It's Monday evening and I'm still dragging my sorry butt around after another terrific but exhausting Rum Runners Relay. The weather was glorious, though a little too hot, and my teammates were friendly, supportive and fun so we had a great time together.
I ran leg #1, which got underway at 6:30. It wasn't my best run ever - in part because it was mostly uphill. (In fact, the first 7 kms were one long unremitting climb. No wonder I was in pain by the midpoint.) Added to which, I went out too fast - a rookie mistake I shouldn't have made but my adrenaline was up and I didn't realize how fast I was going until two kms into the race - by which time the damage was done.
In any case, I didn't entirely embarrass myself. Despite the mistake, I managed to "make the mat", running an average of 5:54/km - not what I was hoping for but it could have been worse.
At the beginning of leg 3, we managed to get the team together in one place long enough for a team photo. My buddy Dave is missing, unfortunately, because he came down with a nasty cold last week and sensibly decided to stay home and join us just prior to his leg (#10). We missed his company throughout the day but were grateful he found the energy to run well when he finally arrived.
The relay route, along a secondary highway that hugs the coastline, is spectacular for much of the way,
...which took some of the pain out of running in temperatures approaching 30 degrees C, though it was still darn tough.
Several teammates took the opportunity to cool off with a swim when they finished their legs. Here's Delia getting ready to take a well-served dip at Queensland Beach after running the longest toughest leg (#4).
Despite the heat, everyone ran well and enjoyed the day, which was the most important thing, as far as I was concerned.
Before signing off, a huge thank you to race organizers. Once again, they did a fantastic job which was much appreciated by all the participants. Thanks too to my wonderful teammates who did an amazing job supporting and encouraging one another (and me)! Hopefully, I'll see many of my devilish friends on the Cabot Trail in May 2015.
What's the weather like in Cape Breton in May?
ReplyDeleteGorgeous, of course - though occasionally there's some snow involved. ;-) Seriously, it's hard to predict. It's usually lovely and warm in the day time but can get pretty darn chilly in the mountains at night. If you're interested in joining us, check out the relay's website for a description of the route. It's an amazing event but you want to be ready physically and mentally. :-)
DeleteWow - great job! And what a beautiful day you had (although, it was hot for running). Loved seeing the pictures and getting the recap - everyone looked like they were having a good time. And I see you're talking Cabot Trail for the spring again!
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