Bitten by the trail bug

So I've been a runner for about 9 years now and most of my running, races included, were done on the road; however, I've recently been exposed to and have fallen in love with trail running.  I've wanted to get into trail running for quite some time for many reasons.  One of the biggest reasons is that I aspire to be an ultra runner.  If you're unfamiliar with what an ultra runner is, it is someone who runs distances further than the 26.2 mile marathon.  Ultra marathons range in distances from 30k, 50k, 50 miles, 100 miles and even further and most of these races are done on trails.  Another reason I wanted to get into trail running is it makes you a stronger runner.  I'm not sure what exactly it is, maybe the terrain; regardless of what it is, I have been told by many that running trails makes you stronger and faster...and what runner wouldn't want that?  Lastly, to run trails and be an ultra runner would mean pushing far beyond my comfort zone.  It will test me both physically, emotionally, and mentally.

About five months ago my family and I moved to Orange County and to my delight, we live right by some beautiful and beginner friendly trails.  At 2 weeks post baby I was not allowed to run just yet  so I hiked the trails just behind my apartments.  Gradually I started to jog them and at 5 weeks post baby I felt good enough to run.  I fell in love with the trails immediately.  I loved the challenging up hills and the feel of the dirt beneath my feet...which was much softer than asphalt I must say.  I gradually built up my miles and so far, my furthest trail run has been 7 miles.  I also did a super fun 5 mile trail race with Renegade Racing.

Over the summer, Renegade Racing does a trail race series that consists of 3 races-one in June, July and the last in August and all races are approximately 5 miles long.  Unfortunately due to scheduling conflicts, I was only able to do the last one.  It's a really great race.  The course is beautiful...and challenging and the thing I enjoyed most was the after race festivities.  There is a bbq, raffles, and the whole thing is at the park so you can bring a blanket, have your bbq and chat with your fellow running friends.

Fought hard up a very large hill to earn this view.

INKnBURN ambassador love.

Renegade Racing does some really great races and I've participated in quite few, but I have to say that this was my favorite.  I will be back next summer to complete all three trail races in the series.  This year, you got a special medal for doing all three and what runner doesn't love bling, right?

I still have a lot to learn in regards to trail running and eventually getting to my goal of being an ultra runner, but I think I'm on the right path.  For now, I will continue to build mileage, ask advise from those much more experienced than me and run on!  By the way, if you're wondering about my running streak, it's still going strong and I am closely approaching 50 days! More to come on that, but for now, take care and as always...Run Happy!