We had a fantastic day at the Mt. Greylock Trail Race. This race is a Father’s Day tradition for our family. Debbie has run it 12 times in a row and I’ve done it eight of the last 12 years. Debbie is only one week removed from running the Laurel Highlands Ultra, so she didn’t have any pressure to run fast. She cruised to a third place finish amongst the women in a time that was more than 14 hours slower than last week’s race. I don’t know how she does it! Greylock is one streak she doesn’t want to give up. She had one minor spill. She doesn’t have any big races until August, so I’m sure she is welcoming the break. She will focus on training.
I had a really good run. I toured the rugged 13.6+/- loop in 1:58:46, which is more than eight minutes faster than my previous best on the course. I was pleased with the initial three-mile ascent to the summit of Massachusetts’ highest peak. It took me just under 38 minutes and I didn’t walk at all. I knew that I had to set the tone for my race on the climb because I always struggle on the long 10+ mile gradual descent.
My GPS data has a good profile of the course. I was happy that I was able to get my heart rate up and hold hit there because I had a couple of training triathlons earlier this week that I didn’t hold back at. This has been a good stretch for me.
The Western Massachusetts Athletic Club (WMAC) had an incredible turnout. The picture perfect weather played a role. The short course 5K was practically overrun with participants. It was nice to see so many newbie trail runners enjoying the trails. The long course race was like a reunion with all kinds of New England trail runners showing up to test their legs on “Moby Dick.” The first woman was Amy Nolan in 2:07:07. 2nd was Beth Lines 2:10:55 and third was Debbie Livingston in 2:11:48. The first man was Greg Hammett in 1:42:15. He was followed by Kent Lemme in 1:49:20 and Rob Hult in 1:50:56.
After yesterday’s YPO event at Zoar Outdoor in Charlemont, our family camped at Savoy Mountain State Forest so we only had a short commute to the race this morning. Greylock is one of those classic events. If we can make it in 2012, we will be there.
Race Results (will be posted when available)
You and Deb are crazy!! < 2hrs??? It took me an hour to get up, and another 2+ to get down! And I'm not ashamed to admit that I walked a bunch. But you're right-it is a great day and the WMAC people are very welcoming and hospitable. I hope to get out to a couple more of their events this year.