Another quick, solo trip on a weekend I happened to have off. Really liked the look of this race on the website – the 25th running of a women’s only trail race. I’ve been enjoying these smaller, trail races. The vibe is so different from the big road races. It feels less competitive, more friendly, more like a group of people who really enjoy running and want to go for a nice, challenging run together. This race did not disappoint.
I stayed right off the highway in Fairfax, VA. Not exactly the vegan food capital of the world. Ended up at a small chain restaurant and was impressed that they had a vegan section of the menu. It feels like the vegan movement has gained some serious traction.
Really low-key registration the morning of the race. All participants got to choose either a long sleeve tech shirt or a tank top. The male members of the Virginia Happy Trails Running Club serenaded us before we took off into the woods.
The course was gorgeous (and challenging – a bit of a hike-run) and the weather was perfect. Margaritas (including a salted rim) at mile 10 just added to the fun of the race. First time I’ve ever had a margarita during a race! Vegan smoothies at the finish line before heading back to the hotel for a quick shower and drive to the airport.
No medals at this race which was perfectly fine with me and went along with the no-frills aspect of the race. I made my own “medal” when I got home from a picture of the race shirt printed on a piece of cardstock.
11 down, 39 to go…
50 State Adventure 