View Workout (Tom O'Reilly)

Return to Log

North Face Endurance Challenge at Bear Mountain, NY

May 5, 2012 (Morning)

Exercise Type: Run

Weather: 60-65 degrees. Post rain. Misty. Muddy.

Comments:
What an amazing race!! My god... I was glad to be done with it. :-D. I ran the marathon distance today, but it felt more like 2 marathons! This was the ultimate challenge on the toughest course imaginable. The elevation was unrelenting and the terrain offered no respit to the foot or the brain. Continued focus was paramount. One misstep and you were going down. There was a lot of sliding in the mud, and some of the rocks were quite slippery as well. I hit the half way point and I was already tired. I just kept pressing forward knowing that the finish was closer with each step. After the 2nd aid station (9 miles) I walked every significant climb. The last two miles were exhausting. I had to watch my step on certain descents because my legs were shot. As I approached the finish line my calves began to spasm, and I just prayed that I could hold it together until I crossed the mats. Elaine was right there and I got a much deserved kiss. Boogz was handy with a cold beer and I gladly downed it straight away. Ahhhhh. Finished.
I loved it!!! I can't wait to hit the 50k mark later this year!!