Trail running race 3:55:59 [4] 25.0 km (9:26 / km) +1009m 7:51 / km
shoes: Salomon S-Lab Speedcross
Nimble Bear race in Kelowna.
A very challenging course, I think the toughest of Rene's race series.
The coach suggested a strategy for me to follow: take it super easy in the first third of the race, let people pass, that's including on the downhills. After the first aid station, pick up the pace, but not too much; save the legs for the last bit. Start racing after the 2nd aid station.
I followed the plan. We started with a long climb then a super fun and twisty downhill. I was very conservative. After the first aid station, there was a very steep climb. Luckily I used poles and climbed steadily up. Passed some people who were struggling there. Then there was another long downhill section to the 2nd aid station. Another long climb started from there, I kept an even pace, run as many uphill sections as I could. After reaching the top, it was downhill all the way to the finish. For some reason my watch missed 5km of the race, so I thought I had more running and climbing to do. If I knew it was so close, I would have pushed a little harder.
I am very pleased with the result though. I estimated to finish between 4-4.5hrs and I came ahead of the time.
I could have prepared a better nutrition plan (it's still a challenge for me). I felt I needed more salty snacks. I felt nauseated from all the sugary foods/liquids I had - lesson learned!
Super fun race, big group from Canmore - it was great cheering for each other at the finish line.