Yesterday I headed up to Camp Muir for the 2nd time in 5 days. I felt nervous at the start, knowing exactly what I was up against. The guides decided on a firm cut off time of 5 hours to turn around for anyone that had not yet reached Muir. Knowing that it had taken me 6 hours and 20 minutes the previous Tuesday, I was slightly more anxious. We were told that the pace would be quicker than the last trip to Muir, which Justin filled me in on, so I knew it would likely be faster than my previous trip.
At 9:15 AM we headed out of the parking lot. The lead guide was going so fast, he might as well have been jogging. I was terrified. If this was the pace, then I am saving my energy and turning back. 15 minutes in the guide stopped and indicated it was time to adjust clothing if anyone was too hot. Also, "That is not our pace. That was just to get a good sweat going." Half of me was relieved, and half of me wanted to punch the guy.
My last entry chronicled the trip from bottom to top, so all I really have to offer this time is the results. Last trip: 6 hours 20 minutes up and 3 hours down. This trip: 4 hours 55 minutes up and 2 hours 30 minutes down! All I can say is that I feel great. Last time I got to the parking lot and wanted to puke. This time I felt like I got stronger the closer I got to the bottom. I was full of energy. This morning I woke up and didn't feel tired or sore. I actually felt like I could do it again - if I REALLY needed to. I will pass on the chance today. The guides indicated that it would be a good idea to get to Muir one more time before my climb. I think about two weeks from now sounds good.
My climb is July 21st and 22nd! It is almost here! Needless to say, I am very excited.
Here is a summary of my last 11 days of training: 23 miles hiked, 15,000 feet of elevation gain. Time for a glass of wine.
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