by the time i reached halfway point i had to start walking (this was after i had set a good pace). i had the odd occasional bursts of energy flying past people, but by the end, my legs had become like lead and i was gasping for air.

i’m normally used to an 25-60 minute type running event and finding my rhythm. i had no such luxury in this event where the winning time is sub 5 minutes.

and in 8 minutes and 11 seconds it was all over. i had hoped for a sub 10 minute finish so i consider this a result. i tried to avoid dragging myself the stairs using the bannister, but having seen footage of the winner i now know this is acceptable in the sport of stair climbing! i was top 45% of the category which is a nice percentage to be in.

i was doubly pleased because i ended up raising over 200 pounds for shelter (they asked race entrants to raise at least 150 pounds). thank you to all my wonderful sponsors, you helped me stay true to my training and stopped me from giving up when it started to hurt a lot. did i meant it hurt a lot?

crazy event. mad props to alison for making the mistake of telling me about the event!