It was a chilly start, but the temps warmed up as trail ascended . With relatively easy footing, i was able to push ahead at the start and position myself well before the climb. After 2 or 3 miles the climb to Mt Toby began. It was steep but not unbearable. I moved into a fast hike only once as pitch of the trail got real steep and my heart rate pushed 190 beats per minute. Being a strong hill runner, I was able pass several runners on the way up but I knew there would be a good chance i would see them again on the descent.
The turn around point is the summit, touch the gate of the water tower , throw down a gu, and go! I usually don't like out and backs but i enjoyed seeing other runners coming up the hill and exchanging cheers of 'nice job' and ' your almost there'. The descent was fast. I let me legs pick up some acceleration and let gravity do its thing as the angle of fireroad descended steeper. I felt like a deer, galloping over rocks, picking the best lines, and feeling the cool air against my face. Sure enough though 2 runners that i passed on the uphill flew right by me. Impressive. Once again, i was burned on the descent.
I finished 16th overall. Not too bad since my intention was just to complete the race and have fun without competing. Well, i should have figured i couldn't put myself in a race without becoming a little competitive.
Mt Toby is a perfect race for any seasoned road runner to transition into a trail runner.If your interesed in giveing a trail race a try, this is a great one!
Ari, Casey, Paul, Brian (Duff), Me
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