Classic challenge. Sundail Bridge to Shasta Dam and back.
Hardest run of my life! Supported by my crew chief and ultra beauty Perta.
- First quarter went really well! Felt strong and quick.
- Second quarter was a bit tougher. Ran into the wind for nearly 10 miles. That section of trail seems to never end ?. Saw a California King Snake which was kinda cool. Glad he stayed away from me ?. The climb up to the dam was okay. Great view from the top! Weather was very nice whole time mid 70s to mid 80s and sunny ☀️.
- Third quarter started off great with the run down the dam road. Doesn’t get easier than running downhill! Once I got back to the main trail I had to slog it out. Couldn’t get cell service to play my music. That was super demotivating and got me frustrated ?. Even though I just ran this section it still seemed to never end. Luckily when I got to the aid station, Perta gave me a pep talk. Was getting pretty dehydrated around this time. Pee was dark ?.
- Fourth quarter made me happy. It’s the section I know best! Legs were feeling worked, but I was able to pick landmarks and motivate myself to run till those points. Was going through water quicker than normal. Found some strength at the end and crossed the Sundial at a great clip! Lots of pedestrians on the bridge! They had no idea I just ran for over 7.5 hours lol. I was so happy to be finished.
Fuel: used Clif Bloks (Strawberry) primarily. Drank water throughout. Gatorade at aid stations. Had a little bit of turkey lunch meat at the first aid station which was a mistake ?. Also ate some dried mango and pineapple. Had half a peanut butter and jelly sandwich at aid station 3 which went down easy! Had grape Pedialite at the end which was awesome!
Learned a lot! Longest run I’ve ever done!