Bandera 100km 2023

I half-jokingly call this the easiest race to kick my ass. It is a very early season race in central Texas that starts with some climbs and technical descents then transitions to a lot of flat, fast trails through low scrub forests and meadows and ends with a short climb and descent for 50km. Then do two laps of that for 100km.
I started feeling strong but got progressively worse. By the end of the first loop, I didn't have anything left in me to continue.
Music
Walk Happy by Shane Ivers - www.silvermans...
Outdoors In Summer by Shane Ivers - www.silvermans...
Music: A Day To Remember - Bensound www.bensound.com. Support by RFM - NCM: bit.ly/3qPo2kc
Better Days - Bensound www.bensound.com Support by RFM - NCM: bit.ly/3BPMHLH

[@SeeChadRun]

What a tough race! Beautiful area though!

[@adrian_powell]

Thanks Chad, it was a real treat to get onto the Texas trails, especially since it's in the middle of winter!

[@TimAllynBrown]

Way to gut out that 50k! I was out there with you, and that mid day humidity took me for a ride too.

[@adrian_powell]

Thanks Tim, I heard it was 100% humidity, probably why it felt so tough!

[@wplate]

Thanks for documenting and sharing the experience, it is important to show when things doing go well. You were unhappy for a long time, nice work pushing through to make 50K. Sorry we didn't chat in person! Hope to meet you at another event some time.

[@adrian_powell]

Thanks Wes, I hope our paths cross again!

[@SeeChadRun]

50k might be a 'baby' ultra, but it's still a good distance! Adrian, that seemed like a tough run but you gave it your best. Can't be too hard on yourself. Great work!

[@TheSutov]

Thanks a lot for this real-life story. How did you sleep the night before? Good luck ahead

[@adrian_powell]

Thanks! I guess everyone has some nerves before a race and I had a little jetlag so yeah, could have been better. Lots of second-guessing everything :)

[@russelllavis2359]

You saw the woman who I love. Lol. It's not a failure. You did amazing with what you could.