Dances with Dirt Green Swamp Race Report

This race was held back in February in the Green Swamp of Florida. It started out an extremely cold (for Florida) day. It was below freezing when the first race started. There were a multitude of races - 50 mile, 50 K, Marathon, Half-Marathon, and 10k. The organizers are mostly from Michigan, and even though not from the area, they did an excellent job of it. The races are mostly trail races including through the Withlacoochee River using ropes to help transverse it. Depending on how wet or dry it is, more of it can be through water as well. This year it was mostly dry. If you like camping and running, this could be the race for you. There is a wonderful camp area. For the 50 milers, headlights are required because you are starting the race in the dark.

So you are probably wondering which one I ran. I ran, okay not ran, assisted in one of the aide stations. I'm not anywhere near able to complete these races YET. Maybe the 10k or Half-Marathon next February. I can feel water and gatorade cups quickly. I now know that really long distance runners like fig newtons, and boiled potatoes dipped in salt, among other things. They are so appreciate of the volunteers as well. It was a wonderful atmosphere to be around. I loved it. I'm debating on whether to compete (make that complete) a race next year, or volunteer again.

For those who aren't ready to do a race, volunteer at one. It's awesome.

PS The winner of the Ultra 50 mile average 9:07 miles, but some finishers were at 15 minutes miles. Gives me hope.