David,

Time has not allowed me to write an entire race report, however, I never
thought about writing one after a race until this experience.  Because
... this was not a race but an experience.  Watching people at the
Masochist run by me as I crewed for Paul this year was soo hard.  My
torn MCL was just after a good run at Highland Sky and my second major
injury of the year.  I was frustrated.  Having one more chance before
the end of the calendar year kept me focused on recovery.  I knew I had
to run Hellgate even if it meant coming back prematurely.  I am glad I
did it. 

Thank you for putting on these races.  I never thought I would love
trail running so much.  I remember when I met you after the first
Holiday Lake (June) race when I kept Craig company for the second half
(I think that was the most consecutive miles  I had run in my life).
You told me that I should be running these things.  I thought you were
nuts!  Years later I am not just content with finishing.  I want to see
myself continue to improve and I want to take on tougher challenges.
Completing a race like Hellgate, especially in these conditions, was
intoxicating.

I am trying to share the gospel of ultra-running among the students and
staff at Heritage High and others.  I think I have convinced at least 4
high school students (including one from Amherst High) and two staff
members to run Holiday Lake.  I am working on more:-)

Furthermore, I am struck by the coincidence of the trails being covered
in ice.  You referenced Dante's Divine Comedy (The Inferno) on the
t-shirts.  My Heritage students are required to read the last level of
the Inferno as a literary interpretation.  The Ninth level, where
Lucifer, Judas, Cassius, and Brutus reside for all eternity (for treason
against their benefactors), is covered in ice.  How fitting!

Sincerely,

Christopher J. Palladino