Race Day: 5/6/2007
Weather: Low 40’s. Absolutely beautiful morning! The sun rose to totally illuminate the canyon just in time for a 6:15am start.
Course: The race began at a small campground nestled along the canyon at Stephen’s Gulch. Totally downhill, the course meandered its way from 6100ft down to about 4900ft. The first 16 miles were completed framed by the canyon walls. The foothills created a remarkable setting and totally took my breath away, both figuratively and literally. As we traveled along the river, we were greeted by several fly-fishermen waving encouragement. Eventually the course exited the canyon and headed for Old Town, Fort Collins. The last several miles of the course were set on a scenic bicycle trail allowing amazing views of the foothills.
Personal Experience: This was my first marathon in six weeks (since Ocean Drive). I’ve been nursing some injured IT bands and trying to regain my confidence. I anticipated an easy downhill marathon with beautiful scenery. As it turned out, the marathon was considerably more difficult than I anticipated. The constant downhill took its toll on my quads, and the altitude made felt as if someone were sitting on my chest. That’s what I get for being a flat-lander.
Other than the physical side-effects, Dave and I had an amazing experience. Our times were less than stellar, but even a poor time could not diminish the beautiful course scenery and the lively nights spent in Ft. Collins.
Conclusion: Great technical T-shirt! I loved this race. I hope in the future I will come better trained and prepared for the altitude. The organizers did a terrific job. There were plenty of Pot-o-potties, well organized bus rides, and super easy bag check. This is definitely an A race.
Final Grade: A
Weather: Low 40’s. Absolutely beautiful morning! The sun rose to totally illuminate the canyon just in time for a 6:15am start.
Course: The race began at a small campground nestled along the canyon at Stephen’s Gulch. Totally downhill, the course meandered its way from 6100ft down to about 4900ft. The first 16 miles were completed framed by the canyon walls. The foothills created a remarkable setting and totally took my breath away, both figuratively and literally. As we traveled along the river, we were greeted by several fly-fishermen waving encouragement. Eventually the course exited the canyon and headed for Old Town, Fort Collins. The last several miles of the course were set on a scenic bicycle trail allowing amazing views of the foothills.
Personal Experience: This was my first marathon in six weeks (since Ocean Drive). I’ve been nursing some injured IT bands and trying to regain my confidence. I anticipated an easy downhill marathon with beautiful scenery. As it turned out, the marathon was considerably more difficult than I anticipated. The constant downhill took its toll on my quads, and the altitude made felt as if someone were sitting on my chest. That’s what I get for being a flat-lander.
Other than the physical side-effects, Dave and I had an amazing experience. Our times were less than stellar, but even a poor time could not diminish the beautiful course scenery and the lively nights spent in Ft. Collins.
Conclusion: Great technical T-shirt! I loved this race. I hope in the future I will come better trained and prepared for the altitude. The organizers did a terrific job. There were plenty of Pot-o-potties, well organized bus rides, and super easy bag check. This is definitely an A race.
Final Grade: A
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