Shadow of the Giants
Katharine Haber

I just had a great "racing" experience this past weekend at the 14th annual Shadow of the Giants 50K race in Fish Camp, CA, my first ultramarathon. 
 
A low-key but well-run event with about 90 participants, the race includes two 11K loops of single track and stream crossings and a 28K loop of single track and dirt fire roads through the Sierra National Forest, just outside of Yosemite National Park. 
 
Despite temps that reached the 80s by midday, most of the course was shady and cool. The elevation was 5,000 ft. at the start and rose to 6,500 ft. at the highest point, putting an extra strain on the lungs of those of us who live and train in oxygen-rich SB. Total elevation gain for the course was about 3,100 ft. and I quickly took the advice of many of the seasoned runners who chose to hike the uphills.
 
I went into the race with modest goals--completing the first 22K by the 3-hour cutoff point and the 50K (which many people reported measured closer to 33 miles than 31.2) in under 8 hours. If I could do all of this without requiring medical attention I would claim success. Sustained by several GUs, a lot of water, dozens of Saltines at the aid stations (aid was offered seven times throughout the race), and a dry pair of socks at the end of the first 22K, I was able to complete the first 22K in about 2:50 and the whole race feeling great--no lie--in just under 7 hours (6:57). I did take one minor spill, however, during a one-mile loop (miles 22 to 23) through a beautiful grove of 2,700-year-old Sequoias. Next time maybe I'll walk while I'm sightseeing!
 
Trying to stick to the schedule of our 13-month-old son, we did not partake of the pre-race meal held Friday night at the Green Meadows Outdoor School, where some runners stayed the night in dormitory-style bunks. But we did manage to rally ourselves on Saturday evening for the post-race BBQ on the lawn of the historic Wawona Hotel, where we drank beer and comiserated with other runners and their families as the sun set--a perfect ending to a long, but beautiful day.
 
I find that it is such a boost for my spirit (and for my running) to try something new and test myself in a different way. There is nothing like the excitement that comes from the unknown of doing something for the first time. I would recommend the Shadow of the Giants to anyone interested in experiencing all that and more in a great first 50K!