Captain Cat

I am the master of my fate, the captain of my soul

[captaincatwoodson]

2024 Trail Running Recap – A Year of Elevation, Exploration & Community 🏃‍♂️🏔️

Total Runs: 70 Miles Logged: 300 Elevation Climbed: 29,429 ft 🚀

"Step forward, climb higher, embrace every mile."

2024 was all about pushing boundaries, exploring rugged landscapes, and embracing every climb, race, and challenge. Each run added to a story of resilience, adventure, and steady progression across Montana’s breathtaking trails.

❄️ Winter Foundation – Finding Strength in the Cold

"Keep moving, even when the air is sharp and the days are short."

🔥 New Year’s Day Run – Jan 1 – 3.90 miles | 44 min 🏁 First run of the year! Cold air, fresh energy, and the commitment to movement.

🐉 Year of the Dragon Run – Feb 10 – 3.6 miles | 40 min 11 sec 🔥 Running in honor of the Lunar New Year—embracing transformation, power, and wisdom to fuel the miles ahead.

🏔️ Mount Jumbo Trail – Feb 17 – 6.48 miles | 1 hr 26 min | 2,326 ft gain 💪 Relentless inclines + stunning Missoula views—early start was key to avoid crowds.

🌿 Spring Breakthrough – Longer Miles, Stronger Efforts

"Expand your limits—every climb makes you stronger."

🌄 Saint Mary Peak Trail – Mar 20 – 7.2 miles | 2 hrs 1 min | 2,490 ft gain 🚀 Pure endurance—high-altitude challenge, rocky terrain, and biting winds at the summit.

💐 Don’t Fence Me In 12K Trial Run – Apr 6 – 7.97 miles | 2 hrs 3 min | 1,124 ft gain 🐕 Legendary trail race, wildflowers, and elevation practice ahead of May’s race day!

☀️ Summer – Balancing Speed, Strategy & Recovery

"Train smart, run free."

⚡ The Augúst (56th Edition) – Aug 22 – 3.15 miles | 31 min 17 sec | 121 ft gain 🏆 Late-summer speed check—a flat, fast 5K built for pacing strategy & precision.

🍂 Fall Push – Technical Terrain & Racing High Elevation

"Strength comes from struggle."

🌄 48th Mount Helena Run – Sept 21 – 5.75 miles | 1 hr 8 sec | 1,451 ft gain 🔥 A race that tested mountain endurance—switchbacks, breathtaking ridgeline views, and a huge elevation challenge.

☀️ Helena Sun Run – Oct 5 – 3.12 miles | 36 min 4 sec | 5 ft gain 🔋 Racing for clean energy—supporting solar installations at the local food share facility.

🔥 Final Reflections & Looking Ahead to 2025

📈 2024 was all about consistency, endurance, and discovering new trails—each run added depth to the journey, building toward bigger goals ahead.

2025 brings higher climbs, longer efforts, and structured racing. Time to step forward—Montana’s trails are calling!

[captaincatwoodson]

Trail Running Monthly Recap – December 2023 ❄️🏃‍♂️

Winter Miles & A Chilly Goodbye to 2023

Total Runs: 13 Miles Logged: 56.47 Elevation Climbed: 5,414 ft 🚀

December was a mix of cold-weather endurance, festive races, and closing out 2023 with a polar plunge. Here are the highlights:

🏃 Santa 5K – December 3 – 3.25 miles | 35 min 25 sec | 94 ft gain 🎅 Jingle bells, Santa hats & holiday chaos! A fun community run with festive costumes & post-race celebrations. Later that night? SantaCon madness—an annual bar crawl filled with Santas, elves & reindeer!

❄️ Frosty 5K – December 9 – 3.12 miles | 35 min 12 sec | 96 ft gain 🥶 Winter running at its finest—icy patches, freezing air, and pushing through the chill. A perfect test of mental grit!

🌲 Vista Point Loop – December 12 – 4.10 miles | 1 hr 1 min | 800 ft gain 🔥 Scenic winter views over Rock Creek Valley. Icy trails & fallen trees kept things interesting—traction gear was a must!

🐈 Purring Kitten Trail – December 16 – 7.35 miles | 1 hr 37 min | 2,107 ft gain 🌄 Playful turns, steep climbs & rugged terrain—a true trail adventure connecting Waterline, Arrastra Gulch & Wakina Meadow.

🏊‍♂️ New Year's Eve Run + The Warrior Plunge – December 31 – 3.33 miles | 37 min 24 sec ❄️ Closing out 2023 with a freezing cold dip! Polar plunges are an age-old tradition, rooted in Scandinavian cold-water therapy for health benefits like boosted circulation & improved mood. A bold way to welcome 2024!

🔥 2023 was all about new trails, bigger climbs & adapting to Montana’s rugged terrain. Ready to take on 2024 with even more miles & adventure!

[captaincatwoodson]

Trail Running Monthly Recap – November 2023 🍂🏃‍♂️

Total Runs: 20 | Miles Logged: 96.05 | Elevation Climbed: 16,131 ft 🚀

November was all about endurance, elevation, and winter creeping in. Here’s what stood out:

🌄 Waterworks Hill – November 4 – 3.5 miles | 45 min 11 sec | 711 ft gain 💨 Windy & exposed, but the sunset views over Missoula made up for it. Steep climbs + no shade meant staying hydrated was key!

☀️ Helena Sun Run Route – November 7 – 3.2 miles | 35 min 2 sec | 5 ft gain 🔋 Running for clean energy! A quick route in support of solar power projects in Helena.

🏡 Oro Fino Gulch – November 8 – 6.8 miles | 1 hr 17 min | 1,526 ft gain 🌲 Forest trails + handcrafted retreat spaces—a run through nature with a deep Montana history.

🔥 Rust Bucket – November 11 – 6.3 miles | 1 hr 41 min | 1,615 ft gain 🚀 Brutal climbs & sketchy footing but the peak views made it worth it. Map app required!

🏔️ Wakina Sky – November 30 – 7.41 miles | 2 hr 1 min | 807 ft gain 🍁 Lung-busting ascents & rugged terrain—a strong way to close out the month!

❄️ November’s miles were fast, steep, and pushing limits. December’s plan? Winter running mode activated! 🏃‍♂️🔥

[captaincatwoodson]

Trail Running Monthly Recap – October 2023 🍂🏃‍♂️

Total Runs: 14 | Miles Logged: 66.35 | Elevation Climbed: 9,134 ft 🚀

October was packed with adventure—from a trail half marathon to steep summits and crisp autumn air. Here’s a look at the highlights:

🍁 Trout Creek Canyon – October 14 – 13.46 miles | 3 hr 6 min | 2,334 ft gain 🔥 A trail half marathon through deep forests, creeks, and towering rock formations. Bears & ticks were a concern—this was a run best done with a buddy!

🌊 Ten Mile Creek Park – October 19 – 3.10 miles | 30 min | 41 ft gain 🌿 A peaceful, flat trail surrounded by rangeland & creek access. A perfect route to reset & take in the community-focused conservation efforts of Prickly Pear Land Trust.

🏔️ Upper Mount Ascension – October 21 – 7.13 miles | 1 hr 51 min | 1,499 ft gain ⛰️ One of the best summit routes in Helena—steep climbs, panoramic views, and rocky terrain that made for a challenging but rewarding climb.

🌋 Lava Loop – October 25 – 8.18 miles | 1 hr 45 min | 1,956 ft gain 💪 High effort, high reward—a tough, technical out-and-back near Geyser, Montana.

🎃 Halloween Lunch Run – October 31 – 2.2 miles | 30 min | 170 ft gain 👻 Short, fun & festive—just enough miles before the candy kicks in!

🔥 October’s miles brought cooler temps, golden trails, and rugged climbs. Heading into November, it’s all about longer distances, winter prep, and soaking in the final weeks of fall running.

[captaincatwoodson]

Trail Running Monthly Recap – September 2023 🏃‍♂️🍂

Total Runs: 10 | Miles Logged: 25.21 | Elevation Climbed: 3,767 ft 🚀

September brought cooler air, golden evening light, and steady climbs up some of Helena’s best trails. Here’s what stood out:

🌲 Tubbs Trailhead – September 2 – 3.9 miles | 45 min 23 sec | 1,098 ft gain ⛰️ Exploring the lower north face of Mount Helena—steady climbs, smooth trails, and great access for those on this side of town.

🔥 1906 Trail – September 11 – 3.1 miles | 33 min | 1,099 ft gain 🌄 A relentless climb to the summit of Mount Helena—rocky terrain, steep inclines, and stunning panoramic views as the reward. Water & traction shoes recommended!

🍂 September’s runs highlighted the seasonal shift—cooler temps, sharper air, and trails preparing for fall colors. Looking ahead to October—new routes, crisp morning starts, and full autumn scenery in the mountains!

[captaincatwoodson]

Trail Running Monthly Recap – August 2023 🌄🌲

Total Runs: 9 | Miles Logged: 51.3 | Elevation Climbed: 6,020 ft 🚀

August was all about distance, elevation, and adapting to unpredictable terrain. Here’s what stood out:

🏞️ Tucker Gulch Road – August 21 – 4 miles | 45 min 31 sec | 325 ft gain 🚴 A gravel road grind, steady effort with rolling climbs. Multi-use path meant sharing the trail, making this a solid community-run spot.

🌄 Mount Helena Ridge Trail – August 23 – 3.46 miles | 36 min 46 sec | 763 ft gain 🔥 Big views & flowing sections—steep climbs up front, but smooth stretches afterward made this a fun, fast trail. No electric bikes allowed!

🐻 Archery Range Trail – August 28 – 4.10 miles | 44 min 13 sec | 508 ft gain 🌿 Wild terrain! Muddy patches + reported bear sightings made this route extra unpredictable. Cleats & bear mace recommended.

August’s runs brought mileage, elevation, and some unexpected challenges. Looking ahead to September—cooler temps, bigger climbs, and fresh trails to explore!

[captaincatwoodson]

Trail Running Monthly Recap – July 2023 🏃‍♂️🌄

Total Runs: 9 | Miles Logged: 32.54 | Elevation Climbed: 8,540 ft 🚀

July was all about elevation, sweeping views, and pushing endurance on Montana’s rugged terrain. Here are some highlights from the month’s adventures:

🌲 Dry Gulch Road Loop – July 5 – 3.6 miles | 1 hr 5 min | 4,953 ft gain ⛰️ A shaded escape through the pines with stunning views. Moderate effort, but the elevation climb made it a real workout!

🏔️ Mount Ascension – July 10 – 3.41 miles | 41 min 20 sec | 931 ft gain 🌼 Wildflowers & epic vistas—this well-maintained summit trail was steep but worth the effort! Hydration was key on the warm evening climb.

🚴 Gin Money – July 29 – 6.19 miles | 1 hr 30 min | 797 ft gain ⚡ Fast & fun! Rodney Ridge delivers rolling terrain and two thrilling downhills. A great option for a quick hit of adventure.

🔥 Bonus Trails – Mt. Ascension Area 🐻 Rent Money Trail – A rollercoaster ride for runners, weaving through wildflowers & bird-filled terrain. 🚶 Waterline Trail – Cool, shaded, & damp —watch for moose!

July was a month of miles & mountain climbs—ready to take on August with more elevation, longer distances, and maybe another race effort!

[captaincatwoodson]

Trail Running Monthly Recap – June 2023 🏃‍♂️🌲

Total Runs: 9 (including one 5K race!) | Miles Logged: 29.74 | Elevation Climbed: 2,125 ft

June delivered a mix of fast efforts, long scenic trails, and a run through Helena’s historic past. Here are some of the month’s highlights:

🏃‍♀️ Global Running Day – June 7 – 3.01 miles | 31 min 16 sec 🎉 Every first Wednesday of June, runners worldwide hit the pavement (or trails!) to celebrate the sport. This run was steady and reflective—just me, the rhythm, and the reminder that running is about movement, not pace.

🌄 Lime Kiln Trail – June 17 – 10.6 miles | 2 hr 26 min | 1,368 ft gain 🔥 This sunset loop around Bompart Ridge was pure magic. Wide-open ridgelines, flowing trails, and a few slippery spots made for a thrilling adventure. Bear spray was a must—wildlife sightings were reported nearby!

🏛️ Reeder’s Alley – June 19 – 2.67 miles | 37 min 18 sec | 759 ft gain 👣 A run through history—this 1870s brick alley preserves Helena’s mining past. Something about moving through such an old space made the run feel different… like stepping back in time, one foot at a time.

🏔️ Sparta Trailhead – June 24 – 5.92 miles | 1 hr 10 min | 120 ft gain 💨 Ridge running at its finest! From Rodney Street up to Rent Money and Top of the World Trail, this run felt like being on top of Montana itself.

🚀 June’s miles were all about momentum, adventure, and elevation. Looking ahead to July for new trails, fresh challenges, and maybe another race effort!

[captaincatwoodson]

Trail Running Monthly Recap – May 2023 🏃‍♂️🌿

Total Runs: 10 (including two 5K races!) | Miles Logged: 33.68 | Elevation Climbed: 2,012 ft

This month brought some solid mileage, a couple of race efforts, and scenic routes that never disappoint.

📍 Waterline and Rodney Ridge Loop – 3.3 miles | 38 min | 344 ft gain 🌾 Wide-open fields, beautiful views, and an easy-flowing route made this an enjoyable run. The gravel road near the end wasn’t ideal, but the scenery made up for it. Some unmarked paths added a little adventure! 🌲💨

Looking ahead to June, more miles, more climbs, and maybe a new trail to explore! 🏔️💪

[captaincatwoodson]

Trail Running Monthly Recap – April 2023 🏃‍♂️🌿

Total Runs: 14 | Miles Logged: 41.12 | Elevation Climbed: 4,337 FT

April was packed with scenic routes, challenging inclines, and rewarding views. Here are some of my favorite highlights from the month:

📍 Old Shooting Range Trailhead – 2.90 miles | 31 min | 218 ft gain ✨ Crisp, cool evening run. The rolling terrain kept things interesting, and I even spotted mule deer grazing in the lower sections! 🌲🐾

📍 Ring Around Mt. Helena (Shortened) – 3.3 miles | 40 min | 1,048 ft gain 🔥 Leg burner! The steep ascent was worth every step—panoramic views at the top were unbeatable. Bonus: a golden eagle soaring overhead. 🦅🏔️

📍 Scratchgravels (Echo Lane Trailhead) – 4.8 miles | 1 hr 5 min | 1,161 ft gain 💨 Breezy and tough! The mix of singletrack and old mining roads made for a dynamic route. Caught sight of a lone coyote in the distance. 🌾🐺

📍 Scratchgravels (Head Lane Trailhead) – 4.81 miles | 1 hr 7 min | 1,161 ft gain ☁️ Overcast and misty—an eerie but beautiful run. Red-tailed hawks circled above as I pushed through the rolling terrain. 🦅🌲

📍 Arrowroot Trailhead – 5.23 miles | 52 min 31 sec | 173 ft gain 🌞 Mild and breezy, an effortless glide through rolling hills. Wild turkeys were out foraging near the base. 🦃🏞️

Looking forward to May’s miles and seeing spring take full bloom! 🌷🏃‍♀️

[captaincatwoodson]

New State, New Trails– 2023 Running Recap! 🔥🏃

2023 marked the start of a new race chapter in Montana—new trails, new scenery, and new challenges. From historic downtown runs to trail adventures through Helena’s open spaces, each race was its own adventure.

🏁 May 6 – Gold Color Run 5K

📍 Helena, MT ⏳ 31:43 🌤️ Weather: Sunny & crisp, upper 50s°F

First race of the year and in Montana! Held during Gold Rush Days, this race blended local history, fun energy, and colorful running stations. The course wound through Helena’s downtown, offering scenic views mixed with bursts of color along the way.

Bonus? Gold Rush Days featured everything from historic tours to sapphire panning and square dancing!

🏔️ May 13 – Don't Fence Me In 5K Trail Race

📍 Helena, MT ⏳ 41:02 📈 Elevation Gain: 495 ft 🌲 Weather: Cool & partly cloudy, mid-50s°F

This wasn’t just a run—it was an adventure. A mix of rugged terrain, winding paths, and elevation climbs turned this 5K into a true Montana trail challenge.

Highlights? Open fields, tree-covered paths, and post-race celebrations with live music and food. Every step felt connected to the South Hills Trail system, making this race as much about supporting conservation as it was about running strong.

🏅 June 10 – Governor’s Cup 5K

📍 Helena, MT ⏳ 35:15 ☀️ Weather: Warm & breezy, upper 60s°F

One of Montana’s longest-running events, the Governor’s Cup brought together athletes from all over for a high-energy race through downtown Helena.

The course featured gentle rolling terrain, keeping the challenge manageable while making room for strong pacing. The best part? Spectators lining the streets, pushing runners through the last mile.

🔥 Final Reflections – A New State, A New Running Scene!

✅ Historic downtown races packed with Montana charm ✅ Trail runs brought rugged beauty & fresh challenges ✅ Post-race celebrations added to the adventure

Montana racing delivers everything—scenic routes, trail grit, and a running community built for exploration. Onward to more miles! 🏃💨

[captaincatwoodson]

8 Races, 1 Sweatshirt & A Year of Strong Strides – My 2022 Running Journey 🏅👟

2022 was a year of speed, sweat, and strong finishes—from freezing February mornings to summer grinds, virtual half marathons to festive holiday runs, and one epic race series sweatshirt to cap it all off.

🏁 February 12 – Blacksburg Classic 5K

📍 Blacksburg, VA ⏳ 32:09 ❄️ Cold & crisp, mid-30s°F

The first race of the year! A solid road 5K with flat stretches early before rolling hills kicked in. Winter air kept the effort sharp, but crossing the finish line made it all worth it.

🍀 March 19 – Shamrock 4-Miler

📍 Blacksburg, VA ⏳ 43:19 🌥️ Cool & breezy, mid-50s°F

Four miles of steady pacing, weaving through road sections and scenic detours—plus, festive St. Patrick’s vibes everywhere. Green race swag? Yes, please.

🎗️ April 16 – #VT32Run in Remembrance

📍 Blacksburg, VA ⏳ 33:49 🌤️ Sunny & comfortable, mid-60s°F

One of the most meaningful races of the year—a tribute to the 32 lives lost in 2007. Passing through Lane Stadium, The Grove, and the Virginia Tech Pylons, this run was more reflection than competition.

🌅 June 18 – Downtown Sundown 5K

📍 Blacksburg, VA ⏳ 34:35 🌞 Warm, mid-70s°F

Evening race? Yes, please! Sunset backdrop, smooth roads, and strong pacing made for an awesome mid-year event with the local running crowd.

🌲 July 24 – Huckleberry Jam 8.3

📍 Blacksburg, VA ⏳ 1:36:02 🔥 HOT. Upper 80s°F, barely any shade.

A true summer challenge, with heat pushing endurance to the limit. The Huckleberry Trail delivered a mix of straight stretches and rolling hills, testing grit and hydration strategy.

💨 August 5 – Draper Mile

📍 Blacksburg, VA ⏳ 7:31 ☀️ Warm & dry, low 80s°F

A pure speed event—one fast, downhill mile to see what the legs could do. Short, intense, and a thrilling break from long-distance efforts.

🍂 October 9 – Hokie Half Marathon (Virtual)

📍 Blacksburg, VA ⏳ 2:36:21 🌥️ Cool & overcast, upper 50s°F

A solo grind, keeping pace steady without race-day adrenaline or spectators. Hitting the Huckleberry Trail for part of it made it feel connected to past races, even if virtual.

🏔️ October 29 – Brush Mountain Breakdown 5K Trail Race

📍 Blacksburg, VA ⏳ 42:20 🍁 Chilly, mid-40s°F

Technical, winding trails mixed with fallen leaves and elevation shifts—making it one of the most rugged runs of the year. Tough, rewarding, and completely different from road racing.

🦃 November 24 – Blacksburg Turkey Trot 5K

📍 Blacksburg, VA ⏳ 30:41 🍂 Crisp fall air, mid-40s°F

Nothing like a pre-feast 5K! Holiday cheer, smooth roads, and perfect race temps made for a fast, fun run to kick off Thanksgiving celebrations.

❄️ December 24 – Frosty 5K

📍 Blacksburg, VA ⏳ 33:20 🌨️ Cold but dry, 35°F

Wrapping up 2022 in true winter running style—cold air, frosty roads, and festive energy. A final push before holiday celebrations, sealing off a strong race season.

🔥 🏆 THE BIG WIN: Completing 8/9 RunAbout races & earning the Series Sweatshirt! 🔥

✅ Seasonal variety—cold mornings, summer humidity, crisp fall air. ✅ Mix of roads, trails, speedwork, and endurance challenges. ✅ Meaningful races kept motivation strong. ✅ Finished almost every RunAbout race—hello, sweatshirt reward!

2022 was a year of miles, memories, and finish-line moments. Bring on 2023! 🚀🏅

[captaincatwoodson]

Miles, Smiles, & Finish Line Files – My 2021 Running Recap 🔥🏃

2021 was a wild ride on the race circuit—remembrance runs, virtual marathons, trail races, and festive holiday events—each one adding miles, memories, and lessons along the way.

✨ April 17 – Virginia Tech’s 3.2-Mile Run in Remembrance

📍 Blacksburg, VA ⏳ 39 min 22 sec 🌤️ Cool & breezy, mid-50s°F

A race that meant more than just miles. A tribute to the 32 students and faculty lost in 2007, weaving through VT’s iconic landmarks. Emotional. Powerful. The kind of run that stays with you long after the finish line.

🏇 May 2 – Virtual Half Marathon (Kentucky Derby Festival)

📍 Louisville, KY (Virtual) ⏳ 2:05:28 🌦️ Warm & humid, near 70°F

A solo grind over 13.1 miles, embracing the spirit of Derby Day from afar. The route featured Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby—if only I could’ve seen the horses take off!

🐝 May 22 – The Blacksburg Classic 5K

📍 Blacksburg, VA ⏳ 30 min ☀️ Sunny & warm, upper 60s°F

Quick, fun, and fast! Starting at Margaret Beeks Elementary, I ran through Miller Southside Neighborhood before hitting the Huckleberry Trail. A great pace, great energy, and a solid race leading into summer miles.

🍂 October 3 – Virtual Hokie Half Marathon

📍 Blacksburg, VA (Virtual) ⏳ 2:32:01 ☁️ Overcast & mild, 55°F

Another virtual half, but this time the Huckleberry Bike Trail stole the show—miles of quiet, scenic beauty before the road portion pulled me back to reality. Bonus? Gu at mile 8 kept the energy flowing.

🌲 October 30 – Brush Mountain Breakdown Trail Race

📍 Blacksburg, VA ⏳ 1 hr 15 min (7.11 miles) 🌬️ Cool & breezy, mid-50s°F

Swapping roads for rugged trails, this race demanded adaptability, focus, and technical footwork. It was wild, unpredictable, and entirely worth the challenge.

❄️ December 24 – Frosty 5K

📍 Blacksburg, VA ⏳ 30 min 🌨️ Cold but clear, 40°F

Wrapping up the year with some winter magic, I tackled the Frosty 5K surrounded by crisp air, festive energy, and a race course flowing through roads & bike paths. Perfect way to end the season.

🔥 Final Reflections – 2021 Was a Year of Miles, Endurance & Growth

✅ Emotional runs, fast sprints, and steady half-marathons. ✅ Trail terrain kept things fresh and challenging. ✅ Virtual races tested self-discipline & mental grit. ✅ Weather played a major role—heat, humidity, wind, cold… all part of the game!

This year was about more than miles—it was about stories, experiences, and the ever-growing love for the run. 🏅 Here’s to stronger legs, faster finishes, and new adventures ahead. 💨

[captaincatwoodson]

Virtual 2020 Race Recap – Miles, Challenges & Strong Finishes!

Over 1,230 miles run | 100+ races completed | Virtual racing kept the momentum going!

2020 was a year of adjustments, shifting from in-person races to virtual challenges while keeping training consistent. Despite the ups and downs, the focus was steady progress, new milestones, and staying motivated no matter what.

🔥 Monthly mileage breakdown & race highlights below!

🚀 Running, Walking & Racing Achievements

📌 January: 103.17 miles run | 155.11 miles total 🚴‍♂️ Completed 6 races (5Ks + 1 bike race)

📌 February: 101.75 miles run | 135.39 miles total 🏅 Completed 2 races (including a triathlon!)

📌 March: 98.53 miles run | 147.72 miles total 🏃‍♂️ Race Series Highlight: Get Out & Run 3-Miler (26:56, placed 131 of 336)

📌 April: 178.71 miles run | 241.41 miles total 🏃‍♂️ Completed 17 races—including 7 5Ks, 2 10Ks, 3 half marathons, and a full marathon!

📌 May: 171.23 miles run | 270.3 miles total 💥 50K ULTRA MARATHON completed + 25 total races!

📌 June: 193.88 miles run | 252.38 miles total 🏅 Strawberry Sprint 2-Miler (15:00, placed 50 of 269)

📌 July: 191.2 miles run | 279.85 miles total 🏃‍♂️ Completed 7 races, including a 10K + virtual running challenges

📌 August: 50.96 miles run | 199.38 miles total 🏃‍♂️ Sherbet Shuffle 3-Miler (23:30, placed 41 of 200)

📌 September: 43.29 miles run | 131.14 miles total 🏅 Completed 3 races—including a half marathon + two virtual running challenges

📌 October: 66.86 miles run | 137.32 miles total 🏃‍♂️ Completed 2 races (5K + half marathon)

📌 November: 9.36 miles run | 107.72 miles total 🏅 Completed 1 race (5K)

📌 December: 18.72 miles run | 197.89 miles total 🏃‍♂️ Completed 2 races (5K + 10K)

🔥 Every mile counted. Every race tested endurance & grit. This year kept the momentum alive!

🚀 Reflections – Lessons from 2020’s Virtual Racing

✅ Consistency matters—even when race formats change 💪

✅ Mileage tracking showed true progress over the months 📈

✅ Recovery, adaptation & pacing became more important 🏃‍♂️

✅ Balancing running, biking & strength kept training solid 🚴‍♂️🏋️‍♂️

💡 2021 is about pushing further, refining endurance, and tackling new challenges!

🔥 Looking Ahead – 2021 Training Goals

✅ Cut down marathon & race times ✅ Focus more on strength & endurance balance ✅ Return to more in-person racing when possible ✅ Keep variety strong—running, biking, swimming, lifting!

Mantra for the next challenge: "Stay consistent, chase new milestones, and never stop pushing forward!"

🚀 Onward to the next finish line! 🏃‍♂️🔥

[captaincatwoodson]

2019 Fitness Recap – Comebacks, Milestones & Lessons Learned

Cycling breakthroughs 🚴‍♂️ | Running PRs 🏃‍♂️ | Strength gains 🏋️‍♂️ | A year of grit & growth 🔥

2019 was my comeback year in fitness, running, and overall health—but beyond miles and weights, it was a year of challenges, setbacks, and learning how to keep moving forward.

🔥 Every high and low reminded me what I’m capable of.

🚀 How It Started vs. How It’s Going

📌 August 2018: ✅ Lost 12 lbs., 8 lbs. away from goal weight ✅ Body feeling stronger, clothes fitting better

📌 August 2019: ✅ Down to 148 lbs., BMI dropped to 25.4 ✅ Wardrobe revamped—fitting into smaller sizes ✅ More endurance, strength & speed than before

💡 Progress doesn’t happen overnight, but small wins add up.

🔥 Fitness Wins – Biking, Running & Strength Training

🚴‍♂️ Cycling: 5,680.8 miles ridden + first century ride! 🏃‍♂️ Running: 346.53 miles logged + 17 races completed! 🏋️‍♂️ Lifting: Focused on form, balance & strength gains.

✅ Crushed my first century ride—then took on 8 more + 5 metric centuries! ✅ Completed my first mountain bike race! ✅ Ran at least once a week starting in May, then ramped up marathon training by July! ✅ Hit 3 new PRs across races! ✅ Bench pressed 115 lbs. for a partial rep, deadlifted 185 lbs.!

🔥 This year was all about movement, progress, and proving resilience.

🏃‍♂️ 2019 Race Highlights

📌 Getting Scary on the Huckleberry 5K – Finished 30:54 (9:57 min/mi), placed 2nd in my age group!

📌 Brush Mountain Breakdown 5K – Finished 40:26 (12:41 min/mi), placed 22 out of 39 overall.

📌 TCS NYC Virtual 5K – Ran 6.56 miles in 1:23:19!

📌 Allianz Partners 8K – Road trip to Richmond—exactly what I needed post-breakup! Finished 48:44 (9:47 min/mi).

📌 DC Wonder Woman 5K – Finished 29:01 (9:20 min/mi), strong run!

📌 NYRR Virtual Turkey Trot 5K & Blacksburg Turkey Trot 5K – Finished 29:14 (9:26 min/mi).

📌 [Not So] Frosty 5K – Finished 29:15 (9:24 min/mi), placed 6th in my age group!

🔥 Each race was a test of endurance, pacing, and mental grit—and I’m proud of every single one.

🚀 Reflections – Lessons from 2019

✅ Recovery isn’t linear—some setbacks take time to work through. ✅ Small wins matter—showing up consistently, even when it’s tough, is everything. ✅ Balancing fitness & life is an ongoing process—not just about workouts, but resilience.

💡 Every challenge helped me grow stronger. 2020 is about refining, rebuilding & leveling up.

🔥 Looking Ahead – What’s Next?

✅ Strength goals—bigger lifts, smarter recovery strategies. ✅ More endurance training—better pacing, higher mileage efficiency. ✅ New adventures—hiking, MTB, maybe even new race types!

🚀 This year tested me in ways I didn’t expect—but now, I’m ready for whatever comes next!

Mantra for the next challenge: "Keep showing up, keep pushing forward, never stop moving."

Onward to the next win! 🚀🏋️‍♂️🔥

[captaincatwoodson]

Rowdy Dawg MTB Race – First Mountain Bike Race & A Wild Detour!

Some races go exactly as planned. Others? Not so much—but they still make for an unforgettable ride.

This was my first official mountain bike race, and I opted for the Beginner 5.5-mile course, since I was still getting familiar with the trails. Little did I know, this race would turn into its own kind of adventure!

🔥 Rowdy Dawg MTB Race – The Event & Course Setup

📌 Race Date: October 27, 2019 📌 Location: Upper Pandapas Parking Lot, Blacksburg, VA – Poverty Creek Trail System 📌 Course Selection: Beginner (5.5 miles) 📌 Trails Covered: Queen Anne, May Apple, Poverty Creek

This race is part of a huge MTB & trail running weekend, including the Enduro Super D & Brush Mountain Breakdown Trail Run—which I also ran beforehand!

🔥 Double race weekend, double the challenge!

🚀 The Ride – Unexpected Twists & Trail Navigation

✅ Storms leading up to race day left course markers messy ✅ Between this & the earlier trail run, signs were hard to follow ✅ Accidentally took a wrong turn… and completely rode the wrong route 😅

💡 What started as a straightforward ride turned into an improvised adventure!

To make things even wilder, a kid happened to follow me—meaning both of us ended up on the wrong course. While I wasn’t too bothered by the accidental detour, he was definitely frustrated by the DNF (Sorry, kid!).

Since I rode off course, my final mileage ended up a little shorter than planned, but I still got a solid ride in!

🏁 Race Results – Finishing Strong (Despite the Detour!)

📌 Total Distance: Less than 5.5 miles 📌 Total Time: 36 minutes

🔥 Not the course I expected, but still a solid first MTB race experience!

🚀 Reflections – Lessons & Looking Ahead

✅ Trail navigation matters—especially after storms & multi-event weekends ✅ Always double-check course markers & turns before pushing forward ✅ Despite the mix-up, I got solid experience on the trails

💡 Next time, I’ll aim for better navigation—maybe even the Sport XC distance!

🔥 Looking Ahead – MTB Racing Goals & More Trail Riding

✅ Refining my skills for tighter turns, climbs & fast descents ✅ Making sure future rides stay ON COURSE 🤣 ✅ Possibly taking on the Sport XC 13-mile race next time!

🚀 One wild race down—many more to come!

[captaincatwoodson]

Detroit Marathon – Two Countries, 26.2 Miles, One Epic Race!

📅 Date: October 20, 2019📍 Location: Detroit, MI → Windsor, Canada → Back to Detroit 🏁 Distance: 26.2 miles (actually 26.48 by my tracking!) 🔥 Weather: Cool, crisp morning—perfect race conditions

⏳ Final Time: 5:13:51 (11:51 min/mile pace)

This wasn’t just any marathon—it was a race that took me across borders, through city history, and deep into the heart of Detroit and Windsor.

21,000+ runners from all 50 states & 72 countries gathered for this epic event, kicking off the race with both the U.S. & Canadian National Anthems.

Then—we were off!

🔥 Race Highlights – Mile-by-Mile Breakdown

📌 Miles 1-6: Downtown Detroit streets—not super scenic until hitting the incline toward the Ambassador Bridge.

📌 Miles 6-9: Crossing into Canada! Daybreak hit just as we entered Windsor, with beautiful views of the Detroit River & city skyline. ☕ Canadian hospitality? Tim Hortons & coffee stands greeting runners!

🚻 Quick porta potty break before heading back to the U.S.

📌 Mile 7: Underwater tunnel crossing back into Detroit—this is where watches glitched out & confused some runners! 📌 Detroit PD presence felt wildly different than the welcoming Canadian side—zero enthusiasm here.

📌 Miles 8-13: Through Joe Louis Arena, Mexicantown & Corktown—tons of cultural energy, plus a Mariachi band hyping up runners!

📌 Mile 12-13: Half marathoners split off to their finish—leaving the full marathoners to keep grinding forward.

Hello, Halfway Point!

📌 Miles 13-18: Long stretches of main roads & historic neighborhoods—Indian Village’s century-old houses were incredible!

📌 Miles 19-22.5: Belle Isle—looping over the bridge with gorgeous views of the skyline. 🥒 MVP award goes to the race volunteer handing out pickle juice shots—THANK YOU.

📌 Miles 22.5-24: Detroit RiverWalk—beautiful views & surprise whiskey/beer stations. 🍺 Jack Daniels + a PBR shotgun challenge? Wild.

📌 Miles 24-26.2: Final push, legs screaming, crossing the finish STRONG!

🏅 Crossed the line with a total distance of 26.48 miles in 5:13:51!

📌 Final Rankings: 🚀 Overall: 2,468 out of 3,207 🚀 Females: 903 out of 1,298 🚀 Age Group: 138 out of 205

💡 This race tested everything—mental grit, endurance, pacing, and border-crossing adrenaline!

🏆 Post-Race Celebration – Food, Beer & Recovery

✅ Official afterparty: "Conquered"—celebrated with fellow finishers! ✅ Food trucks = ultimate refuel: Bearclaw, Mac Shack, El Guapo ✅ Beer, stretching, and soaking in the win of running two countries in a single race!

🚀 Reflections – Lessons, Wins & What’s Next

✅ International races hit different—crossing borders mid-run is surreal! ✅ Detroit’s course is dynamic—Mexicantown + Belle Isle were the top highlights. ✅ Next goal? Refining my marathon pacing & optimizing fueling strategy.

💡 This marathon was everything I hoped for—and now, it’s time to plan what’s next!

🔥 Looking Ahead – More Marathons, More Challenges!

✅ Fine-tuning race strategy—can I shave down my marathon pace? ✅ Seeking out another border-crossing race—because that was incredible! ✅ More training, more PRs, and pushing boundaries ahead!

Mantra for the next race: "Run strong, push forward, and never stop chasing the next finish line!"

Excited for what’s next! 🚀🏃‍♂️🔥