She said – June 30 trail run report

Duct Tape and Kind-Hearted Folks

So my question is: what do you carry in your hydration pack? I thought I had the basic necessities for our run over Black Mountain, but clearly I was not prepared in the “patch and repair” department.

Our day started great. We were greeted with sunshine as we gathered at Cleveland Dam parking lot. Many were eager to get going as it was already warm at 7:30.

Winding through the first section of the trail is always a treat. I love the new bridge (we used to cross over the creek by way of a very big tree!), and I enjoy how it follows a ravine. I was just getting into the grove when all of a sudden I felt a spray of water running down the back of my leg. I took my pack off and my water bag had a significant hole in the seam. All my fluid for the run was disappearing fast! As runner’s passed me on the trail, they offered to share their water with me. We also tried to repair it with a mighty band aid, but to no avail.

I was about to turn around and run along the highway back to Cleveland Dam, when Martin and his friend convinced me to take one of his hand held water bottles. I tried to say no, but he insisted. Thank you Martin! And the giving continued all the way up the mountain. Many kind people offered their drinks to me. I tried some great replacement drinks. So, thank you everyone who helped.

Francine asked me if I had any duct tape when she ran by. What a remarkable idea! So if anyone asks me what I carry in my hydration pack, I will now include duct tape! Thank you Francine!

The rest of the run went well. There was lots of mud in the crossover trail from Cypress downhill over to the cross-country section, but I suspect that it will dry up considerably with the warm days ahead. The snow is melting fast with just a few small patches left.

We have less than two weeks before our race. Remember to stay tuned to Facebook or the Knee Knacker website for any race information.

We have a very short run planned for July 7 (well, it will feel very short in comparison to the previous weeks!). We will be meeting at Panorama Park and carpooling to Lynn Canyon parking lot.

Have a wonderful week. Remember to eat well and stay hydrated.

Stay healthy,

Patricia