Thunder Dragon Marathon

I've just enjoyed a fantastic week in the fascinating country of Bhutan.  We first hiked up to the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery.  That was very strenuous and I quickly reacted to the altitude by feeling dizzy and wondering if I would make it.  But I recovered after a short rest.

Next we trekked for 4 days from Paro to Thimphu.  That was a very tough trail that reached 14,000 feet.  The trail was very rough and steep.  Plus we had rain every day which turned the steep trails into creeks.  The days were long and hard but in spite of the rain and clouds, it was still very beautiful through amazing forests of rhododendrons.  They were of many different colors and all in bloom.  When the mountains peeked trough the clouds we got spectacular views. 

The high altitude trek was great preparation for the marathon which also was high altitude and consisted of various types of terrain.  It ranged from paved roads to narrow bridges, to steep gravel roads, to very unimproved trails.  We were blessed with good weather instead of the heavy rain that would have made parts of it nearly impassable.  The altitude ranged from 8000 feet to over 11,000.  I was feeling that altitude.  I finished but managed to come in last.  I really hate that!  I keep saying I want to speed up but it sure doesn't seem to be happening.  At least I was able to finish and wasn't snatched off the course by the race directors. 

Here I am with Cyrus, another runner from the Country Club.  We look so fresh and happy.  

I haven't seen my finish pictures yet but I suspect I don't look quite so alert!

But I am so happy to have made it through this very tough marathon, still standing.  It was a wonderful trip in every way.  

Twin Peaks One More Time

This is my last chance to hike on the weekend before I head to Bhutan for the trek and the marathon.  I met Diane again and this time we had time to go to the second bench instead of stopping halfway.  I really love this hike.  It's steep enough for a good workout but short enough that there is always time to get high enough for the great view of the lake. There is quite a change since last week. Now the lake is open and all of the ice is gone.  Spring must be here.  It was still pretty chilly and overcast but at least we didn't get rained on.

In a few days I'll be off to Bhutan for my next big adventure.

Twin Peaks Again

Met Diane again for another lovely trek up the Twin Peaks Trail.  It's the perfect location to be halfway between my house in Palmer and her house in Anchorage. Once again we didn't have time for the whole trail because of Diane's obligations.  But it was a great hike to the first bench.  The lake is still quite frozen.  I'm sure looking forward to summer when I can maybe get a chance to put my canoe in and paddle to the end of the lake.  I think the ice is getting a little thin for walking on the lake right now.