Sunday, September 11, 2011

Red Rock Relay

This past weekend myself and 11 other coworkers ran the Red Rock Relay - a 187 mile two day running adventure. 

The race started at Brian Head Ski Resort and finished at the entrance to Zion National Park - a beautiful, dramatic backdrop for the finish line.

Each runner was assigned 3 legs varying in distance and terrain. My first leg was a simple 3 mile run with a gradual uphill. The real test began on my second leg. I began my run at 1:00 AM. It was a 4 mile leg with a grueling 1000 foot climb in elevation. The only thing that kept me sane while running up the mountain side was my music and the occasional coyote. My third leg began at 8:00 AM. It was a 5 mile leg with a 500 foot climb in elevation. This last leg was nearly impossible for me. I was running on 2 hours of sleep and sore legs.


After running through rain, hail, dirt, and dust, our team crossed the finished line. We completed the relay in 28 hours, averaging 9 minute miles. It was such an exhilarating moment crossing that BEAUTIFUL finish line. 

Although at times I found myself thinking, "what did I get myself into," (there may or may not have been some bad words going through my mind as well), I am so happy to have accomplished this and am already looking forward to next year's race! 



Zion National Park - more pictures to follow later
  

3 comments:

Scott & Ali said...

you guys did great!

David and Kira said...

That is awesome! I can't imagine climbing that altitude in such short miles!! Good job!!

Dana said...

That is amazing! Way to go you two.