Patta Running Team Rocacorba trail
Thanks to Jeroen van Eck for words below!
For me running, or any sports is a platform to meet new people and have new experiences. Running doesn’t come easy for me, but I enjoy to take running seriously.
For this reason, I’m a member of the Patta Running Team; a casual running team from Amsterdam and Rotterdam. I’m currently training for my first triathlon (Olympic distance) this summer in Amsterdam.
Once a year, our team aims to participate in a running event out of my/our comfort zone. As a road runner, trail running is definitely out of my comfort zone.
Together with Mick – founder of Equipe Girona and a member of our team as well – we picked a Girona classic: the Rocacorba 20 kilometre trail race with around 1,000 metres of elevation. We stayed at the Equipe guesthouse a few days upfront and a few days after the race.
Mick and Wilma are such lovely hosts. From the moment we arrived, I felt at home right away. The house is modern and very cosy. It accomodates both being on my own – to read a book – and to enjoy the presence of the team in the beautiful shared living space. Mick took us out for a few pre-race runs, and to enjoy the scenery around Girona.
The race itself was a beast. The surrounding nature is stunning, the elevation is killing, and the descent thumped on my thighs like an annoying toothache. The Rocacorba was probably the most physically challenging race I participated in. I’ve also never felt so proud of finishing a race as I did that day.
I’m looking forward to returning to the Equipe Guesthouse soon for a few days of bike riding
