See ya later, 2019.
What will the new year bring? If you’re like 99 per cent of the population, you have taken stock of the last year and possibly set new intentions for the next 12 months.
I have to tell you. I am feeling pretty good about 2019. But it took some time for me to reach that conclusion. When I re-read my obligatory-intention setting first post of January 2019 – 2019: Less races, more adventures, I realize I didn’t do so bad running or adventure wise.
Just about every weekend I was in the mountains. I put a lot of kilometres on my new Qashqai. I explored new trails and mountains. This is easy to do when you live in Calgary. We’re so luck to live so close. Some of my favourite hikes/runs/trips were camping in Lake O’Hara, Cory/Edith Pass and Glacier National Park in Montana.
There were great solo adventures and a few with friends. I really can’t complain about the time I spend in the mountains. There’s so many places I want to see but I think I haven’t gotten a good start. So many mountains, so little time.
A race or two in 2019
I had fun running the Cactus Coulee as part of a two-person team with Ben in June. It was so bloody hot. I was SO HAPPY that I did not run the 40K. For the second year, I went to Fernie for the Elk Valley Ultra. I love the variety in this race. It’s freaking challenging but I loved it.
Once again I was back in the coulees for the Lost Soul Ultra. I don’t know what it is about this race – I just can’t stay away.
I had to stop my 100K dreams – again because of a stupid broken eye vessel. I am not going to say 100K out loud this year so many that will rid the bad luck I have had with getting the starting line.
Run steep, get high
My 2019 highlight, however, was reaching 61,931 metres (according to Strava). One of my goals for the year was to improve my climbing and get some serious elevation. I’m pretty happy with my results. I was sidelined for a few months because of my eye injury so I know I can get much higher. I think this was the most elevation that I have ever got in a year.
So as I reflect on 2019, I feel pretty good. I can’t wait to see what 2020 will bring.
How was your 2019? What were your favourite adventures, races? I would love to hear from you.