Pirates Cove 50k

(pictures courtesy of Brett Rivers)

On Friday the 20th, I decided that I would be running the Pirates Cove 50k instead of the 20k. But honestly, I considered not racing at all as fatigue was strong this week. Plus, my legs still felt the prior weekend. I woke-up Saturday seriously wondering if I've lost my mind, three 50ks in four weeks?!! I guess the addiction has begun. Will and I got to the Headlands and it was beautiful, overcast, and damp. The whole drive I was yawning (not because I was tired, but because that is what nerves always do to me before a race). As we were putting on our numbers, I did my typical nervous talk. I met Brett Rivers, Kate Morjohn, and Rick Gaston at the start. As we took off, I realized that I was running, no talking myself out of it now. The first 30k was rough mentally, my left hip flexor was tight and my breathing felt haphazard. I actually stopped to pee before heading up Marincello (I'll save the peeing in my shorts for special occasions). I just cruised along with Will acting like everything was fine. Until he asked of course, my reply = "i'm ok." As we finished the 30k loop, I seriously considered stopping, but I didn't. Jason Reed was just in front of Will and soon I could see Will gaining on him as I drifted back. My negative head took over and everything started bothering me, a little chaffing under my left arm, my shoulders felt tight, etc. I thought I was going to break down in tears. In fact I came really fucking close. It didn't help that Jason and Will were getting further and further in front of me. As I stated up Marincello, I gained on Jason and Will. At the top, I caught up to Jason who said Will passed him 5 minutes ago. I had a serious talking to myself at that point. I pulled myself out of my negative head. Glancing at the ocean and green hills and focusing on my breath helped. Then, I remembered how much I loved running and I started to pick up the pace. With just a little bit of the race left, I caught up to Will who once again encouraged me to keep going. I finished first overall and set the course record at 4:09, Will came in at 4:10, and Jason 4:17. Once again Pacific Coast Trail Runs put on a wonderful event. Thanks Wendell and Sarah. By the way, I am super grateful for the veggie soup. It was perfect to enjoy post-race as the rain came down.

Luckily I got some good sleep last night. I woke-up this morning to teach and I received another call from a doula client. She is currently in early labor. When I finished work, I fit in my yoga practice, good food, and I'll see if I have enough time for a nap. Two births and two 50ks in a week or so!