Albion Hills
Five Peaks Trail Running Series
7.1km trail race
Albion Hills Conservation Area, Caledon Hills
September 13, 2008
Day of Race
I had a full day planned race day and was very lucky that I could even make it to the race. I had a hockey tournament in Mississauga and three games scheduled that day. I had one game right before the race and two after. After the morning game I rushed out of the dressing room, jumped in the car and drove to the race.
Start
It was an unusual and quick start for me. Usually I help set up the expo area and do the “rabbiting” for the kids race. This time however I ran from my car to the start line, was handed my timing chip and bib by my coach, put them on and had only 10 seconds before I had to start. No warm up, no quiet time to relax, breath nor calm myself before the race. I got on the starting mat and began my race. I also didn’t get a chance to see who I should be looking for to draft off of or to see what my competition was like. It was not the greatest way to start a race.
The Race
My legs were tight from playing hockey earlier then getting right in the car and sitting until my race. I kept thinking to myself, don’t worry when your done this you only have two more hockey games left. I pushed it even harder thinking I can’t go back to my team with anything less than first. Through the rolling and twisty trail my legs were very constricted and slowed me down. Usually my legs are strong and loser. At 6km my legs felt weak, but I pushed it in the last 1.1km. Sprinting into the finish I knew I did all I could that race. I left everything I had. I finished 1st for my age, 4th for under 19, and 6th overall. My time was 29:46.
After Race
After the race, I quickly got something to eat and stretched out. I picked up my medal and then it was time to go to my next hockey game. I wasn’t too sure about how well I’d be skating for that game.
