What I Learned from My First Trail Race: Insights from the Del Dios 10K

Trail running had always been a "someday" idea for me—one of those challenges I kept putting off for over a decade. But this past weekend, I finally stepped up to the starting line of the Del Dios 10K, my first trail race. It wasn’t just a race; it was an experience full of lessons, reflections, and a bit of self-discovery.

Letting Go of Time Goals

One of the most important decisions I made before the race was to release myself from any time-related expectations. Unlike road races, where I check my splits and try to pace myself and even shave off seconds, this race was about something different. I told myself to enjoy it, knowing trail running would naturally be slower due to elevation and terrain. This mindset shift made the experience relaxing and fun. I wasn't chasing a clock; I was just running.

Adapting to the Terrain

The trails presented a new set of challenges. The first mile included a 100-150 foot elevation gain, with rocks and uneven footing demanding full attention. Surprisingly, I found that navigating these obstacles felt natural, thanks to my hikes Darlene and I had done over the last few years at Crystal Cove or Santiago Oaks Regional Park. I treated the technical sections like hiking but faster, carefully picking my way over rocks and steep inclines. On the downhills, I let gravity do the work, using the momentum to make up time.

Crowds and Community

The crowded start was a surprise. Hundreds of runners funneled into a narrow trail, creating a bottleneck. Instead of getting frustrated, I embraced it, starting at the back and gradually finding my rhythm. This approach allowed me to settle into a comfortable pace and connect with others running at a similar speed. The camaraderie on the trail added to the joy of the race.

Training Insights

Reflecting on my preparation, I realized that even minimal trail-specific training—a few hill strides, a two-mile trail run, and my recent experiences with several 5Ks since September and two 10K road races in the last 30 days—was enough to feel comfortable. Trail running engages stabilizing muscles and requires more core strength than road running, which I believe will complement my marathon training. It’s not just about fitness; it’s about adaptability and mental focus.

Key Takeaways for Future Races

1. Trail Running Is a Reset: It’s a great way to escape the pressures of road racing and reconnect with the joy of running.
2. Hiking Skills Translate Well: My experience hiking made technical sections feel manageable and even enjoyable.
3. Fueling and Strategy: A simple approach—using Honey Stinger gummies with caffeine halfway through—worked well to maintain energy without overcomplicating things.
4. Building Strength: The hills and uneven terrain are excellent for developing strength and stability, which will undoubtedly benefit my long-term running goals, including a sub-4-hour marathon.

Final Thoughts

Completing my first trail race wasn’t just about crossing the finish line; it was about stepping into a new world of running. I learned to appreciate the unique rhythm of the trails, the importance of adaptability, and the value of letting go of rigid goals. Trail running has earned a permanent place in my training, and I’m already looking forward to my next adventure.