By Aracelly Clouse

The Marin Headlands race, getting ready to start the first decent

As far back as I can remember, running has always been a part of my life. As a child, I recall running to and from elementary school, because walking was just too slow! Now, as an adult, I continue to run – for fun and for peace of mind. It is my chance to clear my mind and recharge my soul for the day ahead.

I am a stay at home mom of three young boys: Joseph (8 ½), Jacob (7), and Jackson (20 months) as well as owner of Running Rascals, a running and fitness program for kids K-5. I am also a personal trainer, and the assistant cross country coach at my son’s elementary school. In addition, to running, I enjoy off-road triathlons. In 2006, I raced at the pro-level in the XTERRA Off Road Triathlons series.

One of the aspects that I can appreciate about participating in the XTERRA Triathlons was the “close knit family” feeling. All the race staff were so friendly, and everyone had such a laid back attitude. The races did not have thousands of people in them, so you would tend to see the same faces over and over again. It’s a great way to get to know your competition! For me, being part of the trail race series is a chance to get back in the XTERRA scene without having to participate in the triathlons (too much training for a mom of 3 young ones).

When I learned that XTERRA was creating a Northern California trail run series, I was like, bring it on! This year (2009) was my first year competing in the series, and I participated in all 3 events in the Northern California Region: Granite Bay, Redwood Peak and Marin Headlands. Redwood Peak in the Oakland Hills was my favorite run out of the series because of the single track trails and amazing views amongst the giant redwoods!

The Marin Headlands, starting the fun descent down to the Miwok Trail

The most recent race, the Marin Headlands 21k / Half Marathon, was in my opinion the most difficult. I’m convinced that the race directors searched for the most grueling trails with the steepest hills! The race started off at the beach parking lot, and went straight up hill for what seemed like 5 miles (I think it was only 1-2 though), then down hill, followed by more hills, hills, and even more hills! The course had a mix of fire roads, single track, rocks, steps, and breathtaking views of the ocean. Luckily, the last couple miles covered the same portion of the course as the beginning, so I knew I had some down hill coming my way! The descent back to the base and finish was fast and fun! Generic Events and XTERRA did a nice job making sure there was enough fuel out on the course, and as always, they had a yummy breakfast and coffee (with real half and half and sugar in the raw – my favorite) waiting for us at the finish. An awesome course coupled with great weather made for a spectacular day!

My running plans for the rest of the year? XTERRA Trail Run Nationals in Bend, Oregon in September; that and finishing off the year with the California International Marathon in Sacramento in December (with the goal of running a sub 3 marathon).

-Aracelly

Aracelly Clouse is the undefeated female Champion in the 2009 XTERRA Nor Cal Trail Race series. More information on the Nor Cal series can be found at XTERRA.