Dave's Race Experience - The C&O Canal

The C&O Canal has to be one of the most beautiful trails in the country. The Potomac River on the left and the landscape of rolling hills, cliffs, houses, fields (all depending on where you are) on the right. However, after 4 plus hours and 26 miles - it does get a little old and boring. To me, this was the transition part of the race. From feeling strong and energetic coming off the mountains - to spending time on the C&O Canal with similar sceneries and the same physical motions, tested my mind and body. I was fortunate to run into Jeff Hutman along the way. He lives right on the C&O Canal and was prepared to meet up with us along the route. He was stocked with goodies - Gatorade, Clif Bars, peanuts and M&M's. He asked me if I wanted anything. I was full of food, but lacking in conversation so I asked him to tell me a story (one gets quite desperate for something other than the shuffling of the feet or the continuous sound of my own breathe). We spent a few minutes together and after a few pictures, I was back on my own. I finished the grueling, relentless C&O canal with 42 miles under my belt. This is where I really hit the wall...