I finally got my chance to do some real trail running today. My group was up in Holyoke running the St Patrick's Day race which gave me the opening to go with the
Shenipsit Striders to Penwood State Park. I wasn't sure what to expect but when finally running it was a rude awakening. Much harder than I imagined but still fun. Very steep inclines and most flat trails were rocks covered with leaves. Not the 10' wide gravel paths I thought were in most state parks. The picture below shows one of the many hills we had to walk because of the steepness and rocky terrain.
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| Part of the Traprock 50k course in Penwood State Park. 3/17/2012 |
It became clear that as the "new guy" and first time trail runner that I had to be last so as not to impact the experienced runners. Some of these guys had run 100 mile ultras in the past. The sudden change in angles were a constant challenge. I had to focus on each foot placement as I ran due to roots, stones, etc. There were a few areas that were flat and open which allowed me to run my normal stride. But I kept at it. I thoroughly enjoyed the entire run as well as the scenery.
I'll definitly run more trails and my interest in woodland ultras is even greater. The
Traprock 50k which is the 31 mile ultra run on this course must be a killer. As I write this my legs and back are sore from the pounding and turns. That is from one "loop". The Traprock is three "loops". Based on my 2:05 time the full race would take more than six hours and probably seven. Maybe next year.......