Leadville Trail Marathon

In some ways this marathon is tougher than Pikes Peak. You start at a higher elevation, you have to climb three peaks, there is very little shade and there was more snow. The trail varies from asphalt, to hard-packed dirt, mud, small rocks, large rocks, etc. A real challenge and but well organized.

It's usually in hindsight that you can fully assess an event like this one. If you're from the East Coast and want a marathon/ trail experience that will test you...this fits the bill. This surpassed my expectations as far as how difficult it was. I knew the altitude would be a factor, but I didn't think about heat or the full energy of the sun that high up. The last major climb through the parched woodlands was just brutal. I also expected the course to be mostly packed dirt. The loose cobblestone climbs and descents were legit and took me by surprise. If money and travel were not a factor I would do this one again and train COMPLETELY differently for it. If you're from the East Coast aim for doing as many multi hour runs on technical terrain as possible. I did most of my hill training on dirt roads and thought I was strong. I knew by mile 2 that it was going to be a long day...and it was. It was also an incredible experience.

This race is freaking amazing all the way around. The course, the organization, the volunteers, all of it. No they didn't give medals at the finish (though they decided to mail them our later). Really? Who cares? I can't believe someone would actually suggest these folks are 'unethical' for not giving out a medal. These folks put on a great race and I appreciate the effort!! Will be back for sure.