I ran the Gorgeous Coast Relay in the Fall of 2018 (you can read about that relay here), so when I was asked to run the Gorgeous Hood to Hood Relay this June, I emphatically said, “I’m in!”
The race course ran from Oregon’s majestic Mt. Hood through scenic orchards with breathtaking views of Mt. Adams before finishing in Hood River fifty four miles away.
This relay did not disappoint. The views were spectacular from start to finish. From the snowy mountain top all the way down to the mighty Columbia River filled with wind surfers, kite boarders, and families dipping their toes. 
I always find that God meets me on these longer, scenic runs. Either just in the breathtaking beauty of His creation, or on the actual course when I feel like I just can’t take another step and need Him to help me finish. But during this race He showed up in the team.
Team “Hit the Woah” (based on the name of a “dance move” you can find all over YouTube) was an amazing example of teamwork. Short a runner due to a teammate being deployed last minute by the Red Cross to serve flood victims in the south, with another teammate committed to running despite recovering from the flu, the team banded together. We each took extra legs and extra miles to help each other out. And completed the entire course. All fifty four miles. 
“For the body is not one member, but many” ~1 Corinthians 12:14
“Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor.” ~Ecclesiastes 4:9
It was the best. Filled with rewards, partnership, laughter, a few leg cramps, and so many shared memories. I know the next time I’m asked to do this relay (or something similar) I’ll be quick to say “I’m in!”
Unmastered 
What a lovely run and fond memories to charish! We are so proud of you for all the runs you do! Hope you keep up running as long as you can. We use to run and really miss it. So enjoy every mile you are the best!
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