Boy it feels good to be back racing. Especially right here in Bend. Sunday was the unofficial start to race season, and running a Superfit Productions Race always feels like coming home. Not only are the races super low-key and a good time, but I always get to see some of my favorite running compadres. This was only the second annual Mastondon 10-ish Mile Trail Run (last year it was 12-ish miles), and I was happy to get in early enough before it filled up.
Maston Trailhead Photo: Cory Smith
The Maston Trail system is uncharted territory for me – so wasn’t sure what to expect besides lower than the average elevation gains compared to the other trail systems in and around Bend. Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised.
The skies were bluebird, and the sun was blazing. Trails were compact – hardly any mud or ruts to navigate – which meant this race was fast. Flat too. The first five miles seemed to cruise – mostly flat or even a little downhill. Once we hit the sole aid station at mile five (no others were needed), the course climbed a bit. But that was it – a brief climb that put us along the Deschutes River Canyon which, while beautiful, was hard to enjoy while navigating the rocky trail along the edge. Once we were beyond the Canyon, we were offered stellar views of the three Sisters to the west.
Me running Mastondon. Photo: Cory Smith
I was happy with my 1:26 finish for 10+ miles. My hamstring had been bothering me for about a week, and I wasn’t sure how it would hold up while racing. There were only 81 finishers (the race gets capped around 100), but it was a good crowd with awesome volunteers. Fearless Baking breakfast sandwiches at the finish, along with a finisher’s mug made this an ideal event. Superfit knows how to do it right. There was even a keg of Deschutes for those who prefer their suds in the a.m.
A big thanks to Super Dave and all the volunteers. Great times were had by all.
amy c writes 