Rim-to-Rim at the Grand Canyon

The typical "rim-to-rim" run at the Grand Canyon is from either the South Rim to the North Rim, or vice-versa. A few weeks ago I did a South Rim to South Rim run, starting at the South Kaibab Trailhead at Yaki Point, going all the way to Phantom Ranch and then back up to the South Rim via River Trail and Bright Angel Trail. About 19 miles altogether, with about 9000' of total elevation change. I made it all the way up to Indian Gardens (at about 14 miles) in great shape, but then really "hit the wall". It took me over two hours to cover the last 4.5 miles, with stomach problems and leg cramps causing me to stop quite frequently. Did I say that it was hot? Yeah, well over 90 at the river and 90 on the nose at the 3-mile resthouse on the way up Bright Angel. However, I made it to the top in less than 8 hours and was in pretty good shape when I got there. I re-hydrated with a few malt-based adult beverages, took a nap, ate an Angus burger and fries, watched some TV and then had a good night's sleep. I wasn't too sore the next day (Sunday), but Monday was bad. Very sore quads and calves. Took a few days to work them out. Good to go now.

FYI: The typical "tourist" hike of the same route is a 3-day, 2-night camping expedition. One day to get to the river and two days to get from the river back to the South Rim. Maybe someday I will do that and get a better look at where I have been.