Buck Moon 4-Miler

Although I’ve done a trail run before, I’ve never raced on the trails. Not sure what to expect, I got to South Chagrin Reservation way too early. But I got my bib, took some photos, and walked around the start area. 

The race started at 6:15 on the dot and as I expected, I was at the back of the initial pack of lead runners. I kept my breathing fairly controlled for a 4-miler, and we had a nice downhill for a fast start. As the pack thinned out, I was feeling comfortable passing runners until there were only two ahead of me at mile 1. 

We were warned about some puddles, but they are actually streams that you have to cross. The first few I took very slow, trying not to get wet. But then after the first couple, I decided to throw caution to the wind and just fly right through them. My new Nike ACG Pegasus Trails were getting broken in for real.

Around mile 1.5 I was able to pass the runner in second by keeping a steady pace up some tough hills. Then at the mile 2 turnaround I was right on the tail of the lead runner. I stayed behind him for a bit until he slowed down at one of the streams, perhaps at around 2.5 miles, so I took my chance to run right through it and push into the lead. 

I’ve never been in the lead during a race. Not even for a moment. It was surreal, but I didn’t expect it to last. The midpack runners coming towards me on the path were cheering me on, and it felt incredible. I took it in, and enjoyed it, knowing I still had some tough hills ahead of me until the finish line, and I never know how the runners behind me are holding up.

I resisted the urge to look behind me, but I didn’t hear anything so I felt like I had a comfortable lead. That was until I was heading up a particularly tough hill at mile 3.5. Because this was a switchback path, I was able to see my competition not too far behind me… but it wasn’t the lead runner I had passed earlier. I didn’t think I could push any harder but I tried anyway.

Eventually I could see the red LEDs of the finish line clock through the trees in the distance. I was carefully watching my footing, not wanting to let it all fall apart. I managed to cross the finish line and breaking the tape at 28:38.

The feeling was absolutely indescribable, but also my faculties were still just coming back to me. I never thought it could be me. I’m so incredibly proud of myself. 

I’m seeing the results of my consistent training. This is great motivation to keep it locked in for my fall marathon.

I've signed up for another race in the Full Moon Trail Race series, and I hope I could do the full series in future years. Based on my experience with just the Buck Moon 4-Miler, these are unique challenges, well-organized, and a great way to explore a variety of natural spaces in Northeast Ohio.

NOTE: The initial race results had me in first overall, but because of the way these particular races are scored using age grading and net time, I later dropped down to second position. I've updated my ranking here. I'm proud of breaking the tape and hoping for a proper first place finish one of these days!