Unfinished Business

I guess you could say I have some unfinished business at Chuckanut this year. And that is the only reason I am doing it.  I know, it is a good race and it's more competitive than most 50k's in Washington, and it is relatively close to where I live....but... it is missing that je ne sais quoi.  I think I can put my finger on it: my favorite mountain races make it feel like you are running out in the middle of nowhere, challenge your endurance and mental focus while stunning you with the beauty of the surroundings.  Chucky has some sweet views from the ridge, but the first 6 and last 6 miles are on the interurban trail, a relatively flat and fast section (that's right it's not really flat, just a lot flatter than the rest of the race).

If I look at my overall place for Chuckanut last year, a relatively easy mountain race with little elevation change (I think it's in the 3500's), it it is my worst placement out of all my 9 ultra marathons last year.  In fact, although it is only 31 miles long, I ran faster per mile at my first 50 miler just one month after Chuckanut!  Ok, admittedly, Chucky was only my second ultra, and only my third long distance race ever (one marathon and one 50k previously).  In addition, I felt nauseous from about mile 10 to mile 22, and had to make a rather long pit stop (tmi, I know).

Last year's DSR representing from Whidbey Island

So this year, I hope to enjoy the ride a lot more!  Now that I have a few ultras under my belt, I can appreciate the flat and fast start and finish to Chucky.  At least it won't feel like the race is dragging on like some tough ultras.  See you in a few weeks!