My first experience running an ultra marathon was amazing.  I never thought that I would set out and accomplish such a challenge.  Pain, suffering, passion, hope and joy:  all feelings that floated in my mind and through my body during the six and a half hour journey through the snow covered trails at Holiday Lake.  I often doubted my ability to mentally and physically tuff out the journey.  But I did.  There were times when I asked myself why I was doing this and how was I going to finish.  I was aware that I would face such emotions because many experienced ultra runners warned me of these devastating thoughts.  They told me to keep running, because I could, and not to give up, because I didn’t need to.  So when those times came I pushed onward.  It was cold and wet and my body was fatigued and I felt the harshness of the ground beneath my feet with every step.  But I kept going.  Every step brought me closer to a feeling that I cannot describe.  I know that other first timer runners experienced similar emotions because I watched them cross the finish line with tears of joy in their eyes.  I have been told that racing is not always this fun.  So, I cherish this experience and set forward to the harder times.  Thankfully I had supporters at every aid station.  A special thanks to them for being in the freezing cold just for me.  It helped so much to see the familiar faces and hear encouraging words.  I was also delighted with the people who volunteered at the aid stations.  They were fabulous.  I could not have made it without their support.  Thanks to everyone who helped create such a great experience.         

Sarah Johnston