Race Report 8/2/08 12 Hour Ultramarthon Long Island

Hi all--The long day is now over, and today I have muscle aches, shafing everywhere, and am happy with all that I've done. I believe that I'll be ok for the Himalyas race. Just imagine that I'll have to feel like this for 5 solid days. I'd like to wash my hair but am shafed and can't withstand the beating of water. I think I'll put some clothes on and take a shoer that way.But let me tell you how I got Saturday went. It was a hot and wet start and I don't know if watching the Tour De France was good for me. As you know there is the lead pack, chase pack and the peleton. The race started with a quick break away of 4 runners. Not wanting to be left behind, I hung on to the chase pack of 3 runners, all men and me. There after was the peleton, about 95 or so people.I led the women's race for the first 15 miles. I wish I could have held on. It rained and my feet got wet. Lucky for me I had a change of shoes. While changing my shoes, I lost time and the next thing I know I was passed by a woman. This was very dishearting.We were told that if lightning struck they would hold up the race. Within 5-7 miles lightning and thunder were all around us. Unfortunately, I had already started out on the course and it downpoured on me. The course had a flowing river 4-6 inches deep. My feet sloshed thru, there was no reason to find wet ground as my feet were soaked. When I finished the lap, they told me to find shelter.I don't know how long we were waiting to start again, but the race clock continued on. Someone bellowed, "I don't know if stoping was a good thing." I agree with him. For some reason, I thought that I could run in those shoes. Within the next lap, I knew I had to put on the less soaked shoes as I only brought 2 pair. But I did bring enough socks. Again I was passed, the day just wasn't unfolding as well as I guess. My goal was to place in the top 5 and I wasn't sure where I was. I continued on like a hamster on that one mile loop. As with all races, there are highs and lows. Lucky for me, I didn't have many lows, I was focused on the events that lay ahead.I found a few people who were willing to share their stories and that made the time go by quicker. I was only 7 miles behind the winning lady and I ended up placing 6th in the women's division, not in the top five but I did make a go at it. I guess it's not too bad. But it was nice being the leader, even if for a little while. Maybe next time, I'll hold on to it.Until then we'll have to wait, train, and see. Thanks again for all your support.