Castlewood 8 Hour Adventure Race

I have spent the last week with a really nasty cold. It was so bad that I had to call in sick on Friday. I had planned on doing the Tecumseh Trail Marathon this Saturday, but instead went to St. Louis to do an adventure race, the Castelwood 8 hour, presented by Bonk Hard Racing. I had a feeling it was going to be a stretch since we move fast and I was only about 80% of my usual self. I took a risk and headed to the race, knowing I would be lucky if I felt better on Saturday. I did feel better, it was about twice as hard to race as normal but I managed and don't think I slowed us down to much. My heart rate was elevated and I was just going through the motions.
I was pleased with the race and I accomplished quite a bit. First, I was fairly happy with my paddling. I am not use to canoe paddles, but I managed and we had a fairly good paddle split. I actually kind of liked them better than the kayak paddles we usually race with. I was really proficient with my mountain biking skills and I feel like I'm making major improvements with each race. I have an issue with my new mountain biking shoes not clipping in like they should, but for the most part...things went smoothly. So, I'll add that to my list of things to get fixed this winter.
I had my McDonald's post race, and damn was it good. The only time McDonald's tastes good to me is after an adventure race or a long triathlon.
There aren't any big races planned for the rest of December, but I have a lot of running races planned to keep me in shape. I start working with a new coach next Monday and I am looking forward to it! I will be a busy girl in 2009, but that's the way it goes!
We are finalizing the 2009 schedule and it's looking awesome. It will be a great year!