Run From the Ducks is a timed run. Unlike many other races, it does not have a set distance that you run, rather, you run for a set amount of time and see how far you can go. In this case, the clock was set for 8 hours. Yup, 8 hours. Imagine your entire workday (with no lunch break to speak of) RUNNING.
I want to give a special thanks to my support crew on this race: Travis, who ran for a couple hours with me to help keep the pace alive and offer some support and encouragement. Sam, who volunteered at the race and counted my laps. While a lot of his peers gave up and started goofing off, Sam stayed with it to make sure I got credit for each lap I did. I appreciate your dedication. And Mindi, the best crew chief I could ask for. Not only did she keep me hydrated, fed, motivated and focused, she changed my shoes and cared for 4 kids at the same time. If anyone deserves an award for this event, it is her. Thank you to everyone who made it possible; I couldn't have done it with out you.
 |
| Before the race with my favorite crew |
My goal for the race was to complete 40 miles. The furthest I had gone up to that point was about 33. To achieve 40 miles I would have to average 5 miles an hour, which isn't very fast, but I had to account for water breaks, bathroom break and time to eat, change shirts or shoes or whatever else might come up.
 |
| There were less than 20 runners that braved the rainy morning |
The course was a beautiful loop through Clark Gardens in Mineral Wells, TX. The loop was almost 1 mile long. Towards the end of the race it was very challenging not to stop every mile and take a rest. If it wasn't for my great crew and cheer squad I wouldn't have done nearly as well as I did.
 |
| Best cheer squad and crew ever. I couldn't have done it with out them. |
 |
| It rained almost ALL day. The kids were such troopers to stay and support me despite the elements. |
 |
| Water began to flood much of the trail after about 5 hours. I kept repeating, "just keep swimming, just keep swimming." |
 |
| This isn't sweat, this is liquid Awesome! |
 |
| Everyone got a workout |
 |
| I was reduced to walking several times over the eight hours. It was more important to keep moving forward than moving forward fast. Plus, walking gave me a chance to visit with some cool ultra runners. |
 |
| 40 miles. I made my goal in about 6 1/2 hours and was pretty wiped out. But the whole point wasn't to get just 40 miles...It was to see just how much I could get. After a brief rest and some coconut water, I was back out there. |
 |
| I did 4 laps in the last 30 minutes trying to hold a spot in the top 3. |
My final count was 47.5 miles in eight hours. My final 4 laps were enough to put me in third place overall.
