This summer, I ran several times in Cloudcroft, NM including the 53K trail race. The heat was unbearable in El Paso, TX this year, so I went up to the Sacramento Mountains in New Mexico to camp, train and relax in the Lincoln National Forest. The elevation is between 8-9 thousand feet and can be 40 degrees cooler than on the desert floor.
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| Elk |
I did a 25 mile training run in June on some parts of the race course which is mostly on the Rim trail. I combined the Rim trail and Westside Rd (Forest Rd 90) by descending Heart Attack Canyon (T235) and ascending Alamo Peak Trail (T109) to simulate the steep climb that I would experience on race day.
I finished the race in 9:54 this year, almost 30 minutes slower than last. This year was hot and sunny compared to years past and the ascent on Alamo Peak is very exposed to the sun. I struggled on the climb and had doubts about finishing, but finally made it to the top. After a few slices of watermelon, I was good to go and was able to make the last 13 miles back to town. If you want more info on this race read my post: Cloudcroft 2022 or: Cloudcroft 2021
Here are some pictures I took this summer while running, hiking and camping with the family.
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| View from Westside Rd |
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| Horned lizard |
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| Heart Attack Canyon Trail |
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| "Horned toad" |
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| Wild roses |
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| Alamo Peak |
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| Gnarly part of Alamo Peak Trail |
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| Sleepy Grass Campground visitors |
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