Such a fun event and another Trout Brook 10 Mile  run in the books at Willow River State Park in Wisconsin. Couldn’t have had better weather as not as cool as last year but just perfect short and short weather. Glad it was cooler as I took my water bottles along thinking I would take one just incase on the run only to find out I forgot the belt it goes with. Since I didn’t want to carry it I decided to just wing it as that was what this whole tail run was anyways. 

I ended up running it faster than last year though I think this route was more challenging. With more up and downs on single track trails. Which comes to find out I am not good at in a race.  Hence in the first two miles I took a little fall in order to take a souvenir home after the run on my knees. Even despite the fall and hills I probably could (should) have pushed it harder on some up hills to stick to the two leaders as after the stairs and the turn around I never saw them again and was really by myself till the end of the race to take 3rd overall.

A scenic view of a lush forest landscape surrounding a winding river under a cloudy sky.

It was also great that I did talked an old work friend the one and only Joey Metzger to join last min this week. So it was great catching up with him before. 

Two men are smiling for a selfie outdoors, wearing athletic gear and standing in a park with trees and cars in the background.

A multi-tiered waterfall cascades down rocky ledges surrounded by autumn foliage and is viewed from a wooden observation deck.

River winds through a forested landscape, reflecting the cloudy sky. Trees with autumn leaves frame the foreground, creating a serene, natural setting at dusk.

Scraped knees show cuts and dirt, while legs stand on grass. Bright blue and orange running shoes, paired with red socks, are near a plastic water bottle on the ground.

A hand holds a square, dark slate coaster featuring crossed fishing rods, flies, and text: “TROUT BROOK” and “WILLOW RIVER STATE PARK” with “ST. CROIX RUNNING CO.” underneath. A wooden floor is visible in the background.

I guess I could still not stop and take pictures in a race. That might help as well but.. it was just so nice out which also could be why I fell as I was not watching my feet and looking around.