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I always try to list out the things that went well and badly as part of the learning experience.
===What Went Well===
* I used Leukotape P and Mastisol for [[Taping]] some blister spots. The taping [[Taping]] staying in place even with the feet smothered in Vaseline. * I used Inov-8 F-Lite 230 which provided good feel and grip. I cut the sides off the heel and took out the insole, but nothing more dramatic. I did not want to use my [[Modified Nike Free]] shoes [[Shoes]] as they have no grip at all, and don't work with YakTraxs. * The [[Dirty Girl Gaiters]] kept the crap out of the shoes [[Shoes]] and helped keep my feet a little warmer.
* Lots of Vaseline protected my feet from the cold, even when my feet got a little wet. See [[Running in the Cold]]
* I took more energy gels than I have before as part of my ongoing research/experimentation. I had 6 Gus on the ascent, and one on the descent. I did not take any other fuel, as the Gus seemed to be enough.
* I seemed to be the only one not carrying a bottle or hydration pack, but the cool conditions and layered clothes meant hydration was not a problem. I skipped all but two aid stations[[Aid Stations]], where I drank about 6 oz at each.
* A neck gaiter provided flexibility in keeping warm when the wind hit and staying out of the way when it was not viciously cold.
* It was great to see so many familiar faces at the race. I love the sociable, friendly nature of ultrarunning. I also think that the best ultrarunners are not necessarily the fastest; people like Doom and The Sultan transcend the clock.