Canon de Mariposas 50k was a great great run...and to think I almost didn't do it. Traditionally, October - December is a tough time to take a runcation since I coach MS Cross Country. Put simply, I could still take a Saturday off, but I want to continue coaching. I like it. Luckily, our trip organizer, Freddy, was willing to leave after my CC meet on Saturday.
Another couple reasons I had second thoughts was because the last time I went to do a run in Mexico (http://bens-running-mis-adventures.blogspot.com/2018/08/it-could-always-be-worse.html) I ate or drank something I shouldn't have and got the runs for 3 weeks. Oh, yeah...I lost my keys also. The trip was more of an adventure that I bargained for, but we won't get into that.
I have been running but not "training" very hard, so that was something that worried me a little. I mean I kinda figured I could finish, but would it be ugly? It turned out it wasn't pretty, but it also wasn't ugly.
I like ultras because I can afford to take several miles to "warm up" or get into the groove of it. This run was no exception.
Distances are approximate.
Miles 1-9:
It took me a bit to ease into it if I can call it that. I was ok during this stretch, but I wasn't feeling it. I kinda had made the decision to stop at mile 9 which was right before a toughie climb. Unfortunately, a friend, Nora Ruiz , was at that aid station cheering people and gave me the business for even bringing the subject up. I'm glad I listened to her.
At this point, the run had a climb of about maybe 2 miles and then back down. I don't have the climbing legs, so I struggled. On my way up, I ran into another friend, Brandon, who was coming down already. We said hi, and he blurted "This is a #%(*$*( huge mountain." Definitely not what I wanted to hear.
I struggled up but took advantage of the downhill like everybody else.
Miles 14-23:
This stretch promised to be the most scenic but also most worrisome. We were encouraged to use a hydration bladder/vest because there would be no water these miles.
The sights did not disappoint. Specifically, this little section.
Miles 25-31:
The last section or 10k was my time to reflect on what a great run this was. I met a lot of great people and had a great time.
Definitely worth the struggle.
