Thursday, January 5, 2012

50K at the Annapurna100

Sunrise over Annapurna IV and II from Pokhara

Last Sunday I ran the Annapurna 50K. Thanks to Runners High, Asha, and numerous supporters: friends, family, and strangers, I was able to complete the entire course, injury free, and in good spirits (well, except for one section). It took a little over 12 hours. According to published GPS data on the race website, this year’s 50K course involved over 8000ft of cumulative elevation gain on terrain that ranged from gentle asphalted road, to steep, rocky trails made slippery by an incessant unseasonal drizzle. Here's a brief account of the race and my experience, made special by my parents, who braving the cold, were waiting for us at the finish line.