5/13/06 Malibu Creek Trail Challenge - 14 Miles

Malibu in May usually gives me nightmares. Visions of the four mile uphill agony called "Bulldog" is enough to seek out the nearest confessional, even if you're not religious. "Forgive me Father, for I have sinned and I'll do anything, I beg you, just PLEASE don't make me run up Bulldog!" I'm telling you, if Hell was on top of a hill, this would be that hill. This year, Mother Nature or God or someone actually took a little pity on the runners because the weather was Heaven sent: "May Gray" overcast skies and a cool breeze with temperatures in the mid fifties. Now that the race is part of a series sponsored by Xterra, the course markings were excellent. The thick fog was quite a blessing since it prevented me from being able to see just how steep some of the hills were. The conditions allowed the top female finisher to break two hours, possibly a new course record. (Will check when the race website is updated.) So thanks to the race organizers for working a weather miracle and please pray for another cool day at Bishop on May 20th.

Xterra Scramble SoCal Trail Series Results



And we're off... If it looks like we're slow, it's because we know what's coming.



Diana is amused as Greg pours himself a drink, or two.




2:10:42, 3rd place in division and six minutes faster than last year.



Blisters + Safety Pin = Fun!


This woman is older and faster than you think.

Congrats on 2nd place in your division Kathy!



Keith made the hill look easy.



Lisa and I were thrilled to make it back to the car.