I told myself I’d just see how I felt that day and do my best to improve my previous time when I ran this same race in 2020. Apparently, I felt like suffering a bit.

For a refresher or for those of you not aware of what the Shakori 40 is, it’s a 40-mile race around the Shakori Hills Community Art Center. 10 laps of a 4-mile cross-country trail that weaves throughout the large wooded property. Repetitive but fun and engaging.

I ran The Final Countdown this year, and it was an awesome challenge. The Ultra Running Guys have created something special here, and I’m glad I got to experience it for myself.

“I can’t believe I’m doing this!” Callie exclaimed as we approached mile 2 of the Run The Quay 5K. It was her first race, and she was doing an amazing job, especially for a 6-year-old. But before we jump to the final mile of this experience, we should probably start from where it began.