Never a dull moment on this BPRun! The countries, the food, the people, the highs, the lows, the team camaraderie, the surprises, the focus on the mission.......on and on!

Team Orange enjoyed the spaciousness and beauty of running through Utah's Bryce and Glenn Canyon areas where eons old red rock mountains towered all around us as we ran steep hills, steep switchbacks and finally reaching crystal blue Lake Powell. The ferry ride across the lake was a nice respite from the searing heat but lasted way too short as we prepared to continue the assault on the hills once again in 100 plus degree temps.
Sunil, Sean and Brynn did take advantage of a short break to "cool off" in the lake water while our driver, Andy and I took off for a bite to eat.

We were at one point only 74 miles from the Grand Canyon. On my first solo run across the U.S.A. I wanted to run to the canyon but snow prevented me from getting there so I was a little disappointed that we were so close but so far away. Oh well, next time!
We ran through the Kanab, Utah area for two days, taking our own off road self-guided tour at times capturing the red rock and intricate geological patterns on nearby mountains.
As we ran to and through small towns we were greeted by well wishers, some cheering us on out their car windows or a "go Lansing" from some at gas stations. All this helped to energize me and I am sure my teammates felt the same.

One other amazing place is Zion National Park about 40 miles northeast of Kanab. Zion was a frequent home to Paiute Indians long before its designation as a National Park in 1909. The park is known for its majestic towering rock mountains which rise to awe-inspiring heights. We finally crossed into Colorado on Saturday. We are doing some team changes and looks like I move to Silver as some of their team members move as well. It is a little discerning to me to have to move, especially in the light that I moved from Team Orange once before and now having to move again. Doesn't seem quite fair and I question why but will not waste anymore time. The focus needs to continue to be the run and the cause and working as a team. Not who is running the fastest, who wants to be with their buddy, or wow, look how far I ran, etc, etc, ad nauseum or as I call it, letting ego get in the way of why we were selected and the mission. I have already thought a few need to park their egos way back at the camel station. Again, that is another story.

Team Orange spent their "rest day" at the Rifle County Fair, talking to people about the run, asking for donations and enjoying the smells and sounds at this traditional small town happening. We had our photos taken with people of all ages. The youth were especially excited about getting their photo made and knowing they could see it on the BPR website.
After three and a half hours of meeting and greeting we went a few miles up the road to spend the night in Glenwood Springs. This is a haven for tourists seeking the healing waters of the famous Hot Springs.

On a side note, I have been running the last few days with much soreness at the ball of my right foot and it has progressively gotten worse the last 24 hours. I am a little worried, especially moving to a new team, that I will have to rest for a day or two to give time for the golf ball size swelling to go down. Not good! I am icing, heating, massaging, etc. and hoping that by the time I leave out with my new team to begin the steep run to about 12,000 feet at 3 a.m., that I will be able to run. I probably will anyway and just hope it doesn't get any worse. I know, not a good decision but I don't want any of my teammates to have to run more than required, especially in these parts as we head to Denver.

It takes extra energy to maintain a passive expression when you are hurting inside. I am trying to do just that but know I should stop, show the pain and use it in a positive way for my teammates. Maybe this way I will be able to relax and the foot heal quicker.
Hey, grimmacing while running at 12,000 feet can actually be of advantage. Well, I'll find out soon enough!!

As usual, peace and blessings to you and yours.
Lansing