Ragnar Relay Recap

Leg #1

My first leg of the race was gorgeous. It was a flat 9.2 miles on the C&O tow path. It was an overcast and cool Friday morning, perfect running weather. Some leaves were already yellow and fewer were red. The trees formed a canopy over the path for me to run through. I felt blessed to witness this beauty.

I felt strong during this leg of the race and sprinted when I saw my teammates waiting for me at the exchange. I passed the wristband off to Mena. My longest leg of the race was done.

Leg #2

My second leg of the race was 4.8 miles on Friday night. I had to dress up like a car for safety. I wore a reflective vest, a red blinking light on my back, and a head lamp.

Marco, Steph's husband, was the pace setter. He biked by my side, prepared to give me my pace, mileage, or water. So nice. This leg of the race brought my fastest pace. I think I just wanted to get it over with. I'm not a fan of night running.

Leg #3

I was most nervous about my third leg, a hilly 8.9 miles on Saturday morning. I slept 3 hours the night before and 2 hours the night before that, but as I began to run, I felt energized. I watched the sun rise over farm country. It was so beautiful that all I could do was offer up gratitude to Heavenly Father for letting me be a part of it all.

Thoughts of Adam motivated me uphill. His uphill has been harder than mine has ever been. MacKenzie brought all of us white ribbons to tie around our wrists to remember him. I love that strong little boy, and I ran in part, for him.

My teammates met me at 4 miles and 7 miles to cheer me on and bring me water. I love my teammates so very much.

I handed off to Mena one last time and then I cried. I always cry after long races. I was so happy that I accomplished my 22.9 mile goal.

Running has been so good for me. Maybe I'll tell you all the reasons why someday. The Ragnar Relay was a special race. I don't know if I could do it every year, but I hope to do it again someday.