Aspen, CO: September 24th, 25th.
This was (my) second annual trip for the Golden Leaf Half Marathon that goes from Snowmass village to Aspen via the Governor trail. Having done this last year I knew what to expect this year, especially at the start, which happens I think, to be the hardest mile and a half of any race I’ve ever done. Simply because they send one straight up and it’s at elevation. So, when the gun went off, I let everyone else red line it this year and took my time as this time around, I came to run and not race.
After making it to the “top” the course then takes one on a roller coaster ride to Aspen via some very technical downhill filled with plenty of rocks and roots for those that have the misfortune of tripping! And believe me, I saw and heard enough myself out there as well as coming close a few times. I ran with a few groups this year which made it nicer. Again, having no expectations this year, or any particular time till I got about a mile from the end and thought at least it would be nice to try and break two hours as in last year, but, when I crested the hill leading into the finish line and saw 1:59: and change, there was no way. Not this time around. Oh well, it was still good enough for 3rd in age group. Next year, need to move up a spot though.
After a quick jersey purchase (ouch!) in Aspen, it was back to Glenwood some SUP’ing. Had always wanted to do this and to do it on a lake and not on a river but…such is life. Heck, once one gets the hang of it maybe a little easier on a river as it does the work for you!. It was a blast!! If I lived close enough to the river I can see adding “that” as another sport. But, knowing I’ve access to both river and board…
The following morning we, Abbey and I, headed up to Maroon Bells as they close the gate to cars (one would have to take a shuttle)starting at 8:30am. Leaving Glenwood at 6:30 I felt there would be no problem whatsoever. I mean, who gets up and hits the road that early but me? Guess, a lot of folks as they were cramming cars in the overflow parking lot as best as possible. I did get a spot so all good.
Needless to say, this is one popular spot this time of year! But as colorful as it was it looked like in a week all the leaves would be in full bloom. Don’t get me wrong, still gorgeous. Just a gorgeous was the drive over Independence pass, especially on the East side. Spectacular!
Abbey and the Bells...
SUP'ing on the Colorado River with Abbey to the rescue!
