The Background
I was enjoying a lot of free time in the summer. I trained with a combination of 5-mile runs and hikes. I had to present at a conference in Kerrville, so I used the trip to do a couple of runs at the Hill Country State Natural Area.
Muleshoe Bend 60k was to be the first race of the season. I would have to miss watching the Western States 100 on the same day. I drove out and arrived an hour or so before.
The Race
Shortly into the race, I felt a lack of motivation. I conservatively ran/hiked at the back of the pack to try to stay in good shape.
I finished the 1st loop in 2:16. But then I followed an arrow that was not meant for me, and ran the wrong way maybe a third of a mile. Another fellow made the same mistake, and when we saw a sign for 5k/kids run, we turned around. So it was about 2:30 elapsed when I started the 2nd loop.
As night fell, a search and rescue helicopter circled overhead. I finished the 2nd loop in 2:55, but I think that counted the extra time for the detour.
My headlamp kept going off, so I asked an aid station worker to help me change the batteries.
I knew I would be fighting the cutoffs, and I struggled to keep up 20-minute miles hiking. This fed my anxiety, and I questioned why I run long races.
A fellow pulled up behind me and we chatted a bit as we approached the end of the 3rd loop, which I completed in 3:05.
I eventually increased my cushion where 24-minute miles would ensure a finish. I was still moving at 20-minute miles.
Then, I saw a headlamp behind me. I decided to not let the fellow past me. I ran every time he got close. At around 50k, I saw a runner I know and respect, Nancy.
The other runner never passed me, and I finished the 4th loop in 3:04. I was 18th out of 22 finishers and 26 starters.
Reflections
I am proud that I worked not to get passed. Since I have been finishing close to the cutoffs for this race the past few times, I need to write down the splits and cutoffs to lessen my anxiety.
Afterwards, he satisfaction of sore legs and a finish reminded my why I run long races!
