Ragnar Allens run and a botony lesson

Wasatch Back Ragnar Relay June 2009 #5
I was sucking down Hammer blueberry flavored gel and took several Spirilina before it was my turn to run. I was runner #5, and my turn had finally arrived. I saw Annie running towards me, her eyes focused on me as she slapped the baton on my wrist.

The sun was at high noon and it was getting warmer as I started running. I had about 8 miles and I was already feeling fatigued. I started running up a dirt road with a increaing incline. It was hot enough that I worried about heat stroke. I was keyed up for the first mile or two but I had to slow to a walk several times. I stopped at a creek and soaked my hat to help me cool down. Several support vehicles from other teams passed and asked if I was okay, if I was going to make it. I reassured them I was fine. After being passed like I was standing still over and over again by other runners, I found my pace and I started passing. I was alone for a few minutes and I wondered if there were any wildlife like big cats or bears around. I suppose having an encounter would certainly motivate me to run faster!

Steve drove by and asked if I needed anything. I gave my iPhone to Rena and she took a few pictures of me. They rushed off and said see you at the exchange point!

While I was running, Karli continued to struggle with an upset stomach. They found a place where she could relieve herself but it wasn't long until Karli was howling in pain. Rena and Annie went to her aid and found she had rubbed against something that irritated the skin. Steve offered to investigate but Karli objected. Soon Rena and Annie were asking other teams for help. A runner pointed out a plant nearby called Elephant Ear and suggested rubbing it on the affected areas to get relief. Karli rubbed the leaf on her skin and the burning subsided. We believe it was Stinging Nettle. The day just wasn't going well for Karli!

I was approaching another hill when I saw Annie and Rena coming out to meet me and run the last mile in with me. I was grateful for their support. Rena asked me how I was and I mentioned my calves were starting to cramp. They talked me through it for a few minutes and kept running until it passed. I felt a surge of energy and I started moving faster. I ran up that hill with a renewed vigor. I started passing runners right and left.

I saw Steve at the exchange point and slapped the baton on his wrist. I ran the hardest segment that I was assigned and came in with a better time than projected.

I finished that run with an endorphin rush. I was high for the next several hours. I talked to Sally as we were walking back to the truck. She congratulated me on a good run time.

I drove the truck over a rough stretch of road testing everyones ability to resist sea sickness. We caught up to Steve bounding down the hill like an antelope. That run cost Steve several of his toenails a few days later...
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