It has become a habit lately to float down the Colorado River… don’t worry, we use kayak’s… we go with a group of fun friends and always have a blast! Coincidentally in April there is also a 5k and half marathon the morning of the float; a perfect duo for this runner. Last year, I did the half marathon and was too exhausted to fight the abnormal 40-50 mph winds that faced us on the river, and bailed early. This year, I opted for the 5k and was much happier! The wind was almost non-existent and the river was flowing quickly, too. It was incredible; just sit back and relax… ahhhh…

Doesn’t get much better than this…

At the start of last year’s half marathon, I was all smiles and happiness. This was of course before I realized how great a toll the road would take on my legs and ankles.

2012 – Before cutting out dairy and practicing Chi Running (I was also waving to my photographer friend here…)

By the time I crossed the finish line, I was OVER IT.

I was toast.

You see, this “road” race as it is classified, is actually on a Forest Service road, so it’s all pebble, sand, and some jagged rocks. Despite keeping an easy pace during last year’s half, I was spent. (See above photo!) There really is no taking it easy on this course, because every step forward really takes you a quarter step back. I’m SO glad I switched to the 5k this year. I pushed hard knowing it was only for 3.1 miles, not 13.1. I ended up finishing 3rd woman overall (out of 58) and 8th runner overall (out of 94). Not too bad! (24:25, not my best that’s for sure – but don’t tell my nephew that, he and I have a competition at the end of Summer… a “race to the death” 5k! hahaha)

If you look carefully in the background of the photo below, you can see Mr. ZucchiniRunner (I’ve always wanted to say that!), as a blur in his blue top and gray shorts, about to beat his personal best for a 5k! Woo hoo!

2013 – After cutting out dairy, lots of gluten and practicing Chi Running

After the race we had some laughs, got our medals and got saddled up to float down river!

Dan (a.k.a Mr. ZucchiniRunner), me and our friend Amy. We all placed! Woo hoo!

The photos and captions really speak for themselves on this one. So I will let you view them and enjoy! (You can click on them to enlarge and see the full caption…)