/Status.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="441" data-original-width="670" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Racy6VHcy2W79L2qAQ7vLSD4FmqaGmnBAfKtf7igo5fjExK-cdG1bmRNMCxM5uFzFFpwIHYCeg-YWQI0tApQJaKLUOXKk7oeg4JlcfoC9s9uJU3sNwFSQGVpU3CQyFdQ7jWuNdqKhcHx/s640/Status.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Status page</td></tr>
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While it's a useful page, I downloaded a custom watch face as shown below that basically gave you a summary of those items. Note the watch is set up for 24hr time so you need to download a watch face if you want to be on a 12hr time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkFThbpNymaLqvns3hMZVAMUsAYdBZXpdFm495UyxdLF3x5YqV4Gli9XFmPxXB6v59oGIyVAp0DM7YuMhkW-L9291kzxa63_RCcNKiAQ2gckIHzmOyWLkFYoG_P1AonoKJIHWCvtJOLDPj/s1600/main+watch.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="444" data-original-width="674" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkFThbpNymaLqvns3hMZVAMUsAYdBZXpdFm495UyxdLF3x5YqV4Gli9XFmPxXB6v59oGIyVAp0DM7YuMhkW-L9291kzxa63_RCcNKiAQ2gckIHzmOyWLkFYoG_P1AonoKJIHWCvtJOLDPj/s640/main+watch.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watch face</td></tr>
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Next comes activity.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjhdn_GqO_NfRDh7BSkz9x2puwc-EC_iZFnBKL2Sv25haCGbM0yVv2tN_68nc25ipkna6kBokKxRdOOULXnDjNgUhFpMxVWZpDDhdeY0FImrtzFB2a4-Ncbinp3KV1nshLZtMKSJ9qd78t/s1600/Activity.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="675" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjhdn_GqO_NfRDh7BSkz9x2puwc-EC_iZFnBKL2Sv25haCGbM0yVv2tN_68nc25ipkna6kBokKxRdOOULXnDjNgUhFpMxVWZpDDhdeY0FImrtzFB2a4-Ncbinp3KV1nshLZtMKSJ9qd78t/s640/Activity.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Activity</td></tr>
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You can set it for Outdoor running, Treadmill, Cycling, Walking, Activity History, and Activity Settings. I'll go through a few for you.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2N3LeuBcRooF3dBJh0erSlTWexJUICJYbU1y0w42n6ULJHqiAnjLZKcK83UAwEUUvLMLJ9uQ770GDoLr3OiIFCKSbX38mltfhtdOynDoYRwd-facvu56ETUejBaRWAO3eSWgV9ehsggW/s1600/Outdoorrunning.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="444" data-original-width="678" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2N3LeuBcRooF3dBJh0erSlTWexJUICJYbU1y0w42n6ULJHqiAnjLZKcK83UAwEUUvLMLJ9uQ770GDoLr3OiIFCKSbX38mltfhtdOynDoYRwd-facvu56ETUejBaRWAO3eSWgV9ehsggW/s640/Outdoorrunning.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outdoor Running</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
First of all, you need to complete an activity. When you are ready to start, you can press cycling and it will start to find the GPS. Yes, it's much slower than the big names but not really much longer (maybe 30 seconds longer). Once it's finds your GPS position, you can press start and it gives you a countdown. Not sure I really like that feature as I want it to start tracking as soon as I push start but there's no way to change it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOciuhJjVj2DR0ZwK1Y9uxK6zhCAJn-vSIkCp3mwcu2eYheccj1r8zM-ARCxdDF86Zp52cItd_nojlfQZqgCs_AMgf7MM8CYvcl8QJhDrY2gNdgNaB4qkODrZdedzUNnekUv0SeHpCxVU1/s1600/Cycling.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="448" data-original-width="674" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOciuhJjVj2DR0ZwK1Y9uxK6zhCAJn-vSIkCp3mwcu2eYheccj1r8zM-ARCxdDF86Zp52cItd_nojlfQZqgCs_AMgf7MM8CYvcl8QJhDrY2gNdgNaB4qkODrZdedzUNnekUv0SeHpCxVU1/s640/Cycling.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cycling</td></tr>
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When you are done with your run or ride, you can hard press the side button and it will ask you if you want to continue or save it. It's really that simple. You can also set the watch to hard press the button and it will start the activity you use the most.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQjo-tP_Sj7cb3gBnf_K_1deiOQXMn5Lb1WPFXI2bRo1gOETldT46ppeCyfU27iOpsV5FHQEh6pyB0ZkyugLtlvwFoEP7FZX6NbyEIXy-PTDVv3HrRiCz-KqoLmFgYAUiySoE1QYNO7JPN/s1600/Activityhistory.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="446" data-original-width="675" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQjo-tP_Sj7cb3gBnf_K_1deiOQXMn5Lb1WPFXI2bRo1gOETldT46ppeCyfU27iOpsV5FHQEh6pyB0ZkyugLtlvwFoEP7FZX6NbyEIXy-PTDVv3HrRiCz-KqoLmFgYAUiySoE1QYNO7JPN/s640/Activityhistory.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Activity History</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once you are done saving it, you can look at the History on the watch or you can sync it to the app on your phone. I'll get to the app later.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPJ1upVQZc6bN_3ADJv4X9PIEMqOIzj-sb0yLRdpXxSV7SriTh_pgVN4YZccpEwaiQuFZs6Vdz_D5S444EDT9nBmtI51k7jXGfgpMMmOVwc_KsYWiYcAn7CGiUCYEqwZKOQROflfM9WruP/s1600/Activity+History3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="448" data-original-width="676" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPJ1upVQZc6bN_3ADJv4X9PIEMqOIzj-sb0yLRdpXxSV7SriTh_pgVN4YZccpEwaiQuFZs6Vdz_D5S444EDT9nBmtI51k7jXGfgpMMmOVwc_KsYWiYcAn7CGiUCYEqwZKOQROflfM9WruP/s640/Activity+History3.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">History page 1</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The watch has several screens under history so you can see all the details of your activity. In this case, the ride I did. I really like the Climbed distance. That's one I have not seen on other watches.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg44lUYvOI9wRciQJefI7DY8mjcl7__ItjN4wZAJnoV0HHg3KNVYgvvOb70BsRDeOjn4lZVXyU65jrA9NObA5LwRE4TCIiXJ7CWjTiU5a-aiOPsWtGe3qW8TFt_COi2ld4zQZiQOBTu1dkI/s1600/Activity+history4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="446" data-original-width="669" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg44lUYvOI9wRciQJefI7DY8mjcl7__ItjN4wZAJnoV0HHg3KNVYgvvOb70BsRDeOjn4lZVXyU65jrA9NObA5LwRE4TCIiXJ7CWjTiU5a-aiOPsWtGe3qW8TFt_COi2ld4zQZiQOBTu1dkI/s640/Activity+history4.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">History page 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The watch will keep numerous activities on the watch. There were 13 activities on my watch now.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKW84oASENtCyU72udYp3mLNLBPJVmxaEEvRjKLkaOMduuo6n-lHzOUG3SPWBMCM9ONIwZ_VIxCSL5LWw6Jv7COQrt-C-kviPISfKziVMt5xeOFXPk9tTaqDYOnb852nfus0O7hC43oUFB/s1600/Activity+history+2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="446" data-original-width="677" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKW84oASENtCyU72udYp3mLNLBPJVmxaEEvRjKLkaOMduuo6n-lHzOUG3SPWBMCM9ONIwZ_VIxCSL5LWw6Jv7COQrt-C-kviPISfKziVMt5xeOFXPk9tTaqDYOnb852nfus0O7hC43oUFB/s640/Activity+history+2.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">History page 3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You can also see the route you did on the watch which is a cool feature.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJXaiwS9t0bw90vjrnVZLaDrCdg62xz5qyt1m4Pu4ioR31fQxjPe1ZpkgtixyHAJvFGCXesygDqhTSWooWaBzf_ymW0txqN18nqyWyeRzOmVe7aRCP0Eo7EZCJsR7oKmTygailaNr5nrec/s1600/Activity+History+3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="673" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJXaiwS9t0bw90vjrnVZLaDrCdg62xz5qyt1m4Pu4ioR31fQxjPe1ZpkgtixyHAJvFGCXesygDqhTSWooWaBzf_ymW0txqN18nqyWyeRzOmVe7aRCP0Eo7EZCJsR7oKmTygailaNr5nrec/s640/Activity+History+3.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">History page 4</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Also, it shows you the uphill and downhill elevation. All the stats you need are readily available on the watch. This works the same whether it's a run, bike, etc.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwmdphMTmV5yiugKZWjooGuTCz1PB4_39kq3cWzJqmL1D04SIlDiL41IZ3SduAsmXs4eReh3KCR4j5eO4eqeXGQd4Ad31gONZg2r2b9ZZkLaphHipfKlfkPY7G52RpMQlFts93rt9gsupd/s1600/Activity+history+5.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="447" data-original-width="670" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwmdphMTmV5yiugKZWjooGuTCz1PB4_39kq3cWzJqmL1D04SIlDiL41IZ3SduAsmXs4eReh3KCR4j5eO4eqeXGQd4Ad31gONZg2r2b9ZZkLaphHipfKlfkPY7G52RpMQlFts93rt9gsupd/s640/Activity+history+5.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">History page 5</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Next up is some of the other features on the watch. First up is the weather application.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifm6lmz1zR41vL8zLSDARZkyyqrWcd-AePzmNfCVEsbf-HqruB56PoUMyoedmh9-FwnQwQNQ6gvdSO-pkngefDnYn_1AdAgv8D1dLG0pDpkppWsOioWTVT5FcDuSGKf6Q31I8sTcFb9atm/s1600/weather1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="446" data-original-width="673" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifm6lmz1zR41vL8zLSDARZkyyqrWcd-AePzmNfCVEsbf-HqruB56PoUMyoedmh9-FwnQwQNQ6gvdSO-pkngefDnYn_1AdAgv8D1dLG0pDpkppWsOioWTVT5FcDuSGKf6Q31I8sTcFb9atm/s640/weather1.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Weather</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It gives you a nice summary of a couple days. As you can see, it's been quite hot here. The app syncs to where you are automatically and works well.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnHkYTHqrXty5nIObYUWC_om7diYA3KKqyh6-lbqgF7tKr-dFsG7_mq-GGiGFkX-GLtz0ztxQ5chrp3vBwTJq2Fb68DL2heb7XvfU7GCEpb3eHcjgrf9CdsXL5i-JpHiqrJ4KwW-LSegJs/s1600/Weather2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="673" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnHkYTHqrXty5nIObYUWC_om7diYA3KKqyh6-lbqgF7tKr-dFsG7_mq-GGiGFkX-GLtz0ztxQ5chrp3vBwTJq2Fb68DL2heb7XvfU7GCEpb3eHcjgrf9CdsXL5i-JpHiqrJ4KwW-LSegJs/s640/Weather2.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Weather page 1</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The watch has an Alarm. I know many complain about other watches not being able to wake you up. This one vibrates quite strongly to wake you up. I never slept through it.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitDVcHvUjx1BqzeBs0E0whgNaaWpEwmIEgkFCQR9J9uVMdihZjQeGrEwxJzYkxLsnw0Pk-Wbzw6BWiA5717aiK3aTrcAKHcNB-AAsJgPJ5c3HZ3vNseDTzwoioRHJOa-rVNGNuc4h6_jO_/s1600/Alarm.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="448" data-original-width="677" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitDVcHvUjx1BqzeBs0E0whgNaaWpEwmIEgkFCQR9J9uVMdihZjQeGrEwxJzYkxLsnw0Pk-Wbzw6BWiA5717aiK3aTrcAKHcNB-AAsJgPJ5c3HZ3vNseDTzwoioRHJOa-rVNGNuc4h6_jO_/s640/Alarm.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alarm</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The watch also has a timer as well as a stopwatch should you need one. Didn't really use it but then I never use a timer or stopwatch for anything.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYRbgNe2bHx3CkHuhY5Y4Nco9HcmfIjRl9HQL5tsUma3z2CxQdSwAKPTfSlflQqQPBmi-orO1KaVWnrcDcL0GrcLm6JkW79vLXm9ubOs2d4sbGsrEUoNC_X_MzprNrgQrLGi3ugLJieylL/s1600/Timer.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="446" data-original-width="675" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYRbgNe2bHx3CkHuhY5Y4Nco9HcmfIjRl9HQL5tsUma3z2CxQdSwAKPTfSlflQqQPBmi-orO1KaVWnrcDcL0GrcLm6JkW79vLXm9ubOs2d4sbGsrEUoNC_X_MzprNrgQrLGi3ugLJieylL/s640/Timer.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Timer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The watch comes with a Compass as well. That could prove useful if you are in an area, such as when you trail run, and you don't know the area well. Again, not really a feature I use but handy to have on your watch.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUP3_VAPRhMPcBhRipUjmY0DLW9Yp2-MnNOZHIhsD-4sxSeabW8L_Rki0mYAkxT344iP6n9zpPxL2GeDk9NeUZjTQ3JOjOXh5wBrZ_1iX0T1WXmd9NXlw5VkHNOQbcepKnQTsw_eb0zB-m/s1600/Compass.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="447" data-original-width="677" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUP3_VAPRhMPcBhRipUjmY0DLW9Yp2-MnNOZHIhsD-4sxSeabW8L_Rki0mYAkxT344iP6n9zpPxL2GeDk9NeUZjTQ3JOjOXh5wBrZ_1iX0T1WXmd9NXlw5VkHNOQbcepKnQTsw_eb0zB-m/s640/Compass.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Compass</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Of course, there are Settings on the watch. Here you can change watch faces, change the long press button, Adjust the brightness, Find your phone(very handy actually), do a Factory reset, and Turn it off. I never turned it off the whole time I used it as it was either charging or on my wrist.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil5S0o3G_DKfmddh7x8R57uzQNxqQwXn7h9i2wacS5vtDXsUNH7gwtTEO5ahHWZ5DGCPSykEfdN0NG6c6kY7nSFOGAUTaKLgPE8qenHvO10nUKF6Wswh5-HA4hRSLw9LXTj4aaVJoMEdYW/s1600/Settings.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="447" data-original-width="676" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil5S0o3G_DKfmddh7x8R57uzQNxqQwXn7h9i2wacS5vtDXsUNH7gwtTEO5ahHWZ5DGCPSykEfdN0NG6c6kY7nSFOGAUTaKLgPE8qenHvO10nUKF6Wswh5-HA4hRSLw9LXTj4aaVJoMEdYW/s640/Settings.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Settings</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You also have the ability to set up Alipay, although good luck finding anything that has this. I assume this is more for overseas rather than in the US.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVnrdNr6-c7lU6CabtEUroprzBVH34HhDeFgaxEgfIj7aO6-m9meWJDln59qQJr3MkfD-vGynfGq8QdLfhCxmF31CWnEpv-u5-pEJksxdxs4Ac7-Sf-gVLDjL34GpW2gfGUMvSu1DrCyed/s1600/Alipay.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="448" data-original-width="675" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVnrdNr6-c7lU6CabtEUroprzBVH34HhDeFgaxEgfIj7aO6-m9meWJDln59qQJr3MkfD-vGynfGq8QdLfhCxmF31CWnEpv-u5-pEJksxdxs4Ac7-Sf-gVLDjL34GpW2gfGUMvSu1DrCyed/s640/Alipay.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alipay</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Another great feature that all watches should have is notifications. I like how they have this set up much better than Garmin. I can detail exactly the kind of notifications I want on the watch. For example, I can put just my Facebook notices if I want. You can't do that with Garmin. You need to pick social media and it picks everything you have which can drive you crazy. On this watch, I just set it up to get texts and missed calls. I love having this in the office and the range from your phone is great. I was able to see missed called in another part of my building without my phone next to me.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLcHXvmQde9ysK3kkz17hO314j8srXCL7THaCurxqv4THdvOiCk706aATDzW6-bipcG5hFLEl_sj7DRec_LIFag0_VEbBtXMFeHdobWzLCF4I2VeH5_LQSrA3MQulbKks017WJK5Gb74kk/s1600/notifications.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="678" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLcHXvmQde9ysK3kkz17hO314j8srXCL7THaCurxqv4THdvOiCk706aATDzW6-bipcG5hFLEl_sj7DRec_LIFag0_VEbBtXMFeHdobWzLCF4I2VeH5_LQSrA3MQulbKks017WJK5Gb74kk/s640/notifications.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notifications - blacked out for privacy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As far as the app goes, it's got much of the same information many of the watches out there give you. My biggest issue with it is that it won't sync with Strava - you need an upgraded watch by Amazfit for that but the app is good enough if you just want to track your runs and not be social. While I have not tested their other watches, they too, look pretty awesome at a reasonable price.<br />
<br />
You can see your steps as shown below. You can also see your sleep. I did notice that sleep tracking was not that accurate. I had several days it said I only slept four hours which I know was not true. I do think it got a little better after using it longer but still was off quite a bit. It's not really a function I use anyway, even on my Garmin.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicnJAtNZUzwrtERKcMWgkDOj7tikZf4Z8WJe91_xJEBctn1cD8qr6OTguLpKVI2bJn-WVNm4OPAz2X359dc3qtFMWmVqxuwEFZKk-r6fPPNXH14qfQw4B_cQh7XRPqSDm6Cr60Hn4RfFIR/s1600/IMG_1062.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicnJAtNZUzwrtERKcMWgkDOj7tikZf4Z8WJe91_xJEBctn1cD8qr6OTguLpKVI2bJn-WVNm4OPAz2X359dc3qtFMWmVqxuwEFZKk-r6fPPNXH14qfQw4B_cQh7XRPqSDm6Cr60Hn4RfFIR/s640/IMG_1062.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It keeps a nice log of your activities. You can also see all of them, the last 30 days or the last week. You can see below that I ran on Tuesday and Thursday and also did a bike ride on Saturday. I'll get into the details of each activity shortly.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyWqs6G4BzkINtqmn6TCllYSXp7G9lCaWiJ1YVqf4z3nNc7di6u3h5Nt7JNyzjeyHK7NY2aFO1WeEOoRu9dFQq0K9xTth7uYxR-lPExfZbLKsgH_yTALAgShYmoxEZ9FmrwdMNZEMhXxv7/s1600/IMG_1063.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyWqs6G4BzkINtqmn6TCllYSXp7G9lCaWiJ1YVqf4z3nNc7di6u3h5Nt7JNyzjeyHK7NY2aFO1WeEOoRu9dFQq0K9xTth7uYxR-lPExfZbLKsgH_yTALAgShYmoxEZ9FmrwdMNZEMhXxv7/s640/IMG_1063.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My week</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You can also get more details on the sleep activity.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioXlMR27nglHDYIBpLl6AYBdcd4yMqbXA1iI32hpQqjAkKm8X3DJGhqM87DiOVLZ7STVGhmmCv92VvQt3BGMvj-x3PfLnrBPwlQ7bqOQtn30dRUezPSpOBMaYtS_YfpM0H-a6zAP5PV4tr/s1600/IMG_1064.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioXlMR27nglHDYIBpLl6AYBdcd4yMqbXA1iI32hpQqjAkKm8X3DJGhqM87DiOVLZ7STVGhmmCv92VvQt3BGMvj-x3PfLnrBPwlQ7bqOQtn30dRUezPSpOBMaYtS_YfpM0H-a6zAP5PV4tr/s640/IMG_1064.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My sleep</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You can keep track of your weight as shown below. It's funny this says I'm underweight when all other scales tell me I'm overweight by about 15 points. I'm hoping to get back to my goal weight.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmaN3-5tyqmi1GHDloi2pXoLsMQvF74TyoVMei92rFWFhJmZD7M579ediHSVcF-VF9Ona2oGIBlYt-8zJYScnr_x-T1Vv2GT_VmZHkoNxO1aBZPdYRPRMtm8Cq1Cyqp0hyPvMAB2ldiWY3/s1600/IMG_1069.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmaN3-5tyqmi1GHDloi2pXoLsMQvF74TyoVMei92rFWFhJmZD7M579ediHSVcF-VF9Ona2oGIBlYt-8zJYScnr_x-T1Vv2GT_VmZHkoNxO1aBZPdYRPRMtm8Cq1Cyqp0hyPvMAB2ldiWY3/s640/IMG_1069.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My weight</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The watch also tracks your daily activity as you meet your goals. It even gives you your streak record - 5 days for me (I had it set at 8,000 steps/day)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4elqVFrss__EvRe67e-k9-c_HzLgGcxc4ct49bt-QK0ltv5LzTdVkWfwpAtDzWGi1KODnFD8zvgV8J5uu3CHfAs0wufdHYFwP7dKYj5doYDowJ9NgOl3KglXascDKx-aJQqMg8V2ELOwb/s1600/IMG_1070.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4elqVFrss__EvRe67e-k9-c_HzLgGcxc4ct49bt-QK0ltv5LzTdVkWfwpAtDzWGi1KODnFD8zvgV8J5uu3CHfAs0wufdHYFwP7dKYj5doYDowJ9NgOl3KglXascDKx-aJQqMg8V2ELOwb/s640/IMG_1070.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Streak times</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As shown below, there was one error I received when syncing and could not get the data into the app. Not sure what happened but it was the only time it happened.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO5PlcaPksT3AcSV2ZjcTEPd-88TeOk7S6sPBYqgl1XunDurG2sRS1OG0zf-xX8Xn2k-7O5jXemkW_E5Mf4_UTw6l8cLqFnYrzdv37chZ_RxUuho8UnWl9e8bsbCS6YHqJLCx72r_n9hvD/s1600/IMG_1075.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO5PlcaPksT3AcSV2ZjcTEPd-88TeOk7S6sPBYqgl1XunDurG2sRS1OG0zf-xX8Xn2k-7O5jXemkW_E5Mf4_UTw6l8cLqFnYrzdv37chZ_RxUuho8UnWl9e8bsbCS6YHqJLCx72r_n9hvD/s640/IMG_1075.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All activities and error</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After you ride, you can go into your phone and see all your stats. Lots of information here regarding your ride. Once again, I really like the climbing statistic.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3vsiQhUhwfwPahlLKrG37XUuYA1EDc1Pr71tjyujDofzSVVfXn-7UW2wUqzPMQ5UAIcuY8N8HQqLGG3BUhPqe3gN-Env1OOdz3vpuB8AmQtulizGUROumH1HOjSgvkInwuUi3jrue-K3/s1600/IMG_1066.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3vsiQhUhwfwPahlLKrG37XUuYA1EDc1Pr71tjyujDofzSVVfXn-7UW2wUqzPMQ5UAIcuY8N8HQqLGG3BUhPqe3gN-Env1OOdz3vpuB8AmQtulizGUROumH1HOjSgvkInwuUi3jrue-K3/s640/IMG_1066.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cycling data</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As you change pages, you can see the speed for each mile as well as your fastest and slowest speed.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9YrkmWZem8EX5Oy9MfyLiZqiae_HZjMTfQ5lqlP3DgMCgDPWdqTN0nwPPx84v0mDciwomTNQEZzZRI1fE3iU8kkRlJB_f-0D_BdIJCe-Jj0ejvG_m_hJopRZDgbhg18QLyX8CMId6vFp/s1600/IMG_1067.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9YrkmWZem8EX5Oy9MfyLiZqiae_HZjMTfQ5lqlP3DgMCgDPWdqTN0nwPPx84v0mDciwomTNQEZzZRI1fE3iU8kkRlJB_f-0D_BdIJCe-Jj0ejvG_m_hJopRZDgbhg18QLyX8CMId6vFp/s640/IMG_1067.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Speed data</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You can also see your speed and heartrate on a charts as seen below.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ8ftouM-U8Zh9xKgb8xxMWsNXCueRtRtuMwW0Tqoxo3m4uQGcBsUFSRhHnelzfYXLnY5TcyI_4qEGSwcb87k77gC8hERuFo3FOLkygKUT9dDlUHMncgOuHYvBP8hgCEcTUW2Md-0eB_bo/s1600/IMG_1068.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ8ftouM-U8Zh9xKgb8xxMWsNXCueRtRtuMwW0Tqoxo3m4uQGcBsUFSRhHnelzfYXLnY5TcyI_4qEGSwcb87k77gC8hERuFo3FOLkygKUT9dDlUHMncgOuHYvBP8hgCEcTUW2Md-0eB_bo/s640/IMG_1068.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Speed/heartrate data</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It also gives you a great picture of your route with paces changing colors.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEuzLXHYVmmHozfcgBuTd-KRfiUSZjNmMfNbr8UOFpNnkJdd_4xlzAytG0VVpPLtNAbR0are2PSykmBI6Vu2e1O_BkYLGO3h6w9xE3-KbVxt8O5nbGpkbl5f9DVbtpUG4Y2x_0LzCzZfip/s1600/IMG_1065.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEuzLXHYVmmHozfcgBuTd-KRfiUSZjNmMfNbr8UOFpNnkJdd_4xlzAytG0VVpPLtNAbR0are2PSykmBI6Vu2e1O_BkYLGO3h6w9xE3-KbVxt8O5nbGpkbl5f9DVbtpUG4Y2x_0LzCzZfip/s640/IMG_1065.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map from Ride</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The app also tracks running really well too. Total time, pace, etc.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0hVgg34Qp2uAonn1Z7QB-O8bBJ17hRwSaUIfGXPQBjgCg9YlE66b-au-_PFHrB_7YGei3GCq_cACZDUpUDDiHaxaZ-6Hi-qlhAtDQISsd9CfzckUPNGoOF35MvZqecXEdxSNkEaejo4gv/s1600/IMG_1078.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0hVgg34Qp2uAonn1Z7QB-O8bBJ17hRwSaUIfGXPQBjgCg9YlE66b-au-_PFHrB_7YGei3GCq_cACZDUpUDDiHaxaZ-6Hi-qlhAtDQISsd9CfzckUPNGoOF35MvZqecXEdxSNkEaejo4gv/s640/IMG_1078.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Run data</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You can also see detailed splits.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibcYWBTfuBKdbCReVdTnlGzoFyEPVMEhgTIluaYFW1KDyCekVdOpzGnQuGcpF-fVu1-8_CoerA3Jsacpe-ggDRsVKNjRDllrgic6y6YE7JmBVOo32UXRElVX3r4gTU-1BE4KK-SEmV6QV6/s1600/IMG_1079.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibcYWBTfuBKdbCReVdTnlGzoFyEPVMEhgTIluaYFW1KDyCekVdOpzGnQuGcpF-fVu1-8_CoerA3Jsacpe-ggDRsVKNjRDllrgic6y6YE7JmBVOo32UXRElVX3r4gTU-1BE4KK-SEmV6QV6/s640/IMG_1079.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pace data</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And again it shows a pace charge and heartrate chart.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXRCATJZoEeYCuV6WRLSwwixhPjABtjwau4k0_bjdfUNgVe_Osa2sZkz_okz2qR6WszOt3tYa4pJ112hVmdoEQOYcKSleH1Fh-2rd77gWDzKVDWalj1yBJ4RTaxS64pXezOyYmBAFu0xOe/s1600/IMG_1080.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXRCATJZoEeYCuV6WRLSwwixhPjABtjwau4k0_bjdfUNgVe_Osa2sZkz_okz2qR6WszOt3tYa4pJ112hVmdoEQOYcKSleH1Fh-2rd77gWDzKVDWalj1yBJ4RTaxS64pXezOyYmBAFu0xOe/s640/IMG_1080.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pace/heartrate data</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As well as a map. As you can see below, the map is kind of fragmented below. I'm not really sure why it did this, however, it did it for at least 3 of the 15+ times I used it.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiw8mPqf1wkkHOpoadhn725Go3HY8BkGE1xE-L_zPgyubFS2cVH_Eleuj-wS4O0EAS2VabxXkAB_EM_zR1NZr33MymbpIKgYq-hf14rQyci58QdIRoCCG85Ei9p4bg53E2rdQGpfr90RgB/s1600/IMG_1076.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiw8mPqf1wkkHOpoadhn725Go3HY8BkGE1xE-L_zPgyubFS2cVH_Eleuj-wS4O0EAS2VabxXkAB_EM_zR1NZr33MymbpIKgYq-hf14rQyci58QdIRoCCG85Ei9p4bg53E2rdQGpfr90RgB/s640/IMG_1076.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map error</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You can see below, this is what it should actually look like (although it was on a different run in the same area). The error did not effect accuracy though which, by the way, is excellent. It took a few activities in the area but after that, my Garmin and Bip were pretty much spot on for distance.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmAvIZdzLi4OaFI51HAZoBpUj8oJTcFD68nTl2d3GMt0LTtRBTgwnUK-j-1jTOJv9l969tCuedDrfiuZeHfFUAJfXxFtin9rqDPRkkRwh5VqogEj5ZszkzdTTxIVsKFZX3n-jYcVAdGLc/s1600/IMG_1077.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmAvIZdzLi4OaFI51HAZoBpUj8oJTcFD68nTl2d3GMt0LTtRBTgwnUK-j-1jTOJv9l969tCuedDrfiuZeHfFUAJfXxFtin9rqDPRkkRwh5VqogEj5ZszkzdTTxIVsKFZX3n-jYcVAdGLc/s640/IMG_1077.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Correct map</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The app does a great job at also tracking your steps so you can see those for the day as well as the distance I've run/walked and calories burned. How do you like that stat on the gas saved too? 4.85 pt of gas. Ha, nice! That's a new stat I've not seen.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrOWRx8wnDC6lC_9Ad3bDWwJ2FhYq0LtonZ3rWrzF7AoN91w6LSn82ewZCd96YsR0GaVQeQYWQhHLfVG7Goa45S1BfxIyWVnT3U4a8thcKaTn1gUIVcyJ7lAGEh-AswFbLFhydgsJNWXjD/s1600/IMG_1072.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrOWRx8wnDC6lC_9Ad3bDWwJ2FhYq0LtonZ3rWrzF7AoN91w6LSn82ewZCd96YsR0GaVQeQYWQhHLfVG7Goa45S1BfxIyWVnT3U4a8thcKaTn1gUIVcyJ7lAGEh-AswFbLFhydgsJNWXjD/s640/IMG_1072.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My steps</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The watch also breaks down your day in details. Probably too detailed actually. I'm not sure how I would use the below information (other than to know that I'm active)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9M0_uvpmmconuOLANwSurHvc1yfub5YmVkFsmtAwcw9Ua-MM0dRyi_Zy8gVCMoWFpNCMcHPNWjOCxJ1fDkvuj8jVxDFXOtNna4DEAh0aDbZDSpCq_phsbLxad993SajwWmSAQ3LAYVlXk/s1600/IMG_1073.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9M0_uvpmmconuOLANwSurHvc1yfub5YmVkFsmtAwcw9Ua-MM0dRyi_Zy8gVCMoWFpNCMcHPNWjOCxJ1fDkvuj8jVxDFXOtNna4DEAh0aDbZDSpCq_phsbLxad993SajwWmSAQ3LAYVlXk/s640/IMG_1073.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Details of day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's funny that some of my running shows up as fast walking. What can I say, I'm slow while running on the trails, but again, it's quite accurate.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFpZNZLcU5FQN5ydZ3dZYo0AkRehR-IY_DEqUSME5FYjlG2kvhsCkqGIlPlzukwLp6KUjyHPMT0ihuVChoNMDwJGmUuqFIebXS5FuW8paJBkKDVtUQT7FQ1zQkYB9im5MwNlYAf9KNRpHT/s1600/IMG_1074.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFpZNZLcU5FQN5ydZ3dZYo0AkRehR-IY_DEqUSME5FYjlG2kvhsCkqGIlPlzukwLp6KUjyHPMT0ihuVChoNMDwJGmUuqFIebXS5FuW8paJBkKDVtUQT7FQ1zQkYB9im5MwNlYAf9KNRpHT/s640/IMG_1074.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More details of day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Overall, for the money, this is one of the best tracking and GPS watches I've ever used. There's several things that I loved about the watch:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>It's light and comfortable (you don't even notice it's on your wrist) It's much more comfortable than my Garmin HR and much smaller too.</li>
<li>It's surprisingly accurate. I was within 0.05 of most activities compared to my Garmin.</li>
<li>It's inexpensive. For the price, you can't beat this watch with all the features.</li>
<li>It comes with a good app with all the data you would want.</li>
<li>The battery is unbelievable. I can get a week out of my Garmin but I'm sure I could have gotten 3-4 weeks from the Bip without charging. No GPS watch I know can do that especially considering I'm using the GPS on average 5 days a week.</li>
<li>Notifications are nice and the watch and app remain connected. It was very reliable.</li>
</ul>
<div>
The only real drawback for me was not being able to sync to Strava (although Amazfit does offer ones that do sync with Strava). If it had this function, I'd probably drop Garmin and go with this full time. This is certainly a GPS watch considering if you are looking for basic GPS and tracking capabilities with a few smartwatch features thrown in for good measure. In my opinion, there's not a better GPS watch out there at this price level. It's worth looking into if you need a new tracking device.</div>
<br />
<br />
Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: I received an Amazfit Bip in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own and I was not required to give a particular opinion.</span>Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-26850165987794354112018-05-29T21:31:00.000-04:002018-05-29T21:31:27.506-04:00Grand Prix 5000 race review<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpEU_PGnF-WkrYEjyRtuSdiBd2Q92BE7oi5wvlYW7RbW_b3KZI5EhEhOYl2WBzwedsVgMvOn_nmg5nxuBnHv7NqJWTzfRhdjjLn_Gb7_YCkyBwTQsOejRS-eSOnvgDGq2D_pkzXp3h5NWm/s1600/DSC_0020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1060" data-original-width="1600" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpEU_PGnF-WkrYEjyRtuSdiBd2Q92BE7oi5wvlYW7RbW_b3KZI5EhEhOYl2WBzwedsVgMvOn_nmg5nxuBnHv7NqJWTzfRhdjjLn_Gb7_YCkyBwTQsOejRS-eSOnvgDGq2D_pkzXp3h5NWm/s640/DSC_0020.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grand Prix 5000 (no race shirt for logo so I used the bib)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Short Version</u></b><br />
Finished in 27:21 (official time); no new PR<br />
Overall Place: 82/356<br />
Men 40-49: 22/51<br />
Men Overall: 64/167<br />
Master: 36/105<br />
<br />
Timed race #126<br />
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It's been about 10 months since my last race!!!!! Holy cow I miss racing. For those of you that didn't know, I was injured (hurt my back). I started running back in December again but I didn't really feel like pushing myself in races so this is why it took so long to get back.<br />
<br />
Anyway, overall I had a great time at the Grand Prix 5000 put on by RunDetroit. The race was well organized, as I would expect from any race they put on. The weather was warm but at least it was sunny. The course was very unique - running on the Detroit Grand Prix race track. The theme was fun and the amenities were unique. Overall, a great race that I recommend people try out.<br />
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<b><u>Long Version</u></b><br />
<b><u>Registration/Packet Pickup/Start Area</u></b><br />
Registration was online and very simple. Five minutes and I was ready to go. As with most races, the earlier you register, the better the price. I registered in February so it was $35 plus registration fee. Well worth it!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCvsb4qYQqrbOLV576dpaIBXMK-sQ_BtkCSwYrjWXaFYlKYoxKMGTSVpzHiIcazar2nBXvpQN76Svf9a9jL0KkORndejZygcoJVxfAfm7FeLsz05Nl5iQpH156X9tSPa79vzYcWv4VcDKd/s1600/IMG_0755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCvsb4qYQqrbOLV576dpaIBXMK-sQ_BtkCSwYrjWXaFYlKYoxKMGTSVpzHiIcazar2nBXvpQN76Svf9a9jL0KkORndejZygcoJVxfAfm7FeLsz05Nl5iQpH156X9tSPa79vzYcWv4VcDKd/s640/IMG_0755.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alia registering runners who didn't pick up their packet early</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Port-o-potties were spread around the area, not just the start but that was because they were setting up for the race which is the first weekend in June. Parking was about 1/2 mile from the start. The race had a shuttle to take runners if you wanted to get a ride but I decided to walk there and back which was a nice warm up and cool down.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXh2_JHOaQk0fVnQVZ871-NaBDw2x1h0tII7APzw4aMRZOQ-SunBNGKxTND9ekhUaw_RxMV6I4JSf4sWj5iy0GKKVeNHWwwH9shq9WTo73AXnWe6sbiDKsNCfQ0zyjMkyPZ6TNK3-JDlBu/s1600/IMG_0756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXh2_JHOaQk0fVnQVZ871-NaBDw2x1h0tII7APzw4aMRZOQ-SunBNGKxTND9ekhUaw_RxMV6I4JSf4sWj5iy0GKKVeNHWwwH9shq9WTo73AXnWe6sbiDKsNCfQ0zyjMkyPZ6TNK3-JDlBu/s640/IMG_0756.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plenty of port-o-potties</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was fun to walk/run on the course. You don't get an opportunity to do this so it was very unique. I've actually never been to the actual Detroit Grand Prix but it would be fun to see the cars driving on it after running this race. The race had discount codes for tickets too if you chose to also go to the race.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJjoEppvlG3GAiW0QpNMlhBng8bXS06ya9Fqaal2HR6fzEsDdyXSeth8zKyngPy_6yi9IqtLjYGlkrlzOk8WaP061BFrJKCU3hA-VD1VbPn2xXQjJUoKXDUjp-6tWslBy2AbnAYZE11Iz/s1600/IMG_0757.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJjoEppvlG3GAiW0QpNMlhBng8bXS06ya9Fqaal2HR6fzEsDdyXSeth8zKyngPy_6yi9IqtLjYGlkrlzOk8WaP061BFrJKCU3hA-VD1VbPn2xXQjJUoKXDUjp-6tWslBy2AbnAYZE11Iz/s640/IMG_0757.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the course on my walk to the start</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If you have been to Belle Isle before, it was quite different with all the race course and stands set up.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk0O89TCDm-gJNOuEGMWDXcDdiQHDGdT2d9d3eg2H7F8Xl8oU59_z4r1yqsYPez6uZ6pj-c8gJFw0YVuY06aFHdD6WXIbF9LVd8pKBbzOEahyphenhyphensKjtqKfCGhFCwaHwoXx0b8dc5L6K41sbF/s1600/IMG_0759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk0O89TCDm-gJNOuEGMWDXcDdiQHDGdT2d9d3eg2H7F8Xl8oU59_z4r1yqsYPez6uZ6pj-c8gJFw0YVuY06aFHdD6WXIbF9LVd8pKBbzOEahyphenhyphensKjtqKfCGhFCwaHwoXx0b8dc5L6K41sbF/s640/IMG_0759.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the red bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We were right at the checkered flag start/finish. Very cool to be right there!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrX5dLLuDuoXJnXAyMcTkJcmKu6ndWJCXOhAC6YX-k1bHP3NHV9Rg0wRq6nnt2esVbiHRAyz7r4CFEPpiZnUQDqb_GmHeICIzQr8CFc7v2OJmDG8e9xPK5WzZrU3rLwpXQBYNdA7KUvyb/s1600/IMG_0762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrX5dLLuDuoXJnXAyMcTkJcmKu6ndWJCXOhAC6YX-k1bHP3NHV9Rg0wRq6nnt2esVbiHRAyz7r4CFEPpiZnUQDqb_GmHeICIzQr8CFc7v2OJmDG8e9xPK5WzZrU3rLwpXQBYNdA7KUvyb/s640/IMG_0762.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">start line</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was already very hot that morning since it was going to be in the high 90's. Greg Everal was working hard getting things set up.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAwvlzxdlE0xeCvnHJ4n1VeEAJ5cHoodNOqa7Vif7HKb7M1CO4ZnuKkYkEBNqB_OHA2OJWNtTVqOSlo3VbnO1b1tV8EboU-AxF5gSc53vGZBhmTv5FIa5J7oWEEM6RnUNn5NrQ7G48uZ2d/s1600/IMG_0763.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAwvlzxdlE0xeCvnHJ4n1VeEAJ5cHoodNOqa7Vif7HKb7M1CO4ZnuKkYkEBNqB_OHA2OJWNtTVqOSlo3VbnO1b1tV8EboU-AxF5gSc53vGZBhmTv5FIa5J7oWEEM6RnUNn5NrQ7G48uZ2d/s640/IMG_0763.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greg setting up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
They had a pace car there too. This car took us out on the course and the runners followed it along the course to the finish. So fun and I really love the Corvette!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib2W48o3M3mtLncEYX2fVteOtsTtLTdYCwuPvvOzSApgD3Q_AcJ61NahbZUey-dw7qYM9b3B71jrIVeJCn6U0dI9sP5roLR0QeiR38gfHuLNhQuCqa1MIiGcH1URkYVIJgPrpLMxnHIh2E/s1600/IMG_0765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib2W48o3M3mtLncEYX2fVteOtsTtLTdYCwuPvvOzSApgD3Q_AcJ61NahbZUey-dw7qYM9b3B71jrIVeJCn6U0dI9sP5roLR0QeiR38gfHuLNhQuCqa1MIiGcH1URkYVIJgPrpLMxnHIh2E/s640/IMG_0765.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pace car (used in the 5k too!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Race results could be seen immediately following the race from a computer.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhElU9p9weRoOdry3Sq8S83Lw_5BVtOxKflQB8_FeABxACkt2pBpCVuorVEpvPaMdF-3Jqy8NHVEpAw-5Gl-v66loOx2dVpY5hBRHMsRMuXiQr0F93HF6R8A4cyEQavpf_iDccWnzM-wWIA/s1600/IMG_0766.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhElU9p9weRoOdry3Sq8S83Lw_5BVtOxKflQB8_FeABxACkt2pBpCVuorVEpvPaMdF-3Jqy8NHVEpAw-5Gl-v66loOx2dVpY5hBRHMsRMuXiQr0F93HF6R8A4cyEQavpf_iDccWnzM-wWIA/s640/IMG_0766.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race results</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Registration tables were set up with food tables. Bathrooms write at the start. Given this is a smaller race, no lines!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6MofcCgzZq4piiWvBbsWO-YMHdAbWoCXfBmpNn9SmRwtJOEoEUz3ifd4bnaDEzpwnEUPavZVwvdqDxlITNJzEHHua6EUE4lzT0A6jDe-Ix7Fi3QTIUrWHkPVXLTfjKMixbdUnCmgMywG/s1600/IMG_0768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6MofcCgzZq4piiWvBbsWO-YMHdAbWoCXfBmpNn9SmRwtJOEoEUz3ifd4bnaDEzpwnEUPavZVwvdqDxlITNJzEHHua6EUE4lzT0A6jDe-Ix7Fi3QTIUrWHkPVXLTfjKMixbdUnCmgMywG/s640/IMG_0768.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Packet pickup</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
They even had a race car you could get a picture with. So awesome! I'm surprise the car was not roped off. You could get right up to it.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaUFUhEhCQvnTJf-XZAZoGhWfga8rm6gZn0JgYzdZ4wNOwgQHGfGqfR7mXtA01vnMyYvIDY8g1gM-qovA6TtStlkOQ4cug-ZEItEsiKl8NENOWk4dtL8e9kbJceB0vsMU2ICPWXzwBtFeg/s1600/IMG_0771.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaUFUhEhCQvnTJf-XZAZoGhWfga8rm6gZn0JgYzdZ4wNOwgQHGfGqfR7mXtA01vnMyYvIDY8g1gM-qovA6TtStlkOQ4cug-ZEItEsiKl8NENOWk4dtL8e9kbJceB0vsMU2ICPWXzwBtFeg/s640/IMG_0771.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race car!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Before the 5k, they also put on a kids race where the kids got capes and sunglasses too. The kids (and parents) seemed to love it!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4Cf-p1cmiNojaRtowOfeawqd3WHd7OOnkuAXBuU3TfMRTed71xfG1UsHv1LustcMLyktOeecWpXAf0oYtaC_yg0nj7W1afnH64au5Ksq73lmRngygohzuBUiMAZaJ8eUx4QCHg_l15iH/s1600/IMG_0774.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4Cf-p1cmiNojaRtowOfeawqd3WHd7OOnkuAXBuU3TfMRTed71xfG1UsHv1LustcMLyktOeecWpXAf0oYtaC_yg0nj7W1afnH64au5Ksq73lmRngygohzuBUiMAZaJ8eUx4QCHg_l15iH/s640/IMG_0774.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kids race before the 5k</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Soon it was our turn to take to the course.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsbEJTIomZUl72_vB8kMHTVbZyk88_CeZJJZ7dKybIjLlJcazlOmQWuAVmoFwwrVcCsfwXV8nPuYHyEGAX26hxYjKhKUjwN684uKoAanXdm4NR8Vy6Nqfa1qlji8mC4cQ8F9-DjFHhIQKs/s1600/IMG_0777.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsbEJTIomZUl72_vB8kMHTVbZyk88_CeZJJZ7dKybIjLlJcazlOmQWuAVmoFwwrVcCsfwXV8nPuYHyEGAX26hxYjKhKUjwN684uKoAanXdm4NR8Vy6Nqfa1qlji8mC4cQ8F9-DjFHhIQKs/s640/IMG_0777.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">People head of me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUdmvwl8Jpm2KJ3-cPKoLEe_a7eQWD0_k2kNv3Giljopy6gIjnhPk2KsiugFxykQpmzLeK-j3JhTl_rJzeNzEBjWCgoxqGYKhOr2fshsAKh26ZfaLUCX4rISoNGghrdPuXAPV0xOZQ_Vnd/s1600/IMG_0779.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1544" data-original-width="1160" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUdmvwl8Jpm2KJ3-cPKoLEe_a7eQWD0_k2kNv3Giljopy6gIjnhPk2KsiugFxykQpmzLeK-j3JhTl_rJzeNzEBjWCgoxqGYKhOr2fshsAKh26ZfaLUCX4rISoNGghrdPuXAPV0xOZQ_Vnd/s640/IMG_0779.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">People behind me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Course</u></b><br />
The course is pancake flat. You can see the elevation grayed out below. You can't get a much flatter course. The course was an out and back so you needed to remain on the right side so you wouldn't run into faster runners. My only plan was to beat 30 minutes. Not a huge goal but then I have not been running fast at all so I'll take these results. Also, note 3.11 on my Garmin. Can't get better than that distance for a 3.10 race. Perfection!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyYG9BpiWnt2Kd-7-ZOdpY4Jpj6HUtbDJRfRK99m4yHwUGbPnqwp4UdiEIRlcwauUoCdUUM-tgZpLDVp3Mmva8QV_jxJKwLCKTmgvIaZQV5Pjzpilgqzs2UaqpWFk_u2gdKjmFB8s-n6TV/s1600/map.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="803" data-original-width="1048" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyYG9BpiWnt2Kd-7-ZOdpY4Jpj6HUtbDJRfRK99m4yHwUGbPnqwp4UdiEIRlcwauUoCdUUM-tgZpLDVp3Mmva8QV_jxJKwLCKTmgvIaZQV5Pjzpilgqzs2UaqpWFk_u2gdKjmFB8s-n6TV/s640/map.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map and Pace</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Everal Race Management has a great new website too. It had race results as seen below, your free race pictures (which literally came within hours after the race) and finisher certificates. Really nice website with all the important information on one page and easy to download anything for your information to keep.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWHP-lIoueVXifIb52XpDkSrAXNT3zOQfcaUjKNuHsD6aTsAYNYv7VcsTG_78Fdq7CxOf5M7KZ_M8miVQogxB93XSvvZ1V6J459Aw1J9ZetXIYjTNOL3XrTXsYOQWpKVr4O8NFMdQfh9QR/s1600/certificate.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="765" data-original-width="954" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWHP-lIoueVXifIb52XpDkSrAXNT3zOQfcaUjKNuHsD6aTsAYNYv7VcsTG_78Fdq7CxOf5M7KZ_M8miVQogxB93XSvvZ1V6J459Aw1J9ZetXIYjTNOL3XrTXsYOQWpKVr4O8NFMdQfh9QR/s640/certificate.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEr65Vlaungmx86p40WPFxV_P3mlaav_0KrUOE2KGf4w6SniHdDrgmhxgZ5Qnou0I5DDw9nlbr8RL3AutDKC3DatL8Ip3wF2vBbc6tYce1JlkkCpUCIJ6S64-RuMHy09dT0enPKf_8knfa/s1600/results.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="738" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEr65Vlaungmx86p40WPFxV_P3mlaav_0KrUOE2KGf4w6SniHdDrgmhxgZ5Qnou0I5DDw9nlbr8RL3AutDKC3DatL8Ip3wF2vBbc6tYce1JlkkCpUCIJ6S64-RuMHy09dT0enPKf_8knfa/s640/results.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Official results by Everal Race Management</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With a horn to get us started, we were off. Actually the start was very nice and you could feel a slight breeze but that sure didn't last long.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT2llTF12TaPi0KtAlXF55XPWfKB2UN_29bTtMGVBb64sJk6FkhimZOZsEqWXBTg-KiXNBHg4Vh8x-ejzqR26ssv4VhzIGI5K84Ixu9lp_sfdxJ59SBhsaOcgqghSCmLbYP4hR-KdcSL8Z/s1600/IMG_0781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT2llTF12TaPi0KtAlXF55XPWfKB2UN_29bTtMGVBb64sJk6FkhimZOZsEqWXBTg-KiXNBHg4Vh8x-ejzqR26ssv4VhzIGI5K84Ixu9lp_sfdxJ59SBhsaOcgqghSCmLbYP4hR-KdcSL8Z/s640/IMG_0781.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And we were off</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCDaSp7LhQSdlcQl-q3Dqr5ssd610dnJLN9m8kHBoYqGtGhyIJxvrGyux97ntSZUbrxtAlMO4Dvn5O_O8LZqeiu7gAak6WMO3Bf4ZPPsAF5nvwIiRKth4ycc5ZzlsG7FwWVNmy05ZnqV6P/s1600/IMG_0790.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCDaSp7LhQSdlcQl-q3Dqr5ssd610dnJLN9m8kHBoYqGtGhyIJxvrGyux97ntSZUbrxtAlMO4Dvn5O_O8LZqeiu7gAak6WMO3Bf4ZPPsAF5nvwIiRKth4ycc5ZzlsG7FwWVNmy05ZnqV6P/s640/IMG_0790.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note that everything is caged in for the race</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The curves of the course for the race cars were my favorite parts. I loved the blue and white stripes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglpKkzy6CyBUSRPcxurcGenzL1akmMcKvR6d8b8x24WbYLqrLSd2RIu_6M62tPrJBLayQwhxbNK580bSFc3lZPo0tK581ID3LlEK7STvD5jFek4w3pVXPoR2DCzNsVFZBAXsnuCYChodOE/s1600/IMG_0795.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglpKkzy6CyBUSRPcxurcGenzL1akmMcKvR6d8b8x24WbYLqrLSd2RIu_6M62tPrJBLayQwhxbNK580bSFc3lZPo0tK581ID3LlEK7STvD5jFek4w3pVXPoR2DCzNsVFZBAXsnuCYChodOE/s640/IMG_0795.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of curves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As we go further, the course had orange cones to keep you on your right side given the out and back nature of the course.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNbOSuRVsIyM5PNGnilBupOxDl22e8kXLzva5NjX6VtPymlEjdDERNGbxymaJJfeIqihLOorXA5DY5Gr6q59NiUuvaOhHrp-fNumkp2IibOhbntjDCNqdwYJHmB-zo2jfmdWYldPb7xZCX/s1600/IMG_0801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNbOSuRVsIyM5PNGnilBupOxDl22e8kXLzva5NjX6VtPymlEjdDERNGbxymaJJfeIqihLOorXA5DY5Gr6q59NiUuvaOhHrp-fNumkp2IibOhbntjDCNqdwYJHmB-zo2jfmdWYldPb7xZCX/s640/IMG_0801.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was a beautiful and hot day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The course had lots of ads for car related companies.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl6mENkkZ2PLCS5ND7oRwsxcGYVUdBiSvLzcHxVDMYqCbxkDTsSSzNLeoIw0NjNE86nmWhj5_fWJA_NiCbHxAgOMF8Fnx0KYHxTtdqOkxbHVHOyLiBtCalAOEKn0YAfpK12_fRMDWdkFiZ/s1600/IMG_0811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl6mENkkZ2PLCS5ND7oRwsxcGYVUdBiSvLzcHxVDMYqCbxkDTsSSzNLeoIw0NjNE86nmWhj5_fWJA_NiCbHxAgOMF8Fnx0KYHxTtdqOkxbHVHOyLiBtCalAOEKn0YAfpK12_fRMDWdkFiZ/s640/IMG_0811.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of signs/ads</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was one of the more unique courses I've run in a race and a really fun theme especially if you are a car nut!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDIlaHiqc5McSTsPy2m2ITF5espfEZ_uPPD5TWf5vUaOF4woVABdQSYVWN6NgiMp08-DYCYVIdsMtGEMsNV8IB9D7DbxAG5N60XJt21LG6wWfn3KC-C3VFfFLEMVvTqXBisTeQv_SrHF4w/s1600/IMG_0820.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDIlaHiqc5McSTsPy2m2ITF5espfEZ_uPPD5TWf5vUaOF4woVABdQSYVWN6NgiMp08-DYCYVIdsMtGEMsNV8IB9D7DbxAG5N60XJt21LG6wWfn3KC-C3VFfFLEMVvTqXBisTeQv_SrHF4w/s640/IMG_0820.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I liked the corner were painted</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Soon enough, we were already at Mile 1 and the mile marker was about perfect with my Garmin.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqwFkGkv69FVtEktA4yk2w7fCvlU6-M_87mtT4InvGIzlBTJ2Woi3KJe5wn22-iHPfvzPDrHTYbnrWrsiWbX8lhNdRT-RC45_J1zHlRRIKxF8g0ZSuX-mN_RwX_sbZC9hXLA50SVbk10C/s1600/IMG_0832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqwFkGkv69FVtEktA4yk2w7fCvlU6-M_87mtT4InvGIzlBTJ2Woi3KJe5wn22-iHPfvzPDrHTYbnrWrsiWbX8lhNdRT-RC45_J1zHlRRIKxF8g0ZSuX-mN_RwX_sbZC9hXLA50SVbk10C/s640/IMG_0832.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 1</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Before we knew it, the pace car was passing which meant the first runner was already coming back towards us. Holy cow, he was super fast and the heat didn't seem to bother him.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKaRHZ5l1zDKDouQFKjc3_8GkAySpUG6RCmf8QBM1MuXjRJhfVnOnahOZ6XrUnk7CIRivke_Ybw76q4aTuv5puVAeTswUPN5-_gaWLyGCfie0lJTr78OPTP_LwykxywU_Iuf8cDffUIUZ0/s1600/IMG_0838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKaRHZ5l1zDKDouQFKjc3_8GkAySpUG6RCmf8QBM1MuXjRJhfVnOnahOZ6XrUnk7CIRivke_Ybw76q4aTuv5puVAeTswUPN5-_gaWLyGCfie0lJTr78OPTP_LwykxywU_Iuf8cDffUIUZ0/s640/IMG_0838.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pace car coming up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9GLvxPcLtpRaaZK8OmFGNXxEEGk9VHOQ_yTEyWBDQmrLiUwdUordI3Bdl1chGk1diTJNh4keK0-7xMPUlVJJEVDAmmH8mJCcYjJj4gN5uKqssQ1E0a4_sQD9k7fVRbBiNaClERuqtFcw6/s1600/IMG_0846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9GLvxPcLtpRaaZK8OmFGNXxEEGk9VHOQ_yTEyWBDQmrLiUwdUordI3Bdl1chGk1diTJNh4keK0-7xMPUlVJJEVDAmmH8mJCcYjJj4gN5uKqssQ1E0a4_sQD9k7fVRbBiNaClERuqtFcw6/s640/IMG_0846.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYecY19as3wwsC-6MoVJuwa2vqK75OFmnsjEc4wIbIpJ4bNUo5M_LKkEP7H5MYKdr3XaNY32X8ec5Husikn2AnZfaj_Z7f65k7liuor6cGgRgljJghfdGtvrkdf8adw9iCxRJbd8XJ0xa9/s1600/IMG_0880.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYecY19as3wwsC-6MoVJuwa2vqK75OFmnsjEc4wIbIpJ4bNUo5M_LKkEP7H5MYKdr3XaNY32X8ec5Husikn2AnZfaj_Z7f65k7liuor6cGgRgljJghfdGtvrkdf8adw9iCxRJbd8XJ0xa9/s640/IMG_0880.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cones to keep runners on correct side</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I noticed just about the 2 mile marker, there were several runners who needed to stop running because they were not feeling well due to the heat. I tried to keep my pace but definitely slowed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHp93wHXLac5TD0_U5uPKwlhb0RlLGhdziAwssPRCtABwZxZs8DsPDzIIqiY8B-A2q0L55jyy6SKbx3oExISWq1ZkxryWGE8TSurTFNkV_3thBmNyaEdv7NPk3M28DPWoiZ3eRu8YHu6Up/s1600/IMG_0889.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHp93wHXLac5TD0_U5uPKwlhb0RlLGhdziAwssPRCtABwZxZs8DsPDzIIqiY8B-A2q0L55jyy6SKbx3oExISWq1ZkxryWGE8TSurTFNkV_3thBmNyaEdv7NPk3M28DPWoiZ3eRu8YHu6Up/s640/IMG_0889.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbQMz5ha8PDZt8sdKOzfR1AEOrHt_kZ-_sh3ehmw-YgKzbGTwcc0fVhNLefZx_mZvouhHmEehjf3g_R39GIFcK2MBsmckoHnktTUGqfrdsKBGkD-HeWo9ciN8mx2fxdREig5bsr7gaPxqY/s1600/IMG_0891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbQMz5ha8PDZt8sdKOzfR1AEOrHt_kZ-_sh3ehmw-YgKzbGTwcc0fVhNLefZx_mZvouhHmEehjf3g_R39GIFcK2MBsmckoHnktTUGqfrdsKBGkD-HeWo9ciN8mx2fxdREig5bsr7gaPxqY/s640/IMG_0891.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At about the 2.5 mile mark, I had to stop and walk for just a bit. The heat was starting to get to me. I took a short walk and then started running again.<br />
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More curves made for a nice course. I would have loved to be able to drive my car on the course. Haha!<br />
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The trees in parts of the course also helped shade us from the sun but only for short periods.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD-EthWvS_szY54hSM9sTJU-XviHjTL2xfMSrCQ6CLvUqps2xir38lhfySBQ36KqrENR49l7XYjldvh16n92wE8vC15cNdbq027MbxE3OCxHX_a3Xk9kYr2vqSFY_H53xMoghUwBX4lrIw/s1600/IMG_0933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD-EthWvS_szY54hSM9sTJU-XviHjTL2xfMSrCQ6CLvUqps2xir38lhfySBQ36KqrENR49l7XYjldvh16n92wE8vC15cNdbq027MbxE3OCxHX_a3Xk9kYr2vqSFY_H53xMoghUwBX4lrIw/s640/IMG_0933.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3JLIEBz1JQv5K5XHAL4W8JWKx0furdmi4y0eXlapU6r9MMUAyLbCS-suyjLipSuZPxxGzsFC_Z0qQ43AaNUMeJD5FO4EehP0EevxMHrpC2TgrLNEzI5XMnjxKGH8uOHcagZ-ELZkQnqta/s1600/IMG_0939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3JLIEBz1JQv5K5XHAL4W8JWKx0furdmi4y0eXlapU6r9MMUAyLbCS-suyjLipSuZPxxGzsFC_Z0qQ43AaNUMeJD5FO4EehP0EevxMHrpC2TgrLNEzI5XMnjxKGH8uOHcagZ-ELZkQnqta/s640/IMG_0939.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
The race course had these awesome We Love Detroit signs. I think I saw 3 of these on the course itself.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIvgLXfPJ32xQNXsyI0nutP_j5bCohGdw98mQ4O7n2_xaFkPCd8A-WWEQJ17mqlNvopAr7QAPO0EhigRohGzDL2QVckLM-PlyH0zYxUE4KkiGFQ8u8DrDC7S2ygu5Kyw__9ctnTFCHiFJs/s1600/IMG_0950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIvgLXfPJ32xQNXsyI0nutP_j5bCohGdw98mQ4O7n2_xaFkPCd8A-WWEQJ17mqlNvopAr7QAPO0EhigRohGzDL2QVckLM-PlyH0zYxUE4KkiGFQ8u8DrDC7S2ygu5Kyw__9ctnTFCHiFJs/s640/IMG_0950.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great Detroit sign!</td></tr>
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Mile 3 could not come soon enough. I was so hot!!!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3i6CXrhCIRpyksOIPWjJR-vhznSu9Kff-3DPGb4u-vYUNhogotQqzUeds8rxee2XaWhPEr3d4yG3czmK5lgHr2SowJJX6Xyf60dGxg4kaG8lNDKhFjqkBzKn2tTlqs0MEfhi9rRdxTm3B/s1600/IMG_0958.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3i6CXrhCIRpyksOIPWjJR-vhznSu9Kff-3DPGb4u-vYUNhogotQqzUeds8rxee2XaWhPEr3d4yG3czmK5lgHr2SowJJX6Xyf60dGxg4kaG8lNDKhFjqkBzKn2tTlqs0MEfhi9rRdxTm3B/s640/IMG_0958.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpIqZyH6ouK3pHKUWwfdwqJkDMJu1njeSB0f4utw67igjbnfczB5BDUep4IOuoA-zJBPFGqgGZYDnaVlUD03n7T-jJgYH0t6jaUkWCzt7-HUFKM66Fz_Oap9KccFso_rKubFUCPTO3-kw/s1600/IMG_0963.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpIqZyH6ouK3pHKUWwfdwqJkDMJu1njeSB0f4utw67igjbnfczB5BDUep4IOuoA-zJBPFGqgGZYDnaVlUD03n7T-jJgYH0t6jaUkWCzt7-HUFKM66Fz_Oap9KccFso_rKubFUCPTO3-kw/s640/IMG_0963.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Finally, I was at the finish where the photographer was taking pictures of us.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpzJX1h7Pwqpg911T_cEEjbzXr1hdOE1yCR5G7yMh6VJdg6QAX-BFZfL9LVpv1J5Du3Qa-NyAsVWsDaFDMW3DntPhRttEH2cAAYAL7A1IfjSZc72WtFShCxS8rk1mwKDiJEERY5tvp9Mm_/s1600/IMG_0970.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpzJX1h7Pwqpg911T_cEEjbzXr1hdOE1yCR5G7yMh6VJdg6QAX-BFZfL9LVpv1J5Du3Qa-NyAsVWsDaFDMW3DntPhRttEH2cAAYAL7A1IfjSZc72WtFShCxS8rk1mwKDiJEERY5tvp9Mm_/s640/IMG_0970.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish!</td></tr>
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<b><u>Aid Stations</u></b><br />
The race had one aid station at about the half way mark. Pretty much all that was needed for a 5k. I also carried water primarily because it was so hot and didn't want to wait that long. Many 5k's I never stop for water but I knew personally I'd never make the full course without my water given the heat.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2oBnDyVvS0jfdAiHZjx_h2P1QpSB4sVCm-WRAEvJVbx_5y-TvDAGMsjnXLGpC3JIzAO5wLdvtUtpn8-lA_cVYgd1hWbO5Cu8aovdV3J_vfM9pDmr2fDaGAnjgmX-6KVoZg9LUWoUCO2ut/s1600/IMG_0856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2oBnDyVvS0jfdAiHZjx_h2P1QpSB4sVCm-WRAEvJVbx_5y-TvDAGMsjnXLGpC3JIzAO5wLdvtUtpn8-lA_cVYgd1hWbO5Cu8aovdV3J_vfM9pDmr2fDaGAnjgmX-6KVoZg9LUWoUCO2ut/s640/IMG_0856.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aid Station</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Finish Area</u></b><br />
After the race, the course had Granola Bars and Bananas ready for the runners as well as water. I would have like to see the waters in ice given the heat but at that point I was just happy to have anything liquid in me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj60tghhq2fk1I65xHO3MsjrlxyvmFPvHrn5qOdE6raLceWHG4rLZ6-9k_MeV-RB_rU_Zy4qtW89PXvFoMCcz28NpfMRlPswueVJ-C34bGFb3uxNiF1yy2FD1RcIT4uEJIdELEFQXTobCr2/s1600/IMG_0976.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj60tghhq2fk1I65xHO3MsjrlxyvmFPvHrn5qOdE6raLceWHG4rLZ6-9k_MeV-RB_rU_Zy4qtW89PXvFoMCcz28NpfMRlPswueVJ-C34bGFb3uxNiF1yy2FD1RcIT4uEJIdELEFQXTobCr2/s640/IMG_0976.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bananas and Granola Bars</td></tr>
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You could also check your race results immediately with your bib number. A nice touch.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_X_twx8xwhgsnLgJIg0q_j8kdoYTf2BgxmzyE8VfeV25gOE0vRf6GOGHvRokn80MzEuOB1PKS3LOPJ2GkTI8e61zjwek2kvxl_8XzUBvBD3uwoNCQGk7fnALnLB9AgPiMcm7SxMGVpzhU/s1600/IMG_0977.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_X_twx8xwhgsnLgJIg0q_j8kdoYTf2BgxmzyE8VfeV25gOE0vRf6GOGHvRokn80MzEuOB1PKS3LOPJ2GkTI8e61zjwek2kvxl_8XzUBvBD3uwoNCQGk7fnALnLB9AgPiMcm7SxMGVpzhU/s640/IMG_0977.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Water and immediate results</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Amenities</u></b><br />
For your registration fee, you received a chip timed measured course. <br />
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You also received a pair of Tifosi sunglasses which is essentially in place of a tech shirt. I loved this idea mainly because, if you run a lot of races, you have a ton of shirts - many that you don't ever wear so this was a great change. I'm partial to Tifosi since it's all I wear when I'm running or doing races. I love their glasses. They are great quality and inexpensive. While I opted for a pair, for $7 less, you could have opted out of the sunglasses if you didn't want them. They are completely worth the extra money though.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWdKDO4gG_IegmUTNCKFwUw6fAfyvyjSmy0uj1Jtn3YAu1SN8Jj9H42ObrFbADmCEzL2MWO3R8Cb78t_Nhr2mtX2YJ2lnnbDNvxJ18e8X_xRA7y9yTDviTK0634-eleLVjNMzbbYk0eZa4/s1600/DSC_0014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1060" data-original-width="1600" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWdKDO4gG_IegmUTNCKFwUw6fAfyvyjSmy0uj1Jtn3YAu1SN8Jj9H42ObrFbADmCEzL2MWO3R8Cb78t_Nhr2mtX2YJ2lnnbDNvxJ18e8X_xRA7y9yTDviTK0634-eleLVjNMzbbYk0eZa4/s640/DSC_0014.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tifosi Sunglasses</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You also received a RunDetroit sunglasses case. I didn't even know we were getting this when I registered. I love it!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIpOQgcfeLtjCeJbgXRMNIgBQpka2_EQVWI_V-lvAARwDA96MkRKnQcn0ZafvaM2KK46HU8H25gsOVH_WM7ExL7muzKJRifVEPnaNshXBwybggFXOo5YwdDMQIqN3V6byuXnCKiKy1d9lC/s1600/DSC_0016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1060" data-original-width="1600" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIpOQgcfeLtjCeJbgXRMNIgBQpka2_EQVWI_V-lvAARwDA96MkRKnQcn0ZafvaM2KK46HU8H25gsOVH_WM7ExL7muzKJRifVEPnaNshXBwybggFXOo5YwdDMQIqN3V6byuXnCKiKy1d9lC/s640/DSC_0016.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">RunDetroit sunglasses case</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The medal itself was very nice and had a race car on the front. It's hard to tell in the picture but it's about the size of the palm of your hand and quite heavy. It's a super nice medal for a 5k race.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBhIXTdua7xJWVMfE2iwG3_V_q4uk5nojhQiotN91Hj7AwYdcU9LKGcOP1a-K8EwVkISEZiAa-c8wMRk-CL06F0S5NwZQeen6MbxvGOz_zTdTT1j3w9Ei8Vr5s1hcsYzsz7a3aRs6QcGYt/s1600/DSC_0021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="874" data-original-width="1600" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBhIXTdua7xJWVMfE2iwG3_V_q4uk5nojhQiotN91Hj7AwYdcU9LKGcOP1a-K8EwVkISEZiAa-c8wMRk-CL06F0S5NwZQeen6MbxvGOz_zTdTT1j3w9Ei8Vr5s1hcsYzsz7a3aRs6QcGYt/s640/DSC_0021.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race Medal with ribbon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Look at the detail in this medal......for a 5k. Amazing.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQdiokhWwKy8tl4hzTv5lcsUylWweLWjORxFeWVIKaCcKNIyUldUn8T8ZXtxrhbcymTaRGknbLzPvv9vSpkSvuoIKzPbpl16afmRWG7l0bax2HSIAzf232Cg1w23K7cYXQMJeFU8MJwQqA/s1600/DSC_0022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1392" data-original-width="1517" height="586" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQdiokhWwKy8tl4hzTv5lcsUylWweLWjORxFeWVIKaCcKNIyUldUn8T8ZXtxrhbcymTaRGknbLzPvv9vSpkSvuoIKzPbpl16afmRWG7l0bax2HSIAzf232Cg1w23K7cYXQMJeFU8MJwQqA/s640/DSC_0022.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The race even had the Grand Prix course (complete with the turn numbers) etched into the back of the medal. What a great idea!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh46ugvfDoUFWub_nyx0rKBmGzBfLvfnMNFYa6Gi_OCuth_6hB_lWoDCwN1anpHp_CTRTob9N-I_CCLDOOKrDpxTwMHp2A7iHkOh4mRJWSLW4NVKa30ZHRjGWfVTTKLZ00nEALkVECxa00W/s1600/DSC_0023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1405" data-original-width="1600" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh46ugvfDoUFWub_nyx0rKBmGzBfLvfnMNFYa6Gi_OCuth_6hB_lWoDCwN1anpHp_CTRTob9N-I_CCLDOOKrDpxTwMHp2A7iHkOh4mRJWSLW4NVKa30ZHRjGWfVTTKLZ00nEALkVECxa00W/s640/DSC_0023.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back of medal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The race also offered free race photos for download. I had numerous pictures to choose from. Here's the one at the finish. (I have to shut my Garmin off now! haha) You could also buy discounted Grand Prix tickets if you wanted to see the race.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6JCLjfsfz_rAyMfciDHlhEkXw39B2NPkAlg4e_wi-FKYLXCCEVNlgK45X1QB1OJameOIL7M9zNc1WMz5ApzxXw6bfIIOR2_jsLzJgx7jQWNvn3T5havIXqyDUfkfW8lV1d3Wn9oHHxW9w/s1600/10295_2023830_enm1655075344ram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6JCLjfsfz_rAyMfciDHlhEkXw39B2NPkAlg4e_wi-FKYLXCCEVNlgK45X1QB1OJameOIL7M9zNc1WMz5ApzxXw6bfIIOR2_jsLzJgx7jQWNvn3T5havIXqyDUfkfW8lV1d3Wn9oHHxW9w/s640/10295_2023830_enm1655075344ram.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Free race photos!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><u>Organization</u></b><br />
The organization was fantastic for the race. Well planned website with all information noted. All questions answers. RunDetroit posted about the race on Facebook too and answered runners questions too. The parking was very clear. They had a shuttle going back and forth from the parking to the start. The packet pickup was well organized and you could get it at RunDetroit with plenty of times to get it early. There was gear check if you wanted it. The start and finish were well organized with plenty of room for runners to wait to start. The course distance was perfect according to my Garmin. The follow up for results was amazing and within hours we had result AND pictures. I've never seem them come this fast in any race I've done. There was even a follow up thank you email. The only thing that could have been better was cooler weather. Ha!<br />
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<b><u>Overall</u></b><br />
Overall a really fun race car theme 5k. It's one that if you are going to be in town for Memorial Day, a great way to finish your Holiday weekend. The unique course is what got me to sign up for it along with the outstanding amenities for a fair price. RunDetroit has always done an awesome job at races and I always look forward to running any race they organize. For a unique course, this is one to put on your list to run.<br />
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Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRUc6PB4OdGxivPTVemYKHqfoN7kDYSpumaJL8zPp-B3bJyRrXrXnNsSdIH1f0XZ-trx7yD3J-_nVGHvdHTt1bZiHxq9JZWierC0xW4pA9mDKtm2xTrl5zKh6fqfJ-5ERfsy0babGxgH_w/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="39" data-original-width="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRUc6PB4OdGxivPTVemYKHqfoN7kDYSpumaJL8zPp-B3bJyRrXrXnNsSdIH1f0XZ-trx7yD3J-_nVGHvdHTt1bZiHxq9JZWierC0xW4pA9mDKtm2xTrl5zKh6fqfJ-5ERfsy0babGxgH_w/s1600/signature.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: I paid for my full registration fee and all opinions are my own.</span><br />
<br />Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-382335598749660902017-12-31T16:17:00.000-05:002017-12-31T16:17:16.270-05:002017 Recap - Detroit Runner or Biker?Hey all, long time, no post. For those that have followed me on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter, you know that I was injured at the end of June this year. It took some time to heal (and I purposely took off more time that I needed) and, in the meantime, I didn't just sit around and do nothing (Well, not everyday at least).<br />
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I moved to biking in July and started using my old road bike and my old mountain bike. I used to ride my road bike thousands of miles years back when I was in school. The injury was both a blessing and a curse. No running but lots of biking. And by the way, biking costs so much more!!!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyiFEqoakItKOBTWe1oc1m34rWNI0ApcfBeeC9HlNY4y4Xfmlc9NVNnO4WRrHLJPDl9rjMDn4lmRvA8uWyFvvz1obyZO_Xbm_6fPDK3v9_1fUnoBMDxwxebCXaTr8eNJzKaK1u5ApL-SRU/s1600/IMG_8280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1333" data-original-width="1001" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyiFEqoakItKOBTWe1oc1m34rWNI0ApcfBeeC9HlNY4y4Xfmlc9NVNnO4WRrHLJPDl9rjMDn4lmRvA8uWyFvvz1obyZO_Xbm_6fPDK3v9_1fUnoBMDxwxebCXaTr8eNJzKaK1u5ApL-SRU/s640/IMG_8280.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 25+ year old mountain bike</td></tr>
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I wanted to run again however this time I couldn't. Fortunately I fell back in love with biking and bought myself a cross bike. I figured I'd ride my old bike until I was sure I was going to get into biking again.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTEr-X4vGZTPIMMtuh0sROzQuX4Xh1IaEcEcZxj3U0ZGpMn5_2BFaBhaAZL2QBsXvhB5Sf-uPkf1djBq_U37EHM1g_dRQxwXxCS2qtrOgeft2EZpy7XhnXyqegTSknQUfTwpAMTbNP5mBk/s1600/IMG_8495.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTEr-X4vGZTPIMMtuh0sROzQuX4Xh1IaEcEcZxj3U0ZGpMn5_2BFaBhaAZL2QBsXvhB5Sf-uPkf1djBq_U37EHM1g_dRQxwXxCS2qtrOgeft2EZpy7XhnXyqegTSknQUfTwpAMTbNP5mBk/s640/IMG_8495.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Specialized Crosstrail - an awesome all around bike!</td></tr>
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I was able to get my endurance on the bike up to 50 miles and was pretty happy with that. I even rode to work in the Summer several times. Given the distance you need to cover on a bike to make it equivalent to a run, I got to explore some new places and some great trails and parks that I never would have seen from running. I even did a bike race as well as a tour this year for the first time and it was so fun!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7MvjMue-mIJRC5dcLceu3Y_T9opkn-GnaAjWZFjJ2zA0cRxdsTDwzevmjXlq1cpv4YrcA4Iz0402PIYL2XqArkGZ8kwn8gSoh9wq3OMAVx3tNPnzf77MYwfJL13oQIYf7Sj6U_W0SRJWf/s1600/IMG_1576.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7MvjMue-mIJRC5dcLceu3Y_T9opkn-GnaAjWZFjJ2zA0cRxdsTDwzevmjXlq1cpv4YrcA4Iz0402PIYL2XqArkGZ8kwn8gSoh9wq3OMAVx3tNPnzf77MYwfJL13oQIYf7Sj6U_W0SRJWf/s640/IMG_1576.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beat the Trail group ride - a 34 mile course through Detroit (and it's awesome)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSzrZNIUPRhVHiWnBC5dUnhgMQ4F96KKE47BQeFYQFV6V76EHnLL95PQ4ug8H6x8k81q1wdo8FOaRI9tj0Bi3g8MluVuNYMEqr_Equg5Tc3aNQE2pyhOrSt8CRFhbmH5wfe-w1nXkDSkZA/s1600/IMG_8794.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="751" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSzrZNIUPRhVHiWnBC5dUnhgMQ4F96KKE47BQeFYQFV6V76EHnLL95PQ4ug8H6x8k81q1wdo8FOaRI9tj0Bi3g8MluVuNYMEqr_Equg5Tc3aNQE2pyhOrSt8CRFhbmH5wfe-w1nXkDSkZA/s640/IMG_8794.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tour De Troit - did this with a couple friends and was super fun</td></tr>
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Then I liked it so much, I decided to buy a Fat Bike. This was not only so that I could get back onto the trails that I loved running but also so I could bike all year long. I had a little mishap at the end of October and fell on the bike and bruised some ribs. Wow! It took me out for 4 weeks - no running or biking of any kind for the majority of November. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjymmML5GMm3nNPL-go6NnJ_EHkpHNZu8eDHdhnnSp-PCPE04OgsVwJ2OiAPdQigB62nJBt8wDEa5vjyiA5j5re_FSkZxMgAzbk5jBjbOeRsHpgJpLx0r0cs2iwyJBAQCertN9dSzUPFAxz/s1600/IMG_9022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjymmML5GMm3nNPL-go6NnJ_EHkpHNZu8eDHdhnnSp-PCPE04OgsVwJ2OiAPdQigB62nJBt8wDEa5vjyiA5j5re_FSkZxMgAzbk5jBjbOeRsHpgJpLx0r0cs2iwyJBAQCertN9dSzUPFAxz/s640/IMG_9022.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Addison Oaks mountain bike trails</td></tr>
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It's been quite an adventure but I love having the option of biking in the Winter. For those of you that have not tried it, it's really a fun sport riding on the snowy trails.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhptmuzBJhmsdmQMCc0r-qjB5iqW9c4icX6RgVvC3gWETC_yvv3bwuQnCO06bMxYd-JEtwtwouBSDv3tqZSpflIZ5AIG9DUYSDBp-GCS2YC-g_fF13U-39rBk5zSNEaafOuJh5wq4XcJBL7/s1600/IMG_0198.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhptmuzBJhmsdmQMCc0r-qjB5iqW9c4icX6RgVvC3gWETC_yvv3bwuQnCO06bMxYd-JEtwtwouBSDv3tqZSpflIZ5AIG9DUYSDBp-GCS2YC-g_fF13U-39rBk5zSNEaafOuJh5wq4XcJBL7/s640/IMG_0198.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Specialized Fatboy Fat Bike</td></tr>
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I also added snowshoeing into the mix to help do some cross-training. I really plan to focus more on cross-training this year to help keep me from injury. Not only is snowshoeing really fun, it's a great workout as well.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWft4vjV4cQAuo6Tf8ahskgwaVVqUSNHMVfc7Hc4Kcid5vb4ukVFm2sZktZWgZyZ2248VVo9uOaN6IYUfO3HQ-n4N6cmJ2nxs42h5McD76dzeExhyHUyss2G70tU7G2H0kQHVWzh_Txv8k/s1600/IMG_0133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWft4vjV4cQAuo6Tf8ahskgwaVVqUSNHMVfc7Hc4Kcid5vb4ukVFm2sZktZWgZyZ2248VVo9uOaN6IYUfO3HQ-n4N6cmJ2nxs42h5McD76dzeExhyHUyss2G70tU7G2H0kQHVWzh_Txv8k/s640/IMG_0133.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The snow has been plentiful for snowshoeing this season.</td></tr>
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Finally, I also got back to running but only December has been a little more regular. I've built back to about 3.5 miles per run and continue to get stronger everyday. I hope to be back to 100% by late Spring/Summer.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhLuPDgwEtxDthnri3We2krrXntHOoWHjje-FHfryvz6xMOt9roXNQN8Mt60JPQXWLeXPXIqkFr15NPOMK7WTGYcx4TmUjypE_nrN9rq_Tb5yVwLl2L6N98asRft0JC99Hc7Q7DVMFacIF/s1600/IMG_0182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhLuPDgwEtxDthnri3We2krrXntHOoWHjje-FHfryvz6xMOt9roXNQN8Mt60JPQXWLeXPXIqkFr15NPOMK7WTGYcx4TmUjypE_nrN9rq_Tb5yVwLl2L6N98asRft0JC99Hc7Q7DVMFacIF/s640/IMG_0182.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally some running too</td></tr>
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I ended my year with 1,442 miles on the bikes and 786 miles running. I'll take it for a year when injury was the theme. The best thing that came out of this was that I now have two primary sports to focus on for next year. Maybe I should start to swim?<br />
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My goal for 2018 is to get back to more regular running and get my distance back to the half marathon. I'll likely not run a marathon or longer distance again but I do love the challenge of the half marathon and I can do the training for this while still being able to ride the bikes regularly too. I've missed out on a lot of running races this year so hopefully I'll be back with a few reviews for some new races next season but we will have to see about that next year.<br />
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Hope you all had a great year. With my injuries, I'm very happy 2017 is over and am looking forward to a much better year in 2018.<br />
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Have a great day and.....Keep Running!!!! (and Biking!)<br />
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<br />Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-7809811374920519162017-06-18T14:07:00.004-04:002017-06-18T14:07:48.509-04:00Nathan Global Running Day Winner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVdpGuilmuaiwtOLNFaSfd52PYWzhWo5s5lMX0B2wdBa_XLWCCmfvPwaQeWnFRHG5PDnOgSCaQk0MReBuW36L0tGRPRznrPH6xA_RTIATccJG_xcWche-ndjqMEQgehuX2fU6AEwIfUSne/s1600/BloggerGiveaway_June_2017%25402x+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1030" data-original-width="1500" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVdpGuilmuaiwtOLNFaSfd52PYWzhWo5s5lMX0B2wdBa_XLWCCmfvPwaQeWnFRHG5PDnOgSCaQk0MReBuW36L0tGRPRznrPH6xA_RTIATccJG_xcWche-ndjqMEQgehuX2fU6AEwIfUSne/s640/BloggerGiveaway_June_2017%25402x+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Sorry all! I forgot to announce the winner of the Nathan Global Running Day winner on Wednesday! Using Random (dot) org, the winner is Kristen!!!<br />
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Congratulations Kristen! Thanks also to Nathan for putting on this great giveaway!<br />
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Kristen - please contact me via email for your address and we will get the package out to you.<br />
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Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
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<br />Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-59359453014441402392017-06-07T06:00:00.000-04:002017-06-07T06:00:19.263-04:00Nathan Global Running Day Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg31GqRUCHGUHUY6RqiZEaePb01Z3M_Rj9zafzZmEM7o97ePzFib6TSfRau41dwwvZnAkaT1Pc3xtaajg32krGA-Sw5Fg9Slg4HlB0PidaWI4PlH0t3K0nwJ5UEMT-7H3psoz7OGx-Nj0JV/s1600/BloggerGiveaway_June_2017%25402x+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1030" data-original-width="1500" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg31GqRUCHGUHUY6RqiZEaePb01Z3M_Rj9zafzZmEM7o97ePzFib6TSfRau41dwwvZnAkaT1Pc3xtaajg32krGA-Sw5Fg9Slg4HlB0PidaWI4PlH0t3K0nwJ5UEMT-7H3psoz7OGx-Nj0JV/s640/BloggerGiveaway_June_2017%25402x+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's that time of year again! It's Global Running Day today. How far did you run?<br />
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Last year <b><u><a href="https://www.nathansports.com/" target="_blank">Nathan</a></u></b> did a giveaway for Global Running Day and they are doing it again this year. I received some awesome products to test out and tell you about. Check them out below!<br />
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First up is the Nathan Speedshot Plus. This is a handy 12 oz water bottle. I've been using this for the past six months and it's fantastic for short runs and races. The top is soft to the touch and has a nice zipper pocket for keys or gel. You can even get your iPhone 7 in there if that is all you put in it. Nathan upgraded the bottle this year to give it more grip too. I use mine at least 4 times a week and its showing no wear and you can also throw it in the wash with your other running stuff.<br />
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Speaking of wash, Nathan also included some packets of Power Wash. This is detergent that is especially formulated to get the odors out of your running clothes. I know we all have had that smell we just can't get out. Give this a try!<br />
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Next is the McDavid Ucool Ultra Cooling Towel. Just wet it and the towel automatically becomes up to 30 degrees cooler than the average body temperature. I like it because it's large - 15 x 35 and you can easily throw it in the wash after use. This will come in very handy when the temperatures start rising this summer or for those of you in warmer climates all year. It's really soft and comfortable unlike some products I have seen like this.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwEAZTrcNiCcDw1-OILNKdejOo7vdhYXuOwd2zd7b5NNzl2Tu5U9DxX-Q_FIkh8t29aAfLepYVomgPIIwUSswGLJsiwJVmZkD2UE4TeS0ms0eG1LfptgEHrHH1XwvlMdEZxlp25-HxZYhP/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="915" data-original-width="1000" height="584" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwEAZTrcNiCcDw1-OILNKdejOo7vdhYXuOwd2zd7b5NNzl2Tu5U9DxX-Q_FIkh8t29aAfLepYVomgPIIwUSswGLJsiwJVmZkD2UE4TeS0ms0eG1LfptgEHrHH1XwvlMdEZxlp25-HxZYhP/s640/DSC_0003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Finally Nathan provided The Hipster. This is a running belt that allows you to carry your phone (up to an iPhone 6 plus). I only have the iPhone 7 but this belt got a ton of uses over the last six months. The belt sits close to your body so it does not move around. I can't even tell it's there most of the time until I need to use my phone. I have found best results by having the phone in front of me so it's very convenient. It's been a great tool to allow me to take pictures while on my runs in the morning. I have to say that it's the most comfortable running belt I've worn and I've tried plenty.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0WK8PmJXivuVyTx1kAarNuwil3aHXAtMGMoG_0ITGfchYGfykt5D3VCmgi53LyTcayGkyxP_9yVWDVAHxI41dqIk8OK8cMhOd9bhTdygDdZFYgP4Phx98O0VDz1cHMR_mecK8y_3aIFFN/s1600/DSC_0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="396" data-original-width="1000" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0WK8PmJXivuVyTx1kAarNuwil3aHXAtMGMoG_0ITGfchYGfykt5D3VCmgi53LyTcayGkyxP_9yVWDVAHxI41dqIk8OK8cMhOd9bhTdygDdZFYgP4Phx98O0VDz1cHMR_mecK8y_3aIFFN/s640/DSC_0004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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So who would like to win this great package?<br />
<br />
Nathan has offered to give away a set of this package to one lucky Detroit Runner reader. Here's the rules:<br />
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1) Post a comment on this blog post telling us what you did for Global Running Day (one entry)<br />
2) Share this post on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter and tag me(@detroitrunner, Detroitrunner or @detroitrunner1) and Nathan(@nathansportsinc, @nathanperformancegear, or @NathanSportsInc) (one entry)<br />
3) Like Nathan on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter and come back and let me know with a comment (one entry)<br />
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Good luck everyone! I will post a winner one week from today!<br />
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Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTkQrTr3wvxe_urPYPB2MUSj-y_NIrb1lF4t7NXwMWuUkCbjFqkYdul15EIrYonihZG9m0N4VC0BaMQFzR1fs-hgMy1n2xG-tfoj2SmTksACzLslyak2k3ETXpm8hbIrsu_nMR7b46ZuW/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="39" data-original-width="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTkQrTr3wvxe_urPYPB2MUSj-y_NIrb1lF4t7NXwMWuUkCbjFqkYdul15EIrYonihZG9m0N4VC0BaMQFzR1fs-hgMy1n2xG-tfoj2SmTksACzLslyak2k3ETXpm8hbIrsu_nMR7b46ZuW/s1600/signature.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I receive each of these products in exchange for this blog post. All opinions are my own and I was not required to give a particular opinion other than an honest one.</span>Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-43833794483413016162017-05-20T19:07:00.002-04:002017-05-20T19:07:23.690-04:00Highland Loops 16 Mile Trail race review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-gA1Xmu3lR0ESWx7phy_FWU5LREACVBoePKlK1LwPiSr-Kg849ibXQNDcX-Q33Zvz9KhN20IBnmZFZLFRCWsyfYHFm7ychAT3vRBrJca42H1XpcvZq5iCU6NtFbfEp0ikQZZfYOiEPZkj/s1600/DSC_0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="540" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-gA1Xmu3lR0ESWx7phy_FWU5LREACVBoePKlK1LwPiSr-Kg849ibXQNDcX-Q33Zvz9KhN20IBnmZFZLFRCWsyfYHFm7ychAT3vRBrJca42H1XpcvZq5iCU6NtFbfEp0ikQZZfYOiEPZkj/s640/DSC_0005.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Short Version</span></strong> </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Finished in 3:25:53. New PR, this was my first 16 mile race </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Overall Place: 51/56</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Men 40-49: 23/28</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Timed race #124</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Planned this one as a slow training run since I didn't want to push myself to keep my hip healthy. It's fun to run at the back of the pack! Ran with a few friends that made it a much more enjoyable race since the time flew by. What a great race this is. Not only is the course awesome but the atmosphere is very friendly and the finish line party is incredible and one of the best I've ever been to for a race. There is also a 7 mile option too if you are not up for the 16 miler. This is one to put on your list for next year. I know I'll be back.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b><u>Long Version</u></b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b><u>Registration/Packet Pickup/Start Area</u></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Registration was online and very easy. While the race did not fill up really quick, it did sell out so I suggest signing up when registration opens since the race limits the amount of runners.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmILTVPPU4gd__lqdkk-mcDwgImlkP1lNqabUfZtUMgRKYTnuI59GR2j8saR31KiZYt_WSNVB9b_1ca7Devj6UqFlEjYnCwqS1B0sN9cj9byD4iawLcGS_TyGNbMS_B6D6pGtlReZnnkNh/s1600/IMG_7156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmILTVPPU4gd__lqdkk-mcDwgImlkP1lNqabUfZtUMgRKYTnuI59GR2j8saR31KiZYt_WSNVB9b_1ca7Devj6UqFlEjYnCwqS1B0sN9cj9byD4iawLcGS_TyGNbMS_B6D6pGtlReZnnkNh/s640/IMG_7156.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Registration/Start area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Packet pickup was well organized and you just needed to give your last name to get your packet. I got there fairly early - around 7:10am and the parking lot at the trailhead was already full so I parked in front of it on the street. Worked out great. We had plenty of time to socialize with everyone before the race started and I got to meet Dave's dog, Cooper.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAqGNV09Ec-Qb1NBMssicQB6d3JBsgXFvjKQlgYmdDK1hQTgqIRockH9UzSTaKt34KHK_Q_gayJLoHsR83fZZJMtbd20stRavR_eua4ak2efnC5qIQZESvdBI1vXCwig9kupEGTuT2OOo_/s1600/IMG_7161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAqGNV09Ec-Qb1NBMssicQB6d3JBsgXFvjKQlgYmdDK1hQTgqIRockH9UzSTaKt34KHK_Q_gayJLoHsR83fZZJMtbd20stRavR_eua4ak2efnC5qIQZESvdBI1vXCwig9kupEGTuT2OOo_/s640/IMG_7161.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few of us before the start - Steve is smiling inside :)</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">The time went quick and the race was making announcements and doing the National Anthem for both Canada and USA before we started.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFxHbRVgMiH_jb6q8HC1lDQ54qTwZAZ9moe7csqEBDd6UOwc4M_b8kOGyXhWsMvwJ9msQkzYNnpzEWRceINvdrzvPB3lK2gqgst0zxvBx3h_usTVt05o_ICACGV8IDmpwpEZgiVGv_Pe66/s1600/IMG_7166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFxHbRVgMiH_jb6q8HC1lDQ54qTwZAZ9moe7csqEBDd6UOwc4M_b8kOGyXhWsMvwJ9msQkzYNnpzEWRceINvdrzvPB3lK2gqgst0zxvBx3h_usTVt05o_ICACGV8IDmpwpEZgiVGv_Pe66/s640/IMG_7166.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few announcements before the start</td></tr>
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They had a few waves go off and I went in the back of the second wave to keep things slow. Worked out perfect.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrErO8rmjos87ovEn9ZKzgnpt4Ub2ty8uRTsHcYf0l2jpRZBA8WMTl5W7t0edF4HRO0lKRxSOpsR1QgqyMWFICRNvGfqeubrjfLYHIR3mxlPoHDJTqWU7NYJj4Scyav1J77xsWWNI46_7p/s1600/IMG_7168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrErO8rmjos87ovEn9ZKzgnpt4Ub2ty8uRTsHcYf0l2jpRZBA8WMTl5W7t0edF4HRO0lKRxSOpsR1QgqyMWFICRNvGfqeubrjfLYHIR3mxlPoHDJTqWU7NYJj4Scyav1J77xsWWNI46_7p/s640/IMG_7168.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We are ready to run - second wave</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b><u>Course</u></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">I posted the below statistics as I thought it was interesting that it shows we were climbing 47% of the time we race. That's a lot of climbing - 158 stories worth according to my Garmin. Speaking of which, the Garmin back in this area is never right. I don't know if it's because of the tree cover or all the twists and turns but it was off about 2 miles as we ran over 16 miles compared to about 14 on the Garmin. Check out that elevation too - 1,640 feet! Pretty hilly race!</span></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKgX4xNm4KdURctOAmW_NyyhsVmGFejKgQGz2LtR02RZlCkcWfptMKgWgHEFhH6gPa7UUTQVkCJlklN_ZdWm9o1fIZB1g5Aph16gVnbjj7i7Gt3dJiVeXbCPVysSmji7wwB0B82O252ck3/s1600/stats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKgX4xNm4KdURctOAmW_NyyhsVmGFejKgQGz2LtR02RZlCkcWfptMKgWgHEFhH6gPa7UUTQVkCJlklN_ZdWm9o1fIZB1g5Aph16gVnbjj7i7Gt3dJiVeXbCPVysSmji7wwB0B82O252ck3/s640/stats.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few stats</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Because the distance was off, so were the splits. I wasn't really watching them anyway and figured I'd run the race between 3 and 3 1/2 hours.....and that is exactly what I did.</span></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjooMH3Y0dOqsb0CaTBuL5JV-FavihbqZ8a4wxV7x6sXMRSNfuMOfV-auGtqi_Y-X6VAdMnP6gNNSuVhIh5AQJ0phxN8wmkItgqGtd63FVl2j3gh4qjqMoytEUJsNBM0WXJurza4zY6LJws/s1600/splits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="624" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjooMH3Y0dOqsb0CaTBuL5JV-FavihbqZ8a4wxV7x6sXMRSNfuMOfV-auGtqi_Y-X6VAdMnP6gNNSuVhIh5AQJ0phxN8wmkItgqGtd63FVl2j3gh4qjqMoytEUJsNBM0WXJurza4zY6LJws/s640/splits.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Splits</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Here's a look at the elevation below. Kind of hard to tell but not any super large hills but lots and lots of rollers for sure.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbg_ESY3992dbyBwjFbV2J1QeVk9BNBHIALcgutJJW_AdMNMdZ2YhRX3_9P5BcG_usWHK2GEf_w38VDap_bl21jP4zOqwKFDenK5Xp_yFbv4njF1XEw8OrcmqKLvjA0MUqXwXxJxHfMxWH/s1600/elevation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbg_ESY3992dbyBwjFbV2J1QeVk9BNBHIALcgutJJW_AdMNMdZ2YhRX3_9P5BcG_usWHK2GEf_w38VDap_bl21jP4zOqwKFDenK5Xp_yFbv4njF1XEw8OrcmqKLvjA0MUqXwXxJxHfMxWH/s640/elevation.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elevation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">As you can see from the map, there are lots of twists and turns involved with the race. The course is located at Highland Recreation area and its on the entire mountain bike trail consisting of A, B, C, and D loops. The course did an excellent job having volunteers tell us where to go as well as good signage to keep us on track. There is no way you could have gotten lost out there today.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLgIcLfymdYgJFw9A8tFz8UALzuSLD0G9I4KPV02lTOBrIW_d8Lw04ZzT66BJiDdsTmBQKA1eYaMPZ7IMJfMUae2CcquHHRZl_LHaI76xl3eiFJvTnsQQltO2PTEKrF4AYLN5cHv4VsL-c/s1600/map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLgIcLfymdYgJFw9A8tFz8UALzuSLD0G9I4KPV02lTOBrIW_d8Lw04ZzT66BJiDdsTmBQKA1eYaMPZ7IMJfMUae2CcquHHRZl_LHaI76xl3eiFJvTnsQQltO2PTEKrF4AYLN5cHv4VsL-c/s640/map.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map of course</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">As mentioned, it seemed like we were always climbing pretty much from the start of the race.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQoHiHH9r7coDeVHJlwIOrqgl-lCgKT3P0pQoTfvz79FLaPU01SIejWZbJiSGU0PJ2wU5oEwG_98zTyBTeEA7Lgeu1W1xGGvxfnOJ0VxkNidp1b6uY8HHHxYAv3nSuj-mmvnl5VA1WSDJf/s1600/IMG_7171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQoHiHH9r7coDeVHJlwIOrqgl-lCgKT3P0pQoTfvz79FLaPU01SIejWZbJiSGU0PJ2wU5oEwG_98zTyBTeEA7Lgeu1W1xGGvxfnOJ0VxkNidp1b6uY8HHHxYAv3nSuj-mmvnl5VA1WSDJf/s640/IMG_7171.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Climbing pretty quick</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Dave started with us but finished quite a bit ahead of us. We were enjoying ourselves the entire way. It's really a very beautiful area out there.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJu4xbFxJWFO89c_8o83BgczVW63yrSIsUXY0aanXh1fVpvNtOCi6M1C2Dy-f49gOjvHQHP6Zr9KRQM1x6Q8fTbZU8oHsTvh35C80gmtzM3ibVLMVCr5Wl3YFjxxBCQukPO-yZXFS9Be2/s1600/IMG_7176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJu4xbFxJWFO89c_8o83BgczVW63yrSIsUXY0aanXh1fVpvNtOCi6M1C2Dy-f49gOjvHQHP6Zr9KRQM1x6Q8fTbZU8oHsTvh35C80gmtzM3ibVLMVCr5Wl3YFjxxBCQukPO-yZXFS9Be2/s640/IMG_7176.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few switchbacks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The entire course is made up of single track which makes for a really good course.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVl5pYTjj6hXEtMAWZO4Nn91zfc10YF7MOH2nVRegrHEtHEv3sHxaMm0NNoSH-rLRoNCfwqvmTHlmWDHzwNDQt1MDupgmsMh3uSrz5DxfeVfWHc3i7Ohyv27QUXk-GkWOtdSx513zJkrjA/s1600/IMG_7177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVl5pYTjj6hXEtMAWZO4Nn91zfc10YF7MOH2nVRegrHEtHEv3sHxaMm0NNoSH-rLRoNCfwqvmTHlmWDHzwNDQt1MDupgmsMh3uSrz5DxfeVfWHc3i7Ohyv27QUXk-GkWOtdSx513zJkrjA/s640/IMG_7177.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dave running with us for awhile</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
No recent rain so things were very dry as well as the area drains pretty well too.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjCAAbqCil_QCftIJhLYOpTUeeeJ0CBmbH64xVdABSvlVX9pdM80lZQiROPlZ4UReO3S80XMegtzRj1Fk8l10aDgxH4zASA7w1w4PSUYqp7a33drxUx2MhpPCR54tFGJx6G93026z6dKmk/s1600/IMG_7178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjCAAbqCil_QCftIJhLYOpTUeeeJ0CBmbH64xVdABSvlVX9pdM80lZQiROPlZ4UReO3S80XMegtzRj1Fk8l10aDgxH4zASA7w1w4PSUYqp7a33drxUx2MhpPCR54tFGJx6G93026z6dKmk/s640/IMG_7178.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All single track course</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was a little crowded to start things off as it normally is for trail races but I didn't feel there were too many people out there at all. In fact, I think they could have had many more if they wanted.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDj27xo-xucW0JB0QKXwumAa9r9Vzu4FgvAZL5aUO0LAaB30SL05VA2BLdfr9Hh1sfYatkvBjRw30Yt9n66sm1SUIOqnVvMkFzL7qAX-wt9ylQO60KJPAOuqwIRrfnn7j383WGtYHai54m/s1600/IMG_7185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDj27xo-xucW0JB0QKXwumAa9r9Vzu4FgvAZL5aUO0LAaB30SL05VA2BLdfr9Hh1sfYatkvBjRw30Yt9n66sm1SUIOqnVvMkFzL7qAX-wt9ylQO60KJPAOuqwIRrfnn7j383WGtYHai54m/s640/IMG_7185.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The downhill was fun!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Ed was having some fun out there today. I would NOT recommend running and turning around at the same time on trails though. You might be eating dirt. He's a professional though and didn't fall.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUW2E1HzAF-9Ri21s0tNALH0aqZLaAsH5p8JG5ogGEb3w8Qvblf_m-b5QxhHrNIh_2rm4gykPQIHgZrMBH2MPiZd0N4U_Miq-Y_hNqWCo_8JBnaHItsx53MuWafzvPGpzvij8sGAVD8JhN/s1600/IMG_7187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUW2E1HzAF-9Ri21s0tNALH0aqZLaAsH5p8JG5ogGEb3w8Qvblf_m-b5QxhHrNIh_2rm4gykPQIHgZrMBH2MPiZd0N4U_Miq-Y_hNqWCo_8JBnaHItsx53MuWafzvPGpzvij8sGAVD8JhN/s640/IMG_7187.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ed showing off. Haha!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There was no shortage of hills on the course so keep that in mind. It's one of the tougher trails in the area in my opinion.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_DYIvZjUY1RhFk4Y43UdXJqs3JOCx9raQi4MG2FsSdDVpjXqO4f7am4qtEhSNaSA_cP6yRlqMhYDcpx1YYjs5rTnk26LxmYf_-ebSEkEKKSaHIbzK9kz73FDqbFQKKExpBsOb_1bW_U7/s1600/IMG_7189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_DYIvZjUY1RhFk4Y43UdXJqs3JOCx9raQi4MG2FsSdDVpjXqO4f7am4qtEhSNaSA_cP6yRlqMhYDcpx1YYjs5rTnk26LxmYf_-ebSEkEKKSaHIbzK9kz73FDqbFQKKExpBsOb_1bW_U7/s640/IMG_7189.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ed and Nikki climbing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There were plenty of fairly flat areas - well, maybe just more runnable hills that flat.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxkhEI1-hwZ9t4ZdY620qXLythejG7PjONxXy_07m6-p5yZhVyuMxJKTJvuZlP92ZtWOxojwDSl5JDOnDpMhcX5k4ZaV5d2qfmg1gmmoubf-hI4xKeu9cVEaRN8bpvaze0vtrtlgprZJe/s1600/IMG_7197.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxkhEI1-hwZ9t4ZdY620qXLythejG7PjONxXy_07m6-p5yZhVyuMxJKTJvuZlP92ZtWOxojwDSl5JDOnDpMhcX5k4ZaV5d2qfmg1gmmoubf-hI4xKeu9cVEaRN8bpvaze0vtrtlgprZJe/s640/IMG_7197.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great day to be out on the trails</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEnFr3sSjwcZ0G3bXMG7EAFwuzUHCUBHFJYpNoR740Ot-zcM0FnsC1Fw_-TiI4YdgIrkE_FIinVabOPpIF_4BJEOtxYnjD77s0W4Uv3nXTvZCVXtCvZq0N0Mtu3tTR_Xswnlk6Ch6jcdPy/s1600/IMG_7222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEnFr3sSjwcZ0G3bXMG7EAFwuzUHCUBHFJYpNoR740Ot-zcM0FnsC1Fw_-TiI4YdgIrkE_FIinVabOPpIF_4BJEOtxYnjD77s0W4Uv3nXTvZCVXtCvZq0N0Mtu3tTR_Xswnlk6Ch6jcdPy/s640/IMG_7222.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cindy posing near an aid station</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Of course, as we were getting closer to the finish, I was ready to be done. It's not like I'm running these kinds of distances all the time unless I'm training for a marathon or 50k. I happen to be training for a 50k in August in Marquette and this fit in well with how my plan has been going. I just want to get to Marquette healthy.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHi4gWj8GevKnNkeCbZVTgAuYSOQi_eyv_F4uZqqLjRx85yqi1XH-dKaDMXj4CkGZ1KKn5uebR_zQgn81moQQ7bQYBHahOD-dpB8enok057O7h46_s1SD8sOWE46Ol0EyQCm1O0y47dfft/s1600/IMG_7227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHi4gWj8GevKnNkeCbZVTgAuYSOQi_eyv_F4uZqqLjRx85yqi1XH-dKaDMXj4CkGZ1KKn5uebR_zQgn81moQQ7bQYBHahOD-dpB8enok057O7h46_s1SD8sOWE46Ol0EyQCm1O0y47dfft/s640/IMG_7227.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jeff and Ed working the trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We even had time to have some fun on the trails. Haha. I think Cindy is happy on the trails, don't you think?<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhEsQpgPwgQ4er1XltErn7klcoj0AOwhsoLii3yvEd4oDkb6pJRBOiLmsTiitJD6ybBjiADyqDJNVbzO3WMIrqoewELDA_GW0YbsSIYTDD3HrZ4pTm04GPh_a3_34P3_IAMBuBRbuM_z4A/s1600/IMG_7231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhEsQpgPwgQ4er1XltErn7klcoj0AOwhsoLii3yvEd4oDkb6pJRBOiLmsTiitJD6ybBjiADyqDJNVbzO3WMIrqoewELDA_GW0YbsSIYTDD3HrZ4pTm04GPh_a3_34P3_IAMBuBRbuM_z4A/s640/IMG_7231.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little fun</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Plenty of downhills as well with lots and lots of rocks and roots to jump over. The course is quite technical.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYGxIbIday65URCRc2hkt6lx6qG7Ql1tJL96xrKap6ip7ZF1gW0a7wkQXziJnsVO6n1Vqn5KP2vyATFBzMUvA32tumIrjzk1E_t3oDfEIwcCaclzra6OiBCKkcO1QbZjAE0F9SSZ8eYDFf/s1600/IMG_7232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYGxIbIday65URCRc2hkt6lx6qG7Ql1tJL96xrKap6ip7ZF1gW0a7wkQXziJnsVO6n1Vqn5KP2vyATFBzMUvA32tumIrjzk1E_t3oDfEIwcCaclzra6OiBCKkcO1QbZjAE0F9SSZ8eYDFf/s640/IMG_7232.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of roots and rocks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUVJs0BKz-MUaK53Wxme-8VbeH5kJYTY-Vvl9BJ9O3hx2GP8uT7Uq8TVxWvvmn-MIh64C1B7KfBeuHUEgiCFZ-Fgq3G_xR2FxVGRtr7vq0IPVNSoXqgAXtqfgiS3-Jh2x37DKLNa-nD0QG/s1600/IMG_7236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUVJs0BKz-MUaK53Wxme-8VbeH5kJYTY-Vvl9BJ9O3hx2GP8uT7Uq8TVxWvvmn-MIh64C1B7KfBeuHUEgiCFZ-Fgq3G_xR2FxVGRtr7vq0IPVNSoXqgAXtqfgiS3-Jh2x37DKLNa-nD0QG/s640/IMG_7236.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little speed on the flats</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I pretty much hung with Ed, Jeff and Cindy the entire race and helped make the time fly on the course.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY4Gz4F77Nbw-RDQ6R7_qzwOaY_3ECXKFm5GoLuraq2RSzg1Ldjq5RbNfIO48Ucs46fydMxQy9dJm7xUAPpd1BVrmREhpNJxZ_EP6aMGiku5ulVxGBWPTUxesSTMbrlYL_2thC2ZClbL7H/s1600/IMG_7261.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY4Gz4F77Nbw-RDQ6R7_qzwOaY_3ECXKFm5GoLuraq2RSzg1Ldjq5RbNfIO48Ucs46fydMxQy9dJm7xUAPpd1BVrmREhpNJxZ_EP6aMGiku5ulVxGBWPTUxesSTMbrlYL_2thC2ZClbL7H/s640/IMG_7261.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost there</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi38iOZ_79FZ1OvyI2W2XoPbx5pWZe6-qV-Are8bkKw7FROUIhW6-BhCZxZ0_lu54_M7NExKsx1uWWpDMAn-0AXaGaW28ifQfPdSCPZpoYi_gO8DZrwf03HkGjmXep5Jq54BImq_3ZTc90/s1600/IMG_7293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi38iOZ_79FZ1OvyI2W2XoPbx5pWZe6-qV-Are8bkKw7FROUIhW6-BhCZxZ0_lu54_M7NExKsx1uWWpDMAn-0AXaGaW28ifQfPdSCPZpoYi_gO8DZrwf03HkGjmXep5Jq54BImq_3ZTc90/s640/IMG_7293.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of climbing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The weather was absolutely perfect. It was not too cold and it was not too hot being about 50 degrees to start. I wore a long sleeve tech shirt and seemed to be perfect for me.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmpQIG9JB9yvxtxz5VN4OLBeZSLkCnoh8DUL1PBj9pF3fMxsPa71PELeQC1FrT2oDQb0SWwuW1IgAdkn-q__UFPDBNQFbWG1l5Uocm_o-_Xl7noIwLFTqcY6P6fSDj_hh_WUhY5zc1Si_/s1600/IMG_7300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmpQIG9JB9yvxtxz5VN4OLBeZSLkCnoh8DUL1PBj9pF3fMxsPa71PELeQC1FrT2oDQb0SWwuW1IgAdkn-q__UFPDBNQFbWG1l5Uocm_o-_Xl7noIwLFTqcY6P6fSDj_hh_WUhY5zc1Si_/s640/IMG_7300.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sun even came out today</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyX8Ttb-8KpH8OTKE_eb5aGb7L0hatQPxPlMnGNVNlUOtV8XhN2Om64U_aYcMwgnbPw0epm3Jxr1H6ssTw5nY-LUC9T8llPYz-YRtqQEwKz9YGQmj1_CYXt-6lAW5Up7lAMaQCzBhEqZ_D/s1600/IMG_7321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyX8Ttb-8KpH8OTKE_eb5aGb7L0hatQPxPlMnGNVNlUOtV8XhN2Om64U_aYcMwgnbPw0epm3Jxr1H6ssTw5nY-LUC9T8llPYz-YRtqQEwKz9YGQmj1_CYXt-6lAW5Up7lAMaQCzBhEqZ_D/s640/IMG_7321.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last big climb</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As we neared the finish line, we sped up a little as we heard the music. As we turned the corner to finish, the crowd went crazy. Pretty awesome considering we were some of the last runners off the course. Got to love the trail running community.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHVEAsRtMD14CHcl2bee7DhsEPKP_GLYdCiA82ViuJvTD6zs8NTDLQ9IWkpfLn2HBig464uD1X-_vESr5u7RFQtS7mjsJSp0r23bibU36jzxZtGylDzvPgUMN9BmyVaqToSJwROAlPeEsF/s1600/IMG_7326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHVEAsRtMD14CHcl2bee7DhsEPKP_GLYdCiA82ViuJvTD6zs8NTDLQ9IWkpfLn2HBig464uD1X-_vESr5u7RFQtS7mjsJSp0r23bibU36jzxZtGylDzvPgUMN9BmyVaqToSJwROAlPeEsF/s640/IMG_7326.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Right near the end</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b><u>Aid Stations</u></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">There were several aid stations all stocked with water, oranges, GU, and fig newtons. The course was also filling water bottles where needed. Frankly, they could probably just go cupless since most people carry water with them.</span></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-PWr5Rh0rgp3bURW8PiOeXwZRyoDPelBILSmwTJ542R_Zn00skXMtvSaj_eHLeYWwNfesufY_VPUoGdRhAfwq6RG8BGcsTYRTZZrmP7JiFlqUAAZPncsYS1Ks2gUWrS_b_NIzH8Ij0k6J/s1600/IMG_7220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-PWr5Rh0rgp3bURW8PiOeXwZRyoDPelBILSmwTJ542R_Zn00skXMtvSaj_eHLeYWwNfesufY_VPUoGdRhAfwq6RG8BGcsTYRTZZrmP7JiFlqUAAZPncsYS1Ks2gUWrS_b_NIzH8Ij0k6J/s640/IMG_7220.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great aid stations</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The volunteers did a great job helping us as we hit each aid station. Plenty of aid stations and they felt perfectly spaced.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_z3jYhbB0ukyflor8H_fBoVkBXwfsnPLVr44psNgCFIkxqmK5Y8w1_DvlxfAXXpVTexd79Ht6TIgIhj7-nTbEs_dEAniSjmHX6JE948EbxCqMoNb4rKbAP3wuTdnArvw1a43KYAxMYxqG/s1600/IMG_7223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_z3jYhbB0ukyflor8H_fBoVkBXwfsnPLVr44psNgCFIkxqmK5Y8w1_DvlxfAXXpVTexd79Ht6TIgIhj7-nTbEs_dEAniSjmHX6JE948EbxCqMoNb4rKbAP3wuTdnArvw1a43KYAxMYxqG/s640/IMG_7223.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Volunteers were awesome</td></tr>
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<b style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><u>Finish Area</u></b><br />
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">The finish area was the same place as the start. It had plenty of space to hang out after the race.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFuvvPyyMEUavK8-szh7svTytWCLZRqIuNrjKHkvkSSzImElQh3kBWLlhxjl2Q2bVfm8bhWoHfLyXvw2FJZO477b4oCDMEha-TiAkihKoRWeH7fSUC9xowT3iFAbFkqrgE3c6ex6VYVmek/s1600/IMG_7338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFuvvPyyMEUavK8-szh7svTytWCLZRqIuNrjKHkvkSSzImElQh3kBWLlhxjl2Q2bVfm8bhWoHfLyXvw2FJZO477b4oCDMEha-TiAkihKoRWeH7fSUC9xowT3iFAbFkqrgE3c6ex6VYVmek/s640/IMG_7338.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />Finish line (and start) </td></tr>
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Most of the runners hung out to eat and drink beer. One of the sponsors had beer samples but you could also bring your own beer as well. The food was fantastic and I have to say that it was probably one of the best race parties after a race. The crowd was very welcoming and we got a great meal after the race. I can only think of a couple races that ever put on a full meal for the runners and it's mostly after a full marathon or longer. The finish line food alone would bring me back for another year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYH1Mku4Mjj6ksafReQhyphenhyphen9tcCl0CjhdOrQ9of4_1J42og-euFZ_t49B3aw-2XDR8Bfk1sWHZ23SQFtVw5KKojbm4t_M8djCnYPNx-lW-ZMSyP9Qv6mcaEBcdHVepa5uXYFimdClH2hQ08/s1600/IMG_7343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYH1Mku4Mjj6ksafReQhyphenhyphen9tcCl0CjhdOrQ9of4_1J42og-euFZ_t49B3aw-2XDR8Bfk1sWHZ23SQFtVw5KKojbm4t_M8djCnYPNx-lW-ZMSyP9Qv6mcaEBcdHVepa5uXYFimdClH2hQ08/s640/IMG_7343.jpg" width="620" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I got to meet Cooper</td></tr>
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I also got to play with Cooper, Dave's new puppy, who had lots of energy. We even saw some horses come through the area since there are horse trails back there too. As you can see from the crowd, many runners brought chairs to sit and eat and socialize.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRXvYofA5lnpVmwvHmgeoYX26z3rBsADY36aMDPab5MTDQw9HQ0s6bumX02Z5gR57NCm466R-Aj8n9DGNC2QAPkiPGG6GLW3YYO4XgBiGI8vL1bxfudiIbonn1eK1x_E1u_b_J6vlciMVS/s1600/IMG_7345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRXvYofA5lnpVmwvHmgeoYX26z3rBsADY36aMDPab5MTDQw9HQ0s6bumX02Z5gR57NCm466R-Aj8n9DGNC2QAPkiPGG6GLW3YYO4XgBiGI8vL1bxfudiIbonn1eK1x_E1u_b_J6vlciMVS/s640/IMG_7345.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few horseback riders came through</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><u>Amenities</u></b><br />
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">For your race entry, you received a well marked and timed course with aid stations and great volunteers. You received a cool custom bib with your name personalized on it.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLPUIxpyb9YaBpTt5tIzTfKYr3ZCpnnJqJJnWDCL7Nv3h0tLWxb26_jJtnRe_AHhIyvF7fUrMH5JoFfimPa26vH9W5foUzqzXDjpNNpj9TPgXJ2mHKpEqHmfrfTYRWFFCs7A7fxbg6ksUQ/s1600/DSC_0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLPUIxpyb9YaBpTt5tIzTfKYr3ZCpnnJqJJnWDCL7Nv3h0tLWxb26_jJtnRe_AHhIyvF7fUrMH5JoFfimPa26vH9W5foUzqzXDjpNNpj9TPgXJ2mHKpEqHmfrfTYRWFFCs7A7fxbg6ksUQ/s640/DSC_0011.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Custom bib</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">The race packet had all kinds of stuff in it including a Trail Runner magazine, a deerfly patch which will come in handy soon on the trails as well as several coupons. There is even a $20 off coupon for the Hungerford Trail races coming up in September which I may run!</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXptjsAMlbwBYcfa7owr733JvsCZ_6ES5BnqH9z9Mkrawj0WMf1lCTQBJGS9yUYr1DCSpf-hPaz8rGtRetuMV8lF9sKzgcOi7gAZ4ebB5P2wVfUQsgsmbJlgej9OaXNttQ5JB8CX03n81v/s1600/DSC_0012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXptjsAMlbwBYcfa7owr733JvsCZ_6ES5BnqH9z9Mkrawj0WMf1lCTQBJGS9yUYr1DCSpf-hPaz8rGtRetuMV8lF9sKzgcOi7gAZ4ebB5P2wVfUQsgsmbJlgej9OaXNttQ5JB8CX03n81v/s640/DSC_0012.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race packet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If you finished the race, you also received a finishers glass with the race logo on it.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLwzpYCRt_qprOEU3n2czUcehZH4qqhkYCyuOswalongxP6XlePIcvhyphenhyphenrcAwxbipWjQo74pDEtAeG1w5uGp4rngL9_me8D0ZPQz-7iNfD6KyRkdILpt7xzm4Pu_JGt81OJNr7NqyNpeDDa/s1600/DSC_0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLwzpYCRt_qprOEU3n2czUcehZH4qqhkYCyuOswalongxP6XlePIcvhyphenhyphenrcAwxbipWjQo74pDEtAeG1w5uGp4rngL9_me8D0ZPQz-7iNfD6KyRkdILpt7xzm4Pu_JGt81OJNr7NqyNpeDDa/s640/DSC_0007.jpg" width="368" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finisher glass</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Everyone received a tech shirt as well and this appears to be a nice material and decent size so I'll definitely use it for training.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Plblrp4n76KmzoM0OrVGhPHzjRrFkggJ1u7RSjB3FYpXR0Jz6KgdN2Ul8vJiJ2bSzwqOr7SM4L44PacjTsNbLVagZx3PGa0dscwtTbFP9fmfdxCnw8UKRwDKj-_bIGs2BkpDwPZLwHmo/s1600/DSC_0006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Plblrp4n76KmzoM0OrVGhPHzjRrFkggJ1u7RSjB3FYpXR0Jz6KgdN2Ul8vJiJ2bSzwqOr7SM4L44PacjTsNbLVagZx3PGa0dscwtTbFP9fmfdxCnw8UKRwDKj-_bIGs2BkpDwPZLwHmo/s640/DSC_0006.jpg" width="550" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tech shirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The medals are an awesome design with their logo on the medal as well as a custom ribbon.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgMGPgjpSQqlrbzouOVZR7lZZc-6DHG-EHJ2N2WK-IJRH0jYSx2zjYjDxlGP64Jaqvky88nVW9Fqb4QEwMmVo0eH2-l7_FNAHzuFsh8YmRh78_9IARMSinJITwZvlzF6q4OI9O7cMh8oFQ/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgMGPgjpSQqlrbzouOVZR7lZZc-6DHG-EHJ2N2WK-IJRH0jYSx2zjYjDxlGP64Jaqvky88nVW9Fqb4QEwMmVo0eH2-l7_FNAHzuFsh8YmRh78_9IARMSinJITwZvlzF6q4OI9O7cMh8oFQ/s640/DSC_0010.JPG" width="574" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medal with custom ribbon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnAZ5QdRsaK_Sk4CVHDjZfbSqbEfuVAjzSJBA4rrWpas1GZpwtI1Ae_1kGvW5SBaBoAesVeqGmHLgwAPj8O6IJZnOWsmIjZtQl86rugzrmhvPWUYN-nFGC_GAdweZLkjCa-Nw3F51TZ4oh/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="630" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnAZ5QdRsaK_Sk4CVHDjZfbSqbEfuVAjzSJBA4rrWpas1GZpwtI1Ae_1kGvW5SBaBoAesVeqGmHLgwAPj8O6IJZnOWsmIjZtQl86rugzrmhvPWUYN-nFGC_GAdweZLkjCa-Nw3F51TZ4oh/s640/DSC_0008.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medal close up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I really like how they did the medal. There is no sponsors on the front of the medal, however, they had the sponsor, River's Edge Brewing Co, on the back part. What a great idea! It's nice to see medals and shirts that don't have all kinds of sponsors all over them. I realize they need to do this but I feel that it was very well done on this and shirt and glass.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTgKhHRKVQIZQ8engRTJ26S-hnjti6DuJc-pKhNqBz9haKBGNe03sy9BiWi1C980Ci7_qcWEGVV7_Y5YL-8W750CN0IPTPgw3nf1eOHNzEP0HnnUaLnz5cQq8ZUsFUKp40gFq52P_nHnF/s1600/DSC_0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTgKhHRKVQIZQ8engRTJ26S-hnjti6DuJc-pKhNqBz9haKBGNe03sy9BiWi1C980Ci7_qcWEGVV7_Y5YL-8W750CN0IPTPgw3nf1eOHNzEP0HnnUaLnz5cQq8ZUsFUKp40gFq52P_nHnF/s640/DSC_0009.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back of medal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><u>Organization</u></b><br />
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">The company did a great job with organization. The website was clear with questions. The race sent out emails with information for runners instructions. The race had a Facebook page and you could ask questions or get updated information on it. The start and finish area was perfect size with plenty of room to move around. The parking was a little tight but it wasn't crazy plus cars cleared out, I'm sure, after the 7 mile race was finished too. The course was well marked and the volunteers did an excellent job.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><u>Overall</u></b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">While I just met the race director, DJ, today, you can certainly tell that he puts his heart and soul into this race. It's clear that he is a runner and most of the volunteers are runners and they know what runners want and followed through on those things at the race. I'm sure I'll be back again for this one. I'd highly recommend you sign up next year for it. An outstanding trail race and nice to see a race with a different kind of distance and still plenty of challenge. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnCmdIqbJUPMdLUxFYSl2SSyYUUjstQn5a-270OsbweOT6Wssa2Pdbygd6yD6JNXSfHJXveG7cfZbXaPGs2b2qVtubS7AVVlpOazUD-zU8NnefG8_Qs7gUfvZCk7gwMCyiZQtkX5Jug6_M/s1600/IMG_7352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnCmdIqbJUPMdLUxFYSl2SSyYUUjstQn5a-270OsbweOT6Wssa2Pdbygd6yD6JNXSfHJXveG7cfZbXaPGs2b2qVtubS7AVVlpOazUD-zU8NnefG8_Qs7gUfvZCk7gwMCyiZQtkX5Jug6_M/s640/IMG_7352.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm tired - happy to be finished!</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;">Disclosure: I paid for this race entry with my own funds. All opinions are my own.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></span></span>Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-2790755050362859132017-05-14T16:33:00.003-04:002017-05-14T16:33:58.585-04:00No Wimps / Road Ends 5 Mile Trail Run race review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiRgnr-9GnLkK3M2PwAHMvGnMNCAfwcQpFS-ElMLmcqbcWbGIFdEWqrGQYFh3apdkGwQyhCvJrYrpYhAzJyEbrw40N_RHaK0oLyFUMEkocSuMz0jRlE5YaSxbAMU6xMTl2fkowx5bcK_01/s1600/trail.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiRgnr-9GnLkK3M2PwAHMvGnMNCAfwcQpFS-ElMLmcqbcWbGIFdEWqrGQYFh3apdkGwQyhCvJrYrpYhAzJyEbrw40N_RHaK0oLyFUMEkocSuMz0jRlE5YaSxbAMU6xMTl2fkowx5bcK_01/s640/trail.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><strong style="background-color: white; color: #323232;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Short Version</span></strong> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232;">Finished in 52:45 (official time); new PR since this was my first 5 mile race</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232;">Overall Place: 108/399</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232;">Men 40-49: 15/32</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232;">Men Overall: 79/171</span>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Half Marathon #46 </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232;">Timed race #123</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #323232; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232;"></span><span style="color: #323232; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">This was my fourth time running the Trail half marathon but I've never run the 5 mile race. Poto trails are about 70 miles from me so it's hard to go back there twice in a weekend but I had a great time. I always love running the trail half and the five mile was a nice course as well and quite hilly. Actually both races are pretty hilly but loads of fun! This year the race had something called No Wimps Jr. Challenge which is running the half on Saturday and the 5 mile on Sunday. If you have not run these before, they are worth checking out.</span></span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232;">------------------------------------------</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="background-color: white; color: #323232;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></strong></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232;"></span><strong style="background-color: white; color: #323232;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Long Version</span></strong>
<strong style="background-color: white; color: #323232;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Registration/Packet Pickup/Start Area</span></strong> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Registration is very easy with Running Fit as they always have their own websites for each race and a place to register. This year I was lucky enough to get two free bibs from some runners that could not run the races and just didn't want their bib to go to waste. I transferred my name to them and ran both races. It was just an email getting permission from the runners and a call to Running Fit to have them transfer the races to me. Very easy.
When I got to packet pickup on Saturday, they had a place for No Wimps people to pick up their bibs and shirts by last name and took minutes to get. We did have to sign a release form prior to getting our packet too. I don't remember doing this for their past events? Usually you just click a button online but this time we filled out a form with emergency information as well.
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLTnucl0RkQzi5CiP9fWLBOrAMTqrYG79j1jlojLClh051JjqpB1LV5j4zS8G-geV5n72B2y-Vvt3q-v1tYAU91W3bNlPzZz6znXMNdLG1cwg1Enxee04UAQFXclp5EatI2z6pYycF_NRB/s1600/P1060522.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLTnucl0RkQzi5CiP9fWLBOrAMTqrYG79j1jlojLClh051JjqpB1LV5j4zS8G-geV5n72B2y-Vvt3q-v1tYAU91W3bNlPzZz6znXMNdLG1cwg1Enxee04UAQFXclp5EatI2z6pYycF_NRB/s640/P1060522.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Packet pick up</span></td>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The start area is always well organized. They have the start/finish by the bathrooms and near the lake. They have the perfect place to set up and it's been the same every year that I've run the race in the past. Why change something that works?</span>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1hRXCmqXWbsjvkKtnLxrfH1ldflyZnuiKG2S_gKu7a_h3B6sAaBcNXzxIDI9bpxi7nvPZ4IznAVaHeR-5oJJrc0KnsOq3LGVAc01Ub-3oEaie_iSAqOaDfCXxnkZcx54j8bGkf_UVFZf/s1600/P1060527.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1hRXCmqXWbsjvkKtnLxrfH1ldflyZnuiKG2S_gKu7a_h3B6sAaBcNXzxIDI9bpxi7nvPZ4IznAVaHeR-5oJJrc0KnsOq3LGVAc01Ub-3oEaie_iSAqOaDfCXxnkZcx54j8bGkf_UVFZf/s640/P1060527.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Start area</span></td>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I stayed in my car mostly before the race but did come out and talk to a few people I knew before each race. It was a bit chilly out but perfect temperatures for the race. I went out in the second or third wave(I think) for both races. You can see I got to start in the front for the five mile race.</span>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL41uWTDR6BgwL1Pp_pHHMZJ_GGkYwnHYgw05HWnpmVze5pgyVZTkrCNnnb6dyQ6kSsrFiHh2sEu0iqzPDmbifJNf8RstGrdXV4AoKsDt8gQWRKE58RHGK8XUzbaKcIuqbhnE0grFKamqz/s1600/P1060528.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL41uWTDR6BgwL1Pp_pHHMZJ_GGkYwnHYgw05HWnpmVze5pgyVZTkrCNnnb6dyQ6kSsrFiHh2sEu0iqzPDmbifJNf8RstGrdXV4AoKsDt8gQWRKE58RHGK8XUzbaKcIuqbhnE0grFKamqz/s640/P1060528.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">At the front of my wave</span></td>
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There were still lots of people behind me as well. All pictures are from the 5 mile race as I've already done past reviews on the half marathon and you can find them on the blog if interested under the Race Reviews tab.
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihCtTEhPzuRsMB1xJvD9viem_-Y4mZ8hWgZQbK5k5qmSTjwBFRkIW0uebtHtboGsDXP7ecTWBZLR11yta_a89J6IT7plbs8tBcKXjfkYQ9EllpyeG8tmfKEZGMZyWNCstmALiqy3Gvqr9F/s1600/P1060525.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihCtTEhPzuRsMB1xJvD9viem_-Y4mZ8hWgZQbK5k5qmSTjwBFRkIW0uebtHtboGsDXP7ecTWBZLR11yta_a89J6IT7plbs8tBcKXjfkYQ9EllpyeG8tmfKEZGMZyWNCstmALiqy3Gvqr9F/s640/P1060525.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">People behind me ready to race!</span></td>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232;">
<span style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Course</span></span> </span><br />
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The course for the five mile was really fun although a little bit taxing considering I ran a half marathon the day before. There were certainly some hills to run on this course. I showed 50+ stories of climbing and over 423 feet of elevation gain on my Garmin! Yeah, it's hilly!</span></span>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoCkqGA1MxqzGC51zv7FqtW2XAIgLKDxD61cHUjHwt83kcOTp-m7eodEtieihj658sTTZbnQpsV8bw5rBWJywlz4w-X0S9x8FYmQeNf28Bk4vX0TBTMT-2IV7FyAoTtd-1PBrw_IY_kHKF/s1600/5mileeleation.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="84" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoCkqGA1MxqzGC51zv7FqtW2XAIgLKDxD61cHUjHwt83kcOTp-m7eodEtieihj658sTTZbnQpsV8bw5rBWJywlz4w-X0S9x8FYmQeNf28Bk4vX0TBTMT-2IV7FyAoTtd-1PBrw_IY_kHKF/s640/5mileeleation.jpg" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">5 mile elevation</span></td>
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As you can see below, I has some quicker miles in the middle when it wasn't so hilly!
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCzNRnD4ei696ewqQqUmnEBp4lEz5dtAkrCNGlxhf1V6mY9kAewJKCSzfXRCnmAZxZHVMFcPmYTZ0gO4agw8DTqU3rbHFLtNb4UFkS3KCUT8KxvM6v6EJ8cUcBhRKidWtQdMfQUxcTKOid/s1600/5milemap.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCzNRnD4ei696ewqQqUmnEBp4lEz5dtAkrCNGlxhf1V6mY9kAewJKCSzfXRCnmAZxZHVMFcPmYTZ0gO4agw8DTqU3rbHFLtNb4UFkS3KCUT8KxvM6v6EJ8cUcBhRKidWtQdMfQUxcTKOid/s640/5milemap.jpg" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">5 Mile map and splits</span></td>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #323232;">
</span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #323232;">The half marathon the day before also had plenty of hills to run including 1,148 feet of elevation gain. I can't remember how many stories the Garmin showed but I believe it was over 100!!!</span></span>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6tAiANHO0ttnNLZ9SRmpqvXJisxRmkRQJznrdUMSFd_J3NSo7v-xUxCgq0EofbfGyplC_SwiVqFbgQTNy9-GvSwQxVVjehT7exhTiJgtS-Tg23cuMXMK35g_XkioNQpXETG2VPsfWBAnf/s1600/halfelevation.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="98" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6tAiANHO0ttnNLZ9SRmpqvXJisxRmkRQJznrdUMSFd_J3NSo7v-xUxCgq0EofbfGyplC_SwiVqFbgQTNy9-GvSwQxVVjehT7exhTiJgtS-Tg23cuMXMK35g_XkioNQpXETG2VPsfWBAnf/s640/halfelevation.jpg" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Half elevation</span></td>
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<span style="color: #323232; font-family: 'arial' , 'tahoma' , 'helvetica' , 'freesans' , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">My goal for the half was just to have fun but still push myself a little. I didn't want to push too hard as my Hip Flexor had been giving me issues. Fortunately for both races, the hip was fine.</span></span>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikDYK39VKxcXwQF_NB3_eXUq5AnLjkIEbiJywIyRamfXauZwp-5y3SRZOJH-58BJPNDtZCGgIzdAftNv4L_L7DM761zWGAcNPk1IuU8Zfpy4TOmFF23kLLOYja5Bs5AsuCyE6lva0axaqW/s1600/halfmap.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikDYK39VKxcXwQF_NB3_eXUq5AnLjkIEbiJywIyRamfXauZwp-5y3SRZOJH-58BJPNDtZCGgIzdAftNv4L_L7DM761zWGAcNPk1IuU8Zfpy4TOmFF23kLLOYja5Bs5AsuCyE6lva0axaqW/s640/halfmap.jpg" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Half map and splits</span></td>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The five mile course starts off going into the parking lot to get to the trailhead.</span>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGyNGVk2iHDh3_TCZfPHJ9iq7-6zQ57-r0AKKA8fUaj1SKLXY4woqNVBjLrxgVWpvTlrqCge3I0BtN1iFsgJEX1HGv_9qRkChrA4ph61QHPagrG2VPm6WZ7C4BeVE4Ubfui3RDbGtdcmO0/s1600/P1060529.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGyNGVk2iHDh3_TCZfPHJ9iq7-6zQ57-r0AKKA8fUaj1SKLXY4woqNVBjLrxgVWpvTlrqCge3I0BtN1iFsgJEX1HGv_9qRkChrA4ph61QHPagrG2VPm6WZ7C4BeVE4Ubfui3RDbGtdcmO0/s640/P1060529.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">A little run though the parking lot</span></td>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We then head up to a large hill where as we make our way to the trails.
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9uPZLpkl-TGk12SlLjQWBMmFtNaK3cBn3qgt6KNofspqDs2Jg8cL3FwJx5niUBI_EEMU3MhJspsw2l5GN3wPonsCcmIyiiencIaaBtckYDSsh-UpGM3SaHlzi5icI2iz8VK86HuDSsoQi/s1600/P1060532.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9uPZLpkl-TGk12SlLjQWBMmFtNaK3cBn3qgt6KNofspqDs2Jg8cL3FwJx5niUBI_EEMU3MhJspsw2l5GN3wPonsCcmIyiiencIaaBtckYDSsh-UpGM3SaHlzi5icI2iz8VK86HuDSsoQi/s640/P1060532.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hills for breakfast</span></td>
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Before we get to the trails, there's a dirt road that we run as well. This helps clear out the trails somewhat but it was still fairly busy for the first few miles. I never ran alone the entire time.
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggu_es8pzf8ZY86keV1QA8lybO9zAsX8Wz141JhiocwVwPhiNR9EeYIwE8YmEOW3Ngnzwo9bVFMBsG8F_n3h067_eN0xS_brvH6Ls-Ap31wU4y3FxLn-A9su_FOowcCXB6MSXiCLlNf-uo/s1600/P1060538.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggu_es8pzf8ZY86keV1QA8lybO9zAsX8Wz141JhiocwVwPhiNR9EeYIwE8YmEOW3Ngnzwo9bVFMBsG8F_n3h067_eN0xS_brvH6Ls-Ap31wU4y3FxLn-A9su_FOowcCXB6MSXiCLlNf-uo/s640/P1060538.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Onto the dirt</span></td>
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Then the trails hit us. As you can see below, it was very hilly to start off but people were plugging along and still running up the hill.
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQCK_7o4cX6eOJvDCE94FBRJtUVliVByq4yc0eQVXu6wIHpJ8WNi_0jPtObm_DqKVxjqRheei8rKa_As2YwcGLFiIidO8b4o5tBJzb3Uwk-8UxTo1TrDygQF0rY3F_KkRThwI2Qh15X7Lr/s1600/P1060540.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQCK_7o4cX6eOJvDCE94FBRJtUVliVByq4yc0eQVXu6wIHpJ8WNi_0jPtObm_DqKVxjqRheei8rKa_As2YwcGLFiIidO8b4o5tBJzb3Uwk-8UxTo1TrDygQF0rY3F_KkRThwI2Qh15X7Lr/s640/P1060540.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Single track</span></td>
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It was nice coming to some flat parts where you could try and make up some time. If you have never been on the Poto trails, you need to get out there. They have some awesome trails there for sure!
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCw8OvxFNIoYxKrVl9WaBA0ORbvhBmsDYgASs0_hAuA4G0VvkVsL2_JLBF1BHHrfmABhTSLTIXbW1zlpcEixHtSztlUbtf69sq4GV8g4-O99N6E2oFDfOX3kc1TZYLAh6Va-SUrFZ8wlWH/s1600/P1060544.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="552" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCw8OvxFNIoYxKrVl9WaBA0ORbvhBmsDYgASs0_hAuA4G0VvkVsL2_JLBF1BHHrfmABhTSLTIXbW1zlpcEixHtSztlUbtf69sq4GV8g4-O99N6E2oFDfOX3kc1TZYLAh6Va-SUrFZ8wlWH/s640/P1060544.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Passing the water</span></td>
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There were many spots where you had some rollers too and made you continue to push to keep the same effort.
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitZyxtcDvVjZzbjCFhLsHLj_BvL72MS0O2Q2XI37tJ9CNSAG-3mrUCfjHyPqbsluNyXH4j3EKdVR2IWzL2lDbDe4WLwNIRIN_lWIwKPBM1xMQoQSMc5f5ODjT6fXAfYfjI-pxfCqJDVcLv/s1600/P1060547.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitZyxtcDvVjZzbjCFhLsHLj_BvL72MS0O2Q2XI37tJ9CNSAG-3mrUCfjHyPqbsluNyXH4j3EKdVR2IWzL2lDbDe4WLwNIRIN_lWIwKPBM1xMQoQSMc5f5ODjT6fXAfYfjI-pxfCqJDVcLv/s640/P1060547.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Not entirely hilly</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tbody>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2UCQZ8qwt9TfQJbbDcdYKa3PSRLNBXX8PbPrk2X-EkESFPNxgtVBk6mFVtxH5UHGNgEGhTEtn86CGlCGJzaxXckmakKm_3jX3HLk6e5LaJ-snIAzzyIPhFYqPYqvIO_hNww2qzx41nkYm/s1600/P1060550.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2UCQZ8qwt9TfQJbbDcdYKa3PSRLNBXX8PbPrk2X-EkESFPNxgtVBk6mFVtxH5UHGNgEGhTEtn86CGlCGJzaxXckmakKm_3jX3HLk6e5LaJ-snIAzzyIPhFYqPYqvIO_hNww2qzx41nkYm/s640/P1060550.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lots of rollers</span></td>
</tr>
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</table>
Below is just before where the largest hill is on the course and it's a doozy too! Most people walked it up.
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA9HZ6DNJqJ_5F6sK_8Vc4bu8CPLAGHNhHdueyW2duiKzcuuOOUT7BuiL-1z9lfly92eF9S9JIa-8hjlAzRXWpjS3oEmSbVz5Leul8W7JuoWdA2zXvZFw9lR9o53BQeRlboI0ICz5nnCNz/s1600/P1060553.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA9HZ6DNJqJ_5F6sK_8Vc4bu8CPLAGHNhHdueyW2duiKzcuuOOUT7BuiL-1z9lfly92eF9S9JIa-8hjlAzRXWpjS3oEmSbVz5Leul8W7JuoWdA2zXvZFw9lR9o53BQeRlboI0ICz5nnCNz/s640/P1060553.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">A big hill coming</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The course certainly didn't disappoint. It made me wish that I lived much closer to these trails so I could run them daily.
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-dtGTbUEu8QoQCTPq9e_1TKSopeA7_QHDANSWiQ7CrspAsNPXnVM85QibxMjdmpIgcJmcvO6A5TqWXBHO_vHV_Lsu71aTb9q933O-s5MBaub0qwt0aAiLUZbRUhdxvRCcyHArFjhUkyX2/s1600/P1060560.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-dtGTbUEu8QoQCTPq9e_1TKSopeA7_QHDANSWiQ7CrspAsNPXnVM85QibxMjdmpIgcJmcvO6A5TqWXBHO_vHV_Lsu71aTb9q933O-s5MBaub0qwt0aAiLUZbRUhdxvRCcyHArFjhUkyX2/s640/P1060560.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
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<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Still climbing</span></td>
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We also ran on a few wooden bridges. The one below is just before the finish. I love running over bridges!
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LzuYGZMr5k-vAeJcB4ZyhRuLeB2-dE3jdU2-zHUsWBiNPFwxb8SIING6EALf-dkquJ02XZ0LgTVdlUlwpMq4GpitKgaoXzUb88Gts9UE4CCJLGrzvoWzfdFhxI16dh4ElYE6Tt_J7w8l/s1600/P1060563.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LzuYGZMr5k-vAeJcB4ZyhRuLeB2-dE3jdU2-zHUsWBiNPFwxb8SIING6EALf-dkquJ02XZ0LgTVdlUlwpMq4GpitKgaoXzUb88Gts9UE4CCJLGrzvoWzfdFhxI16dh4ElYE6Tt_J7w8l/s640/P1060563.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
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<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Over the bridge</span></td>
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Given it was only 5 miles, before we knew it, the race was over! Frankly, I was happy to not be running a marathon or 50k (as these were option too today).
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYQZMHFEHt-chdKR9uhLQfoIsFhs6o_KPfSn2HuTUAzvk824irrscL0XSWxaPOb04-02mQooycuhsAUKoIXIOtzfQJO-IjGPMtPUT10v4hrjdYMGefiPrQQr0dGqEJmigaQ0kPtVg3Uwk/s1600/P1060567.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYQZMHFEHt-chdKR9uhLQfoIsFhs6o_KPfSn2HuTUAzvk824irrscL0XSWxaPOb04-02mQooycuhsAUKoIXIOtzfQJO-IjGPMtPUT10v4hrjdYMGefiPrQQr0dGqEJmigaQ0kPtVg3Uwk/s640/P1060567.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Finish!</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><strong style="color: #323232;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aid Stations</span></strong> </span><br />
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: 'arial' , 'tahoma' , 'helvetica' , 'freesans' , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The race had one aid station that was more than enough (for me anyway) for this distance. The volunteers were ready for us!</span></span>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2wmxOsvDUm4nXsevmH0o1rMWzZhgAIwJahHnd5nfh-0v2vTOdNmED897aC4rM9epP1G-e-3LoIny0u4cOuOX5dznb7KB3Z7VZfqkJb9YemEC6bsFGsvqmCuAm1oSOmUvtqOrNoN8YpUq/s1600/P1060549.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2wmxOsvDUm4nXsevmH0o1rMWzZhgAIwJahHnd5nfh-0v2vTOdNmED897aC4rM9epP1G-e-3LoIny0u4cOuOX5dznb7KB3Z7VZfqkJb9YemEC6bsFGsvqmCuAm1oSOmUvtqOrNoN8YpUq/s640/P1060549.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">One aid station</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #323232; font-family: 'arial' , 'tahoma' , 'helvetica' , 'freesans' , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">
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<span style="color: #323232; font-family: 'arial' , 'tahoma' , 'helvetica' , 'freesans' , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Finish Area</span></strong></span></span> </span><br />
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">The finish area is well organized, and not a surprise, given the number of years this races has been going as the park is a great place to set up for a race. The race had pretzels, bananas, cookies and oranges. Everything was under cover in case it rained.</span>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAa9O2zDOPH7kDosgckH23VtrZiv6bb9puSd3BVOi9se1bOTp5oFBcFXyQboVpH4mR5PimevIwuGz2DEcI3fYjZScrhd10EI8VHu2N7nwPH2GoA7JK4VZMUeSsgUSqTucP29OjOkLnL0w-/s1600/P1060569.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAa9O2zDOPH7kDosgckH23VtrZiv6bb9puSd3BVOi9se1bOTp5oFBcFXyQboVpH4mR5PimevIwuGz2DEcI3fYjZScrhd10EI8VHu2N7nwPH2GoA7JK4VZMUeSsgUSqTucP29OjOkLnL0w-/s640/P1060569.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Bananas, oranges, cookies and pretzels</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #323232; font-family: 'arial' , 'tahoma' , 'helvetica' , 'freesans' , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Amenities</span></strong></span></span> </span><br />
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">For your race entry, you received a timed race with bibs and a measured course. Since I did the No Wimps Jr race, I received a bib for each race. </span>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHNdlo-eT32W7MO7NHWUXPypBYxhkkdYkIO-wpK7Hq-ydgBR5p06hpE3FGMZOvXxV3ZuZ9ScCHUHOiW_qkWJS23k9O6G2IdufuGqRdx8K9gPK1oKiHTgAdAigejY_-o6NKWfi1saoc0j4M/s1600/DSC_0012.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHNdlo-eT32W7MO7NHWUXPypBYxhkkdYkIO-wpK7Hq-ydgBR5p06hpE3FGMZOvXxV3ZuZ9ScCHUHOiW_qkWJS23k9O6G2IdufuGqRdx8K9gPK1oKiHTgAdAigejY_-o6NKWfi1saoc0j4M/s640/DSC_0012.jpg" width="422" /></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Bibs</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #323232; font-family: 'arial' , 'tahoma' , 'helvetica' , 'freesans' , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">
</span></span>
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: small;">You also received a cotton shirt for the 5 mile and a tech shirt for the half marathon. I actually like getting cotton since I've got so many tech shirts.</span></span>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbb162j_R5uS3JHad31fPAGr8qeRenq8g2DPmz0_PTt9eeVhUrlmJu0-p230McwVPWV263l7E4QpNfUaT4frWMj4FWbBc-FZSkV9fl8jSFhVsSVKmNMy7at0XJpvfcNRk7ZwhwvPQJBjt6/s1600/DSC_0002.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbb162j_R5uS3JHad31fPAGr8qeRenq8g2DPmz0_PTt9eeVhUrlmJu0-p230McwVPWV263l7E4QpNfUaT4frWMj4FWbBc-FZSkV9fl8jSFhVsSVKmNMy7at0XJpvfcNRk7ZwhwvPQJBjt6/s640/DSC_0002.jpg" width="438" /></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Road Ends 5 mile shirt (cotton)</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #323232; font-family: 'arial' , 'tahoma' , 'helvetica' , 'freesans' , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">
</span></span>
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: 'arial' , 'tahoma' , 'helvetica' , 'freesans' , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">
</span></span>
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The tech shirts are a different brand so we will see how i like it. It's much better than the A4 tech shirts the race used to get that feel like garbage bags so anything is a good improvement.</span></span>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP5PXDwRoOH6Ufn9XIQ7LIeQMvy-RAgoOsK-GiwwwxLuMpAhUxc6c7yxT-WOWGvZy1SEbBJke8FcI8h74Kf-4onwm-xAFK1mp8XjzTBYIi3S7PpVib04JiV080iLQq_HAs_zh9y-IakeUx/s1600/DSC_0001.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP5PXDwRoOH6Ufn9XIQ7LIeQMvy-RAgoOsK-GiwwwxLuMpAhUxc6c7yxT-WOWGvZy1SEbBJke8FcI8h74Kf-4onwm-xAFK1mp8XjzTBYIi3S7PpVib04JiV080iLQq_HAs_zh9y-IakeUx/s640/DSC_0001.jpg" width="444" /></a></td>
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<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Trail Weekend shirt (Tech)</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #323232; font-family: 'arial' , 'tahoma' , 'helvetica' , 'freesans' , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">
</span></span>
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: small;">You get a medal for each race that you ran. If you ran the no wimps, you also received an extra medal for three medals total.</span></span>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfi9o-Y6PQieEvRcModZwxL7hQBZLwVQUxQLSS-NDe4V1W7Y9v0CqBjq6QLYnuDVfFAkKbDA7tlST9e-0GxkZbveZF1iriX287czokVeN4ixcVzCqZMvQx6nYEJpw3L8JoXliNBF6bAmfk/s1600/DSC_0007.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="540" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfi9o-Y6PQieEvRcModZwxL7hQBZLwVQUxQLSS-NDe4V1W7Y9v0CqBjq6QLYnuDVfFAkKbDA7tlST9e-0GxkZbveZF1iriX287czokVeN4ixcVzCqZMvQx6nYEJpw3L8JoXliNBF6bAmfk/s640/DSC_0007.jpg" width="640" /></a></td>
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<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Medals and ribbon</span></td></tr>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWLsaD2lCywWUMRfmlY5SfVL2R5x0dU1p_J3qdHI0Wnc5yxkJ9QIYPgTxmD5ldrAAuuuTVgB-2hSU3ZGtGObT-cb0Sd2PUYnzwXU_lg9zKcUrTufyU5lxzlNkcrvoTTzzYAW2F82kMJ9wI/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWLsaD2lCywWUMRfmlY5SfVL2R5x0dU1p_J3qdHI0Wnc5yxkJ9QIYPgTxmD5ldrAAuuuTVgB-2hSU3ZGtGObT-cb0Sd2PUYnzwXU_lg9zKcUrTufyU5lxzlNkcrvoTTzzYAW2F82kMJ9wI/s640/DSC_0008.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Close up</span></td>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #323232; font-family: 'arial' , 'tahoma' , 'helvetica' , 'freesans' , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">
</span></span>
<span style="color: #323232; font-family: 'arial' , 'tahoma' , 'helvetica' , 'freesans' , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Organization</span></strong></span></span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #323232; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Running Fit does an awesome job at their races. The course was well marked, the start/finish area was organized, the website had clear information. I got my bibs from transfers from two runners at the last minute and the races communicated well to get the transfer completed.</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #323232; font-family: 'arial' , 'tahoma' , 'helvetica' , 'freesans' , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Overall</span></strong></span></span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Overall, it was a fun race. Im not sure I'd run the No Wimps Jr challenge again but it was fun to do. I'm probably not ready for the Full No Wimps either. I will, however, be back for the half again as it's a great course and a fun race to get your season started. If you are looking to get into trail running, the 5 mile is a great course to get your feet wet and see what its like to run single track and hills. I highly recommend any of the race options for the Trail Weekend!
</span><br />
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibdwLClWUPrltwtWJVFwU3wPXxBWVYTvfbgPfV8qB9EqNK5hC0G6aiC0257vN2yuCwfyjaUCAcTSlkqFRC4NwVkmRiyLXckTb8G7HI71nVVAh8xExRlUGXzX-d9CJcYTa-1nVeSfsBYYUc/s1600/IMG_7098.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibdwLClWUPrltwtWJVFwU3wPXxBWVYTvfbgPfV8qB9EqNK5hC0G6aiC0257vN2yuCwfyjaUCAcTSlkqFRC4NwVkmRiyLXckTb8G7HI71nVVAh8xExRlUGXzX-d9CJcYTa-1nVeSfsBYYUc/s640/IMG_7098.jpg" width="288" /></a></td>
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<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">A fun weekend!</span></td>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #323232; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!</span>
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<span style="color: #323232; font-family: 'arial' , 'tahoma' , 'helvetica' , 'freesans' , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="background-color: white;">Disclosure: I paid for my own entries and all opinions are my own.</span></span></span>
Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-92139460633086026522017-04-23T11:32:00.000-04:002017-04-23T11:32:24.667-04:00RumbleRoller Gator review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL5Xiqga3G8bn-FHahWZdAin7eYiulJqG2F0z5cTIpOYOrdaFs5JJQ-Pj8X09fjlCbdrkLWNJD2YCQdt_b1pRWe3HJZV5yxIBdZAdLpaYBGrcMmSfaCuXsTGgKS6SYMd5jnCQJpLLsj1WG/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL5Xiqga3G8bn-FHahWZdAin7eYiulJqG2F0z5cTIpOYOrdaFs5JJQ-Pj8X09fjlCbdrkLWNJD2YCQdt_b1pRWe3HJZV5yxIBdZAdLpaYBGrcMmSfaCuXsTGgKS6SYMd5jnCQJpLLsj1WG/s640/DSC_0001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
About six weeks ago I received the Rumble Roller Gator for review. As many of you may know, I'm a huge fan of foam rollers. Over the years, I've graduated from a simple foam roller to a much more structured foam roller. While more expensive (typically $40-$150), a quality foam roller last a lot longer and give you better massage than a regular foam roller. I've used numerous over the years as seen below.
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqwaQ-Ra1IISoMqC-PakLFG3cJ-O_2GXTqLMA52ymTKbgyidyks9rWuzKRtZDGAvEE_rFBPeYiICBNjNoauJtBKY3RL_pedsismkz3o7yQd3YI6-xl2AL082fje87o8PnRkwTWHlIWbSS/s1600/DSC_0001+2.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="526" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqwaQ-Ra1IISoMqC-PakLFG3cJ-O_2GXTqLMA52ymTKbgyidyks9rWuzKRtZDGAvEE_rFBPeYiICBNjNoauJtBKY3RL_pedsismkz3o7yQd3YI6-xl2AL082fje87o8PnRkwTWHlIWbSS/s640/DSC_0001+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see my obsession with foam rollers and there are lots of choices on the market</td>
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The RumbleRoller rollers are very solid, high quality rollers that should last you for your running career. I will say that these rollers are not for the faint of heart as they really dig into your muscle, as they should, compared to a simple foam roller.<br />
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDebXidUD2v3XynoU76BFbQ0rtIDP8TCLW3ETtOQSBtm06v383UP1LY9SwaNs_9oM9ZnmDatCmNQ50wVksuoh1e1KfUCCz5IvojdZE9NN0gXVf9m-F4-uB2Sps8t0aV_eoz-AzXqi-al-9/s1600/DSC_0002+2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDebXidUD2v3XynoU76BFbQ0rtIDP8TCLW3ETtOQSBtm06v383UP1LY9SwaNs_9oM9ZnmDatCmNQ50wVksuoh1e1KfUCCz5IvojdZE9NN0gXVf9m-F4-uB2Sps8t0aV_eoz-AzXqi-al-9/s640/DSC_0002+2.jpg" width="322" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big knobs versus small knobs</td>
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As shown above, in comparing the original RumbleRoller to the Gator, the knobs on the original are much larger. They provide a much deeper massage into the muscle. While i think the original is a great roller, many probably cannot handle how it feels until you get used to it. The Gator is much better in this regard. <br />
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While the Gator also has knobs that give a nice massage, they don't dig into you so hard. You can really slow down on the roller when using it so that you can work on a particular area. The Gator is also better suited for home use and is not really travel friendly like the Original.
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArKsGSt8rFC4zBvUMDHkQ5KaSv2xtVfOp963bJR11xojf5mV3t2o4Z381uJEiKEzbgnDFSaReWEge959Y-Uqu5tnlb3TEt7qfDCg8RqvP4Phe-qFsqnA5gB-O3eew3AJVeQcXOmbilYyI/s1600/DSC_0002.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArKsGSt8rFC4zBvUMDHkQ5KaSv2xtVfOp963bJR11xojf5mV3t2o4Z381uJEiKEzbgnDFSaReWEge959Y-Uqu5tnlb3TEt7qfDCg8RqvP4Phe-qFsqnA5gB-O3eew3AJVeQcXOmbilYyI/s640/DSC_0002.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smaller knobs</td>
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The roller itself has the same high quality materials from the original roller. I think that it will stand up for years of abuse. I've gone through numerous other brands and RumbleRoller has yet to wear out on me. To give you an idea of use, I use a roller before and after every run and I also use it every evening before going to bed. I also use it each morning that I don't run and sometimes more after marathons or longer races. I use it even if NOT injured. I'm sure I use a roller much more than your average runner but I also feel it helps keep me running healthy.
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTKgoZ4up0cpHrIeFfJfYpjKD_ILJ4EguyMMKUBCoD7TZzLCJN0G9yrs1Ukk4NPNs56rpwmHY_HieoyfPwjrOPyF6sYoNY2XGBr1ghN3zLKRHWeHKURbm8kNwesiFT7d7jENQzRsaz9ggy/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="574" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTKgoZ4up0cpHrIeFfJfYpjKD_ILJ4EguyMMKUBCoD7TZzLCJN0G9yrs1Ukk4NPNs56rpwmHY_HieoyfPwjrOPyF6sYoNY2XGBr1ghN3zLKRHWeHKURbm8kNwesiFT7d7jENQzRsaz9ggy/s640/DSC_0003.JPG" width="640" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quality product</td>
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RumbleRoller suggests rolling normally or holding the roller stationary while shifting your body (Cross Friction as they call it) against it to create shear forces. This allows the roller to help pull tissues apart. In my opinion, this helps you recover quicker. I've always felt that the roller helped me get out the following day even if I didn't feel like it.
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvICkNdMuf8JXuL1G9V8BHnJPJvlEggLqCeOWf-W5r8Hn7ZSDxhdp7IXjV8eIqiyqbdo0nV85JzOgObQ0s6pVcl5xk3Mej5BTFml3GJXcx-ErdIItzA9lOpA5LaFTcaNdrnFy2ISyWTLIZ/s1600/DSC_0002.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvICkNdMuf8JXuL1G9V8BHnJPJvlEggLqCeOWf-W5r8Hn7ZSDxhdp7IXjV8eIqiyqbdo0nV85JzOgObQ0s6pVcl5xk3Mej5BTFml3GJXcx-ErdIItzA9lOpA5LaFTcaNdrnFy2ISyWTLIZ/s640/DSC_0002.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close up of the knobs</td></tr>
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If you have not used a foam roller before and are considering getting one, I think the Gator is a great option to try out. For me, there are not a large amount of products that I feel I can't live without for running. A Roller is one of them. Interested in learning more?<br />
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Check out their <b><u><a href="http://www.rumbleroller.com/" target="_blank">Website</a></u></b>.<br />
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Check out their <b><u><a href="https://www.facebook.com/RumbleRoller/" target="_blank">Facebook page</a></u></b>.<br />
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Check out their <b><u><a href="https://twitter.com/rumbleroller" target="_blank">Twitter page</a></u></b>.<br />
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Check out their <b><u><a href="https://www.instagram.com/rumbleroller/" target="_blank">Instagram page</a></u></b>.<br />
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Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I received a Rumble Roller Gator in exchange for this review.</span>
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Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-83921271093587223832017-03-19T14:22:00.003-04:002017-03-19T14:22:49.561-04:00Seamus O'Possum's 30k Race Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><u>Short Version</u></b><br />
Finished in 3:12:46 (official time); new PR since this was my first 30k race<br />
Overall Place: 43/91<br />
Men 40-49: 18/37<br />
Men Overall: 32/50<br />
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Timed race #121<br />
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It was a long day for me. I drove the longest I've ever driven race morning - over 3 hours! Ran the race and then drove home. The course was super muddy and made it challenging. The park is pretty nice although I didn't bring my camera with me for this race. It's probably not a race I'd run again. Not that it wasn't organized but there wasn't anything special about it to bring me back. If you have not run it before, it's one to run though and I'm happy that I did it.<br />
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<b><u>Long Version</u></b><br />
<b><u>Registration/Packet Pickup/Start Area</u></b><br />
My day started by leaving my home at 3am to get there in time for packet pickup and the race. It took me three hours to get to the race. I could have left at 4am and had plenty of time to get there but the weather was looking iffy so I decided to leave extra early. I didn't need to since I ended up being the first one there (ha, figures!). Registration was on Ultrasignup and very easy and I registered for the lowest price of $65 on New Years Day.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delaware State Park, Delaware, Ohio</td></tr>
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Packet pickup was very easy as this was a small race so I got my packet in literally minutes and then went back to my car to take a quick nap and stay warm before the race started. The race did have a nice fire going by the start though. You could also pick up your packet the day before, at the local brewery, if you were coming in from out of town.<br />
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Packet pickup was right at the start area so I was ready to go after picking up my packet. I literally sat in my car until 5 minutes before the start which was nice since it was a little chilly out but otherwise a perfect morning for a trail race. The race gives their money to the Special Olympics, a great cause, and they had a local athlete get us started. <br />
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<b><u>Course</u></b><br />
This was a 30k race that was mostly on trails. The trails were not extremely technical but there were technical parts on the course. The first 10 miles were all on trails with the out and back. It was interesting because there was a place where you needed to tear out a page from a book to prove you had been there. The race never asked for it but it fun to do that. There should have been a volunteer there though to tell us what to do. I asked some runners that had run it before. At least have a sign that says turn around and go back. There were some volunteers before heading to this portion and they also helped you get back on track to head back to the starting area too.<br />
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Overall the course was not extremely hilly. There were lots of little rollers but nothing really that steep except where you run by the dam wall and had to run up it and down it but it was nothing really. The course was extremely muddy and there were bits of snow but overall the course was clear. As we ran more, the course become more muddy. There was no avoiding it and my shoes were wet after about 3 miles for the duration of the race.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Course info</td></tr>
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There was a 10 mile option and a 30k option. If you ran the 10 mile, you ran the first portion of the out and back course and finished. If you were running the 30k, you went past the finish line after 10 miles and continued to run another 8 mile out and back. I really enjoyed the first 10 miles of the race and hesitated as I came back in to just stop there but I came here to run 30k. Had I lived in the area, I would certainly run the 10 mile option again.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map - out and back for 10 then out and back for 8</td></tr>
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The second out and back portion took you through some trails, running on the side of the road for 1.5 miles or so and around a parking lot in the park, crossing a river (which was very low this year) and then up to a dam wall where you ran that for about a mile or so. It was all grass and you could tell that people run there regularly. The dam was pretty cool actually. I wish I had brought my phone to take a picture of it since it was so large. Here's a picture I found online:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEtjMTra4fc6vRRFvTh-7SNyJXttaz-Y4ey1qRMJ4WSPU4ubMW3orsjBRyBnofdKaudXDYqQLCVBaZN6RXNmaPXBXwlNh4b5tJZWOkU-ojBCfbEchHPmZS_tQb87ZHENJEiWMvqP2OeZvK/s1600/39243897.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEtjMTra4fc6vRRFvTh-7SNyJXttaz-Y4ey1qRMJ4WSPU4ubMW3orsjBRyBnofdKaudXDYqQLCVBaZN6RXNmaPXBXwlNh4b5tJZWOkU-ojBCfbEchHPmZS_tQb87ZHENJEiWMvqP2OeZvK/s640/39243897.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dam at the State Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As I mentioned, this was really the only hilly part and you can kind of see below how the elevation dips and goes up around 13-14 miles. We basically ran to an aid station and then turned around. I will say that there were lots of signs and ribbons to help us stay on track but the area after we ran by the dam to the aid station and back was quite confusing. The race should have had someone there to direct people as there was one area that you crossed and people were going in different directions. I followed the runners in front of me but it almost seemed like I missed part of the course.<br />
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While it was cool to run along the dam wall, it was freaking cold in this section. It was really windy and next to the freeway so I was happy that I decided to keep my jacket and gloves with me. I also put them in the car and would have been freezing had I done so.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUFmv2zFTEIGz41oHTGXs9QIVIsAdvJZ-g_rKxhraTgkUUvf8zCnxwN06Z5SPFL7LzTSFvzqACKCilNVsQh-xg5RgRCDvICw_2tLUK6TOCNpO93kj6l-cb9sgPytc8-exQhBak5lrbm7Ag/s1600/elevation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUFmv2zFTEIGz41oHTGXs9QIVIsAdvJZ-g_rKxhraTgkUUvf8zCnxwN06Z5SPFL7LzTSFvzqACKCilNVsQh-xg5RgRCDvICw_2tLUK6TOCNpO93kj6l-cb9sgPytc8-exQhBak5lrbm7Ag/s640/elevation.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elevation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4jGdm9yrkB5zBJHgxrTBLyOUU5aEfin6LwY1SwaSDu-NuhL9tvCvogbQs6zbMBsKLtStCqd3GB93nDP3efE1KDFETnbx4PB_TfdJlS0Jp5uIzbjtvGReKbAXZnZPunwq16OEgY7cuSG_x/s1600/splits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4jGdm9yrkB5zBJHgxrTBLyOUU5aEfin6LwY1SwaSDu-NuhL9tvCvogbQs6zbMBsKLtStCqd3GB93nDP3efE1KDFETnbx4PB_TfdJlS0Jp5uIzbjtvGReKbAXZnZPunwq16OEgY7cuSG_x/s640/splits.jpg" width="542" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Splits</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As mentioned previously, we ran about 1.5 miles along the park road. While you could have ran on grass, it was difficult because it was tilted to one side so I ended up running on the cement, as most other runners did too. About mile 14, my IT band started to give me issues. I have no idea why other than I ran the race much faster than I've been training. Also, the mud made for difficult footing and could have made the IT band angry. You can see that I slowed down quite a bit after mile 14. <br />
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After I finished the race, and it showed me at 17.5 miles, I figured either I missed part of the course at that second turn around or the course was short. In reviewing other runners results on Strava, it appears that I was in line for distance with all the other runners so I don't think I missed any part of it.<br />
<br />
The theme for the race was definitely mud! This is the muddiest race I've ever run. For those of you in Michigan, I would compare it to The Legend half marathon when it's really muddy but much more muddy. It seemed we were constantly running through thick pasty mud that was wet and slippery. I actually really enjoyed it.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21jYohvMQuH07lN2x0NqSqKbR3D_PBuhzBQ4kuIRYj-TiGmGcTnuWJn75hcqVatUEfmH9Q04u-UtopnRiLI0-KcWdxWTwS5lyIvW2gedw8oT4KyyE8aAKX8uiEIf-bR-vmECqY6N8mLh9/s1600/IMG_6625.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21jYohvMQuH07lN2x0NqSqKbR3D_PBuhzBQ4kuIRYj-TiGmGcTnuWJn75hcqVatUEfmH9Q04u-UtopnRiLI0-KcWdxWTwS5lyIvW2gedw8oT4KyyE8aAKX8uiEIf-bR-vmECqY6N8mLh9/s640/IMG_6625.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Muddy!</td></tr>
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<b><u>Aid Stations</u></b><br />
The aid stations were fantastic. The volunteers were awesome and asked us what we wanted as we ran up to them. They were friendly and helpful. The aid stations were stocked similar to an ultra race with lots of regular food and not just gatorade and water and GU. In fact, I didn't see any GU which is fine by me. I'd rather have regular food like an ultra. I only took some pretzels but they also had cookies, candy, pickles and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Really well done!<br />
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<b><u>Finish Area</u></b><br />
The finish area was the start area. In addition, it was also an aid station so for those that ran the 30k, you started there, hit it at about mile 10 then finished there. The finish was perfect since it was right next to the parking lot as well so you were nice and close to your car. There was an after race party at Stass' brewery with chili and beer but I missed it since I opted to head home after the race, given my three hour drive.<br />
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<b><u>Amenities</u></b><br />
The race did a great job with amenities. For your registration (which the race sold out by the way), you received a well marked course except for the part I mentioned at the dam. They had great aid stations. You received a Winter hat, a car sticker with the race logo on it, a custom bib (the M below was for sweatshirt size)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lvYypp4GQF45M2e7w3foYPZj04LF8FNvXGD-qdPVbeRISWPshVAQtuZDMaCCzOrdx4GGs7njDMwYoy9s_ng4tep8hZMgPHTomQyK0BhhDkPxhP-X60w-GnGBsCrMXyb0KM2jgCJwpQCZ/s1600/DSC_0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="588" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lvYypp4GQF45M2e7w3foYPZj04LF8FNvXGD-qdPVbeRISWPshVAQtuZDMaCCzOrdx4GGs7njDMwYoy9s_ng4tep8hZMgPHTomQyK0BhhDkPxhP-X60w-GnGBsCrMXyb0KM2jgCJwpQCZ/s640/DSC_0007.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Car sticker, Winter Hat, Custom Bib</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You also received a custom race shirt that is a nice design and color. For me, I don't prefer the REALLY huge logo, not because of how big it is, but because of how it will likely make you hot when running in it given how large it is. It would have been much better if they just made a nice 3x3 inch logo on the chest.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKwkexLQNCaGT3T7hJrVJ2avx_8zXaXyuAdV38Lc0sNaHhbAzAt_rn99cFutXHIwqOS0MeQR4nR-lQxFHJ4mDTfKUZCgOEbNuRmDPeA2E8GWIsjmdgLuBwPWyp1DDBG0aqNbnlLicEiIT/s1600/DSC_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKwkexLQNCaGT3T7hJrVJ2avx_8zXaXyuAdV38Lc0sNaHhbAzAt_rn99cFutXHIwqOS0MeQR4nR-lQxFHJ4mDTfKUZCgOEbNuRmDPeA2E8GWIsjmdgLuBwPWyp1DDBG0aqNbnlLicEiIT/s640/DSC_0001.jpg" width="482" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race tech shirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Instead of finishers medals, you received a finisher sweatshirt that you received after you were congratulated for finishing by the race director. They also have a tradition where you sign the pole of the race finish line so I'm permanently affixed to the race. Ha! <br />
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The sweatshirt appears to be made quite well and is very comfortable. I'm wearing it now as I right this race review. While the logo is large on this too, it's not a big deal given you won't be running in it and the logo is really cool looking too!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0fWrI41wXQghwCZrrWXsAQAMfw6j-F5pQj4VnyOb9PxZ6i67sN0C6GzM4Q1Ie8pP3VoWJH_M9yg5E1AKmRTwXwfQyEkKTPYH4t2NrqQfO1P0yfBAWviiupyjuiE73w6Bob2It-c85Vhm1/s1600/DSC_0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0fWrI41wXQghwCZrrWXsAQAMfw6j-F5pQj4VnyOb9PxZ6i67sN0C6GzM4Q1Ie8pP3VoWJH_M9yg5E1AKmRTwXwfQyEkKTPYH4t2NrqQfO1P0yfBAWviiupyjuiE73w6Bob2It-c85Vhm1/s640/DSC_0009.jpg" width="440" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweatshirt as finisher's gift</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Organization</u></b><br />
Outside of the portion of the course that was confusing, the race was well organized. The website has any answers you had, the start was easy to find, the course overall was marked well, the volunteers did a great job and knew what to do.<br />
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<b><u>Overall</u></b><br />
Overall, it was a nice race. The course was overall a fun run and you could really run it fast as it was not extremely technical. I'm not sure I'd drive the same day there and back. It would have been more fun had I been able to stay for the after party that was at Stass' brewery rather then heading on the road home.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU-hdz3T0CCCMCaAmc8VBKCJ-MjCTtWZpEpHLwOs4RWBxZxeUviDt3sjKOOfWj8c_OXsrG2ZEHgNl2dN9d8TpJOX_p6aW5Cty8Bm4I_A8QPxyUUbJ6k4fEI6fL8bjydWud6FTESjtp6bHb/s1600/IMG_6622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU-hdz3T0CCCMCaAmc8VBKCJ-MjCTtWZpEpHLwOs4RWBxZxeUviDt3sjKOOfWj8c_OXsrG2ZEHgNl2dN9d8TpJOX_p6aW5Cty8Bm4I_A8QPxyUUbJ6k4fEI6fL8bjydWud6FTESjtp6bHb/s640/IMG_6622.jpg" width="530" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Success!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If you are interested in running it, check out the <b><u><a href="http://www.possumraces.com/" target="_blank">Possum Races</a></u></b> website. They also have a 50k option coming up in May.<br />
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Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8jiMyvUCZfQPOYbFd5UiS5tVtomSd4bfHAuw3HTwSe-bxFOgO-aJZMcwBQ8PJM65JPh9RAlvoAKfMVGsVl1iaQB1k3vtcEVPOz4yCebUv4PxIdKMmopqFEWT3YrmY77kc6Eb-jP0cE49e/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8jiMyvUCZfQPOYbFd5UiS5tVtomSd4bfHAuw3HTwSe-bxFOgO-aJZMcwBQ8PJM65JPh9RAlvoAKfMVGsVl1iaQB1k3vtcEVPOz4yCebUv4PxIdKMmopqFEWT3YrmY77kc6Eb-jP0cE49e/s1600/signature.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I paid for this race with my own funds. All opinions are my own.</span>Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-35870719412778914822017-02-26T14:22:00.002-05:002017-02-26T14:22:36.502-05:00Panasonic Wings Wireless Bluetooth Headphones reviewA few weeks ago I received a pair of the Panasonic Wings Wireless Bluetooth Headphones for review. Here's what I received:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbaqK77OqAisM28zs-SsYBcUI86vvuKRXQy_yiNSssynJLKvfuTvkPlnZYr2hMCTNLdQ31BE7Pgfjlx1h82K-MLEqiGGLKl2TLc0-sv03mt_5zQiJnnYKRCzH7vYM-dlq5vm_heB7ukkoQ/s1600/DSC_0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbaqK77OqAisM28zs-SsYBcUI86vvuKRXQy_yiNSssynJLKvfuTvkPlnZYr2hMCTNLdQ31BE7Pgfjlx1h82K-MLEqiGGLKl2TLc0-sv03mt_5zQiJnnYKRCzH7vYM-dlq5vm_heB7ukkoQ/s640/DSC_0009.jpg" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Panasonic Wings</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihaPAhIlk7UpDtlnTx8IxlnOs6bqtFYkrRsSKURpLVc4MXiCWHdqtFx9sAnQa-FSMMpzaZ-E8AyMDeKF-r4TBVj5qUlg5P17H0dw3d8QK4x8SkfOeTemm0gTJf0fR0jXz8AvA_HQI2g1q4/s1600/DSC_0016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihaPAhIlk7UpDtlnTx8IxlnOs6bqtFYkrRsSKURpLVc4MXiCWHdqtFx9sAnQa-FSMMpzaZ-E8AyMDeKF-r4TBVj5qUlg5P17H0dw3d8QK4x8SkfOeTemm0gTJf0fR0jXz8AvA_HQI2g1q4/s640/DSC_0016.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Headphones, charging cord and soft case</td></tr>
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<br />First a few of the features of the headphones:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Ultra-light Bluetooth sport clips for high-impact training, indoors and out</li>
<li>Premium 9mm neodymium drivers for full rich bass and natural treble and voices</li>
<li>IPX 4 waterproof shielding for water and sweat resistance</li>
<li>3d Flex design and quick-fit adjuster bend to your ear and keeps headphones in place during vigorous training</li>
<li>Quick charge: up to 70 minute playback with 15 minute charge (6hrs full charge)</li>
<li>Connects to iPhone 7, syncs seamlessly with iPhone/iPod/iPad and Android devices</li>
<li>Includes ultra-soft S/M/L earpads, USB charging cord and travel case</li>
</ul>
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The headphones themselves are very light and have a couple adjustments you can make on them to fit well. As you can see below, the cord itself has an adjustment at the back of your head to fit this how you wish to be comfortable. I personally didn't feel the need to adjust this but it is nice to have that option for people that like the cord a little tighter or don't want it hanging on the back of their neck.</div>
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In addition, the headphones themselves have flexible tubing that allow you to pull the piece that goes over your ear towards your head. This is needed to keep them from moving around. I found that once I had the headphones adjusted, they did not move around while I was running. I also used them to lift weights and it's kind of nice having them be wireless and my phone does not have to be close to me. I found that I could move about 25 feet away from my phone without any interference with the music. I also tried them with my iPad just to watch a movie on Netflix and they worked great for this too.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3kL0TC_hpA2sKQiCb4hcI86HqGdCFrAMp1FS8ArMayf9iPi4imvJDOWwg8cDzbD8E11iPML_bWMLDKMSRgB3CNqbBGH1KKhQGFJfAZA7nP8CQNCHKf6xR1mZNzOKE1_dWYMAsHrjJpG5H/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="596" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3kL0TC_hpA2sKQiCb4hcI86HqGdCFrAMp1FS8ArMayf9iPi4imvJDOWwg8cDzbD8E11iPML_bWMLDKMSRgB3CNqbBGH1KKhQGFJfAZA7nP8CQNCHKf6xR1mZNzOKE1_dWYMAsHrjJpG5H/s640/DSC_0010.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fully adjustable</td></tr>
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Given the adjustments for volume and on/off are at the side of your head, it did take a little getting used to which button was what since you can't see it. It took me a few runs to get used to this especially for changing songs. You need to use the same buttons as the volume to change song. After a few runs, it was fairly easy.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBlXx1OUa_55Ym_m4oQZFkleXXHRE2gCYbzk320GjjbmIoUatBpvyimnwew8NfoV-gbcZ4OdkZ5gHEeeYi59iALPkEf6Dq4Th7C_Azqvoeji3r0flLiHnpceP4VyVcYQHReN0dkbiFWGZc/s1600/DSC_0012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBlXx1OUa_55Ym_m4oQZFkleXXHRE2gCYbzk320GjjbmIoUatBpvyimnwew8NfoV-gbcZ4OdkZ5gHEeeYi59iALPkEf6Dq4Th7C_Azqvoeji3r0flLiHnpceP4VyVcYQHReN0dkbiFWGZc/s640/DSC_0012.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Adjustable volume and on/off</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I used the earpad size that is set up with the headphones but they are very easy to change sizes. The headphones are very comfortable to wear for long periods of time and, since they don't move when running, you don't notice them much. I will say that the earpads do go into your ear which provide excellent sound but they do tend to cut out most of the exterior sounds. While that is great for listening to music, you really need to be more aware of your surroundings while running outside.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTljBgVBxNe3-nAzDQTsI65M7V0kUq1CE-dVye3GF-h2vd4UyytnkFMbtqXTXFSsNgtdf4m9DUUHIL76YLAkR0pwRITpcH58k4Isoih-3LeYeMLeS5rRncaoV-PMXYjfmWNY14y2l_hM51/s1600/DSC_0014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTljBgVBxNe3-nAzDQTsI65M7V0kUq1CE-dVye3GF-h2vd4UyytnkFMbtqXTXFSsNgtdf4m9DUUHIL76YLAkR0pwRITpcH58k4Isoih-3LeYeMLeS5rRncaoV-PMXYjfmWNY14y2l_hM51/s640/DSC_0014.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Headphones have 3 sizes to choose for the earpad</td></tr>
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Charging was very easy. All you do is pull up on the access to the USB charging plug on the headphones and plug the other end either into a computer or a USB charger (as seen below with my Apple charger) I do like the fact you can charge the headphones for 15 minutes for a quick charge in case you are running low and didn't realize it when you needed them.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vIqHTlNTvLIVPncw8OCRBboieqvxK-1sjEUHaoomZFciBcXABl3RSlKGADW8_T4XcR3EuZzcVMTpeFcU6jW-C_kPjn6yE1C2kzEhtn8yC5ZYBx2WnWLLnmnE_7nwzEjGKszeJe45DKfR/s1600/DSC_0018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vIqHTlNTvLIVPncw8OCRBboieqvxK-1sjEUHaoomZFciBcXABl3RSlKGADW8_T4XcR3EuZzcVMTpeFcU6jW-C_kPjn6yE1C2kzEhtn8yC5ZYBx2WnWLLnmnE_7nwzEjGKszeJe45DKfR/s640/DSC_0018.JPG" width="540" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charging</td></tr>
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In regards to fit, the one drawback that I had with these is the ability to use them when it's really cold outside. Not that the headphones didn't function in the cold weather, but they are not comfortable at all while wearing a beanie. The beanie pushes the headphones too hard in your ears. I tried to find a comfortable fit but just couldn't get it. For those in cold weather climates, this means you probably won't be using these while running outside. As a bonus, the last couple of weeks have been amazing in Michigan with temps in the 50's and 60's so I got to use these more than I thought I would outside. They are great on the treadmill though and when you are just wearing a regular hat.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpoIqTQmhmCpncmKM3Aq9FopxY1iju6K1fwM7MXvogAk0PmOneyzLGm_wc2xYGdfFcPDittXyHspE_sPdbMcGKvNMWqwvtSgziHpf919x4j9vqX7sH1lMaxCnl-sZdFg07IPi34pERKylZ/s1600/IMG_6458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpoIqTQmhmCpncmKM3Aq9FopxY1iju6K1fwM7MXvogAk0PmOneyzLGm_wc2xYGdfFcPDittXyHspE_sPdbMcGKvNMWqwvtSgziHpf919x4j9vqX7sH1lMaxCnl-sZdFg07IPi34pERKylZ/s640/IMG_6458.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not the greatest with a beanie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Overall, I think they are good option for warm weather running or use inside and it's awesome to not have to worry about a cord getting in the way. I can get my music started from my phone and put the phone away for the duration of the run which is very convenient.</div>
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Interest in learning more?</div>
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Check out the <b><u><a href="http://www.shop.panasonic.com/" target="_blank">Panasonic website</a></u></b> for more information. MSRP is $99.99.</div>
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Have a great day and....Keep Running</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I received the Panasonic headphones in exchange for this review. All opinions are my own and I was not required to give a particular opinion other than an honest one.</span></div>
Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-23515253108745200172016-12-31T12:44:00.000-05:002016-12-31T12:44:18.148-05:002016 review with exciting races coming in 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGuQv_12AcjCLKKPBpRilRlZrOslWOhMYOn2rzfvpahVWPkogb6gPU8FU489Me82YC3RRxi_aXdbQaefxqHkCYmi7syA1A0hPaKeFEo75CRlvemmZxJAwIQwTBb7WWcoCv2zGKCo4MWlXF/s1600/happy-new-year-2016-SMS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGuQv_12AcjCLKKPBpRilRlZrOslWOhMYOn2rzfvpahVWPkogb6gPU8FU489Me82YC3RRxi_aXdbQaefxqHkCYmi7syA1A0hPaKeFEo75CRlvemmZxJAwIQwTBb7WWcoCv2zGKCo4MWlXF/s640/happy-new-year-2016-SMS.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Well another great year of running. I ran less but still got in 1,500 miles. I raced less (16 races and only one marathon and 6 half marathons). I blogged much less this year and did less race reviews and less product reviews. I didn't take the opportunity to review every product put in front of me like I had in the past and I stopped writing reviews on races I've already ran in the past. I didn't see the purpose in writing a review again since it's obvious if I signed up again that I liked the race. I only posted 19 times this year including today's post. I used Instagram much more than anything this year. I had more fun and really enjoyed the year of training and running.<br />
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The upcoming year will be filled with more running thanks to a couple challenging races including a very hilly (over 5,000 foot of gain) marathon in New York and a very hilly 50k in the U.P. (my second). It will also involve much less beer (I know crazy!) as I try to get in shape for these very difficult races. I look forward to what the year has in store for me in regards to running and wish you a very Happy New Year.<br />
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Have a Great Day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
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<br />Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-59438217247336962702016-11-17T07:15:00.000-05:002016-11-17T07:15:12.716-05:00Nathan Giveaway winner!!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqKYzEDFNqd4R7KhRZAee1kZewt4mDa0blYZT-Ft8toHI4fb-6ob1t3OAN_TwrwZwLbFzBw9w_GbnxO_g_3A0XwAVyKiV2ZwpWLaPj8N1aWPjO3jDStzxhvb-fRCXbaIpUe1aqqT2ZCMkb/s1600/Nathan_NRSM_BloggerGiveAway+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqKYzEDFNqd4R7KhRZAee1kZewt4mDa0blYZT-Ft8toHI4fb-6ob1t3OAN_TwrwZwLbFzBw9w_GbnxO_g_3A0XwAVyKiV2ZwpWLaPj8N1aWPjO3jDStzxhvb-fRCXbaIpUe1aqqT2ZCMkb/s640/Nathan_NRSM_BloggerGiveAway+copy.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The contest is over and we had a nice variety of entries through the Blog, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.<br />
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The winner of the Nathan giveaway is Kyle B.<br />
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Congratulations Kyle - please email me at jeff@detroitrunner (dot com) and I'll get your contact information to Nathan so they can send you this great package!<br />
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Thanks to Nathan for Sponsoring this great giveaway!<br />
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Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
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<br />Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-83307877887656453472016-11-05T18:04:00.000-04:002016-11-05T18:04:12.745-04:00Nathan National Safety Month Review and Giveaway!!!A few weeks back, <b><u><a href="https://www.nathansports.com/" target="_blank">Nathan</a></u></b> sent me a few of their products to test out for National Safety Month. I hope you do what you can to stay safe out there when running. These products will certainly help.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcw6xzhs4RFdmKOHX-LBuCisgkXn2kkKb9Ot9AzH0dajJU3q88yYtStUQ58thIh8iJyKIWZ_BKi0Rf-5c66xmQk-q7Oax8GUXO2CFdKxBhvliQ1KCPfj0DDUE2SLqLPhHxmOYuRo04Nww9/s1600/Nathan_NRSM_BloggerGiveAway+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcw6xzhs4RFdmKOHX-LBuCisgkXn2kkKb9Ot9AzH0dajJU3q88yYtStUQ58thIh8iJyKIWZ_BKi0Rf-5c66xmQk-q7Oax8GUXO2CFdKxBhvliQ1KCPfj0DDUE2SLqLPhHxmOYuRo04Nww9/s640/Nathan_NRSM_BloggerGiveAway+copy.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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They sent five things that help runners be more safe for me to review as well as to giveaway the same for a lucky Detroit Runner reader. Here's a look a what I tested and I'll go in order of their products above:<br />
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First up is the Neutron Fire Headlamp.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ix_-gfngAUCl8j86YsjnHG-eNCw2FtnIrLhWW0psQb9-TCSQ_lzpcRhgmUpkQFNZd99FWogMfcBFqCgUTnnO6LXZlmwGinLNS-UJs9EiUHruKnpiQcuw-7iDR-H5pT-dAB4GpsszTMgE/s1600/headlamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ix_-gfngAUCl8j86YsjnHG-eNCw2FtnIrLhWW0psQb9-TCSQ_lzpcRhgmUpkQFNZd99FWogMfcBFqCgUTnnO6LXZlmwGinLNS-UJs9EiUHruKnpiQcuw-7iDR-H5pT-dAB4GpsszTMgE/s640/headlamp.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Runner's Headlamp</td></tr>
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Honestly, I was a little worried about this because of how small it was but there was no concerns here at all. The headlamp is definitely smaller than what I'm used to running with which is a welcome change. You barely know that you are wearing this headlamp! The headlamp has a white light setting that is low (25 Lu), medium (45 Lu), high (90 Lu) and sprint (115 Lu) giving it various levels of light. It also offers a strobe (45 Lu). I pretty much used the medium or high depending if I was running with another runner and didn't need the brightness or high if I were running alone. In addition, there is a setting for green, blue or red lights as well to help you see. The light is fully adjustable so you can get it to the tightness you want to wear it.<br />
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The light takes 2 AAA batteries and lasts up to six hours on high and 90 Lumens is more than enough to see the road or the trail. I typically run trails, where it's REALLY dark early mornings and it does a great job leading the way. The lamp is adjustable so you can have light going further out or tilt it down so it's closer to your feet. It's also water resistant and I ran one morning in the rain with no issues at all.<br />
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The next product Nathan sent was the Hipster.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKD66_1gj0OLjXKhpl8Kbd-jgJptoI5Lpc4gFTLDz-AmBlQhF30x3J1Pz-4ROHcDjymZu3fIBwjQONu2qAGZMZXhKyr54YFKRQxB9qI87ASLnBzCt9tteCVKI2Gm4qjIUwapdpVtwIK43k/s1600/belt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKD66_1gj0OLjXKhpl8Kbd-jgJptoI5Lpc4gFTLDz-AmBlQhF30x3J1Pz-4ROHcDjymZu3fIBwjQONu2qAGZMZXhKyr54YFKRQxB9qI87ASLnBzCt9tteCVKI2Gm4qjIUwapdpVtwIK43k/s640/belt.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hipster</td></tr>
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This is a product to allow you to run with your phone, gels or any miscellaneous items. Personally I didn't think it was good for storing a key since there is no clip or zipper. It was, however, outstanding for carrying your phone on your run which, of course, keeps you much safer. I have the iPhone 7 and you can see from the picture on the right that it fits perfectly. I know that many of you worry about running with this for fear of it bouncing around, however, the fact this fits well around your waist at your hips keeps the phone against you and it does not bounce. It has several openings to store things on the front (which I found best for the phone), the sides and back. <br />
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I've run over 60 miles with it and you can't even tell it's there. I found myself checking during the run since I could not tell if I still had my phone with me! One of the best running belts I've ever tested and I'm so excited to have this on my runs now. Previously I've rarely run with my phone but now I do all the time. Not only is it safer to run with your phone, but you get an opportunity to take pictures on your run like this one I took on today's 10 mile run.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKc2nNre6LTNEF3x2KNoshKd4Hx4SFdiZZJz_Cz01ELM_Mbh9Z6Se6kUBV3QIQY-bvSPn5ZJ6oZ4nouFrtyMfJcE9jAOFFsgqxvdsWEsriX_zYkWSOk1rSjWIaxWeh4S9oe7UwDqwuT6pP/s1600/IMG_5276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKc2nNre6LTNEF3x2KNoshKd4Hx4SFdiZZJz_Cz01ELM_Mbh9Z6Se6kUBV3QIQY-bvSPn5ZJ6oZ4nouFrtyMfJcE9jAOFFsgqxvdsWEsriX_zYkWSOk1rSjWIaxWeh4S9oe7UwDqwuT6pP/s640/IMG_5276.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I wouldn't have been able to share this without having The Hipster</td></tr>
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Next up is the Speedshot Plus Insulated bottle. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiOSDmy5clBapObR9pVlTSxofjN_FrkRLWU943Emjgw1Ogg5TWNqMh-H7HB8whxcimapaT3PEnJMfAXgBj-zaIok5tRJKQAUGvNI8KX_MU5DuZSV8CqPev7HVWpJLFsasQG36cX9yH9v26/s1600/bottle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiOSDmy5clBapObR9pVlTSxofjN_FrkRLWU943Emjgw1Ogg5TWNqMh-H7HB8whxcimapaT3PEnJMfAXgBj-zaIok5tRJKQAUGvNI8KX_MU5DuZSV8CqPev7HVWpJLFsasQG36cX9yH9v26/s640/bottle.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nathan SpeedShot Plus Insulated bottle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have always run with a handheld bottle since I started running 6 years ago. Even on short runs, I really need water during the run and bottles help keep you hydrated. This one is nice for several reasons:<br />
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<ul>
<li>It's light</li>
<li>It allows you to take 12 ounces of water with you (plenty for up to ten miles for me)</li>
<li>It has reflective parts to help you be seen at night</li>
<li>It's insulated to keep your drinks cold</li>
<li>It's got a nice hands free grip to it so you don't have to hold it hard allowing you to forget you are holding a bottle</li>
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As you can see from the pictures above, it's got a nice wide opening for drinking. It also has an angle at the opening to help make it easier to drink. It comes with a pouch on the front to allow you to store keys or gels and I'm always carrying a key and car fob since I drive to the trail. The lower left picture was taken with my iPhone 7 in the front. I had to stretch it to get it in there but it did fit. Of course, if you have the Hipster, you don't need your phone in this. I was even able to put my lightweight gloves in there from this mornings run once I warmed up. For me, it's the perfect size for most of my training runs.</div>
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Next I tested the Mag Strobe.</div>
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The <b><u><a href="https://www.nathansports.com/" target="_blank">Nathan</a></u></b> Mag Strobe is an extra light you can use either on the front of your shirt or on the back to help cars see you. While the light itself is small, it can project light up to 2400 feet so cars see you coming or them coming up from behind you. It's one extra precaution you can use especially while out running on the roads. In my experience, you cannot have enough reflective gear, lights, headlamps on especially when you are running roads early in the morning or late in the evening. I sometimes have 3 or 4 items to help me be seen and still cars don't see you! This is especially true for 5am runs where drivers are still asleep and not looking for you. It runs on a watch battery and clips to your clothing with a built in magnet.<br />
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Last but not least, I tested the LightSpur RX.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOF0JbhiXV7FccjITOyWbt1z9SzJr0pW8-viUkmxPMBSNK6ujrwKfNEKUHQyCy8xmu6TtFDaOncRw29po397XTOTUhyphenhyphenvAvROA4V2v_ke4TI0IuehgHdCvO_8Fz6QOMxPB57fXRJmn-8C7/s1600/light.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOF0JbhiXV7FccjITOyWbt1z9SzJr0pW8-viUkmxPMBSNK6ujrwKfNEKUHQyCy8xmu6TtFDaOncRw29po397XTOTUhyphenhyphenvAvROA4V2v_ke4TI0IuehgHdCvO_8Fz6QOMxPB57fXRJmn-8C7/s640/light.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LightSpur RX</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is a nifty little light that clips onto the back of your shoe. The light stays on because there are little spurs that rest against the shoe to stay in place. Personally I think it's better suited for road running than trail running but it worked well for both and stays in place. I say this just because sometimes you brush up against things on the trail. The light itself is bright and you can change it to blue, green or red and it can be a steady state light or flashing. I actually prefer the flashing light since cars tend to see you better when the light you have is flashing. It's also rechargeable so no need to replace batteries. As you can see, I have it plugged into my iPhone charger and the cable that comes with the LightSpur. The light will last anywhere from 8 to 16 hours depending on if it's on continuously or on strobe. This is one of those products I put in the category of using with several other safety items like the Mag Strobe and the Headlamp. It's nice to have something that is lighted in back of you in case a car comes up behind you.<br />
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Overall, these are a great set of products to help you be safer when out running whether it's light out or dark. All of the <b><u><a href="https://www.nathansports.com/" target="_blank">Nathan</a></u></b> products are high quality and I can tell they will last for many years to come.<br />
<br />
<b><u><a href="https://www.nathansports.com/" target="_blank">Nathan</a></u></b> wants you to SEE and BE SEEN. So who's interested in winning this great <b><u><a href="https://www.nathansports.com/" target="_blank">Nathan</a></u></b> package? Here's how you can win:<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Post a comment on how you stay safe while running in the dark on this blog or on the Detroit Runner Facebook page (1 entry)</li>
<li>Post a comment on Twitter and tag @detroitrunner1 and @nathansportsinc telling us how you stay safe while running in the dark. Use hashtag #FireUpYourRun as well. (1 entry)</li>
<li>Post a comment on Instagram. I'll be posting about the giveaway there as well. (1 entry)</li>
</ol>
<br />
Three ways to win! Good luck to all. I'll announce a winner on November 15th and have Nathan send out your package directly to you.<br />
<br />
Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I received all 5 products from Nathan in exchange for a review and giveaway. All opinions are my own and I was not required to give a particular opinion other than an honest one.</span><br />
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<br />Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-13188302350858687412016-10-02T21:04:00.000-04:002016-10-02T21:04:38.725-04:00Thru the Leaves Trail Half Marathon race review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwItVfBJBS87A4uZ0uedEqcstm6kxJ5FF-TKE6pkfd4v-i5A8-gjXwz6V1qcxv74jRAAK7LTF1mMYuVbwhLJwraQliXpaHWahpBmlN1AP15Y7Aut41FCGXyPyOjGsUsLJsGxHHQTwQMKKl/s1600/DSC_0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwItVfBJBS87A4uZ0uedEqcstm6kxJ5FF-TKE6pkfd4v-i5A8-gjXwz6V1qcxv74jRAAK7LTF1mMYuVbwhLJwraQliXpaHWahpBmlN1AP15Y7Aut41FCGXyPyOjGsUsLJsGxHHQTwQMKKl/s640/DSC_0007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u><b>Short Version</b></u><br />
Finished in 2:34:50 (official time); no new PR<br />
Overall Place: 21/36<br />
Men 40-49: 6/6 - really - I suck!<br />
Men overall: 14/22<br />
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Timed race #117; Half Marathon #43<br />
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A fun half marathon in Bloomer Park in Rochester Hills. This is a park I train in regularly but I have not run the hills that we did in this race. Great way to see new parts of the park that I've not run much. Nice small race. Old school pull tag timing. Awesome sweatshirt. Had a great time.<br />
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<u><b>Long Version</b></u><br />
<u><b>Registration/Packet Pickup/Start Area</b></u><br />
Registration was online and very simple. I decided at the last minute - that week - to sign up for the race so it was a bit more expensive that what I could have paid.<br />
<br />
Packet pickup was race morning only given the small race. No need to go to this one early as there is plenty of parking. I was there WAY too early. Bloomer charges $5 for their daily pass. Funny thing is this is the first time I've ever been in Bloomer with my car since I usually run from a couple trailheads on the Clinton River Trail into the park.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ0i_Hzd5KUwLihfziR-Xgk9UzXBGettprGbLYhFYzXQDIL9rKOGHhEpPw3pnphzB6C_q22TA2Ib5i2oDw7IpJRQy_1qTEtKKtNXbsEZt_0bqBJqhixjkF-KxAHlwHpb3AmAFjjk4U-huz/s1600/DSC_0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ0i_Hzd5KUwLihfziR-Xgk9UzXBGettprGbLYhFYzXQDIL9rKOGHhEpPw3pnphzB6C_q22TA2Ib5i2oDw7IpJRQy_1qTEtKKtNXbsEZt_0bqBJqhixjkF-KxAHlwHpb3AmAFjjk4U-huz/s640/DSC_0005.JPG" width="520" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bloomer $5/day</td></tr>
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The race was at the Hilltop shelter. It was kind of misty out but the temperatures were good for running. The race was all set up and very organized and ready for the runners. I got to meet Tim who I follow I Strava and we chatted a bit as well as saying hello again to Christian before the race started. I love really small races!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtL7IMgfmokee6rE7iNWiew4JdvDVJs-aqVYPl5z2Ox0velskKvvx2v_75QGjEVT8opjXJZmsdMQttIl7VotPzrxq_uB91wIzZ4qTVzz5xRQ_wYIvCIroFQ8PJA10-DMiJnVTTObFoRpBU/s1600/P1060429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtL7IMgfmokee6rE7iNWiew4JdvDVJs-aqVYPl5z2Ox0velskKvvx2v_75QGjEVT8opjXJZmsdMQttIl7VotPzrxq_uB91wIzZ4qTVzz5xRQ_wYIvCIroFQ8PJA10-DMiJnVTTObFoRpBU/s640/P1060429.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Packet pickup on race day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Course</u></b><br />
I knew that we would be running more hills than I'm used to running in the park so this ended up being a much slower course for me. It didn't help I went out so fast in the first mile either. There is a couple miles on the course that I run regularly so it was nice to see that and also fill in other miles with some areas that I have not run much. The race did a great job with finding a variety of trails to run. One small loop in the beginning and two large loops.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-23EkNhCTtUbSYOsHeHDUClOSJWm_PzwNdqRJ9DTgEwjZ6cCvFpiix6ztpUT2jlQYwcr8-TN4kh8HemFARV5toXePdnFZGM7bSp_hZyhQ_cyErK1pNE_-XWWsrknXJNwTlMQoInpo-Ga5/s1600/course.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="528" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-23EkNhCTtUbSYOsHeHDUClOSJWm_PzwNdqRJ9DTgEwjZ6cCvFpiix6ztpUT2jlQYwcr8-TN4kh8HemFARV5toXePdnFZGM7bSp_hZyhQ_cyErK1pNE_-XWWsrknXJNwTlMQoInpo-Ga5/s640/course.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Splits/course map/elevation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The race started out with a little asphalt through the parking lot to get to the trails. It spread out any crowd at the start. The 10k and half marathoners all started at the same time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7RqBRJM3FOFuIWnSxoAs17chn6gArw5H9X2CGlorFqlhRGUj97xlAY7TjN4WLV2zU1XAO2xNYTF8IeiHffU784NcJVDYf3d8h_gJg6ZX7kzWV0eQVg9SU-Qk5OryAlhlBZuVhgZAjK2U4/s1600/P1060431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7RqBRJM3FOFuIWnSxoAs17chn6gArw5H9X2CGlorFqlhRGUj97xlAY7TjN4WLV2zU1XAO2xNYTF8IeiHffU784NcJVDYf3d8h_gJg6ZX7kzWV0eQVg9SU-Qk5OryAlhlBZuVhgZAjK2U4/s640/P1060431.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little asphalt at the start</td></tr>
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The half marathon runners had to run a 0.75 mile small green loop first and then come around and run 2 pink loops.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhksRvlKjMRmexfWKj6JG2zjvcuN05XD4bhbCqIV8aN4HJCJL83T0WvP8UGhgO7GB_34zTnqVWcWLkczucKOoth8MY144gUrjkvGKiuKe-Axa-4qkgux9IDETB4FkVVLXIg-XSf66_HHGK6/s1600/P1060435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhksRvlKjMRmexfWKj6JG2zjvcuN05XD4bhbCqIV8aN4HJCJL83T0WvP8UGhgO7GB_34zTnqVWcWLkczucKOoth8MY144gUrjkvGKiuKe-Axa-4qkgux9IDETB4FkVVLXIg-XSf66_HHGK6/s640/P1060435.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spread out the crowd</td></tr>
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White markings are the cross country teams and were not to be followed. We followed pink flags.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCi6fSn1-0yGyoiALJIytNnz7ZRE9LEd3R234bMWjbCPOV8W38YNKO61Nc_BGQTxMKekDEWWRPvfGELtCUUu8DuWJxPnQ4MwCkaMKTGi2PCxCKDm9ssMwNJNcuv8pl4bKUxVryvXhjdg2a/s1600/P1060444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCi6fSn1-0yGyoiALJIytNnz7ZRE9LEd3R234bMWjbCPOV8W38YNKO61Nc_BGQTxMKekDEWWRPvfGELtCUUu8DuWJxPnQ4MwCkaMKTGi2PCxCKDm9ssMwNJNcuv8pl4bKUxVryvXhjdg2a/s640/P1060444.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Onto the trail</td></tr>
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The great thing about Bloomer is there are a variety of trails including wide track, two track, and single track. It really is a nice park and I'm happy to be so close to it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizB8RHzVThjucDWqDxV2rLyRDLh1Vynsffym8jRsFZxVFFqT2NS86ijLkf3lkIxnOUR_fH9oJKtopqLdsz1eLNayr_UlawiK51O-0nV37P-RU1RJ81kT8_KtSC_JK390l3UVMCtKKvYaUB/s1600/P1060452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizB8RHzVThjucDWqDxV2rLyRDLh1Vynsffym8jRsFZxVFFqT2NS86ijLkf3lkIxnOUR_fH9oJKtopqLdsz1eLNayr_UlawiK51O-0nV37P-RU1RJ81kT8_KtSC_JK390l3UVMCtKKvYaUB/s640/P1060452.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">wide track</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The race did an awesome job at marking the course. I never felt like I was going to get lost off the trail.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9u2qZwawEZmxq8WrdZojz7_6Ud2DbpN4qCXng8WChCdJpm3usqL_hlEHLnHixEziz7C5ZrcN-VCb3FuBaqWqbfKXCn7zEFidCyT_2jdagQnKQjMz-wq-yRyAPO8WwvIcxbVo8eUXJMXLN/s1600/P1060454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9u2qZwawEZmxq8WrdZojz7_6Ud2DbpN4qCXng8WChCdJpm3usqL_hlEHLnHixEziz7C5ZrcN-VCb3FuBaqWqbfKXCn7zEFidCyT_2jdagQnKQjMz-wq-yRyAPO8WwvIcxbVo8eUXJMXLN/s640/P1060454.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Single track</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was kind of a dreary day out so pictures didn't come out that great. It was perfect running weather but was a bit humid out.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWYm55dd7WCULRBt6IeSvbQX7odXHHZrHT32jNQchU2YBAPfmpD-SNy1PJvVUL67AgPT3nc-KNjKfL8I8kNATX9wfLD8fPYARY_pXGiZvK_W4JgUCniH2e0h1CKsDPmbcR7y-CQZRNPQjD/s1600/P1060456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWYm55dd7WCULRBt6IeSvbQX7odXHHZrHT32jNQchU2YBAPfmpD-SNy1PJvVUL67AgPT3nc-KNjKfL8I8kNATX9wfLD8fPYARY_pXGiZvK_W4JgUCniH2e0h1CKsDPmbcR7y-CQZRNPQjD/s640/P1060456.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We had to go up stairs twice and it made for an interesting course. The stairs were really wet so you needed to watch your footing.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWactEXLfehPXi9WaR1hl1dAhoQZOXNVBaZzewVCm3Y9FHSJ1faKBIZ1BvkMLOk2zlm4Rwqx3veLC-7vcw303awFwOVy0ul3QgPzx_yBVj3wqCcDlS-bQKS-0Z4d_MXss7DZLVintktLO2/s1600/P1060457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWactEXLfehPXi9WaR1hl1dAhoQZOXNVBaZzewVCm3Y9FHSJ1faKBIZ1BvkMLOk2zlm4Rwqx3veLC-7vcw303awFwOVy0ul3QgPzx_yBVj3wqCcDlS-bQKS-0Z4d_MXss7DZLVintktLO2/s640/P1060457.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stairs - twice</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvzNiRgaatxXMXiwoJeWEZeRhneNbBeJuyxeoUNt0GsEsBwf7ExtISKymNyyUkF27JNzkvg3xtLvajNX8ZOF6vfjMtJFIMq1hhvgy8mldau9NbxDrYMf9Ep6-nxUqKQUHUa87aJvwpiHK/s1600/P1060458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvzNiRgaatxXMXiwoJeWEZeRhneNbBeJuyxeoUNt0GsEsBwf7ExtISKymNyyUkF27JNzkvg3xtLvajNX8ZOF6vfjMtJFIMq1hhvgy8mldau9NbxDrYMf9Ep6-nxUqKQUHUa87aJvwpiHK/s640/P1060458.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Down stairs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's always nice when you are familiar with parts of the trails. Frankly, I felt that I didn't run this course that well. I was expecting to run it much faster than I did since I knew the area well but I just didn't have it in me today.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqqzKL2GnHig1HZI5S570nylUK-x9MZiorwBdMtxXvJlaKT1jb0EJoBJq3wrk4w2uJ7QvtEgAZesbw6lzkoPqLoylZJ2EEhMcDKRisliODi4LgIVHreBPDX6r_mp7y6kx3XbLQL4eNJ7oB/s1600/P1060461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqqzKL2GnHig1HZI5S570nylUK-x9MZiorwBdMtxXvJlaKT1jb0EJoBJq3wrk4w2uJ7QvtEgAZesbw6lzkoPqLoylZJ2EEhMcDKRisliODi4LgIVHreBPDX6r_mp7y6kx3XbLQL4eNJ7oB/s640/P1060461.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great area by the river</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMyONB3sh2re1G67YUybR-FPTSltROdXwfIGvwZQJs78x4GmnkwA8DyeQtT0O47IpIQfL5HnycRsonooOfg-HL3LjlFIrRqoRmo5Fp7kAO1vRqL6Zie7z-ogXcgQXT7CYjO7pLD_8ChWE1/s1600/P1060464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMyONB3sh2re1G67YUybR-FPTSltROdXwfIGvwZQJs78x4GmnkwA8DyeQtT0O47IpIQfL5HnycRsonooOfg-HL3LjlFIrRqoRmo5Fp7kAO1vRqL6Zie7z-ogXcgQXT7CYjO7pLD_8ChWE1/s640/P1060464.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wide trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Regardless, I really enjoyed the course as the race did a super job putting together a course that had some nice variety as well as it was challenging.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqECvNAoOMrIVjt70el8i9Wd_30aHDRm-EDgrClXk3iuloklCSL2qlpu-JH4PrkJlWiOXu-mlwfInHIC8LU_yw5OfypcCPrEtpH2YUviIXdF0gU6Hekp6bPO4j0LjUHp9KCHkTYwJfPSwX/s1600/P1060466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqECvNAoOMrIVjt70el8i9Wd_30aHDRm-EDgrClXk3iuloklCSL2qlpu-JH4PrkJlWiOXu-mlwfInHIC8LU_yw5OfypcCPrEtpH2YUviIXdF0gU6Hekp6bPO4j0LjUHp9KCHkTYwJfPSwX/s640/P1060466.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Part of my regular route</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbk9xG6JWBzm_bUEuKEbee9talGN_RanE-6sxq9g61-1I9rt4Qh_YNARqrQNrCroriuVgKR6QNFIqlAzxKcEtT4SAwVt33cyGVXKjUQHtpFNNAblxzn8JhV4aLYV7Olf-DgXvK_D3wqzs/s1600/P1060467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbk9xG6JWBzm_bUEuKEbee9talGN_RanE-6sxq9g61-1I9rt4Qh_YNARqrQNrCroriuVgKR6QNFIqlAzxKcEtT4SAwVt33cyGVXKjUQHtpFNNAblxzn8JhV4aLYV7Olf-DgXvK_D3wqzs/s640/P1060467.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More of my regular route</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The swamp was super green and this picture didn't even do it justice.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8LTYbu4UXzf0Y3KUuVhO8YSMHuz2H-ywpvGZRRzulJJx0UtPuKqlz4hHnN-5klr6iZGpQBEa-OsIFfihHs-fai4I4JLzh7JOpZb3sjrnAzF8Cdyz33b-OmEx7IvEWU1aY0iw3bS-La56n/s1600/P1060469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8LTYbu4UXzf0Y3KUuVhO8YSMHuz2H-ywpvGZRRzulJJx0UtPuKqlz4hHnN-5klr6iZGpQBEa-OsIFfihHs-fai4I4JLzh7JOpZb3sjrnAzF8Cdyz33b-OmEx7IvEWU1aY0iw3bS-La56n/s640/P1060469.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swamp we ran through - just kidding</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There was a longer stretch of wide track that was nice and flat too.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi_9orRUzfVAyJkDmNfRvbqmArVJ6vkLNETdJbdVgr_LpiSDwu2qDsP2-VcuuIe-zZ0UBhXygK1snV-T_02H-kE-Fbo6WenZkrTG09JT3eriVkB9AHZ2NulcHnoOvs7r6xgsMny4pFC3uc/s1600/P1060470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi_9orRUzfVAyJkDmNfRvbqmArVJ6vkLNETdJbdVgr_LpiSDwu2qDsP2-VcuuIe-zZ0UBhXygK1snV-T_02H-kE-Fbo6WenZkrTG09JT3eriVkB9AHZ2NulcHnoOvs7r6xgsMny4pFC3uc/s640/P1060470.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">wide trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I talked to a friend, Pam, as she zoomed past me!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq6azhEWP-J4VXYEknWzJ-KlVppSW6qxn8pqE-RusEmF_Xm4paZoQwOUZG0Fw1RTYM8Ibr2MfiHsxpGTH03r0QeLsb6ooUtoqUlp-sBa_aQT8pYRUGdtfWLCY6WD64oynhFR8T5zFajTii/s1600/P1060472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq6azhEWP-J4VXYEknWzJ-KlVppSW6qxn8pqE-RusEmF_Xm4paZoQwOUZG0Fw1RTYM8Ibr2MfiHsxpGTH03r0QeLsb6ooUtoqUlp-sBa_aQT8pYRUGdtfWLCY6WD64oynhFR8T5zFajTii/s640/P1060472.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pam passing me!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglW8iho34qQzwoNA8g7LI99v47lZkz1LgC68_ZLizPBrj9BR2fbCx2AT09MHWaE-JY3UhDAPeigsDYW5LmsaFPhvzZyyV-hohl7RahpZvLvQE9G0T4CgeWrS-XqG5QbnUsGFr4m2Nd5M6R/s1600/P1060475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglW8iho34qQzwoNA8g7LI99v47lZkz1LgC68_ZLizPBrj9BR2fbCx2AT09MHWaE-JY3UhDAPeigsDYW5LmsaFPhvzZyyV-hohl7RahpZvLvQE9G0T4CgeWrS-XqG5QbnUsGFr4m2Nd5M6R/s640/P1060475.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White lines are the cross country route</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The first loop went faster than the second loop but it seemed to go by quickly. The race had an aid station at the start/finish line for the half marathon runners.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyKv1-9Xs4Ye_wXaoiKE7IadHXjsZ_RSQfprZIziuROTs6g7hSuynnQu_2FUGUsH50x10s5uXSAiJgYKDyTmq1eLV8sUGiS8Dj0NTwo41u-Dx5X1S-e4EMOFhom4kzNdthp6PdfbLs9Rym/s1600/P1060477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyKv1-9Xs4Ye_wXaoiKE7IadHXjsZ_RSQfprZIziuROTs6g7hSuynnQu_2FUGUsH50x10s5uXSAiJgYKDyTmq1eLV8sUGiS8Dj0NTwo41u-Dx5X1S-e4EMOFhom4kzNdthp6PdfbLs9Rym/s640/P1060477.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time for another loop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Signage to mark where to run for the half marathon was nice. I didn't get a good picture but the race was directing the 10k runners and half runners at this split since we had that extra 0.75 small loop.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCL_RhCMFP10zTE1dMcb6g4qjJlPokLg6hjWNAIkW7b3qOTId6Y1sWfRkLyBpe-Gp7iq3wj0FAqLRB_xAu1EWpdI9q6UqbkZMHZzI493cVphbXhWSDC0xiAoathmWRT_3lHHq5NU76Vqam/s1600/P1060478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCL_RhCMFP10zTE1dMcb6g4qjJlPokLg6hjWNAIkW7b3qOTId6Y1sWfRkLyBpe-Gp7iq3wj0FAqLRB_xAu1EWpdI9q6UqbkZMHZzI493cVphbXhWSDC0xiAoathmWRT_3lHHq5NU76Vqam/s640/P1060478.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well marked course</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi53FIWJ5Eikr8I-tpHurtEklifoI65svDCnKCvmYeJiqGktmfhkooASE3UxE6wLPCpUceCZ7Ci186wSq7gPRY2u5uG4cwXLhDL9mABt94uDYpcSBFN6Gf64SGaOVcb_wKwctUDhmA0r2BQ/s1600/P1060479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi53FIWJ5Eikr8I-tpHurtEklifoI65svDCnKCvmYeJiqGktmfhkooASE3UxE6wLPCpUceCZ7Ci186wSq7gPRY2u5uG4cwXLhDL9mABt94uDYpcSBFN6Gf64SGaOVcb_wKwctUDhmA0r2BQ/s640/P1060479.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We passed by the Velodrome a couple times as well. If you have not seen it, when you run at Bloomer sometime, you should check it out, it's really cool to see this. I'd love to see a bike race there.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioAwVeZCeZouOY3qLplBzTbOUZhw-wloIJkn94BKXZ8b-fHBK-FQBv_nHdcLkHZdy7GjPWGxwnYzDEhSNw7oVR8Xn1FR9TARJVuTbVfaBI1C5MYfzjAdfzGfHLX8HOmrlDUA_-r-jRJ0WJ/s1600/P1060480.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioAwVeZCeZouOY3qLplBzTbOUZhw-wloIJkn94BKXZ8b-fHBK-FQBv_nHdcLkHZdy7GjPWGxwnYzDEhSNw7oVR8Xn1FR9TARJVuTbVfaBI1C5MYfzjAdfzGfHLX8HOmrlDUA_-r-jRJ0WJ/s640/P1060480.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Passed by the Velodrome</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Below was one of the most beautiful parts of the park up near the top of the mountain bike route. You didn't want to get too close to that edge - it was a really big drop down.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEaX5lK_yqXAfSE5gQphMidS0K0VOZroESeZcBgp0K69kNxLm2cMb-eyzjUyd92scp9yfY3vLS54KuX15NjuZQi1xk6jjCxkfDCs3UDnIdc8eT_11d15EAF1jdMspPMNxuZkgKahJzpaqT/s1600/P1060481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEaX5lK_yqXAfSE5gQphMidS0K0VOZroESeZcBgp0K69kNxLm2cMb-eyzjUyd92scp9yfY3vLS54KuX15NjuZQi1xk6jjCxkfDCs3UDnIdc8eT_11d15EAF1jdMspPMNxuZkgKahJzpaqT/s640/P1060481.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Awesome area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The mountain bike course was really fun to run and I was happy to be running it down instead of up! Haha! Actually it might have been easier on my knees had we run this up!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggrVTC1evEgdi37GG5WupYL9B04Bi0sSGh6SW0PeDZJ3mSF07AsO9nC7y-yrE-50ZsbfYg2oU0B5ei-oWicRvlmz8NJmDKn0uSB3UHMpxyvQHTS_lOrsX1-W3KjvX9Yx5len_OTKGxGgDS/s1600/P1060484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggrVTC1evEgdi37GG5WupYL9B04Bi0sSGh6SW0PeDZJ3mSF07AsO9nC7y-yrE-50ZsbfYg2oU0B5ei-oWicRvlmz8NJmDKn0uSB3UHMpxyvQHTS_lOrsX1-W3KjvX9Yx5len_OTKGxGgDS/s640/P1060484.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Down we go!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It took some maneuvering to run these in the downhill without wiping out on your face.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_eXVY0q9Omo8xIBTy3tviyXG7JxLAbwZ2Cv2rKfQohH5GtRIRJOjeamBvb6TsUngplGA3RdUIvNWBKDPi3r_ZsI6NVsYm-fQyuPJ5LIkZDNZLXX71Ks7BMjk7bNQtfeyS8AruoGDVeiCP/s1600/P1060485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_eXVY0q9Omo8xIBTy3tviyXG7JxLAbwZ2Cv2rKfQohH5GtRIRJOjeamBvb6TsUngplGA3RdUIvNWBKDPi3r_ZsI6NVsYm-fQyuPJ5LIkZDNZLXX71Ks7BMjk7bNQtfeyS8AruoGDVeiCP/s640/P1060485.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Switchbacks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
They did level off though even if we then had to run over logs.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtKdyBl8lqA-vcFdQ2AAqQDyJlJbpHPVyeUKvVAHmqNswom70HxLTt6WiC2xSnc011z6FUFpF9Xz4PsR9Z4UphhZhYc_LrdaZjsVYcygv7RDlgOLa2ZVqLv3ULpH918KB2guqVLUaWEHCU/s1600/P1060486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtKdyBl8lqA-vcFdQ2AAqQDyJlJbpHPVyeUKvVAHmqNswom70HxLTt6WiC2xSnc011z6FUFpF9Xz4PsR9Z4UphhZhYc_LrdaZjsVYcygv7RDlgOLa2ZVqLv3ULpH918KB2guqVLUaWEHCU/s640/P1060486.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Logs to jump</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Or run along logs, as is the case of this log bridge below, which was really fun by the way.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFyfcWZiJkvSG-khOfglogU3WUoQBxdejsLvw015Xv4C8SOWBmzNqBwXAbxnZV8x-bWt1aV41yJA_yp-1gmp55pf5xblXjtgT8dJ4VN_4SnfYbOZbFdAT_cv5skJJ8guJSF1Wl_yxjyE1k/s1600/P1060488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFyfcWZiJkvSG-khOfglogU3WUoQBxdejsLvw015Xv4C8SOWBmzNqBwXAbxnZV8x-bWt1aV41yJA_yp-1gmp55pf5xblXjtgT8dJ4VN_4SnfYbOZbFdAT_cv5skJJ8guJSF1Wl_yxjyE1k/s640/P1060488.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Log to run over</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The course really kept you on your toes at least for the first 3 miles of it.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilWUznZ_Z9EvWTMatzqMJHJyqbb3IMhisnNpC4nk1-FVIMVMqNueN9K0I5EbezUyVlOXq_ne_iw_j1HKmI5vAIXWakwbrHRkismmQoRR_iF9pxjAlwKhZqO24xbCDFCx4PiI6YPPSKAw2z/s1600/P1060491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilWUznZ_Z9EvWTMatzqMJHJyqbb3IMhisnNpC4nk1-FVIMVMqNueN9K0I5EbezUyVlOXq_ne_iw_j1HKmI5vAIXWakwbrHRkismmQoRR_iF9pxjAlwKhZqO24xbCDFCx4PiI6YPPSKAw2z/s640/P1060491.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't fall right</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The second time around on this and I was mostly alone so it made it a little easier. I wasn't as worried about running into someone.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipH9HPSK89XoGGkwdu7oMB_6KdLn0IyLnicc08B82fcqPrK2JExuFaceRKcWaRVKzAYjLwbjhal6n0QOacHkOx1W5bh1EzXj2iGjzI1oQ3L0oXy0-3-sZHwWhQomFqT_d7hsFJvflXFmhJ/s1600/P1060493.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipH9HPSK89XoGGkwdu7oMB_6KdLn0IyLnicc08B82fcqPrK2JExuFaceRKcWaRVKzAYjLwbjhal6n0QOacHkOx1W5bh1EzXj2iGjzI1oQ3L0oXy0-3-sZHwWhQomFqT_d7hsFJvflXFmhJ/s640/P1060493.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fun part of run</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The course by the river was really nice. Given all the rain we had, the river was flowing quite a bit and was really high too. You could hear it the entire time you ran by it and that's not always the case - at least when I've trained there.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilHXQC0a7Dhxsbe6WsGYtDqe2iyv1M2zfDuwueZKJnSfzWc4tRFzOfmw6Hk8hM2grVROMnUwdj8Z3HJ6EAHST39AO6NzbwaZW5I33DMdztZvTZOXXb3D0uQKh9d_TRaCDm76MbS0s2KFXZ/s1600/P1060496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilHXQC0a7Dhxsbe6WsGYtDqe2iyv1M2zfDuwueZKJnSfzWc4tRFzOfmw6Hk8hM2grVROMnUwdj8Z3HJ6EAHST39AO6NzbwaZW5I33DMdztZvTZOXXb3D0uQKh9d_TRaCDm76MbS0s2KFXZ/s640/P1060496.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back by the river</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was surprised to see how high the river was but was happy to see it didn't require the race to modify the course due to flooding.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh09i2LEkDGaMqPILr1aIFbiT0J5k9j_21KufYnFIKhjbl08eE64xe0I5_3W4h5ZOf19JZKhj1Ym_XKSIjfnRCUmSvO6ZVKw_m0B-vkLbux0ea7r_sjxqUr3iUuZhaVy7J__GFxJyMBLOzB/s1600/P1060497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh09i2LEkDGaMqPILr1aIFbiT0J5k9j_21KufYnFIKhjbl08eE64xe0I5_3W4h5ZOf19JZKhj1Ym_XKSIjfnRCUmSvO6ZVKw_m0B-vkLbux0ea7r_sjxqUr3iUuZhaVy7J__GFxJyMBLOzB/s640/P1060497.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The river was very high given the rains</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYTED9I1sMVAfln4jDWhQxvHvo8kum2f4Whsq_c6TYQ3zysQgZOMZ_9zOp4mZW3m-kD1nLHyHriDu7adtNM7MSsO7lQjo8faJFFCAX9csSOnqmkxdi-wL26LwU4zsoiJaKXYbNZM42mc_s/s1600/P1060498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYTED9I1sMVAfln4jDWhQxvHvo8kum2f4Whsq_c6TYQ3zysQgZOMZ_9zOp4mZW3m-kD1nLHyHriDu7adtNM7MSsO7lQjo8faJFFCAX9csSOnqmkxdi-wL26LwU4zsoiJaKXYbNZM42mc_s/s640/P1060498.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Single track</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I always love running by the water whether it's a river or a lake.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiecNijJRjXm_2A9yc9hx_Lx3H_i3X2M2h4Y1sT6KRgBUZoxBqrn1AkGydXmydN1lEbzsiQ1W_eGf5WLa9yF0l94ozgk-4zFjaa500ogDH08xqezjkykIqrNGb6cf8z7SumcoY-hKB8hgoC/s1600/P1060502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiecNijJRjXm_2A9yc9hx_Lx3H_i3X2M2h4Y1sT6KRgBUZoxBqrn1AkGydXmydN1lEbzsiQ1W_eGf5WLa9yF0l94ozgk-4zFjaa500ogDH08xqezjkykIqrNGb6cf8z7SumcoY-hKB8hgoC/s640/P1060502.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River flowing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We got to cross several wooden bridges as well. It's really fun to run these but you needed to be careful since they were pretty wet.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNul1RLZxqvTtbZWHmi0eNpiBy9YVPmFbqyY97aBg91Z6tJuaN051B2pkSvXK4KvL6zbQOgYrFXramTdJQaAAR19kvRfIjsAPb-N8Gubeq81X8XznrNpUGHQo3ET88AnRKm1KaULLh5TfS/s1600/P1060504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNul1RLZxqvTtbZWHmi0eNpiBy9YVPmFbqyY97aBg91Z6tJuaN051B2pkSvXK4KvL6zbQOgYrFXramTdJQaAAR19kvRfIjsAPb-N8Gubeq81X8XznrNpUGHQo3ET88AnRKm1KaULLh5TfS/s640/P1060504.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bridges</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We experienced a little mud on the course but nothing really that bad.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6dCXflpmtooCUHirhjBrxyDYAHRZsAVKgschZOF8A0IA6tdnBhNB9-uMMlrXZpRecWrpPsXncGVQ8cIc59Qm4OV3111MQr5SzZUaKHg5A3urk3TYtwmhDGRUU5_pzwiCK4WxoNR6fIumJ/s1600/P1060505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6dCXflpmtooCUHirhjBrxyDYAHRZsAVKgschZOF8A0IA6tdnBhNB9-uMMlrXZpRecWrpPsXncGVQ8cIc59Qm4OV3111MQr5SzZUaKHg5A3urk3TYtwmhDGRUU5_pzwiCK4WxoNR6fIumJ/s640/P1060505.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little mud</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB9G2IqE9VNj4-sJw9OkSd1YLQ8a6QjiUMdH90Wzae5uw10bo_f_NY5WbamWJFLoQq-6I9Xzdm5sDINDbLoRCHf_UHpvsi64I3uuk21S8EGb8uNuryrMzM2nBgcej2KIGF2Fj5TRQIhWST/s1600/P1060506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB9G2IqE9VNj4-sJw9OkSd1YLQ8a6QjiUMdH90Wzae5uw10bo_f_NY5WbamWJFLoQq-6I9Xzdm5sDINDbLoRCHf_UHpvsi64I3uuk21S8EGb8uNuryrMzM2nBgcej2KIGF2Fj5TRQIhWST/s640/P1060506.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 6 or 12 </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8RHLEhekdQR7HJnOakhxc7P_0gTAmcxWdO98-_HNwW64oWg9xhr_2k8h0fiavjUoSAB2Ia6F76WqDSoPkdQPPn8iFcxajHMV5bPsfvEDHBeyfITczbv6FNWgqWXlYfref8XPhUHyA-q0T/s1600/P1060507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8RHLEhekdQR7HJnOakhxc7P_0gTAmcxWdO98-_HNwW64oWg9xhr_2k8h0fiavjUoSAB2Ia6F76WqDSoPkdQPPn8iFcxajHMV5bPsfvEDHBeyfITczbv6FNWgqWXlYfref8XPhUHyA-q0T/s640/P1060507.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wet area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My shoes got soaked and stayed wet about a 1/2 mile for this portion of the course. With all the rain we got in the last couple days, I was surprised that this is all that we really experienced for wet trails.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB_wbffW6FwPEtHEO60NCSCmooCNZV2rqL8vCMBiNZnQMAEUDkOJqmVqujBhI8xWjTaPBjK0msbPXKuTWFuUv4Eb4nVb-dyLu_rT_pfl0xi82ABOK5EedcqeRFzplPkKrkbaj6r8Y1raZu/s1600/P1060509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB_wbffW6FwPEtHEO60NCSCmooCNZV2rqL8vCMBiNZnQMAEUDkOJqmVqujBhI8xWjTaPBjK0msbPXKuTWFuUv4Eb4nVb-dyLu_rT_pfl0xi82ABOK5EedcqeRFzplPkKrkbaj6r8Y1raZu/s640/P1060509.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shoes got a little wet here</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjveH02Aohyphenhyphen_OxPSRpHADBkQFr1OWyuXCcrSlyO-2dzY9nN0n7u3qpUqsEaEGKxt9wp5pIpVBrsqJd2NKmumG5bEp70rRgLmusotasErsqz7hdIWkpXqedc5H5-DTMowLbtFQ2lD-e1bq1F/s1600/P1060510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjveH02Aohyphenhyphen_OxPSRpHADBkQFr1OWyuXCcrSlyO-2dzY9nN0n7u3qpUqsEaEGKxt9wp5pIpVBrsqJd2NKmumG5bEp70rRgLmusotasErsqz7hdIWkpXqedc5H5-DTMowLbtFQ2lD-e1bq1F/s640/P1060510.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little more mud and wet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The mud and wet always make for an interesting race. For those running the 10k, you only had to run this once and it was near the end of the loop so not that big of deal. It was actually the first time my Skechers really had any real water in them and they did drain off the water pretty well.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCNutNlgQcBhVhsyUht0-qm0_kSAFGKFS5ctQcDxxEWjq2x3LI22qucmwUAkZFTxALbCcYsdnwiR-St1HuwMPJ4oWll4TdahiXiZ1a2kZ_PlbwyvFzmMg0sOdQ4iybnUeaLKhl9FenroMw/s1600/P1060511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCNutNlgQcBhVhsyUht0-qm0_kSAFGKFS5ctQcDxxEWjq2x3LI22qucmwUAkZFTxALbCcYsdnwiR-St1HuwMPJ4oWll4TdahiXiZ1a2kZ_PlbwyvFzmMg0sOdQ4iybnUeaLKhl9FenroMw/s640/P1060511.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Playing in the mud</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzEnkeIsc0stJvJ20wQTBgedMoy-RqTaeJ2qpAt9SZ9oN_01cOFUb2eHwHQBXB7kD29gIroU_CGvb34QGkoEb6PN097QC6uToMPbp4cobvooW4qlhXz2wGBWynaXtDoSm2v40Y4zgVXSO6/s1600/P1060512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzEnkeIsc0stJvJ20wQTBgedMoy-RqTaeJ2qpAt9SZ9oN_01cOFUb2eHwHQBXB7kD29gIroU_CGvb34QGkoEb6PN097QC6uToMPbp4cobvooW4qlhXz2wGBWynaXtDoSm2v40Y4zgVXSO6/s640/P1060512.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost done</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Before I knew it, I'd run 2:30 hours!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_gAgIj0f99hvCkxaWnANYPuXJqhJ9R3cQyyQv4voXRA57VbJziJvaP0aaqNi0Sz-Wz8DF7Xbkjj5XG9_t_luBNbKS_1L915IyhIV_oUPmbCAQiyHeDa0k8iDRj3-lqN_I9CcYFl7I91v/s1600/P1060515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_gAgIj0f99hvCkxaWnANYPuXJqhJ9R3cQyyQv4voXRA57VbJziJvaP0aaqNi0Sz-Wz8DF7Xbkjj5XG9_t_luBNbKS_1L915IyhIV_oUPmbCAQiyHeDa0k8iDRj3-lqN_I9CcYFl7I91v/s640/P1060515.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Aid Stations</u></b><br />
Ed and Nikki and their daughter were helping out at the aid station at the top of the stairs. It was nice to see some familiar faces as I came through the area.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzpWHFUhc8PmpisCrpWLiaOu9y3YjXWpmtCTi6lj5UdPe8PJW7V9C6cDsH5oe50V-6lBEWLEOvr57nqWzuqm3yEFJzeXtv7k7wpfCLOAO6zBbUaXNC3F5cV8988XBE8suPBUzqz5WiKNlo/s1600/P1060495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzpWHFUhc8PmpisCrpWLiaOu9y3YjXWpmtCTi6lj5UdPe8PJW7V9C6cDsH5oe50V-6lBEWLEOvr57nqWzuqm3yEFJzeXtv7k7wpfCLOAO6zBbUaXNC3F5cV8988XBE8suPBUzqz5WiKNlo/s640/P1060495.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ed and Nikki volunteering at aid station 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There was also an unmanned aid station for anyone that wanted additional water. Good idea. As mentioned, the other aid station was at the start/finish area.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB8E-vYoJcWHVbRZ0uGKzpF9TqN2UAI4qzRVPfllQbYQ-0GUMdg024NwHWjTXMSCazELRfYZdKwO5exa-_QWgPR7HXeqZMe_59acTz1MQzxMKFgvxkFXQhpOatlRA5t2TsP_ubI-VRZXhm/s1600/P1060468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB8E-vYoJcWHVbRZ0uGKzpF9TqN2UAI4qzRVPfllQbYQ-0GUMdg024NwHWjTXMSCazELRfYZdKwO5exa-_QWgPR7HXeqZMe_59acTz1MQzxMKFgvxkFXQhpOatlRA5t2TsP_ubI-VRZXhm/s640/P1060468.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unmanned aid station 3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Finish Area</u></b><br />
The finish area was right back at the start. The race had bananas and fruit bars as well as water for the runners. Pam and I talked for a few minutes but I was soaked and getting cold so I didn't stay around too long.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi24fdcQEFYhAZg8QUggd7SBMeDLO344bwUGOoU1q1OyaDTRDslMRUBYJNEGLhn3yXjbCD5JQ7ZpLJ8VZPxJTsZBmw6SgyL6-NpgnXtUi2wCDqVZ7w947p-5RdNhtgHp44L_uqyqWzriuAp/s1600/P1060517.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi24fdcQEFYhAZg8QUggd7SBMeDLO344bwUGOoU1q1OyaDTRDslMRUBYJNEGLhn3yXjbCD5JQ7ZpLJ8VZPxJTsZBmw6SgyL6-NpgnXtUi2wCDqVZ7w947p-5RdNhtgHp44L_uqyqWzriuAp/s640/P1060517.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<u><b>Amenities</b></u><br />
For your race entry (I paid $65 plus fees), you received a flagged course with finish line food. Timing was pull tag given the small size of the race which made sense and the time pretty much matched my watch.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKkz5dGPRJ3JEQrAG0i-7A1nE-_0PTXRWBgYA1g3jNwyR8GC-gai8-SCUu6NWhKDOXJiuoknRfRV3AMz_LP_ZceZtGX4lYoNec_qPQSoYd-u_5T6GKtXP_PYWCDoLy5cCjBU0XQt4_baIm/s1600/DSC_0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKkz5dGPRJ3JEQrAG0i-7A1nE-_0PTXRWBgYA1g3jNwyR8GC-gai8-SCUu6NWhKDOXJiuoknRfRV3AMz_LP_ZceZtGX4lYoNec_qPQSoYd-u_5T6GKtXP_PYWCDoLy5cCjBU0XQt4_baIm/s640/DSC_0004.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bib</td></tr>
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You also received a finisher medal with the race name on it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO8RP5jJq95XY6ZgdbjSHtq3oaJG0nDx601r-fkDE8qP1_iTnMvzGWBtLJhiaJ-Yv7LemOkinZVRQkKm4oQEzaVDPVpsD8hUFDw6yrAI6SPCcrszezejLujelL_fy5kE3dtZze3v8myvP0/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO8RP5jJq95XY6ZgdbjSHtq3oaJG0nDx601r-fkDE8qP1_iTnMvzGWBtLJhiaJ-Yv7LemOkinZVRQkKm4oQEzaVDPVpsD8hUFDw6yrAI6SPCcrszezejLujelL_fy5kE3dtZze3v8myvP0/s640/DSC_0001.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medal</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLvAucYXK8Lpqt7LV4K5UVNDjkK3p1DsCPyDWcPwFBazY9hTbZ6XM3sikVuIaxjMU9MtWKL2E1eUh_pmT2IDZ3f_L8-D-XkrLysdmgMM-Yz0SmKTdb0PU-N_Xpq3MJlxi89IWPO76jULSM/s1600/DSC_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLvAucYXK8Lpqt7LV4K5UVNDjkK3p1DsCPyDWcPwFBazY9hTbZ6XM3sikVuIaxjMU9MtWKL2E1eUh_pmT2IDZ3f_L8-D-XkrLysdmgMM-Yz0SmKTdb0PU-N_Xpq3MJlxi89IWPO76jULSM/s640/DSC_0003.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medal close up</td></tr>
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While the medal was not a really exciting design, I can see that the race chose to spend their money on the sweatshirts. They did a great job with the sweatshirts. I like the color and they are made well. It's also awesome to have something other than another tech t-shirt. Awards were for the top 5 overall who won a nice medal pint glass.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZOzIw7rXdXOeqrpKf9agR9ASWDsGhUcMACMjleEH6vtjasEExoS1OfSg8oOtGgabkKkV9pSvN6fcI_LOCNiXQtEjw41J-h2IHb2lUPZkTD61oxgbVBkvPtNdd_5IIyq6u8TjVQnASHEhC/s1600/DSC_0006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZOzIw7rXdXOeqrpKf9agR9ASWDsGhUcMACMjleEH6vtjasEExoS1OfSg8oOtGgabkKkV9pSvN6fcI_LOCNiXQtEjw41J-h2IHb2lUPZkTD61oxgbVBkvPtNdd_5IIyq6u8TjVQnASHEhC/s640/DSC_0006.jpg" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great sweatshirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Organization</u></b><br />
Organization of the race was well done. The race website had information on the race as well as race day information. The director did some announcements before the race (although they could use a microphone). The course markings were excellent. The aid stations were good and well placed with great volunteers. The finish line was well organized.<br />
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<b><u>Overall</u></b><br />
Overall, I'm glad I decided to run this race. I hesitated to run it just because I do run Bloomer for my regular training runs, however, I'm really glad that I did. I ran some parts of Bloomer that I've not run before which is nice. The course was very nice and had some real challenge to it. There were more hills than I thought. The sweatshirts were awesome and I'm happy I ran it just to get one of those. The race, <b><u><a href="http://move-itfitnessllc.com/">Move-It Fitness</a></u></b>, did a great job. They also have numerous other races throughout the year and I'm sure I'll run more of their races in the future. If you are looking for more trails races, this is one you should check out.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq8L0XnUipNk7uGaeHhU7kooKMqv7dOo4lNqnQLMosQ4vaFg2DG0Ye0YqthIbuUeyNFJzKiSp3fDGZlR3Uj1FfxXXGPcxoYLqUD3ZoQxyrSyLUYANAj5thN-F0ef7qxwuzIMSrUJ8E9hmf/s1600/P1060516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq8L0XnUipNk7uGaeHhU7kooKMqv7dOo4lNqnQLMosQ4vaFg2DG0Ye0YqthIbuUeyNFJzKiSp3fDGZlR3Uj1FfxXXGPcxoYLqUD3ZoQxyrSyLUYANAj5thN-F0ef7qxwuzIMSrUJ8E9hmf/s640/P1060516.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another finish!</td></tr>
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Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I paid for this race with my own funds. All opinions are my own.</span>Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-19317935799552895902016-09-26T14:29:00.000-04:002016-09-26T14:29:28.261-04:00Oak Openings Stampede 25k race review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb95Mjc1WSlinNFWi96GW5fbQGqlqDTAxdXBNiUeXeegsWHte3aFhMo2Gr8VqfglMcZ9mH-qXFZqZb4rqUZ7cj-S8BEmW4BQDe-dJc07TqquoSYTEUfiXojaYOYTYPxvmj2u2LY2n53YYu/s1600/DSC_0001+copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb95Mjc1WSlinNFWi96GW5fbQGqlqDTAxdXBNiUeXeegsWHte3aFhMo2Gr8VqfglMcZ9mH-qXFZqZb4rqUZ7cj-S8BEmW4BQDe-dJc07TqquoSYTEUfiXojaYOYTYPxvmj2u2LY2n53YYu/s640/DSC_0001+copy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Short Version</u></b><br />
Finished in 2:50:08 (official time); no new PR<br />
Overall Place: 93/140<br />
Men 40-49: 15/20<br />
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Timed race #116<br />
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A new race to me. I've only done a few other 25k's and it's a great distance. The park was awesome and the course was really nice and very flat. The race was well organized and not a big race which is also nice. I would definitely run this one again.<br />
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<b><u>Long Version</u></b><br />
<b><u>Registration/Packet Pickup</u></b><br />
Registration was online and very simple. You could pick your packet up at the local running store or the day of the race. Because it's about an hour and 45 minutes away, my running buddy, Kevin and I opted to pick up our race packet that morning. There were two volunteers helping and we were done quickly.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Registration inside this very nice structure with real bathrooms</td></tr>
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The race had the course map set up which was basically a 25k loop around the park.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map of course</td></tr>
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<b><u>Start Area</u></b><br />
We got there a little early and was able to look around. The park itself (Oak Openings) is incredible. This is a very nice place. I wish it were closer to us as I'd love it if I could run this course regularly. They had a lake that I think was man-made but really very nice. The fog was still burning off when we got there. It was very humid the entire race.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake with the fog</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish line set up</td></tr>
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The start was basically a sign to start. Got of love small races!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXe_QOfMUxlSkAq-hfw4duHWxlp3832EYuOiCvdIOEhMSZETWcg8EDPVnwp8YelUgGXPOxBPTi3kg9OC41GFeApM48Ay13efeJFm6bd684BWlcOqarq9ooe0F2lu2txijPMCF7VcJpZT9N/s1600/P1060325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXe_QOfMUxlSkAq-hfw4duHWxlp3832EYuOiCvdIOEhMSZETWcg8EDPVnwp8YelUgGXPOxBPTi3kg9OC41GFeApM48Ay13efeJFm6bd684BWlcOqarq9ooe0F2lu2txijPMCF7VcJpZT9N/s640/P1060325.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start line</td></tr>
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There was an area by the lake where we waited to start. The 50k went off first then 25k then 5k. There was about 30 minutes between races. Given the small size of the races, we really could have started 10-15 minutes later.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Runners ready to run</td></tr>
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It was nice to have a 9am start though since we live so far away. We probably would have left even later had packet pickup stayed open until the race start.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We lined up about 70% back</td></tr>
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<u><b>Course</b></u><br />
The course was a flat, well marked trail. While the race marked the trails, there were also yellow dots to keep you on track that were part of the regular trail system. The race did a good job stating that for us in case we got lost (and there was not real way to get lost)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXusfniaTkcUOBGyaazxlXFXD-6tBW9BuAc4tgidKL9_tyzxqL87KFZGLlAAT3yIeiwTJPE0ICqJCuM_kZwkEOSKyQPjeSW4R4XyUpsasAtx8NsizirTxW3Cp35c0vE1zRYJTUhDYwPzap/s1600/map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXusfniaTkcUOBGyaazxlXFXD-6tBW9BuAc4tgidKL9_tyzxqL87KFZGLlAAT3yIeiwTJPE0ICqJCuM_kZwkEOSKyQPjeSW4R4XyUpsasAtx8NsizirTxW3Cp35c0vE1zRYJTUhDYwPzap/s640/map.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Course</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjlgskOe25v4pIduTBOmboQ0HKaqlBLrG5pZcdqlD_QxVYECmnk5MCv2WjownOc4ywSdtqj-DjU-Q2Hsy48T06vxS4wO7K3sITcHVouSV7OGltyeizq-Bf6L7MGaNdvJ_3z1Xc91r5qW7O/s1600/elevation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjlgskOe25v4pIduTBOmboQ0HKaqlBLrG5pZcdqlD_QxVYECmnk5MCv2WjownOc4ywSdtqj-DjU-Q2Hsy48T06vxS4wO7K3sITcHVouSV7OGltyeizq-Bf6L7MGaNdvJ_3z1Xc91r5qW7O/s640/elevation.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elevation - very flat!</td></tr>
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I had no goals in mind other than just enjoy the race. This was my longest run in quite awhile since my last marathon was in June. Kevin and I ran about 10 miles of the course together.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJL-McX_g6G6jNMSC2S-YuxiJXZUhcpytJdSzGBFNEB6i2rCaUx6hc0YvR_5_s4d7cfD64yGGQGYf1IooRmq_qQw_MlTItDMDJn9BF2LTjyPUmqOWl9iit2noiSuHXI69t9mM4i4JYExoh/s1600/splits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJL-McX_g6G6jNMSC2S-YuxiJXZUhcpytJdSzGBFNEB6i2rCaUx6hc0YvR_5_s4d7cfD64yGGQGYf1IooRmq_qQw_MlTItDMDJn9BF2LTjyPUmqOWl9iit2noiSuHXI69t9mM4i4JYExoh/s640/splits.jpg" width="164" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Splits</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With a sound of the horn, the runners were off!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT2de37v28PJBtwoWGFWxQorceuM22p_osvk8u3MNk7y16Vnk8hAKJIZ7dXaMBQDWvRwFQIoc-2phahfEhBv9HfALohbPJiDXlpHQ3MmwYNCGZyjVjtbOCqqnhfe9Ipp8kk-YPvB-_rDP7/s1600/P1060333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT2de37v28PJBtwoWGFWxQorceuM22p_osvk8u3MNk7y16Vnk8hAKJIZ7dXaMBQDWvRwFQIoc-2phahfEhBv9HfALohbPJiDXlpHQ3MmwYNCGZyjVjtbOCqqnhfe9Ipp8kk-YPvB-_rDP7/s640/P1060333.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little back up at the start</td></tr>
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While there was a little backup at the start, it quickly thinned out.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM3lLAI7WWEy1oid8VDX9s1Z1v6EoH_cMfZ4R_jBG6qRAz2DIp3PcTYCS39co13AvwT1pSXcn9M6uk9UCg8iWz5-ez5SK6Owmx1j9J3fnvOvOHHMywK87_GoxiwA0AK_hoqjOiiLiD89xN/s1600/P1060335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM3lLAI7WWEy1oid8VDX9s1Z1v6EoH_cMfZ4R_jBG6qRAz2DIp3PcTYCS39co13AvwT1pSXcn9M6uk9UCg8iWz5-ez5SK6Owmx1j9J3fnvOvOHHMywK87_GoxiwA0AK_hoqjOiiLiD89xN/s640/P1060335.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running over the bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The course itself had some nice variety in it too. We had trails, gravel, grass, and some asphalt.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqrQOxWg9PKjh5r2N0o-UM6BEbpbJRek4XvvdnnWIpU9frMQrQnkoUSv91iu6T-2sPuXo6_BjY3TpCTKYeS7KppHWZIbOuHjlYYABQZ6-dtpYhAI8tN8QGFoQzToDsdcznDDC59xUl2xY/s1600/P1060336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqrQOxWg9PKjh5r2N0o-UM6BEbpbJRek4XvvdnnWIpU9frMQrQnkoUSv91iu6T-2sPuXo6_BjY3TpCTKYeS7KppHWZIbOuHjlYYABQZ6-dtpYhAI8tN8QGFoQzToDsdcznDDC59xUl2xY/s640/P1060336.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still foggy at the start</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This area on the asphalt was kind of strange in that we were on it for awhile. I don't know the area so I wasn't sure if we could get on trails here or not. Regardless, it was not too long on asphalt.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdSEVQaE6L7Upz7m_QU3yK2g42ozisj3YB5pYde5RvZZ_P-U8z_4pnkhHtPbwiS2JQAtcA2FIEB7GnyeMzUS3p9JhPYmmmdw9dp0egHZ2Pcg_jHiSVTTg8NNWpbW-6LTKoMPPuOB0Nq8uz/s1600/P1060341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdSEVQaE6L7Upz7m_QU3yK2g42ozisj3YB5pYde5RvZZ_P-U8z_4pnkhHtPbwiS2JQAtcA2FIEB7GnyeMzUS3p9JhPYmmmdw9dp0egHZ2Pcg_jHiSVTTg8NNWpbW-6LTKoMPPuOB0Nq8uz/s640/P1060341.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Asphalt section</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOZk3qBNebuJZmb48-JsWH9sp6_vprstAzddAiOGgzCfzX7lTf74lxEHQm2_GiFUD59uSNvsXh_l3HbIPvu1h7BH26uwL2E0JHlsOkrQq-cpGucatX7RKQVTKccqXIj9gRJ4x4XVGvN5N_/s1600/P1060344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOZk3qBNebuJZmb48-JsWH9sp6_vprstAzddAiOGgzCfzX7lTf74lxEHQm2_GiFUD59uSNvsXh_l3HbIPvu1h7BH26uwL2E0JHlsOkrQq-cpGucatX7RKQVTKccqXIj9gRJ4x4XVGvN5N_/s640/P1060344.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kevin was enjoying himself</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was then onto the trails. There is single track but much of the course is wide track which made for some easy passing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlfWXnyYoRhFh_lHYG-NNxcFqt3oJWjeo9V3G_Dz6fE4v0JW2QwCZOYcjatD-gbiCr74LUJCcuUCirZGpmJoMaLmETrYQL_qoSnoakInIah7ECeCi7JsoKgPJNc7_2oRGuhVHAqG1yb1cW/s1600/P1060347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlfWXnyYoRhFh_lHYG-NNxcFqt3oJWjeo9V3G_Dz6fE4v0JW2QwCZOYcjatD-gbiCr74LUJCcuUCirZGpmJoMaLmETrYQL_qoSnoakInIah7ECeCi7JsoKgPJNc7_2oRGuhVHAqG1yb1cW/s640/P1060347.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaRlC1DWFGJqfmKzXaeykMeB23cr_y6USICWUmAqmRWFSLBuuSzDNmbYKZpsNxPhmDq2q_NEbm-DS0OLhoNRiCVTA8eq-gOjChCrDR9AhPRXI7IWiMXY49yWRVCVmwNIBqUtOJwxjhSjhA/s1600/P1060357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="528" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaRlC1DWFGJqfmKzXaeykMeB23cr_y6USICWUmAqmRWFSLBuuSzDNmbYKZpsNxPhmDq2q_NEbm-DS0OLhoNRiCVTA8eq-gOjChCrDR9AhPRXI7IWiMXY49yWRVCVmwNIBqUtOJwxjhSjhA/s640/P1060357.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The woods were really beautiful and I bet this looks amazing in the Fall.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWCdTJPkiTXx3kaGkyLckXSURno3_EfZ6mEmTfYRIlP2He2HPWkUTLY6ORVJKIufQD6xgmiHaIQaBVVN_MN-isB2IxKJBMWbCZz37QC53oKzg3cZnBof5pZlOPiMkE-vtjDsmeR8KfYzQb/s1600/P1060359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWCdTJPkiTXx3kaGkyLckXSURno3_EfZ6mEmTfYRIlP2He2HPWkUTLY6ORVJKIufQD6xgmiHaIQaBVVN_MN-isB2IxKJBMWbCZz37QC53oKzg3cZnBof5pZlOPiMkE-vtjDsmeR8KfYzQb/s640/P1060359.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me just plugging along</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We were on what was called the Scout Trail. They had these cool markers out there. There were also horse trails. About mile 2-3 we encountered some yellow jackets. The race had warned us on their website that past runners have gotten stung. I was fortunate enough to only get one sting. My buddy ended up with 6 stings. Yikes!!!! We saw the girl in front of us running off the trail screaming and we had no clue what was happening until we got stung. We could hear people behind us scream as well. Fortunately this was the only place we encountered this.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlroTqrggaU8vkGSxAWh2ymAyLkZOItimx-_A0bDD6BStozqMLBh9tQGSAlKrM58Agpd6Jm4ZQ9Uh2dxk91P3ruojDZMAvNHrrgbt53ObKP6kmcOdBYA0HCCGNBDNtcr5XxzA92yWlwZhf/s1600/P1060363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlroTqrggaU8vkGSxAWh2ymAyLkZOItimx-_A0bDD6BStozqMLBh9tQGSAlKrM58Agpd6Jm4ZQ9Uh2dxk91P3ruojDZMAvNHrrgbt53ObKP6kmcOdBYA0HCCGNBDNtcr5XxzA92yWlwZhf/s640/P1060363.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cool trail marker</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There was a small asphalt section that looked like not many people ran on regularly.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWkI8yiuAhEK4GDiYmnkQ7wfulfTjJAxRUGctpSdU9jSjA3B1TZc9oRGCEdGgMwMIefjnX2KMz5fHjXRaNXnt6OzT2DhtUzJzzlnJVdY5fC3qZof3dSraSzE6vHtK3-Uue9kJ9899G3CLV/s1600/P1060367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWkI8yiuAhEK4GDiYmnkQ7wfulfTjJAxRUGctpSdU9jSjA3B1TZc9oRGCEdGgMwMIefjnX2KMz5fHjXRaNXnt6OzT2DhtUzJzzlnJVdY5fC3qZof3dSraSzE6vHtK3-Uue9kJ9899G3CLV/s640/P1060367.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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It was interesting that we ran up right next to the road but it was short lived and headed back into the woods quickly.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLtaTFN_GXKOhwfvrTpShiw_-jrVse56DENQLDud7kW3rTJWtuKAFSdAjXgRTwrv0gWe8QtT1LI_f8KbXe0MfudNzwSXmCyfrloCvm_axkcE4fAYL7h-O-myzmgal891PtLdx1AIFrhmX4/s1600/P1060370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLtaTFN_GXKOhwfvrTpShiw_-jrVse56DENQLDud7kW3rTJWtuKAFSdAjXgRTwrv0gWe8QtT1LI_f8KbXe0MfudNzwSXmCyfrloCvm_axkcE4fAYL7h-O-myzmgal891PtLdx1AIFrhmX4/s640/P1060370.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Next to the road</td></tr>
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There were some homes in the area that were right near where we were running. What a nice place to live if you like to run trails.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6zHz3s-yp_k42Otg60NwfWGS-SXG4Sd8gS1eBEMiQuqy1vMGr7JDG8IjQi6gqIVeoeb0RQpLBY6S8CyWG5QWxJX7I-RavRqpBasgW3oUU7qQ8GVAXZmaqX7UhzgLh2gQVS5G7_47BrwYV/s1600/P1060371.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6zHz3s-yp_k42Otg60NwfWGS-SXG4Sd8gS1eBEMiQuqy1vMGr7JDG8IjQi6gqIVeoeb0RQpLBY6S8CyWG5QWxJX7I-RavRqpBasgW3oUU7qQ8GVAXZmaqX7UhzgLh2gQVS5G7_47BrwYV/s640/P1060371.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cool bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We then headed into some grassy areas. This was not easy running as the footing was not good.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizuk8qzRasqAdQ1vOBuBEC2yW1xg6K2McMF_uHurB9D9TEaWQXYXTAYEotEzUFn1RFch39sluNLBau6UxUvoybVuUY3tHm7TPm1C2JnMTU4BmFBQYYAV3trFcfPIapeBXWTFe7CCRSTH94/s1600/P1060374.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizuk8qzRasqAdQ1vOBuBEC2yW1xg6K2McMF_uHurB9D9TEaWQXYXTAYEotEzUFn1RFch39sluNLBau6UxUvoybVuUY3tHm7TPm1C2JnMTU4BmFBQYYAV3trFcfPIapeBXWTFe7CCRSTH94/s640/P1060374.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uneven ground</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqBY0RVYSbstOhYFshZugG7rygoKtWqL3ai3_WU2gER0rYuyrSULM53oFy2BGLrUst58EyROjvVyw6TLro1f5pl7BHwm9jCekwm9OVWl2LIGHochlUhI7tKid6sltCoxlwJpW5_Q13C_Y/s1600/P1060376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqBY0RVYSbstOhYFshZugG7rygoKtWqL3ai3_WU2gER0rYuyrSULM53oFy2BGLrUst58EyROjvVyw6TLro1f5pl7BHwm9jCekwm9OVWl2LIGHochlUhI7tKid6sltCoxlwJpW5_Q13C_Y/s640/P1060376.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another bridge to run over</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We even ran over some steps in the area. We went down them though as I turned around to get a picture of them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtYx50uJg0aVZkSFehWoQiqEj3nT7Qn2r8YD5xt4aunRG04eE0WGYNKno_ADBWUAhvbD3w9OvBgfiFarK1rNS_44-P2gqOINCLEHO6cwBp5McifbfrhUflvG8T5IY7Ur_9-x5Ah7rH73Su/s1600/P1060381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtYx50uJg0aVZkSFehWoQiqEj3nT7Qn2r8YD5xt4aunRG04eE0WGYNKno_ADBWUAhvbD3w9OvBgfiFarK1rNS_44-P2gqOINCLEHO6cwBp5McifbfrhUflvG8T5IY7Ur_9-x5Ah7rH73Su/s640/P1060381.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steps on the course</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then the trail shifted to some two track for a little bit<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhElDq5SFnLU_Vz_BlNTsIUIxLaah2CpJ4kq6wgXz5aYMir2paRbPv4QAZzNOzIwVKbROuuTAIP0AQq1NOuDK5aqS6SDORQv_ReuIlvMB5iyApvdAkhx8Cg7waQKv7STIPZS8cfmwtvtXTQ/s1600/P1060382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhElDq5SFnLU_Vz_BlNTsIUIxLaah2CpJ4kq6wgXz5aYMir2paRbPv4QAZzNOzIwVKbROuuTAIP0AQq1NOuDK5aqS6SDORQv_ReuIlvMB5iyApvdAkhx8Cg7waQKv7STIPZS8cfmwtvtXTQ/s640/P1060382.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two track</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Thankfully we headed back into the woods quickly.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Q5tb7xvCJ4cwlWx2qtTo8F7-QV6y7VjiAuCV485DxNFKwDLJP464B8Y4Fl8YSQ_C6z_eG4SIxlWEiHxlG0zmaUwLj-mE-i_0eg2B50TJDzxW07kHIiADtPzN02TIz73fBpV5yMSKcdyU/s1600/P1060389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Q5tb7xvCJ4cwlWx2qtTo8F7-QV6y7VjiAuCV485DxNFKwDLJP464B8Y4Fl8YSQ_C6z_eG4SIxlWEiHxlG0zmaUwLj-mE-i_0eg2B50TJDzxW07kHIiADtPzN02TIz73fBpV5yMSKcdyU/s640/P1060389.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another awesome area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWMpXbqaZ4Z4CfJKEjdZ2it8xHjc-C8RLiqpAYFK0lLcL5x-FQ4BeLx-aH6o8UUO_R3l-TZBHKt9OLReeT5Bnw_kBcm_gico4eDYUc-0HFI5V9E6XtJhylfrOdSlKkR9Esm5mNzCKOZYs5/s1600/P1060392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWMpXbqaZ4Z4CfJKEjdZ2it8xHjc-C8RLiqpAYFK0lLcL5x-FQ4BeLx-aH6o8UUO_R3l-TZBHKt9OLReeT5Bnw_kBcm_gico4eDYUc-0HFI5V9E6XtJhylfrOdSlKkR9Esm5mNzCKOZYs5/s640/P1060392.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some nice single track</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Kevin decided he wanted to take a break and told me to go ahead so I ran the rest of the course alone.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_3H8KC4a_2I46bh8OmAnelTvrUpEOzB42lqJb2Q2W9x1lFlwd4AEzl_w4S6xO803MU5U7Nbl8oKiy_sware3eNSGwuaBFgpJTLYmWrb9DvBOmxEBelCE_VNasYAgpP3CFst613WH47j-/s1600/P1060394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_3H8KC4a_2I46bh8OmAnelTvrUpEOzB42lqJb2Q2W9x1lFlwd4AEzl_w4S6xO803MU5U7Nbl8oKiy_sware3eNSGwuaBFgpJTLYmWrb9DvBOmxEBelCE_VNasYAgpP3CFst613WH47j-/s640/P1060394.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">50k ran the course twice</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The variety of the trail was really great. You always felt like you were on different trails along the way.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR3Pj1ybTa6bGv4I-k-vacpePLeeTLETqLjX-8Jnnt9kKKso93g0vtoPzB7m1qmG3c4ft4wqegMHVhgyIakTq9UdUEwiqlKS79M0UxNnyM2Vuw_vq1OdZgZ2zTzahfiNBkMp54Yl2W2qEm/s1600/P1060396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR3Pj1ybTa6bGv4I-k-vacpePLeeTLETqLjX-8Jnnt9kKKso93g0vtoPzB7m1qmG3c4ft4wqegMHVhgyIakTq9UdUEwiqlKS79M0UxNnyM2Vuw_vq1OdZgZ2zTzahfiNBkMp54Yl2W2qEm/s640/P1060396.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sun coming out. Yellow dot marking trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Ry1Q1hGcjFoLqzIAuKza4eujtwKq308OybWwU3VnJGWTczfZ5e7f35qgFKUVpd1Wg_7RUeCAFThBZJ9X9XRhjLJyvqGKU_F_g8oDelBAQOi_ESIYY1hak-wHFathdVWqBp4Ii-sCWJk8/s1600/P1060398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Ry1Q1hGcjFoLqzIAuKza4eujtwKq308OybWwU3VnJGWTczfZ5e7f35qgFKUVpd1Wg_7RUeCAFThBZJ9X9XRhjLJyvqGKU_F_g8oDelBAQOi_ESIYY1hak-wHFathdVWqBp4Ii-sCWJk8/s640/P1060398.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wide trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvleZ08LoL67rmne0AbAWWcnlO5zT9CH9d1AYYR-BuPmo_pVtfHOef1EhNNtvVqY2jHw9G4TanHOGrwaij3NQG9cdqnMKE4QO0sv1q3Np9hicVMpI2JB8RH1V8sPUVefhX0nfxDjCLQ4uC/s1600/P1060401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvleZ08LoL67rmne0AbAWWcnlO5zT9CH9d1AYYR-BuPmo_pVtfHOef1EhNNtvVqY2jHw9G4TanHOGrwaij3NQG9cdqnMKE4QO0sv1q3Np9hicVMpI2JB8RH1V8sPUVefhX0nfxDjCLQ4uC/s640/P1060401.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some single track</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We crossed the road here by a prairie and headed back into the woods again.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSR_teA1eFQZF_rjIjVl1NqOaCdN1s95h8AlTFnZfbRmcPNsYMjtRqFImbzwOb9bKeGaxZkbmX5L1R97EOu8Qg_852RIIdSgw1CG8Bm0zrUUAlloOnDpPWNFPRH5dkDcyncANQxbkYAMKa/s1600/P1060404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSR_teA1eFQZF_rjIjVl1NqOaCdN1s95h8AlTFnZfbRmcPNsYMjtRqFImbzwOb9bKeGaxZkbmX5L1R97EOu8Qg_852RIIdSgw1CG8Bm0zrUUAlloOnDpPWNFPRH5dkDcyncANQxbkYAMKa/s640/P1060404.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prairie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtEmRoEysqYpdAE_hkNUiqPiHSEv8lPfoVPa9R9xGQxc91GlJj5qovUMb-30fNmIDG09dCArm7rkTmaDAr-DegFg8yGThXBKQoQK16i7WjdgeH9N8KWf5REYKybddJbObRbGB3daq9Qt_C/s1600/P1060405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtEmRoEysqYpdAE_hkNUiqPiHSEv8lPfoVPa9R9xGQxc91GlJj5qovUMb-30fNmIDG09dCArm7rkTmaDAr-DegFg8yGThXBKQoQK16i7WjdgeH9N8KWf5REYKybddJbObRbGB3daq9Qt_C/s640/P1060405.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzQAb-LmAym4X8jNsb1zViQROy89wGoliN0EXXzhRlAoTE3PsgdZmmp4-aoGb-AvPR3nZzc-3UKR2KGPzj0ok-q3rSH0XbyKGVWHHYvzgQPKPnnqgP0TrgRkVS9jZw7GjKwDf-XNJU_R3U/s1600/P1060406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzQAb-LmAym4X8jNsb1zViQROy89wGoliN0EXXzhRlAoTE3PsgdZmmp4-aoGb-AvPR3nZzc-3UKR2KGPzj0ok-q3rSH0XbyKGVWHHYvzgQPKPnnqgP0TrgRkVS9jZw7GjKwDf-XNJU_R3U/s640/P1060406.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This area of the trail reminds me of a section of the North Country Trail I run in Northern Michigan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Soon we were coming around near the lake where the finish was. We got to run around the lake.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin30d3vjEqSv9GO_fZ_0jQEtLWz1fKv5IK7FyI_5gYkFZBMc6CMFu12HKLflkRmkatGmli1hIwj_DmiWULl2b7qLbQiOOUxAlBZZXEeZbsHQ7rpLwfTXDHFtHUvmawXgdqGdu8hOMSZw6M/s1600/P1060407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin30d3vjEqSv9GO_fZ_0jQEtLWz1fKv5IK7FyI_5gYkFZBMc6CMFu12HKLflkRmkatGmli1hIwj_DmiWULl2b7qLbQiOOUxAlBZZXEeZbsHQ7rpLwfTXDHFtHUvmawXgdqGdu8hOMSZw6M/s640/P1060407.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Structures with picnic area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPIA86Q5pIM8EPIeyNgzPIy5aPoOM_PCZJ8S947079j4T6iCbK_NtnyiHcI9yNvoqFZvXmNWWnVbGa9MuDqbFbugwwztVRviGiW8TjWUXyOAjfLsZWu2nc3Yv0d572TlBGn4n3hENRYYlR/s1600/P1060408.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPIA86Q5pIM8EPIeyNgzPIy5aPoOM_PCZJ8S947079j4T6iCbK_NtnyiHcI9yNvoqFZvXmNWWnVbGa9MuDqbFbugwwztVRviGiW8TjWUXyOAjfLsZWu2nc3Yv0d572TlBGn4n3hENRYYlR/s640/P1060408.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swampy area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Another nice bridge to cross over as we were getting closer to the finish line.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpo6UGQf4PSzrsICgBIYcWqqlLDkiaV9aHTlZ184DEGV4KibITXawneWI0FRfewSfL1kdF-vX2hcWdb_K228T0YHmA1d7jiTqFIC089agu7VSh10ENfMX9qQ8kWYqbiO_TbgN5xpxdsRkO/s1600/P1060412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpo6UGQf4PSzrsICgBIYcWqqlLDkiaV9aHTlZ184DEGV4KibITXawneWI0FRfewSfL1kdF-vX2hcWdb_K228T0YHmA1d7jiTqFIC089agu7VSh10ENfMX9qQ8kWYqbiO_TbgN5xpxdsRkO/s640/P1060412.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I stopped to take a picture of this huge tree next to the trail. Really nice!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcpJcbPGzvLAdaI5e4nXqJtZu7sVGaJ157mD0k0uxPUOyhGrWOsVg2pGESIKjjcOAUKWS2_B8V2QlY09XanDzN3y3zrQKwZ36_fSM9ewbSEIdZ9UkR4nzWms9dXuzL-ZTxAXurWVa9U6zb/s1600/P1060413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcpJcbPGzvLAdaI5e4nXqJtZu7sVGaJ157mD0k0uxPUOyhGrWOsVg2pGESIKjjcOAUKWS2_B8V2QlY09XanDzN3y3zrQKwZ36_fSM9ewbSEIdZ9UkR4nzWms9dXuzL-ZTxAXurWVa9U6zb/s640/P1060413.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Large tree</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieWl6L5tSIrLSmWHTFvlRQpKNIwBnAGWhirbN77P7zJ4eNT34-oW8dm0Hlr6L6i7vcCrrQTWaSBVzAfRWRkQCp5W_rYlsRPvtSaRI1AlATc_lCDxjPpk9fymEg1xyhEQ8VegIc2AD0cRWa/s1600/P1060414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieWl6L5tSIrLSmWHTFvlRQpKNIwBnAGWhirbN77P7zJ4eNT34-oW8dm0Hlr6L6i7vcCrrQTWaSBVzAfRWRkQCp5W_rYlsRPvtSaRI1AlATc_lCDxjPpk9fymEg1xyhEQ8VegIc2AD0cRWa/s640/P1060414.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nothing better than running through pines</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There was another short asphalt section and then I could finally see the finish line.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzxFhO3l2drQWpznZH3gEMQPhREcDoDK6xf5p_a3rwSspwqFBFL9Voij1ONuotgGMiniTOBPnDnXoAsRi-7Kn2F5UUHfw7ob6PxQx8ibsLf-Oop9FP_Gp2G2C1PG9U5vIwRQg9dMSCc8ax/s1600/P1060415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzxFhO3l2drQWpznZH3gEMQPhREcDoDK6xf5p_a3rwSspwqFBFL9Voij1ONuotgGMiniTOBPnDnXoAsRi-7Kn2F5UUHfw7ob6PxQx8ibsLf-Oop9FP_Gp2G2C1PG9U5vIwRQg9dMSCc8ax/s640/P1060415.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">People were cheering here for runners</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuynAYxY6GmvpG9Hj9PEKSTgHUs917yELo7AtP7TAN3-v8nRg7frhWs0q-EJ4h5Xv_neYsgBSDchwSBxZMDXJHvXbX9f8OJKF7XNvK6-nl4WlFXI-iqE6mL6Yc7U2oC1nCctkxBQE9P1M3/s1600/P1060418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuynAYxY6GmvpG9Hj9PEKSTgHUs917yELo7AtP7TAN3-v8nRg7frhWs0q-EJ4h5Xv_neYsgBSDchwSBxZMDXJHvXbX9f8OJKF7XNvK6-nl4WlFXI-iqE6mL6Yc7U2oC1nCctkxBQE9P1M3/s640/P1060418.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish line just past the bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Aid Stations</u></b><br />
The aid stations were well stocked especially given there was a 50k going on. The volunteers did a great job helping us runners.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGN1F0faBKmQye172oDyDga-ueMdwpOqaHK9ZWtWcYg1uX-QNyhCkAjDqrxq0o_pX3fVBDw3JqLYxYip_z3za90WMBo7B4y1EZgz5u6V5jVTdPnaJD2tv2kbWKx7XjLntdTN8TVMo2UoSY/s1600/P1060349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGN1F0faBKmQye172oDyDga-ueMdwpOqaHK9ZWtWcYg1uX-QNyhCkAjDqrxq0o_pX3fVBDw3JqLYxYip_z3za90WMBo7B4y1EZgz5u6V5jVTdPnaJD2tv2kbWKx7XjLntdTN8TVMo2UoSY/s640/P1060349.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aid station</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The aid station below was probably very busy. It was about 1/2 - 1 mile after the yellow jackets. One of the volunteers was helping a girl who got stung in the eye! As you can see, Kevin was hurting a bit from the SIX stings but pushed forward. Fortunately, the race had topical bee medicine which helped a little bit on the sting.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kp1m2uWC7TNe-SbaXX8DNDUmCwkHjcJ91hWKc9vunub0iVaAcllisV5KMxB8I_rINAFmuh7XkDwB57oHaUxUFpX2mme8D8Da5VhyphenhyphenLxQLgRnpeesmc7vTQQm0ErRBR9lPCYr5NJwpWtV3/s1600/P1060361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kp1m2uWC7TNe-SbaXX8DNDUmCwkHjcJ91hWKc9vunub0iVaAcllisV5KMxB8I_rINAFmuh7XkDwB57oHaUxUFpX2mme8D8Da5VhyphenhyphenLxQLgRnpeesmc7vTQQm0ErRBR9lPCYr5NJwpWtV3/s640/P1060361.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Busy aid station</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Finish Area</u></b><br />
The finish area was right where the start was located. The race had pancakes after the race but we decided to get a regular meal on the ride home.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsUfUOCcXP4TyRtbDi7kNQnYWNFPJCCrv2L73hd0ILI_JQOIW-M0yuVUJhBzlF8B4KFdi4wYEwne4fm5-z_YlGVaDRA50wr4lk0hEsv28V9XHlV_aCM55HNa-Hm3eq7OPLmjcNHe8L3vw/s1600/P1060428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsUfUOCcXP4TyRtbDi7kNQnYWNFPJCCrv2L73hd0ILI_JQOIW-M0yuVUJhBzlF8B4KFdi4wYEwne4fm5-z_YlGVaDRA50wr4lk0hEsv28V9XHlV_aCM55HNa-Hm3eq7OPLmjcNHe8L3vw/s640/P1060428.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A fun 25k</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Amenities</u></b><br />
For your entry, you received a marked and supported course. You received a bib with a timing chip, an awesome race medal and a very nice Brooks shirt. I love seeing that the race was able to offer all this for such a reasonable price($45 plus service fee).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjllQRmVPxFmyG2jCzdp7vlVVhskaf8FDm2jNNn_A1yC8XMy3ZGMbBjfIRdZLMY-sP-BaBxWz-qT5l1y6qGyZqo7lj8zYS44-G1fRKGLiATvVYNhFKd-JQFgOCMtFJ4LIdcCnn9edoS731k/s1600/DSC_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjllQRmVPxFmyG2jCzdp7vlVVhskaf8FDm2jNNn_A1yC8XMy3ZGMbBjfIRdZLMY-sP-BaBxWz-qT5l1y6qGyZqo7lj8zYS44-G1fRKGLiATvVYNhFKd-JQFgOCMtFJ4LIdcCnn9edoS731k/s640/DSC_0001.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race bib</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The race medal was really cool and was a piece of wood with the race information added to it. The ribbon was paracord. A perfect race medal for a trail race.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHx96geJdgVNQDIhvCCJHSf0XC_MJKFXA3EB1mSWReoYaduKJT-oSENysJQTI8YoEAHNsTXWLs7mkJAoQoxfNb-wLM_Puy7L23jfU7KdIUNurH2QDoKSdrphLth8b9sYQVvwvDXm2bU4J/s1600/DSC_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHx96geJdgVNQDIhvCCJHSf0XC_MJKFXA3EB1mSWReoYaduKJT-oSENysJQTI8YoEAHNsTXWLs7mkJAoQoxfNb-wLM_Puy7L23jfU7KdIUNurH2QDoKSdrphLth8b9sYQVvwvDXm2bU4J/s640/DSC_0003.jpg" width="566" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqLv19iuVRmYH0HtaVt0CtFFdDY_UD5V4tJosC0DBIf2mr1qSrUhUB027qJoVVrsdvsScDjwSpw8JAhjIqdOninrI9Xy1KFTjsMUxink0N-YaxFrK3k2WA4yMWv98rP34Qk4M9Z2CR0V-X/s1600/DSC_0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqLv19iuVRmYH0HtaVt0CtFFdDY_UD5V4tJosC0DBIf2mr1qSrUhUB027qJoVVrsdvsScDjwSpw8JAhjIqdOninrI9Xy1KFTjsMUxink0N-YaxFrK3k2WA4yMWv98rP34Qk4M9Z2CR0V-X/s640/DSC_0002.JPG" width="630" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medal close up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The race gave you a Brooks long sleeve tech shirt. In my opinion, Brooks tech shirts are the best shirts you can get at a race and I train in them often. I love when race offers them and it would definitely get me back if they keep that up. I remarked to Kevin that we run some very large races and those races don't even offer Brooks so it's nice to see when they are offered. I like the shirt since it's got a funny squirrel on it and I like bright colors since I run early in the mornings.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNNl4jQN5CXcltIpzlhofEN1xw_sqHa8sYY4FExEKElOEWySdwp3_ydUt1EUrQT0J72So208_51qBSp8v_8wVe7ZlgEHxNfSm9eeDDzIfpBtn8dTNjnD6FvQTrUeMv4GRD-6-fkC5s6T9i/s1600/DSC_0002+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNNl4jQN5CXcltIpzlhofEN1xw_sqHa8sYY4FExEKElOEWySdwp3_ydUt1EUrQT0J72So208_51qBSp8v_8wVe7ZlgEHxNfSm9eeDDzIfpBtn8dTNjnD6FvQTrUeMv4GRD-6-fkC5s6T9i/s640/DSC_0002+copy.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great tech shirt by Brooks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_eiSmyynyJf4DUYb2UDuP_UDMxs6G-phmYHXez5uTPh3EjWIej-VRkpNfOh8iI7LCON2Yrv5LoGPXl4umRa4HKIoT-lSIavYy1NU81PARRNdDQbaFV_A9QcYR-5awhcHQv9JVOTPGw0B6/s1600/DSC_0003+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_eiSmyynyJf4DUYb2UDuP_UDMxs6G-phmYHXez5uTPh3EjWIej-VRkpNfOh8iI7LCON2Yrv5LoGPXl4umRa4HKIoT-lSIavYy1NU81PARRNdDQbaFV_A9QcYR-5awhcHQv9JVOTPGw0B6/s640/DSC_0003+copy.jpg" width="464" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sponsors on the back</td></tr>
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<b><u>Organization</u></b><br />
The organization was good. The website had all information you would need. The packet pickup was easy. The course was marked well except one part that was a little confusing but either way led to the same direction. The medal and shirt are awesome. Very well done for a small race.<br />
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<b><u>Overall</u></b><br />
Overall, I really like the challenge of the 25k. It makes for a little more effort but is worth it. The course is very flat and a perfect course especially for new runners looking to try a trail race. It's also great for 50k runners to make things a little easier. The aid stations were well stocked, organized and well run by volunteers. I love the variety of the trail here. The shirts and medals were awesome and make me want to come back again. I will definitely run this race again in the future even given the long drive from Michigan that morning. You could also opt to camp nearby too. This is a race you should put on your bucket list. I'm really happy that I decided to go down and race it.<br />
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Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I paid for this race with my own funds. All opinions are my own.</span>Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-38016596008777118102016-07-24T15:47:00.001-04:002016-07-24T16:07:21.556-04:00Mohican Trail Marathon race review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit0c76Xr9H-mhxufreztqExMFRpeZy7H8sTkSb-ZrEE9qflk2GNtUI8q8mitlFyYlFIu6UjS6WaPJar04G-xWejocbIlyw0xqhqOsQ111-ggWSbxYxk6FDgm-hVepxOR2Px9j5ygCBq8mj/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="598" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit0c76Xr9H-mhxufreztqExMFRpeZy7H8sTkSb-ZrEE9qflk2GNtUI8q8mitlFyYlFIu6UjS6WaPJar04G-xWejocbIlyw0xqhqOsQ111-ggWSbxYxk6FDgm-hVepxOR2Px9j5ygCBq8mj/s640/DSC_0001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Short Version</u></b><br />
Finished in 6:46:49 (official time); no new PR, a personal Worst!<br />
Overall Place: 155/272<br />
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Timed race #112, Marathon #8<br />
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Great trail marathon in Ohio. It was a really hot one though so I ended with a personal worst, walking half the course and running out of water even! The trails are beautiful and worth a trip to run this and have a nice camping vacation.<br />
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<b><u>Long Version</u></b><br />
<b><u>Registration/Packet Pickup</u></b><br />
I decided to rent a Garmin 735 through <b><u><a href="http://run-detroit.com/">Rundetroit</a></u></b>'s Garmin program to test it out. What a nice watch! I didn't end up buying one since my 220 still works just fine but it was fun to play with and super comfortable.<br />
<br />
Registration was completed online and was very simple. They have their own <b><u><a href="http://ombc.net/mohican-100-trail-run/mohican-100-trail-run-general-info">website</a></u></b> with all the information for the race.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinGmtAv2JVK89u7QcFdKfUe_wv1C1SvrCz8N9MOFK439Jt-MtvnkiDsLS1r89XZCQtvMcx06Eq9DfYhbCSlY1qWADGEsyfYDT6TvDsKs36difye3bHFhYf9KVF5MwZcn3X5FdSQA2njLq2/s1600/IMG_4217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinGmtAv2JVK89u7QcFdKfUe_wv1C1SvrCz8N9MOFK439Jt-MtvnkiDsLS1r89XZCQtvMcx06Eq9DfYhbCSlY1qWADGEsyfYDT6TvDsKs36difye3bHFhYf9KVF5MwZcn3X5FdSQA2njLq2/s640/IMG_4217.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garmin 735</td></tr>
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I headed down the day before the race on Friday morning. The plan was to stop for Yuengling's beer (can't get it in Michigan), then get the tent set up for the weekend. The weather was projecting sunny weather the entire weekend and warm too. Too warm for a marathon, and crazy warm for an Ultra.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlHPrXKEKd6zThmT322d-BglTjI_F_F3aZtZT1-DsYUuTplys33kENbtVrA1jetBEXE7C5DAHF9pLoFW7_xgNg694Ua4gII-Aep3fyo4HNQjcOAISxgKRxl5h_aR1CGAxM8muSsuw_2k4O/s1600/IMG_4285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlHPrXKEKd6zThmT322d-BglTjI_F_F3aZtZT1-DsYUuTplys33kENbtVrA1jetBEXE7C5DAHF9pLoFW7_xgNg694Ua4gII-Aep3fyo4HNQjcOAISxgKRxl5h_aR1CGAxM8muSsuw_2k4O/s640/IMG_4285.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mohican State Park</td></tr>
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I stayed at <b><u><a href="http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/mohican">Mohican State Park</a></u></b> Camp Ground. I didn't know what to expect but it was a fantastic park. The start of the race was right in the park which made things easy in the morning since all I had to do was walk over to the start about a five minute walk from my site. No 4am starts for this guy.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwjWMmbtI6B7k397xUE23vvUHgzoOvc29xolTckD0ml5d9F4GCewAMILpQZVRQeysBabZdzJuMDocScz6mHoEVMPI_8XtsAYaQWZCAYg0UjT2-GhCzz4kvtrKRiFaasjSoEa57T8IKDbwY/s1600/IMG_4232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwjWMmbtI6B7k397xUE23vvUHgzoOvc29xolTckD0ml5d9F4GCewAMILpQZVRQeysBabZdzJuMDocScz6mHoEVMPI_8XtsAYaQWZCAYg0UjT2-GhCzz4kvtrKRiFaasjSoEa57T8IKDbwY/s640/IMG_4232.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camping on the river</td></tr>
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I had a site right on the Mohican river and people were tubing down it all day long. I got the tent up (first time with the new tent) and Dave and his girlfriend, Valerie, pulled up and were staying on my site as well. The park itself had showers, an awesome pool, the river and a camp store.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs7z7jpOXLZHOU41OV84rvG8W2Y4LIbBSha3TAni67x-i_Sqhj4BH_NTJCCoFVv7VpmbuWHG_CheEVGSZrPejigZpPoWSFwkHmnVz6SBKe_UmrJkjFLHNmfbbPXSbORAUSFbhaQE3IGahm/s1600/IMG_4253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs7z7jpOXLZHOU41OV84rvG8W2Y4LIbBSha3TAni67x-i_Sqhj4BH_NTJCCoFVv7VpmbuWHG_CheEVGSZrPejigZpPoWSFwkHmnVz6SBKe_UmrJkjFLHNmfbbPXSbORAUSFbhaQE3IGahm/s640/IMG_4253.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great pool</td></tr>
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Dave and I went over to packet pickup to get our packets. It's funny because I felt like I was signed up for a 5k given many were running the 50 mile and 100 mile races. Haha!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmvZ4iVUn29uXwOHuuXhp5T_ZP0AlaGDAdhPbjVy-Ta8J-RoXcedh4DxbEWkg1IBfvxBt_jbD74CxBdc4uUdoSyHccYyR1Z43zeZql6ac2LVEwnOCnptxaoaaxTPPsclkOBT46E2tYGNf7/s1600/P1060212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmvZ4iVUn29uXwOHuuXhp5T_ZP0AlaGDAdhPbjVy-Ta8J-RoXcedh4DxbEWkg1IBfvxBt_jbD74CxBdc4uUdoSyHccYyR1Z43zeZql6ac2LVEwnOCnptxaoaaxTPPsclkOBT46E2tYGNf7/s640/P1060212.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map at packet pickup</td></tr>
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Packet pickup was really easy, as expected, given it's not a huge race. It's one of the things I love about doing trail race. Things are just much more simple. We went to a local restaurant just across the street from the finish line and they had a special for runners on pasta and pizza. We also met up with a couple other local runners, Dave and Beth who were running the 100 mile race.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnD8JNp__5_v24qDy3E3ngEwOxL7UdoormHU2A4EY2Wropo6OtyvbYGqwRl9WRrKfp42D0RCxpgNv3zq71udUkOwsGqfkHDhMxbLlKdeW4aItPbcK-8-v-eiYedw2gx7OHsChepTXs25go/s1600/P1060213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnD8JNp__5_v24qDy3E3ngEwOxL7UdoormHU2A4EY2Wropo6OtyvbYGqwRl9WRrKfp42D0RCxpgNv3zq71udUkOwsGqfkHDhMxbLlKdeW4aItPbcK-8-v-eiYedw2gx7OHsChepTXs25go/s640/P1060213.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pickup</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Start Area</u></b><br />
The next day I walked over to the start. It was already warm and was going to be a hot day (in the mid 80's). I got to see Val and Ryan who were there volunteering for the race at the start line. The race started at 8am. With little fanfare, they said "go" and we were off! The race is a gun start (no chip)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRl1jSAp8g8BDYPYKbCFcNxkJjZU0BqUz7JignGMIAA8VQ4AndoD18QlEkbV0uKltNCjviPMM8aYcEKCO5h1-omjORqUcoAoJ2YrijK3ENHC9z2psEfSNNfufRroeJAUsbujSvUb6Tza3t/s1600/P1060215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRl1jSAp8g8BDYPYKbCFcNxkJjZU0BqUz7JignGMIAA8VQ4AndoD18QlEkbV0uKltNCjviPMM8aYcEKCO5h1-omjORqUcoAoJ2YrijK3ENHC9z2psEfSNNfufRroeJAUsbujSvUb6Tza3t/s640/P1060215.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start line</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Course</u></b><br />
The course is mostly single track with hills like I never run in training, however, overall, it was not an extremely hard marathon course. It was just really hot and the heat took all my energy so I ended up walking half the race. I could not have imagined running the 50 or 100 mile races in those conditions.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztclMWtucHl4HW3aRQwDK-pi1EThLKtdv2zxHD92-y0SANAno65qpGVi59hpYGhL3l4RZ-7ck1eyB4wXs_4f4SmsBRFoP9UdwlQM76cjBOiZiL0JiN3U6Y67Fj1ZgaQuR1i03Hb6w9RfZ/s1600/course.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztclMWtucHl4HW3aRQwDK-pi1EThLKtdv2zxHD92-y0SANAno65qpGVi59hpYGhL3l4RZ-7ck1eyB4wXs_4f4SmsBRFoP9UdwlQM76cjBOiZiL0JiN3U6Y67Fj1ZgaQuR1i03Hb6w9RfZ/s640/course.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Course</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As you can see, there are a few hills on the course. My Garmin showed 2,754 feet of gain.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsJ6SnoO2gdgzknH8PrYil8ILOQg2pWMyXPyuvNYN42ZIvSjXE7qnKM68asgi2FuMbPfqnimi8LKORxh73E_9k5AF-6pUsL-jALlvKHWN3focY8J8wa8eFtsDEFqzxRKHDnLhJGmc-MrO0/s1600/elevation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsJ6SnoO2gdgzknH8PrYil8ILOQg2pWMyXPyuvNYN42ZIvSjXE7qnKM68asgi2FuMbPfqnimi8LKORxh73E_9k5AF-6pUsL-jALlvKHWN3focY8J8wa8eFtsDEFqzxRKHDnLhJGmc-MrO0/s640/elevation.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elevation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihSk-IVrsPjIp3A5azXb_RcJpE-oK3VKKJGCZ0s2kLZvZh0EhdISP5aRrCATDl2onPMpI28bLWsG7t6e7XGmIwo7PoMtxkQsDZB_cioUt-cvwbNrIyFw72tRB17O7GyBvVeN1r9xJD8xKl/s1600/splits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihSk-IVrsPjIp3A5azXb_RcJpE-oK3VKKJGCZ0s2kLZvZh0EhdISP5aRrCATDl2onPMpI28bLWsG7t6e7XGmIwo7PoMtxkQsDZB_cioUt-cvwbNrIyFw72tRB17O7GyBvVeN1r9xJD8xKl/s640/splits.jpg" width="614" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Splits</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The first mile we actually ran back into the campground on the roads in order to get to the trail. The campground would also be a great place to just go for a run without even the race. It's a beautiful area.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7KRnCarjO-5f8em6IypSRiU_V7S5Qbf1ByI5B_jzwjicCfOE_6TkWTYQi3bs1ihgCVJUPjB6Ygnmp2NaW4sTFRVNrnQjUB0jggXFniz9XbU-9WbH5W_XJMjhEB7IdwljCgpGwMaI3BzGy/s1600/P1060217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7KRnCarjO-5f8em6IypSRiU_V7S5Qbf1ByI5B_jzwjicCfOE_6TkWTYQi3bs1ihgCVJUPjB6Ygnmp2NaW4sTFRVNrnQjUB0jggXFniz9XbU-9WbH5W_XJMjhEB7IdwljCgpGwMaI3BzGy/s640/P1060217.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Starting with some roads</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then it was time to get onto the trails. I was kind of hoping for a gradual start to the race.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCxx5ROgfmd8vMXnh8HRQPSH0ZlZLFmWgIqBa2EsiyHTFtJ3aTknNKptBGASDqrm8vPc1vaYY_HlwS5grleB0LPZe3XeVGr9xebRJcnAcDUBYGokX8A4IHsjfAdOPhKfqUVZow8BvEOMDs/s1600/P1060222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCxx5ROgfmd8vMXnh8HRQPSH0ZlZLFmWgIqBa2EsiyHTFtJ3aTknNKptBGASDqrm8vPc1vaYY_HlwS5grleB0LPZe3XeVGr9xebRJcnAcDUBYGokX8A4IHsjfAdOPhKfqUVZow8BvEOMDs/s640/P1060222.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start of the trail</td></tr>
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And then we hit the trail! Holy cow it was hilly and technical right from the start.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-Tk8WXZZibdjc5l2vPZ1XGKfS-LG9CEdI4IRPIV-gpwdbgFWeT7a3i5BAS5W1KvY6Y5IoDNXh8QYSSVW4Or5gXHMpcJa__NRW6G3JVMVcPNJZahSi5Rn4wLWIMovnAXwcj8T-WyfG62c/s1600/P1060223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-Tk8WXZZibdjc5l2vPZ1XGKfS-LG9CEdI4IRPIV-gpwdbgFWeT7a3i5BAS5W1KvY6Y5IoDNXh8QYSSVW4Or5gXHMpcJa__NRW6G3JVMVcPNJZahSi5Rn4wLWIMovnAXwcj8T-WyfG62c/s640/P1060223.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of roots and climbing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After a little while, I began to wonder what I had gotten myself into as you can see the hills below and how high the people ahead of me are.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmyCeqKlotbQi2wkQ9a0EKFzhuwoAJSzOpHsYCfwkZZYiXlI2ck2G3Q21q4qIdBh76J_9FoqYs6n4GkZF5skvaa3Yuw3cxg-nSS7wGBRHuGnHPbjDa5y8_RZFgl2brZASSir17BIpJMUMY/s1600/P1060226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmyCeqKlotbQi2wkQ9a0EKFzhuwoAJSzOpHsYCfwkZZYiXlI2ck2G3Q21q4qIdBh76J_9FoqYs6n4GkZF5skvaa3Yuw3cxg-nSS7wGBRHuGnHPbjDa5y8_RZFgl2brZASSir17BIpJMUMY/s640/P1060226.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hills, hills</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Below was one of the hilliest sections of the course and many were walking, including me. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTMoCbpPfPr7WsHMyN1_JBCCSXYV2ZZTbNPlbpjsZ3O4xvWumdt-IN9OnZlZMbxOvGAm-RGDw5hvthrkho16YxB6QU9DK-yYdbDq0EubrbIioEdpsSevcZWL8MzoGtbZVOrBpLHhiQt4cj/s1600/P1060229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTMoCbpPfPr7WsHMyN1_JBCCSXYV2ZZTbNPlbpjsZ3O4xvWumdt-IN9OnZlZMbxOvGAm-RGDw5hvthrkho16YxB6QU9DK-yYdbDq0EubrbIioEdpsSevcZWL8MzoGtbZVOrBpLHhiQt4cj/s640/P1060229.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">and huge hills!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Soon we were back to running.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnatAptnVaR5PTkzAg62FV_ux84d7AbeEnMtuZgvrnJsGVSrgRNC26FGpVXH66CcE7keGAv0bVojAXPi3ZZBi5gU8ErUETwJEFt5qGm-9yd-IcEQfHXf-6DMDE8bnLn5_31ESYPiXDc32X/s1600/P1060238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnatAptnVaR5PTkzAg62FV_ux84d7AbeEnMtuZgvrnJsGVSrgRNC26FGpVXH66CcE7keGAv0bVojAXPi3ZZBi5gU8ErUETwJEFt5qGm-9yd-IcEQfHXf-6DMDE8bnLn5_31ESYPiXDc32X/s640/P1060238.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">grassy area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnnTaD50qNDTduWIl_MQiXt-NQvUEq2W-bF3e_pNU96CsBQ_ObUrmxFIGvXi-l31o0t-mjE2cXarkgRZJp7SqCbssbzUW5gBVz7tBSTP32piQVfDCwbug330q3p_RlP_BOVpUH7eRH1UBd/s1600/P1060243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnnTaD50qNDTduWIl_MQiXt-NQvUEq2W-bF3e_pNU96CsBQ_ObUrmxFIGvXi-l31o0t-mjE2cXarkgRZJp7SqCbssbzUW5gBVz7tBSTP32piQVfDCwbug330q3p_RlP_BOVpUH7eRH1UBd/s640/P1060243.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back to single track</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With a few hundred runners, while I did run sometimes alone, much of the time there were runners around you.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYl_xOThj9baad8CDNID4ondyP5gPY9p-GmI7Gdf5mdbJvHbPZHqxs_YwUeeLB_9WdRZv4RleKKTOuiI_EuS9H_4Q-e0qJMwsUD22hPoJJkrDqKrb8BTkYmUsCeqzLvNt813ggWTHuSv-s/s1600/P1060249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYl_xOThj9baad8CDNID4ondyP5gPY9p-GmI7Gdf5mdbJvHbPZHqxs_YwUeeLB_9WdRZv4RleKKTOuiI_EuS9H_4Q-e0qJMwsUD22hPoJJkrDqKrb8BTkYmUsCeqzLvNt813ggWTHuSv-s/s640/P1060249.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up high</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Regardless, the course was marked really well so there were no worries on getting lost. The race did an awesome job. I probably would have been freaking to run this at night not knowing the area.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGvLfCZqX_jRvSNwPJ9Ku6pC5QujkwGGqagT1rbBnSW8Sska_61t63TAEGlUFxfZZpfkN6Ob5XawdRtHoZM3BSu_Ca_5D9EftgGter6QeW-vt7Y0YYXEC5nZyxejiOXrxSLPZm8r65ay9q/s1600/P1060257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGvLfCZqX_jRvSNwPJ9Ku6pC5QujkwGGqagT1rbBnSW8Sska_61t63TAEGlUFxfZZpfkN6Ob5XawdRtHoZM3BSu_Ca_5D9EftgGter6QeW-vt7Y0YYXEC5nZyxejiOXrxSLPZm8r65ay9q/s640/P1060257.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well marked course</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Just when we were running and getting our rhythm, more hills came! Haha. Some were not small either!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzX6NZ8YP_zw15smzbcPlS33kgSvOSldOZ-40TYo9stt-_-S1LEVozJ4c32pv_U5V71qKFVI0-fiOoqm7m5PFn7L-Um4_7ltTtmw89yKiWm9BWxoL6cIWUkBtcHXcrS_IaZdZFxrX-8v3K/s1600/P1060262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzX6NZ8YP_zw15smzbcPlS33kgSvOSldOZ-40TYo9stt-_-S1LEVozJ4c32pv_U5V71qKFVI0-fiOoqm7m5PFn7L-Um4_7ltTtmw89yKiWm9BWxoL6cIWUkBtcHXcrS_IaZdZFxrX-8v3K/s640/P1060262.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Climbing was a theme</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We came to a portion of the trail where there were stairs and didn't know what to expect.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLCt-gUWdOu1GE2uCmHWPB8w8C98BLzGQaZYOANZHvXQoTYlgr5NEsnq0Hp3rebLj0VBbFHMZ0U5GxHvIXoP2Ux6lHeq7rttZq7r0sp5FlNEPErZayl_cRwDF1qYQG05mkXkjsyFi_lLfc/s1600/P1060265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLCt-gUWdOu1GE2uCmHWPB8w8C98BLzGQaZYOANZHvXQoTYlgr5NEsnq0Hp3rebLj0VBbFHMZ0U5GxHvIXoP2Ux6lHeq7rttZq7r0sp5FlNEPErZayl_cRwDF1qYQG05mkXkjsyFi_lLfc/s640/P1060265.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Down stairs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As we got half way down the stairs, it opened up and there were rocks that were bigger than homes. It was a beautiful area and a little waterfall there too.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZzApjmUs8_vnQCAkp94L0tITRcFU1WFTx7S65vONAr4i1GDS-1XLko423Ddz9WYizXgDnglOOUhhlsJ5sr4_46jNxmyQtIOgjQljUJWLdCDi8u6V86cQIdp_Q3_g_91TwTY1mn3Ib0zIF/s1600/P1060266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZzApjmUs8_vnQCAkp94L0tITRcFU1WFTx7S65vONAr4i1GDS-1XLko423Ddz9WYizXgDnglOOUhhlsJ5sr4_46jNxmyQtIOgjQljUJWLdCDi8u6V86cQIdp_Q3_g_91TwTY1mn3Ib0zIF/s640/P1060266.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rocks bigger than homes!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We started running by the river which is always a nice place to run.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfP50TjSraNqORsCDzHcI5FHO_HsNDQotuMPnkrY7KzZAoF4g6thyL0BI4MifgdVNhZIE-Wj3zTOkke7FfnenFASfsoEKpk36lHSYJzFh1AqkPHHv8bu3B60G57M2x___T5ygPuXpDT8za/s1600/P1060269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfP50TjSraNqORsCDzHcI5FHO_HsNDQotuMPnkrY7KzZAoF4g6thyL0BI4MifgdVNhZIE-Wj3zTOkke7FfnenFASfsoEKpk36lHSYJzFh1AqkPHHv8bu3B60G57M2x___T5ygPuXpDT8za/s640/P1060269.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">By the river</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then it started getting a little muddier and we were having to jump over logs to stay on the trail.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf7Zya0Tg6DKUg2k3YejgKkZLOq7CHIxtM4yjKDPJs_ArJm-XeuIm5XLOb0kKV0LxvUzEskPaU0osvBs5tF3nP4QHqxTLr7iJ-aZsmpqMYBckCeWtQtnz09jpRZqLZ9Q3IulJtHzvMB3Xi/s1600/P1060274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf7Zya0Tg6DKUg2k3YejgKkZLOq7CHIxtM4yjKDPJs_ArJm-XeuIm5XLOb0kKV0LxvUzEskPaU0osvBs5tF3nP4QHqxTLr7iJ-aZsmpqMYBckCeWtQtnz09jpRZqLZ9Q3IulJtHzvMB3Xi/s640/P1060274.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Muddy area - this was the best area of the course in my opinion</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was a crazy area to run and was one of my favorite parts of the entire course.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8uBvMxFkC1GsNGE8KCW68ZwYuXiZE3XzHD_LlNHTZDmcHzlLLEVHaf0iZ9pwFhNKbFJ-FIRKl2Tbk-Dwvpwhjh7vhCYY6i6-USIgo9ebuc7cvsbJYi0_MMDO9RC0p9GsN8oZT1KIIM6Yl/s1600/P1060277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8uBvMxFkC1GsNGE8KCW68ZwYuXiZE3XzHD_LlNHTZDmcHzlLLEVHaf0iZ9pwFhNKbFJ-FIRKl2Tbk-Dwvpwhjh7vhCYY6i6-USIgo9ebuc7cvsbJYi0_MMDO9RC0p9GsN8oZT1KIIM6Yl/s640/P1060277.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful and tough</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We then started to climb out of the area and headed to the famous wall of tree roots.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBnw28MybJsc0_MCe2SqxBkbRpXzrYxbFl4Lkdz6IVXOv-AMyWGTlh7IE9kwePQwPiYsxkoyF__MNYT4KqDF-K7gB9ddZfS6Dgj9XSuB7O_Y5tjuQX3L_AqsSG0Ap_XbDp83nvBRlM2YIs/s1600/P1060279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBnw28MybJsc0_MCe2SqxBkbRpXzrYxbFl4Lkdz6IVXOv-AMyWGTlh7IE9kwePQwPiYsxkoyF__MNYT4KqDF-K7gB9ddZfS6Dgj9XSuB7O_Y5tjuQX3L_AqsSG0Ap_XbDp83nvBRlM2YIs/s640/P1060279.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crazy climb</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You actually climbed on the roots to get out of this area and back onto the trail. It was an amazing experience!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiAH9za7zxwh0xU2dKlxpmEdZngeJlbjRqubwSObdYEAkrZrJUpjIug-8mpc__uAsZBXHk5CAB_6r2N5f0MrE6-kUBSt2ROl5vQ5iJqjbx0df3lfGTCipy1gc5MU-iDon85y1QfV01OnMP/s1600/P1060281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiAH9za7zxwh0xU2dKlxpmEdZngeJlbjRqubwSObdYEAkrZrJUpjIug-8mpc__uAsZBXHk5CAB_6r2N5f0MrE6-kUBSt2ROl5vQ5iJqjbx0df3lfGTCipy1gc5MU-iDon85y1QfV01OnMP/s640/P1060281.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The famous root wall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Of course, it slowed you down (not the front runners) but was really exciting.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYY9XR50NTLJBVII1llP6_Be1_ekLOK0qw4O_pBuHXFvEZJ3u06WX_aT-XWJOwI3D-BFozphHop7hJk8UUfwi87NhBAg3BUJtxBOiP71HKTYGUXHqb6wQidI9MJTQZvpw-EHBbmyV8dpPr/s1600/P1060282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYY9XR50NTLJBVII1llP6_Be1_ekLOK0qw4O_pBuHXFvEZJ3u06WX_aT-XWJOwI3D-BFozphHop7hJk8UUfwi87NhBAg3BUJtxBOiP71HKTYGUXHqb6wQidI9MJTQZvpw-EHBbmyV8dpPr/s640/P1060282.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the top of the root wall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As we continued, we came to a huge drop of stairs that we had to run. I'm happy that we didn't have to go up. I believe the other race here in April goes up this.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_a9LvaPdEynOiUWaPWWlxRgPpy3wnCJdE6mqwIvS3tGuFAkpXzorPC0yqoghjjdb528oDoAOhc_DRdzBCGebkEznu1kkd2oQp2SV-DEe_JLiFnjjBImM9LZtiJhKw9AaNyqQ2m0-6cXlX/s1600/P1060285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_a9LvaPdEynOiUWaPWWlxRgPpy3wnCJdE6mqwIvS3tGuFAkpXzorPC0yqoghjjdb528oDoAOhc_DRdzBCGebkEznu1kkd2oQp2SV-DEe_JLiFnjjBImM9LZtiJhKw9AaNyqQ2m0-6cXlX/s640/P1060285.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glad we were going down this!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEincn6MRKYxHotfAUJfza1lM8AqTX0rMeCKaId5M99snRWdziFXsmyPOtJeRXJopaxfmX6vmye-VWCmsL9dy5J8cwD00hCjTkY0ovqm5g7IY-gZVGdAWihuSOFGPBmSfkzHNETEdbF0TMhp/s1600/P1060288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEincn6MRKYxHotfAUJfza1lM8AqTX0rMeCKaId5M99snRWdziFXsmyPOtJeRXJopaxfmX6vmye-VWCmsL9dy5J8cwD00hCjTkY0ovqm5g7IY-gZVGdAWihuSOFGPBmSfkzHNETEdbF0TMhp/s640/P1060288.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yikes!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was a pretty area near the river and I took a picture of a guy fishing in the river.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmNOCOPglFpb8vq3hPhxxkgubgzXe2JEEeVHVCG8IFWYyK6KQ-YzOExDVMsougDXAhqJYt_vxgRgKnc_oiMg7L2r25oZ-6Bz0cuopw6dYwkPJOVi2QWgnbw75ipidAXm4BcZLItxdAkYUG/s1600/P1060289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmNOCOPglFpb8vq3hPhxxkgubgzXe2JEEeVHVCG8IFWYyK6KQ-YzOExDVMsougDXAhqJYt_vxgRgKnc_oiMg7L2r25oZ-6Bz0cuopw6dYwkPJOVi2QWgnbw75ipidAXm4BcZLItxdAkYUG/s640/P1060289.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guy fly fishing on the river</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We came to the covered bridge area which is really fun. I love seeing stuff like this in races.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwVxjQWX8lpn69CH91-1sGWp37zO6asne87bU3526TQUM5XXEs_JnfaQGVq-P_Dvt1cxFg0dM4q_UtMX-ngwVZD45ccAYjq39zZru534x1Jml7iZHtqIE2e5K3kt9Viv_rMcKMfWZg9fTV/s1600/P1060293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwVxjQWX8lpn69CH91-1sGWp37zO6asne87bU3526TQUM5XXEs_JnfaQGVq-P_Dvt1cxFg0dM4q_UtMX-ngwVZD45ccAYjq39zZru534x1Jml7iZHtqIE2e5K3kt9Viv_rMcKMfWZg9fTV/s640/P1060293.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Covered bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then it was again back to the single track. The single track varied in that there were rocks, roots, and smooth surfaces. It was a great day to be in the woods......except for that heat! I even ran out of water between one of the aid stations just before the 20 mile mark. That's never happened but then I've never run in a marathon that hot either.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSzltcB4akQUjvTMNGe9D7qIg0_FcCPWgdGQ34poF6ta-Y8byY8Zrvd7ofPp5EINFrTpQvaxFIlOxp6DGwq1fHpRN9nLM8wAnVz5ZYpndxm-PVoG3jsi43gisHcswARJt27E2R-u7OrpDX/s1600/P1060297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSzltcB4akQUjvTMNGe9D7qIg0_FcCPWgdGQ34poF6ta-Y8byY8Zrvd7ofPp5EINFrTpQvaxFIlOxp6DGwq1fHpRN9nLM8wAnVz5ZYpndxm-PVoG3jsi43gisHcswARJt27E2R-u7OrpDX/s640/P1060297.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The single track was incredible</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The pines in this area were huge and the trail was nice and wide.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeBqWFZ9G-ysJHVMU5pGAmZOPX7yTyeqdmaZW4WUZYQvMiDZdqRS9x1CgzwjacPbBMmUgg09eeeJN7vHUYFy9y4CinNhr5JcPXfEvi0jPKMolhtsYE6dzCRkt6Un7ajqpGtnqxKu1enbbs/s1600/P1060298.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeBqWFZ9G-ysJHVMU5pGAmZOPX7yTyeqdmaZW4WUZYQvMiDZdqRS9x1CgzwjacPbBMmUgg09eeeJN7vHUYFy9y4CinNhr5JcPXfEvi0jPKMolhtsYE6dzCRkt6Un7ajqpGtnqxKu1enbbs/s640/P1060298.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fantastic area to run</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyfjWyRTOxhEzpX2RVt3w-aBqkr3H8iGNmDniCi88sx__3Zi263KpIhOBtDRV-50RxFY2mzM0sjpMD0cVLLUlbJxne5PcyfD_RlwfDU7rNirbUmtd7nqniNLWeBETCkcILWOumUOyo_FJ4/s1600/P1060306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyfjWyRTOxhEzpX2RVt3w-aBqkr3H8iGNmDniCi88sx__3Zi263KpIhOBtDRV-50RxFY2mzM0sjpMD0cVLLUlbJxne5PcyfD_RlwfDU7rNirbUmtd7nqniNLWeBETCkcILWOumUOyo_FJ4/s640/P1060306.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpc6AHYqlSC4-YYDo5K9KVNHOoP215VeiIL-XlsrfWf3YPl4verhJ-mTAADIXa9sddJnI9mrkKL_QPs6c8nDsM-K7VXlIfcNYQ-BXx0uTNgSfIV2Ae6_NGmDhLerBLQhzUdx4Dorx7htji/s1600/P1060308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpc6AHYqlSC4-YYDo5K9KVNHOoP215VeiIL-XlsrfWf3YPl4verhJ-mTAADIXa9sddJnI9mrkKL_QPs6c8nDsM-K7VXlIfcNYQ-BXx0uTNgSfIV2Ae6_NGmDhLerBLQhzUdx4Dorx7htji/s640/P1060308.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rocky area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I love the pine needles on the surface of the trail as they make for a great cushion when running.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJEnkLaqnLKKfXfj4fHu6ou8giGfvnk4nUmDhMwfpUJ_g3l9IQ4thTiZPBBdHKjUCf5Uxyv1ZbMz6Eu1BXIz2rtTdr7eEqoX5WeEsYosPgQra0E9cA4l_fsid0TFo-bHZsJokIaNrKqc5l/s1600/P1060310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJEnkLaqnLKKfXfj4fHu6ou8giGfvnk4nUmDhMwfpUJ_g3l9IQ4thTiZPBBdHKjUCf5Uxyv1ZbMz6Eu1BXIz2rtTdr7eEqoX5WeEsYosPgQra0E9cA4l_fsid0TFo-bHZsJokIaNrKqc5l/s640/P1060310.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this surface</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Soon we were back onto the roads and heading back to the finish.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJsYbpL9HPtt11sAMlioS-vz_knhnzYMFXjN8gJIy_qmIZqCkPZB-CVupdj7BCw-pQ5ku0FLe6IblUz18UHwj8TUIF23m3hkzJqurNW6NZcfiU9FhKSd-e4LVOMFNs23qRQl3jg3tTAjkF/s1600/P1060312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJsYbpL9HPtt11sAMlioS-vz_knhnzYMFXjN8gJIy_qmIZqCkPZB-CVupdj7BCw-pQ5ku0FLe6IblUz18UHwj8TUIF23m3hkzJqurNW6NZcfiU9FhKSd-e4LVOMFNs23qRQl3jg3tTAjkF/s640/P1060312.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back to the roads</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We had a little jaunt on the sidewalk, crossed under the road and made our way to the finish line which is where packet pick up was as well. From the finish, I had to walk back about a mile to my campsite since the race does not have a shuttle. It was actually a nice recovery walk back but might not have been so fun had it been raining. You could have also stayed at Mohican Adventures where most runners stayed but that would have meant about a mile walk to the start.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLR_RnXWAdXXLWPFSS1LpNilquhMPTiTo9fOjQjApC_Ju_gSZjjW1YH4Iicxu8j7fJa5i6vwqqDHqUUXTak_asUOKLPWudnmpUokQJJYpkLKwIE_2gXdoMAbYT8gMQuxLZ9pARCZHbX0BR/s1600/P1060313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLR_RnXWAdXXLWPFSS1LpNilquhMPTiTo9fOjQjApC_Ju_gSZjjW1YH4Iicxu8j7fJa5i6vwqqDHqUUXTak_asUOKLPWudnmpUokQJJYpkLKwIE_2gXdoMAbYT8gMQuxLZ9pARCZHbX0BR/s640/P1060313.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost at the finish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Aid Stations</u></b><br />
As would be expected for a trail Ultra marathon, the race aid stations were not like regular marathon races. They are fully stocked with everything you can think of for the ultra runners. They were very organized and ready for the runners as they came in. They also were cheering at each aid station. There is not a ton of spectators so keep that in mind if that is what you are looking for. I didn't get many pictures of the aid stations but they were spread out about every 5 miles.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xnu2QB3uz-gARhh4oc8CH291NBUuwbPJ3tIo4uYW_esxlL_AApuoKM0XIQOc-aJRKMcuaVrg6eCAoylMwyAscg-Emvw6UHBETBAhOOEAG_Y_DPJC3zvQRaFQ5S7gFw1yzpJrfPfFlDnM/s1600/P1060303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xnu2QB3uz-gARhh4oc8CH291NBUuwbPJ3tIo4uYW_esxlL_AApuoKM0XIQOc-aJRKMcuaVrg6eCAoylMwyAscg-Emvw6UHBETBAhOOEAG_Y_DPJC3zvQRaFQ5S7gFw1yzpJrfPfFlDnM/s640/P1060303.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aid Station 4</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Finish Area</u></b><br />
Overall, I finished, and given the heat I was happy to just finish. It was my personal worst time but I didn't care. The race had free Great Lake Brewing beer at the finish and you could also buy food from food trucks as well. I got my free beer and ate some food before I walked back to my campsite to relax the rest of the day.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNpGQS1JBk-4_W-MBqf1QQoYe9UiZ27586IsfldKPZ_rRYyzYjqO4utyIHrwu1H4pjXCkSPaCQ8ehRrZFoLhbkBb4k5iigPPIsf6c_ToE27jGjNs3AeOGQsz8QINziqJR9DOitrpEzFuPt/s1600/IMG_4275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNpGQS1JBk-4_W-MBqf1QQoYe9UiZ27586IsfldKPZ_rRYyzYjqO4utyIHrwu1H4pjXCkSPaCQ8ehRrZFoLhbkBb4k5iigPPIsf6c_ToE27jGjNs3AeOGQsz8QINziqJR9DOitrpEzFuPt/s640/IMG_4275.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish line</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Amenities</u></b><br />
For your entry fee, you received a well marked course with aid stations. You also received a custom race bib with your name on it.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR_HmzxV0tbNPfllzxU3GnWlOs0YB0spomNkTcCCh1W-a50ovMxymUlUWMGLOYZXGMfZyQ6ksINYz2TNrVdXMFj3GrP8FXCBBETvuPwu-xecoPhW0B5PluKxBOe4COITeJaPJ-UGIPl1WR/s1600/DSC_0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="534" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR_HmzxV0tbNPfllzxU3GnWlOs0YB0spomNkTcCCh1W-a50ovMxymUlUWMGLOYZXGMfZyQ6ksINYz2TNrVdXMFj3GrP8FXCBBETvuPwu-xecoPhW0B5PluKxBOe4COITeJaPJ-UGIPl1WR/s640/DSC_0007.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Custom bib</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You received a tech race shirt. This is a newer style tech shirt some of the races are now offering and it's really nice.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmASADjYO4ETghk9L0DUyxcjIJxLOh0K5aayNyVyQ0aw5N1xw2dFGytjIWt-9qUGAJv-nYZ1bbNOYjTk-vl_k8XpfKpcd2djp4ZcmZkLMrXuL0MLhLMiZVchT1ai-v_oAzCgyQ2vypyVM/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmASADjYO4ETghk9L0DUyxcjIJxLOh0K5aayNyVyQ0aw5N1xw2dFGytjIWt-9qUGAJv-nYZ1bbNOYjTk-vl_k8XpfKpcd2djp4ZcmZkLMrXuL0MLhLMiZVchT1ai-v_oAzCgyQ2vypyVM/s640/DSC_0003.JPG" width="542" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great tech shirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1rH9xPsXb92bgTjxVQY5cPAsAZsuhZVMC87Sm_LBuTArezKxMaKjDU_VX_mpxcWnVQZwbIvUZmvcuyv9QZvqv_AKTRUGEo8UrSwkE2OFJIuGiBwkwId49pC1VwkZw7aMlhnVmQiqqPVwY/s1600/DSC_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1rH9xPsXb92bgTjxVQY5cPAsAZsuhZVMC87Sm_LBuTArezKxMaKjDU_VX_mpxcWnVQZwbIvUZmvcuyv9QZvqv_AKTRUGEo8UrSwkE2OFJIuGiBwkwId49pC1VwkZw7aMlhnVmQiqqPVwY/s640/DSC_0004.jpg" width="572" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back of shirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You received a metal for finishing. The 50 milers received larger medals and the 100 milers received belt buckles.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidFgtlwypeShTxiuIjdh39IhwnawYNVc1AG-8do_fkO0Czqgdthcvpd6rG_Uv-goA5MmFJp5ZWrD2kgO5WfoQLwXASxRIH7Z_JiCSsCUx5rB_ogF4ZeY9600qS5Qhb6XRSXwpCX9yRjyn3/s1600/DSC_0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidFgtlwypeShTxiuIjdh39IhwnawYNVc1AG-8do_fkO0Czqgdthcvpd6rG_Uv-goA5MmFJp5ZWrD2kgO5WfoQLwXASxRIH7Z_JiCSsCUx5rB_ogF4ZeY9600qS5Qhb6XRSXwpCX9yRjyn3/s640/DSC_0006.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race medal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's got a really nice design to it too!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoblysK0YGxfDr0TsHllHdkpP5P42cZ4uc-Xjrh2iSJdzt6do1bHYXN5Id8GEZIVQh0Oo9qXpYBySE2WIZERZxeIWKeQiO2PqSRDOwFSY9U9BCbcppEbJGx9SGVgaJbxcn4ADXWHCzOrWN/s1600/DSC_0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoblysK0YGxfDr0TsHllHdkpP5P42cZ4uc-Xjrh2iSJdzt6do1bHYXN5Id8GEZIVQh0Oo9qXpYBySE2WIZERZxeIWKeQiO2PqSRDOwFSY9U9BCbcppEbJGx9SGVgaJbxcn4ADXWHCzOrWN/s640/DSC_0005.JPG" width="632" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medal close up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You received free beer at the finish line. Not only is it free but it's Great Lakes Brewing which is fantastic beer.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr84qtvYRPCrFa30bY0PKWSCAtVPCJBNtiebsmiYET21DMZBnfykEMmFFtAR6svsk3RiA4_hay0CuQcOafU5WjEIeMLAiWBk3iEd6YYOhlWTJxpCQpH68oCISASmDZ4hND_rcVks3jVmzJ/s1600/IMG_4271.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr84qtvYRPCrFa30bY0PKWSCAtVPCJBNtiebsmiYET21DMZBnfykEMmFFtAR6svsk3RiA4_hay0CuQcOafU5WjEIeMLAiWBk3iEd6YYOhlWTJxpCQpH68oCISASmDZ4hND_rcVks3jVmzJ/s640/IMG_4271.jpg" width="570" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beer finish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Organization</u></b><br />
The organization was good. They have a website that had most of the information you needed. The park didn't really know where the start was when we asked initially but then when we asked again, they knew where it was. It was easy to find both the start and packet pickup. Packet pickup was organized and they could answer all your questions. The City is small so this is primarily a race to do to explore the trails although it's a perfect camping vacation since that is primarily what you do there. There were no hotels very close.<br />
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<b><u>Overall</u></b><br />
Overall, it was a great experience. The area is just beautiful and it's an area I'd love to go back again and just run some trails on vacation. Having the river at the campground was nice and the pool is great especially if you are bringing the family. I stayed the entire weekend since it was so nice. I would definitely recommend the race. This also looks like an awesome Ultra marathon although I won't be running 50 or 100 miles anytime soon.<br />
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Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I paid for this entry with my own funds. All opinions are my own.</span>Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-78034427997398608842016-06-04T14:30:00.000-04:002016-06-04T14:30:06.186-04:00Happy National Trails Day!!!If you haven't already, get out on the trails!<br />
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Have a great day and.....Keep Running!!!!<br />
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<br />Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-73944523806439773962016-05-23T21:06:00.003-04:002016-05-23T21:06:26.892-04:00I Can 5k race review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><u>Short Version</u></b><br />
Finished in 27:42 (official time); no new PR<br />
Overall Place: 5/41<br />
Men 40-49: 1/4<br />
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Timed race #109<br />
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First year for this new 5k race. They also had a Hike that was not timed. This was organized by Boy Scout Shane Skelcy for his Eagle Scout project with Troop 360 of Auburn Hills. The event benefited <b><u><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/ghhmichigan/">God's Helping Hands of Michigan</a></u></b> that was organized to provide free food and clothing for those in need in the Southeast Michigan area. What a great idea for an Eagle Scout project! The race was well organized and timed. They had finisher medals and food at the end as well as a raffle. Your entry was free if you provided at least 5 cans for the charity. What a great cause and I'm happy I got to participate. Hopefully they will do this again next year.<br />
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<b><u>Long Version</u></b><br />
<b><u>Registration/Packet Pickup</u></b><br />
One of my running buddies, Josh, told me about this race. He said you could run it if you brought at least 5 cans to the event as they were collecting food for a charity. Awesome. What a great idea. I signed up on <b><u><a href="http://www.eastsideracingcompany.com/">Eastside Racing Company</a></u></b>, who was timing the race. It was very simple to sign up.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3V_k1oQL0T7IASbneWnbU0rS5mbJ80c8_mlMXKySLeJHDZ0mOHBhzhjNV5793d7GQJDJRCcoMKpSTdOvyP-pdAbQJkPjFNVKKEvWxnkygGcCpB0RmLdl8Shx-a1j2Mk-7BsuO06atwXD/s1600/P1060208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3V_k1oQL0T7IASbneWnbU0rS5mbJ80c8_mlMXKySLeJHDZ0mOHBhzhjNV5793d7GQJDJRCcoMKpSTdOvyP-pdAbQJkPjFNVKKEvWxnkygGcCpB0RmLdl8Shx-a1j2Mk-7BsuO06atwXD/s640/P1060208.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bald Mountain State Recreation Area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Race packet pickup was that morning. The race start time was 9:00am and was delayed slightly to allow everyone time to get ready to start. It was a beautiful morning for a race. If you pre-registered, they had your name and bib ready for you. One of the Boy Scouts helped take the cans from you as you approached packet pickup. You also received a timing chip that goes on your shoe so it would be a timed race. The packet also included a cinch bag as well.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKvlRfUg0JtKhxzYfi-rS2c0uE8dYc2famEzJL31QyoqXvTsTDrq8YDa3wru0IHsetC4wJlMfkvnIkjCKX8sWbhh3M6QHAWYYPxa4f7Rm7m2rOQkRY9tqXaQnG5EF89RvvTNmigEOpNtj2/s1600/P1060151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKvlRfUg0JtKhxzYfi-rS2c0uE8dYc2famEzJL31QyoqXvTsTDrq8YDa3wru0IHsetC4wJlMfkvnIkjCKX8sWbhh3M6QHAWYYPxa4f7Rm7m2rOQkRY9tqXaQnG5EF89RvvTNmigEOpNtj2/s640/P1060151.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Registration/packet pickup</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Start Area</u></b><br />
I got there a little early and waited in my car for a few minutes until start time. The park there is very nice and works well for a small race.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnFi0u0YYB6HujiBmcRvASDUiOB7Yyu6yokk_5yG0CVW6smn4fOjq_N3ZitfFSeGBmbY-aUGVJufva9f4cH5yipbRxPIdOVq4IFXHgnWqjEYU3eDR39MrIKISzo4pusU9jNHFKObW3umcy/s1600/P1060152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnFi0u0YYB6HujiBmcRvASDUiOB7Yyu6yokk_5yG0CVW6smn4fOjq_N3ZitfFSeGBmbY-aUGVJufva9f4cH5yipbRxPIdOVq4IFXHgnWqjEYU3eDR39MrIKISzo4pusU9jNHFKObW3umcy/s640/P1060152.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start area - start/finish</td></tr>
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Before we started, they did a few announcement to talk about the course as well as to say thank you to all the sponsors of the race.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM0g1g6Ay_VI7VqZ1wEixhG9aqoZ7cIcsg4mcc8UFfzldOSqkyN7Pgt9JCJAYk0cawUwzzW3d3rlmqWDeTe2RHoc2vxrIHh0A0o2DNPOI__mygPLOGI-DJH1R7cWsbVKC08yzQ29UtPp3y/s1600/P1060153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM0g1g6Ay_VI7VqZ1wEixhG9aqoZ7cIcsg4mcc8UFfzldOSqkyN7Pgt9JCJAYk0cawUwzzW3d3rlmqWDeTe2RHoc2vxrIHh0A0o2DNPOI__mygPLOGI-DJH1R7cWsbVKC08yzQ29UtPp3y/s640/P1060153.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few announcements by Shane Skelcy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As we got lined up, they did the National Anthem just before the race. It was a small race, probably one of the smaller ones I've been to, but it was really fun. I love running small races.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcfuA4qJM-DC8ZbPTiXs_57gAmeQuL4T4bAtLQdM9yIEpEW9eYOGXGQ7VHQaYVMAoxf62dFlUWGNPTOycjiiR4GAgn4kKNWjklB8rn9ETxemU2cYAzji-lEHdwlGlnlfc1uJvOgLHsD5RE/s1600/P1060154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcfuA4qJM-DC8ZbPTiXs_57gAmeQuL4T4bAtLQdM9yIEpEW9eYOGXGQ7VHQaYVMAoxf62dFlUWGNPTOycjiiR4GAgn4kKNWjklB8rn9ETxemU2cYAzji-lEHdwlGlnlfc1uJvOgLHsD5RE/s640/P1060154.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to run (small race, I was at the front)</td></tr>
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<b><u>Course</u></b><br />
The course itself was a little out and back to the trail and then a loop on the trails. The race said that the course measured long and my Garmin came in at about 3.3 miles. I had no plans for this except I felt like I wanted to push myself and see how I could place given the small group. I was happy to see I placed 5th overall especially since much of the course is run on trails.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-x4Joi9EDT41DMOO37zXj9awsnu5AujFY7RbLS5PWbypVAA2hTyNe1GuiBUt5u3ueMheHDgjxsziZbGhNY4vWyJzoXu3e4fEtKtfGG-FsEN4I7ufrpyAtZTc7XYSih7z3o8-kI8bdafEw/s1600/map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-x4Joi9EDT41DMOO37zXj9awsnu5AujFY7RbLS5PWbypVAA2hTyNe1GuiBUt5u3ueMheHDgjxsziZbGhNY4vWyJzoXu3e4fEtKtfGG-FsEN4I7ufrpyAtZTc7XYSih7z3o8-kI8bdafEw/s640/map.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Splits, Map, elevation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We ran through part of the parking lot and drive on asphalt to get to the trailhead. I love watching the kids for the race as they have so much energy!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJAH9PYqAHg5fOwkLDvhs920OlmUzXPNWOyATP_tNZIXdE4RHUJQi8dYilhqvMl0osavHfLym7dP2NioRbj9MhPRwD5E5N_ipt91Z2pBS-J-aA3_6e0rn16v2t_m83n4kh0mvo-3xo2ap/s1600/P1060155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJAH9PYqAHg5fOwkLDvhs920OlmUzXPNWOyATP_tNZIXdE4RHUJQi8dYilhqvMl0osavHfLym7dP2NioRbj9MhPRwD5E5N_ipt91Z2pBS-J-aA3_6e0rn16v2t_m83n4kh0mvo-3xo2ap/s640/P1060155.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little asphalt to start</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was going pretty fast for me and tried to keep up with some of the front runners. I figured I do what I could to catch up to people once we got on the trails.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimIlQeJGN1MCCRJ12VswZlvMd9Vz7VX5pODpT7NiHPJgDBIZdDEHUP5jXIuPx_08OE8EgOTsoXKk8sS4ZE-I4GeuOL8S8rcdEGzfVVCEFCAlvIMQQ2Wt1GWPsyk55rphz2FUO3YkGBC1NB/s1600/P1060157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimIlQeJGN1MCCRJ12VswZlvMd9Vz7VX5pODpT7NiHPJgDBIZdDEHUP5jXIuPx_08OE8EgOTsoXKk8sS4ZE-I4GeuOL8S8rcdEGzfVVCEFCAlvIMQQ2Wt1GWPsyk55rphz2FUO3YkGBC1NB/s640/P1060157.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great day for a race!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The race had volunteers in all the right spots including many of the turns. The course marking were excellent and there was no confusion about which way to go.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4-Gb4CghCMkn5J8g7Z458Gh28PjIlkz5zAdMWMx2z5EwRp-1hMbed-kSyMl3aDVvcbzFpE94AGTfjoxaZgmq7ZnxKpa9Tot8E_aHsxbkCG4MipvRTkxBj5th6qIvYcEbtPnzoXq7hpr2/s1600/P1060159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4-Gb4CghCMkn5J8g7Z458Gh28PjIlkz5zAdMWMx2z5EwRp-1hMbed-kSyMl3aDVvcbzFpE94AGTfjoxaZgmq7ZnxKpa9Tot8E_aHsxbkCG4MipvRTkxBj5th6qIvYcEbtPnzoXq7hpr2/s640/P1060159.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading to the trails</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We got to the single track and it was time to push myself. The trail was groomed well so it was easy to pass on the left.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilzX1FaqtZbh4-rYSOoUDHitfpqiJzO2kBIT27WQL_cCH4-ECgYMRTQHb2WQYNx4xdYf5zT2LnSMsw3t-ps0hyphenhyphenx1i6uQJ1ksgWwxCnbqOafS4PF3i6tECV3OSaaVomFUbszQs2mvHKBqaO/s1600/P1060162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilzX1FaqtZbh4-rYSOoUDHitfpqiJzO2kBIT27WQL_cCH4-ECgYMRTQHb2WQYNx4xdYf5zT2LnSMsw3t-ps0hyphenhyphenx1i6uQJ1ksgWwxCnbqOafS4PF3i6tECV3OSaaVomFUbszQs2mvHKBqaO/s640/P1060162.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Single track</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There were also some wider parts so it was easy to run a fast race even though it was on the trail.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu5rieOd5X54idZNGmLv8s5RRuI2-l3a2zzfh1JcRsmruozZ45Au2M9AneyclDz8rliEqzR_Xo2jL8FTArNL1Zb5aKoH-OfJI84FMTsGMEZLFaW8h6bzpOZG1_Eo3c1U7YxDASB-qu503l/s1600/P1060163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu5rieOd5X54idZNGmLv8s5RRuI2-l3a2zzfh1JcRsmruozZ45Au2M9AneyclDz8rliEqzR_Xo2jL8FTArNL1Zb5aKoH-OfJI84FMTsGMEZLFaW8h6bzpOZG1_Eo3c1U7YxDASB-qu503l/s640/P1060163.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">volunteers on course</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
While I've run out at Bald Mountain before, I've never been to this part of the trail or the start/finish area so this was all new trails to me. It's nice to run some new trails.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEQaAz87QKqmZ_abbvUl7v5X82IUgG39a3GW0sMX69PouA35GQnlD05tgQp9Srva1qAMxtP5FTvpAeanM1nTKKirWL2epZdPujFaBz4lKXLwpWf3SJ781MdSMFO1AtlodI3tZKkdqSr7Dg/s1600/P1060167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEQaAz87QKqmZ_abbvUl7v5X82IUgG39a3GW0sMX69PouA35GQnlD05tgQp9Srva1qAMxtP5FTvpAeanM1nTKKirWL2epZdPujFaBz4lKXLwpWf3SJ781MdSMFO1AtlodI3tZKkdqSr7Dg/s640/P1060167.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">great area to run</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The course had a few muddy spots on the trails but nothing too bad. They were pretty dry overall except one place I remember splashing through.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGQPldGHEW-G4yFs_AaBGOZqoA06cL8Pnq0QRmDV7qG3fgAxnPrFp2Ukp7GT1pw8kseIy-XyiMjebrd3HSrV-aPGNANOCM5A0iJqJqOsB5pJ0mKWeeTKQHq6dfour8jS9DUavewmUTbClL/s1600/P1060170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGQPldGHEW-G4yFs_AaBGOZqoA06cL8Pnq0QRmDV7qG3fgAxnPrFp2Ukp7GT1pw8kseIy-XyiMjebrd3HSrV-aPGNANOCM5A0iJqJqOsB5pJ0mKWeeTKQHq6dfour8jS9DUavewmUTbClL/s640/P1060170.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A couple muddy spots</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The course also had several spots with rocks and roots.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy6a5-3saZBzax4RwPC0399RAmajYOS2su00iy2iujEzXwsPXPfvyVsfEkcrJOhQzMkOW30XWSHJKMdKNbPp3KiUwMhmOTcCdH_mqEY7VNy1FdREe9cYNpKJ1JfkgrvIajl9zORSepCDFY/s1600/P1060174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy6a5-3saZBzax4RwPC0399RAmajYOS2su00iy2iujEzXwsPXPfvyVsfEkcrJOhQzMkOW30XWSHJKMdKNbPp3KiUwMhmOTcCdH_mqEY7VNy1FdREe9cYNpKJ1JfkgrvIajl9zORSepCDFY/s640/P1060174.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rock and roots too</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Overall, though, it was a fairly smooth trail. This would be a great spot for any first time trail runners since it's not extremely hilly.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizAsuKCxvBzJctOsLUSOFRxUZv_-dU-w-RV2M_smER7s4OixYDMenVuSJaT0HbAwTeCq-1DlHRYZcbfwV_4Ef_YULmdY6lF-ZXSzfx8rYnuvAhWMy0TdGDB4ELr81Ov9jPChTINzdpCCWn/s1600/P1060177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizAsuKCxvBzJctOsLUSOFRxUZv_-dU-w-RV2M_smER7s4OixYDMenVuSJaT0HbAwTeCq-1DlHRYZcbfwV_4Ef_YULmdY6lF-ZXSzfx8rYnuvAhWMy0TdGDB4ELr81Ov9jPChTINzdpCCWn/s640/P1060177.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marked very well</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTC8BQWEt3_A5K9_hCdAOiHJVaZAgkujCahvw4Drl-B6koHaXVEbhdOlzXfiHpIIauhSV_39frUFAmdXHq5rT1BviBFctbWjPTXRcs_KgDv8ismQOWdzkkCpIQ5zaPDeE2mERUrlMVdRCM/s1600/P1060184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTC8BQWEt3_A5K9_hCdAOiHJVaZAgkujCahvw4Drl-B6koHaXVEbhdOlzXfiHpIIauhSV_39frUFAmdXHq5rT1BviBFctbWjPTXRcs_KgDv8ismQOWdzkkCpIQ5zaPDeE2mERUrlMVdRCM/s640/P1060184.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More trail markings</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Since I was near the front, I didn't see many runners after this point as the front runners were way ahead of me.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOXU6snt2jtOC6ktHyc-qPaRcDAk4OXnSOwLQ6366mCiN-brHKzJWL2OkPT7MLVR8ugALbUJYUFgBmN7xnVm2a8a6IO-a0P7MeY2iPiD7r2rsyTkd_yPKgpP2kYUHDxTCDgbiLtwVkoltH/s1600/P1060188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOXU6snt2jtOC6ktHyc-qPaRcDAk4OXnSOwLQ6366mCiN-brHKzJWL2OkPT7MLVR8ugALbUJYUFgBmN7xnVm2a8a6IO-a0P7MeY2iPiD7r2rsyTkd_yPKgpP2kYUHDxTCDgbiLtwVkoltH/s640/P1060188.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIlgOs8eKN71xVFLJ6jVVMpjIhNUgArFkVacsvynUx3GTt4oXu_pwx-zn4Qjej2XGd51aQIQ5aFDQS2dUM1zpFHulNzHUkbj3R7AzEOS_7y6rwZItO77vhE05emVK0LuTa9Qu8TVp_OAeN/s1600/P1060191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIlgOs8eKN71xVFLJ6jVVMpjIhNUgArFkVacsvynUx3GTt4oXu_pwx-zn4Qjej2XGd51aQIQ5aFDQS2dUM1zpFHulNzHUkbj3R7AzEOS_7y6rwZItO77vhE05emVK0LuTa9Qu8TVp_OAeN/s640/P1060191.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some hills as well</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv2xmlL7xJMFaf5ACy651ALPbKb6hWjs53kFe2WPlscfxQ6g8QNb0z0t6oVOYEuYOvcjkybjjIFb32u8ixFpyU6Iwto0hwsQ2gKySSwhCSgrkYKaslHpMEvT6k6uJxeHehdMur6Ul7A7-Y/s1600/P1060195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv2xmlL7xJMFaf5ACy651ALPbKb6hWjs53kFe2WPlscfxQ6g8QNb0z0t6oVOYEuYOvcjkybjjIFb32u8ixFpyU6Iwto0hwsQ2gKySSwhCSgrkYKaslHpMEvT6k6uJxeHehdMur6Ul7A7-Y/s640/P1060195.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great area!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We were at the end of the loop on the trail and had one last downhill before getting back to asphalt. As I got to the end of the trail, the guys volunteering there said I was in fourth place overall!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimgpn6oRQsM8coJBh3hhLUm2FawGUHGsHGg-wAfhuPCdJa-Vl2DmHY4ShiJgxVVqtsnFVFnRalkxBgSrkAB7fMTAOd_vWOGBF9T0OmoEd9f6ngPwVTqOz_z_dF9g5DzgsvF1YBXziDuCdH/s1600/P1060196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimgpn6oRQsM8coJBh3hhLUm2FawGUHGsHGg-wAfhuPCdJa-Vl2DmHY4ShiJgxVVqtsnFVFnRalkxBgSrkAB7fMTAOd_vWOGBF9T0OmoEd9f6ngPwVTqOz_z_dF9g5DzgsvF1YBXziDuCdH/s640/P1060196.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downhill portion</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
While it's hard to tell, the asphalt was an uphill portion coming back. I had one girl pass me at the very end of the race to place 5th overall.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB3JwnwcyHeWZCjaMxcAts5zx0tudKsj7LSsKSDBcJ0ps-3jtkI_ERJaINqQtpWjf7Rihx5ZQac6-0Z-x3jUnE1Pz8NQjz6Q_cWXBaDd2uBUSkQYpnBoUevKBm_HOljwZjSQ4hkdW7aQwK/s1600/P1060198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB3JwnwcyHeWZCjaMxcAts5zx0tudKsj7LSsKSDBcJ0ps-3jtkI_ERJaINqQtpWjf7Rihx5ZQac6-0Z-x3jUnE1Pz8NQjz6Q_cWXBaDd2uBUSkQYpnBoUevKBm_HOljwZjSQ4hkdW7aQwK/s640/P1060198.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading back to the finish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZgYKPI_PsbTJMPtYV_9uZfp9Lq1EWaxHCkhJAuXNdnGP60Zg559ImwDh8N2-Dn6uTn9AzJWc_LAjMXeOKWlbISIaSBfSj1ShxGriPrHVSLKjDyrQeKSr6pgg6339m0ob0BcE4_bu1t9U/s1600/P1060200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZgYKPI_PsbTJMPtYV_9uZfp9Lq1EWaxHCkhJAuXNdnGP60Zg559ImwDh8N2-Dn6uTn9AzJWc_LAjMXeOKWlbISIaSBfSj1ShxGriPrHVSLKjDyrQeKSr6pgg6339m0ob0BcE4_bu1t9U/s640/P1060200.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More asphalt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was then back to the park to finish up. A really nice 5k course.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixz-gIXRaSynjUmDzvyMoqlvIZtvmJJV6z2hwb9Kexa0wuG99RA5OZlIu9yfu4bGVzjWgU4o2JtK66uPQ5ZTJSqjOlf2GyvSQEddKjAjiWRI6uXTsibLJXDJVePAt3omxSZ2LHocWsidhH/s1600/P1060206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixz-gIXRaSynjUmDzvyMoqlvIZtvmJJV6z2hwb9Kexa0wuG99RA5OZlIu9yfu4bGVzjWgU4o2JtK66uPQ5ZTJSqjOlf2GyvSQEddKjAjiWRI6uXTsibLJXDJVePAt3omxSZ2LHocWsidhH/s640/P1060206.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Aid Stations</u></b><br />
There was one aid station on the course which I didn't get a picture of. I didn't stop for it since I wanted to keep up my pace. There were two volunteers there giving out water.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Finish area</u></b><br />
After the race, they gave you a medal and there was plenty of food for the runners/walkers. They had pizza, bananas, donuts, water, and juice. The race also did a raffle after everyone came in. I think they had enough prizes that everyone walked away with something - that's awesome! They collected over 860 cans for the charity plus monetary donations that would help get them to their 1,000 can donation goal.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiic9POFXkiqMaT1cgSD7rZityS4usTLcgd4ySD4QSCxoqroYrpGh6ysdgNgAONgtEKYuyA-3CiDscGl66oqjTwvE0YYTeoYQkT7pRv3dAaePjq8TzwrAdh_kKouYzzp2lxM0nP-1eDRFXa/s1600/P1060207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiic9POFXkiqMaT1cgSD7rZityS4usTLcgd4ySD4QSCxoqroYrpGh6ysdgNgAONgtEKYuyA-3CiDscGl66oqjTwvE0YYTeoYQkT7pRv3dAaePjq8TzwrAdh_kKouYzzp2lxM0nP-1eDRFXa/s640/P1060207.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race results</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Amenities</u></b><br />
For your race entry, which was to bring at least 5 cans, you received a chip timed, marked course. You received a bib and a cinch bag from your packet. If you gave 15 cans, you also got an additional tote bag. If you donated 20 cans, you also received a race shirt. I should have just brought more cans to get the shirt too.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj4Y7WzvuHXQg9rzALCrFMdZC7Z31xwWHSZIk2EJGqqH2XBm-6401Va0Zjmukt_R8o0XntNTaAksHzhoZ3-JNeC3jCNaFVaUog0mI4mgebizyftxQMLQyvMtNiAi8EPdI_OB3XxQAdfKx6/s1600/DSC_0031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj4Y7WzvuHXQg9rzALCrFMdZC7Z31xwWHSZIk2EJGqqH2XBm-6401Va0Zjmukt_R8o0XntNTaAksHzhoZ3-JNeC3jCNaFVaUog0mI4mgebizyftxQMLQyvMtNiAi8EPdI_OB3XxQAdfKx6/s640/DSC_0031.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race bib</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCfaZUBAlnvfRuM6OSS3syHmfEFwtDhkLMGYRzzUexOpZkvX6rfMC814py66yGX1H_se45KUSZmLFn6lXfC-zJXW6LvL5RDz9A26_UOca0j0qoBzM_HoYYixdZNrP1yr1Wjmezw1YupBiE/s1600/DSC_0033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCfaZUBAlnvfRuM6OSS3syHmfEFwtDhkLMGYRzzUexOpZkvX6rfMC814py66yGX1H_se45KUSZmLFn6lXfC-zJXW6LvL5RDz9A26_UOca0j0qoBzM_HoYYixdZNrP1yr1Wjmezw1YupBiE/s640/DSC_0033.jpg" width="492" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Part of the packet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For the raffle, I won a packet of Mel's Toffee, out of Rochester. I've never had this before and it was incredible tasty!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsPgxX8eeg-ZGKJux6tF8S7dx1-CQGUfmPlY1_d4hiIPn1UbneQh_NsMIgX9hqwinJ-5maAfu0vwwczPMwMs6WsTo4bNyA5BuY1yEaVcK7serxcmYw_kwz3tT226ZBbxQhcP-Aq92YsOMx/s1600/DSC_0032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsPgxX8eeg-ZGKJux6tF8S7dx1-CQGUfmPlY1_d4hiIPn1UbneQh_NsMIgX9hqwinJ-5maAfu0vwwczPMwMs6WsTo4bNyA5BuY1yEaVcK7serxcmYw_kwz3tT226ZBbxQhcP-Aq92YsOMx/s640/DSC_0032.jpg" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toffee from raffle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Everyone also received a finishers medal. How awesome is that? The medal is a homemade medal (which I assume the Boy Scouts made?). It's one of the most unique medals I've received for a race and I've received a ton of them! I love seeing homemade medals. It makes for a really special race.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-lJFz86bBmXaACIAwGUW4BjE6fORGHh01z1UKdr7n-bB_tUSGcXFLyIlHWvCs7zEEVWSkmLGegMXkHD_OEvIk_surB7BY304as-b2jDX8wTLfl-ClV7ZGiNMCKetTWf2ww0XJM8bg-DAT/s1600/DSC_0034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-lJFz86bBmXaACIAwGUW4BjE6fORGHh01z1UKdr7n-bB_tUSGcXFLyIlHWvCs7zEEVWSkmLGegMXkHD_OEvIk_surB7BY304as-b2jDX8wTLfl-ClV7ZGiNMCKetTWf2ww0XJM8bg-DAT/s640/DSC_0034.JPG" width="564" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race medal - awesome homemade medal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicD9bfiPQkuCOV3-INcAqHwQlUe5dSbbHKJB5ZV6oX6CLyP0I0A4Wkrx2vx7ki61YcxvyDtqfyJsL_WBG2hNLgIOcfjfa3uTjSS93RDasOo97I00Cn25wUF-uMKaZ3LlhfPWZXzm2L0-dk/s1600/DSC_0035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicD9bfiPQkuCOV3-INcAqHwQlUe5dSbbHKJB5ZV6oX6CLyP0I0A4Wkrx2vx7ki61YcxvyDtqfyJsL_WBG2hNLgIOcfjfa3uTjSS93RDasOo97I00Cn25wUF-uMKaZ3LlhfPWZXzm2L0-dk/s640/DSC_0035.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medal close up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Organization</u></b><br />
The organization of the race was great. They had a place to register online. They posted it on Runmichigan. They had all details on a flyer so you knew where to go and what time. The start/finish area was well organized. Packet pick up was really easy.<br />
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<b><u>Overall</u></b><br />
Overall, this was a really fun race. I loved the course! The race was well organized. It was for a great cause. The medals, completely unexpected, were incredible! The finish line food was great. While I realize that this was for an Eagle Scout project, my hope is that they continue to put on this event on an annual basis. You could tell that Shane Skelcy and his volunteers put a lot of hard work into making sure this was a fun and successful event. I'm glad I got to be a part of it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTQgRKb5Qi4s5iBqgcnMF5hL_p-yeo-7RRJ9rvzpIVlaNLktnP6zlIJrBIlQ7DyWqGXH1X_scGJQjUW5wfA3ypIKqDeApflOhT9QIMkPM17GVmUZYwyI4xTi0WAEuiOvEMEUv1CCyNb5JM/s1600/IMG_3946.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTQgRKb5Qi4s5iBqgcnMF5hL_p-yeo-7RRJ9rvzpIVlaNLktnP6zlIJrBIlQ7DyWqGXH1X_scGJQjUW5wfA3ypIKqDeApflOhT9QIMkPM17GVmUZYwyI4xTi0WAEuiOvEMEUv1CCyNb5JM/s640/IMG_3946.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another successful 5k</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikzXkLdnobEJUek4zsnBnmTnAzsXNVDPnZYkIVSPzJxS5ZhWXhdy6QtbImbXWhxO3ecs9yURMhk_NQTUzEsq1UcalS2cfAbr6ZpFfyDeWNbIAUFuI144Ox-ZKsE99weJX_sDJj0wdmBg65/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikzXkLdnobEJUek4zsnBnmTnAzsXNVDPnZYkIVSPzJxS5ZhWXhdy6QtbImbXWhxO3ecs9yURMhk_NQTUzEsq1UcalS2cfAbr6ZpFfyDeWNbIAUFuI144Ox-ZKsE99weJX_sDJj0wdmBg65/s1600/signature.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: This entry was free if you brought cans to participate. All opinions are my own.</span>Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-33508311786808466842016-05-21T14:44:00.001-04:002016-05-21T14:44:42.067-04:00Back to the Beach 10k race review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn7MyhEexv3fN1knqKMAkffxpX8XJty9wcPl0OdRXth6RcdFEh8lledgpSDGzrz0jx2Tmff-lSHE51Erv6DdTxCgCZdpqfey9TD-wSYc4azzVjJS_TAETJmbbTOYZx2dEUf6zXqG-V_5vs/s1600/IMG_3832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn7MyhEexv3fN1knqKMAkffxpX8XJty9wcPl0OdRXth6RcdFEh8lledgpSDGzrz0jx2Tmff-lSHE51Erv6DdTxCgCZdpqfey9TD-wSYc4azzVjJS_TAETJmbbTOYZx2dEUf6zXqG-V_5vs/s640/IMG_3832.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Short Version</u></b><br />
Finished in 56:56 (official time); no new PR<br />
Overall Place: 57/297<br />
Men 45-49: 4/11<br />
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Timed race #108<br />
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While it's not a new race to me, I decided I'd do a race review on this since it's a new distance for me at this race. I've run the Back to the Beach half marathon three times but I've never run the 10k course. I actually wanted to run the half marathon but having a 25k race the day before had me concerned for the distance so I chose the 10k this year. Another outstanding race put on by Joe Burns. He really knows how to make runners happy and this is one of the races that is always really fun. Great organization, he gives back to the community and overall an excellent event. It sells out every year so keep that in mind for next year.<br />
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<b><u>Long Version</u></b><br />
<b><u>Registration/Packet pickup</u></b><br />
I registered online through their website and, as usual, was very easy. Packet pickup was either at Hanson's Running Shop in Utica the week before the race or race morning. I've always picked up my packet at Hanson's but it's also very easy to just pick up that morning if you are not from the area. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzwdeUI6vrCPNdPf-uWIRyWffUKn49YBPgEYfOcgxluFoJS0k0c_SgGbhJQdosxcpd1e4abxEA8vhKMK95cOY016hFzZG4H7xrVO_DKh-Yn8xHVHOfDy2aoLW67zYYhmhZYl-Eh5MyCqiJ/s1600/P1060054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzwdeUI6vrCPNdPf-uWIRyWffUKn49YBPgEYfOcgxluFoJS0k0c_SgGbhJQdosxcpd1e4abxEA8vhKMK95cOY016hFzZG4H7xrVO_DKh-Yn8xHVHOfDy2aoLW67zYYhmhZYl-Eh5MyCqiJ/s640/P1060054.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Packet pickup</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<u><b>Start Area</b></u><br />
I got there a little early in order to see the half marathon runners start. Their race started at 7:30am and the 10k was at 8:35am. It's always fun seeing the runners start. Joe was hard at work. It also happen to be the coldest Back to the Beach races I've ever attended. Usually it's very warm but not this year. We even had snow that morning - crazy!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLq2UwCrlvJXN4xNM3Gi_BmEyBd3jU1beJKkPf7okVRT6VVXbkBOeUEJ7IyeXxQ9qO4gzzMQ67xwMt86fw4PA34M_K96eKE03kIpgiT96DWcfCx5_hTRR9iBksGj1RSc7mbvn09R4s0RCb/s1600/P1060051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLq2UwCrlvJXN4xNM3Gi_BmEyBd3jU1beJKkPf7okVRT6VVXbkBOeUEJ7IyeXxQ9qO4gzzMQ67xwMt86fw4PA34M_K96eKE03kIpgiT96DWcfCx5_hTRR9iBksGj1RSc7mbvn09R4s0RCb/s640/P1060051.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joe, race director working hard to start the half marathon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The start/finish area is set up at Eastwood Beach in Stony Creek Metropark. It's the perfect venue for a race and they had their sponsors all set up in the area. We were able to use real bathrooms before the start as well.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFQMg1avKr7u6B2NdO2d5Th7rZg7uWwDa-CywkcKxk_mxZF5AMWyGY61WhZ1ms6KuU2-Wan0q4ExiEx7NKXJ1dn-SAyhcOkPrI4Wu4PzGNiz5-xqsPew_PO78K_DL-NixqPJgR1cqtM7Mb/s1600/P1060052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFQMg1avKr7u6B2NdO2d5Th7rZg7uWwDa-CywkcKxk_mxZF5AMWyGY61WhZ1ms6KuU2-Wan0q4ExiEx7NKXJ1dn-SAyhcOkPrI4Wu4PzGNiz5-xqsPew_PO78K_DL-NixqPJgR1cqtM7Mb/s640/P1060052.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the sponsors</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The race was getting the food set up for the runners which was various items such as pop tarts, bagels, granola bars, etc.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw8PoB2IsPeZBhpHIWd7DAkCAg9FLKGpuzPNiSEsaIkuvrNncvIryMsJXQ8GGpQqY-G5QqkbT9R2gx2ltYd0n3SGARDjXGi4DbiE24I1OCitbmRv3WBj3Q_4r78_nHQjRhrJHVPk5_hLWH/s1600/P1060053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw8PoB2IsPeZBhpHIWd7DAkCAg9FLKGpuzPNiSEsaIkuvrNncvIryMsJXQ8GGpQqY-G5QqkbT9R2gx2ltYd0n3SGARDjXGi4DbiE24I1OCitbmRv3WBj3Q_4r78_nHQjRhrJHVPk5_hLWH/s640/P1060053.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After race food</td></tr>
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The race did the National Anthem with the Boy Scouts leading it off.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmRO67VQz-0YbGkzqeEsAC3xTXrUehwcpGo6Flyqi768GgAQq74ymL5pcOj7Cj5FnzpBa-6OQyzcNbyQRJzqnsZK10YUyMifQqGxN-Ut_tF4V_Rt042IGRkYYCLs_RX3-Wxa1fYcotn2Lh/s1600/P1060045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmRO67VQz-0YbGkzqeEsAC3xTXrUehwcpGo6Flyqi768GgAQq74ymL5pcOj7Cj5FnzpBa-6OQyzcNbyQRJzqnsZK10YUyMifQqGxN-Ut_tF4V_Rt042IGRkYYCLs_RX3-Wxa1fYcotn2Lh/s640/P1060045.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boy scouts doing the National Anthem</td></tr>
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With that we were ready to get in line and run. The 10k had several corrals and I just jumped into the one with my sister-in-law and her friend.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAZD4baaXcxb7v3x8XaPP7vcEzw6Txu_YP5G2NqwLAWb2VgLBpEvSCbBSTtAmHZhHHGHNaeHXY1a-W7Zi3ViJNnjF4MEl6kc7x7EFPCdvtcjGhJV4LphzXl6VIwyohc0_IvRV5ZBlO8eEN/s1600/P1060058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAZD4baaXcxb7v3x8XaPP7vcEzw6Txu_YP5G2NqwLAWb2VgLBpEvSCbBSTtAmHZhHHGHNaeHXY1a-W7Zi3ViJNnjF4MEl6kc7x7EFPCdvtcjGhJV4LphzXl6VIwyohc0_IvRV5ZBlO8eEN/s640/P1060058.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start</td></tr>
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<b><u>Course</u></b><br />
The course is run on various surfaces including grass, trails, and asphalt. I had no plans for this race since I had just run a 25k race the day before. There were some hills, mostly in the trolley trails area, but nothing too large to worry about. If you are new to trail running, this is a perfect first trail race to try.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3WLkt3SXhOgHkAp5uJSlJMzah41lIYacwZC37HEXI8fK96Q_DnjDLeC_yrz9l68IVaDCkYCEU0g66JsoMMfcUPUNETNHMIn5HFtcErECu4Sw-1Qz1B6DzM8iYy4e1pyO7vAqvhd8FDkq7/s1600/map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3WLkt3SXhOgHkAp5uJSlJMzah41lIYacwZC37HEXI8fK96Q_DnjDLeC_yrz9l68IVaDCkYCEU0g66JsoMMfcUPUNETNHMIn5HFtcErECu4Sw-1Qz1B6DzM8iYy4e1pyO7vAqvhd8FDkq7/s640/map.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map, splits and elevation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We were off and running in what I believe was the third corral to go off from the start.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiub3uYJJ8tJekmmBBX5j2bs8CkUPqlba50eL7W0nD66c3ldPd2WEf3-hOM9k38mmmPScjKPbbxHICAcp0OHQXtqfJta5bvKxSNyE7X2VINPZFXN60L-7vpQYgUzITU4CRAJ7Tfv50KFOF1/s1600/P1060059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiub3uYJJ8tJekmmBBX5j2bs8CkUPqlba50eL7W0nD66c3ldPd2WEf3-hOM9k38mmmPScjKPbbxHICAcp0OHQXtqfJta5bvKxSNyE7X2VINPZFXN60L-7vpQYgUzITU4CRAJ7Tfv50KFOF1/s640/P1060059.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And we are off</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I started out pretty strong and headed up the group for a little while. While it was cold, it was nice and sunny out and the wind was not as strong as it was by the lake.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzGIun-6N0DUwkLTnDlJUZhRS7dxy4yTND1qQ-DRFMI2gOy2voXPq4atsi1zyqfB2-5FYvzp6XhS7ylYpUgeAwIsjbdFAxS5VPXvGhdCW20QJ93_0GpvdR5BulHxdfVLFUY4inpgkHZQCE/s1600/P1060060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzGIun-6N0DUwkLTnDlJUZhRS7dxy4yTND1qQ-DRFMI2gOy2voXPq4atsi1zyqfB2-5FYvzp6XhS7ylYpUgeAwIsjbdFAxS5VPXvGhdCW20QJ93_0GpvdR5BulHxdfVLFUY4inpgkHZQCE/s640/P1060060.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Follow the flags!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The course is always marked really well as seen below.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfnI7dYIsUOzDdCgncEiVwATK6_a3-kahe1W1zoIIMWow6N1Es2864rxv9chYK2LO6p5hGuH-oeKwmlraBfq_Iz8cuYQW5roJ7d3-G-HauJRJg_mdgD_L0PDMD9nsNJu4PTcEflWUNR-de/s1600/P1060062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfnI7dYIsUOzDdCgncEiVwATK6_a3-kahe1W1zoIIMWow6N1Es2864rxv9chYK2LO6p5hGuH-oeKwmlraBfq_Iz8cuYQW5roJ7d3-G-HauJRJg_mdgD_L0PDMD9nsNJu4PTcEflWUNR-de/s640/P1060062.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well marked</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We then headed onto the paved path as we made our way to the trolley trails. As I continued, I caught up to the previous corral.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaexiezMEKdlJjQ64GCrjohl7axxa8MkANDP1fJkIKhOqjcNApVKQX2G9_Tk57cRMQ_tQdJmdy2Y3_LU6M57eTMxquad5udaBbzcRNV_SKpoIUb09e3jmWpQvQvGzWdkL2JAYIYwUOD6bS/s1600/P1060064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaexiezMEKdlJjQ64GCrjohl7axxa8MkANDP1fJkIKhOqjcNApVKQX2G9_Tk57cRMQ_tQdJmdy2Y3_LU6M57eTMxquad5udaBbzcRNV_SKpoIUb09e3jmWpQvQvGzWdkL2JAYIYwUOD6bS/s640/P1060064.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Onto asphalt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Metropark police were there to help stop traffic for the runners.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSWkMoPXT-ZGu5LA6HE0kupahd5ZhTGDsa24MOnCrULvLjxQiYHptr7EqM_pQMH_8Aa2FudhU6-FrIvHPhwhIRPLNHQGTbapsjGTGLKtgKEKwxg4yQk385fZ5-Cuf8LSV1U7rZdfkALJa0/s1600/P1060067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSWkMoPXT-ZGu5LA6HE0kupahd5ZhTGDsa24MOnCrULvLjxQiYHptr7EqM_pQMH_8Aa2FudhU6-FrIvHPhwhIRPLNHQGTbapsjGTGLKtgKEKwxg4yQk385fZ5-Cuf8LSV1U7rZdfkALJa0/s640/P1060067.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Park police support</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Soon we were on the trails. The trolley trails are really nice to run and, while I run the trails at Stony probably more than most, I rarely come to these trails. It's nice to get back on them and I really should run on them more for training.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYUFbmkUhhVjWXHvs_K2eG1PFUpmILmEQpdrPexU6gcBO9Lu4VsDSCMdy3L0nkEGYfyt4PEjU_5TxduqU025dHVFJSjVdcuEpDys5Wl5x_hv0OmleHhFRTn26pVjGL17a-jYUA-IQ3vZcY/s1600/P1060069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYUFbmkUhhVjWXHvs_K2eG1PFUpmILmEQpdrPexU6gcBO9Lu4VsDSCMdy3L0nkEGYfyt4PEjU_5TxduqU025dHVFJSjVdcuEpDys5Wl5x_hv0OmleHhFRTn26pVjGL17a-jYUA-IQ3vZcY/s640/P1060069.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Onto the dirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9D7DThO3iQvbq3gsUyoI7SMiWiSKqe-nKQbN_vecDOhAllBnsjSFttBfkh4L1Tr7iXqJ0vFiDDQ9V63Xo86LtLZJiJkmgFd4RCQKrsDHxbKnpnhka_6K8g7xHtxIvJUQameSAALF4HXDF/s1600/P1060073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9D7DThO3iQvbq3gsUyoI7SMiWiSKqe-nKQbN_vecDOhAllBnsjSFttBfkh4L1Tr7iXqJ0vFiDDQ9V63Xo86LtLZJiJkmgFd4RCQKrsDHxbKnpnhka_6K8g7xHtxIvJUQameSAALF4HXDF/s640/P1060073.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trolley trails</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You can see that much of the trail is a widetrack, as well as single track, with some roots and stones but overall, it's a very runnable trail in the area.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6oDscPbgoUqV2qmz7JJ3hjKfNubGghqvVZupaD7BdZAzPauIjJUCXG5Ox0F_lZd27oLh-BjpPg2-ouP1ojZORGXdqHE8C8IJqh8y0kTiilA4o33CsiXUxs9LABxpI8FIyOPGbLC11cwJq/s1600/P1060075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6oDscPbgoUqV2qmz7JJ3hjKfNubGghqvVZupaD7BdZAzPauIjJUCXG5Ox0F_lZd27oLh-BjpPg2-ouP1ojZORGXdqHE8C8IJqh8y0kTiilA4o33CsiXUxs9LABxpI8FIyOPGbLC11cwJq/s640/P1060075.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Ms-yOBk2POL2lQ7prDsES9rSs26VPdRTXCVIRvlpczb0CUxb8_N1g_qZaR22DQuRDBHulEpoX9v-0U5qWIjy7z-NjhIEpX2Y2gWIDWiCu5PwYXoMCy8hFqRuHZpAXVskTdG1CHmPfMEr/s1600/P1060080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Ms-yOBk2POL2lQ7prDsES9rSs26VPdRTXCVIRvlpczb0CUxb8_N1g_qZaR22DQuRDBHulEpoX9v-0U5qWIjy7z-NjhIEpX2Y2gWIDWiCu5PwYXoMCy8hFqRuHZpAXVskTdG1CHmPfMEr/s640/P1060080.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG0uLdM2K-ThAFe3yCF7y26SFbpiOp2n49LbTpJaYFC4bpAA5Tqk1PT3HbWWDEjR4ZILnd6zGSvLBPOA6h-4JOiXIIvjZQA71bYYOg38mgyGgRgCDzv8A-qqpE2NQikaRpw0ONVpA_L8mW/s1600/P1060082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG0uLdM2K-ThAFe3yCF7y26SFbpiOp2n49LbTpJaYFC4bpAA5Tqk1PT3HbWWDEjR4ZILnd6zGSvLBPOA6h-4JOiXIIvjZQA71bYYOg38mgyGgRgCDzv8A-qqpE2NQikaRpw0ONVpA_L8mW/s640/P1060082.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grassy area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of my favorite things about this course is the various terrain. I love that it switches up from grass to trails to asphalt and back. It makes the time go by so fast. Before I knew it, I was already at mile 2.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieo7WiTrNduFS4AVNoPn18Q3p3XLNWVVUJZ0j6VHkg9sGiLFLBGFizOne1YiEQKNAdxXFr3sSRi0cMzqPEjmTq2uJ19kIdlB3SGW72MLHXQzB5a1p1fPFejAQ1gcfQrTO-XHlzHQr_hp4W/s1600/P1060083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieo7WiTrNduFS4AVNoPn18Q3p3XLNWVVUJZ0j6VHkg9sGiLFLBGFizOne1YiEQKNAdxXFr3sSRi0cMzqPEjmTq2uJ19kIdlB3SGW72MLHXQzB5a1p1fPFejAQ1gcfQrTO-XHlzHQr_hp4W/s640/P1060083.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3IU0QyyR-5_L9qVjxvsSTYX4gBg3k0K5XWrAIe8FllJGObqwCz9XlrnpGnQ-55ewhQeBV9SApPD-5z8HK3sNXNR5lZgPnDRmbGk4YugwOiBtsmvyX4f2p94S1f3pfekE7-LvxlZMM8QQ/s1600/P1060090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3IU0QyyR-5_L9qVjxvsSTYX4gBg3k0K5XWrAIe8FllJGObqwCz9XlrnpGnQ-55ewhQeBV9SApPD-5z8HK3sNXNR5lZgPnDRmbGk4YugwOiBtsmvyX4f2p94S1f3pfekE7-LvxlZMM8QQ/s640/P1060090.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More grass</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
While it does not look like it below, this is a slight hill. These ones always seem to get me. After this we were back on the path to start running another section of the race.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw1O8D3FW7p2ZcQboVdSOaawSwMmoBf8-xgMZcR46xVi7Jn2gWr5SEfH7IV4Lcvh4Y4EHM3bauMPeo7ebiWe2Z-szy38ESmYkeaEavNE4XnkWuppwrSU4LgZzWjDo277ILaSJiWZQrHeAP/s1600/P1060092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw1O8D3FW7p2ZcQboVdSOaawSwMmoBf8-xgMZcR46xVi7Jn2gWr5SEfH7IV4Lcvh4Y4EHM3bauMPeo7ebiWe2Z-szy38ESmYkeaEavNE4XnkWuppwrSU4LgZzWjDo277ILaSJiWZQrHeAP/s640/P1060092.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYS2PX_mdW9aKSxhcIWILQUXQYBRKrmPy-5my7Vvs3HZzGtNh5WGEAjAflx_cQCc3pIcMq1TbjLnbXTe_zHLYnbZXmACXACRx-hZeehREnC0ZOJzJvsm6SY20sSOIgFeB6E_nNYlmDymha/s1600/P1060098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYS2PX_mdW9aKSxhcIWILQUXQYBRKrmPy-5my7Vvs3HZzGtNh5WGEAjAflx_cQCc3pIcMq1TbjLnbXTe_zHLYnbZXmACXACRx-hZeehREnC0ZOJzJvsm6SY20sSOIgFeB6E_nNYlmDymha/s640/P1060098.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading back</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Not much asphalt to worry about if you don't want to run on hard surfaces. It's quite minimal in this race.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv__2iW9TWINe-ja7x57WF1tbPuDWxJlk3tN3RcWXIb9nh-ejL73ySm-AMIK_Hp-rM-WJgHKCTBciYDh0mkOFjazLrvoC74UQDojNBZ7pLPHjr2Gy8g9PLg91G_DcBQP4CSy__C6Y06U0x/s1600/P1060105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv__2iW9TWINe-ja7x57WF1tbPuDWxJlk3tN3RcWXIb9nh-ejL73ySm-AMIK_Hp-rM-WJgHKCTBciYDh0mkOFjazLrvoC74UQDojNBZ7pLPHjr2Gy8g9PLg91G_DcBQP4CSy__C6Y06U0x/s640/P1060105.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglsMHF5PvqaZMCDSwFEm8NR3WxW2bPFqpm8AXGx_FOB6L-23kMI854TGHgIL67vlaG_Wa6lCy4m6EubTVEKneXlVoaDR2kE4KskCRkr_hfReHuNVEBAvQoZYfAH9DaNHEyOJvQ8H_rQlII/s1600/P1060109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglsMHF5PvqaZMCDSwFEm8NR3WxW2bPFqpm8AXGx_FOB6L-23kMI854TGHgIL67vlaG_Wa6lCy4m6EubTVEKneXlVoaDR2kE4KskCRkr_hfReHuNVEBAvQoZYfAH9DaNHEyOJvQ8H_rQlII/s640/P1060109.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 4</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The race really tries to keep this mostly on soft surfaces.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpr9L8arAA6WHlDidVQpDPD64O1ei13PF3EL3u6QhUmEMe3bA1HwRAYAAkjbUbNB969VMOh78dodcjG2KuC6lbyY2NzGQYqplDbyv7TrhLu1j1oDe1Tzd6CGBXjf3KnbzLmflCuA063SEG/s1600/P1060112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpr9L8arAA6WHlDidVQpDPD64O1ei13PF3EL3u6QhUmEMe3bA1HwRAYAAkjbUbNB969VMOh78dodcjG2KuC6lbyY2NzGQYqplDbyv7TrhLu1j1oDe1Tzd6CGBXjf3KnbzLmflCuA063SEG/s640/P1060112.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Soon we were running the opposite of the half marathon runners.<br />
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There was a little out and back that we had to go to in order to get back to the finish.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 5</td></tr>
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It was now time to run back to the finish line where we started the race.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 6</td></tr>
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We were finally "Back to the Beach" and you could hear some of the spectators cheering on the runners. We were also mixed in, at that point, with the half marathon runners on the same course.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost Back to the Beach!</td></tr>
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As we headed towards the finish, we crossed a timing mat where the race was announcing names as you ran to the finish. I really like that part of races when they announce your name. It makes for a special ending.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Announcer yelling finisher names</td></tr>
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With that, we were finished. The clock time below is for the half marathon.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish!</td></tr>
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<b><u>Aid Stations</u></b><br />
There were several aid stations but I didn't get any pictures. They were stocked with the necessities so I didn't bring my water bottle to race with this time. They also had a margarita aid station too near the end of the race. Fun stuff! The volunteers at this race are always great and cheering you on.<br />
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<b><u>Finish Area</u></b><br />
The finish area is the same as the start area. One thing that was different this year is that the race used timing chips on the bibs this year. In previous years, they used chips on your feet so it's nice to see they are doing this as it makes it much easier. It was pretty windy and cold after the race so I didn't stick around too long. Normally when it's warmer, I stay longer and talk to people but I was ready to get into a warm place. I felt sorry for the volunteers as they must have been freezing!<br />
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<b><u>Amenities</u></b><br />
For your entry, you received a custom race bib, a measured course with support (which did reflect short on my Garmin, however, that can happen in the woods). A beach towel this year instead of a shirt! The race also offered shirts for sale if you wanted one and they looked really nice too.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Custom bib</td></tr>
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The beach towel was an awesome addition to the race. It's the first one I've ever received at a race and it's nice to get something other than the 100 shirts I already have in my closet. Also a really great idea given the beach theme.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8x8dEauMlhY8X3UC_Z8m7y9uc1xuMU28a4m4YB_dkcsZhFMBpxTIdOu8RD4pyvZ40Bj-pH9JcpbZNyOV4IVlG6USaM0b-iVtQlLVD3cOnCTeq-UJ6fc0fSyRUbSjgTLpa-krQ7XlD58q-/s1600/IMG_3832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8x8dEauMlhY8X3UC_Z8m7y9uc1xuMU28a4m4YB_dkcsZhFMBpxTIdOu8RD4pyvZ40Bj-pH9JcpbZNyOV4IVlG6USaM0b-iVtQlLVD3cOnCTeq-UJ6fc0fSyRUbSjgTLpa-krQ7XlD58q-/s640/IMG_3832.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beach towel - first ever from a race</td></tr>
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The medal for the 10k(as well as the 5k too) was awesome (the half is even better). The design of this excellent and the custom ribbon is also really nice. The size is good for a 10k and the quality is great.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbiyTa9i_fRsNyQ_3PiEsdgwR7vy16y2OctWDcQ1Ttx1ycFykPwwKJvUTiXfBSZMLC-N_zKaKh9DI7ridoFkmM8m4IQjncHLlnji0mjib12zhAFPAIXwYoHH3XUSHorfbdtUIey-7_zvxs/s1600/DSC_0040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbiyTa9i_fRsNyQ_3PiEsdgwR7vy16y2OctWDcQ1Ttx1ycFykPwwKJvUTiXfBSZMLC-N_zKaKh9DI7ridoFkmM8m4IQjncHLlnji0mjib12zhAFPAIXwYoHH3XUSHorfbdtUIey-7_zvxs/s640/DSC_0040.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race medal and ribbon</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvyic7XHEBTsuRX-RjMqMFsj_gGc9TSE24iSRHrdv8_0rzfCGoz-b6dEUDleBnpjM2Rn550a3yWIlst7JLeIrfAEjOg4i6dVmiQzS02M1w6s0euse6-Q0kk10pVz4-eD7-moNOiaO8Lhu/s1600/DSC_0039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvyic7XHEBTsuRX-RjMqMFsj_gGc9TSE24iSRHrdv8_0rzfCGoz-b6dEUDleBnpjM2Rn550a3yWIlst7JLeIrfAEjOg4i6dVmiQzS02M1w6s0euse6-Q0kk10pVz4-eD7-moNOiaO8Lhu/s640/DSC_0039.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medal close up</td></tr>
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The race offered age group awards for the top 5 runners in their age group and I was lucky enough to place fourth. The age group award for the 5k and 10k were glasses. The half also had either coolers or bags.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ewXwVgn24QylZ8EC1uNofRN9XWKVGme_bGm60_ugIZAYayS_j-Bkt6bDKR8fw3RFyYn8cYpbRyQeuqm_gwTXkIZ2fWlFPVtTmLw-iRujKFEVWW666OQrT_RV6KPX9ejTwVgT8rQF1IOG/s1600/DSC_0029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ewXwVgn24QylZ8EC1uNofRN9XWKVGme_bGm60_ugIZAYayS_j-Bkt6bDKR8fw3RFyYn8cYpbRyQeuqm_gwTXkIZ2fWlFPVtTmLw-iRujKFEVWW666OQrT_RV6KPX9ejTwVgT8rQF1IOG/s640/DSC_0029.jpg" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Age group award for 10k</td></tr>
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<b><u>Organization</u></b><br />
A very well organized race. The set up at Stony is the perfect area for a race and this is one of my more unique races given the various surfaces. The website has all the information you could need to know. The race sends out emails with information so you know what's going on. The start/finish area are well planned. The volunteers know what to do. The races start on time. Excellent job on everything! <br />
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<b><u>Overall</u></b><br />
Overall, this is one of my favorite races of the year. I've run it 4 of the last 5 years and I wouldn't keep coming back to it otherwise. Joe puts his heart and soul into this race and it's no wonder why this one sells out every year. I love the course and the fact this is on my training grounds so I know the area really well. I don't know too many people who have not run this race but, if you have not, this should be on your list for next year. You'll be happy you did it and hopefully it will be a little warmer next year. Haha!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6l8VsLkcK2jqO5XNxWxW9NK739k68XPt85ES6bVvJGR_4be63qsWGENQi8TPiurKNn_6xW3bFp2ZPR-yM1Dw8SQT3vnAodqvsa_FA3RIuNjtq-GTLPbQ8FX8ESvSHfec9x_WDVLa8JDKz/s1600/P1060144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6l8VsLkcK2jqO5XNxWxW9NK739k68XPt85ES6bVvJGR_4be63qsWGENQi8TPiurKNn_6xW3bFp2ZPR-yM1Dw8SQT3vnAodqvsa_FA3RIuNjtq-GTLPbQ8FX8ESvSHfec9x_WDVLa8JDKz/s640/P1060144.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joe (race director) and I after my finish</td></tr>
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Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I paid for this race with my own funds. All opinions are my own.</span>Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-54945201052343457502016-05-18T20:58:00.000-04:002016-05-18T20:58:25.549-04:00River Bank Run 25k race review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><u>Short Version</u></b><br />
Finished in 2:22:14 (official time); first 25k on roads!<br />
Overall Place: 2,132 out of 4,687<br />
Overall Men: 1,464 out of 2,412<br />
Men 45-49: 177 out of 288<br />
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Timed Race #107<br />
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I have been wanting to run the River Bank 25k since I started running. Unfortunately, it's always been on Mother's Day weekend so it was never a good time especially since my wife is NOT a runner. This year they changed the weekend so I had my chance to run it! Overall, a fun race with a nice course. I like running downtown and by the river in Grand Rapids. The last time I was there was 2012 when I ran the marathon. If you have not run this race before, I highly recommend it. It's one to put on your bucket list. It's the largest 25k in the Country!!!!<br />
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<b><u>Long Version</u></b><br />
<b><u>Registration/Packet Pickup</u></b><br />
Registration was very easy as it was all done online. The race had their own website with all information about the race and things were very organized. All your questions were clearly answered on the website and it was easy to use. I actually ended up staying at Yankee Springs State Recreation area for a night of camping. It was only about a 30 minute drive to downtown so not a big issue. If you like to gamble, the Gun Lake Casino is only about 6 miles from the campground too.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji15ihlgNjzBnolkvUJ9bX-BtSjhgG1-X2hh3VOz31gEA4lFSavaQJERD8EydxBagqmUO0-OtNJVY9FtL_zuokV2PbIBt4EHSXbliraKBHH_E0TRB6LJmbhbbyWpjtPFDzgVwFw_JQ4zcH/s1600/IMG_3860.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji15ihlgNjzBnolkvUJ9bX-BtSjhgG1-X2hh3VOz31gEA4lFSavaQJERD8EydxBagqmUO0-OtNJVY9FtL_zuokV2PbIBt4EHSXbliraKBHH_E0TRB6LJmbhbbyWpjtPFDzgVwFw_JQ4zcH/s640/IMG_3860.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yankee Springs entrance</td></tr>
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While I was camping, I didn't get to do much of that. I pretty much set up my tent, picked up my packet, ate dinner and went back to go to sleep. The park itself though is really nice and I'd like to come back and run their many trails as well as the North Country trail that is nearby. I also had planned to eat in downtown Grand Rapids at a brewery but Garth Brooks was also in town this weekend so downtown restaurants were crazy busy. I ended up eating at Noodles which actually was really good.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfUAbxb2tsQfZ28DMfvdID79_cr_VxXZo1JyS1vZ3x-TvjHPeABvbPiZtLv_2BDr0vj5EXGFkQYHGlFDUv9qTk48cwV7zgbJiNIpyb_MGnPl2VBK4TiHgDpWCQuFXg9Qhm-gdwKvxx2vLl/s1600/IMG_3854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfUAbxb2tsQfZ28DMfvdID79_cr_VxXZo1JyS1vZ3x-TvjHPeABvbPiZtLv_2BDr0vj5EXGFkQYHGlFDUv9qTk48cwV7zgbJiNIpyb_MGnPl2VBK4TiHgDpWCQuFXg9Qhm-gdwKvxx2vLl/s640/IMG_3854.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My site on the canal</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My view on my campsite</td></tr>
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Packet pickup was the day before at the expo at the DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids. It is located right next to the start line which made things very easy. This expo was fairly large and was as big as many marathon expos I've been to. You could also pick up your packet that morning if you wanted but I decided to pick up the night before so I didn't have to worry about anything. Actually, it would have been easy to do packet pickup that day because you could have just checked your shirt and other packet information since it was in the same room.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DeVos Place</td></tr>
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As you can see, the expo was pretty large.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Expo</td></tr>
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If you didn't already have your number, you could check for it on computers they had set up by packet pickup.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFIgVrqbdWd4kXMwHKZqdYWgUbdsqrawSKO-vmChlbkcrshdvfEw5Ag0vZ-pIWw-S13jjZCaMHyYCcBQWACEahHKsrlHy_8vQSJVbpBxOGwvftqE68IBISSHn5LQNJ_ys2P-ycS7dT5PlJ/s1600/P1050680.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFIgVrqbdWd4kXMwHKZqdYWgUbdsqrawSKO-vmChlbkcrshdvfEw5Ag0vZ-pIWw-S13jjZCaMHyYCcBQWACEahHKsrlHy_8vQSJVbpBxOGwvftqE68IBISSHn5LQNJ_ys2P-ycS7dT5PlJ/s640/P1050680.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Number search</td></tr>
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After that, you just found your number and got your packet from a volunteer. I could have been in and out in 5 minutes but looked around for some deals too. I didn't end up buying anything but they did have a few deals on shoes.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pickup</td></tr>
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One thing I was looking for was a nice sweatshirt or hat but the race logo stuff was pretty limited - at least by the time I got there which was about 7pm and close to closing time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2oubuFZL8KD_c2YLHqansUoP-X1aHjlxbnxW95uqQVHiDAO4Xc5Rn8saxJB8IkTGoj5YqXMQfRaW7LDofCwcu8C8d8-YsNdUgm5jSj3dnd8dbUvc4sgYiS78iAkkkQEmlBng83MigX2sV/s1600/P1050679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2oubuFZL8KD_c2YLHqansUoP-X1aHjlxbnxW95uqQVHiDAO4Xc5Rn8saxJB8IkTGoj5YqXMQfRaW7LDofCwcu8C8d8-YsNdUgm5jSj3dnd8dbUvc4sgYiS78iAkkkQEmlBng83MigX2sV/s640/P1050679.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Expo</td></tr>
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<b><u>Start Area</u></b><br />
The next morning, after a pretty eventful evening (since it rained literally all night), I got to gear check and decided to check my sweatshirt. There was possibility of rain during the race and I thought it might be useful if I were cold and wet. Turns out it was a good idea since it was cold for most of the race and wet at the end. As you can see, gear check was also very easy.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinSEyH2Arwm7NNSEJ5xtADtc-kIQRj-Hv4QXpVi99rfJRA1bLMuSYsn482cZcxFt9xcVQI1HT93IhFWlGLagm9pok8LDm6O8As8Egi5tw_YTOiWE1V4NF3F7GIHPSmXlBRDjhWjtYY6IXv/s1600/P1050685.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinSEyH2Arwm7NNSEJ5xtADtc-kIQRj-Hv4QXpVi99rfJRA1bLMuSYsn482cZcxFt9xcVQI1HT93IhFWlGLagm9pok8LDm6O8As8Egi5tw_YTOiWE1V4NF3F7GIHPSmXlBRDjhWjtYY6IXv/s640/P1050685.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gear check</td></tr>
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I ended up waiting until about 10 minutes before the race start, inside in a warm building, with real bathrooms (although there were port-o-potties outside too). With that, it was time to get in line for the start.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdk5Wwct_lmGHp320ZC02kbUnWWK7amrdVP1Pw-BNsbXltSi9pxYYIeZ-xd1rSIzWdu5ua_eVAuoxw8gGeexHfWnnT_NQaclqMoxe3U_fhrwe8TkCOV9gm4msuYVGLejMT0BL9Fdd0PH_w/s1600/P1050682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdk5Wwct_lmGHp320ZC02kbUnWWK7amrdVP1Pw-BNsbXltSi9pxYYIeZ-xd1rSIzWdu5ua_eVAuoxw8gGeexHfWnnT_NQaclqMoxe3U_fhrwe8TkCOV9gm4msuYVGLejMT0BL9Fdd0PH_w/s640/P1050682.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start area</td></tr>
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The start was very organized, as it should be, considering they have been doing this race over 30 years and have really perfected the area. Everything was easy to find and organized as you can see by the barriers everywhere.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqn1iVflMsM0jofZ412duJyGlM5QsbfcktHjzCz4H2gBSq9zf54ntthrlMohJHcmtkmzWmaYHIL_6eyTyUYIEZCRFukKVaJ18elenbpx1UTsAKCAIbwWeEs9y0V9zQyfdZth6PXvnxTnkA/s1600/P1050683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqn1iVflMsM0jofZ412duJyGlM5QsbfcktHjzCz4H2gBSq9zf54ntthrlMohJHcmtkmzWmaYHIL_6eyTyUYIEZCRFukKVaJ18elenbpx1UTsAKCAIbwWeEs9y0V9zQyfdZth6PXvnxTnkA/s640/P1050683.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start</td></tr>
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Of course, with about 15,000 runners, it was really busy and crowded but I was easily able to fit in where I wanted. I didn't have a huge pacing plan but figured I go between 9 and 9:30 per mile. If I could, I would at least try and keep a sub 2 pace through the half marathon mark, which I did.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq54eERcGzOVUb8WqOd2DRh2WLfeH1m-cz42cbRaj9_fsNJiXJG7KdyjORfsbXi_I8ZiWuzh8SZBK889HeInzMm6oEBaOEv6qIlexsOAcA6M2a60aEkEFnyAzdq63cF-LZpkNDCMClOUV3/s1600/P1050687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq54eERcGzOVUb8WqOd2DRh2WLfeH1m-cz42cbRaj9_fsNJiXJG7KdyjORfsbXi_I8ZiWuzh8SZBK889HeInzMm6oEBaOEv6qIlexsOAcA6M2a60aEkEFnyAzdq63cF-LZpkNDCMClOUV3/s640/P1050687.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">People behind me as far as the eye can see!</td></tr>
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The race had pacers too which is always helpful in a race. I could barely see the start and it took me over 2 minutes to actually get to the start after the race officially started.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlvgFeEex8Yf-A3lHBlR2crDocxSzsYHSX1jvy-GHNT8JFHr18VMjujNs3dw8vXKBFPvL7BQuEZDkYEUeqbkzXm39Ohd0QEEk_Pw1eE3ythW2fuUpiWdq1PnX0PiC5pm8Xlq6odrjcPvcc/s1600/P1050688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlvgFeEex8Yf-A3lHBlR2crDocxSzsYHSX1jvy-GHNT8JFHr18VMjujNs3dw8vXKBFPvL7BQuEZDkYEUeqbkzXm39Ohd0QEEk_Pw1eE3ythW2fuUpiWdq1PnX0PiC5pm8Xlq6odrjcPvcc/s640/P1050688.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">People in front of me - can barely see the start line!</td></tr>
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<b><u>Course</u></b><br />
The course is a nice loop along the river, hence, River Bank run. It starts in downtown Grand Rapids and goes along the park on both sides of the river. It's a really nice run. I also really enjoy running in the downtown area too. I was able to just barely squeak by with a sub 2 hour half marathon but was not able to keep that pace for the addition miles. As you can see there are a few hills, but overall, still fairly flat.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WdmQYN1QP77eU4Fob83Guv-Dileq1SwlrgrlMH5C2lpKgwcYpXnxQTfFxnN1bDct97CFCYmu2xKGULsAw3Vc4R1iBdWWRUlEKwimH3SoAy4ks8Batxhj_b1DKWt9nsbh039SaUWhWQCr/s1600/map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WdmQYN1QP77eU4Fob83Guv-Dileq1SwlrgrlMH5C2lpKgwcYpXnxQTfFxnN1bDct97CFCYmu2xKGULsAw3Vc4R1iBdWWRUlEKwimH3SoAy4ks8Batxhj_b1DKWt9nsbh039SaUWhWQCr/s640/map.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4ZrQzhDQpfa0QzHQeTLxLpGtRR_TsjLX47nroM4X5NkCa0g63hhl_yBeaFkl8vIJJ1gLeMHQLbeQNGQT6ZmEXIQJ-4hfdHD8E6LK37qTsdvYUMatVY734wFPxnJ1IA4VHxHfDbq-uIlR/s1600/elevation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4ZrQzhDQpfa0QzHQeTLxLpGtRR_TsjLX47nroM4X5NkCa0g63hhl_yBeaFkl8vIJJ1gLeMHQLbeQNGQT6ZmEXIQJ-4hfdHD8E6LK37qTsdvYUMatVY734wFPxnJ1IA4VHxHfDbq-uIlR/s640/elevation.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elevation</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR5puHgyX-3426vNoPXnIVrUq_4Gsyj7MIyPhUbvtsJHp-EhED02VKG4pdbplLKuMV7dtZWqmoRu4-OqtyGSfbhScDG18FW_iqtB5h8TyUscJ4hDrrXoTjISE0EmoY4XBBaEAPnTdz5ewr/s1600/splits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR5puHgyX-3426vNoPXnIVrUq_4Gsyj7MIyPhUbvtsJHp-EhED02VKG4pdbplLKuMV7dtZWqmoRu4-OqtyGSfbhScDG18FW_iqtB5h8TyUscJ4hDrrXoTjISE0EmoY4XBBaEAPnTdz5ewr/s640/splits.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Splits</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I would have really enjoyed running more in the downtown area. It's really nice to run around the large buildings and check out downtown.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtY_eYaFGlzC9qSBdPNbXr7SPzgx1ZShXpFOplDGmlLNPH2GyKXBhv7vqfaFO-BSTMuvZowMg1ayxApxwGg8yjMnXBZfN7eiMTyhYdzblH2BUPXZBy-IdjTMW0sn4rfQceEQsupufEgsE0/s1600/P1050691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtY_eYaFGlzC9qSBdPNbXr7SPzgx1ZShXpFOplDGmlLNPH2GyKXBhv7vqfaFO-BSTMuvZowMg1ayxApxwGg8yjMnXBZfN7eiMTyhYdzblH2BUPXZBy-IdjTMW0sn4rfQceEQsupufEgsE0/s640/P1050691.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And we are off!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMMd2ZfRzzMG00_P0DjDEHFtO3L-ajlx2Z0mhzDGK8Du1OimJZaP31XD-pDQY3MfyZbquecirN7by0mnzr7bqdE8_Yf2wl0XaPYgBr35ib3tfYLZmPWGfcWcvY-cEVJ1Gu1ml8MIxweqOJ/s1600/P1050696.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMMd2ZfRzzMG00_P0DjDEHFtO3L-ajlx2Z0mhzDGK8Du1OimJZaP31XD-pDQY3MfyZbquecirN7by0mnzr7bqdE8_Yf2wl0XaPYgBr35ib3tfYLZmPWGfcWcvY-cEVJ1Gu1ml8MIxweqOJ/s640/P1050696.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downtown start</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We passed by a couple of the local breweries in the area. I didn't have time to partake in them this time because I had to head back home for another race on Sunday morning. I think if I were to go to the race again, I'd go with my wife and enjoy the entire weekend. There's a casino near the campground but staying downtown would have meant more sleep. Also, you could walk everywhere downtown once parked so you could enjoy the breweries.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkTf8q56-w_jEmVnM1zhZJyiyCvvkZ-mml-s4Pfxk0pLXA7gXwLd85sQMOcyx7psiawSttI4KVBSNjFnWbaS5B0pWxcg0SxVQBwxMc-ODCcn4c5D8mM-x9PGobhH4U74spULGGn38ipcVs/s1600/P1050697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkTf8q56-w_jEmVnM1zhZJyiyCvvkZ-mml-s4Pfxk0pLXA7gXwLd85sQMOcyx7psiawSttI4KVBSNjFnWbaS5B0pWxcg0SxVQBwxMc-ODCcn4c5D8mM-x9PGobhH4U74spULGGn38ipcVs/s640/P1050697.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">B.O.B. Brewery</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Soon we were making our way out of the downtown area.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMczt2ka6V9fEANrMyTt-mYS0NiZhdftOvrY5kMQGmzymb1n9jk2kiaIsxCoKTHyN-dpBnpQy0nDBEEOvYzij42x4G2thzeGrPu1eW_ZM2WUUz6QU3cAeLzUMglA0Tfo9OEG6dijUYWMjv/s1600/P1050702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMczt2ka6V9fEANrMyTt-mYS0NiZhdftOvrY5kMQGmzymb1n9jk2kiaIsxCoKTHyN-dpBnpQy0nDBEEOvYzij42x4G2thzeGrPu1eW_ZM2WUUz6QU3cAeLzUMglA0Tfo9OEG6dijUYWMjv/s640/P1050702.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I passed one of my favorite breweries, Founders Brewing Co, that makes awesome beer!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUZCcqBiphdlN41m6Dt4B0rUX7SPhmAvyxsF0y7bBhCxT-TNNZLgerFXwGIXg_ks568bKx035I2bBULaVVk063i4xvavovT2EybpKqZABboxIUdqL5HpEmry7sYVTEN6x9afhxMeOuvB7H/s1600/P1050707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUZCcqBiphdlN41m6Dt4B0rUX7SPhmAvyxsF0y7bBhCxT-TNNZLgerFXwGIXg_ks568bKx035I2bBULaVVk063i4xvavovT2EybpKqZABboxIUdqL5HpEmry7sYVTEN6x9afhxMeOuvB7H/s640/P1050707.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Founders Brewing Co</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I had not been right next to the 9 minute pacers at the start but ended up catching up to them fairly quickly.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhORBswlCD9qw8x07xNkJy4Dp2B3sfXD_xzC9IvFJRC4Khp_qeLxK3J5lv93QSXLqDesbdPoDA9ORJGypdYbX8y6HsVrNDyW88oeY85qWPV0HWPCzWqf-wv89cSq97n5xMndGd5hOgUxYiE/s1600/P1050716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhORBswlCD9qw8x07xNkJy4Dp2B3sfXD_xzC9IvFJRC4Khp_qeLxK3J5lv93QSXLqDesbdPoDA9ORJGypdYbX8y6HsVrNDyW88oeY85qWPV0HWPCzWqf-wv89cSq97n5xMndGd5hOgUxYiE/s640/P1050716.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">9:00 pacers</td></tr>
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I figured I would try and hang with them as long as I could. Unfortunately, they were running behind and picked up the pace to catch up so I dropped back from them. Each mile marker was not only marked with the mile (as well as km), it also had the time. Of course, this was gun time so I was two minutes behind that.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoctXmvgJpYcih4J0U9wmdapiI4aHeOGVUcxHfCoC_jpoEMbeES9SkC1wC0CMvYRHNEHK-bAJGq1m5B5rvA0m-MXbBRlu0HFYr5l_kxgku38ectHwS-BBIrKepTMdkemHCX9uVp-Pl7ugb/s1600/P1050718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoctXmvgJpYcih4J0U9wmdapiI4aHeOGVUcxHfCoC_jpoEMbeES9SkC1wC0CMvYRHNEHK-bAJGq1m5B5rvA0m-MXbBRlu0HFYr5l_kxgku38ectHwS-BBIrKepTMdkemHCX9uVp-Pl7ugb/s640/P1050718.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The course had plenty of port-o-potties in various areas. In fact, I'd even say that maybe more than needed but better to be more than less.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5g9mZQnbH6KyM6odNOkefH87uBBptU3xgsJIHui7jMlHv8rQz8okXUN-a1R0TCN8G8O37l1n6TiKeLJNpfzVw6g2oeRu91bfVXGT10WHEYKbX4eakS75lDhrKlhdMd2XxRmUa7O_lKBFh/s1600/P1050720.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5g9mZQnbH6KyM6odNOkefH87uBBptU3xgsJIHui7jMlHv8rQz8okXUN-a1R0TCN8G8O37l1n6TiKeLJNpfzVw6g2oeRu91bfVXGT10WHEYKbX4eakS75lDhrKlhdMd2XxRmUa7O_lKBFh/s640/P1050720.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Port-o-potties on course</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We then started seeing parts of the river. I will say that this race is much different that I've become accustomed to because I'm used to having 200 people start and being on all trails. It was a nice change of pace actually to run a large race.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMjgth4i6H43Oc0Q-pIbDFo7LNlSMRKqsRZ47ytaIg87kYrDR_TdGC5ZcAaqxdeXn0SsDdUZnUIFiiRhorcaT62UnxFX6teiolBsqX4P29weCiuN9O45vzPZOgjBouMffHOJna4xrqy7zN/s1600/P1050725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMjgth4i6H43Oc0Q-pIbDFo7LNlSMRKqsRZ47ytaIg87kYrDR_TdGC5ZcAaqxdeXn0SsDdUZnUIFiiRhorcaT62UnxFX6teiolBsqX4P29weCiuN9O45vzPZOgjBouMffHOJna4xrqy7zN/s640/P1050725.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River next to us</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As we got into mile three, we got to a more wooded area which remained for numerous miles and went along the river.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoKnwOIJ2INKQ4HIVLDDdYFUrTBp85Fd9gwVozLjimusPZ6ANgauaeUzG3LvByFdS9TVmaXwqMaYZFUZUwbkKGxRSHq8XGmE8waobzrQhR_zqgrxm38DSmnQvhMg1o6LYRJ0wRueEUC3ca/s1600/P1050732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoKnwOIJ2INKQ4HIVLDDdYFUrTBp85Fd9gwVozLjimusPZ6ANgauaeUzG3LvByFdS9TVmaXwqMaYZFUZUwbkKGxRSHq8XGmE8waobzrQhR_zqgrxm38DSmnQvhMg1o6LYRJ0wRueEUC3ca/s640/P1050732.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I kind of tried to break the race into five segments, each being 5k so it was nice to see a sign each time you past the next 5k on the course.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji8K_r0HMt5uNJh2n_N0vSjo-TDvF47WZw9tolHX0vm3jrRQ2LRzDkDFSlBOJ1ucypuQvwcraOefB2JrY8hTnDhfQGm9bBbGiTaAQcydloXwvv5pU2xQ-zJH7l-miH5oLpSO2QJR1gyMdT/s1600/P1050734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji8K_r0HMt5uNJh2n_N0vSjo-TDvF47WZw9tolHX0vm3jrRQ2LRzDkDFSlBOJ1ucypuQvwcraOefB2JrY8hTnDhfQGm9bBbGiTaAQcydloXwvv5pU2xQ-zJH7l-miH5oLpSO2QJR1gyMdT/s640/P1050734.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">5k mark</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I got quite a few pictures of the aid stations since they were plentiful so I just left all the pictures in this section rather than cut them over to the Aid Station section of the race report. You will see they are well stocked with lots of volunteers, plenty of water and gatorade. I did find it odd that the race did not offer any Gu or nutrition (outside of orange slices). Good thing I read about that as I was just going to use whatever they had on course. I ended up buying a couple Gu at the expo since I didn't bring any.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwm4GG0V38wLVWODTskuuJok_5015XhbW8F551koqIseN_WS6Ner33IEW5kEc3otaUyEMbgaGXBN-cogLO4il-oWsVlq_nb7l-lofLC7Je-tipWzN7uWJQxSn0t-e4ZVhiipTJVFUaKyup/s1600/P1050735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwm4GG0V38wLVWODTskuuJok_5015XhbW8F551koqIseN_WS6Ner33IEW5kEc3otaUyEMbgaGXBN-cogLO4il-oWsVlq_nb7l-lofLC7Je-tipWzN7uWJQxSn0t-e4ZVhiipTJVFUaKyup/s640/P1050735.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big aid stations</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfi7kiK5TG3u0wGexXpGqW6T86P_c_8vTCYshmtQOM0skhqlUl9sRaak9_gaYEmwjrHNEVTOUznv2-xcxHZbP2YNl9x64WUKhyXrzGn41qS6k_Gs8XRf9KAL6nNVHbzu0llhUvTJXN9IBg/s1600/P1050737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfi7kiK5TG3u0wGexXpGqW6T86P_c_8vTCYshmtQOM0skhqlUl9sRaak9_gaYEmwjrHNEVTOUznv2-xcxHZbP2YNl9x64WUKhyXrzGn41qS6k_Gs8XRf9KAL6nNVHbzu0llhUvTJXN9IBg/s640/P1050737.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOeH3RxCzSx41PedwNLdH2k_td5l_FJXlYoxYeH6UEJrBvGkMjqHVwjWXmI5yrBvkTsAiydDwdmiEjfecNYO_gLZvP5o4x9upWRntQYSy4G1DW7KOO53kRLDTBmBSnz4CsLNBpZgo__7lT/s1600/P1050744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOeH3RxCzSx41PedwNLdH2k_td5l_FJXlYoxYeH6UEJrBvGkMjqHVwjWXmI5yrBvkTsAiydDwdmiEjfecNYO_gLZvP5o4x9upWRntQYSy4G1DW7KOO53kRLDTBmBSnz4CsLNBpZgo__7lT/s640/P1050744.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 4</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We had now run from Grand Rapids to Grandville - over 4 miles.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1pB7X0RZzMOlOwGe5fQJ1pH9Ot8V17pVeJYpEXHIUteQ0gMzptkNW0NpE5IYsWERMtj9k5MMhx8clawdMugsaR__o438aFUsE4FinUo_IclbCmw0Y-NDsaGkzOtXbH1itzY0V3qJz4kGs/s1600/P1050747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1pB7X0RZzMOlOwGe5fQJ1pH9Ot8V17pVeJYpEXHIUteQ0gMzptkNW0NpE5IYsWERMtj9k5MMhx8clawdMugsaR__o438aFUsE4FinUo_IclbCmw0Y-NDsaGkzOtXbH1itzY0V3qJz4kGs/s640/P1050747.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhonaoQcjC8tYLMxUpyWpvkzWknMl5yAnfKF0ybGBmLnf8cirwYSX-eOuhvD4H3RBgmDXd2Fx1ykK6Ar3ENWwvV0XRkTNxK8I3BMJ9nk75Wx9hHmb1Vr8Z_v6AckjbBxUMOXP9ylbp7dXov/s1600/P1050756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhonaoQcjC8tYLMxUpyWpvkzWknMl5yAnfKF0ybGBmLnf8cirwYSX-eOuhvD4H3RBgmDXd2Fx1ykK6Ar3ENWwvV0XRkTNxK8I3BMJ9nk75Wx9hHmb1Vr8Z_v6AckjbBxUMOXP9ylbp7dXov/s640/P1050756.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 5</td></tr>
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I was happy to see that it just rained the night before and the rain was holding off. It would have been really miserable with the cold and rain. Without the rain, the cool temperatures helped for racing. I also had forgot to bring bandaids (yes, for my nipples). I was really worried about it but it didn't end up being too bad given the cold.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZUH4mxZMNk05O9GdxVLBSYbauqsW0L-E_-vMsPb2j7pOq8qZOBXG5FvFpMZ237ujes0hmZ-3z6G27uVviFrHwt74EKz_jlUTqWtc_zl2vmCqWEetgtiuPqmRMKkdtWdwyynkX-53_uyRI/s1600/P1050763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZUH4mxZMNk05O9GdxVLBSYbauqsW0L-E_-vMsPb2j7pOq8qZOBXG5FvFpMZ237ujes0hmZ-3z6G27uVviFrHwt74EKz_jlUTqWtc_zl2vmCqWEetgtiuPqmRMKkdtWdwyynkX-53_uyRI/s640/P1050763.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">10k mark</td></tr>
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There were also a few spots on the course where there were cheer stations. This really felt more like a marathon than a shorter distance.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4N21hBEYHV46ZGJlMUOkySW7fTr48HSZY8nX7HD9YaRS6eh1Ho7UMOvpi3XgnzSV5re_853pEXBe1XExb8tjISg-GYYE7xQm_lIcKZI24iniJihAXO5K78agGBU980DMf_stBqoXLulR5/s1600/P1050766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4N21hBEYHV46ZGJlMUOkySW7fTr48HSZY8nX7HD9YaRS6eh1Ho7UMOvpi3XgnzSV5re_853pEXBe1XExb8tjISg-GYYE7xQm_lIcKZI24iniJihAXO5K78agGBU980DMf_stBqoXLulR5/s640/P1050766.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheer station</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The crowd support was also pretty good and was even crowded in some places on the course. Its nice to give you a boost of confidence when you hear people cheering for you.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDVoFozI5N4Q3aSZZgDhyphenhyphenfn7QqnZ1i9loRg574tyzPOiiJZ_iIVgzAidwgbDe59WflzvGAeZbq0UKg-63GMpBeItfhYken1PWF7k8xpFEFNMc6aBy-LLvzsL6zoEjQg2QiictylOCw8XSe/s1600/P1050772.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDVoFozI5N4Q3aSZZgDhyphenhyphenfn7QqnZ1i9loRg574tyzPOiiJZ_iIVgzAidwgbDe59WflzvGAeZbq0UKg-63GMpBeItfhYken1PWF7k8xpFEFNMc6aBy-LLvzsL6zoEjQg2QiictylOCw8XSe/s640/P1050772.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good crowd support</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Soon we were near the turn around point as we crossed over the river and started to head back to the finish.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuemj2MQMuk6EaufWtO-vMI6c723mVZhe6go9Dk0yMAZfUKWBR_G3e9MT0nJ5mrwYMoLaKHfhiRpWv28lEPooNEwgBjyURLjKXkeX7Q_fC89BgVzPMQwcO3eFZD89kaN9rKkfr7mpQ_JKS/s1600/P1050773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuemj2MQMuk6EaufWtO-vMI6c723mVZhe6go9Dk0yMAZfUKWBR_G3e9MT0nJ5mrwYMoLaKHfhiRpWv28lEPooNEwgBjyURLjKXkeX7Q_fC89BgVzPMQwcO3eFZD89kaN9rKkfr7mpQ_JKS/s640/P1050773.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing over the river</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtk3JcwYH0z74omAcTrYN6abNmTaWLgAy97jvkbkJ0oYwC6vhm1uvi82HAaBdeobNtvFaxaFrN79Yevzn7YEd15JPpo9FiLjL-hXAFzlnJmBm_uK8IMYhtz785ZwCXawQnrjZALlQYDjIa/s1600/P1050777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtk3JcwYH0z74omAcTrYN6abNmTaWLgAy97jvkbkJ0oYwC6vhm1uvi82HAaBdeobNtvFaxaFrN79Yevzn7YEd15JPpo9FiLjL-hXAFzlnJmBm_uK8IMYhtz785ZwCXawQnrjZALlQYDjIa/s640/P1050777.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More crowd</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The race had a couple timing mats that we ran over to help keep track of timing. I believe this was around the 6.5 mile point or so?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYOjfGhh4NJM5Lqqouz8nikHyR03GxD4nI5xstoGSnRuNfi1YN_VbvxI7_rCeF2LFrdiC_kJFUoKFKa-ocDbbZ0drYVBGmV0JnSEORRJ_81YNDebDagQNDXuj2UOj6eRrVmEUzuod3Jgvy/s1600/P1050780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYOjfGhh4NJM5Lqqouz8nikHyR03GxD4nI5xstoGSnRuNfi1YN_VbvxI7_rCeF2LFrdiC_kJFUoKFKa-ocDbbZ0drYVBGmV0JnSEORRJ_81YNDebDagQNDXuj2UOj6eRrVmEUzuod3Jgvy/s640/P1050780.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Timing mat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Ph-cFiNaBwdGaEhO9TvVuvbVfSwySG9oDkd42uyz1eYZA9g8WIHtMxxU9w9s19lamOsgkhxpYTq2g7ydl-o9iMIljR5cRh1ONNdQ_YI_ih4RwS0x9hMHYlwNHvO5uN5BscCr4CnfA07O/s1600/P1050788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Ph-cFiNaBwdGaEhO9TvVuvbVfSwySG9oDkd42uyz1eYZA9g8WIHtMxxU9w9s19lamOsgkhxpYTq2g7ydl-o9iMIljR5cRh1ONNdQ_YI_ih4RwS0x9hMHYlwNHvO5uN5BscCr4CnfA07O/s640/P1050788.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 7</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was amazing that you always had runners running by you all the time. You can see that even after seven miles, there were still people near you - actually through the entire race.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFsiX73pGHtBSWCIj3_gqfbkWB29Z7fd5Kgr8WS5-0MnDDY6cElRn49dHLwoOtUX-43IQE-8FED9lqzNnkSAVukukiQMi55lKiQc5Xly8K08Q6amFj1kv68VhIPKsqPBNIFrcOCj0dI_c/s1600/P1050795.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFsiX73pGHtBSWCIj3_gqfbkWB29Z7fd5Kgr8WS5-0MnDDY6cElRn49dHLwoOtUX-43IQE-8FED9lqzNnkSAVukukiQMi55lKiQc5Xly8K08Q6amFj1kv68VhIPKsqPBNIFrcOCj0dI_c/s640/P1050795.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii5X7R67mQA6NHoNZOr7Pqj3blZiSGMgjZqd-nqlbagpbiKoyToGtqbhcrjjwux7TIOyeGFV4iXavX14fKR3gZeFlyWbcnFwNucZetlLqV9BYYAv_BYmD9WrMVjwtU0ucOM5PuWNhiLpM-/s1600/P1050796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii5X7R67mQA6NHoNZOr7Pqj3blZiSGMgjZqd-nqlbagpbiKoyToGtqbhcrjjwux7TIOyeGFV4iXavX14fKR3gZeFlyWbcnFwNucZetlLqV9BYYAv_BYmD9WrMVjwtU0ucOM5PuWNhiLpM-/s640/P1050796.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still fairly crowded</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZr1X0EmvrP9MA5B5nnKn-B4umXn8_yhUmw4-GmJtyqMZ05mjWGI5nuBe20ZTHj6arP219wjOC2Gz4YInEtpm6Rs8ZuOVhNRhyphenhyphenSt_mt_7iUhZasBNvHKvwFmVVolxgQ_qN98ILafoqizt/s1600/P1050801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZr1X0EmvrP9MA5B5nnKn-B4umXn8_yhUmw4-GmJtyqMZ05mjWGI5nuBe20ZTHj6arP219wjOC2Gz4YInEtpm6Rs8ZuOVhNRhyphenhyphenSt_mt_7iUhZasBNvHKvwFmVVolxgQ_qN98ILafoqizt/s640/P1050801.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Finally we were at the half-way point in the race! Yeah!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxxaG6DPhl6qVcQkOzdWY3cNX59ygPY_E9rhtsfoMBvDThAcJXB2-OxQ0F8ur5JYAtzwydfpk81ihbAioFGGF1MPnUExp3vmFDPrrVmTT8izD02FY9cxNvtT0ZrQcIj2oho88MzgExvMA/s1600/P1050810.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxxaG6DPhl6qVcQkOzdWY3cNX59ygPY_E9rhtsfoMBvDThAcJXB2-OxQ0F8ur5JYAtzwydfpk81ihbAioFGGF1MPnUExp3vmFDPrrVmTT8izD02FY9cxNvtT0ZrQcIj2oho88MzgExvMA/s640/P1050810.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1/2 way!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTkaH3FnSNOlrL5gF4Hsr8TKnyrJf_kHQdnJNWmp1uCyUwZrpx76-gub3MrSScGqC58UIIBuvvGY3lx3L3rMy9n563SaE4tqA5EQllU6wdZsSizInC518Tz3kdYwDFYYkPXBWwtgNN6aUi/s1600/P1050814.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTkaH3FnSNOlrL5gF4Hsr8TKnyrJf_kHQdnJNWmp1uCyUwZrpx76-gub3MrSScGqC58UIIBuvvGY3lx3L3rMy9n563SaE4tqA5EQllU6wdZsSizInC518Tz3kdYwDFYYkPXBWwtgNN6aUi/s640/P1050814.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 8?</td></tr>
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You can see below we had to run up some slight uphills but nothing too dramatic. This was actually one of the bigger climbs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nop0RslnhRyee6CwyGCFrEK7wc6qsbGYEa2gMju1sHzlwEQeUFkOgXruwRWN4qYd85zLAkCeNFk1KeWf9VYcPJGJ2SqX08Hy57KFtTQ2UYyiekYKwbCrDe42CE5CI9xETM59k36UsHFN/s1600/P1050817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nop0RslnhRyee6CwyGCFrEK7wc6qsbGYEa2gMju1sHzlwEQeUFkOgXruwRWN4qYd85zLAkCeNFk1KeWf9VYcPJGJ2SqX08Hy57KFtTQ2UYyiekYKwbCrDe42CE5CI9xETM59k36UsHFN/s640/P1050817.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A couple smaller hills</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Below was actually the biggest hill on the course and it was not that long so nothing to worry about if you are worried about running hills.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjT8LBOyn8cw4w-oODkVdZ0B9kjb5sWdvka0gHGo_SChRE_T2MK7Mml1dnfigtHdN7WOzlGTFXkI9FTmsQE-H4maqbH8VRnPLxrpf7RCtttd9ki_q9Vz9SI0h7FcmuDAEAddlLUuKTiD0t/s1600/P1050829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjT8LBOyn8cw4w-oODkVdZ0B9kjb5sWdvka0gHGo_SChRE_T2MK7Mml1dnfigtHdN7WOzlGTFXkI9FTmsQE-H4maqbH8VRnPLxrpf7RCtttd9ki_q9Vz9SI0h7FcmuDAEAddlLUuKTiD0t/s640/P1050829.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not so small hill - looks worse than it is though</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Jdqcx-1rE3ArsnnD2OXco9g0rjWjP3laSmk3V3z5W9feRiPqvE20u_YiKYpEBuBNS9jv24Tx5mBAYcndUvwhx7iNGpStznr1hrkYxy1tL2XQeSEQ5qyWdMYm4zF5n7I4ZtCH2i4hRWRE/s1600/P1050836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Jdqcx-1rE3ArsnnD2OXco9g0rjWjP3laSmk3V3z5W9feRiPqvE20u_YiKYpEBuBNS9jv24Tx5mBAYcndUvwhx7iNGpStznr1hrkYxy1tL2XQeSEQ5qyWdMYm4zF5n7I4ZtCH2i4hRWRE/s640/P1050836.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 9</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Soon we were at the entrance of Millennium Park. It would have been nice to take a detour in there. I believe that the marathon went through there more but I don't remember exactly how.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJAaBg-5YDMPJP1FqlGa_t2i8IyDc7psLCwwvKyzgW6j_UtciLYiZkeI0AiXD9tI9blWkeDpRqtFby9h6pECyhBOvOwEFUt46A6tEpXmmzQOROsMC15M3oxt1Rd4Z0OjqsplDamgJ8uj6W/s1600/P1050838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJAaBg-5YDMPJP1FqlGa_t2i8IyDc7psLCwwvKyzgW6j_UtciLYiZkeI0AiXD9tI9blWkeDpRqtFby9h6pECyhBOvOwEFUt46A6tEpXmmzQOROsMC15M3oxt1Rd4Z0OjqsplDamgJ8uj6W/s640/P1050838.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to Millenium Park</td></tr>
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As we came up to this point, there was an older woman on the bridge who was cheering for people and she had one of her legs over the rail. Not sure what was going on there?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPXR0ERm78A0npmzvUP87HBgsZiExZbCjau3gaRpcNw6xmZLwOGDrdmogeK8aJsOeEbHXGEDpFrEN-LMHnh6n10miSd2afqe7XsoIFr0DPHENOJeBFXuPTxdIcWrdsvAv7tl2JkSWO7u2L/s1600/P1050843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPXR0ERm78A0npmzvUP87HBgsZiExZbCjau3gaRpcNw6xmZLwOGDrdmogeK8aJsOeEbHXGEDpFrEN-LMHnh6n10miSd2afqe7XsoIFr0DPHENOJeBFXuPTxdIcWrdsvAv7tl2JkSWO7u2L/s640/P1050843.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCxV9JYSCDunNiAMLumuMwblRSWF2Er3MPMivE0nTm4GQwqJuUzBbuRtVQzEURYiSLpjcvaR8ZUzzy2KWY-HgfZ9LUaIg06sRcVnJSO4RBhJyvSXE1CcemawQGs-gy4YMw9ftVRsJsw1FR/s1600/P1050846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCxV9JYSCDunNiAMLumuMwblRSWF2Er3MPMivE0nTm4GQwqJuUzBbuRtVQzEURYiSLpjcvaR8ZUzzy2KWY-HgfZ9LUaIg06sRcVnJSO4RBhJyvSXE1CcemawQGs-gy4YMw9ftVRsJsw1FR/s640/P1050846.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">15k mark</td></tr>
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We then ran past a nice lake called Lake Leota.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTIsaXq5wD0o1lqZt4k_EkIbvGgnQA1CxcslvVJLwVChKqt2BjC3kns4gHXOTEI4oQwYfRUZ89dqFWqin1zHBj5aABYZFyjnPz12iCJ9wAzCUohPORhPvJGPqOURO4GMWPJZTKqPcH2Uy8/s1600/P1050849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTIsaXq5wD0o1lqZt4k_EkIbvGgnQA1CxcslvVJLwVChKqt2BjC3kns4gHXOTEI4oQwYfRUZ89dqFWqin1zHBj5aABYZFyjnPz12iCJ9wAzCUohPORhPvJGPqOURO4GMWPJZTKqPcH2Uy8/s640/P1050849.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ran past a nice lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You can see that some of the spectators had Winter coats on during the race. Yeah, it was unseasonably cool.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CfOlbUpd9PPD5VgJEnVHT2O_8auH2DG907bkoK438l-MheJ9WOtdOmzgS6L135C0y7BZegrehwKyLwtwnUGe-QRt3lJQUcYsLjG4MtQk0zbe0OFbQxNiikBcyFH-ZFPmbVaC80Z24YDp/s1600/P1050853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CfOlbUpd9PPD5VgJEnVHT2O_8auH2DG907bkoK438l-MheJ9WOtdOmzgS6L135C0y7BZegrehwKyLwtwnUGe-QRt3lJQUcYsLjG4MtQk0zbe0OFbQxNiikBcyFH-ZFPmbVaC80Z24YDp/s640/P1050853.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good crowds here</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiERSFo1vfOLfKdzCH5cWnWQwUZnSiu6wf2B112Y71AnysGapoEWryvYthr_qtZygmHmwYbohuR8bDohzBeMHlywknC3j3G1nn_qw2XY_b3J38AN-sFGXks4YdiN29Z8uLqvpO4DZQW2eZA/s1600/P1050859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiERSFo1vfOLfKdzCH5cWnWQwUZnSiu6wf2B112Y71AnysGapoEWryvYthr_qtZygmHmwYbohuR8bDohzBeMHlywknC3j3G1nn_qw2XY_b3J38AN-sFGXks4YdiN29Z8uLqvpO4DZQW2eZA/s640/P1050859.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 10</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As I got to the double digit portion, I was starting to get tired as I've not been used to running this fast of pace since I'm mostly on trails.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgss2mA2-DlP2cnYKyF5kifxacFX4ZUTQEUK6xV0jcxHZoG_xkXSrq7WY2DGtGgyWzhRMuwxOiUVXP9W9-6hFtj93o63YVLk8C5iNjZzeuVGlH_4LKe7bCHVJutXTcW18z-lYiazUrqe5II/s1600/P1050864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgss2mA2-DlP2cnYKyF5kifxacFX4ZUTQEUK6xV0jcxHZoG_xkXSrq7WY2DGtGgyWzhRMuwxOiUVXP9W9-6hFtj93o63YVLk8C5iNjZzeuVGlH_4LKe7bCHVJutXTcW18z-lYiazUrqe5II/s640/P1050864.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI6tE7bfwBBVwgyGx2fEasEAZrGKpleDdM4_RbqVR7DIM0nJFpNE0MEBHQ5r7b17JsgCwf-MigdwVY_iB_sVCZbxZDuovptRP3XqwvEx7obz4EEiON_9LktNwfmKcxwJFYU0wyS19iwCJu/s1600/P1050870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI6tE7bfwBBVwgyGx2fEasEAZrGKpleDdM4_RbqVR7DIM0nJFpNE0MEBHQ5r7b17JsgCwf-MigdwVY_iB_sVCZbxZDuovptRP3XqwvEx7obz4EEiON_9LktNwfmKcxwJFYU0wyS19iwCJu/s640/P1050870.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcNoBl1fM0xWd3FfDkorhem9MHj_xNKQaNBip6P-Xtj1fR5QVzyQXVJFJcdE_wvI8ShRL7DfI4PcoV3jI2lj_QjTxt1dDzDAdTN33NsVK_io7JELRWEa0C5jHAC5aq8Vn4jtg5bu6HP8Y/s1600/P1050876.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcNoBl1fM0xWd3FfDkorhem9MHj_xNKQaNBip6P-Xtj1fR5QVzyQXVJFJcdE_wvI8ShRL7DfI4PcoV3jI2lj_QjTxt1dDzDAdTN33NsVK_io7JELRWEa0C5jHAC5aq8Vn4jtg5bu6HP8Y/s640/P1050876.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 11</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I took a picture of these two girls because I loved the shirt. It says "The Struggle is real" and has a poop pile running. Hah!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeJBbZegcDsSlwAg2Xp-ZmeSRmAJ9gg-4Km2NDn_Wym-b5vjZgGSjgkBLYWraOOZ9uIPKDPpBrLP0sqqofCV9vHGxZcbnDXY6Gylg1q8xH_7YR3tludXYMR_56iSdsPsCTsPH5Xl1_vRM5/s1600/P1050884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeJBbZegcDsSlwAg2Xp-ZmeSRmAJ9gg-4Km2NDn_Wym-b5vjZgGSjgkBLYWraOOZ9uIPKDPpBrLP0sqqofCV9vHGxZcbnDXY6Gylg1q8xH_7YR3tludXYMR_56iSdsPsCTsPH5Xl1_vRM5/s640/P1050884.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great shirts!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The course also had a few bands to listen too as well which is always a nice touch for a race, especially when it's not a marathon. I would have liked to see even more bands out there.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjegXASG9K-zZSahYbSbGWCFYYQKvWXVbff8aA7Kt5hlYf5aKufiUfVFZWsKfTujJciUw7JlIOXJi9T-tcZTb_UeUKaSln5C16cJvk8foOOkWeGYUrZ0943GhjufiuDX8k0aHk5euuy5kfn/s1600/P1050889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjegXASG9K-zZSahYbSbGWCFYYQKvWXVbff8aA7Kt5hlYf5aKufiUfVFZWsKfTujJciUw7JlIOXJi9T-tcZTb_UeUKaSln5C16cJvk8foOOkWeGYUrZ0943GhjufiuDX8k0aHk5euuy5kfn/s640/P1050889.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few bands on course</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Another timing mat coming up as there was also a relay option for the race. I believe this was a spot for runners to transition to the next runner.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU0oc468rhtb1d16YvUj0tbcB8dj-D0xlG4i6DxXuDW9xEBpaNDPnl6R0C516jvUxqXGR94q0e1_6A58eGw0pFb1KF6iTLcGAXkUx78LAA-lMHENMTeiI4h46kytdtm0KBo_pktR7jc5y4/s1600/P1050898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU0oc468rhtb1d16YvUj0tbcB8dj-D0xlG4i6DxXuDW9xEBpaNDPnl6R0C516jvUxqXGR94q0e1_6A58eGw0pFb1KF6iTLcGAXkUx78LAA-lMHENMTeiI4h46kytdtm0KBo_pktR7jc5y4/s640/P1050898.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More timing mats</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtU-jhiF-enSTkEti__GWI1a-U9jSEMiyUQuykNSwC_WlKn1Xm58S4aPdZ-GMH0eBUtfrgS81Qhpu0KXvKNzRzXck_X18GrWRpJWy57bNi68G9cdPqHEgQNWjYrSU7xTr2pm6Jccq8U_BK/s1600/P1050904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtU-jhiF-enSTkEti__GWI1a-U9jSEMiyUQuykNSwC_WlKn1Xm58S4aPdZ-GMH0eBUtfrgS81Qhpu0KXvKNzRzXck_X18GrWRpJWy57bNi68G9cdPqHEgQNWjYrSU7xTr2pm6Jccq8U_BK/s640/P1050904.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 12</td></tr>
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We passed a Coke production facility too which was kind of neat. The lady in the pink had a sign on her back that said she had gone through breast cancer, a brain tumor and a stress fracture and she was still running. It was very inspiring.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ5wTZTaeHJArV7ZGsTSR5df03JnGhGgLeuICnooVY3_cdagwsznXHwUEdRsrzf2Cw6hJmuljacvQsNPXPb5lc_gVaQFRc1h4jB6OnixLBXLx0bvD2nzMRsXuZDyKccGeGwUkYK1y1L_Xk/s1600/P1050913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ5wTZTaeHJArV7ZGsTSR5df03JnGhGgLeuICnooVY3_cdagwsznXHwUEdRsrzf2Cw6hJmuljacvQsNPXPb5lc_gVaQFRc1h4jB6OnixLBXLx0bvD2nzMRsXuZDyKccGeGwUkYK1y1L_Xk/s640/P1050913.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coco-Cola</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7WpesvDuarR0qCARfTXJhZE0OQjLYlbnuTvfQw5SDotb8I9pqCnjSNA78Mf8alyXEY6eaoTfr0ETR_n9vvo6fJYDSUxtii8zlug6nqXVCpPhWm_3MlLsS70ChFMRRaHac3BuMSarbseCX/s1600/P1050917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7WpesvDuarR0qCARfTXJhZE0OQjLYlbnuTvfQw5SDotb8I9pqCnjSNA78Mf8alyXEY6eaoTfr0ETR_n9vvo6fJYDSUxtii8zlug6nqXVCpPhWm_3MlLsS70ChFMRRaHac3BuMSarbseCX/s640/P1050917.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">20k mark</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The trees down this street were cool as I like the maples all lined up. There was always something to look at on the course no matter how little.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuUzDniTzRWJrjwRzavSHek_Yx_T-djdFCseH1FylmoCJ2nVZraoXNg0lvolsqM-YZBnverxz6qr7jHcKL_cD3VjgBJjziaFKMQwwUAmFKK3hCkcqEIYmX1W-SkhbHOXFXiEruU-brBAUb/s1600/P1050929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuUzDniTzRWJrjwRzavSHek_Yx_T-djdFCseH1FylmoCJ2nVZraoXNg0lvolsqM-YZBnverxz6qr7jHcKL_cD3VjgBJjziaFKMQwwUAmFKK3hCkcqEIYmX1W-SkhbHOXFXiEruU-brBAUb/s640/P1050929.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 13</td></tr>
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As I came to the 13.1 mile marker, I really had to push to get my sub 2 hour split. I barely made it with a 1:59:31. Yikes! Ha!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiumY0IwmdiVkCf5g2z-RIcCihzk86cpcvhS1fV7EgSE4ARjTmXmblZP2rjfG32gLnzMZxn-Ugfe5KZMX5JFBc_0g_z-GJvfIfJYyRvUSXbszMsNhsWKHqznv624NaQmmL3ECNU2NsM6AS7/s1600/P1050932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiumY0IwmdiVkCf5g2z-RIcCihzk86cpcvhS1fV7EgSE4ARjTmXmblZP2rjfG32gLnzMZxn-Ugfe5KZMX5JFBc_0g_z-GJvfIfJYyRvUSXbszMsNhsWKHqznv624NaQmmL3ECNU2NsM6AS7/s640/P1050932.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Half marathon mark - are we done yet?</td></tr>
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It was all downhill from here but I could not keep up that pace.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaW6ctGj3CRsBhFTHpWnkMU3iytvuzBa0Xkve1f1Si4d6cJIHcxOD-mEFzKbPTVGY-aJHHm-o5daBe7xu30T99IZq3k-YhBQ1B9YvcsL6SoTFqFALKRxQ_GRF6hu8fU80tobVGxNn4yzq6/s1600/P1050937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaW6ctGj3CRsBhFTHpWnkMU3iytvuzBa0Xkve1f1Si4d6cJIHcxOD-mEFzKbPTVGY-aJHHm-o5daBe7xu30T99IZq3k-YhBQ1B9YvcsL6SoTFqFALKRxQ_GRF6hu8fU80tobVGxNn4yzq6/s640/P1050937.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cool statue!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinuioHLUtSGwyQ0EnD-KIkHYAcWRu1nolOWo0eg38g5nyqfiA7UVXh1JGxH29cbHqOhpjcZeDyvilm8scgfzqeLSjdBcX7X0647NlwXozud82ma_W23ETedUu92s2AT-eQbzfmFMX_sQLc/s1600/P1050963.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinuioHLUtSGwyQ0EnD-KIkHYAcWRu1nolOWo0eg38g5nyqfiA7UVXh1JGxH29cbHqOhpjcZeDyvilm8scgfzqeLSjdBcX7X0647NlwXozud82ma_W23ETedUu92s2AT-eQbzfmFMX_sQLc/s640/P1050963.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I can see downtown!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The support for aid stations was all the way long the course. I was impressed by the number of aid stations.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6zTE8oCD-rWD8DK1qofrm0EN6AxojmuZNe1QzdpjU1rs0-rEQIZERAH7GEx_Xxekb1yhXr-joaMZUQYSIZgHARzApOgwaaRnbdnWSL7wBw-yE4YBR-7i02P3NMNH8828YM7qNOET3Rh_5/s1600/P1050971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6zTE8oCD-rWD8DK1qofrm0EN6AxojmuZNe1QzdpjU1rs0-rEQIZERAH7GEx_Xxekb1yhXr-joaMZUQYSIZgHARzApOgwaaRnbdnWSL7wBw-yE4YBR-7i02P3NMNH8828YM7qNOET3Rh_5/s640/P1050971.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI3qzZTAQmkkM_0mhxJ7bbr4SHLsMDCaQ-U1-mS9lVSgUX8Jkf8f1gpzohHMJt0Kj79iD9EOkGo1dhBliFLx2K_2Ow4Tz6678YG4ysvYV56YsBjWY_CQ1s8eJaECf2OXjyOL1qVXf8kyvM/s1600/P1050979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI3qzZTAQmkkM_0mhxJ7bbr4SHLsMDCaQ-U1-mS9lVSgUX8Jkf8f1gpzohHMJt0Kj79iD9EOkGo1dhBliFLx2K_2Ow4Tz6678YG4ysvYV56YsBjWY_CQ1s8eJaECf2OXjyOL1qVXf8kyvM/s640/P1050979.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thankful to be almost done</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Soon we were nearing downtown and made a nice run by Grand Valley State University. It is a really nice campus. Looks like a great place to go to college.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOz_3bFf02sZ_p8L66mF8dxNVjzSb6rcYI4AsrbJn35a8goYeRC6TJzpF0gSS6cpJbQUL8JXNk1ZxyzO3dz869T_vPGmpwCQBxr5r8aIrw5NM0a6y-nUpMCL1nB2JGbIA0JbpsFpAUuY0I/s1600/P1050982.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOz_3bFf02sZ_p8L66mF8dxNVjzSb6rcYI4AsrbJn35a8goYeRC6TJzpF0gSS6cpJbQUL8JXNk1ZxyzO3dz869T_vPGmpwCQBxr5r8aIrw5NM0a6y-nUpMCL1nB2JGbIA0JbpsFpAUuY0I/s640/P1050982.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near Grand Valley</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidslVQ4Ib6b2_xY3_MZLewCX0C8mGKuVMCIB_jdl127tGl4J-den0ZzyfC_VOuX0mWxlQ2cVwsw28gLqT7QnYMuvwJrk5CW_bW28uLKoleTIR7blO2Z6pMoa6tb-gldKZSsZLsCak9wgxM/s1600/P1050993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidslVQ4Ib6b2_xY3_MZLewCX0C8mGKuVMCIB_jdl127tGl4J-den0ZzyfC_VOuX0mWxlQ2cVwsw28gLqT7QnYMuvwJrk5CW_bW28uLKoleTIR7blO2Z6pMoa6tb-gldKZSsZLsCak9wgxM/s640/P1050993.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice area in College</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJO6Y4pq1Nlnljpb6BidCpihAj-EuoQPiCFiwfY1WXjavdteeP_9_R4XhgYBBKzhyphenhyphenc32JrlIsknonErUOtIf-2KLUaE2T13srLEZHXmPyDb78hIDCCkZJnnmCJbyjLMfWI3F-HeA7WdRSj/s1600/P1060006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJO6Y4pq1Nlnljpb6BidCpihAj-EuoQPiCFiwfY1WXjavdteeP_9_R4XhgYBBKzhyphenhyphenc32JrlIsknonErUOtIf-2KLUaE2T13srLEZHXmPyDb78hIDCCkZJnnmCJbyjLMfWI3F-HeA7WdRSj/s640/P1060006.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 15</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As we were almost finishing, we crossed over the river and I was able to get a shot of the bridges near us with a couple tall buildings in the background.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxNeO5NEzQvbYgGpvCqVwsYhGwU2CeFs7sJTGLE-_CGDuOORytueo-yNJLkFIhePN1briwyHwHMdGdELjBt8GxizpJ3BoWfpKqrJyukao27uTNYUiQQasmo3SWaeaMybocL2GJBJMytoK0/s1600/P1060012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxNeO5NEzQvbYgGpvCqVwsYhGwU2CeFs7sJTGLE-_CGDuOORytueo-yNJLkFIhePN1briwyHwHMdGdELjBt8GxizpJ3BoWfpKqrJyukao27uTNYUiQQasmo3SWaeaMybocL2GJBJMytoK0/s640/P1060012.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bridge over water</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was ready to pull into Bagger Dave for food and a beer!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtdZiJASgPAh3Xw2h1KaU8mSHZXuYl1bL6hIy8vXr_o3MGiushaYLRy9yEv4skzhntKMWjx93Dq__UYtosmCkCyBM8K_ndQJmKFxUnG_-XY5OOyT5S4RZj0fdkSiQGcruzpJvHFekCm5gR/s1600/P1060018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtdZiJASgPAh3Xw2h1KaU8mSHZXuYl1bL6hIy8vXr_o3MGiushaYLRy9yEv4skzhntKMWjx93Dq__UYtosmCkCyBM8K_ndQJmKFxUnG_-XY5OOyT5S4RZj0fdkSiQGcruzpJvHFekCm5gR/s640/P1060018.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yum, burgers....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then..........then, it started to rain! At first it was just a few sprinkles.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKdXgx2yM13DpWttJIsXEbqVlhsJj7fTTvs59VXlqEw3YCuCTMQkXExrqB6MGKIdpdOipVpP1THJ36PtsrFrhyDMEUGUvf5JljVaZl84aUQI5zh9Y1-Aebn0Ty0K7aENKfC4Ij8hAu3_3F/s1600/P1060022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKdXgx2yM13DpWttJIsXEbqVlhsJj7fTTvs59VXlqEw3YCuCTMQkXExrqB6MGKIdpdOipVpP1THJ36PtsrFrhyDMEUGUvf5JljVaZl84aUQI5zh9Y1-Aebn0Ty0K7aENKfC4Ij8hAu3_3F/s640/P1060022.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And then it started</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then the sky just opened up. It seriously was blowing with huge wind gusts, pouring cold rain, and freezing rain! It was absolutely miserable but I was happy it only happened in the last five minutes of the race for me. Had it been an hour or all through the course, I would have been frozen the entire time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDihtZjzCzVgRjExN3eggMNC1S6JAla_2_FB_rNy2r79NZNWH9KHxz4lSWLESUBPFei3xePVlLQgEU9bbvARuNdc57qPzGBP5LTMmqACMHOWCfSSsB4UmMMQnM03jSwk9gcSsiUUVjTkaB/s1600/P1060025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDihtZjzCzVgRjExN3eggMNC1S6JAla_2_FB_rNy2r79NZNWH9KHxz4lSWLESUBPFei3xePVlLQgEU9bbvARuNdc57qPzGBP5LTMmqACMHOWCfSSsB4UmMMQnM03jSwk9gcSsiUUVjTkaB/s640/P1060025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDagg-FOkJ0f0Pwp_RJP8Q1kxdZQXM_HonpI2-BcDQlQCCN0kakeiHKT8aS02j5entXEMRDZUHFk5FiH3xbQezKQyS9U0uJiTaIrCsKiz8-02Ra0ONnDkhDGaG4iRPyPEESC0IWGpsG15B/s1600/P1060031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDagg-FOkJ0f0Pwp_RJP8Q1kxdZQXM_HonpI2-BcDQlQCCN0kakeiHKT8aS02j5entXEMRDZUHFk5FiH3xbQezKQyS9U0uJiTaIrCsKiz8-02Ra0ONnDkhDGaG4iRPyPEESC0IWGpsG15B/s640/P1060031.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Unfortunately, it rained all the way up to the end of the race. I was completely drenched and so cold that I forgot to take pictures of the finish area. I was able to grab a water, chocolate milk and bagel. Had I missed the rain, I would have stayed for my free beer by Perrin Brewing Company but I couldn't stand being out there and just went to get my gear and get changed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMSk-Nm5S3Z2n-hBCFqNFNdPpv_mhr0e2DlHQO2LIJb5URxQX2YBKjq2xx1in0QO3rkQah4pL7zINKTWeuzuomx3pKxVqnG_fH-95_emUf51E0m181FHltX5tGQA1o6SEm2Lph3uBEyAgj/s1600/P1060036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMSk-Nm5S3Z2n-hBCFqNFNdPpv_mhr0e2DlHQO2LIJb5URxQX2YBKjq2xx1in0QO3rkQah4pL7zINKTWeuzuomx3pKxVqnG_fH-95_emUf51E0m181FHltX5tGQA1o6SEm2Lph3uBEyAgj/s640/P1060036.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish line</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Aid Stations</u></b><br />
The aid stations were plentiful and awesome. As mentioned, they were well stocked with water and gatorade. There was no chance you would have been dehydrated. They also had ice in a few of the locations too. I'm sure given the cooler weather, they didn't go through as much as what they planned for.<br />
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<b><u>Finish area</u></b><br />
The finish also had barriers to help with crowd control. Volunteers were giving out water, then medals, then there was a food line. The beer tent was also very close to the finish area as well as the DeVos Place to get your gear.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcf7G2yjNc3EWPhqF1vYPMeNBbGWc446-XaU1-NoJGdO5sroYpygmpFaUj6L_AocXuntEx1RKW77AC2uqWs_OVB_Iyk5LDOVzNP4lloCYKlHJ_hABKxeV1jQsFq486FU3an7wMtIn66hz/s1600/P1060041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcf7G2yjNc3EWPhqF1vYPMeNBbGWc446-XaU1-NoJGdO5sroYpygmpFaUj6L_AocXuntEx1RKW77AC2uqWs_OVB_Iyk5LDOVzNP4lloCYKlHJ_hABKxeV1jQsFq486FU3an7wMtIn66hz/s640/P1060041.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Amenities</u></b><br />
For my race entry, (I paid about $89 which included, an additional shirt, since I donated at least $30 extra dollars to charity), I received two shirts, a cotton and tech shirt, a custom race bib, a race medal, a fully supported measured course. The bibs had QR codes so you could get immediate results on your phone.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9uYIgere_O91LAGdcGMrxK_jb4OiITwV1eVG2yIUoBIZ0Wbkx6mkJuAZVdXoRFTB-F1RHc579FvyemnBIt9EKntCnRIueddCcuU2PcCtpTDXYlUXydES3M8atqqj9aDatSMfT8cJLhZEu/s1600/DSC_0034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="598" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9uYIgere_O91LAGdcGMrxK_jb4OiITwV1eVG2yIUoBIZ0Wbkx6mkJuAZVdXoRFTB-F1RHc579FvyemnBIt9EKntCnRIueddCcuU2PcCtpTDXYlUXydES3M8atqqj9aDatSMfT8cJLhZEu/s640/DSC_0034.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bib with QR code</td></tr>
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The entry also included a free post race beer by Perrin Brewing Company. Nice!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5qGDK_m3KeA6Llpa95qPcc5YsykcRwDJBwxSqkGYysbxPt4dSz5o25_HP1iN3irDCSWKmM16VPkjXcxX0D1btvpy4OcCU479cxG9jtbuT2TX794WEz0gscsvh-q5yldeHBGYdXi46ijKN/s1600/DSC_0038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5qGDK_m3KeA6Llpa95qPcc5YsykcRwDJBwxSqkGYysbxPt4dSz5o25_HP1iN3irDCSWKmM16VPkjXcxX0D1btvpy4OcCU479cxG9jtbuT2TX794WEz0gscsvh-q5yldeHBGYdXi46ijKN/s640/DSC_0038.JPG" width="540" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Craft beer with entry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I actually like the tech shirt. It's a nice grey color, fits well, and is made by Saucony. I will definitely be using this for training this summer. This is the shirt I paid extra with as the entry included a cotton shirt.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn3iREtHZYDfqqsa3Jn90C_XH1SZGGceEB90YWjwFhxZFtkXZXPXiJ5j0xxSFgBSjLqjS_zOzrJewH0PcIlCclMmbdiUxPeS7byhKXmXM5uCrNiuwVE5b1QJ3j_4Ryb4wkyIfWftVaQ9XB/s1600/DSC_0029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn3iREtHZYDfqqsa3Jn90C_XH1SZGGceEB90YWjwFhxZFtkXZXPXiJ5j0xxSFgBSjLqjS_zOzrJewH0PcIlCclMmbdiUxPeS7byhKXmXM5uCrNiuwVE5b1QJ3j_4Ryb4wkyIfWftVaQ9XB/s640/DSC_0029.jpg" width="558" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tech shirt - not included with entry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4RnMMg7BchfzhMeHkQzAn_Wt18GoGXBXdMObEbYPOOUrYf4cdWE4Dc7bDYZMXmtxc1hCdkQd-lr23_5-zzYWv2nh91U1TJBRUiCimE_YBWOp0Lz2tL-tM9uYa4Km_OdZuJIH9c_TCOWep/s1600/DSC_0030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4RnMMg7BchfzhMeHkQzAn_Wt18GoGXBXdMObEbYPOOUrYf4cdWE4Dc7bDYZMXmtxc1hCdkQd-lr23_5-zzYWv2nh91U1TJBRUiCimE_YBWOp0Lz2tL-tM9uYa4Km_OdZuJIH9c_TCOWep/s640/DSC_0030.jpg" width="506" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back of tech shirt</td></tr>
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I also like the cotton shirt since it's nice to have another shirt to wear day to day. I only wish I could have chosen a large since it shrunk and is a bit tight. Unfortunately, you had to choose the same size for the tech and cotton shirt. Not sure why.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2GOGsBa8Atio3-8Xdh3ZY5p7864lgUUTVJ6WO44gbk5_y3bN_LR_ltZZqx0hFRBt-EDs7WuejYaBFE5JrbiUmucD7rE1MSqcA8_XXZJuBds0T51osQ-hYNl0d0ScUciZ5NsNQ9oizPFCs/s1600/DSC_0031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2GOGsBa8Atio3-8Xdh3ZY5p7864lgUUTVJ6WO44gbk5_y3bN_LR_ltZZqx0hFRBt-EDs7WuejYaBFE5JrbiUmucD7rE1MSqcA8_XXZJuBds0T51osQ-hYNl0d0ScUciZ5NsNQ9oizPFCs/s640/DSC_0031.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cotton shirt - front</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEignQZevBMLe5FPh3LdfJwMO9mxkYGp3aKvxtvDM7wDe5ukXdzStl4FyviK2yDfn8kifSObTtFBgH68jJ8gnIimHOiFim4FCnUccx_OsN9oWSPOC_4kVNH__xasbJGgENjAv0jM1qPYtiX-/s1600/DSC_0032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEignQZevBMLe5FPh3LdfJwMO9mxkYGp3aKvxtvDM7wDe5ukXdzStl4FyviK2yDfn8kifSObTtFBgH68jJ8gnIimHOiFim4FCnUccx_OsN9oWSPOC_4kVNH__xasbJGgENjAv0jM1qPYtiX-/s640/DSC_0032.jpg" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cotton shirt - back</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then there was the medal. Sorry to say, my opinion is that I didn't like the medal. Sure it has a nice custom ribbon and the medal size was good too, however, it has Fifth Third Bank all over it. Now, I'm not opposed to sponsors putting their name on the medal since they do pay for it but it's twice on the actual medal and twice on the ribbon - overdone. Okay then....., by the way, I didn't run the race for the medal, but previous years medals with just the stick figure would have been better to me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4zx0oIhsns8vjRFcmXtMDQOifcBqwGh6lO1-pUdnJBJRMN2KE7hTIxXoksH7XiAncdDOFXF6S0E6CucKSLVCDoxcoxomVWvLzCLgkiUJSte_lZk37MWatAbaQHsh-mzqH1TDyBcte_N6I/s1600/DSC_0037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4zx0oIhsns8vjRFcmXtMDQOifcBqwGh6lO1-pUdnJBJRMN2KE7hTIxXoksH7XiAncdDOFXF6S0E6CucKSLVCDoxcoxomVWvLzCLgkiUJSte_lZk37MWatAbaQHsh-mzqH1TDyBcte_N6I/s640/DSC_0037.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race medal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Z1b3kofJMd8fZmVPHTK6ry_of4A3Tpx3ZCdDqdYLrK0Um4LhLUM478x6csxJ_3znrY1DmmcmtLiOO7X5LfPv6m63e_1BlOhoq94GP8zLwV7ORRPaGHOAUcghj6yLYr9CMPLsZkQQ27js/s1600/DSC_0036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="638" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Z1b3kofJMd8fZmVPHTK6ry_of4A3Tpx3ZCdDqdYLrK0Um4LhLUM478x6csxJ_3znrY1DmmcmtLiOO7X5LfPv6m63e_1BlOhoq94GP8zLwV7ORRPaGHOAUcghj6yLYr9CMPLsZkQQ27js/s640/DSC_0036.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medal close up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Organization</u></b><br />
The organization of the race was excellent. The website was well planned and answered all questions. The start area was well planned. The expo was easy to get into and around. The finish line was also well planned. The post race party, while I didn't stay, was close and easy to find. Everything was downtown and would have been very easy to just stay at a hotel there.<br />
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<u><b>Overall</b></u><br />
Overall, I felt this was a really nice, fun race. I really enjoyed the course. I think it's the perfect race to enjoy for a weekend getaway. While I like the campground at Yankee Springs, I would definitely recommend just staying at a hotel downtown, enjoying the down, and stay the entire weekend to enjoy the entire day on Saturday there. It's the largest 25k in the Country so it's one that should be on your bucket list. I'm glad I was finally able to run it.<br />
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Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikzXkLdnobEJUek4zsnBnmTnAzsXNVDPnZYkIVSPzJxS5ZhWXhdy6QtbImbXWhxO3ecs9yURMhk_NQTUzEsq1UcalS2cfAbr6ZpFfyDeWNbIAUFuI144Ox-ZKsE99weJX_sDJj0wdmBg65/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikzXkLdnobEJUek4zsnBnmTnAzsXNVDPnZYkIVSPzJxS5ZhWXhdy6QtbImbXWhxO3ecs9yURMhk_NQTUzEsq1UcalS2cfAbr6ZpFfyDeWNbIAUFuI144Ox-ZKsE99weJX_sDJj0wdmBg65/s1600/signature.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: This race was paid for with my own funds. All opinions are my own.</span>Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-70117405716863173662016-05-08T14:47:00.000-04:002016-05-08T14:47:21.503-04:00Skins A400 Power Shorts reviewA couple months ago I received a pair of Skins A400 Power shorts for review courtesy of <b><u><a href="https://www.skins.net/usa/">Skins</a></u></b>. I've been wearing them as much as I can on my runs to give you an accurate review of the shorts.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaTkfRweDMrtrkoM0ZSKmWzO1U4JIyc_msTcx6gmSlHKqmv-H9nNIJhsrJ25iaZC_921xUck_6ix_8PHZ95m0lX-ikig3dW-lTwNLNzRqNFOEgqGk3Edm1rQS9dkvIDHJQzUX3zFFa0IgR/s1600/DSC_0023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="526" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaTkfRweDMrtrkoM0ZSKmWzO1U4JIyc_msTcx6gmSlHKqmv-H9nNIJhsrJ25iaZC_921xUck_6ix_8PHZ95m0lX-ikig3dW-lTwNLNzRqNFOEgqGk3Edm1rQS9dkvIDHJQzUX3zFFa0IgR/s640/DSC_0023.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiguDbnwGLw1-nRThAn37FMu2OFCIH9RC9uEgrLvUUL9mA2WuEze1j3-u6pi518PjfgBEhXOnHcZrzrH9CMEOOgM1pvoWclmIXrozboyRCFRf54-X2WkSnHuKgYEGL8XsmyOugRsrQ77Mb9/s1600/DSC_0024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiguDbnwGLw1-nRThAn37FMu2OFCIH9RC9uEgrLvUUL9mA2WuEze1j3-u6pi518PjfgBEhXOnHcZrzrH9CMEOOgM1pvoWclmIXrozboyRCFRf54-X2WkSnHuKgYEGL8XsmyOugRsrQ77Mb9/s640/DSC_0024.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Over the last several years, I've used compression shorts for additional support on all my runs. I can't remember the last time I didn't wear compression shorts. For me, they really help my whole body feel better while running and I also believe they help me reduce the possibility for injury as they provide the additional support in my lower back, glutes, quads and hamstrings.<br />
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I look for several things when determining what to look for in a pair of compression shorts including quality, compression, fit and price.<br />
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<b><u>Compression</u></b> - When it comes to compression, different companies make different kinds of compression. I've found that companies do one of three things. The compression material is really loose so that it does not really give any benefit to wearing them. I don't need to wear shorts that are just tight. The compression material is really tight. I have a pair that are so tight it almost cuts off my circulation! I'm guessing you know I don't wear those much. Then there are companies that make the compression tight enough to be of benefit while running but still be comfortable. Skins fall into that last category. The compression material is really nice and you can feel the benefits.<br />
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<b><u>Quality</u></b> - The skins A400 shorts are made really well. I would guess that the material will last many, many years as most do with good quality. The stitching is also really well made as you can see below. I don't mind paying more for such quality since they will last a very long time. The material is made with a Memory MX fabric to help maximize explosive power. They also help regulate your temperature and help with moisture management. I always felt dry while running in them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijdoYHpnk9_xNV-HScazdTpBnBCe8CHvO_xqMwtSU-2QbteZoHczt5BAPd6qNmA2qHiQ7viER2zYAKSAF62Avv8DUn3li7jtHRg9-13vpUDv7G3Ksb4RujfL9tNhD5k0l9-2aRVW1NW7lJ/s1600/DSC_0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijdoYHpnk9_xNV-HScazdTpBnBCe8CHvO_xqMwtSU-2QbteZoHczt5BAPd6qNmA2qHiQ7viER2zYAKSAF62Avv8DUn3li7jtHRg9-13vpUDv7G3Ksb4RujfL9tNhD5k0l9-2aRVW1NW7lJ/s640/DSC_0026.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice stitching</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Fit</u></b> - For me personally, this is where the Skins shorts fell, well.......short. While they are comfortable to wear, I feel like there is not enough material on the back. Consequently, it always felt like I didn't have the shorts on all the way. It feels like the material went up to the bottom of my back and just stopped. Even as I ran in them, I could still feel like they were inching down on me. You can see on the the second picture above, the material is straight so, frankly, there was not enough room for my butt. I don't think I have that big of a butt. Maybe I should have chose the next size up, however, I did follow the diagram for what size to wear and I was not in between sizes so I went with a small.<br />
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<b><u>Price</u></b> - When it comes to running stuff including clothes, I don't mind spending more for good, quality products. I have some clothes still from when I first started running so it pays to get a quality product in terms of running apparel. These shorts retail for $119.99. Now, honestly, I've really struggled with the price point of compression shorts for not only this brand but many others. While I want quality, I would have a hard time paying this much for a pair of shorts. There are a ton of options for compression shorts and you just need to find the one that fits you perfectly. If they happen to be $119.99, so be it.<br />
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Given how they fit, if you were to purchase a pair, I would definitely recommend trying them and making sure they are the perfect fit for you. For me, they just didn't feel right. <br />
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I believe there are many advantages to wearing compression shorts and they are a useful tool especially when running long distances.<br />
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Interested in learning more?<br />
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Check out the <b><u><a href="https://www.skins.net/usa/">Skins Website</a></u></b>.<br />
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Follow their <b><u><a href="https://www.facebook.com/skinsna">Facebook page</a></u></b>.<br />
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Follow their <b><u><a href="https://twitter.com/skins_usa">Twitter page</a></u></b>.<br />
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Follow their <b><u><a href="https://www.instagram.com/skins_usa/">Instagram page</a></u></b>.<br />
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Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikzXkLdnobEJUek4zsnBnmTnAzsXNVDPnZYkIVSPzJxS5ZhWXhdy6QtbImbXWhxO3ecs9yURMhk_NQTUzEsq1UcalS2cfAbr6ZpFfyDeWNbIAUFuI144Ox-ZKsE99weJX_sDJj0wdmBg65/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikzXkLdnobEJUek4zsnBnmTnAzsXNVDPnZYkIVSPzJxS5ZhWXhdy6QtbImbXWhxO3ecs9yURMhk_NQTUzEsq1UcalS2cfAbr6ZpFfyDeWNbIAUFuI144Ox-ZKsE99weJX_sDJj0wdmBg65/s1600/signature.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I received a complimentary pair of A400 Skins shorts in exchange for this review. All opinions are my own and I was not required to give a particular opinion other than an honest one.</span><br />
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<br />Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-5413272135975187352016-04-24T13:32:00.002-04:002016-04-24T13:32:20.440-04:00GU Energy Labs nutrition review<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrMPhOUpRDdgqQ-2Lkg6EG_rM4EKymkQ0mrLuAg7CPEgAlnVNhYn8DzwpNWz0aY9ViAMx8QBKH29q8cl_vsYofJird63XaR_PxB4yGaiwY4OdYIIGRSgDJgzpO5e5T6S6dSw5INtvisSq/s1600/DSC_0019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrMPhOUpRDdgqQ-2Lkg6EG_rM4EKymkQ0mrLuAg7CPEgAlnVNhYn8DzwpNWz0aY9ViAMx8QBKH29q8cl_vsYofJird63XaR_PxB4yGaiwY4OdYIIGRSgDJgzpO5e5T6S6dSw5INtvisSq/s640/DSC_0019.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of GU choices!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A month or so ago I received some GU for review courtesy of <b><u><a href="https://guenergy.com/">GU Energy Labs</a></u></b>. As I've continued to run long distances, I've tried numerous things to help give me the energy to finish long distances in both training and races.<br />
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To be fair, while I've run 7 marathons and a 50k, I still don't feel I've dialed down my nutrition needs for training for races. I've tried gels, chews, energy drink tabs, candy, regular foods, etc. I will also say that I'm not a huge fan of gels in general, however, I know they serve their purpose and they have helped me finish races feeling much better than any other option. They give you the energy you need to keep moving.<br />
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Some people cannot stomach gels and must have other choices. I've done pretty well with gels and chews overall. My experience with gels has been to take 3 of these during a marathon and I also switch to chews when my stomach might not be feeling well. This has nothing to do with GU in general but just that after I get past running 20 miles, my stomach does not accept much more. The chews taste more like candy to me so I can stomach them better while running. I also tend to use one gel during a half marathon race, although when training for that distance, I don't typically use much nutrition during training (a mistake on my part)<br />
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Out of all the gels I've ever tried, GU has the most choices I've ever seen in the market. I can't believe the number of flavors they come up with and it's fun trying new flavors. Personally, I'm not a huge fan of really fruity flavors. For me they don't sit as well in my stomach. I tend to go for flavors like Peanut Butter, Peanut Butter and Chocolate, and Expresso. I also really like their Salted Caramel flavor and I like using this one especially when it's really cold out. It tastes more like Caramel when it's harder like real Caramel.<br />
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On my last run, I tried Maple Bacon. One thing I will say is that while GU does a great job trying to match the flavor to the real thing, you need to be realistic in your expectations. Maple Bacon GU is not the same as eating real bacon dripped in maple syrup. Haha, if only! It does, however, give you the taste of it and it really helps if it's a flavor you like.<br />
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GU also have many different types of energy gel such as their Roctane that gives you more electrolytes in the gel. GU Energy's drink tabs are also great for hydration and have a great flavor to them. I like these for after a long training run or race to help me recover too.<br />
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Overall, whatever you choose to use while running, nutrition needs to be a big part of your training especially as you train for a marathon distance or longer. Give some flavors a try and don't give up if you try something you don't like initially. With all the flavors available, you are sure to find a couple that you like and will help you as you run long distance.<br />
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Interested in learning more?<br />
<br />
Go to the <b><u><a href="https://guenergy.com/">GU Energy Labs website</a></u></b>.<br />
<br />
Follow <b><u><a href="https://www.facebook.com/GUEnergyLabs">GU Energy Labs on Facebook</a></u></b>.<br />
<br />
Follow <b><u><a href="https://twitter.com/guenergylabs">GU Energy Labs on Twitter</a></u></b>.<br />
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Follow <b><u><a href="https://www.instagram.com/guenergylabs/">GU Energy Labs on Instagram</a></u></b>.<br />
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I want to thank GU Energy Labs for sending me the samples to test out for this review.<br />
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Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikzXkLdnobEJUek4zsnBnmTnAzsXNVDPnZYkIVSPzJxS5ZhWXhdy6QtbImbXWhxO3ecs9yURMhk_NQTUzEsq1UcalS2cfAbr6ZpFfyDeWNbIAUFuI144Ox-ZKsE99weJX_sDJj0wdmBg65/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikzXkLdnobEJUek4zsnBnmTnAzsXNVDPnZYkIVSPzJxS5ZhWXhdy6QtbImbXWhxO3ecs9yURMhk_NQTUzEsq1UcalS2cfAbr6ZpFfyDeWNbIAUFuI144Ox-ZKsE99weJX_sDJj0wdmBg65/s1600/signature.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I received the GU samples in the picture above for review. All opinions are my own and I was not required to give a particular opinion other than an honest one.</span>Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-7639500767390723472016-04-12T20:26:00.001-04:002016-04-12T20:26:46.045-04:00Buff and Half Buff review<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq3OAedDtdBhPnAnQ6tvFB3-jt7drdzasHkpdgDb1vRM3Dze0qZS2lrXPc0zOrdKBcOhtml-3GStC4nDWLFtWuvAoQ8fCTXvMoDNt5ntJHaB97X0USuTorWNPOVCqHulYAAC6rqZbx0e3q/s1600/DSC_0013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="548" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq3OAedDtdBhPnAnQ6tvFB3-jt7drdzasHkpdgDb1vRM3Dze0qZS2lrXPc0zOrdKBcOhtml-3GStC4nDWLFtWuvAoQ8fCTXvMoDNt5ntJHaB97X0USuTorWNPOVCqHulYAAC6rqZbx0e3q/s640/DSC_0013.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buff and Half Buff</td></tr>
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<b><u><a href="http://buffusa.com/">Buff</a></u></b> recently sent me a few of their products to review. I was really excited about this review since I've used a Buff and love the product!<br />
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While there are many kinds of running accessories on the market today, there are few that I can think of that I truly need and use on a daily basis. If I were to keep one product in my running arsenal outside of my running shoes, this would be it! I've been using a Buff product for the last several years and it's one of my most used products ever. I use them on almost every run!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJJR667G3knP13B_kTnEpdkGfeqJUtLitncTA8mZ0HmfJ1Sg1-twZXx3B4Tn930Pk9we0DXGMsYflpOWbq30BQPeROpvTN2bQTwsUkntmwDMDfLsMQA1jMEbm8b-h4x_KKCk3eGcvGnaU1/s1600/DSC_0030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="542" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJJR667G3knP13B_kTnEpdkGfeqJUtLitncTA8mZ0HmfJ1Sg1-twZXx3B4Tn930Pk9we0DXGMsYflpOWbq30BQPeROpvTN2bQTwsUkntmwDMDfLsMQA1jMEbm8b-h4x_KKCk3eGcvGnaU1/s640/DSC_0030.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Buff collection</td></tr>
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I was especially excited to try out their UV Half Buff as its the first time I've ever run in this.<br />
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For those of you that don't know about Buff, it's a versatile headwear product. Check out the number of ways you can wear the buff:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtbs4TL7OBe7qjmNC05z3JTywN7M6XlpcOcFwRVVIrvG-N2Z41SpTV1ooZRr964zz27zlCzkzodU9zoycyorfskYlJa0NGu01mNY2nc7qe4UdGRfuTC5xdKNFAUgxLj47hKlGbj0N3BNlO/s1600/buff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtbs4TL7OBe7qjmNC05z3JTywN7M6XlpcOcFwRVVIrvG-N2Z41SpTV1ooZRr964zz27zlCzkzodU9zoycyorfskYlJa0NGu01mNY2nc7qe4UdGRfuTC5xdKNFAUgxLj47hKlGbj0N3BNlO/s640/buff.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Borrowed from <b><u><a href="http://buffusa.com/">Buff website</a></u></b></td></tr>
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Personally, I use mine mostly as a Neckerchief (all year), a Face Mask and a Balaclava (Winter), a Cap and a Do Rag (all year). The Buff is great for really hot weather in helping keep the sweat off your neck. It's also one of the best products to use during cold, Winter months. I couldn't imagine surviving the Michigan Winters without one of these. Using this as a face mask/balaclava is a life saver. Here are just a few of the pictures of me using my Buff.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1DNb3J0UYYCdxJXdiG437daajmFn6uBT8nbEGbk1rhElMsE1L_mqYWuXRM0mRBFn2hnmMM79HEJTAKObixkTP4jcspdN9P432RR1As4BA4WnJlDLjQvA6KB_wqqMeV1EWCOthyphenhyphen0DKOZI/s1600/buff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1DNb3J0UYYCdxJXdiG437daajmFn6uBT8nbEGbk1rhElMsE1L_mqYWuXRM0mRBFn2hnmMM79HEJTAKObixkTP4jcspdN9P432RR1As4BA4WnJlDLjQvA6KB_wqqMeV1EWCOthyphenhyphen0DKOZI/s640/buff.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good use of my Buff - apparently I like the Neckerchief best</td></tr>
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While the material is generally thin (at least on the original buff), when wearing the Buff, the heat from your breath keeps you nice and warm. It becomes especially useful when temperatures go below 10 degrees where you really need face protection. Also, I've talked to many people that don't like having something over their mouth when they run like a thick Balaclava. I don't like that either, however, the thinness of the product makes it easy to run while still protecting you. It's actually the only product I've found to cover your mouth/nose and yet still allow you to breath well when running.<br />
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Now, the half buff is really new to me but I can already see the advantages to this after using it a few times. For one, it's nice not to have so much material when its really hot out. Anything over 40 degrees seems to work great for this. Using half the amount of material is perfect in that it still wicks sweat away from you without feeling like you have too much material. I've never felt the full buff was too much in the summer, however, I can see people enjoying the half Buff option more in summer ---- including myself!<br />
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Of course, because there is less material, there are less choices of how to wear it. The Buff website only shows two options including a hairband and a headband. I actually don't use it that way for either and use it as a neckerchief and also as a cap.<br />
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Overall, the Buff is really comfortable to wear and I love all the color options. They have an incredible amount of types and you are sure to find one to fit your style.<br />
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Interested in learning more or getting one for yourself?<br />
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Check out the <b><u><a href="http://buffusa.com/">Buff website</a></u></b><br />
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Follow <b><u><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Buff.Inc">Buff on Facebook</a></u></b><br />
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Follow <b><u><a href="https://twitter.com/buff_usa">Buff on Twitter</a></u></b><br />
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Follow <b><u><a href="https://www.instagram.com/buff_usa/">Buff on Instagram</a></u></b><br />
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Once you use one, you'll want to run with it all the time.<br />
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Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I received a Buff and Buff half in exchange for this review. All opinions are my own and I was not required to give a particular opinion except an honest one.</span><br />
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<br />Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1592755595247951740.post-61116677561100268582016-04-09T13:55:00.003-04:002016-04-09T13:55:52.583-04:00Injinji toesocks reviewAbout a month ago I received several pairs of <b><u><a href="http://www.injinji.com/">Injinji</a></u></b> toesocks for review courtesy of Injinji. For a little background, I've run in Injinji socks since 2012 when I first did a review on these unusual looking socks.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBbvk_V14ax5tRGsbNyU2DZzANCes_Ivaq-YEQbN1YRd5Y3TEPO3ixLFYFIo4EWxwFcKEHzpc-FVUY9E8RYxe0j-KiWCyGTGUAZKEWdKIPkUmKtQRmLXq4eefXqLmKaatLp2SOkAEi8eaL/s1600/DSC_0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBbvk_V14ax5tRGsbNyU2DZzANCes_Ivaq-YEQbN1YRd5Y3TEPO3ixLFYFIo4EWxwFcKEHzpc-FVUY9E8RYxe0j-KiWCyGTGUAZKEWdKIPkUmKtQRmLXq4eefXqLmKaatLp2SOkAEi8eaL/s640/DSC_0011.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Injinji socks</td></tr>
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Recently, Injinji has come out with numerous options for their socks. They offer various lengths of socks such as no-show, micro, mini-crew, etc. They also offer various weights such as lightweight, original weight and mid-weight. They offer so many options currently that it's hard to list them all so here is a <b><u><a href="http://www.injinji.com/findyourinjinji">chart</a></u></b> that is helpful.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikqhQdvYNg8HMLmfVrTstwepCEQ5WgaUYjnLw5LuxLvDi-d3ooGVDu0zWUmX4wV8dFgPaNmT5RnWaONuVqLjUZCEDdNPoSmI6KKUhz6rsVi0Cqlx0UxL82I_WUNtFwZMXoB5ogFFyDqO_o/s1600/DSC_0029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikqhQdvYNg8HMLmfVrTstwepCEQ5WgaUYjnLw5LuxLvDi-d3ooGVDu0zWUmX4wV8dFgPaNmT5RnWaONuVqLjUZCEDdNPoSmI6KKUhz6rsVi0Cqlx0UxL82I_WUNtFwZMXoB5ogFFyDqO_o/s640/DSC_0029.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No show length in lightweight </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7yFoqD-ogirU_waK9yQ48g7wi2hEDQYr9NCpczSZcydbXn9EFVggsrtTO79RHYSbPsm9qX_uMCtia0UENJ5Mga8uwSAFB2O2rXEujnlAjPTi62yHxWHb4jVnj95cOH39iQoYYHqEahmxg/s1600/DSC_0030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7yFoqD-ogirU_waK9yQ48g7wi2hEDQYr9NCpczSZcydbXn9EFVggsrtTO79RHYSbPsm9qX_uMCtia0UENJ5Mga8uwSAFB2O2rXEujnlAjPTi62yHxWHb4jVnj95cOH39iQoYYHqEahmxg/s640/DSC_0030.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mini-crew length in midweight</td></tr>
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My personal preference is the lightweight socks and mini-crew length. I have a pair of their trail socks too (not shown) that has a double cuff to help keep dirt out that are really nice! I also wear these from about 20 degrees and up. For me personally, my feel get cold easily and having these on in colder weather, feels like wearing gloves versus mittens so I have a difficult time keeping my toes warm. I do see that they now offer specific types of socks for colder weather though which could be a good option.<br />
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If you are into colors, Injinji sure has you covered now! When I first started wearing them, they only offered a few choices but you can see above from what they sent that they offer plenty now - and that is only a few of their options! It's hard to mix up socks anymore since they all are unique colors.<br />
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The sock itself is made quite well. I don't know how they do it but these also have no seams which is incredible considering they keep your toes separated. Obviously, separating your toes is the biggest advantage to wearing these. With no skin to rub together, the risk of blisters is minimal. In fact, I've never developed a blister on my toes while wearing their socks over the years and I've run as long as a marathon in them.<br />
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The socks do take a little getting used to wearing. When you first try them on, it feels strange having your toes separated and walking around without shoes you can notice it. However, once you put on your running shoes is where these really shine. First of all, when you run in them, they feel like any other sock in that you can't feel the separation of your toes. To me that is important because when I wear socks, I don't want to be thinking about how they feel. They are quite comfortable. Also, for distance runners, they can take the abuse to the constant friction to help protect your feet. I've even worn them to work on occasion too.<br />
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Also, contrary to popular believe, you don't need to run in Vibram fivefingers shoes either. In fact, I've never run in those shoes and just use my normal running shoes - trail or road.<br />
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I'm a big believer that the right pair of socks can make all the difference in a good run or a bad run. Injinji is a great choice and something to consider next time you are looking for a new option for running socks.<br />
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Their socks typically retail from $12 to $17. Very reasonably priced and they last for many miles.<br />
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Interested in learning more or want to purchase a pair? I'm sure you'll find an option you like.<br />
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Go to the <b><u><a href="http://www.injinji.com/">Injinji</a></u></b> website<br />
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Follow <b><u><a href="https://www.facebook.com/injinjitoesocks">Injinji</a></u></b> on Facebook<br />
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Follow <b><u><a href="https://twitter.com/injinji">Injinji</a></u></b> on Twitter<br />
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Follow <b><u><a href="https://www.instagram.com/injinji/">Injinji</a></u></b> on Instagram<br />
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Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I received the above Injinji socks in exchange for this review. All opinions are my own and I was not required to give a particular opinion other than an honest one.</span><br />
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<br />Detroit Runner(Jeff)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11685917189914214877noreply@blogger.com1