Moab Marathon - 1 April 2006

Moab Marathon, Moab, UT
46th Marathon
31st State
4/1/2006
? Place
3:50:45
The Moab Marathon runs from Dead Horse State Park at an elevation on 5950 feet and finishes outside Moab at an elevation of 4400 feet. This sounds like it should be a fast marathon. However, the first 8 miles climb to 6200 feet and there is a 8% grade downhill from miles 18-20 that tear your quads to pieces. However, the course is beautiful! There are great views of the La Sal Mountains the entire trip. I went into the race planning to run with my dad, but chose to run on my own. I had been having some issues with a new onset of asthma, so I was out of shape. Needless to say, I took it easy and had no problems with my breathing! But, my quads didn't like the downhill from 18-20 and miles 22 to the end were very painful. All in all, this was a very good marathon and I would recommend it to anyone who is a good downhill runner looking for beautiful race.