Monday, June 18, 2012

5 Ragnar Commandments

I just completed my 5th Ragnar!  How nuts is that?!  Just two years ago the Wasatch Back was my first race EVER.  My how times have changed!  For me, I feel like the Wasatch Back is the most challenging race that I participate in.  I love the hills, I love the difficulty of running in the elements, and I love doing it with great friends by my side.

Since this is my 5th Ragnar, I will share my 5 Ragnar Commandments:

1.  Thou Shalt Pack Light!  I sleep in my running clothes, and I take advantage of Ziploc bags.  However, you shouldn't follow my example of forgetting to pack a jacket.


2.  Thou Shalt Run Happy!  Smiles are contagious.  Feeling tired?  Smile.  Feeling sore?  Smile.  Feeling excited out of your mind?  SMILE!
3.  Thou Shalt Run Hard.  It's probably going to be hot on your longest leg with the biggest hill you've ever had to climb, so run hard.  You'll be proud of yourself if you do.
4.  Thou Shalt Get Out of the Car!  Everyone is tired, everyone would prefer to sit in the car and relax, but everyone loves a good cheerleader.  Everyone NEEDS a good cheerleader.  My own personal rule is that every time we stop to support a runner, I always get out of the van.  Always!  This is my favorite of all the commandments.  It makes you the best teammate, and your legs will thank you for allowing them to stretch and move.

5.  Thou Shalt Rock the Night Leg.  I didn't get any night pictures this time, but the night legs are always the best.  Every time!  Maybe it's because it's finally cool out?  Rather than dread running at an obscene hour of the night, anticipate it!  I guarantee it will be your favorite run of the race.

 My team was T.H.E.  B.E.S.T.  So proud of each and every one of them.  We finished in 33:53:32, and we had fun in every single one of those seconds.

I pushed myself harder than usual on this Ragnar, and it was great fun.  I'm way sore today- my quads and calves are both shredded.  I'm so happy with how I was able to run, and I can't wait to do one of these crazy relays all over again!


 What are your personal Ragnar Commandments?

12 comments:

Cory Reese said...

Your race report and pictures are beyond awesome! That scenery is nuts. Has Runners World called you yet to be a model of perfect running form?

I think it's so cool that everyone gets out to cheer for each other. That support and encouragement goes a long ways.

Hannah Neville McMillan said...

you are awesome!!!

Falon said...

I am a firm believer in #4! and #5! Cutest team ever! Great job!

Suz and Allan said...

This looks like so much fun and you guys look so happy in all the pictures!

sNick said...

Ohhhhh.... so jealous!

Heidi said...

AHHHH! I loved this race! And I read your post like three times because I want to remember every detail of the Ragnar. So much fun!

Amy @ Run Mom Run said...

You are seriously the coolest girl ever. I want to be like you! Or at least on a relay team with you! Maybe someday. I totally dig you.

(Is this comment borderline creepy?)

kalie said...

Spirit tunnels: my best memory from Wasatch Back last year. Looks like a terrific team and lots of fun to be had. I do maybe want to run Red Rock ... is there room in your van?

JanHunsaker said...

Truly inspirational!!!!!!

Christina @ The Athletarian said...

I LOVE YOUR SOCKS! This seriously looks like so much fun! I read Rachelle's recap too and got so jealous that I don't live in the US (Utah in particular ;)). So happy you had an amazing time. Your pictures are great! You all look like pros (probably because you ARE).

Isela said...

Fun :)!!! Loving the socks!

If you need a couple of gals for Red Rock Zion, let me know :).

Josh said...

Awesome race report. It inspires me! I just signed up for next year's Wasatch Back. This will be my first RAGNAR. These pictures made me EVEN more excited to run. Why does it have to be a year away?