Pirates Cove Trail Run

Trail Running
This is not for the weak of heart. This was one of the most ass kicking events I ever completed. I won’t have mind if this was a leisure hike to the hills, but running up the 900′ elevation gain to complete an 8 km (5 miles) totally whooped my ass on some many different levels. I have to thank Bryan and Guri for introducing me to this sport. It really tests your physical and mental strength. And it gave me the reward of enjoying the spectacular views of Marin County. Guri, you weren’t kidding when you said this is going to be run, jug, walk, and then crawl to the finish line!
The Trail Run (03/​22/​2008)
We started at the Rodeo Beach Trailhead which introduces the beginning of the 30 degree ascent to the hills. After the first two miles, you pass through the old war historical barracks and continue your climb up the 45 degree hillsides. At this point, you reach the peak of the summit and travel through the trailheads. I took my time and made frequent stops to catch my breath. I didn’t mind the intense heat from the sun and the pain I was experiencing in my legs. The short breaks gave me time to enjoy an awesome view of Marin Headlands, Coastal Trail to Wolf Ridge, and the Pacific Ocean. It was so worth it. After realizing that I was far behind the running group, I started my journey down the hillsides. This part of the run is the most dangerous because of the 45 degree descent on loose rocks and gravel. I stuck with a small group of runners that worked together and helped each other through the difficult terrain. The fear of falling face first was on everyone’s mind. So we walked it until it was leveled enough for us to start jogging. One of the bad parts of this run is that there are no first aid stations. If someone got injured, we were on our own. After completing the four mile mark (the bottom of the dunes), it was cruise sailing to the finish line. I was shocked that most of the running pack had already finished. During the duration of the last mile, I couldn’t see any of the runners. I began to wonder if we (the last running group) took a wrong turn or missed our markers. Finally, I finished this event at one hour and 16 minutes. I was destroyed but still standing. One special note: Thank you Mimi for making that sign and cheering us on! That made me smile and embrace the support we needed to finish this event.
What to Prepare For on Trail Runs:
— Trail run shoes. This is very different from running shoes. You can use running shoes, but if you’re going to experience more trail runs, get trail run shoes. On this event, I used the New Balance 708 All Terrains.
— Water: It is highly recommended that runners carry at least 20 oz of water. There are no water or first aid stations for the 8 km. I carried a Camelback on this warm day and packed half a liter of water. As for fuel, it’s a great idea to bring Gel packs
— Safety. This was my first time so I didn’t expect the steep hillsides especially traveling downhill. Walk down anything with loose gravel and rock. Never rush yourself. This is where accidents are likely to happen. Also, I wouldn’t advise anyone to trail run alone. There are too many elements that could lead to danger. Stay with a partner. I was able to find a running group at my pace. This was important because there are no guides or officials to help you out.
— Local wildlife. Check the park signs. There are coyotes here. I guess we were lucky because they weren’t around. For a while I felt like a lost sheep trying to catch up with the herd. All the imagination I needed to finish this run.
Notes:
— 8 km registration: $ 25.00. This event sells out.
— Congrats to the Unilocal 8 Km team: Mimi L, Omar T, and Guri E
— Special Congrats to the Unilocal 20 Km team: John H and Bryan K
— The next Pirate Cove Trail Run will be tentatively scheduled for March 21, 2009. I plan on doing this again next year. Mission Peak will be my training grounds.
— Bring wet suit and wet shoes if I ever want to jump into the Rodeo Beach again. 36 °F temp ocean will take out your nuts.