I picked up Jillian and Tracey and we made our way to the start line. The wind was strong, which made the chilly temperatures seem even colder. We actually joked that we were going to stay in the porta potty as it was the only shelter we could find.
The Tidal Trail run is held entirely on a gravel trail (duh...the title says trail) so passing is difficult. Runners lined up based on estimated finishing times to try and minimize the congestion. Luckily, the first 1.5km of the run was in a park setting which allowed us a bit of shelter from the wind. Unfortunately the minute we hit the open trail, Tracey and I were both like "WTF". You took 1 step forward and the wind blew you 2 steps back...it was crazy!!! I think I may have said `Well this was a stupid idea.`
My hair is not sideways in this picture because I am going fast...by this point (around 7k) the wind was finally at our back. At one point, Tracey was in front of me and she literally got blown from one side of the trail to other...it was nuts!
It was an out and back course which was nice for seeing other runners. The first 1.5k may be sheltered, but it has many rolling little inclines and declines...which means the final 1.5k does as well. If not for Tracey, I would have stopped and walked in that last 1.5k...the wind had sucked the life out of my legs!! I managed to cross in 58.10 which I was super happy with given my lack of distance training and the wind conditions!! I did it all for this medal...as the runner actually moves across from left to right.
Tracey and I cheered in other runners while waiting for Jillian to cross. All in all it was a great race...well organized, chip timed, and a small reception at the end (not that we participated as we were freezing...LOL). Again....all 3 of us insisted on Tims hot tea/coffee to warm our insides as we drove home!
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