Ed and Rachel flew in from Washington DC and Laurie and Roy (Laurie, Ed and Rachel went to college together) flew in from Reno to run the NM half marathon. The day before the race we met in Albuquerque, and took it easy for the day, riding a tram up Sandia Peak, 10,000+ feet (3050 m). Taking a page from high alpine training manual, we went up to higher altitude to help them acclimatize to the somewhat rarified air at 5600 feet (1700 m). I know it kicked my ass when I got to NM in May, so I knew it would be hard for anyone flying in from sea level. At the peak, we did a mellow 3 mile walk with lot's of sweet vistas.
At the race, Rachel and Laurie sped off from the start and had good times. Ed and Brad ran together for a few miles, mocking each other, and entertaining those who were unable to run faster and get away from them. Ed took several minutes off the half he ran last month. Everyone is returning from some injury or another, and all finished unscathed (except Ed's ego), so that was great.
The view from Sandia peak was outstanding. If you find yourself in ABQ, ride the tram. And don't forget to chow on mas tamales at the Church St Cafe!
No comments:
Post a Comment