I’ve been part of the ultrarunning game for over seven years now, and I’m reluctant to admit that I haven’t ever paced anyone.  What’s up with that?!?  I was finally going to get my chance at the North Fork 50 mile race this weekend.

My original plan was to get up at 04:00 and catch the start of the race.  That didn’t work due to a sick kiddo, but I was able to make it up to Pine Valley Ranch around 9:00 and seeing that I had my camera riding shotgun on the drive up I decided at the very last minute to carry it with me (DSLR w/70-200).

I jogged up the course in reverse, and was able to take shots of the 50k and 50 mile runners as they approached.  My goal was to get to the Meadows aid station around 2pm and wait to pick up my runner for the final 18 miles.

I had a great time seeing so many friends out there running, crewing, and volunteering.  It really made me happy to get a solid dose of the ultra vibe that I’ve been missing for a while.

Unfortunately, my runner missed the cutoff at that aid station.  Very bummed for him, but super happy that he gave it a shot.  It was the push I needed to get up there and be a part of the race.

I left that aid station a little after 4pm and made my way another 12 miles (26 total) back down to my car, hanging out and chatting at the aid stations along the way.

I’m posting some sample photos, the full gallery with free downloads for the runners is here:

http://www.coloradophotocompany.com/-/galleries/events/2014-north-fork

It was a great way to spend the day!