Rick's Run Ultra Challenge- Challenges Change Us

On September 16, 2018,  I had the pleasure of running in the Rick's Run Ultra Challenge. This trail run course include a 5.22 mile trail loop in Greenbrier State Park in Maryland. The course was challenging with steep climbs, rocks, mud and stream crossings.  Here are a few photos.
This trail run was named after a wonderful gentlemen who was apart of our local running club. He had a great passion for running and life. His infectious smile welcomed all. Although his earthly presence is no longer here, his spirit lives on in this race. You can read a little about Rick in a note written by his dear friend below.

Why  did I choose to run such a difficult course some have asked me? Now that I'm showered and had dinner, I believe I can answer this question.

My racing season has been derailed all year by health and personal setbacks, school and work commitments, and sporadic training due to the lack of time. No excuses just reality.

I chose this race for several reasons. It is local and low key. More importantly, this event was more of a challenge than a race. It is designed for each runner to compete against the course and the clock not against other athletes. Every athlete is given 8 hrs to complete as many loops he or she can. This was a perfect race for me. I could make it my own personal

challenge while sharing the course with friendly runners as they accomplish their personal goals. A win-win indeed. 

The Start

All runners, those who signed up for one loop only and Ultra Challenge, lined up at the start together. I started in the back. My plan was to "hurry slowly" through the first loop. I was not sure what the trail conditions would be like with all the rain recently so I wanted to run cautiously. I knew I had several loops to run and wanted to get a good visual on the constantly changing topography. With all the one loop runners, I was never alone.I ran through the finish with other one loop runners but proceeded to begin my second loop.

Second Loop

My confidence increased as I started my second loop. I knew where all the stream crossings, steep inclines, rock beds were and managed to complete my second loop with little fan fare.

Final Loop

As I began this loop, I became acutely aware of my fatigue.  I felt my heart beat and sloshing in my stomach from the emptiness. My muscles tighten and the thoughts in my head got louder. The third loop was the loneliest for sure.  I knew it would be. At this part in the race, the chances of seeing another runner were slim to none.

As I found myself climbing the steepest section of the trail again, I reflected.

Here were some of my thoughts...

1. There are many lessons we can learn as we climb the steepest sections on a course or descend into valleys. Whatever that lessons may be, we must use it as a reminder that no matter what happens we will be okay as long as we keep moving       (metaphorically and literally). No matter what, just keep putting on foot in front of the other. Before we know it, we will find ourselves in a different mental and physical space.
2. Disconnect to reconnect-  In my opinion, trail running, and individual sports in general, can help people reconnect with others and ourselves. I observed many runners sharing stories or pleasantries with one another or running peacefully in silence ( That was me). At the fueling station, runners gave encouraging words to those who chose to journey on for another loop or praise to those who accomplished their goal and chose to end their race.  Folks smiled and laughed with one another and few had their faces buried in a cellphone screen.
3.  Fear ends where faith begins. I signed up for this race less than a month before I participated in it. I decided to focus on what I could control and surrender what I could not. I could control my mental out look, heart rate (I ran with a great monitor), pace and fuel. Do I wish I had more time to train? Yes, of course. Am I happy with what I accomplished? Absolutely!  I made a few wrong turns and ran more than 5.22 mile per loop, but I managed to complete my goal of 3 loops. Three loops=17.47 miles, or 42,957 steps.

If you ever want to reconnect with nature and/or yourself, sign up for a trail run. This was a well organized race. The volunteers and food station had everything from cold clothes to burgers to hummus to bandages for your feet. The signs along the course were inspiring and funny. Also, the price was right.

Would I do this race again? Yes.

Until next time...Enjoy the journey