Talent's Todd Ragsdale and Central Point's Neil Olsen stepped into a realm of running that they had never experienced before. The two travelled to the desert southwest for the Javelina Jundred 100 Mile Trail Run. Set in the mountains northeast of Phoenix, Arizona, the course rolls along a path that passes through classic Sonoran Desert environs. Saguaro cactus, cholla, prickly pear and mesquite trees surround the runners as they wind their way around the multiple loop course. Todd and Neil both battled knee issues and mid-80 degree heat all day. Neither completed the 100 mile distance, but did, however, finish the 100 kilometer run. They came away with lessons learned and hard taught memories. They will, no doubt, be back soon to try the 100-mile distance once again.
Todd Ragsdale, dressed-up for the 100-miler's Halloween motif.
Neil Olsen, running in the desert's morning light.
2 comments:
Well put. That's a long time to be moving forward. Todd and I had hoped for better, but were happy with what we experienced.
Another local, Peter Fish, finished 100k (with Tom Pelsor pacing him)
Todd - I was bummed to see you had to drop, as you had run such a smart race early and had moved up through the field so impressively. Nice work. Hope to see you at another 100 next year, puttin' the hurt on the field.
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