This long weekend was put to some good use by lots of mountain biking and trail running. I have logged around 60 miles of trail riding and about 15 miles of trail running. I am confident these longer rides and runs will help offset the altitude disadvantage at XTERRA Nationals. It's my new strategy since I have raced in Tahoe before. I have also increased my intensity. I've incorporated a lot of hills in my training sessions, something I will be familiar with when I ascend the tunnel creek trail in Tahoe. Those who don't know, at nationals when you are done with your cold but refreshing swim and head into T2 it is about 3 to 4 miles and 1200 feet of climbing before you get any relief. When you finally get to take a breather you get to enjoy the wonderful view of Lake Tahoe for about 4 miles before you have to ascend even more. Attached are some pictures of the trail cut into the rock face overlooking Lake Tahoe. The smaller lake is Marlet Lake where the other lung busting climb is.
