AM - 2nd Annual Steven Abraham Lincoln Hooper Memorial 17.35 Mile Fun Run -
Things really went well this year. The race directors had pretty much everything right on the ball: the distance was dead on, the awards were spectacular, the hydration more plentiful, the minor adjustment in start time made a huge difference, and the oraganizers were able to arrange the temps to stay down just enough to the finish to make it enjoyable, and of course, the course is one of the most scenic and spectacular pieces of trailrunning in the western United States. There were a few flaws as always: in a Twilight Zone like moment, we traveled up into Enterprise twice while only leaving it once, Logan yelling out the window at rabbits to move and Bill sleeping at the wheel also added some intrigue.
Despite all this, the field was smaller than last year. The WildBull's goal was to finish in one piece, Logan's goal was to avoid getting eaten by a mountain lion, and my goal, of course, was to crush the field like always and destroy any hope they may have had of taking home the crown. The run moved uneventfully UP mountain passes, by amazing views, and near dead decaying cows until at mile 13 the Bull made a bold move to the lead. Logan and I kept relaxed and pulled him in within the mile. At this point, the race became an eery predecesour to the famous hotdog eating contest to follow later in the day. The great Loganashy broke away and took a slim lead as we neared the final mile. He would not be beat, he must gain the crown abdicated by Clyde "Superfly" Behunin. Davey Holt stayed steady behind the intimidating Santa Claran and in the final 1/4 mile pulled a sneak attack to end dead even at the finish. A monumental moment in the history of this race; a tie! As Billy finished, we slid into our prize - 15 minutes soaking in the freezing tributary stream of the Santa Clara River. (Landreth 288.65)
As the only 2 time finisher of this classic race, I am awarding myself with the Thomas Jefferson Lifetime Achievement Award for Dedication and Commitment to and the Love of Distance Running. It is a very special award that I will hold very dear to my heart.
afternoon - 5.25 Parkway. Had a very short turn around as it was getting hot quick and I wanted a good nap, so I went out and hit a quick 5er to round out the day. (Cumulus silver 538.15) | 