I've had my eye on this for a while thanks to Rob. Decided on the 27th to go for it the next day! I got the the start around 8am (not late enough) and got everything ready.
In the past I thought I was "too cool" for food during runs so my plan was to test out some new nutrition. At 5 miles my feet were going numb from the way I tied my laces. I stoped a few times to address this. Once out of the wash I opted for the ridge climb instead of continuing down the gully. If I did this again I think I may stay lower for longer. After that decision it was a big SLOW slog to the top! I got to the the plaque around 1:46:30. I ran by some confused people, snapped a photo, took in the beautiful view and headed back down.
On the way down I decided to hop off the ridge and descend down a sandy/loose rock slope into the gully. I took a few small falls and ankle twists, but nothing bad. It was smooth sailing back in the wash until my hat got blown off at mile 11. Luckily that happened right as I was veering off in the wrong direction. A quick map check put me right back on the path to the finish!
LESSON: Drinking water and eating food makes your body feel good. Who wouldda know!? A good day to be out as always.