A beast of a run today. I was still feeling kind of sick so I knew this would be a tough run. Also, I had a meet later in Salt Lake and a family day at Snow Bird. I got up at five and drove to the Highland classic church. I started at about 5:30. The weather was nice and I was fine wearing a short sleeve shirt, but it was very dark. I ran into Alpine to the park and then up to the four way stop and headed West toward Highland blvd. This part of the run is very hilly with a lot of rollers. When I hit Highland blvd the hard part started! It is a 4.5 mile, 1,400 foot climb to the top of Sun Crest (top of point of the mountain between Draper and AF). The run seemed long and was very tough, but beautiful at the same time. As you climb and crest the mountain you get an awesome view of both Utah valley and Salt Lake valley. I got to the outlook parking lot where I stashed my drink just as it was getting light. The way back was fast because of the 8% grade on parts of the road. I was hitting 6:00s with no problem at all. The last part was on the rollers back but I was still able to stay in the mid 6:00s because of my momentum from the steep downhill. I finished with a 6:13 mile even with a very tired and hammered body so I was happy about that. I also beat the rain by about two minutes so I didn't end up getting soaked. 2:21:00 for the run. That run was a beast and it seemed like it was taking forever at times, but it is one of the best workouts I have ever done. Very painful! I wish I would have been doing it for a couple of months. I am glad to get done with my last long run it always feels good. Now I just need to get healthy and stay healthy for at least two more weeks. I might try an few more downhill runs to get ready for St. George because I know I am weak in that area. I was sore and very tired the rest of the day, but it all turned out good. I think my cold has peaked as well, so I hope to start feeling better from that soon. Good day! (Omni- 44.5 miles)
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