SECOND ANNUAL GRAND CANYON FUN RUN

Heading down the South Kaibab Trail in the morning light

Nate

The bridge over the mighty Colorado

Where do I begin?

Mule train

I spent last Tuesday running the Grand Canyon from the South Rim to the North Rim and back again. I did this same run for the first last year, and this year was equally special. Last year there were, of course, more surprises, but this year still taught me a lot. Last year was more an external experience, by which I mean I was more focused on taking in the sights and sounds of the Canyon. This year was more internal. I was still taking in the beauty and grandeur of the place, but I was more aware of the emotions it stirred. I was more aware of the human impact over the years, how much blasting it took to force parts of those trails through the rocks, the old rusting phone line poles, how different it must have been. Many people think what I did to be difficult, but it would be exponentially harder if that trail was not maintained like a highway.
   It is hard to describe my thoughts during this trip. The distance was far less intimidating this time, but I think it hurt a bit more physically. My calves are still very sore, and my left hip was not cooperating in the final miles. It is always something. Some new obstacle to overcome, some new pain to endure. However it was never bad enough to want to stop. The predominant feeling during this run was that I am lucky. Lucky to have the ability to see this place in this way. Lucky to have discovered ultra running in the first place. The amazing weather, the good friends, Nate having an extra hat after I left mine at the campground, the list goes on and on. The pain I felt seemed distant, because at that moment I didn't want to be anywhere else, or doing anything else, besides running through that Canyon. Like the sign said: "WHY SUFFER?"