It feels like I have been training for the Pikes Peak Ascent since last Fall.  

Oh...it's because I have. :)

First, I had to qualify by running a half marathon.  I trained last fall and ran the Denver Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon last October.  

From there, I have had my eyes fixed on one main goal....finishing the Pikes Peak Ascent August 16, 2014.  I can't believe race day is just a week from tomorrow!  Wow!

When training for a big race, many obstacles can come up.  

For me, I decided last minute to go to a conference for my work in Atlanta.  I was gone from 7/30 - 8/4 and at sea level for that time.  I also didn't run for almost a week due to the busy conference schedule.  PLUS, I got very little sleep all week.

Sea level + No running + Lack of sleep = A possible setback

I can definitely feel that my lungs are working harder since returning.  

I also feel a cold coming on.  I've been proactive in fighting it but two of my friends were sick at the conference and one of my colleagues at a business meeting this Tuesday was also sick.  So, there is a chance I could get a cold before the race too.  That would not be good.

I'll just do the best I can.  I had thought I could finish in less than 5 hours with the training I have been doing but with these setbacks I may just try for 5:30.  

And my ultimate goal is to finish!!

Just under a week....