So… I’m considering a short backpacking trip before the PPM, with the idea of sleeping at 13,000 feet on August 14, 15, and 16. (And then sleeping in Manitou Springs on 17 and 18.) The questions is, will these nights at high altitude just a few days before the race help or hinder race day performance? Is this too close to the race that my body won't have any time to adjust in any beneficial way? Will it actually have a negative effect? Ordinarily, I live at 6,000 feet, and aim to run and backpack in the high country a fair amount over the next 6 weeks anyway… Any advice on the wisdom of those 13,000-foot nights greatly appreciated!
