This was the first race that I ever did, which I didn’t not train for. I would describe it at 150% effort for me, as running on uneven terrain with legs and sneakers it’s almost impossible for a double BK, in addition with my knee’s congenitally developed, meaning there are not as strong as a fully developed knee’s.

At first I thought it would be easy paced with breaks in between to navigate and relax, I quickly realized after we got into the Canoe that it wasn’t going to be that way at all.

Paddling was a challenge, being an arm amputee, I couldn’t hold the paddle properly, and get a symmetrical pull. I quickly adapted, relying on my left arm, back, shoulders, to do most of the work. Thank God Ron is a strong Paddler; he definitely made up for the lack of my power.
Already hurting, the run back to the bike, took everything out of me to get my feet moving through the uneven loose terrain. Running with prosthetic’s, and sneakers feels like your running in sand, with ankle weights. I had to stop once to let the sweat out of my liners. (1 min there)

Finally making it to the bike, I was relieved I didn’t have to run anymore.

Trail riding was very fun! I’ve never did it before until that day. It was challenging for me, trying to stabilize the bike with one arm. I think I did pretty well trying to hold as much speed as I could, but with the expense of the extra strain on my back, from being uneven on the handle bars.
I wanted to stop to take a break, but I knew Ron was pushing hard, and I couldn’t let him down.

Finally finishing the bike, I wasn’t looking forward to trekking. At this point everything hurt, and I was dehydrated. But like everything I encounter, there is no quitting…not ever, give it a shot or die trying.

Ron checked us in, while I tried to compose myself in transition.

Started out on our run, I was pleased that it was on paved roads for the moment, cause soon after I had to stop to dump more sweat out my liner (1 min).

Trekking was fun, especially when walking, I knew I could handle that somewhat negotiating the terrain. Running was horrible, the legs sucked in that element, and they are just not built for this type of terrain. Ron and I were at the brink of the threshold. Thank God he was there coaching me through. We’ve came so far, we couldn’t give up now.

Pushing through the terrain, I ended up pulling a hamstring, but managed to keep running to finally clear all checkpoints.

Through out the entire race, I was making mental notes on the gear that I would need to properly do these races safely and efficiently. The 2 min that we lost, I plan to make up with the right setup, at the next race. I’m well underway playing mad scientist at home developing the stuff that I need, in order to get involved in longer more challenging races.

In all I had a great time, I love battling against all odds. It’s when I’m under pressure I perform the best, learn about myself and what I am capable of doing. In that process I meet/make great friendships, and lead the way for other amputee’s and people to get out and try something amazing!

Ron and I will be back… and I promise… we will have a top 5 Finish!