Now, two weeks after that memorable moment I once again found myself toeing the starting line, only this time I was at the Mid-Columbia Challenge, a 5k go-for-broke event, which takes the racers over one of the most unique race environments ever, the Wanapum Dam.
Hours of event set-up had finally transpired into 189 racers rushing through the starting gate and up the dam. June 30, is one of the best times to be crossing the Wanapum Dam, as the run-off from snowmelt has swelled the Columbia River to near-record proportions, bringing spray and roaring echos over the dam deck. It also meant that I was weaving back and forth across the dam deck to see the massive amounts of water rushing off the dam only feet below me (think standing on TOP of Niagara Falls; pretty awesome power).
The Columbia River gorge lived up to its reputation and produced a monster headwind, which seemed to change directions just in time for use to double-back at the 1.5 mile turn-around. Regardless, my good friend and co-worker Scotty managed to buck the wind blues and steam ahead, finishing second in 20 minutes 22 sec., while I trudged in at 21 mins. 34 sec., to take third place.
If you love competition and preparing yourself for the mountains is your goal you should really think about running races. I am a firm believer in choosing a race with a unique venue or one that will challenge you physically and mentally. The end result is one heckva workout where you've left nothing on the table and you'll be one step closer to being in tip-top shape for Washington's archery season!
