FIT Project Denver edition

October 9, 2011

After over 2 months of literally being on the road and in the skies, I am finally getting around to race recaps!

In 2011 the FIT Project (Fitness Inspired Tour) is an attempt to run all 18 Rock n’ Roll races in 2011.

So, if you have a good memory, I just ran the San Jose Half Marathon last Sunday. The Sunday before that the VT 50 Miler. The Sunday before that the Philadelphia Half Marathon. Yes, it’s been a long year. 

My legs were tired and I was wondering how they would feel running at elevation to boot. Race morning came quickly. We picked up Daniella and made our way to the starting area. It was dark and cold! People were huddled together to keep warm. 

Soon the sunrise started to make it’s appearance. Although it was more for just a really pretty photo vs warmth. We runners jammed into the corrals and soon the gun sounded and the race began. 

I love running in Colorado. While it literally takes your breath away, the views also do. The mountain peaks were covered in snow and were simply majestic.

My goal for every half marathon is run a sub 2 hour. I knew today would be challenging. The hill at mile 4 about did me in. At the one hour mark I had just over 6 miles. Pathetically slow. I would have to HUSTLE to get under 2 hours. I kept running, encouraging myself with snarky, positive thoughts. It’s Denver, so the course had hills. One at mile 10-11ish and 12 were especially fun. And by fun I mean cruel. My watch kept ticking and I kept running. Sub 2 would be a miracle. Finally, mile marker 13 was in sight, someone shouted “around the corner and you’re done!”. And with that I gave it my all and I crossed the finish line in 1:59:31. 29 seconds to spare. WHEW. Thank you Jesus!! 

Quickly had some food, changed out of my sweaty clothes and then sprinted to the airport to rent a car so the Celebration Ride2 trip could begin in a few hours…

Whoa! 2:30am came WAY to fast!!! Wiped the sleep out of my eyes, ate a quick breakfast, Phil came at 3:30am. Quickly loaded up my truck w/ all the gear and we were off to Dulles.

Parked in the lot, aka, land of no return. Then it was time for the moment of truth. My BIG bag weighed in at 49lbs. OMG!!! I just made it!! That was great news.

On to flight. 6am flight to Denver first. Apparently I was pretty tired. I was in the middle seat, asleep and Gregg accidentally hit with his arm. I never moved.

Landed in Denver. Had 10 min to make the connection. No time for Jamba Juice. Sigh. On a little prop plane to Rapid City. Short flight. Hello South Dakota! 35mph winds! 65 temps. It was cold! Whoa!

Got picked up by Casey’s Car Rental. Drove into town. Had a nice lunch at Colonial House. Then we went over to Safeway for more last minute food. I wanted my red grapes I always crave on runs!

Spent a little time in the city. Checked the local running store. Of course!!

Then it was on to Mt. Rushmore! My first time seeing it live! So cool!

Since I was the pilot (aka driver) my 2 passengers took a nap while driving into Hot Springs. Sigh. Perhaps I will get a nap tomorrow. Passed Buffalo. Kind of funny seeing the creatures right on the road. If you hear a scream Saturday you’ll know why:)

Passed some really cute shops. WILL be back!

Finally arrived in Hot Springs. Checked in at hotel. Then went down to check in for race! Race number 102 baby! It’s feeling very real now.

Then back to the room to get some work done. Didn’t get to bed til 11pm. It’s been a LONG day.

Night all!

Photo by dean.franklin

WHOA!!! What a fun morning+afternoon+evening that was! Got to see David Beckham play. Toured Nurtilite Laps. Meet & greet at Beverly Hills Ritz with AC Milan. Awesome.

Woke up t the bright beautiful sun. Gloirious morning! Glad to be alive!

Had 14 miles to tackle. I knew my route. Nice to know where I was running! I must say I LOVE this weather. Sun. NO HUMIDITY. Rocks. Saw 2 whales. Did take a quick second to dip my feet in the sand. Ran 14 miles in 2:19.

Quickly hit the hotel pool. Only had time to swim 500 meters. BUT. I got a really great tan. Good thing I didn’t have any more time. I might have sacred everyone when I come home tonight!

Quickly shot some videos. Packed. Sunburn pain slowly fading. On way to airport. Layover in Denver. Back in DC at 1 am.

Thanks for having me Long Beach. I will be back!

Photo by CLF