It is a dark, cool morning. The light of the flashlight scans the rocky road. It is quite except for the steady sound of breathing and a single pair of feet falling on the road.
Dirt changes to pavement and cars speed by in a tornado of heated air and exhaust. It is still a pitch black early morning sky.
Pavement is again dirt, illuminated by the brightening sky, and the call of various birds echoing off the surrounding rock mountains.
Ahead is a stretch of road that is called the Mesa. There is no electricity or running water to the smattering of houses here. The road is straight for the most part yet has the ability to become a mirage in several sections. The sun is up in full glory which revels the stark landscape. It is a place where runs come to die. Think of the place where the Onceler lives from the story "The Lorax". It is a place that drives the question "why am I doing this?" deep into one's soul.
Finally after narrowly surviving the war with the Mesa, the road transitions and the homestretch seems in striking distance.
Feet feel swollen and burn like running on hot coals. Toes feel sore and the insteps cramp. Thighs grip onto bone screaming for mercy and the heat from the sun boils what little reserve you have out the top of your head. Streams of fatigue streak your face as sweat pours uncontrollably from your body.
Tears, sobs and deep relief come with the last steps of this 34 mile run.
wait wait wait...you know there is no way in hell this was me right? My husband Jesse ran this run. I ate nutella on waffles while sipping lots of coffee and playing on Facebook!
His run was a test of epic proportions and I hope it tells him that he will not only complete his first Ultra at 54 miles, but will do great! I am so proud of him. I also can't wait till this is over and we can start running together again, I miss my coach.
-Cheers from the Vivác Winery Family!
www.vivacwinery.com
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