What a run!
Regina started the supported effort, Sam's Last Stand, at 6am February 28th, Saturday morning. The first 20 miles felt great and the trail was well groomed. I was behind two men and could see them at times. The lead man pulled away after a while and I couldn't see him.
At mile 20, I had planned to pick up pacer but ended up dropping her after less than 1 minute due to the nature of the trail being more difficult and her not being prepared for that. The trail was less well groomed from that point on, but still a great day and perfect weather.
Regina supported the 25 runners on the course with water jugs and our nutrition food bin at trailheads. I started to nose dive a bit at TH7 when it started getting hotter and I wasn't enjoying my food anymore. I was leaving the TH when the third place man was coming in...so it seemed we were pretty close to each other. My crew didn't show up at TH8 and I continued to nose dive on nutrition, but still felt good running. I passed the 2nd place man. The first place man was about an hour ahead of me I was told.
I was supposed to meet my crew again at mile 73 after crossing the San Jacinto but missed them again. Miles 82-90 or trail head 13-14 were pretty rough. Lots of down trees and super difficult to find the trail. It felt like I was moving through a war zone.
TH 14-15 was much easier and went by quickly. I was happy to finally see my crew at the end! I was also told the first place man dropped out earlier.
Lots of ways to improve on this route! A bit more support and better technology (my watch and phone about died and I had to stop using them to let them charge...) would save a bunch of time!
Regina did an awesome job supporting the effort for all of us! She was so supportive and made this a really possible FKT for me.