Yesterday was the very first 25k Maryland Heat Race (and yes it was hot) and first time Race Director Nick Yeates pulled off a grand success by every means. Let me start the review off by saying thank you and congratulations to Nick and his wife and all the volunteers who made this even such a wonderful experience. Great job guys!
This was actually the second of two in new races being held on the the Patapsco trails - the first being Phil Lang's (Bulls Eye Running) Mid Maryland 50k held back in February - otherwise known as the Great Mud Run of 2012. Nick's race lacked the knee deep mud but made up for it with a river (yes, the river not a stream) crossing, several small stream crossings, hills, rocks and fallen trees and limbs. Even trade? Really this was a tough 25k - I have been running these trails for years and am quite familiar with them - however Nick (the evil genius of RD's) strung them together in such a way to inflict maximum punishment on the runner. Okay, yes, Nick is an evil genius but there was more to the trails then punishing terrain, there was a real flow to the run and it's obvious that some careful planning went into the details. I was impressed. Also impressive was the care in which the trails were marked for the race - knowing them well gave me an advantage but even if I were a first time runner here I would have been very happy with the markings and how easier it was to stay on track. As a matter of fact knowing the trails may have worked slightly against me as I had a previous bias on which way to go and it seemed by feet would take me there automatically if I wasn't mindful. I strayed - but not for long (and thanks to all the runners who yelled at me!)
My shoe choice was a bit unfortunate. I have run the course in my Vibrams before with little issue so figured my Merell Trail Gloves would be fine - however I failed to take into account that I have never RACED (or run hard) through the rockier sections and that it had been a little while since I've covered that ground in my Vibrams. My feet were soft, my shoes were light and the trail was rocky! Even before midpoint they were complaining and I knew what was coming (Pigs Run!) and knew it would be painful. It didn't help matters when I took a fall on a root and split my big toe nail down the middle - and I still love trail running! So my hoped for sub 3 hour finish became 3:15 with a slight limp in. Worth it.
The aide stations were all nicely stocked with friendly, cheerful volunteers helping out - I'm always amazed by the dedication of people who come out on a hot or cold day to lend their support and they not only have my thanks but my respect and admiration as well. Thank you all!
Not only does Nick plan a terrific race but he throws a great party as well! The after party was a great opportunity to meet fellow runners and their families, chat with old friends and rest, refuel and relax as well. I really appreciated the vegan options as even some high financed races don't always provide for us - nice touch Nick and thank you. And whoever made the Tofu BBQ - it was perfect after the long miles. Thanks!
I'm really hoping that Nick is planning this as a annual event - races like this only grow in reputation and status (while retaining their charm - much like Conestoga) so with such a great start from the beginning this race should easily become THE even of the summer for locals and non locals alike. I'm already looking forward to next year!
Thanks for reading,
Eric
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