We are so incredibly lucky! Not only we live in a place surrounded by mountains, lakes and stunning outdoors, but we also have a local race company that puts together beautiful runs along the spectacular trails that surround Fresno.
Yesterday I participated in the Winchell Cove 10k/10mile Trail Run put together by San Joaquin 
Running (SJR) and the experience was semi-meditational. This was my first time participating in a trail race (besides obstacle course racing …but it is not the same) and I am kind of upset at myself for waiting so long to try one. I’ve mentioned before that I am not a natural runner and that several times a week I put in the miles, because it makes me a more rounded and better athlete, however 80% of the time I don’t really enjoy it. It might have been the clean air, the beautiful views, the friendly participants, and the changing scenery…who knows…. yesterday, out there in nature, I could’ve kept running forever! Instead of checking my Fitbit every 5 minutes to see “how much longer “and thinking about all the things I had to get done as soon as I got back home, my mind was clear, focusing on my footing, the pretty trees, the changing terrain, nature and being outside.
The Winchell Cove 10k was perfect for a first time trail runner like me: it had minimal elevation change, stunning views from the single track Millerton Lake trail and was very close to home 🙂 (which meant I didn’t have to get up at a crazy hour whoot whoot!) The day of the race, I arrived to a super cool atmosphere and I ran into a lot of people that I’ve meet thru the different local running clubs. It felt like a big friendly group run (I also probably felt all friendly cause I wasn’t there to beat anyone anyway LOL). On top of all this awesomeness, San Joaquin Running gave all race participants some pretty sweet swag: a great looking long sleeve race shirt, a cool finisher’s coaster and yummy snacks and refreshments at the end of the race (and yes beer!)
If you are a local athlete, I encourage you to register to one of SJR’s upcoming events. Not only because they do a great job at organizing and putting these events together, but also because, like I said, they are a local company that not only supports local runners, but also attracts people from all over California to experience all the great things that our community has to offer.
Here is some more info on SJR ‘s upcoming races and info on registering to them:
- February 7th – Hensley Off Road Races: This race has the option of a 10K Run or a Mountain Bike race. Hensley Lake’s Buck Ridge Trail has everything a rider and runner could want! Soaring single track, competitive turns and rock gardens, hills to make you cry and hills to make you fly!Click here for more info
- March 5th – San Joaquin River Trail Half Marathon and 10K: Run some of the best local trails and a half marathon course that will kick your butt. With approx. 2500′ of elevation gain this course won’t be your typical stroll in the park. Over 90% single track trail in the foothills, this course could easily become your new favorite. Click here for more info
- March 26th – Barn Burner 6 hour/ 12 hour/ 24 hour run: Enjoy the company of your fellow runners on a beautiful 1 mile dirt loop along the Kings River for a timed running event. Run as many miles in the allotted time: 6 hours, 12 hours and 24 hours. After every lap come through the big red barn and refuel or rest your legs. Friends and family are welcome to join and hangout or campout; please leave your pets at home. All Runners will receive a unique finisher award, race shirt and great on course food. Click here for more details
- March 26th – Barn Burner Beer Mile: This race is a kick off to the Barn Burner 6/12/24 hour run Beer will be staged prior to run at each quarter mile
Each runner drinks four (4) cans (or bottles) of beer and runs one (1) 1 mile loop. Click here for more details
HOPE TO YOU SEE AT THE TRAIL!
She lives in Fresno with her husband and two Boston Terriers, Babushka and Bambino who like to run after soccer balls just like their dad.
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Great way to describe trail running! Once you hit the trail, it’s very hard to return to the road. Equally, great description of San Joaquin Running and Nate and all that he has done for the local running community!
Thank you so much for the message! I agree, I am really looking forward to upcoming races and to do whatever I can to support SJR!