40 Miles of Pure Joy

Today, I finally managed to get out of bed earlier, feeling determined to start my run at a good time. Just after 7 a.m., I was quietly packing my things, making sure not to wake Maria and Augustine. Outside, the sky was overcast, and the air carried the promise of rain, though none had fallen yet. I stepped out, ready to take on another day of running.

Leaving Futrono, I faced an uphill climb. Strangely, my mind had convinced me it would be an exhausting ascent, but as I ran, it felt surprisingly manageable. Isn’t it funny how the mind plays tricks on us? Just as I settled into the climb, the rain began to fall. At first, I debated whether to put on my rain jacket. I finally did, knowing full well that I would end up sweating underneath it just as much as if I were simply getting wet. Still, I pressed on, and once the steep section was behind me, my legs felt strong, and running became pure joy.

As I reached the intersection where I had turned the other way the day before, I ran along the lake shore. Despite the rain, I felt absolutely fantastic. The first 16 miles were hilly, and the clouds hanging low over the lake cast a grayish hue over the scenery. Occasionally, the sun peeked through, adding brief bursts of light. It was peaceful, with only the light rain, the wind, and my own footsteps accompanying me.

Knowing I had 40 miles ahead, I kept a steady pace, staying mindful of my energy and spirits. When I turned away from the lake and began following the Rio Bueno, the change of scenery was refreshing. In Puerto Nuevo, a small town known for rafting, I treated myself to a cappuccino—a brief but welcome break before continuing.

The second half of the run took me through farmlands, where I passed cows, horses, sheep, and a variety of birds. The sight of animals and the rhythmic sound of my steps made the miles slip by effortlessly. As I reached the final 10 miles, the sun broke through, and the warmth returned. The air turned humid, just the way I love it. Running in this climate has been an absolute joy, and I realized how much I will miss Chile and the South American way of life. It’s always when something is about to end that you fully appreciate what you had.

Arriving in Rio Bueno was just as beautiful as the journey itself. At the plaza, I asked a man in a store about places to stay. As is so often the case, he was quick to help, directing me to a nearby restaurant, which in turn led me to a comfortable room for the night. I’ll be up early again tomorrow, but tonight, I get to enjoy a well-earned meal (beans), a refreshing strawberry yugo naturales (juice), and the satisfaction of another incredible day on the road.

Another beautiful day of running in Chile. I just love running. That’s for sure.

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