The Sheriffs in Iceland: Hlaupahatid A Vestfjordum

One of things we really wanted to do in Iceland was a trail run. We were able to find one that had distances both John & I could manage. John ran 45k, and I did 10k. For the record, I am not a trail runner, I can't remember when I last ran 10k, and I did not train for this. Nevertheless, it was an experience I didn't want to miss. I warned the organizers that I would likely be last, just so they were prepared.

John's race started in Thingeyri at the swimming pool there. His route took him out along the coast. Most of the pictures below are ones he took as he ran.

My race started, not surprisingly, a little more than 10k from Thingeyri. All the participants were bussed out to the start. That was an experience, let me tell you! It's not a road as much as it is a trail (hence the trail run), and the buses are not built for that kind of terrain. It was bumpy as heck! It also wasn't good for someone who always has to pee anyway - all that vibration.

We got to the start and it turns out we were just hanging out on top of a hill, with no shelter and, more importantly, no washroom facilities. Fortunately I had befriended a girl from North Carolina who brought tissue. The majority of women runners fanned out to find rocks behind which we could pee. I didn't expect to have to do that!

We waited out there for almost an hour while the 45k and 22k runners came past. It was great because I was able to see John on the course. My new friend took a photo of us.

John did really well in his race. He came in at 5:17:49. It wasn't a race for him so much as a training run, so that's a great time. He needed to get some miles in, and he really enjoyed the course. The winner was ridiculously fast. He passed us (10k runners) as we were driving to the start.

I came in 1:17:43, and was 45/48 runners - I wasn't last! I wasn't fast but I did it. And I got some painful blisters along the way. I stupidly wore new socks, a rookie mistake. I got a chuckle from my NC friend. Just before we started she asked what my pace is. My response was zero! Her pace - 6 minute miles. She came 3rd overall. And this after suffering from a broken hip last year and learning she has osteoporosis. Impressive.

The race was amazing. The organizers and volunteers were so friendly and helpful, and it seemed like the entire town of Thingeyri was out to either help or spectate. We would definitely consider doing that race again, though next time I will train for it!

If you like the race on Facebook you can see pictures of us out on the course. Info about the race can be found here. If you are a runner heading to Iceland, check it out.

The church in Thingeyri. You didn't think you'd get away with no church picture, did you? Also, it was right across from the start line.