What do you get when you combine 400 women with 13+ miles of trail and free wine tasting? A whole lotta laughter and a ton of fun, that’s what! This past Saturday I took part in the inaugural So. Cal. Wine Country Women’s Half Marathon in Temecula, CA. It was officially my first trail race. 

 

 

My girlfriends and I headed to Temecula without any great expectations for our respective performances. With our various excuses lined up (bum knee, sleep deprived, low recent mileage, etc), we figured we’d just go and enjoy the scenery and each other and not worry about achieving any PRs. It was a glorious day, however, and within the first mile, my legs took off running. It was as if my they had a mind of their own and wanted to get in the game even if my brain wasn’t on board. With views like this to keep me company, I found my inner bliss as I navigated my way over the rocks, through the bramble, and up and down hill upon hill.

It was challenging for sure–the terrain changed a lot, from rocks to soft sand to compact dirt, requiring my full attention and focus. It turned into a spiritual endeavor as the fresh air oxygenated my lungs and my body and mind became one. By the end I was elated, buoyed by a natural high. I fully understand the addiction that trail running can become.

As I traversed the Temecula trails with all those women, I found myself marveling at this activity that brought us all together. We were from all walks of life and all parts of Southern California. We had all grabbed friends to run with us. It was a real celebration of community, with so many participants proudly donning their run club attire. In this age of isolating technology, I am grateful to count so many strong, powerful women among my community of peers.

And there was wine tasting. Who could ask for more? I will definitely be back next year!