The cruxTony Grove (mile 50+) and the cold high ridges
Course DNA
The Course
Autumn mud. Aspen leaves. Rolling ridges from Logan toward Fish Haven. Tony Grove is a long grind into high-country pines after mile 50. Night. Trails slick with mud, wet leaves, and early snow. Temple Fork. Low near 4,803 feet. High near 9,055. Trail 80 percent, jeep 15, paved 5. Logan River and Beaver Creek mark early and mid course before the cold ridges take over.
The Work
Day to night swings hammer thermoregulation. Micro-eccentric load on the quads from rolling ridges. Train cold-weather runs. Back-to-back mountain hiking. Leg strength for the downhills when the temperature falls off a cliff after dark.
Kit
Packable windproof jacket. Windproof gloves with touch screens. You need the watch without bare hands. Shoes that grip slick mud and wet leaves. Insulated headwear for the ridges.
Race Day
Dress for the high ridges. Indian Summer days. Sub-freezing nights. Conservative climbing. Run the rolling ridges. Tony Grove hits at night. Crew at Tony Grove and Temple Fork. Hot water for broth and tea. Dry socks and shoes. Keep it warm. Keep it short.