I’d like to start this post by first saying, “I have the best dad EVER!” Other than my son, my dad is my biggest supporter! Going to races are just so much better with the love of family and friends! With that said, I had one of the best Xterra races of the year!
Boney Mountain, the Granddaddy of the Southern California Xterra’s is considered one of toughest trail races—and it is! Most of the 13.1 miles are spent climbing up steep and rocky single-track terrain.
In October 2006, I ran Boney Mountain for the very first time and as it turns out, it was my very first Xterra! From the very first terribly sore legs, that had me hobbling for the next few days, making stairs virtually impossible, I was in love—in love with the fresh air, stunning views and exciting challenge of an uber “cross country” run! As of today’s race I have competed in and finished 18 Xterras!
Just off of my Christmas break, I teach, I had a lot of time to run and train. So I felt pretty confident I would do well in this race. However I didn’t think I would run this fast.
I have been disappointed in my previous times in the last 2 Xterra races this season. I didn’t seem to be getting any faster. I felt like I was doing well, but my times were not improving—that’s why I am so stoked to have PR’ed on this course! And also that it didn’t feel as arduous as other attempts! I always enjoy my runs, but this one was just a little more sweet! There were a lot of people out there this year; a lot of people to keep company with although with some briefer than others. A lot of encouragement and at 1,765 feet, a man with his two daughters cheered us on, when I needed it the most!
Before the race I peed in a bush literally! Often the trait of a good trail runner! Really it is! At the start line, I felt comforted by all of the familiar faces and trail friends I saw- you can’t say that at most races! We were ready to go. The Sunday before I ran 22 miles, (I am running Rock N Roll Arizona marathon next week.) I hoped I had enough recovery. Although my legs felt fresh, the gun shot and off we went.
Down “black bitch,” a not so PC nickname given to the very rare paved downward steeping road that is known for burning out legs of inexperienced runners! Then a gradual up, up up~ like a winding snake about 1,000 feet and then down again. While beginning climbing thoughts of doubt and why began to fill my head. I muttered, “Why am I doing this? This isn’t even the tough climb! Ugh!”
A quick snap back to reality took me past 5 miles and onto 6 and a quick pit stop at the port-a-potty—yes, I had to go again! Freshly out of the port-a-potty I spotted my friend and running partner, Rory, I caught up and playfully growled at him as I passed. We were in the midst of ascending 4 miles to 1800 feet! What a struggle, walking on some steep parts I just kept trudging onward. At 1400 feet
we had a momentary break and a short lived down hill then up again. Finally at the top, I took a deep breath and knew it would be over soon.
Then ahhh the best part the downhill! I fly down hill! So I managed to pass people going down that had passed me going up. To me running down is like a dance with fancy footwork; a coordinated symphony between my feet and the rocky descending trail.
This year there was a stream crossing around mile 12, while running near, I watched several other runners tip-toeing through it, daintily making their way across. Much to their chagrin and surprise I splashed right through the water, passing all of the runners at the creek but one!
My finish was strong too. I passed another group of runners and pushed ahead, trying not to be tempted to look back! I try to never look back, but just pretend no matter how far ahead I am or not—that the runners are right behind me. Although after a while I couldn’t resist I took a quick glance and I had made quite a gap between myself and the other runners.
Last year I missed Boney Mountain because I had a work obligation, in Jan 12, 2008, I ran 2:34:20, and in Oct 2006 2:27:52 Today I ran 2:25:25 and I even had one restroom stop! (Boney Mountain used to be raced in October but Due to October being a month with high fire risk and to recent wild fires, was moved to January.)
Although I took 8th
place in my age group, I am not disappointed at all! I couldn’t ask for a better personal record! ~ Hopefully the streak will continue on to next week in Arizona while I attempt to go for a sub 4 hour marathon again!
Here’s to all the great people who run the Xterra trail races~ you are an amazing and unique group of people! I enjoy meeting you all and enjoy your company! Happy Running!
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