5Peaks
5km trail race
Durham Regional Forest
June 13, 2009
http://www.5peaks.com/home.asp
Before race
My early goal for the race was a top 5 finish. However, the day before the race I spent 5 hours hunched over, helping my dad tear the shingles off our roof. My pains made me believe this was more than just a minor set back in achieving my goal. Still, I kept a goal for a top ten finish instead, and under 20 minutes was my goal time. I woke up the morning of the race and getting out of bed was difficult. I didn’t warm up as much as usual just because it hurt and I didn’t want to lose before i started.
The Race
I went out in the first wave and was off to a good start. My back was tense and painful, but my legs were still working fine. I pushed through the first 3km trying to keep up with the runner ahead. I managed to, all the way up the largest hill in the race. The down hill on the other hand, I wasn’t keeping up. My back was agonizing down this long downhill and I was glad to be finished with it. Through the 2nd last section of single track I lost sight of the other runner. I slowed down a little, but continued pushing through the pain in fear someone was close behind. Coming out of the woods onto the final 500m stretch I could see the runner just finishing. I pushed to the finish as best as I could.
After Race
I was more than impressed with my race. I finished in 19:36. I came 4th overall, and 2nd for under 19. Considering the circumstances this was a great success. It even met my initial goal. I was amazed at how little the pain actually affected my performance. It was bothersome and agonizing, but just a minor set back. I went home, and relaxed in the hot tub, proud of my race.
