Embarking on the Grasslands Trail Marathon at Lyndon B. Johnson National Grasslands was an adventure filled with challenges and unexpected turns amidst the breathtaking beauty of North Texas. Let's journey through the course, my race, and reflections on the experience. #GrasslandsMarathon #TrailRunning
The race unfolds on equestrian trails, weaving through the stunning landscapes of prairie lands, rolling hills, and pine-oak forests. With two loops—the white (11.5 miles) and blue (15 miles)—runners traverse a total of 26.5 miles, facing an overall gain of 1675 feet. The terrain, though mainly rolling, presents its own set of challenges with uneven trails marked by hoof prints and sandy patches. The race course's charm lies in its simplicity and the occasional encounter with local wildlife, adding a touch of excitement to the journey. 🐴🌳 #TrailRunnerLife #NatureLover
As I approached race day, I sensed that I wasn't quite at my peak. Tapering runs felt tougher than expected, and on the morning of the race, my energy levels were less than optimal. Nonetheless, I decided to embrace the challenge, trusting my instincts and running by feel. #TrustTheProcess #UltraMindset
The first loop, the white 11.5-mile stretch, went by swiftly. Despite not feeling my best, I pushed forward, completing it in just over 2 hours. However, as I embarked on the blue 15-mile loop, my energy dwindled, and occasional power hikes became necessary. It was clear that my goal of finishing in 4 hours and 30 minutes was slipping away. #PushThrough #NeverGiveUp
Then, just as I thought the challenges wouldn't get any tougher, nature threw in its own twist. Around mile 21, a thunderstorm rolled in, transforming the trails into a muddy, slippery mess. With each step becoming more arduous than the last, I was determined to keep moving forward. #Nature'sChallenge #EmbraceTheStruggle
Crossing the finish line, I was proud of my perseverance, despite not achieving my desired time. The experience served as a reminder that on race day, anything can happen, and sometimes, just finishing becomes the ultimate victory. #FinishStrong #UltraRunnerPride
Reflecting on my race and current training, I'm grateful for the progress I've made, even if this race didn't go as planned. Every setback is an opportunity for growth, and I'm determined to channel this experience into fuel for my future endeavors. #TrainingJourney #NeverStopImproving
Looking ahead, my focus shifts to The Coyote Trail Race 50k in April. With renewed determination, I set my sights on finishing under my goal time and breaking into the top 15 overall. The journey continues, and I'm ready to tackle whatever challenges come my way. 🐺💪 #NextChallenge #TrailRunnerGoals
Grasslands Trail Marathon Strava Activity
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