- What-2010 Grand Canyon Rim to Rim to Rim Solo Run (South Rim to North Rim and Back)
- When-Saturday, July 17
- Distance-46 miles
- Goal-9 hours
A few weeks ago I decided to do the classic Grand Canyon Rim to Rim to Rim run again.
In September of 2008 I ran the 46 mile distance and added 14 miles of trail for a total of 60 miles in 12.5 hours. Of all the runs I have done, it was the most fulfilling and exciting one so far. Something about carrying everything you need while traversing through a massive landscape like that in one day is very awe-inspiring. No aid stations, no one to keep you company, just you, your fitness and your determination.
My goal this time is 9 hours. I was coming out of injuries in 2008 and had not been training as well as I am now. One of the big considerations is heat. It will be an average of 108 degrees down in the Canyon this time of year. However, the heat is dry and there are plenty of water sources available.
To make things complicated, I played Russian Roulette with my airline ticket and used Priceline. I will never do this again.
My ticket is from Austin arriving in Phoenix at 9pm on Friday the 16th. I then have to drive to the Canyon and will probably arrive around 2am. I plan on starting my run by 4am and hope to be out by 1-2pm. From there I have to drive back to Phoenix to catch a 7am flight back to Austin.
Someone recommended compression socks for the trip back, they said it will help with cramping etc. I have never tried this, but it seems like an excellent idea and I just bought some CWX socks.
Wish me luck, I am more worried about getting sleep than I am about completing the run.
