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On Saturday morning before sunrise, December 16,
2006, six of us touched the Pacific Ocean and then turned around
and ran to the top of Saddleback Mountain, completing the third
annual Saltwater 5000. This was a special year, and weather was
definitely a factor. The run began with a few sprinkles during
the first 20 miles, with rain setting in after that along madjeska
grade. With temperatures plummeting as we neared the top, the rain
turned to sleet, then hail, even a little snow at the summit.
Temperatures ranged from the low 50's at the beach start to 32 degrees at
the summit, with a wind chill far below that. This was the first
year we've run in storm conditions and it offered us a new perspective of
the mountain and the trails along the way. Somehow the
bitter cold made the achievement of this year's journey a little
sweeter.
Thanks to the article in the OC Register, several
people met us along the route to cheer us on, offering us hot coffee
and bottled water. Thanks guys! Four of the original runners
finished this years run, and two new runners joined us. Of course
this run would not be possible without the help of our road crew/mountain
escorts. From the drop off and photo's at the
start, to the fuel stops at madjeska and the top of joplin, to the
bike escort up madjeska, to the rendezvous at the summit, our support team
was great. Thanks so much guys and gals for all your help and
support!
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