We hit the road on Wednesday at 1:00 pm. Ken was lucky enough to be riding with Katie and me. Kya originally was going to join us, but at the last minute we decided to board her. We missed her, but the whole race was pretty stressful and having a dog with us would have made it more so.
We arrived to our condo in Vail at 10:30 pm on Wednesday. We called it an early night, anxiously awaiting our adventures the next day.
We woke up on Thursday to crisp mountain air! After running a few errands, we went for a hike on the trails above our condo. We figured a short, six mile hike would be just what all of us needed to get acclimated to the elevation.
Ken hiking through the aspens. I can only imagine how gorgeous this is in September when the aspens are golden.
We hiked three miles to a creek and found spot to hang our hammocks and enjoy some snacks and wine.
Ken being daring with his hammock location
Could it be anymore obviously that we shop at the same place?!?! We love Lucy! P.S. This was not planned at all. If only Ken had a pair...
More aspen groves
I loved the view of the windy river. The clouds started to move in for an afternoon shower.
Ken loved this quick little hike
Looking back across the lake towards Piney River Ranch
I had a great time with my people
We stopped off at Vail Village for a glass of wine while we were waiting on Abby and Heidi to arrive from Kansas City. I was so grateful that I was going to have so many people with me for this adventure!
Abby and Heidi had rental car issues, and it took two and a half hours to get a rental car. Yes, they had a reservation. I guess it was college move in weekend around Colorado, which caused a lot of issues. After they arrived, we made some race plans and enjoyed some dinner before calling it an early night.
We woke up on Friday and drove to Leadville for packet pick up and the race meeting. It felt odd being in Leadville and looking at the mountains where I would be running the next day.
Checked in and ready to roll!
The packet pick up at the race headquarters was crowded and kind of a waste. I think it should be included at the high school where the race meeting is with the other vendors. I know the race series wants people to buy their merchandise, but they can sell it at the expo where there is more room. The race instructions made it sound like the high school was just around the corner. In reality, it was about a mile walk. Not an issue for us, but could be for people with children or the elderly.
I was heading straight toward the sparkling energy drinks.
The pre-race meeting. We all really enjoyed listening to Ken, the founder of the Leadville 100. Seriously, my Ken cannot stop quoting Ken.
My race crew! They all gave up their free time to help a girl out. Katie, Abby, and Heidi all had children starting school the day before and did not hesitate to come to Colorado. I am so grateful for wonderful friends!
We stopped of at Pb Brewing Co for lunch and a beer and decided to drive around to find the different aid stations so the crew would know where to meet me. We also got a peek at some of the course.
After the Leadville tour was over, we ventured over to Lionshead in Vail for a pizza dinner.
Cheers! You have to love the party pooper with the water glass...
Looking back at Lionshead, which is now our favorite spot in Vail.
When you know for certain you are tall enough! This never happens.
We spent the rest of the night making sure we were organized for the next morning and went to bed early for our 2:00 am wake up call. To say I was starting to get nervous would be an understatement!
