Lake Hodges 50K

as a photographer, i failed at this race only getting these pictures.  but as a runner, i met all my goals. Lake Hodges has been an interesting race with a colorful history in it's short four years.  on it's second race director, the course has never been the same twice.  the second year of this race it started 2 hours late because the RD had over slept.   last year it was cursed with wind, rain and hail  having to necessitate a late course change.  one that confused many and some runners even ended up running a course of their own design. the dead rat entertained many runners. this year the course was changed again late in the week adding to the confusion.  we started almost 30 minutes late.  early on i missed a turn and took many runners with me and we had to turn around and go back.  i think the course markings were confusing.  what was added again this year was that horrible hill.  last year we had to climb it four times, yesterday it was only  twice.  at the bottom of the hill was a blazer that had been stolen and pushed off the top of the hill.  were they trying to hide it down here???  they had stuffed bunny rabbits along the way that added a fun easter touch. the chilly temps at the beginning aided in a fast start but the heat at the end beat many runners.

George, me and fellow Javalina DNF'r Kirk before the race.

but dad, can i please take the Blazer out for a trail run tonight?

this snake was a monster ratteler.  he kindly removed himself from the trail but i had to go back and get a picture.

the lake was beautiful in the early morning and i can just kick myself for not getting some pictures along the way.  they had a nice little footbridge to help us across the creek.  last year it was a raging river that went up to our thighs.  no one was able to stay dry last year except for maybe jeff.  (he was a cat in his former life). once back to the start finish area,  we headed out in the opposite direction for a total of 16 miles.  this would be the test for many of the newer runners.  the day was getting hot and this end of the course was exposed to the sun and heat. along this stretch is where we encountered Mr. Rattle snake.  i wonder who else had a chance to see him?  there was still one big climb to be done both out and back.  40% of the runners had never done an ultra and as predicted, many runners were failing fast.  i stayed focused and my finish time was 7:02, only a little slower for the second half then on the first.  i met all my goals for the day.  i had no time in mind but i had four runners that i used to measure my strength and improvement by.  i made out just as i had hoped.  my execution at the aid stations went well only having to refill my bladder (holds the water that i drink) twice.  the last three miles were a test of will due to the sun and heat and i remained efficient to the finish.