Today's 12 hour run was unbelievable! Every finish was a story in it's own, and every performance was inspiring!
Conditions were brutal- a hard rain on the dry trails at the start rendered the trails about as slippery as they could get... pretty greasy at the beginning. The windless humid air was oppressive, and our runners were getting depleted early on.
Nonetheless, no whiners, no quitters, just brave competitors heading out on each successive loop. ...Even some light bantering amongst the competitors as they snuck by each other while the other was grazing at the aid station table. Delirium perhaps? No, just willful and focused ultrarunners on a mission.
John and I are always grateful for the loyalty of our HURT family- so many came out to help us with the set up and break down of the aid station, to visit with us, and to hang out and keep us company and cheer on their fellow HURT runners. (...and I think not out of duty, but because they just wanted to be there whether they were competing or not). The overall cheerful attitude set the mood for the runners.(and I've seen the same spirit at all of the other Trail Series races this year)
Although weary from the long day, we arrived home still giddy, warm and fuzzy with good thoughts about our most cherished friends showing up at the race one by one- each appearance was a treat and everyone was very helpful. It made this aid station easy to run.
Thanks to all of you. It was a wonderful and satisfying way to end the 2006 Trail Series. You are the best.
Aloha, PJ
When we heard about the earthquake here on the Mainland, our first thoughts were about our family and friends in Hawaii.
When we learned that things were relatively okay, our second thoughts were if any of our HURT family were on the trails when it hit. From PJ's note, it sounds like the 12-Hour run went well. Are there any interesting "trail running during an earthquake" stories to share with the HURT expatriates on the Mainland?
Posted by: Carl Gammon | October 16, 2021 at 03:44 AM
you and John are the best...
Posted by: cheryl | October 15, 2021 at 09:34 PM