...were in Steamboat today, and my Lord, those guys are incredible. These guys ran a 2 loop, 7.57mi total race. It was about 1.3 miles up, and 2.1 down, or close to it. There were 2 spots on the US National Trail Running team up for grabs, and those spots ensure an opportunity to run in the World Championships in Switzerland later this year.
They are staying at the hotel, so I befriended 2 of them, Joesph Gray and the Legend, Simon Gutierrez. Joe is a badass, former Oklahoma State runner, and a super nice guy. I'm on my way to have a beer with him right now.
Simon took 2nd in the National Championship, and at age 41 is the most amazing runner I've ever seen. He is widely known as the best trail runner on the planet, check out his bio:
Career Highlights- Three-time member of Teva U.S. Mountain Running Team
- Top American Finisher (17th overall) at World Mountain Running Trophy Championships in Italy (2004)
- Winner Pikes Peak Ascent in Manitou Springs, CO (2003)
- Two-time Winner of Mt. Washington Road Race (2002, 2003)
- Three-time USA World Cross Country Team member (1984, 1985 junior team, 1989 senior team)
- 1983 High School Cross-Country All-American (finished 3rd at nationals)
- Age 17 road 10 km record holder (29:45)
PRs: 5 km: 14:21, 10 km: 29:17, HMar: 1:03:47, Mar: 2:18:36
Simon and Joe were running 4:00/mi on the downhills, just absolutely flying. What a cool experience to meet these guys. I wish I could have run with them, but I'm talking Joe into moving up here, so maybe someday. Just thought I'd share my awesome day!
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USA Trail National Championships...
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