Nookachamps

Nookachamps 5K, 10K and !/2 Marathon was this morning.  Despite the snow and ice, there was a large group that went up to run the 10K and 1/2 Marathon courses.  Yesterday there were a flurry of emails between us, trying to figure out who was still going up in these snowy conditions.  Of course, like most little planners, someone emailed the race director to find out the conditions.  We got the message that the race was on, the main roads were clear, and to "just use your judgement" when it comes to the icy parts.

The snow started to fall down when I reached mile 2, and I was REALLY glad that I was only doing a 10K.  6.2 miles is plenty in the snow.  I tip my hat to those who stuck it out for the 1/2 Marathon.  I wish I had my camera during the race because it was probably the most beautiful race I've ever done.  I've run through some amazing landscapes and spectacular cities, but the weather created an experience that was absolutely magical.  Imagine this...light snow flakes falling around you while you run through the countryside.  Trumpeter swans in formation flying above.  Mountains in the background.  An eagle perched.  A mile of snow covered trail winding through a park before the finish.  No wind.  No rain.  Sun shining through the clouds, and a sea of runners gliding on the roads.

This was the first time that I've run on ice and snow.  Only some of the course was icy, so wearing cleats was out of the question.  I think we still had quick times because we wanted to get out of the cold.  However, navigating through the icy spots was comical.  I remember running downhill on a snowy trail towards the end.  I concentrated on keeping a determined stride, just so I wouldn't tumble.  Actually, running on a snowy trail wasn't bad because I felt sure-footed on the fresh snow.  The tricky part was the icy patches on asphalt.  That's when I "ran like a girl" with my arms held out and tiny prancing baby steps.  I'm sure it was a funny sight.  All in all, I am so glad we went up and it's turning into a fun race season as we gear up for our big Spring races.