Colleen Powell

Race report

I had forgotten how dusty the first part of this course can get during summer. By the time the single track wound up the hill, I was huffing and puffing like I had asthma. I even walked a bit on the second lap. Couldn't wait to get home and shower! Plus, this was the first race where I came across poor sportsmanship. Twice, I was navigating a tricky narrow area and almost got shoved in the bushes by someone who felt that a trinket was more important than a human being. This was not my first race, but I'm unlikely to sign up next time if this is the sort of people I'll be running with. Disappointed all around. Didn't stay for the raffle.

Race report

Poor start. Perhaps a reflection of the runs I've skipped due to the hot weather. I wasn't even half way to the turn around near the drinking fountain when I began to consider a DNF. I've never had a DNF. By the time I reached the left turn into the woods I was feeling better. I felt pretty strong at the end, even though there wasn't anyone near me to compete with. The course is nice.

Race report

I was worried about the distance so chose a super conservative pace. Felt good the whole way. Probably could have run the ten mile at that pace. Won candy in the raffle afterward.

Race report

What a huge turnout! It felt great to be running in the woods again.

Race report

I did so much better than expected in this one! I was new to this trail system and it reminded me of my favorites in Anacortes. The air was thick with cottonwood tufts and bugs, but I had a great time anyway. I certainly got a workout. Super cool that the first and third finishers were just kids. When they're famous I can say I used to race with them!

Race report

First race in years. It felt good to be back out on the trails, but it was a lot of work. I was surprised to finish in my usual spot of dead center, having been away from running for so long. Trail conditions were perfect, although it was a little warm for my taste. Rain threatened, but held off during the run itself.

Race report

Brutal hill, but I was able to run up most of it. Was hoping for top 10 finish, but got passed at the very end - knocked out to 11th. Still better than my Redmond and Carkeek finishes, so not really much to complain about. One race left in the series.

Race report

Hard race for me. I think my legs were still tired from STP. Pleasantly surprised at my 10th place finish! That should do wonders for my series standing. This course was changed a little from the usual. They replaced the grassy (muddy) patch with a parking lot out and back start. Probably a good idea overall, but you do have to cross a road to get to the trail. Kinda weird.

Race report

Dusting off the legs after a long winter's nap. It was a good time!