Notes
This was the benchmark TWOT loop. All of this trail is on the Grindstone 100 course and it is one of the most difficult sections. Experienced runners use it as a benchmark for their readiness for Grindstone. It is tough. This was my second attempt and first time finishing it so I am happy with that.
Learned that I need to find trail shoes that work for me. While I like the ground feel of the La Sportiva's my foot is literally breaking out of the toebox and big toe rubs bad against the front plastic toe guard. Hurts really bad especially going down hill. I need a wider shoe but something with good ground feel and traction which the Altras seem to be lacking.
As far as my fitness I'm in a good place, if I can continue to make steady improvements I'll be fine for Grindstone. I need to continue the strength work, especially quads. I could see them really getting hammered and maybe KO me at a longer distance. Plus I still am losing time on the downhill. Ran with Helen who is good on downhill and she dropped me big time.
Effort this was as difficult as most mountain 50Ks such as Promise Land or Terrapin Mountain. I figured this so I only did speed workout and one day early so legs would be fresh. I may run a few tomorrow to flush legs.