Pemberton race Report- Josh Brimhall

Well, if it’s February it must mean that I’m running the Pemberton 50k.  At least that has been the case for the past seven years now.  Some have asked me why I continue to run the same race every February and to be honest, I some have matter-of-fact answers.

   First, you can’t beat the weather in Phoenix right now.  This year didn’t disappoint either.  Temps were in the mid sixties and a slight breeze was welcome.  Second, the race director is a class guy who generously “comps” all past winners, male and female.  Not only does this save money, but it’s a great gesture in a quick-growing sport that doesn’t need to “comp” anyone.  Lastly, it’s just easy to get to.  The race takes place in the McDowell Mountain Park and can easily be driven to from out of town or from the Phoenix Airport.

  As for the race itself, I usually like to run it in order to establish some kind of baseline with my training.  I can gauge where I’m at and where I’m not, based on my finishing time, thus the repeat trips year after year.  This year however, I entered the race with some severe congestion in my sinuses and head.  In retrospect, it would have been wise to skip it and find something else at the end of the month, but my allegiance to the race wouldn’t allow it.

   In rather anti-climatic fashion, my 3:30 winning time was solid, but not indicative of my current fitness.  I’ve run faster on the course twice before.  I’ve decided to limit my spring racing in favor of some serious training volume in preparation for Western States, but now feel I should look for a late March marathon to “test” my fitness.  We’ll see what I can find.

  Gear used: Peak X/C shoes, Infinity top and shorts, Nathan handheld, Smith Redline sunglasses, Body Glide and First Endurance Pre-Race formula.