By Rick Rodriguez
Finally committed to my next trail run this Sunday in Oakland! It will be my 1st time up in Redwood Park and I'm looking forward to the experience. Training has been off of late but I'll be ready for the unexpected and the hills of the Redwood Park. Below is the elevation chart and the Race director's brief description on what to expect.
17k– This course has a little bit for everyone. The first two miles are on fire road slowly descending into the canyon. Right around Mile 2, you'll do a sharp left and descend via singletrack. After crossing the creek, you'll hit the first aid station (water, gatorade, GU, Clif Bars) just in time for a quick climb up to the East Ridge Trail. Runners will cruise on East Ridge Trail for two miles and then do a quick descent back into the canyon. Once in the canyon, it's a right turn and a nice climb up to the aid station at the Skyline Gate. After that, runners descend into the Redwood Forest. Make sure you look around a breathe in the majestic views. And don't forget to save some strength for this last climb - it's a doozy! Be prepared and check out the course maps on www.trailrace.com. The 15k course will be WELL marked with RED ARROWS and FLOUR. But as always, check out the course maps.
