#Blerch, Beaten!

This past Sunday, I participated in the race series known as Beat the Blerch (inspired by this comic); and let me tell you, this race takes the cake, literally!

First of all, I'm a huge fan of the Oatmeal's brand of witty, yet hilariously inappropriate humor.  I love the way he takes our ordinary struggles and turns them from mundane to monumental, as well as the way he seems to say exactly what you're thinking even if you don't say it aloud.  Oh, and he's a cat lover, so we have that in common.

Anyway, it was by being a fan and following the Oatmeal on Facebook that I first learned about the race, and as soon as I saw the announcement I knew I had to do it!  Then, my run buddy told me she'd done it the year before and had a blast, which only made me that much more anxious. 

Because this race is so popular, the registration for Beat the Blerch usually opens and sells out in a very quickly.  In 2014, the race sold out in 29 minutes!!  I knew I had to be ready to spring on this opportunity as soon as the registration site opened. 

I saved the date, and when the time was just right I pounced on the deal.  I was in there!

Admittedly, the registration was less competitive due to the addition of several other events- it seems people cannot get enough of the Blerch.

Fast forward to race day.

I ran the 10k in Carnation, Wa.  The route was an enchanting stretch of forest trails that wound through lush greenery and over rushing rivers.  I call this sort of setting my happy place, so setting out I was already in my zone.  I've also found that distance-wise 10 kilometers, or 6 miles, is the perfect storm for me.  This distance is just long enough to get a meaningful workout, as well as to take advantage of time for quiet, head-clearing introspection that comes when I'm pounding the pavement, without being so long as to allow the agony to really set in.  

There was only one aid station on the 10k route, but it was the aid station to end all aid stations!  Complete with... you guessed it... Cake!  Graciously and deliciously supplied by Borrachini's in Seattle.

I swear this was the best cake I've ever eaten in life.  

There was also nutella sandwiches on wheat bread: two things I ordinarily despise, but when you're running your heart out and someone hands you food, you don't say no!  Or at least I don't (hence one of the reasons I needed to take on the Blerch in the first place). 

I finished the race, and stuffed my face with more of Borrachini's delightful confection (along with bananas and more nutella sandwiches).  I also hit the photo booth for a quick celebratory momento.

Side note:  I really love that Blerch participants get free digital downloads of all race pictures.

Basically, this is now my new favorite race, and I am already counting down to the next one (September 17/18, 2016)!

Matthew Inman, aka The Oatmeal, and the Blerch chowing down on bacon covered marshmallows.

Have you beaten the blerch?  What was your favorite part?