Rock/Creek River Gorge Race 10.2

The morning started out pretty brisk at 37 degrees, but the skies were blue and the sun was rising. The cold didn't seen to deter anyone. In fact, parking extended quite a ways down the Prentice Cooper Access road as turnout pushed almost to 400 runners. The trails were beautiful this morning - clean and clear.

At 8:30am the 10.2 mile race began. There were the usual milers, but in a way that's just smart. Once one gets on the single track it can be troublesome to pass. This year with the rain the previous days there were about 7 stream crossings, but not too much mud and slipping about. I started in about 5th and moved up over the first 2.5 miles to first. A fellow named Shimpff from Nashville ran hard with me for about 40+ min. He had me running scared for a while. I told him we should shoot for the course record. After easing my pace at 34 minutes to about 44 minutes to regain some strength for the end, I blasted the last 4 miles and ended up winning by 2.5 minutes with the course record: 1:12:31 (on my watch).

My friends Mike and Stephen were there running. Jan got 2nd overall woman. The Rock/Creek Race Team represented quite strongly today.

400 runners for the 6.5 and 10.2 mile races.

I was very pleased with this race.

Thank You Rock/Creek!!!!!!!!!