The Yakima Canyon River Run was most beautiful run I have done. Run along the Yakima Canyon River, the marathon offered wonderful scenery.

Many little extra's made the 3rd Annual YCRR a nice race -- A train whistle starts the race; First timers had a mark on the bibs to identify them; race pix were taken at mile 8 and ready at the finish; showers were available at the end.

This was my no means an easy race. The hills are staggering. The road is cambered and is tough on the legs. You end up running further then the 26.2, because you weave side to side in an attempt to get comfortable.

American Airlines had farked my plans to arrive early Friday afternoon, and I ended up into Ellensburg 9:30. This meant dinner late, and not enough sleep for my pre-race liking. Packet pickup was right by the hotel, and and easy. The President of the running club (Hard Core Runners) loaned me her knit hat (I had left mine at home).

The race, aside from the scenery, was un-spectacular for me. Early lower back pain made the later parts of the run tough. I bonked early again, though I was at 13.1 right at 2 hours, but I know it was going to be later. I had trouble catching my breath -- I suspected the altitude -- and by 20 I was taking longer and more frequent walk breaks. A dry cough and sore throat (probably SARS), rounded out the race ailments but none of the phantom pain issues arose.