tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23424654538875890972024-03-13T11:50:08.424-07:00Anecdotes from the TrailAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-25231608031215877892013-08-23T13:58:00.000-07:002013-08-23T19:35:26.681-07:00TransRockies Run 08.13.13 - 08.18.13: "If you never ever go, you'll
never ever know"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vAVb_Lou5vk/UhfBCi1kfOI/AAAAAAAAICs/UoHuV4CtcUQ/s1600/blog+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vAVb_Lou5vk/UhfBCi1kfOI/AAAAAAAAICs/UoHuV4CtcUQ/s640/blog+cover.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike and I at the top of Vail Mountain on stage 5 of the 2013 TransRockies Run</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I am starting to write this as I lay in my sleeping bag in tent city in Leadville. Everyone around me is busily organizing there things and getting ready for tomorrow's stage 3, 24+ miles from Leadville to Nova Guides/Camp Hale. When we finish tomorrow, we'll have no cell coverage and no connection to the outside world. So I thought I'd start to record my experience of this adventure called <a href="http://www.transrockies-run.com/" target="_blank">TransRockies Run</a> and then hopefully write a daily account of each stage to finish with a full report at the end.<br>
<br>
After a fun weekend climbing Grays and Torreys last Saturday, Mike and I spent the rest of Saturday in Breckenridge and then on Sunday drove to Beaver Creek to catch the shuttle. When we arrived in Beaver Creek, we realized we didn't have clear instructions on where to meet. We met two other runners, Linda and Maria, who also were having trouble. After some phone calls, we found the spot but learned that the shuttle was overbooked. The race staff who was there, Kevin also known as Houda (one of the coolest guys you'll ever meet), asked me if I would be willing to drive a van. I said, "Sure!" Mike, Maria, Linda and I jumped in the van and headed to Buena Vista. That's how our TransRockies Run experience started. We dropped Maria and Linda off at their hotel when we arrived and we went to ours. The next two days was spent hanging out in Buena Vista where on Sunday afternoon we saw a burro race, had beers at Eddyline, ran a short run to test the legs on Monday and even considered tackling Mt. Princeton, a 14'er near town. It was a good thing we didn't. Anyway, come Monday afternoon we picked up our TransRockies Run race packets and attended the pre-race briefing.<br>
<br>
It was interesting to see all of the other runners. There were runners representing 19 countries. It was surprising to learn how many were running the event for the first time and also how many of them didn't regularly run at altitude. Several representatives from the staff addressed everything from medical to logistics to the course for the first day. Kevin, who we met on Sunday with the shuttle, closed the briefing in what we've come to enjoy as the comic relief every evening. The guy works his ass off managing 87 staff and volunteers that take care of everything from transporting our bags to setting up the tents and other behind the scenes stuff we probably don't fully appreciate. Anyway, when Kevin finished we got together for a group photo then went back to our hotels for our last night in a bed for five days. The next morning, it was go time!<br>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lm31N_5ZX6A/UhfA5UxcYSI/AAAAAAAAH_c/N_kC-GHkBu0/s1600/Day+1.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lm31N_5ZX6A/UhfA5UxcYSI/AAAAAAAAH_c/N_kC-GHkBu0/s640/Day+1.1.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike on the dirt road during stage one with Mt. Princeton in the background (slightly to the right).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
<b>Stage 1: Buena Vista to Rockbridge, 20.8 miles, 2,500 ft. elevation gain (<a href="http://transrockies-run.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/TRR13_S1_Main_11x171.jpg" target="_blank">Route Map</a>)</b><br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s15G9cyUsBg/UhfA5dhkXzI/AAAAAAAAH_I/k_cj2pK_I8w/s1600/Day+1.2.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s15G9cyUsBg/UhfA5dhkXzI/AAAAAAAAH_I/k_cj2pK_I8w/s200/Day+1.2.1.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice views on day one.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We woke up early to make sure we had time for breakfast and to get our bags ready for pick up. The race gives each runner a giant duffel bag for all of the gear. The duffel is transported each day and our regular luggage is kept for us until the last day. We walked to the start in Buena Vista near the Arkansas River and waited with the other runners for the start of the race. Everyone was obviously excited and there was nervous energy all around us. A little after 8am, we all filed into the chute and at 8:30am sharp the race started with AC/DC's Highway to Hell blaring over the PA. We ran for a short distance on asphalt until we crossed the river and hit single track trail. We bottle necked for a moment and it was slow going up the trail as we slowly climbed up to a county dirt road. As we kept going up, we started to have a wonderful view of the city below us and of the collegiate peaks due west. Mike and I ran this section the day before to test out the legs (and lungs) and we were familiar with it. We could clearly see Mt. Princeton in the distance. Once on the dirt road, every one started to finally spread out.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1eY5JkvEP6c/UhfA5jlJ_QI/AAAAAAAAH-8/3TJEpSODCYk/s1600/Day+1.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1eY5JkvEP6c/UhfA5jlJ_QI/AAAAAAAAH-8/3TJEpSODCYk/s200/Day+1.2.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check point #2 stage 1.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When Mike and I first registered for the race, we had done so as a two person team. However, we later realized that it would probably be a good idea to switch to the solo category. For day one, we decided to run together which was a lot of fun without the pressure of pushing or holding each other back. At several points during the stage, we took pictures and enjoyed the amazing scenery all around us. I was surprised at the terrain on day one. It was more like high desert than mountain running.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L4UDm2bOvCo/UhfA6OTvbFI/AAAAAAAAH_M/f071Al7GSfE/s1600/Day+1.3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L4UDm2bOvCo/UhfA6OTvbFI/AAAAAAAAH_M/f071Al7GSfE/s200/Day+1.3.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rock tunnels last few miles.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On the dirt road, we made our way south then east around the hills that overlook Buena Vista. We eventually made it onto single track trail for a few short miles before then jumping on double track trail that the locals enjoy by driving their ATV's. We also started climbing for a while until we hit the aid station at mile 7.3. Mike and I were feeling pretty good at this point and we stopped to refuel and enjoy sliced watermelon at the aid station. Sliced watermelon is amazing as a long run food! Leaving the stop, we descended for the next couple of miles. On our way down, we met Pablo and Rodrigo, two runners from Puebla, Mexico. We ran with them for a bit and chatted with them while we ran. We also met Densie Maylin, who was wearing a Marathon de Sables buff on her head. I couldn't resist asking her about it. Turns out her husband, Russell, who was also running TransRockies had run the famous seven day Sahara Desert race twice. I made a note to meet this guy.The double track trail continued on the way down and then leveled out for a bit. We ran past incredible rock formations and through big open meadows with wild dandelions. It wasn't long before we arrived at aid station 2 at around mile 14. Among the usual aid station fare, they had bacon which I gladly grabbed a couple of strips. The aid station came at the right time for Mike as he seemed to need the boost from refueling. The next section of trail was the most fun of the day on ATV trails that twisted and rolled up and down. Mike and I found ourselves running with two other teams through this section, all of us making good time.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iUYl3K9c10M/UhfA6ZND8MI/AAAAAAAAH_U/LgG_g41UcFI/s1600/Day+1.4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iUYl3K9c10M/UhfA6ZND8MI/AAAAAAAAH_U/LgG_g41UcFI/s200/Day+1.4.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike and I at the finish of stage 1.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We then ran a couple short sections of dirt road before we arrived at the last aid station of the day. We stopped, grabbed something to drink and left rather quickly. We left the aid station with a team who had run the race a couple of years earlier. We ran through some rock tunnels and then stayed on what seemed the longest stretch of packed dirt road ever. It was only three or so miles to the finish but it seemed like twenty. I was having trouble mentally during this section, but Mike helped me get going. To make it through those last miles, we sang old Iron Maiden lyrics. Finally, we could make out the tents of the finish line and then we could hear the music. We ran into the finish line and finished around 4:02. We later learned that we were 7th and 8th among the male six day solo runners on our first day. Not bad!<br>
<br>
We went down by the creek and sat in the cool water for a bit before taking the shuttle to the campsite. Day one was in the bag.<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eLeQATGyPqc/UhfA6sXg52I/AAAAAAAAIAk/yBEOD3PfnCY/s1600/Day+2.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eLeQATGyPqc/UhfA6sXg52I/AAAAAAAAIAk/yBEOD3PfnCY/s640/Day+2.1.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike and I at the start of stage 2.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Stage 2: Vicksburg to Twin Lakes, 13.4 miles, 3,200 ft. elevation gain (<a href="http://transrockies-run.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/TRR13_S2_Main_11x171.jpg" target="_blank">Route Map</a>)</b><br>
<br>
The next morning, we were on a bus that took us to Vicksburg on a rutty dirt road to the start of stage two. Stage two is a short 13-ish miles, but it has an intimidating climb up to Hope Pass at 12,500 feet. We arrived at the start really early and had to wait for a while before they finally let us check in and get in the chute. It was cold too, so everyone tried to stay in the sunlight. After a few announcements and with music blaring through the PA, we were off. The first mile and a half of the course was on a wide dirt road and it was my intention to get out ahead of the pack in order to start the climb up the single track trail without getting stuck behind a huge train of runners. Mike and I got separated and I wouldn't see him again until the finish. We turned off the dirt road about two miles in, skipped the first aid station and went up the single track trail that immediately went upward.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wyvhgWK3ZZE/UhfA6gQAraI/AAAAAAAAH_o/wXqTnZqR6zI/s1600/Day+2.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wyvhgWK3ZZE/UhfA6gQAraI/AAAAAAAAH_o/wXqTnZqR6zI/s200/Day+2.2.jpg" width="150"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Climbing up to Hope Pass.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My strategy of passing the majority of the crowd on the initial dirt road worked and during the climb up I passed a few more folks until I settled in with a group up to the top of the pass. The toughest part of the climb was at the beginning which had the steepest sections. Later as we cleared the tree line somewhere above 11,000 feet, the grade wasn't as bad but remained steady going up. The views below were incredible and when we looked up or down, we could see the other runners on the switchbacks.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QPGdqt02b8k/UhfA7H0jreI/AAAAAAAAH_s/wyG7wgl8HPM/s1600/Day+2.3+Hope+Pass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QPGdqt02b8k/UhfA7H0jreI/AAAAAAAAH_s/wyG7wgl8HPM/s200/Day+2.3+Hope+Pass.jpg" width="150"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top of Hope Pass.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I've heard so much about Hope Pass. It's a pivotal point for the annual Leadville Trail 100 miler (which is actually this coming weekend). Those runners run over the pass not once, but twice. We only had to do it once on a much shorter run. It was still neat to get to experience running over the pass and to think of all the legendary ultra runners who had been here before. When I made it to the top, I exchanged smartphones with another runner, Sammie, and we took each others photos. Sammie then looked at me and said, "alright, it's time to go downhill!" She took off and I went after her. Coming off the pass is not overly technical, but the first 500 feet or so are on trails with loose gravel and rocks and can be quite tricky. We were flying and I was trying to keep up with Sammie. I was holding my own. We ran past the aid station and kept going down. Down and down we went and even under tree line, we were still cruising. We passed several other runners and then she started to widen the gap. I knew too that I wasn't going to be able to hold this pace once we flattened out, but it was fun while I could hold it. In the back of my mind I was thinking my quads were going to hate me the next day. I lost sight of her and in a way that was a good thing. I got into my own pace and soon got behind a couple from Wales who I would end up running with for the rest of the way into the finish, some four or five miles.<br>
<br>
The climb and descent over Hope Pass was only about six miles of the course and the run down the mountain was a blur. I can't recall my surroundings of the descent that well, but the run along the last few miles were along the Continental Divide scenic trail through beautiful sections of aspen trees and with views overlooking the Twin Lakes. It was rolling with short inclines and we kept a good pace. I could tell that I was running out of steam a bit and I was glad today's stage was short. We stayed on single track and continued to make our way around the lakes until we came out through the ghost town of Interlacken and then out the trailhead onto a dirt road. We could see the finish but it was still about a mile away. The couple I had been running with got out ahead of me but after taking a quick look behind me, I realized there was no one that was going to surprise me in the last few yards.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A-eb7wrdLpE/UhfA75t1LBI/AAAAAAAAIAA/MDTpmiza_B4/s1600/Day+2.finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A-eb7wrdLpE/UhfA75t1LBI/AAAAAAAAIAA/MDTpmiza_B4/s200/Day+2.finish.jpg" width="150"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finishing stage 2.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I crossed the finish line at 2:54 and I was really pleased to finish sub-three hours for the day. I was also<br>
pleasantly surprised to see a good friend, Tom Wilson, there at the finish to greet me. He was in the area with other GUTS friends from Atlanta getting ready for the Leadville 100. In true Tom awesomeness, he provided me with a beer, an Upslope IPA, and had me sitting down in a camping chair. While chatting with him, Mike came in about 15 minutes after me and he had a pretty good stage two. We finished fourth and fifth for the day among men's six day solo. We're starting off the week well, but let's hope we don't pay for it later.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gqr6dh61gls/UhfA7Zb8OQI/AAAAAAAAH_w/fjrHmXG4P4U/s1600/Day+2.5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gqr6dh61gls/UhfA7Zb8OQI/AAAAAAAAH_w/fjrHmXG4P4U/s200/Day+2.5.jpg" width="150"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying an Upslope IPA <br>
thanks to Tom Wilson!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The race organizers had insisted we run with extra water for this stage due to the fact that the first check point was very early on in the stage and the second checkpoint was in a precarious spot just after Hope Pass and the few supplies at this station had to be brought there by burros (or in the case of the Leadville 100 by llamas). I ran with my Nathan HPL20 hydration vest which had a 2-litter bladder and I carried a hand held too. When I was done with the stage, I realized that I could have easily ran with just my Nathan vest even though I skipped both aid stations during stage two.<br>
<br>
We picked up our drop bags, agreed to meet Tom in Leadville later that afternoon, and got on the shuttle to our tents waiting for us in Leadville. The TransRockies Run folks had everything set up for us in a baseball field just a couple of blocks from Harrison Avenue, the main street in Leadville. Here on out, I'll try to recap each day at the end of each stage.<br>
<br>
<b>Stage 3: Leadville to Camp Hale, 24.3 miles, 2,700 ft. elevation gain (<a href="http://transrockies-run.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/TRR13_S3_Main_11x171.jpg" target="_blank">Route Map</a>)</b><br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XuruoFm1h84/UhfA72xBAxI/AAAAAAAAIAY/maIn1RIEpnc/s1600/Day+3.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XuruoFm1h84/UhfA72xBAxI/AAAAAAAAIAY/maIn1RIEpnc/s320/Day+3.1.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike on Harrison Avenue in Leadville <br>
before the start of stage 3.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Today's stage was to start right on Harrison Avenue in Leadville. This was an anxious day for the Run3 runners since it was their last stage. For the first time all week, there was a crowd of spectators including runners who were in town for the Leadville 100. Mike and I arrived in time to leave our drop bags and check in to the start line chute. Every day we're required to carry a pair of gloves, a cold weather cap, a jacket and a space safety blanket. These items are checked before entering the chute. While waiting I saw Rock Creek race series director, Randy Whorton, and I had a chance to chat with him before the start. He was in town with other Chattanooga runners for the Leadville 100. It was good to see him.<br>
<br>
The race gun went off and we ran down the avenue eventually onto the shoulder of Highway 24. The field had a chance to really spread out. Mike and I once again were separated. It was interesting to fall in line with many of the same runners from the prior two days. We ran on asphalt for a couple of miles before heading off on trail on the climb to Mt. Zion. A modest climb that would take us up to approximately 10,900 feet. During the climb, the field thinned out and I was running with just a handful of other runners. In the distance, I could easily make out Mt. Massive and Mt. Elbert, the two tallest peaks in Colorado.<br>
<br>
We reached the crest of the climb and ran along double track trail and dirt road. We turned off the dirt road and started to descend. I was feeling good and decided to take advantage of the descent to get by a few runners. It wasn't long before we reached the checkpoint. I refueled on watermelon, bananas and Coke. Some of the runners I had passed on the way down arrived at the checkpoint as well. The next mile or so was on asphalt. I fell in step with two other runners on the road and we all hit the next section of dirt road and double track trail together. We crossed several muddy puddles before starting another climb. There was little to look at as we ran passed pine trees on either side. After a couple of miles, I was running almost alone with a female six day solo runner, Carrie, up ahead who I would run close to the rest of the way. The course up to the next aid station was along a rutted out dirt road with parts that had muddy puddles. It had a gradual climb at first along the Tenneessee Creek and then once we crossed it, went along rolling terrain through pine trees and to the next aid station. Carrie stayed within sight in front of me most of the way.<br>
<br>
I couldn't help remarking how well I was adjusting to running at altitude. I felt it most on the steep climbs, but for the most part I was moving well. On those climbs, my heart rate would get so loud that I could hear it in my ears. I did notice that I felt more fatigued than usual at the end of the stage.<br>
<br>
After the next checkpoint at Tennessee Pass about 14 miles in, we hopped on the Colorado Trail and enjoyed a long section of gradual downhill trail running. Soon we reached what would be my favorite portion of the course on tight single track trail into a broad open meadow with wild flowers. The sky was clear and the sun was out, but it wasn't hot. It was also an area where the night before during the course briefing, the race organizers told us to be ready to come across herds of sheep and the accompanying dogs. They told us that if we were confronted by a shepherd dog, the command to make the dog go back to the herd is, "Back to sheep!" We didn't encounter any sheep or dogs, but it was amusing to think about. We ran along for a couple of miles weaving our way down to a road crossing and the last climb of the day. At the road crossing, there were a group of spectators that I had seen earlier. They were obviously following one of the runners. As I ran by I joked that if I kept seeing them that I would start to think they were my personal cheering squad. They laughed and joked back that they would help kick my ass to the finish. That didn't sound bad to me.<br>
<br>
After crossing the road and hitting the climb, I was still with Carrie, but we now had caught up to a guy who I later learned was the six day solo leader. Apparently, he was having a bad day although he managed to stay ahead of us for the rest of the stage. The three of us got through the climb and up and over a few rolling sections of trail and then started the descent into Camp Hale. We came off the trail and onto dirt road arriving at the last checkpoint of the day. I was definitely feeling the day's effort and spent a bit more time at the check point than I should have. The other two runners took off and I left the aid station after them.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T-zP1IyoXXU/UhfA8lx0plI/AAAAAAAAIAQ/Bgf3viOZt0k/s1600/Day+3.3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T-zP1IyoXXU/UhfA8lx0plI/AAAAAAAAIAQ/Bgf3viOZt0k/s200/Day+3.3.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish of stage 3.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The last three miles were really difficult, mainly due to head winds along the straight wide dirt road. I once again saw the group of spectators I joked with earlier and told them that I could use the ass kicking right about now. They laughed. The guy that we had caught up to earlier, picked up the pace and widened the gap and Carrie who I had run with most of the day also widened the gap. I was slowing down and looking forward to ending the stage. The toughest part of this section was being able to see the race camp and finish line from a distance. Two other runners caught me before the end. I crossed the finish line happy to be done.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eDtS-Y6LXpA/UhfA8fMl7gI/AAAAAAAAIAI/RKZA9rHPbPs/s1600/Day+3.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eDtS-Y6LXpA/UhfA8fMl7gI/AAAAAAAAIAI/RKZA9rHPbPs/s200/Day+3.2.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike soaking his legs after stage 3.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Interestingly enough, I came in fourth again among male six day solo runners. If I had more in the gas tank at the end of the day, I may have been able to get third, but not the case. The end of stage three brought us to Camp Hale, a beautiful area surrounded by hills and where we would call home for two nights. Our tents were set up on a lawn over looking a pond. At night, the half moon lit up the sky and the stars pin pointed it.<br>
<br>
I spoke to Mike and told him that after coming in fourth the last two stages, that I wanted to give it a go on stage four and see if I could get on the podium. Regardless of the outcome, I told him that we would run together on stage five or six. He encouraged me.<br>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Nt6SjBAv3Q/UhfA4x5PB9I/AAAAAAAAH-o/WA-7Y4kWcgg/s1600/Camp+Hale+panoramic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="156" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Nt6SjBAv3Q/UhfA4x5PB9I/AAAAAAAAH-o/WA-7Y4kWcgg/s640/Camp+Hale+panoramic.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Panoramic of tent city and the finish area at Nova Guides/Camp Hale.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Stage 4: Camp Hale to Red Cliff, 14.2 miles, 2,800 ft. elevation gain (<a href="http://transrockies-run.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/TRR13_S4_Main_11x171.jpg" target="_blank">Route Map</a>)</b><br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OC0oHhR3ye4/UhfA83TmdEI/AAAAAAAAIAU/34VILzn7LAw/s1600/Day+4.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OC0oHhR3ye4/UhfA83TmdEI/AAAAAAAAIAU/34VILzn7LAw/s200/Day+4.1.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike and I at the start of stage 4.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Last night I slept the best I had so far. I finally got comfortable in my sleeping bag and I was able to ignore the sounds from my neighbors. I woke up and met Mike at breakfast. A few of the Run3 runners were still in camp including friends from Atlanta, Choo Choo and Joyce. It was sad to know that they were leaving camp. Both were incredibly supportive and Joyce had been a big help the past two stages helping secure a good tent spot.<br>
<br>
Mike and I checked into the start and I was feeling anxious. If I was going to get on the podium, I needed to have a plan. I figured if I could keep one of the top runners in my sight for the first half of the stage, that maybe I had a chance. The stage was a short one but it had a big climb with a long descent through a creek and finishing with a gradual downhill dirt road into Red Cliff. I needed to play it right.<br>
<br>
The familiar notes of AC/DC's Highway to Hell started playing and Mike gave me some words of encouragement. The gun went off and out of the start line we went down part of the same dirt road that finished the stage yesterday except we took a turn that had us going up a hill before descending and then getting on double track trail straight up the mountain. In the group of runners around me, I was surprised to see another male six day solo runner obviously trying to stay in front of me during the climb. This was messing up my strategy since I knew Russell, the British runner who had done Marathon de Sables and who was currently third in my category, was just slightly up ahead. If I was going to catch Russell, I had to deal with this other runner first.Up the climb we went and it got steeper and steeper. I kept a good tempo walking the climb while the other runner would try to walk then run the slightly more level sections. About a third of the way to the crest of the climb, I finally passed and dropped him. I also soon came in contact with Russell and one of the German teams who had been on the podium all three of the previous nights. Now it was a matter of holding on. We reached the top and the dirt road took us along the top. Besides Hope Pass on Wednesday, this part of the race course had the best views so far for the week with mountains to the east and west. However, I was in race mode and I didn't have much time to appreciate it. We all skipped the first check point and kept going.<br>
<br>
When we reached the top of the descent, that's when I went for it. I think I surprised Russell when I passed him and I just took advantage of it and did my best to quickly put a gap between us. On the initial part of the descent, I also passed the Germans. Down I went and I was navigating the switchbacks in the dirt road with no problem. There were some rather large rocks but I managed to keep my footing and continue to descend. Before long, I came across the first creek crossing once it started to level out. I looked up the road and I couldn't see anyone behind me. I kept pushing. I crossed one creek crossing after another until basically running in the creek was the only option. The water was cold, but it felt good. Eventually I crossed a wooden bridge and suddenly I was at the second and last check point of the stage at about 11 miles in. I didn't stop. The volunteers called out and asked if I needed anything. Thanking them I said I was fine. I just wanted to keep going.<br>
<br>
I was alone and there were no runners that I could see either in front of me or behind me, but I knew that if I messed around it wouldn't be long before Russell would be within sight. The next couple of miles to the finish were all on a dirt road with the perfect grade to keep a good pace. I kept looking over my shoulder but did not see anyone. One mile went by and I thought surely I was going to be caught soon. The next mile went by and I started thinking that maybe this was my day. Last mile and I came in contact with the first homes of the little town of Red Cliff. The dirt road changed to asphalt. I came around a bend and I could hear the music of the finish line. I took one last look over my shoulder and I still didn't see anyone. "Holy shit!", I was going to get this done. Finally, I reached the finishing chute and crossed the line ecstatically and in a respectable 2:34:48 to take third place for the stage. I got some high fives from the other runners that had already finished and then I stopped to get something to drink while waiting to see when Russell would be coming in. It wasn't long before he came around the last bend and made his way into the finish line. By his pace and the look in his eyes, I was glad that the stage wasn't another mile longer.<br>
<br>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rsu31pGDGkE/UhfA9OfyfnI/AAAAAAAAIA8/9FuFGfLEiQk/s1600/Day+4.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rsu31pGDGkE/UhfA9OfyfnI/AAAAAAAAIA8/9FuFGfLEiQk/s200/Day+4.2.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the finish of stage 4.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Russell was a good sport about it and I think he was even excited to have additional competition for the stage podium. We high fived when he finished and remarked about the stage and how it all worked out. Russell may have been a bit disappointed when I told him that the rest of the weekend I planned to stay with Mike and just run, rather than race hard.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yrECFZDrevM/UhfA-GYbu9I/AAAAAAAAIA0/1AMqLIuWEsQ/s1600/Day+4.podium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yrECFZDrevM/UhfA-GYbu9I/AAAAAAAAIA0/1AMqLIuWEsQ/s200/Day+4.podium.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the podium!<br>
<i>(Photo: TransRockies Run)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
That night it was fun to get up on the stage with the other top three stage finishers. It was even more fun at the end of the evening when Houda got on the mic and had us all in stitches making us laugh. He told us some story about when he was traveling the world and he was in Vietnam. It involved a girl and he was to meet her some where. He was hesitating, but someone told him something that stuck with him. "If you never ever go, you'll never ever know." Advice that he bestowed on us for our running.<br>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mYhngZPab1A/UhfA_rlUlZI/AAAAAAAAIBk/-czYHygEo2Q/s1600/Day+5.5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mYhngZPab1A/UhfA_rlUlZI/AAAAAAAAIBk/-czYHygEo2Q/s640/Day+5.5.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike along the ridge of Vail Mountain on stage 5.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
<b>Stage 5: Red Cliff to Vail, 23.6 miles, 4,100 ft. elevation gain (<a href="http://transrockies-run.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/TRR13_S5_Main_11x17.jpg" target="_blank">Route Map</a>)</b><br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3V4sczMsH98/UhfA4w8OEbI/AAAAAAAAH-s/J6yuQetcaNY/s1600/Camp+Hale+peaceful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3V4sczMsH98/UhfA4w8OEbI/AAAAAAAAH-s/J6yuQetcaNY/s200/Camp+Hale+peaceful.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camp Hale.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Wow! This stage was by far my favorite. Leading up to TransRockies Run, my friend Roxanne, who has run this race a couple of times, shared that this was her favorite stage and now I know why. Even though the first eight miles are dirt road, the following ten miles contained the type of trail, the views and the running experience that I was hoping to find when signing up for this race. Just stunning! But I'm getting ahead of myself.<br>
<br>
After two nights at Camp Hale, it was time to say goodbye to a great spot. The set up here was ideal and with the additional night stay, it really allowed for everyone, race crew and runners alike, to really settle in to the event and to create camaraderie. The nightly camp fire, the evening sky, the surrounding landscape, the other runners and the fact that we were disconnected from the outside world due to lack of cell service or internet connection really made it seemed like an adult summer camp for trail runners. A fantastic sensation!<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQNh1z95Itg/UhfA-Tdi9JI/AAAAAAAAIBM/UwvDQ-6F-Vo/s1600/Day+5.+mass+start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQNh1z95Itg/UhfA-Tdi9JI/AAAAAAAAIBM/UwvDQ-6F-Vo/s200/Day+5.+mass+start.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start of Stage 5. <br>
<i>(Photo: TransRockies Run)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In the morning, Mike and I packed up our duffel bags, dropped them off and shortly after breakfast joined the others to get on the shuttles to return to Red Cliff where the previous day's stage finished. We were to start from there to tackle Vail Mountain and arrive at Vail Village some 23 miles later. I was looking forward to this stage and even more to run it with Mike. When we arrived in Red Cliff it was chilly and most of us piled into a local restaurant called Mango's (hung out there yesterday after the stage and enjoyed some good food and beers before heading back to Camp Hale) and waited there until it was time to check in to chute. When we did finally gather in the chute, we all waited patiently to get going. A local Red Cliff resident, I think his name is Marco, had showed up to fire a real pistol as opposed to the usual race gun that fired blanks. Pow! We were off.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T42BKIaZ2Yo/UhfA-qKdYhI/AAAAAAAAIB8/0KkHNKdKwV4/s1600/Day+5.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T42BKIaZ2Yo/UhfA-qKdYhI/AAAAAAAAIB8/0KkHNKdKwV4/s200/Day+5.2.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the dirt road out of Red Cliff.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We headed up the same dirt road that we had finished on the day before. Except this time, we passed the bridge that led to the creek and water crossings and kept going. It was a long, very gradual, but steady grade up hill along the dirt road. After the initial shuffle of runners taking their positions along the pecking order, Mike and I got into a comfortable pace and spent much of the time talking about various things. It made the miles go by and soon we reached the first check point. Another runner, Mikael from Sweden, passed us on the dirt road and we would later learn that he had a shot at third place against the second overall leader, only to lose in the final sprint of the stage. Just goes to show that everyone can have a really good day even five stages into a multi-day race.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sTiVHkgl2_E/UhfA_MdaYoI/AAAAAAAAIBQ/StBgIUOrv_U/s1600/Day+5.3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sTiVHkgl2_E/UhfA_MdaYoI/AAAAAAAAIBQ/StBgIUOrv_U/s200/Day+5.3.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good times on stage 5.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Over the first part of the week, we'd learn after a couple of stages that each checkpoint has a designated crew which allowed us to get to know and to expect the same familiar faces at each checkpoint. Today checkpoint one had a luau theme and the volunteers were dressed in grass skirts and danced with a hula hoop. One of the guys had on a coconut bra. It was a fun station! This station also marked the beginning of some of the best trail we'd experienced all week.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_cxq8b208RA/UhfBAaLEgoI/AAAAAAAAIBo/JkcadGyLg-I/s1600/Day+5.6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_cxq8b208RA/UhfBAaLEgoI/AAAAAAAAIBo/JkcadGyLg-I/s200/Day+5.6.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildflowers along the trail.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We refueled on watermelon, some other munchies and Coke and then hopped on the single track trail that was to take us up the mountain. Right away I knew this was going to be special. The trail wound and cut along the side of the mountain with switchbacks that steadily took us up. We climbed with one of the women's team and we all maintained a nice tempo. When we reached the ridge, the next several miles were nothing but amazing views, some even in a 360 degree perspective, and all on the most wonderful, pine needle laden single track trail that Colorado has to offer. To the southwest, we could make out the range of mountains that included the Mt. of the Holy Cross and in the other direction, we could see another mountain range. Parts of the climb were steep, but then we ran along a ridge trail that cut through beautiful, open sections with a mixture of pines and other local trees. I absolutely loved this part of the stage. Mike and I took tons of pictures, not caring much about actually racing.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4bimcJQ3C4A/UhfBA1W40eI/AAAAAAAAICI/XHbeCX0i3sg/s1600/Day+5.8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4bimcJQ3C4A/UhfBA1W40eI/AAAAAAAAICI/XHbeCX0i3sg/s200/Day+5.8.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the back bowl of Vail with <br>
Mt. Holy Cross in the distance.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have to comment that Mike ran this stage in a pair of Vibram Five Fingers after blowing out his Inov8's on stage 2 and not caring too much for his Altra zero drop shoes on stage 3 and 4. Everyone we passed or that passed us seemed to make a comment about his shoes. I had run in my Salomon Mantras all week and they had worked well except for my heel was one big blister, but I think that was more due to all the descending the day before rather than the shoe itself. My Salomons had good traction and were holding up despite the beating they were taking day to day.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kWEW1kMYVS4/UhfBAcc5XBI/AAAAAAAAIB4/gz_IDATp7M4/s1600/Day+5.7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kWEW1kMYVS4/UhfBAcc5XBI/AAAAAAAAIB4/gz_IDATp7M4/s200/Day+5.7.jpg" width="150"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cliff descent.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The ridge trail came down off the side of the mountain and into the back bowls of the Vail ski slopes at first into an area called Outer Mongolia. The trail got tighter here and we ran through beautiful sections of wild flowers and soon started to climb again on several switchbacks that brought us back up to the ridge and further into the Vail ski resort area. The views remained spectacular through this section. We ran along the ridge until we came to a short, but technical, climb down a rock cliff formation. Once down, the trail lead into check point #2. This station was set up right under one of the major ski lifts of the backslopes of Vail and from here on through the next miles we were to run on dirt road. As always, the volunteers at the checkpoint were incredibly helpful and were eager to assist.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rGUlAg4d6Kw/UhfBBADuu7I/AAAAAAAAICo/C1WoZVQaSR8/s1600/Day+5.aspens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rGUlAg4d6Kw/UhfBBADuu7I/AAAAAAAAICo/C1WoZVQaSR8/s200/Day+5.aspens.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming down the mountain <br>
bike trails.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Mike and I at this point were still feeling pretty good. We left the checkpoint and made our way down the dirt road passed other ski lifts, but still able to enjoy an incredible view to the southwest. On the dirt road, the grade varied from sharp downhills to flats to a couple of climbs before we made it to the west end of the ridge and ski resort then the course took a turn onto single and double track trails that locals used for mountain biking. The trails had names like Lucy's Loop, Grand Traverse and Fred's Lunch. At first the trail descended through pines and aspen trees, but then it cut across and made its way up again until we reached an open section with more wild flowers where the trail began to switchback downward. We came out onto a short section of dirt road, then picked up more mountain bike trails and continued to descend. Down and down we went and here's where we were started to feel it. Some of the trail was on sharp descents that hurt the quads and stressed the toes in our shoes.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z4jVLGcOcZg/UhfBBbxvprI/AAAAAAAAICM/-0zza-f8iDk/s1600/Day+5.finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z4jVLGcOcZg/UhfBBbxvprI/AAAAAAAAICM/-0zza-f8iDk/s200/Day+5.finish.jpg" width="150"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish of stage 5.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When we came into the last aid station of the day, we were glad because we knew we only had three or so miles to go. But even though we were descending, those last few miles would take forever as our legs had been punished with all of the earlier descending. Mike and I managed to stay together while a couple of other runners actually caught up to us and passed us on the final portion of the descent. We could make out the buildings of Vail Village below. Down and down we went with switchback after switchback. Finally, the course turned onto a final section of dirt road and as we ran down we could hear the music and then see the finish line. Mike and I came across together in 5:02 and change in 6th and 7th for the male six day solo runners. Despite the hurt from the long descent, this was by far our favorite stage of the week. The views that we enjoyed at the top of the ridge and the top of Vail Mountain out did anything we had seen earlier in the week including the views from the top of Hope Pass on Wednesday.<br>
<br>
After spending some time at the finish area catching up with the other runners, we took the shuttle to where tent city was set up on a baseball field just outside of Vail Village. This was going to be our last night in a tent and there was a bitter sweet sensation about that, at least for me. It made me realized that this wonderful adventure called the TransRockies Run was coming to an end. Only one stage left to go.<br>
<br>
<b>Stage 6: Vail to Beaver Creek, 21.7 miles (the course book claims 20.6, but several people had this on their Garmins as a mile longer), 5,200 ft. elevation gain (<a href="http://transrockies-run.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/TRR13_S6_Main_11x17.jpg" target="_blank">Route Map</a>)</b><br>
<br>
I had a hard time falling asleep last night, so when the alarm went off this morning I struggled to get out of my sleeping bag. Then the thought hit me, this was going to be the last time crawling out of my tent and getting ready for another fun day of running in Colorado. It was going to be hard to say goodbye to what had been a fabulous week. I met Mike and others for breakfast, then went back to my tent to pack and drop off my duffel bag for the very last time.<br>
<br>
I haven't mentioned enough how grateful I am to all of the behind the scenes work of the staff and volunteers at the TransRockies Run. It really does take an incredible amount of work to move everything. There are so many people that work this thing that I am grateful to have met including Houda who manages the crew, Carlos from Madrid who was involved in taking down and setting up our tents every day, Memphis Joe who transported our duffel bags and gear, Burt who drove, set up and cleaned up the shower truck every day, and on and on. Best part about it is that they all do it with a smile and a sense of humor. Thumbs up from this very appreciative participant!<br>
<br>
I dropped off my bag and Mike and I walked into Vail Village back to the area where yesterday's stage finished. We were to start from here and run to Beaver Creek some 20 miles on trails and dirt road. When we arrived at the start, it was interesting to see the looks on everyone's faces. While some showed signs of being tired, most had a look of anticipation as if realizing that this was all coming to an end. A few I think were actually excited that this was the last stage. We checked into the chute, heard the intro to Highway to Hell and heard the race gun go off all for the last time. Off we went up a hill at first then down and into Vail for a mile or so on asphalt before going over I70 on a pedestrian bridge. Everyone ran quietly for the most part.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YWnOnaayqEY/UhfBBTQpzSI/AAAAAAAAICQ/1ImwJwpuRZI/s1600/Day+6.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YWnOnaayqEY/UhfBBTQpzSI/AAAAAAAAICQ/1ImwJwpuRZI/s200/Day+6.1.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike coming around the bend <br>
passed the aspen trees.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Stage six went from Vail to Beaver Creek on a course that was to prove challenging and which contained a mixture of everything from asphalt to single track to dirt road. And there was plenty of climbing, perhaps more than any other day of the week long race, or maybe we were all just feeling the effort of having run up and over mountains for the last five days. We got off the asphalt and hopped on a trail that took us up and up to the top of Red and White Mountain on the north side of Vail. Tall grasses and plants lined the trail and came up to our chest in some parts. The trail wound up and up. Mike and I fell in step with the same women's team we had run a portion of stage five with from checkpoint two to the top of Vail Mountain. Steadily upward we climbed, switch back after switch back. At times, the tall grass would give way to short trail sections lined with aspen trees. On the climb up, I noticed Mike was not keeping up as he had the day before. I was determined to stay together though and as a result let up on my pace slightly. We reached the top and came out onto a dirt road. A short time later, we hit the first aid station.<br>
<br>
At this point, we were running with several folks that we've come to know over the last few days. Two couples, Ashley and Emma who were from Wales and Chuck and Katy Hazzard who had run all week wearing running kilts and who also ran tethered to each other during the climbs. Ashley and Emma had run well on stage 4 and took third place in their mixed group category that day. Chuck and Katy had also run well all week even though they did not get on the podium. Another runner, Moises (he was the guy who had surprised me during the first half of stage 4 when I was trying to keep up with Russell), was also yo-yo'ing between us. We all ran along the top of Red and White Mountain together along mostly double track trail and dirt road. When we arrived at the second aid station, Mike and I took some time to refuel and get something to drink. This time check point two had bacon. Ever since they first had it on days one and two, I had been asking them for it, but they hadn't had it again until this stage. Nothing like a couple of strips of bacon to get you going. Ha, ha!<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RXv3TQmccdo/UhfBBzVtvtI/AAAAAAAAICk/ezSXuDYs9lM/s1600/Day+6.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RXv3TQmccdo/UhfBBzVtvtI/AAAAAAAAICk/ezSXuDYs9lM/s200/Day+6.2.jpg" width="150"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike coming down the trail <br>
passed the tall grass and<br>
aspen trees.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The couples had run up ahead of us and Mike and I left the aid station knowing that the next couple of miles were one long descent. We took off down the hill and soon caught up with Ashley, Emma, Chuck and Katy. This part of the trail, although a little rocky, actually had a good grade that allowed for some fast descending and Mike and I took advantage of it. We passed the two couples and kept flying down the hill. We caught up to another runner right at a brief s-turn that put us on a narrower single track trail with tall grasses that made watching wear you plant your foot difficult. We were also slowing down from the earlier effort. When the trail started to level off, we came into a ton of thistle that was chest high. I found myself running with my arms in the air so that I wouldn't smack the thistle as I ran by. We crossed a couple of small creeks and then went under a road through an underpass. The trail eventually came out onto an asphalt road that would continue going downward into Avon, CO. Mike ran ahead of me and set the pace the rest of the way down until we came into town and I think after that he was ready to be done except we still had another six or so miles and a hefty climb to go to the finish.<br>
<br>
In the town of Avon, we ran on the road for a couple of miles until we crossed highway 6 and ran up to the last aid station. This was it. Just four or so miles left to the finish but it would all be uphill except for the last mile or so. We were both tired, but I had a bit more left in the tank than Mike. I tried to encourage him. Chuck and Katy were the first to catch up with us and then Ashley and Emma. They would put a gap on us and we wouldn't see them again until the finish. We climbed along a double track trail at first, then dirt road, then trail again. The sun was out and for the first time all week heat was playing a part in the race. We weaved in and out of cover from the sun when ever we were under tree canopy, but much of this part of the course was out in the open.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h_wCuF1NkWw/UhfBByZqDVI/AAAAAAAAICg/yfI1lu-fgZc/s1600/Day+6.3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h_wCuF1NkWw/UhfBByZqDVI/AAAAAAAAICg/yfI1lu-fgZc/s320/Day+6.3.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike and I with our medals shortly after finishing stage 6.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We eventually came into the outer edge of Beaver Creek even running one section that was a series of tight switchbacks on a hill side with a ski chair lift. We eventually hit a dirt road and started descending. This was it. This had to be the last mile of the TransRockies Run. As we made our way down, we could see the resort area of Beaver Creek from above, but it wasn't until the dirt road started to level off that we started hearing the music and then the cheering. We picked up our pace as we crossed a bridge and then saw the finish line chute. Mike and I ran in together with 4:40 on the race clock. We high fived, posed for a photo, hung out, ate a little and sat down.<div><br></div><div>In the men's six day solo category, I managed to hold onto 4th place for all six stages with a total time of 23:35:46. Mike finished in 7th with a total time of 24:41:08. The fastest finishers were in the men's open teams category with Rob Krar and Mike Smith finishing in a blistering 15:22:59 (remember, that's over 118 or so miles. Wow!) The most creative team name or my favorite was "Scrambled Legs and Achin'". Pretty funny!<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U_VCQNsjooM/UhfBCgWYMgI/AAAAAAAAIC4/kxk_kBBhOlg/s1600/Day+6.4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U_VCQNsjooM/UhfBCgWYMgI/AAAAAAAAIC4/kxk_kBBhOlg/s200/Day+6.4.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beers to celebrate the finish!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our hotel was right around the corner, so when we were ready, we grabbed our duffel bags and other gear and checked into our room for showers. Admittedly, it was nice to get into a real shower. Once refreshed, we then came back downstairs and grabbed a table at a restaurant across the way with a view of the finish line. We toasted with a couple of beers while we watched other finishers still coming in. It was really cool to see the happiness on finishers' faces as they crossed the finish line. For us and for them, it was done. The 2013 TransRockies Run was in the books.<br>
<br>
<b>Post Race</b><br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-suicc76DGkU/UhfMEjRMmYI/AAAAAAAAIDE/8cJbFJYmNoU/s1600/Densie+and+Russell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-suicc76DGkU/UhfMEjRMmYI/AAAAAAAAIDE/8cJbFJYmNoU/s320/Densie+and+Russell.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Densie and Russell Maylin from <br>
New Zealand before start of stage 5.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's hard to put into words what exactly this event meant for me. I know that I gave an account of mostly the running part of the event and the daily stages, but this was more than just the enjoyment of trail running. It was also about the camaraderie and getting to know the other runners. There are so many amazing people that Mike and I met. I could have easily filled this blog with tons of stories about each one of them. There were experienced ultrarunners all the way to runners who had at the most run a few half marathons and marathons. One guy, Martin Parnell, had recently run 250 marathons in a year in an effort to raise money and bring awareness to a cause called Right to Play. There were also Ironman finishers and athletes of all skill levels and abilities. Of course, Russell Maylin who twice finished Marathon de Sables and placed top 50 both times. The elite field for this race was very impressive with the top men's team, Rob Krar and Mike Smith, just smoking the field. Rob had also finished second at this year's Western States. There was a Run3 runner we met earlier in the week who after finishing the three days at TransRockies Run headed up to run the Leadville 100. I'm not sure how she finished, but just the fact that she attempted it was impressive to me. I met and made many new friends, many who I mentioned already Pablo, Rodrigo, Densie, Carrie, Moises, Ashley, Emma, Carlos, Houda, Mikael, Memphis Joe, on and on and on. There were even several friends from home including Choo Choo, Joyce, Pablo, Silas and Liz. I hope to run across them in the future soon.<br>
<br>
I've been asked a several times now if I would run the TransRockies Run again. The short answer is an unequivocal YES. I would love to once again take part in this event in the future. The long answer is more complicated since taking a week to ten days off away from my family is very valuable time and as a result, if I had the time again I would probably move on to other adventures that I would also like to do.<br>
<br>
The whole idea of running the TransRockies Run was born several years ago when I first heard of the race, but it wasn't until last year that I finally found a partner to do this with me. I can't thank my friend, Mike, enough for joining me on this adventure. It was an amazing week to reconnect with an old friend. I think we both discovered new things about ourselves and each other. It was a real joy to not only take part in the race together but to also spend time together from climbing 14'ers on the first weekend to grabbing the final round of beers on the final night of the race. Mike, I hope we get to do something like this again soon.<br>
<br>
I have to thank Tim Tatarka at Salomon Running, Nate Price of Nathan Performance Gear and the staff at Big Peach Running Co. in Decatur, Georgia for gearing me up for this fabulous adventure. Thanks guys!<br>
<br>
I also need to thank my friend, Roxanne Zobava, who had run this race a couple of times before and who designed my training plan and gave me advice over the last year or so leading up to this event. Thanks Rox!<br>
<br>
Lastly, a very special thank you to my wife, Stacy, who supports me and has told me time and time again how proud she is of me. Stacy, I love you!<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B0eSlCOt11E/UhfA4-ncH_I/AAAAAAAAH-0/jjN1FJnFTwQ/s1600/Camp+fire+panoramic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="163" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B0eSlCOt11E/UhfA4-ncH_I/AAAAAAAAH-0/jjN1FJnFTwQ/s640/Camp+fire+panoramic.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hanging around the camp fire at Nova Guides/Camp Hale at the end of stage 4.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com5Rocky Mountains, San Isabel National Forest, Colorado 81211, USA39.1177601 -106.4455075999999813.595725599999998 -147.75410159999998 64.6397946 -65.136913599999986tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-17015581117081398082013-08-11T16:06:00.001-07:002013-08-11T20:07:57.658-07:00Hitting the 14'ers: Mt. Grays and Mt. Torreys 8.10.13<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-gDYp5mrh1Bk/UggYrDec6EI/AAAAAAAAH9I/15sQEjn3MOg/s960/Photo%252520Aug%25252011%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525203%25253A57%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignnone" height="448" id="blogsy-1376262390202.3335" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-gDYp5mrh1Bk/UggYrDec6EI/AAAAAAAAH9I/15sQEjn3MOg/s500/Photo%252520Aug%25252011%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525203%25253A57%252520PM.jpg" width="598" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike and I taking break on the way up to Mt. Grays' summit.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I arrived in Denver on Friday night a little after 7pm. I was excited to be back in Colorado and eager to meet up with my friend, Mike. Next Tuesday, we're both taking part in the TransRockies Run stage race, but before that we wanted to take advantage of our time in Colorado and get in a couple of 14'ers. Since we were short on time, we picked two of them that were very accessible, Mt. Grays (14,270 ft.) and Mt. Torreys (14,268 ft.). We drove to Georgetown, CO and spent the night in a modest mountain village inn only about 10 miles from the trailhead with the plan to get up early for climb.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-dkrsVo10XAw/UggYt88QMTI/AAAAAAAAH9Q/fkxeT0R5W-w/s1024/Photo%252520Aug%25252010%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525206%25253A53%252520AM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignleft" height="225" id="blogsy-1376262390236.1274" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-dkrsVo10XAw/UggYt88QMTI/AAAAAAAAH9Q/fkxeT0R5W-w/s500/Photo%252520Aug%25252010%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525206%25253A53%252520AM.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike shortly after leaving trailhead.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The 5am alarm clock went off and we got our things together. We'd stopped the night before to get some breakfast items and some food for the hike. Driving off the interstate, we immediately got on a dirt road that made its way 3 miles up to the trailhead. Luckily, we rented an all wheel drive and we navigated the rutted out road just fine. It was pretty steep in places too. As we neared the trailhead, we quickly realized that we were definitely not going to be alone on the way up. There were a ton of people there all gathering to go. We parked the car and by 6:15 or so we were on the trail.<br />
<br />
The sun was already up but it was rather chilly, probably in the upper 30's or lower 40's. We were well layered and I had my fleece buff, fleece hat and some gloves. I also had a light wind resistant poncho in my pack which I'm glad I did as it came in handy later at the top. The first mile or so was very gradual. We met another hiker and her dog. At first, it wasn't our intention to pick up another hiker but after a while Julie and her dog, Toby, would accompany us the whole way. It was Julie's original plan to hike with a friend, but her friend had bailed on her that morning and she came out on her own. She was glad for the company and we enjoyed hers and Toby's.<br />
<br />
We made our way through the valley until we clearly had the profile of both summits well in view coming up what is the east face of both. There were a ton of people out and we could make them out on the zig zag switchbacks all the way up to the top of Grays. We could also see people already on the summit of Torreys. While we would have preferred a more solitary climb, we were just happy to be on the trail and enjoying some beautiful Colorado scenery.<br />
<br />
We took the left fork that was the trail up to Grays. It was rocky and some what technical in sections but not too bad. Some where around 12,500 ft. the trail turned right and headed up at steeper grade. We stopped here to snack and to turn and look at the view at the valley below. Looking eastward across the valley, we had a ridge on our left crowned by Torreys and another ridge on our right that bent northward on the other side of where our car was parked at the trailhead. We all commented on the weather and how lucky we were to have clear, blue skies. It was a bit warmer at this point and we put away our fleece cap and gloves. After the snack, we started up the steeper trail.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Cv7mi6jmkT4/UggYzquXWuI/AAAAAAAAH9Y/Pe3re083NWQ/s960/Photo%252520Aug%25252011%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525203%25253A59%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignright" height="225" id="blogsy-1376262390230.6672" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Cv7mi6jmkT4/UggYzquXWuI/AAAAAAAAH9Y/Pe3re083NWQ/s500/Photo%252520Aug%25252011%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525203%25253A59%252520PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summit of Mt. Grays at 14,270 ft.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Through out the hike, it was fun to see Toby, Julie's dog, going up the trail ahead of us and then circling back. I admired the dog's ability to make the climb seem effortless even above 12,000 ft. He also seemed to handle the rocks and scree with no problem. The dog must have some well conditioned paws. Julie did say that she runs and hikes with Toby quite a bit.<br />
<br />
We hit the switchbacks on the final approach to the summit. Most living things were not growing at this elevation. It's August, so there were very small patches of snow, but none in significant amounts. During the rest of the year, I'm sure there is plenty of it especially at this altitude. We reached the top and there must have been 30 to 40 people on the summit. Mike and I searched for the USGS marker, but we couldn't find it. We did however pick up a cardboard sign on which some one had hand-written in marker, "Grays Peak 14,270 ft." We took the mandatory summit photos with the sign and then looked across to Torreys Peak, our next goal.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-IbudJaEmtf8/UggY1shikCI/AAAAAAAAH9g/NMjiXg46AvM/s1024/Photo%252520Aug%25252010%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525209%25253A38%252520AM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignleft" height="400" id="blogsy-1376262390238.862" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-IbudJaEmtf8/UggY1shikCI/AAAAAAAAH9g/NMjiXg46AvM/s500/Photo%252520Aug%25252010%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525209%25253A38%252520AM.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the saddle with Torreys behind me.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We left Grays summit on the north end to get on the saddle trail between the two peaks, a less than a mile journey. It was a decently sharp descent for a couple hundred yards until gradually leveling off. I was ahead of Mike and Julie while Toby stayed with me. Another hiker passed us on the steep portion hopping from rock to rock like a frog. Obviously, he was a regular on these trails. The trail leveled off as we neared the trail fork with the trail that made its way back down. We passed it and before we really started climbing, we stopped to marvel at the scenery around us. Grays summit seemed less intimidating than Torreys from this view point. We took pictures for a few minutes before continuing the climb. The last few hundred yards to the top of Torreys was definitely steeper. Plus there were even more people descending this summit than there were coming down Grays earlier. I reached the top first and after once again not being able to find the USGS marker, I took a seat on the pile of rocks that seemed to be the highest point. Mike, Julie and Toby soon made the summit as well.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-GvMpghP1xbI/UggY4Um0WGI/AAAAAAAAH9o/rMgSqCq3QH4/s960/Photo%252520Aug%25252011%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525203%25253A58%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignright" height="225" id="blogsy-1376262390272.5237" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-GvMpghP1xbI/UggY4Um0WGI/AAAAAAAAH9o/rMgSqCq3QH4/s500/Photo%252520Aug%25252011%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525203%25253A58%252520PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sitting on top of Torreys.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I sat there and was amused by the fact that I had just reached the top of my fourth 14'er with another 30 or so individuals. Still, it was a feeling of accomplishment. I was feeling the altitude but other than a very light pressure in my head, it wasn't too bad. We pulled snacks from our packs and sat on the summit for a while. Julie shared a peanut butter sandwich with Toby that he eagerly ate up. While we refueled, we debated about taking an alternate trail off the mountain that followed a northeast ridge, but decided against. We were to descend down the trail from the saddle and join up with the original approach trail. After a couple photos, we left the summit.<br />
The descent was mostly uneventful. Clouds had moved in and few of them did not look friendly. Seeing them made us glad that we were on our way down. When we reached the approach trail, there were several hikers that were just making there way up. <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cNhrzmBdksk/UggY7M6iSfI/AAAAAAAAH9w/Sr5x3yS5mdw/s1024/Photo%252520Aug%25252011%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525205%25253A01%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignleft" height="225" id="blogsy-1376262390231.3027" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cNhrzmBdksk/UggY7M6iSfI/AAAAAAAAH9w/Sr5x3yS5mdw/s500/Photo%252520Aug%25252011%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525205%25253A01%252520PM.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike, Julie, Toby and me at the end of our hike.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We reached the trailhead after a while and high fived each other. After all, no climb is a success until you make it back safely to the bottom. The whole hike had taken us about five and a half hours with rest breaks. That's not a bad pace considering the 4,000+ feet of elevation gain, maybe more. We said our goodbyes to Julie and Toby before getting in our rental car and leaving the trailhead. We gave a ride to a pair of young hikers that had left their car down at the bottom of the forest road. Good karma for us since we had been given a ride years earlier after descending Mt. Elbert.<br />
<br />
Grays and Torreys were 14'ers number three and four for me and I hope not the last. The climb was probably not the best idea given that we were about to take part in a six day stage race covering 120 miles with its share of climbing. However, we don't get too many opportunities to be in Colorado and couldn't resist the urge to knock off a couple of summits. I hope to do it again soon.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-giZVKo7OQVk/UggY9BelZQI/AAAAAAAAH94/PEOmW9Vgux8/s960/Photo%252520Aug%25252011%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525203%25253A58%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="487" id="blogsy-1376262390243.5813" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-giZVKo7OQVk/UggY9BelZQI/AAAAAAAAH94/PEOmW9Vgux8/s500/Photo%252520Aug%25252011%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525203%25253A58%252520PM.jpg" width="650" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike and I on summit of Torreys.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-28538775622610179682013-08-07T16:32:00.002-07:002013-08-07T16:32:35.623-07:00Running Shoe Review: Salomon Sense Mantra<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zhjpN7CsIOA/UgLNg7vgZMI/AAAAAAAAH8k/eRPUEozSH9U/s1600/photo-59.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zhjpN7CsIOA/UgLNg7vgZMI/AAAAAAAAH8k/eRPUEozSH9U/s640/photo-59.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Salomon Sense Mantra trail running shoes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
A little over a month ago, I was heading up to Chattanooga to take part in the Rock/Creek Stage Race, a three day trail running event in the surrounding Chattanooga mountains. Sixty miles over three days on mostly single track trail. And I was on my way there without a decent pair of trail running shoes.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<u></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
My trusty Brooks Cascadias had run their course (sorry for the pun) some time before and when I went to replace them I purchased the Montrail Bajadas. Big mistake! With less than 150 miles on the Bajadas, I blew out the upper on the medial side of both shoes. Now I have Hulk feet, that is true, but I've never had that happen before in a pair of shoes. I didn't get around to going back to the store to replace the Bajadas when the stage race came up. I grabbed two pairs of my road running shoes and that's what I was planning to run with in Chattanooga. Except that at the race, I stopped by the Salomon vendor tent and the rep was giving runners the opportunity to test run in their shoes. I know it's the golden rule to not try something new on race day, but on day two and three of the stage race, I ran in the Salomon Sense Mantras and I was hooked.<u></u><u></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjChnTYwttA/UgLOm8tRioI/AAAAAAAAH8w/J-lyD-y5U54/s1600/9049941873_309b58c361_k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjChnTYwttA/UgLOm8tRioI/AAAAAAAAH8w/J-lyD-y5U54/s400/9049941873_309b58c361_k.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rockin' the Mantras at the <br />Chattanooga Stage Race</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
Fast forward a bit and I now have a couple of pairs of the Salomon Mantras thanks to the guys at Salomon. Along with 42 miles I put on the shoes at the race, I've put about 75 trail miles on my current pair and they've been great.<u></u><u></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
The shoe is advertised as "A trail shoe for midfoot strikers", but I'm more of a heel striker. Less on the trail, but definitely when on the road. Being used to the Cascadias which have a higher heel drop, I thought this would be a feature that would give me some trouble. At least at first, but that hasn't been the case. In fact, I feel it has helped in my foot strike transition and I have had no calf or shin trouble. The Mantras do fit a bit narrow for my foot, but so far that has not been a problem.<u></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
Two features of the shoe that I really like are the gussetted tongue (or "Endofit sleeve" as Salomon calls it) and the unique lacing system. The tongue or sleeve snugs up well to my forefoot and is immediately comfortable. The lacing system works well to provide a snug fit without it being too tight. It's also a plus that I never have to worry about untied shoe strings (something that Brooks Cascadia are unpopularly known for, as much as I love them). I like that you can took the plastic end of the lacing into a hidden sleeve on the top of the tongue too.<u></u><u></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
We've had quite a bit of rain in our area the last couple of months, so running on trails recently has been a bit of a slippery affair. Any feedback I would have on the traction provided by the shoes would be unfair until I had a chance to get in a few more miles in drier conditions. Having said that, I also run on quite a bit of granite in my area and the shoes have responded well with good grip on the rocky surface. Also in regards to the rain and considering sweat from summer running, I have finished several recent runs where my shoes are drenched. I've found the Mantras to have really good ventilation and they also have the ability to dry off relatively quickly.<u></u><u></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
One feature of the shoe that I would like to see improvement with in future versions of the shoe is better protection from the trail. The trademarked "profeel film" in the shoe is a thin carbon fiber sleeve that is embedded in the midsole. While I agree with not wanting to loose "feel" with the terrain, I have had a couple of cases on rootsy or rocky terrain where I felt it a little too much. For you true minimalist runners out there, you may think that's no big deal, but for someone like me who is used to a beefier shoe I realy notice it.<u></u><u></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
Overall, I really like the shoes, especially the light weight aspect of them. As mentioned, I really like the fit with the help of the inner sleeve and lacing system. I'm looking forward to taking them through a serious week of trail running at the 2013 TransRockies Run in Colorado. If they continue to do well for me, I'll most likely run in them during the Pinhoti 100 in November.<u></u><u></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<i>Disclosure: Salomon Running provided me with two pairs of the Salomon Sense Mantras to test wear. Opinion of the shoes are my own. For the manufacturer's tech page listing the shoes features, click <a href="http://www.salomonrunning.com/us/minisites/sense-mantra/" target="_blank">here</a>. Below is a Salomon Running produced video on the shoes.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object width="320" height="266" class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/Uzj4oc_ntRc/0.jpg"><param name="movie" value="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/Uzj4oc_ntRc&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/Uzj4oc_ntRc&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-52220835418337913672013-07-31T17:48:00.000-07:002013-08-02T16:57:44.139-07:00TransRockies Run: T-minus 13 days until the start!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l3ubSsNtPDY/UflyOLxaJuI/AAAAAAAAH8A/WnUV5sM0q_A/s1600/_dsc5807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l3ubSsNtPDY/UflyOLxaJuI/AAAAAAAAH8A/WnUV5sM0q_A/s640/_dsc5807.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Runners at the start of a TransRockies Run stage.<br />
(Photo from transrockiesrun.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yep, 13 days to go! In less than two weeks the 2013 TransRockies Run will be underway and my buddy, Mike, and I will be there. It seems like forever ago that we were talking about this and deciding to register for this year's event. I remember hearing about it in its inaugural year, I think around 2006, and immediately placing it on my short list of races to do some day. Well, that some day is practically here and I am ready.<br />
<br />
I've written about it before, but last year was a doozy of a year for running after having a great 100K in March to having to deal with a minor ankle injury and then a more significant shoulder injury and two surgeries. I'm happy to share that all that is behind me and my running has been strong of late. Close friend and a trailrunning beast, Roxanne, put together a training schedule for me about five months ago and I have followed it closely. You can see from the graphic where a year ago I was barely running, if running is was what you call hobbling the few times I attempted to get out there last July and August. Now, I've cracked 200+ miles for the last several months.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HsMj8Fikvv8/UflwcjnLIdI/AAAAAAAAH7w/4DLPgvkXG0k/s1600/mileage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HsMj8Fikvv8/UflwcjnLIdI/AAAAAAAAH7w/4DLPgvkXG0k/s320/mileage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
In June, the <a href="http://anecdotesfromthetrail.blogspot.com/2013/06/rockcreek-stage-race-day-3-signal.html" target="_blank">Chattanooga Stage Races</a> were a good indicator of how I was doing and those races went really well. I've done plenty of hill climbing in my training, even doing repeats on Kennesaw Mountain and Stone Mountain. I know those won't compare to what's waiting for me in Colorado, but it's the best a busy dad can do to be prepared with out going up to north Georgia for some Appalachian foothills running. I can't do much about the altitude other than get there a few days early and hope to acclimate as best as possible. So going into TransRockies my confidence is up and I'm looking forward to a stellar week.<br />
<br />
I'm also looking forward to spending time with Mike and we have a plan to knock out a double 14'er the weekend before the race. We both <a href="http://transrockies-run.com/gore-tex-transrockies-run-event-info/route-stages-maps/" target="_blank">hiked Mt. Elbert and Mt. Massive</a> a few summers ago and we're glad to add to that list. Here's what our week will look like:<br />
<br />
Friday, August 9: Arrive in Denver<br />
Saturday, August 10: Hike Mt. Greys (14,278 ft.) and Mt. Torreys (14,275 ft.); spend the night in Breckenridge<br />
Sunday, August 11: Take race shuttle to Buena Vista<br />
Monday, August 12: Hang out in Buena Vista and pick up race packet<br />
Tuesday, August 13: Stage 1 Buena Vista to Railroad Bridge, 20.9 miles, 2,500 ft. elevation gain<br />
Wednesday, August 14: Stage 2 Vicksburg to Twin Lakes, 13.3 miles, 3,250 ft. elevation gain<br />
Thursday, August 15: Stage 3 Leadville to Nova Guides at Camp Hale, 24.2 miles, 2,800 ft. elevation gain<br />
Friday, August 16: Stage 4 Nova Guides at Camp Hale to Red Cliff, 14.1 miles, 2,900 ft. elevation gain<br />
Saturday, August 17: Stage 5 Red Cliff to Vail, 23.6 miles, 4,200 ft. elevation gain<br />
Sunday, August 18: Stage 6 Vail to Beaver Creek, 20.9 miles, 4,900 feet elevation gain<br />
Monday, August 19: Return to Atlanta<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nq_0eI4fm-w/Ufmu5PlfFQI/AAAAAAAAH8Q/mSs4lpSaZoI/s1600/Team+Los+Guapos+Final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nq_0eI4fm-w/Ufmu5PlfFQI/AAAAAAAAH8Q/mSs4lpSaZoI/s200/Team+Los+Guapos+Final.jpg" width="200" /></a>What a week and a half, huh? You can find more details including route maps and elevation charts <a href="http://transrockies-run.com/gore-tex-transrockies-run-event-info/route-stages-maps/" target="_blank">here</a>. I'm particularly looking forward to stage two when we get to go over the infamous Hope's Pass at around 12,500 feet. In fact, we'll be between 7,000 feet and 12,000 feet for the entire race. I am also looking forward to stage five as I understand that it is the most beautiful of the six stages.<br />
<br />
There you have it six days of trail running in the Rockies. Mike and I are set for an incredible journey. We're each signed up as six day solo runners, but we still had shirts made up as Team Los Guapos. It should be quite the adventure.<br />
<br />
I have to take this opportunity and thank my wife for her support over the last year. I'm off trail running in the mountains for a week while she stays in Atlanta. I'll have to make it up some how. I'd also like to thank Salomon Running for providing me with a couple of pairs of Salomon Sense Mantras. The shoes are great and I'll be posting a full shoe review here soon.<br />
<br />
I'm going to try to blog from the race every day too if internet access allows, so plan to visit back and check my blog. You can always follow me on Twitter at @aReyoUiN too.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-7695251412935045522013-06-16T17:16:00.001-07:002013-06-24T08:33:14.685-07:00Rock/Creek Stage Race: Day 3 Signal Mountain 06.16.13<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EillVjz3vD8/Ub5TvqrzJZI/AAAAAAAAH5w/OB9ahHG-WMQ/s1600/photo-57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EillVjz3vD8/Ub5TvqrzJZI/AAAAAAAAH5w/OB9ahHG-WMQ/s640/photo-57.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3 days, 3 mountains, 3 stages. Only appropriate that I ran with #33 all weekend.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Gosh! Where to start? I'm sitting here, showered, fed and relaxed but trying to look back at a jam packed weekend with old and new friends doing something that I love to do...trail running. "60 miles, 3 mountains, 3 days" with good camaraderie and wonderful trails is hard to beat. Before diving into today's recap of stage three, I have to thank Rock/Creek, Wild Trails, Randy and Kris Whorton, Jeff Bartlett, Mike Scott, the Ultrasignup crew, Tim Titarka from Salomon and all of the race volunteers, staff and fellow competitors for yet another fantastic Chattanooga Stage Race weekend! I am looking forward to doing it again soon, whether it's the Stage Race again or another of the Rock/Creek race series. Top notch!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wmPoHRTfvmA/Ub5UOj5XcYI/AAAAAAAAH6A/P8wA0eOtPx8/s1600/9058328627_4f70a42197_k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wmPoHRTfvmA/Ub5UOj5XcYI/AAAAAAAAH6A/P8wA0eOtPx8/s320/9058328627_4f70a42197_k.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming up the steps at Signal Point.<br />
Photo Jeff Bartlett, Rock/Creek</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Day three didn't start much different from the other two days. I showed up, picked up my bib number, visited with friends, stopped by the Salomon tent to pick up the test pair of Salomon Mantras and got ready at my car. Everyone was walking with a little stiffness, some more than others. My quads were sore from all the downhill running yesterday, but otherwise I was feeling pretty good. Everyone seemed ready to tackle day three. There was talk about the difficulty of today's course. The veteran stage race runners were explaining to the new ones that while today's stage was technical and difficult, it was easily also the prettiest of the three stages. With a few minutes to go, everyone gathered at the start and once again at 8am sharp, we were off!<br />
<br />
We started off through the gravel parking lot and immediately onto the trail. Although it did bottle neck some, it wasn't the same traffic jam of day one. There was a bit more room on the trail and somehow things spread out pretty quickly. I did notice right away that the poison ivy was out in full force and it would be something to be watchful of over the rest of the course. The first few miles are a long descent past Mushroom Rock and down to a cable bridge. At first I ran with Brian from Indianapolis who I had run several miles with on both days one and two, but once we crossed the bridge and started the climb over the ridge to then go down into Suck Creek, we got separated. This portion of the trail is an out and back from Suck Creek back to Mushroom Rock and it wasn't long before we saw the front runners led of course by David Riddle. This guy is impressive to watch as he looked liked he was gliding along the trail. He set the course record on day one, barely missed it on day two and I would learn later that he would set a course record for day three. The guy is an unbelievable athlete. The guys behind him were cruising as well. I arrived at the first aid station at the bottom at Suck Creek, refilled one of my hand held bottles (I stuck with my two bottle strategy all weekend and I'm glad I did) with water and turned around to make the climb. It was fun to see everyone coming down and to cheer each other on. Lots of "Good job!" and "Looking strong!" comments being exchanged.<br />
<br />
I made it back over the ridge and I was by myself when I heard some singing behind me. I knew right away that it was John Dove and he caught up to me in no time but then settled into my pace. I really respect John and I also enjoy hanging out with him, so when he decided to run with me, I was happy for the company. We made our way down to the bridge and John and I started talking and exchanging stories. We made it across the bridge and then back up to Mushroom Rock and took the right turn onto the trail that led to Emerald Point.<br />
<br />
This part of the trail is beautiful with incredible views of the valley to our right and with trails that while having some degree of technical difficulty were still very runnable. We caught a few runners while we continued to talk and catch up about various things which made the miles go by relatively quickly. The weather was cooperating and I was glad it was. Earlier in the week, the forecast called for hot temps in the 90's but it would never get above the low 80's at any point of the race. It was definitely a bit more humid than the previous two days, but it wasn't suffocating.<br />
<br />
We were cruising along and when we were starting to wonder when the next aid station would appear, we strolled into it at Emerald Point. I was feeling good and enjoying running with John, but I was also anticipating what was coming next. In 2011, it was at this point that I started feeling crappy and I was hoping to avoid that this time around. I had kept up my hydration in these first nine or so miles, but I hadn't been paying attention to my eating. I ate a salty potato, a small PBJ and a gel at the aid station. John and I then headed out on the next section of trail.<br />
<br />
We heard church bells from the valley and realized it was ten o'clock. We were two hours into the race. I didn't forget my watch this time, instead I left it in my bag on purpose. I found from the first two days that running without the watch helped me run my pace and didn't stress me out to try to run a certain time. This was working well for me. It wasn't long before we hit some of the more technical parts of today's course. John was in his element and he soon took the lead in front of me and then proceeded to drop me. He got farther and farther away from me until he disappeared around a turn. I saw him briefly at the next aid station and then I didn't see him again until less than a mile to the finish. I found myself alone, but in good spirits and even more importantly feeling strong. The rocks along this part of the trail are huge and tough to navigate, but I was making my way over them pretty well. I caught a few runners before the climb up the stairs at Signal Point where the next aid station was located.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BFa4ymAFCts/Ub5UTPFu-nI/AAAAAAAAH6U/wutZxvgjx7U/s1600/9060552270_c3f4387755_k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BFa4ymAFCts/Ub5UTPFu-nI/AAAAAAAAH6U/wutZxvgjx7U/s320/9060552270_c3f4387755_k.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Blaine on the short road section.<br />
Photo: Jeff Bartlett, Rock/Creek</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once at the top of the stairs, my buddy Jason was there to greet me and refill my water bottle. It was good to see him (you should check out his blog sometime, click <a href="http://bestpacescenario.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">here</a>). I refueled on some potatoes and fig newtons and took off up the road. It was on this road in 2011 that I went straight across and ran a few minutes off course with another runner, so I was sure not to miss my turn this time. I caught up to a runner from Johnson City named Blaine and together we ran for a bit. We ran in front of what seemed like an assisted living home and there was quite a crowd on the porch. Everyone cheered us on and it was uplifting since it's unusual to get any cheering while on the trails. After passing the cheers, the turn back onto the trail came up quick. Blaine got out in front of me while the trail stayed relatively smooth, but once we ran along a creek bed, the trail became much more technical and I was catching back up to him. We crossed a couple of cable bridges and then I passed him. The next couple of miles were tough due to the terrain. It's funny how in my head I was dreading the section between Emerald Point and Signal Point, but I had forgotten about the difficulty of this section along the creek. I caught up to a couple of other runners and as I passed them, I also went by these cool cliff sides that were dripping with water. It really was amazing to run by them. A creek stayed to our right for the rest of the way before the next aid station. I did a gut check and all systems were running fine. Maybe the conservative running of the first two days was paying dividends now.<br />
<br />
I arrived at the last aid station. Refilled my water bottle and asked how much was left. I was told 3.6 miles. Sweet! Not much left to go. I was now on a double track trail that climbed up and I knew that meant we were heading back to the school where the finish was set up. I was still running much of the climb which gave me some more confidence. The double track turned onto a single track trail and I caught up to two more runners. I didn't pass these two guys right away, but I could tell that neither of them was feeling all that great. We also kept climbing until we came out onto the last section of trail which was identical to the Stump Jump finish and so it was very familiar. I managed to get by one of the guys and the other one was staying out in front of me. We crossed a road turned onto the last section of trail. I saw a tall guy a few yards ahead and realized it was John. I caught him and we both patted each other on the back. The other runner that was in front of me then all of a sudden stopped and put his hands on his knees. He was taking a quick breather I guess as I went by him. I knew the finish was really close. I could see two female runners in front of me and although I thought I could catch them, I never did. We came out from under the tree canopy, crossed a road and ran on the grass along the soccer field fence towards the finish. I crossed it with my arms up in the air. I was tired, but happy.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-siMQVCy7xyw/Ub5UQ3A_gAI/AAAAAAAAH6M/hmDCoxfrRlA/s1600/photo-55.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-siMQVCy7xyw/Ub5UQ3A_gAI/AAAAAAAAH6M/hmDCoxfrRlA/s320/photo-55.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the finish holding my sweet Marmot finishers jacket.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This year the race offered a new finishers award, a sweet Marmot ultralight running jacket. You even had a choice between two different colors, black or off white for the guys and blue or green for the ladies. I gladly picked mine up and then went to grab a bite to eat and something to drink before making my way to the kiddie pool with ice water to dip my tired legs. What a great day on the trails!<br />
<br />
I finished the 20 miles in 3:53 which was almost 20 minutes better than my 2011 stage three time. However, I only beat my 2011 cumulative time by three or so minutes. I finished with a cumulative time of 10:23.<br />
<br />
I'm leaving the stage race with several positive things going into my next event, the TransRockies Run in August. I learned to manage my effort better over consecutive days of running and finished feeling well on day three. I also learned that I could run on tired legs which will serve me well in Colorado. The next few weeks are going to be tough with lots of miles, but my confidence is high with just about two months to go. I just have to hang in there, train well and stay injury free.<br />
<br />
My race results for stage 3: 3:53:16, 67th overall, 61st male, 168 official finishers<br />
My race results for all three stages: 10:23:02, 81st overall, 72nd male, 168 official finishers<br />
<br />
Stage three course map and elevation chart, click <a href="http://www.rockcreek.com/outdoor/images/Stage%20Race%20Day%20Three.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
Stage three race results, click <a href="http://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=22671" target="_blank">here</a>. 3-day cumulative race results, click <a href="http://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=18992" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
View race photos courtesy of Jeff Bartlett and Rock/Creek, click <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rockcreek/sets/72157634157246183/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Other 2013 Chattanooga Stage Race reports:<br />
Hot Wing Runner: <a href="http://hotwingrunner.blogspot.com/2013/06/chattanooga-stage-races-2013-pool-balls.html">http://hotwingrunner.blogspot.com/2013/06/chattanooga-stage-races-2013-pool-balls.html</a><br />
The Ale Runner: <a href="http://thealerunner.com/2013/06/19/chattanooga-mountains-stage-race-recap/">http://thealerunner.com/2013/06/19/chattanooga-mountains-stage-race-recap/</a><br />
Run, Lala, Run: <a href="http://runlala.blogspot.com/2013/06/joyful-chattanooga-mountains-stage-race.html">http://runlala.blogspot.com/2013/06/joyful-chattanooga-mountains-stage-race.html</a><br />
Jason Green: <a href="http://bestpacescenario.blogspot.com/2013/06/dnf-chattanooga-mountains-stage-race.html">http://bestpacescenario.blogspot.com/2013/06/dnf-chattanooga-mountains-stage-race.html</a><br />
David Riddle: <a href="http://riddleruns.blogspot.com/2013/06/rockcreek-chattanooga-mountains-stage.html?showComment=1372079863291#c2630176842924214721" onclick="LinkshimAsyncLink.swap(this, "http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/l.php?u=http\u00253A\u00252F\u00252Friddleruns.blogspot.com\u00252F2013\u00252F06\u00252Frockcreek-chattanooga-mountains-stage.html\u00253FshowComment\u00253D1372079863291\u002523c2630176842924214721&h=0AQHQMIG1AQFT3WppMZ1ZM2Hgyyj0uzW6KApwsxAqjhxbFA&s=1");" onmouseover="LinkshimAsyncLink.swap(this, "http:\/\/riddleruns.blogspot.com\/2013\/06\/rockcreek-chattanooga-mountains-stage.html?showComment=1372079863291#c2630176842924214721");" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank"><span>http://</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span><span>riddleruns.blogspot.com/2013/</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span><span>06/</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span><span>rockcreek-chattanooga-mountains</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span><span>-stage.html?showComment=137207</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>9863291#c2630176842924214721</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com1Signal Mountain, TN, USA35.1225727 -85.34384879999998935.0186997 -85.505210299999987 35.2264457 -85.182487299999991tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-41463403915786764932013-06-15T13:19:00.001-07:002013-06-15T13:19:26.340-07:00Rock/Creek Stage Race: Day 2 Lookout Mountain 06.15.13<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QBfcVDwTycI/UbzK8I36QfI/AAAAAAAAH4I/uT1LVdFs9-Y/s1600/photo-54.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QBfcVDwTycI/UbzK8I36QfI/AAAAAAAAH4I/uT1LVdFs9-Y/s640/photo-54.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good day on the trails. Me shortly after finishing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Day two is done. I'm feeling it, but after a good half hour in the creek I cooled off and my legs are not too sore. Today's stage was fun and I always enjoy the variety in the terrain, especially after the gentler, more rolling course from yesterday. Here's how it went...<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kgvDSCs3ri4/UbzKPuAe8hI/AAAAAAAAH3g/eQ6OkGPcO0o/s1600/photo-50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kgvDSCs3ri4/UbzKPuAe8hI/AAAAAAAAH3g/eQ6OkGPcO0o/s200/photo-50.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Test drove the Salomon Mantras</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After taking a wrong turn on my way to the Lula Lake starting area, I arrived around 7:10 with plenty of time before the start. Every day we have to pick up a new bib. It's the same number, but a different color. Yesterday's bib was black, today's was blue. We'll see what we get tomorrow, but it'll probably be red. I got my number and bee lined toward the Salomon tent. Yesterday's experiment with a pair of Salomon's turned out alright and since my current shoes that I brought are trashed, I thought why not try another pair for today's stage. Tim from Salomon put me in a pair of Mantras and immediately they felt better than the Cross Max's I ran in yesterday. A much lighter shoe but not missing out on the tread and cushion. With bib number and shoes in hand, I went back to my car and got ready for today's stage. I stayed with my strategy of two hand held bottles and I'm glad I did.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2uN9_W2AfPU/UbzKgC-yNXI/AAAAAAAAH34/yGklJsMqJwg/s1600/9049941873_309b58c361_k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2uN9_W2AfPU/UbzKgC-yNXI/AAAAAAAAH34/yGklJsMqJwg/s320/9049941873_309b58c361_k.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Action shot. Courtesy of <br />Jeff Bartlett and Rock/Creek.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We lined up and took off right at 8:00am sharp. There were 205 official finishers in yesterday's stage, so I can only assume that the same number lined up today. We had about a mile of gravel road to stretch out which was nice. We passed Lula Falls on our left and it was a gorgeous sight. Once passed the falls we hit our one and only bottle neck. There's a steep, rope assisted climb up a cliff and it takes a bit for the single file to get up it. The last time I ran this race, there was a wasp nest wreaking havoc but they were no where to be found today, thankfully. Anyway, we made our way up and over the short cliff and got on single track up onto the ridge. I was running with Brian, who I finished the race with yesterday, and Brendan (@thealerunner on Twitter). We some what were together for most of the portion along the ridge. The views to our left were stunning over looking the valley below. Brendan even stopped at one point to snap a photo. Several people were still jockeying their position, but I felt like I had found my pace and I wanted to stick with it. It wasn't long before we were on our way off the ridge, down Turkey Trail and towards the creek. I had forgotten my watch again for this stage, so I had no idea on time. I'm learning that this may be a good thing if I'm trying to run conservatively. We made it down to the creek and ran along it for a short time, soon coming out at the first aid station which is the start/finish area. The first loop is 5-6 miles and I was feeling pretty good. I ate a salty potato, refilled one of my hand helds and took off up the hill.<br />
<br />
This portion of the race is all on the same course as the Lookout Mountain 50 that I ran back in 2010. That day, I took a wrong turn right at this point except that was about 40+ miles in on a 50 mile course. I was not about to miss my turn today and even shared that past experience with another runner. So we made our way up to the road, crossed it and kept going up hill. We crossed a creek that I didn't recall and then stayed with three other runners while we made our way up to the first powerline cut out. When we reached it, one of the runners mentioned that we were about an hour and a half into the race. In my head, I was thinking that I was doing pretty good since we were probably 8 or so miles into it.<br />
<br />
We crisscrossed the power line cut out a couple of times, took in a couple of hefty, but short climbs before coming back out onto the powerline cut out for a climb up to the second aid station. The sun was out, but despite my fears it actually wasn't too hot. My friend Jason was at the top and it was good to seeing him. Unfortunately, Jason missed the cut off of stage one, but he was out here cheering other runners on and volunteering as well. You have to admire that. At the aid station, I refilled my hand held, ate another salty potato and grabbed a PBJ and a piece of apple before heading down the trail.<br />
<br />
A guy I passed at the aid station soon caught up to me and he introduced himself. His name is Mark and he also lives in Atlanta. He mentioned that he had ready my blog (I'm glad some one reads this. Ha, ha!) I thanked him and we ran together for a few miles. Somehow I forgot that we would skirt Covenant College (the start/finish of the Lookout Mountain 50), until we ran along a technical trail along a creek and came out to a different powerline section. Then I realized that we were on the 50 miler course again. Once back under the tree canopy, we made our way down. At this point, we were about 13 or so miles in and I thought to myself that I needed to just cruise down this long descent. Mark got out in front of me and Lara who I had run with earlier (and who crossed the finish line just ahead of me yesterday) passed me as well. I would never totally lose either of them out of my sight, but it was enough to where I wasn't catching back up to them.<br />
<br />
We finished the descent, crossed a road and then kept going down back to the first aid station. While descending, we could hear the PA announcing the faster finishers and as we came out into the clearing we could see runners finishing while we still had to finish up a 6 mile loop. I fueled up at the aid station, crossed the foot bridge and ran along the creek. Some where along here, I kicked it in to a higher gear. We ran a single track for a while where I put a little distance between me and some runners and then started the last big climb of the day. I actually ran most of it, only walking the last few yards at the top before getting on the ridge. Again, it was hard not to look to the right and enjoy the amazing views. Mark who had stayed in front of me was just a few dozen yards ahead. I wasn't sure if I would catch him. I arrived on the thin trail that led to the cliff with the rope and all of a sudden I passed Mark and there was another runner just in front of me who I could tell was not running at his best. We all used the rope to get off the cliff and when we hit the gravel road near the falls, I took off.<br />
<br />
In 2011, this part threw me off because I thought we would finish on the gravel road, but I was prepared this time for the detour. The course took us on a more technical trail along the creek. Here I caught several people to my surprise, even my buddy John Dove. I had pep in my step and decided to finish strong. I crossed the creek and knew that I had half a mile at the most left. I was surprised at how well I felt and inside was hoping that it wouldn't come back to bite me in tomorrow's stage but we'll find out then. I crossed the finish line at 3:31 and then stuck around to high five a few of the runners that I had run with in the latter part of the race.<br />
<br />
I found out that David Riddle won today's stage as well although he did not set a course record this time. I'm sure if he runs it again, that it won't stand for long. I had a chance to chat with him after the race and thanked him for the Q&A he did a few months back for this blog. Very nice guy!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_KrPSn2aEyc/UbzKhvIDURI/AAAAAAAAH4A/rljt07fZTSY/s1600/photo-53.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_KrPSn2aEyc/UbzKhvIDURI/AAAAAAAAH4A/rljt07fZTSY/s200/photo-53.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hanging out in the creek.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Because this stage is on private property, there are no park rangers to discourage alcohol, so the race provides several coolers of beer as well as water and sports drink. I grabbed an IPA, a bowl of pasta and headed to the creek to sit in the cool water for a while. I wasn't the only one.<br />
<br />
I'm looking forward to tomorrow's stage. I feel like I did reserve myself pretty well today even after picking up my pace in the last several miles. I just want to do better on day three than the first time I ran this event. We'll see.<br />
<br />
My race results: 3:31:08, 84th over all, 74th male, 195 official finishers (under the five hour cut off)<br />
<br />
Stage two course map and elevation chart, click <a href="http://www.rockcreek.com/outdoor/images/Stage%20Race%20Day%20Two.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
Stage two race results, click <a href="http://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=22670" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
View race photos courtesy of Jeff Bartlett and Rock/Creek, click <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rockcreek/sets/72157634139704133/with/9049941547/" target="_blank">here</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com0Lula Falls, Georgia 30738, USA34.932854200000008 -85.3719032999999859.4108197000000082 -126.68049729999998 60.454888700000012 -44.063309299999986tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-18286141870658548052013-06-14T12:48:00.003-07:002013-06-15T13:25:10.244-07:00Rock/Creek Stage Race: Day 1 Raccoon Mountain 06.14.13<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dRISWNsYE2Q/UbtxrYgLxEI/AAAAAAAAH14/4P_BJMXzROs/s1600/9041760729_672b43aed3_k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dRISWNsYE2Q/UbtxrYgLxEI/AAAAAAAAH14/4P_BJMXzROs/s640/9041760729_672b43aed3_k.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stage one race start. Photo courtesy of Jeff Bartlett and Rock/Creek</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
First day is done. I purposely did not go back and reread my race report from a couple of years ago, the last time I ran the stage race. Just so that I would have a fresh perspective for today. But once I got out on the course, I couldn't help reliving some of it obviously. It was a better than expected morning on the trails, much of it because I feel better prepared going in than I have felt for any race in a while, but also because the weather gods were a little on our side and didn't crank up the heat until after the stage race was over.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-60HwdneTH2k/UbtzX4YyQAI/AAAAAAAAH2g/jyS8ra8iHYA/s1600/photo-46.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-60HwdneTH2k/UbtzX4YyQAI/AAAAAAAAH2g/jyS8ra8iHYA/s200/photo-46.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bib #33. Cool Marmot race shirt too!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I've learned that in Chattanooga distances are not that far. So this morning I took my time getting ready and leaving the hotel. I had picked up my race packet the night before so I had everything I needed. My bib number was 33. A good number since it made me think of Larry Bird and Tony Dorsett. Good company, I thought. I arrived at the first day's start line area with plenty of time to kill. I'm a little bummed that my friend, Mike, couldn't make it, but I stopped by the packet pick up and got his race shirt for him. I hope to give it him in Colorado when we see each other in August for the TransRockies Run. After picking up his shirt, I ran into another buddy who now works for Salomon and realized that he was letting people try on a pair of shoes on the course. Normally, I wouldn't try anything new on race day, but being that my current trail shoes were pretty trashed and that I haven't had a chance to get a new pair, I slipped on a pair of Salomon Cross Max's and that's what I ran the race in hoping that I wouldn't regret it. I dropped off Mike's shirt at the car, chatted with other runners for a bit and then timed the trip to the porta-john with just a few minutes to spare for the race start.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nUFSWKLtTsM/Ubty250RzhI/AAAAAAAAH2Y/7zYnMBaEymA/s1600/9043986284_821b3d2e5d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nUFSWKLtTsM/Ubty250RzhI/AAAAAAAAH2Y/7zYnMBaEymA/s200/9043986284_821b3d2e5d.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me before the race.<br />
Photo Jeff Bartlett.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If I have one complaint about this particular stage, it's the start. I've run several of the Rock/Creek races and I love how well they're organized, but man, it sure would be nice if they made us do a lap in the parking lot or something before putting us all on the single track trail. There's probably less than a hundred yards before the trail and well, it bottles up instantaneously. Every one kept calm and just did their best to single file it onto the trail. Surprisingly, the portion of the trail convoy I ended up in turned out to keep its pecking order for a good while. I didn't pass anyone and very few passed me. I was behind two runners who I would share the trail with for the first hour or so. In fact, I was appreciating the pace and I was trying hard to keep it easy and steady. I forgot my running watch back at the hotel, so I was clueless as to the time. While approaching the East Overlook aid station at mile 4.7, I asked the runner in front of me what his watch showed and he said 52 minutes and change. I liked what I heard. That meant I was running 11+ minute miles. Nice and easy.<br />
<br />
We went through the first aid station. For me, just enough to refill one of my hand helds. I was concerned about the heat, so I was running with two bottles, one with nuun and the other with just water. I stuck with the water for most of the race. I finished with some still left in the nuun bottle. I did a good job with hydration for this race which I hope will pay me back on the next two days. Anyway back to running, I stayed with the two runners from the earlier section and we picked up a few more folks. We all stayed pretty much together for the next few miles until the next aid station. I was feeling strong and still feeling like I was conserving myself. We came off the single track trail and crossed a lawn towards the aid station at mile eight. I popped a GU, drank some Coke and jumped back onto the trail.<br />
<br />
The next section is a lot of fun. It's called the small intestines and it's easy to see why. It's twisty with lots of turns and little switchbacks. At one point, you can look up and see runners to your left on trails above you and runners to the right on trails below. At this point, I had some how picked up other runners and we ended up chatting for a while. This went on for a few miles until some where along the way, I think just after the small intestines section, I passed the runner in front of me while she decided to walk a hill and then I was alone for a while. I was feeling good and decided to pick up the pace a bit. That's when I started passing people at first only by coincidence, but later by design.<br />
<br />
We hit a long climb, the only one in this stage, and I ran most of it. I knew that I had to hold off a bit, but I figured I had been good for the first half and thought why not have some fun on the second half. It wasn't long before I arrived at the last aid station at mile 13 or so. Less than five miles to go. "Let's do this!", I thought to myself. It seems that there was another guy who had the same thought I did. His name is Brian and at first I was just tagging along behind him, but as we both passed several people together, we started to chat a bit. While talking, we came in and out of the tree canopy by the dam and I was commenting how grateful I was that we didn't have to run for long out in the open. The sun was up high by now and it would be miserable to stay exposed to it. Back under the tree canopy, we could see a female runner a few dozen yards in front of us. I mentioned that we were near the finish and both of us picked it up to catch her. We caught her but didn't pass her, because we came off the trail and were back on the asphalt. Knowing that there were just a few yards to go, we all stayed together. Lara was the female runner's name and she ran out ahead of us a bit right before the finish line. Brian and I came in side by side.<br />
<br />
I looked back at the clock and I realized I ran a sub-three hour race. Then I tried to think back on two years earlier and I thought that I may have beaten my previous time. That sounds good normally, but when you have two more days to race and last time I burned out on day three, I immediately got a little worried that maybe I went too fast. However, I looked up my time from 2011 and I ran a 2:40 (it was much cooler that year too) and this year I ran a 2:58. Hopefully, I kept enough in the tank for days two and three.<br />
<br />
David Riddle won the day's stage and annihilated the course record with a blazing 1:52:51! He wasn't the only fast guy though, up to five runners came in at sub-two hours.<br />
<br />
I hung out at the finish line and saw several friends among them John Dove, Todd Henderson and others. I returned the Salomon shoes I ran in (just one little hot spot), grabbed something to eat and then sat in one of the kiddie pools for an ice bath. Capped it all off with a couple of beers. I had a good time on the trails, met some really cool people and I can't wait for tomorrow. My only disappointment was that a few friends didn't make the cut off.<br />
<br />
My race results: 2:58:38, 109th over all, 92nd male, 205 official finishers (under the four hour cut off)<br />
<br />
Stage one course map and elevation chart, click <a href="http://www.rockcreek.com/outdoor/images/Stage%20Race%20Day%20One.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
Stage one race results, click <a href="http://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=22669" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
View race photos courtesy of Jeff Bartlett and Rock/Creek, click <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rockcreek/sets/72157634122091069/" target="_blank">here</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com0Raccoon Mountain, Tennessee 37419, USA35.0472981 -85.50579640000000834.8394356 -85.8285199 35.255160599999996 -85.183072900000013tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-82993719710703194962013-06-13T09:40:00.000-07:002013-06-13T15:20:12.179-07:00Race Preview: 2013 Rock/Creek Chattanooga Stage RaceThree days on the trails with a bunch of other trail runners sounds like fun, right? Well, that’s what I’m in for this weekend when racing in Chattanooga at the Rock/Creek Stage Race; three beautiful, but challenging, stages on the best trails that Chattanooga has to offer. I ran this race back in 2011 and I knew then I’d be back. This year I have extra motivation to run it since it will be a good tune up for my TransRockies Run training.<br />
<br />
Day one is 18 miles at Raccoon Mountain. It’s the easiest of the three days but not just because of the distance, but because the terrain is the most forgiving of the three locations. The course is mostly single track trail, some of it mountain bike worn, along rolling hillside around the reservoir. The tendency is to race this stage hard, but the smart stage racer will go conservative and save some for day two and three. View course map and elevation chart <a href="http://www.rockcreek.com/outdoor/images/Stage%20Race%20Day%20One.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Day two is 22 miles at Lookout Mountain. The highlight on this day is running past Lula Falls. It’s rained quite a bit this spring, so hopefully the falls will be going strong. We get to run by them twice, so it will become a familiar site. This day brings a lot more climbing than the day before. The quads will be hurting at the end of the day with all the down hill running. The best part is the dip in the creek after crossing the finish line. View course map and elevation chart <a href="http://www.rockcreek.com/outdoor/images/Stage%20Race%20Day%20Two.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Day three is 20 miles at Signal Mountain. Not the longest of the three days, but undoubtedly the toughest. When I ran this in 2011, it took me an hour and a half longer to run this stage than day one did and it’s only two miles longer. Now granted, I also had 40 miles on my legs from the previous two days, but this day’s stage has some tough rocky trails in sections and if it’s hot, you pay for it. View course map and elevation chart <a href="http://www.rockcreek.com/outdoor/images/Stage%20Race%20Day%20Three.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
The weather forecast is not looking favorable for me. In 2011, we had unusual cool temperatures, especially on day one. This weekend calls for mid to high 80’s for a high with day three pushing into the 90’s. I’ll be running with two hand held bottles, but still relying on the aid stations heavily for hydration. <br />
<br />
Despite the warm temperatures, my training has been good and I just need to remember that this is more of a training weekend. I have to keep my eye on the bigger prize which is the six day stage race in Colorado in August and my hundred in November. Check back as I’ll be blogging after each stage race this weekend.<br />
<br />
Check out the official Rock Creek Chattanooga Stage Race video:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/zAG2Mx1uMEw?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-60622682802501691002013-03-20T13:56:00.000-07:002013-03-20T14:00:31.567-07:00I'm a Trail Casualty: Georgia Death Race 03.16.13<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fVWoSP2TSQk/UUkR2JilUpI/AAAAAAAAHw0/Ah4HHNLt9fM/s1600/BFdn3DPCEAA7X5l.jpg-large.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fVWoSP2TSQk/UUkR2JilUpI/AAAAAAAAHw0/Ah4HHNLt9fM/s640/BFdn3DPCEAA7X5l.jpg-large.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dave, me, Dustin, Brack and Drew before the start of the Georgia Death Race</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm a trail casualty of the <a href="http://www.georgiadeathrace.com/" target="_blank">Georgia Death Race</a>. There I've said it. I dropped out at mile 25. Done. Fork stuck in my back. In hind sight, I'm good with it, just like I was fine with the decision during the race despite my buddy, Brack's demands to keep going. Truth is, I knew when I signed up that it was totally unrealistic to truly be ready for this race in time. But I admit that I got caught up in the hype of the race and I wanted to be a part of its inaugural edition. With 60-ish miles on some of the toughest terrain in North Georgia, it was hard to not pay attention. I <a href="http://anecdotesfromthetrail.blogspot.com/2012/10/trail-race-spotlight-georgia-death-race.html" target="_blank">interviewed Sean "Run Bum" Blanton</a> back in October and even got more excited about the race.<br />
<br />
I can list three reasons why I ended up "trail kill" this past weekend: 1) I somehow managed to do well at the Mt. Mist 50K despite very low mileage going into that race. While I know that a 50K can't compare to a 100K, I obviously developed a false sense of confidence that if I could wing the first, I could at least make an attempt at the latter only six weeks later. Not! 2) I started off way too fast. It was exciting to be on the course in the dark with almost 200 fellow trail running buddies on some of the most challenging trails in Georgia. I paid for it in 25 not so short miles. It took me over seven and a half hours to cover the distance, but I lost the most time in the second half of the distance. I should have been more conservative. 3) It's simply hard as shit. <a href="http://anecdotesfromthetrail.blogspot.com/2011/03/duncan-ridge-trail-fun-run-030911.html" target="_blank">I've run the Duncan Ridge Trail before.</a> I know how tough it is (which is why I was so intrigued by this race), but I did not respect it and I paid for it. Hence, the drop at mile 25.<br />
<br />
Despite everything, it was a great day for trail running. Let me rewind and share how it went for me up until leaving the race at Point Bravo (mile 25).<br />
<br />
Brack, Drew, Dustin and Dave picked me up at work on Friday afternoon and we headed up to Vogel State Park. About ten miles from the park, we got stuck in traffic. <a href="http://www.accessnorthga.com/detail.php?n=259380" target="_blank">Unfortunately, a female cyclist from Cumming, GA was coming down the road from Neels Gap and was ht by a car.</a> It shut down the road for several hours while authorities investigated the accident scene. In the meantime, we were late along with several others for the scheduled 7pm obligatory race meeting. We arrived in the park around 7:45pm, checked in with our mandatory gear, picked up bibs, listen to Sean's instructions and then immediately headed off to the cabin to get some sleep.<br />
<br />
Wake up call was for 2:45am, but most of us didn't sleep very much. We ate, got dressed, double checked our gear and went down to check in for the race start. 182 runners were all amped and ready to get started. Everyone was anxiously awaiting the start and supporting each other with best wishes for an awesome day. We lined up on the park road while Sean shared a few prepared words, "It was the worse of times. It was the best of times..." and I honestly don't recall much else. All I know is that at 4:03am, we were off. The first mile of the race was relatively flat at first with just a slight incline once on single track trail. The line of headlamps in the dark made for an entertaining visual. Brack and Drew went out ahead of me and I soon lost Justin and Dave behind me. When we reached highway 180 and crossed it, we hit a long descent that I think had many of us, myself included, go out a bit fast. I've run or hiked the Coosa Backcountry trail many times, but this was my first time running on it in the dark.<br />
<br />
We crossed a creek, then a forest road before starting the long climb up to Coosa Bald. When the climbing started that's when the crowd started breaking up and thinning out. About half way up, it was just me another runner that I would end up running with on and off over the next 18 miles although I never got his name. The wind started to pick up as we neared the top, but luckily the temps were not cold at all. In fact, the temps were perfect in the 40's and sky over head was clear. A much better scene than the one a couple of weeks earlier just a few miles away during the Double Top 100 where snow ended up shutting that race down.<br />
<br />
When we reached the top of Coosa Bald and got on the Duncan Ridge Trail about 7 miles into the race, it was only a mile to go until the first aid station. I have to admit that going into the race, I was concerned about how well the aid stations would be manned and stocked. Inaugural races can have their hiccups, but I'm happy to report that the Georgia Death Race had well stocked aid stations and plenty of volunteers.<br />
<br />
I grabbed something to eat and took off down the trail. About a mile or so down the trail, I saw two headlamps coming at me. It ended up being Brack and Drew and they both ran by me unknowingly. They doubted the trail because they hadn't seen a ribbon marker for a few yards. I heard them but I didn't have a chance to stop them before they were out of sight. I shrugged my shoulders and kept going. While its true that there had been a lack of markers on this section, the fact is that there is no other possible trail. The one we were on was the only option. I stuck with this thought and was soon rewarded with a ribbon marker to secure my confidence. I was running well through this section of the Duncan Ridge Trail. Perhaps too well.<br />
<br />
The trail wound its way up onto the ridge and I had to make my way through a tight double back where I was running on a muddy, slippery trail with a sharp drop to my right. I focused on keeping my headlamp on the trail and putting one foot in front of the other while trying not to think of potentially slipping and dropping off to no where next to me. I got through this section and soon caught up to another runner, someone I knew from other races, Dave Carter. We ran together for a little ways and went over two Duncan Ridge Trail summits together before I pulled ahead on my own. The skies were starting to brighten and I eventually started descending into Mulky Gap and the next aid station at mile 13-ish of the course.<br />
<br />
After refueling at Mulky Gap, I left the aid station and made my way straight up the trail on a long ascent. The sun was coming out. As I made my way, I was recalling the last time I was on this section of trail while sweeping the Duncan Ridge Trail 50K back in November. I ended up not finishing the job then due to an injured ankle. Not a good memory. This section between Mulky Gap and Fish Gap is pretty tough, but nothing compared to the trail after Fish Gap. About three miles after leaving the last aid station, the crazy, steep climbing really began. Brack and Drew who had past me in the opposite direction a couple of hours earlier had caught up to me and run slightly ahead although I managed to keep them within sight for a few miles.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LvLJ7P0zAao/UUoiHWEWuqI/AAAAAAAAHx8/jliyvpg3pzc/s1600/photo-25.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LvLJ7P0zAao/UUoiHWEWuqI/AAAAAAAAHx8/jliyvpg3pzc/s320/photo-25.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Of course, the photo doesn't <br />
do this climb justice.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
While we all tackled the tough little Duncan Ridge summits together, we started seeing signs on the trees that at first I didn't realize were left behind by Sean, the race director. The first sign I noticed said, "Don't feed the bears or the axe murderers." Shortly after that and on one of the climbs, I came on to a sign that read, "You're almost done with the climbing. You got this!", only to then find another sign just a few yards ahead that read something like, "Not a chance. It keeps going and going." Need less to say, the only thing more inspirational would have been to have Sean standing at the top of each summit just laughing at us. The three or four miles between Fish Gap and the drop down to Skeenah Gap are hard...really hard. It's not easy to put into words. There's no reprieve at any point. You are either going straight up or you are going quad-busting downhill. I kept hoping that the next aid station would come soon, but little did I realize that it would preempt one of the toughest climbs of the day.<br />
<br />
Where the Duncan Ridge Trail meets up with the Benton McKaye trail, the combined trail continues westward and the Benton McKaye goes northward. The race took us down the Benton McKaye to Skeenah Gap before turning around at the aid station at the bottom and climbing bak up to continue westward bound. Heading down to the aid station, I ran into those runners that were ahead of me and heaing back up to the ridge. I saw John Dove and he was shaking his head. He let me know that it was about a mile straight down, approximately 800 feet to the aid station. Something to look forward to. As I went down the trail, my legs were definitely feeling the earlier climbs and descents. I was ready to get something to eat and catch my breath. I arrived at the aid station and took my time refilling my pack bladder and grabbing something to eat. Ashley (@AshRuns100s) was managing the aid station with other volunteers. Someone asked her how much farther to the next aid station. She said over six which didn't match what was earlier reported. Because this aid station was supposed to be at 20 miles of the course, but if she was right that would put Point Bravo at mile 26. Not a big difference, but not encouraging either.<br />
<br />
I left the aid station and started the climb back. It sucked. It took what ever I had left, chewed it up and spit it out. Once I arrived back to the ridge, I just wanted to get to Point Bravo and see how I felt. Although the thought of dropping started to creep into my head. The miles between Skeenah Gap and Point Bravo at highway 80 took forever, but probably not as long for me as it was for two other runners that both passed me in the opposite direction. Both grumbling under their breath about missing the turn down to Skeenah Gap, but not realizing it until a few miles down the trail. I felt bad for them both.<br />
<br />
The last couple of climbs on the way to Point Bravo are not as steep as the earlier ones before Skeenah Gap, but that doesn't make them easy. I finally started a final descent and I could hear the traffic on the road below. Normally, I would have picked up my pace encouraged by the noise below, but my legs were shot. Down and down I went, and I could only think about getting my pack off and stopping. I finally made it to the bottom and crossed a short wooden bridge where I could see the Point Bravo aid station and all the family and friends of other runners. My dad and brother had come up to crew for me the rest of the day, but they were surprised when I told them that I was done. Of course, they supported my decision. Brack and Drew who had both gone ahead of me earlier were at the aid station and I was surprised to see them. I let them know that I was dropping out. Drew just patted my back and as mentioned earlier, Brack tried to encourage me to keep going. I probably could have gone on for a bit more, but it would have been avoiding the unavoidable and I knew what was yet to come. Besides, it would be another 15 miles or so before I could meet up with my dad and my brother. I made the right decision.<br />
<br />
Looking back, it was still a great day on an incredible trail. I was bummed to miss out on my buddy Aaron's bacon stop at mile 47. The guy cooked like 7 lbs. of bacon and it was gone apparently. Next year's race is on March 14-15 and who knows, maybe I'll come back for redemption. I have to keep my eye on the prize this year with TransRockies in August and possibly Pinhoti 100 in November first. I take my hat off to Sean and all the volunteers. The race seemed to go smoothly, at least from what I experienced. I did hear later that the course was a bit long. Maybe Horton Miles are now Blanton Miles.<br />
<br />
Drew ended up dropping out at mile 40. Brack finished with 18:30 (even after spending like an hour and a half at the mile 47 aid station) and Dave and Dustin also finished but around 20:45. I'm glad that those guys earned their Georgia Death Race spikes.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-83yM_ySoWHY/UUohiFLDgeI/AAAAAAAAHx0/vSoPfM5iHrg/s1600/BFlZkuZCQAAUwMr.jpg-large.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-83yM_ySoWHY/UUohiFLDgeI/AAAAAAAAHx0/vSoPfM5iHrg/s400/BFlZkuZCQAAUwMr.jpg-large.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Georgia Death Race finisher's spike. I'll have to earn mine another time.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-17469643927333182892013-02-26T17:52:00.000-08:002013-02-26T17:54:36.100-08:00Ultra runner spotlight: Joe Fejes<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b0HdUh2Y2R0/US1maQsYlsI/AAAAAAAAHwg/ng5FbrFSBOY/s1600/546256_543480578997638_1338379078_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b0HdUh2Y2R0/US1maQsYlsI/AAAAAAAAHwg/ng5FbrFSBOY/s640/546256_543480578997638_1338379078_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joe Fejes at Across The Years. He wore this shirt so that friends and family back home could identify him on the race web cam. (Photo: Low Country Ultras Facebook page.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">In just a few short years, <a href="http://ultrasignup.com/results_participant.aspx?fname=Joe&lname=Fejes" target="_blank">Joe Fejes</a> has managed to put his name in ultra running lore in a major way. On New Year's Day this year, he broke the record for the longest distance run at the 72 hour (yes, 72 hour) race in Arizona called the <a href="http://www.aravaiparunning.com/acrosstheyears/" target="_blank">Across The Years</a> by running an incredible 329 miles! That's after a 280 mile rookie attempt the year before. Just a couple of weeks ago, he broke more records in Destin, FL when he set the Guinness World Record of running the most miles on sand in 24 hours. He's won or stood on the podium for countless races as well.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">I first met Joe a couple of years ago when he would occasionally run with our humble Wednesday morning group and drive over 40 miles at 6am to do so. Even then, all he could talk about was about racing and he was always asking questions about others racing. He ran several trail ultras before he finally found his groove with timed loop courses and he has been excelling at them ever since. A humble runner, you'll be hearing a lot more from this guy in the years to come. Oh, and he's only 47 years old!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Joe took some questions and here are his responses...</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><b><i>Describe what it was like to race for 24 hours in the sand and how did you prepare for it?</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Running 134 miles in 24 hours in the sand was really challenging. Connie Gardner commented after the race that she thought the Destin 24 hour in the sand was as difficult as running Badwater. The weather was chilly--low 30’s and we had a wind advisory of 15-30 mph gusts. I wore a windbreaker vest and long sleeve tech shirt to help with the cool and windy weather. I loved the 7 pm start time on Saturday night as it made running in the cold windy conditions much easier since I had relatively fresh legs during the coldest hours. I also did not experience any difficulties with sleep deprivation since I was well rested for the normally difficult 3 am -6 am time slot. Once the morning came and the sun came up it was mentally refreshing especially with the beachgoers who were cheering and shouting encouragement each lap. The camber of the sand made for an awkward running style and the soft sand for each 1 mile lap turnaround made it oftentimes a plodding effort. I tripped several times on the ridges that developed from the beach erosion and tidal changes. The good news is I was dialed in mentally and physically for most of the race and believe I was as in good condition for the event as any event I have run the past several years. My heart rate and breathing felt great from the beginning and I ran much faster for the 50 (7:30) and 100 mile (16:05) splits than I had planned—actually about an hour and a half faster for both. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Preparation for the event was really a continuation of the training regimen that I have been doing the past six months. I have been focusing on shorter two a day workouts with a 6-8 mile am run and a 4-8 mile pm run a few times a week. I have also incorporated a weekly fast 8 mile tempo run and hill repeats from time to time. My training the past 3 weeks before the event was spot on. I had raced a 5k (18:01) and a 10k (36:01) a couple of weeks prior and I knew I had plenty of leg speed to have a good day. I had no injuries and was really looking forward to running hard on race day.</span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 12.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b><i>What exactly is the record you now hold in the official Guinness Book of World Records and how does it feel to have it?</i></b></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 12.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b><i></i></b></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.0px;">It is my understanding that I now hold the record for the longest distance run in the sand for 24 hours. The old official record was 83 miles set by Christian Burke in the Hermosa 24 hour sand run in California although I believe Patrick Sweeney has unofficially run 94 miles there too. I am not sure however how the Destin and Hermatosa courses compare to each other. The Hermosa is run in July so the warm summertime temperatures could make it tough. I also don’t know how many other runners in the US or other countries have actually attempted to run 24 hours in the sand. If Mike Morton wasn’t injured and had run the race I most likely would have lost by 50k. In any event the record should be taken with a grain of sand.</span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 12.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.0px;">It is always nice to hold a record although I was really more satisfied with my effort level rather than breaking the Guinness record. I felt like I ran as hard (if not harder) at Destin as I did a few months ago when I ran 156 miles in 24 hours at Desert Solstice on the track in Phoenix Arizona.</span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 12.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><b><i>Speaking of records, this past New Year’s Day you broke the course record at Across the Years running 329 miles in 72 hours. Describe your experience. How did you stay motivated for three days. What was your nutrition like? Did you ever want to stop?</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">You can read my full race report for Across The Year's on my buddy Christian Griffiths' blog, <a href="http://run100miles.com/race-reports/joe-fejes-329-miles/" target="_blank">here</a>. I stayed motivated by thinking about the race 24/7/365 since I came up short with only 280 miles last year. I knew if the weather was cool that I could run 300+ miles. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Nutrition-the first 12-16 hours during a 24 hour race is a critical period for me for nutrition. I usually have stomach issues when I am running hard early on and/or if the weather is warm. I relied primarily on Boost drinks, Coke, water and bananas for Day 1. Day 2 my stomach settled and I was able to eat virtually any and all real food that was offered by the aid stations. I also enjoyed the Succeed ultra drink that has a light orange tasting flavor that is much easier to handle than Gatorade or Powerade.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Did I ever want to stop? H<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">ell yeah!!—always do and always will during virtually any ultra event!!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><b><i>Go back in time, how did you get into the world of ultras and when and how did you realize that time courses were your best fit?</i></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">A few years ago I ran the Blue Ridge Relay with 5 other guys and found that I liked running at night. I ran approximately six legs totaling 40 miles and thought it would be neat to try something longer. A few months later I entered the inaugural Pinhoti 100 mile trail run notwithstanding I had never run a 50k or any other ultra. I dnf’d at mile 80 when my right hip flexor seized up and I couldn’t lift my leg or walk. The good news (or bad depending on your perspective) is that I was now hooked n ultras.</span><br />
<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">I ran my first 24 hour at Black Mountain Monster a d won the race with 116 miles. I then ran Hinson Lake 24 hour and finished 2</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><sup>nd</sup></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"> behind Mike Morton with 132 miles. I learned a few days later that if I could run 140+ miles I had a shot at making the US 24 hour team. Although I thought my chances of actually making the team were slim I felt like I could run 140+ under ideal conditions. I therefore set out to improve my performance by training harder and working on the little things (weight loss, less breaks during race, better nutrition, etc.)</span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><b><i>You had the chance to represent the USA last year at the IAU World 24 Hour Run Championships in Katowice, Poland and helped the USA take third in team standings. What was the experience like and what can you share about your teammates Mike Morton, Harvey Lewis and others?</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Representing the USA in the World Championship is surreal. It is difficult to describe the emotions I felt wearing the USA jersey and toeing the line with World Class athletes such as Yiannis Korous and Mike Morton as well as many others. I kept wondering if it was a dream and questioning what the hell Joe Fejes was doing there. I did however make a pact with myself before the start that I would run my ass off in case my performance could in anyway contribute to the team’s success. I was an alternate that was running in the #6 spot so I had very little expectations or pressure to perform well. The atmosphere of a World Championship is electric and super charged—adrenaline rush for sure.</span><br />
<ol style="list-style-type: decimal;">
</ol>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 18.0px; min-height: 12.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Mike Morton-warrior, humble, quiet--motivates by actions, possesses unbelievable mental toughness and physical talent--little wonder he is in the Special Forces. <span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 18.0px; min-height: 12.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 18.0px;">
<span style="font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Harvey Lewis-probably has the biggest motor on the team, fierce competitor, loves to run fast, lookout this year- I expect even bigger miles out of him.</span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 18.0px; min-height: 12.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 18.0px;">
<span style="font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Phil McCarthy-great roommate, consummate professional, veteran of many World Championships, American record holder in 48 hours, quiet, he will be missed on this year’s team.</span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 18.0px; min-height: 12.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 18.0px;">
<span style="font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Serge Arbona-consistent, tall powerful runner, quiet, focused, capable of 160+ miles.</span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 18.0px; min-height: 12.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 18.0px;">
<span style="font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Jonathan Savage-encyclopedia of running knowledge, always experimenting-- always looking for ways to run better, he will also be missed on this year’s team.</span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 18.0px; min-height: 12.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b><i>What’s next on your racing calendar and what are you most looking forward to in 2013?</i></b></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 12.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I am running the Palm 100k on March 23 in Fort Lauderdale and the Draggin Tail 50k in Bristol Florida on April 6 as tune ups for the 24 Hour World Championship that will be held on May 11 in Steenbergen Netherlands. The USA team is loaded with talent this year with Mike Morton and Harvey Lewis returning along with Jon Olsen and newcomers Nick Coury and Scott Traer. I am also super excited and very scared of attempting my first six day race in December at Across the Years in Phoenix. The three day event beat the hell out of me and I am not sure how I will fare over six days. </span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 18.0px; min-height: 12.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><b><i>What would you recommend to someone training and preparing for a 24 hour race?</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Training- (1) Lose weight. (2) Run a bunch--I would recommend a minimum of 50 miles a week consistently over 6-7 days. I usually top out at about 90 miles a week primarily getting my miles in via two a day runs of 8 miles in the am and pm. I also recommend incorporating into your training dedicated hill repeats, tempo runs and speedwork. I do not believe in tapering other than cutting back slightly on your miles- I run up until race day. (3) Race strategy is key into maximizing your mileage—you need to stay on the course as much as possible moving forward—no time for chit chat. If you take a break during the race make sure it is planned for a purpose (potty, food, drink, rest legs, etc.) and keep it to a minimum. I also recommend that you have a race plan. I usually have simple benchmarks: 3:45 first marathon; 7:15 (50 miles); 78 miles (12 hours); 15:30 (100 miles), “balls out” last 8 hours. (4) Weight training-if you can find the time it doesn’t hurt to condition your core and supporting muscles just to give you a mental edge that you are fit from a whole body perspective; (5) Plenty of sleep the last few days before a race. </span><br />
<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><b><i>Joe, thanks so much for taking the time to answer a few questions and good luck this year. I have no doubt that you will accomplish all of your goals.</i></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Javi, thanks again for giving me the opportunity to talk shop on your blog. Looking forward to running with you in 2013.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-74748431895124695802013-02-11T04:37:00.002-08:002013-02-14T09:34:46.689-08:00Trail runner Spotlight: David Riddle<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0SectDZ8Ss4/URhUHfflprI/AAAAAAAAHvw/tr4RYq4rIc0/s1600/MtnMist2013_finish_byEricCharette.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0SectDZ8Ss4/URhUHfflprI/AAAAAAAAHvw/tr4RYq4rIc0/s640/MtnMist2013_finish_byEricCharette.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">David Riddle crosses the finish at the 2013 Mt. Mist 50K setting a new course record with a 3:36! Photo: Eric Charette</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
I first heard of David Riddle when he won the Stump Jump 50K in 2011. I ran that race too, and when I arrived at the finish line and learned that someone had not only set a course record, but had also gone sub-four for the first time in the race's then ten year history, I was blown away. Soon after that, it seemed that I would read about David every where. As you'll read below, he had quite a year in 2012. Then a couple of weeks ago, I would once again run a race that David would win and also set a course record with a 3:46! This year's, Mountain Mist 50K in Huntsville, AL.</div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
I had a chance to ask David a few questions and you can read his responses below. I'm grateful to David for taking the time for this Q&A. He's an amazing runner, and a humble one at that despite his accomplishments. You'll be hearing a lot more from this guy in the future.</div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
Hi Dave, How did you get into the world of ultras and trail running and what motivated you to do so?</div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
<i>I started running competitively many years ago on my 7th grade track team. I continued racing on the track, roads, and cross-country courses, gradually improving as I progressed through high school, college (at Auburn), grad school, and then post-collegiately. After college, I tried for a few years to qualify for the US Olympic Marathon Trials, but they lowered the standard from 2:22 to 2:19 around that same time. Although I was able to win the 2009 Rocket City Marathon, my 2:26 finishing time and PR left me far from the trials standard. I grew up just outside of Huntsville, and had moved back after college to begin my career as an aerospace engineer. The passionate ultra runners living in the area (think Dink Taylor, Dewayne Satterfield, Rob Youngren, etc.) started rubbing off on me, and it wasn't long before I was running on the trails. I jumped into a Fat Ass 50k as a long run one day with that attitude that I could drop out whenever I felt like it. I never dropped and broke the course record. I guess my personality just meshes really well with the running lifestyle. Trails and ultras were just another way to continue enjoying the sport and improving myself.</i></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
You just came off a course record setting win at the Mountain Mist 50K. How do you feel about this win and given this year's muddy conditions, do you see yourself coming back to Monte Sano for yet another record attempt on hopefully a drier course?</div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
<i>I feel really great after the win at Mtn Mist this year. I think that was my best race in almost a year. It's a huge confidence boost and shows that I have a great combination of strength and speed right now. I don't think the muddy conditions affected me too much. The trail was actually drier than I was expecting. It could have been a very different experience for those father back in the pack as the trail tends to get chewed up quickly, but it was in pretty good shape for me. I plan to continue coming back to Mtn Mist simply because it's basically my hometown 50k, but breaking my new course record is going to be really tough. I'd also like to get a 10 year finisher jacket, so you'll see me running in the Mist again.</i></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_qmyzkPIaDo/URhVHC0TJxI/AAAAAAAAHv8/hYLUPNSX6GE/s1600/riddle_henshaw_2012World100k_byDarrylSchaffer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_qmyzkPIaDo/URhVHC0TJxI/AAAAAAAAHv8/hYLUPNSX6GE/s320/riddle_henshaw_2012World100k_byDarrylSchaffer.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Riddle and Henshaw lead the pack at the <br />'12 IAU 100K World Championships.<br />Photo: Darryl Schaffer</span> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
You raised a lot of eyebrows in 2011 when you won and broke the 17-year old course record at the JFK 50 and then earned the<span style="color: #333233; font: 12px Arial;"> top American spot at the 2012 IAU 100k World Championship. Describe both of those experiences.</span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 12px Arial; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
<i>Breaking the course record at JFK was a surreal experience. I really hadn't even dreamed that I could run that fast. It was just a very special day where all the ingredients came together perfectly and I ran an amazing race. Having the chance to run down Michael Wardian in the last few miles of the race allowed me to push my body to a place where I couldn't have gone without some external motivation. That race gave me a new level of confidence that I could compete against some of the best ultra runners in the country, and it also taught me to stop placing limitations on my abilities.</i></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
<i>The 2012 IAU 100k World Championship race in Italy was another great race for me. I knew I was in excellent shape going in, but I wasn't completely sure how fast I'd be able to run. I started the race uncharacteristically fast and really got caught up in the international competition early. I didn't back down though, and just tried to hang on as long as possible. It started to unravel for me with 20k to go, but I was able to hold it together enough for a 5th place finish and top American spot. The 100k hurt a lot more than JFK, but I was really proud of how I handled the pressure and toughed out a strong finish.</i></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 12px Arial; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 12px Arial; margin: 0px;">
In your first 100 miler attempt at last year's Western States, you came in 11th with a sub-17 hour finish. Do you have plans for another 100 miler any time soon? If so, what will you do differently, if anything, to improve upon your Western States finish?</div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 12px Arial; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YdykPaWS6Rs/URhVouNnxTI/AAAAAAAAHwE/kDKcsuyfVlU/s1600/ws100_byDustyDavis.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YdykPaWS6Rs/URhVouNnxTI/AAAAAAAAHwE/kDKcsuyfVlU/s200/ws100_byDustyDavis.jpeg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Riddle at '12 Western States. <br />Photo: Dusty Davis</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
<i>I don't currently have any plans to run a 100 miler this year. I was really pleased with how my first 100 miler turned out at Western States, but my biggest limitation is my lack of trails and terrain to train on for a big mountain 100 miler like that. I gave it a go last year, running some longer, more mountainous stuff, but it's clearly not my strength. I plan to get back to my specialty and run more moderate 50 milers and 100k's this year. I think one day in the future I will run a hundred again. I think I can make huge performance improvements at that distance by adjusting my training and dialing in my nutrition. I've already mentioned lack of elevation change in my current training, but also I don't do many super-long, slow runs that would help my 100 mile ability. And having your nutrition right is so much more critical in a 100 mile race than it is in a 50 mile or 100k. If I can really get my fueling figured out, I think I could run a great 100.</i></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 12px Arial; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12px Arial; margin: 0px;">
<div style="color: #333233;">
What's in store for you and racing in 2013?</div>
<div style="color: #333233;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #333233;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><i>My racing schedule for 2013 is a mess right now. I am traveling a bunch over the next few months both for personal trips and work, and just haven't been able to schedule any races in the near term. I've been wanting to do the Chattanooga Stage Races for a while, so I am hoping to do that one and then I'm on the US 100k team again. That race was supposed to be in South Korea in October, but South Korea had to back out just a few weeks ago. The race is supposedly still on, but they are looking for a new venue to hold the race around the same time frame. That's a tough question to answer, because I really just don't know. </i></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #333233;">
What would you recommend to someone doing their first 50K?</div>
</div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 12px Arial; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
<i>It's hard to make general recommendations for a first 50k, as my advice could vary significantly from person to person depending on their experience and ability level. But, typically I'd like to see someone who has a couple road marathons under their belt. Then, assuming the 50k is a trail race, I'd highly recommend this person get some decent mileage on trails similar to the race course. I think many road runners underestimate how different the trails can be, and allowing the body to learn how to be dynamic on the trails is very important. I don't think a first time 50k-er needs to boost their mileage a lot over what they'd run for a road marathon. And if this person is spending a good bit of time on the trails, then their weekly mileage might actually come down. Total training time becomes more important than straight mileage when preparing for a trail 50k. Finally, I would caution a first timer to go out very conservatively in their race. A tough trail 50k like Mtn Mist can easily take 1.5+ times as long to finish as a road marathon even though its just a few miles longer. For this reason, you can't afford to bonk, so the beginner needs to go out easy and eat steadily throughout the race.</i></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
Thanks Dave. Good luck this year!<br />
<br />
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
You can follow David on Twitter at @rundavid1 and check out his blog at <a href="http://riddleruns.blogspot.com/">http://riddleruns.blogspot.com/</a>.</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-65970383524958504242013-02-04T07:22:00.000-08:002013-02-04T07:22:11.999-08:00Goin' Muddin'!: Mt. Mist 50K 01.26.13<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UiroZH07I2s/UQ8benYmjEI/AAAAAAAAHuU/4odfMiqJktc/s1600/774483_543982292293560_329240406_o-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UiroZH07I2s/UQ8benYmjEI/AAAAAAAAHuU/4odfMiqJktc/s640/774483_543982292293560_329240406_o-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not all, but a good chunk of the GUTS runners represented at the 2013 Mt. Mist 50K</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;">Before I jump into my race report for the <a href="http://www.huntsvilletrackclub.org/index2.htm" target="_blank">2013 Mt. Mist 50K</a>, allow me a moment to dust off the old blog by catching you up on what's happened since my last race report, last year's Double Top 100K. It's hard to believe that it's been ten months since my last completed race. Because of one thing or another, I haven't been able to put in the miles that I would have liked, both on the trail and on the road. First, I rolled my ankle back in March shortly after Double Top and although I had plans to dial back my running miles over the summer anyway, I still had the SweetH20 50K to tackle in April. I lined up at the start of that race but ten or so miles into it, my ankle started complaining. I made it to the river crossing and pulled out at 18 miles. It took a while after that race before my ankle started feeling normal again. Then in July, I dove down a flight of stairs in my house after my son who was falling and when I landed on my back I tore the ligaments out of my left shoulder and clavicle. I had surgery to repair it and I was basically out for a month and a half from consistent running. In September, I started back up in earnest. I didn't think I had a Fall race in me due to my low mileage, but I thought if I put a race on my schedule that it would help to motivate my come back, so I signed up for Mt. Mist. In the meantime, I had the opportunity to sweep the second half of the Duncan Ridge Trail 50K. Running the sixteen miles over the difficult terrain of the Duncan Ridge, but at a slow pace, was going to fit right in with my training for Mt. Mist, but something strange happened.</span><br />
<div style="font: 12px Helvetica; margin: 0px;">
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sFqg-zZCTf4/UQ8b5rLk3lI/AAAAAAAAHuc/y0xAbB_5l3s/s1600/photo-20.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sFqg-zZCTf4/UQ8b5rLk3lI/AAAAAAAAHuc/y0xAbB_5l3s/s320/photo-20.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Me and Woody pre-race in the lodge.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At Duncan Ridge 50K, I helped the turn around aid station out until the last runners came through. At around 1pm, I left the aid station and made my way down the trail towards the finish. I soon turned a couple of runners around. Only three miles in, my ankle started to hurt. Six miles in and I could barely walk. I called the RD and he was able to find a couple of other runners to finish sweeping for me. I was disappointed. I guess my injury from earlier in the year came back, but the strange thing is that a few days after trying to sweep the course, the ankle felt more or less fine. In December, I had a second surgery on the shoulder to remove the hardware that was installed in the first one. While not as intense as the first surgery, I ended up not running for about a week after this surgery. Which puts me at the Holidays about a month before Mist and my weekly running mileage was averaging 20-25 miles. Not where I needed to be. I took part in the annual GUTS Fat Ass in January and ran three loops to get 15 miles in. That would end up being my longest run in about six months...</div>
<div style="font: 12px Helvetica; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12px Helvetica; margin: 0px;">
…and my longest run leading into Mt. Mist 50K. </div>
<div style="font: 12px Helvetica; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12px Helvetica; margin: 0px;">
The Mt. Mist 50K has been on my short list for quite some time. Here in Georgia, a ton of trail runners make the pilgrimage to this race every year. The race is one of the most popular ones in the Southeast and sells out quickly. I had missed the opportunity in the past because I was too slow to sign up before it capped out. Except for this year, which I made it a point to sign up the day it opened. My buddy Woody signed up as well. Fast forward to this past weekend, Woody and I headed up to Huntsville on Friday and after a mandatory pit stop dinner at Terminal Brewhouse in Chattanooga, we arrived in Huntsville at the Monte Sano State Park Lodge with just a few minutes spare to pick up our race packets. We ran into a few friends and caught up but quickly headed out to get some rest at our hotel.<br />
<br />
The alarm clock went off way too early, but it didn't take long before we had eaten breakfast and were on our way back to the lodge. The top of Monte Sano sits at about 1,600 feet which is about 900 or so feet higher than the average elevation of Huntsville. So up the mountain we drove. The night before we dealt with a thick fog, but the morning of the race the skies were cloudy but no fog. The race was set to start at 7:30am and we pulled in around 6:30am, quickly found a place to park and picked up our timing chips. I was able to make the group photo with the other GUTS runners, about 50 or so taking part in the race. We then lined up right outside for the start. Woody made his way towards the front of the pack and I stayed back a bit with my buddy, Andrew. Andrew was going for his tenth Mt. Mist finish which would earn him a special jacket. I was happy to be there to witness Andrew get his jacket, but more on that later.<br />
<br />
The gun went off and 400 or so runners started off on what would end up being a beautiful day for running. Tons of rain fell the day before and the earlier forecast called for doom and gloom on race day, but the sun broke through the clouds about an hour and a half into the race and temps would peak in the high 50's later in the day. Perfect conditions except for the mud. From the start, we had mud and muddy puddles all over the trail. We were goin' muddin'!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HBkkDFCUGf0/UQ8b_LtCt9I/AAAAAAAAHu0/gtPYv8x0pBs/s1600/photo-21.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HBkkDFCUGf0/UQ8b_LtCt9I/AAAAAAAAHu0/gtPYv8x0pBs/s320/photo-21.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Powerline cut out.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I got into a nice pace with Andrew and the first few miles went by rather quickly as we were talking and catching up. Much of the early miles are down hill and except for occasional rocks and the mud, it's actually a tame part of the course especially compared to the later miles of the race. I was feeling pretty good as we were geting into a good pace. We followed the side of the mountain for a bit then came up to a flat section that I later learned is part of the course of the Dizzy Fifties, a loop race later in the year. Here the mud was manageable and we got in a couple of decently fast miles. Andrew and I were running at this point with a group of other runners, many of them also GUTS runners like Steve, Sarah, Kim and Janice. After a short technical decent, we came out into a powerline section that ended up being one of my favorite of the course. Out of the trees, you had a chance to look around and see the surrounding foothills. Plus the sun was starting to break through the clouds.<br />
<br />
On the powerline section, the mud was intense. Before the start of the race, Woody talked me into wearing my Saucony Peregrines, which even though I had never run long in them had more traction than my other shoes and were a little lighter. This actually helped out a lot during the course. I was glad I had listened to him. The mud caked up on the shoes with the grass and it made the rocks that much harder to handle. We came off the powerline section and had our first real climb of the day some where around 9 miles in. Andrew said the climb was nicknamed K2. What ever it was called, it was something to see a whole line of runners just walking their way up the switchbacks ahead of us.<br />
<br />
Once we leveled off, I thought I'd try to pick it up a bit and see how that would turn out. So I slowly made my way past a few folks, left Andrew and the other GUTS runners that were with me behind and soon found myself running alone for a bit. I came in to the second aid station, grabbed a few peanut butter stuffed pretzels and Coke and kept on. I was thinking to myself that I was probably going to regret this push on the early miles but it would end up fine.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1yfeA9AzfHs/UQ8a7Sqh0rI/AAAAAAAAHuE/bN6tEJTnQXc/s1600/62321_4890758001058_1450559773_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1yfeA9AzfHs/UQ8a7Sqh0rI/AAAAAAAAHuE/bN6tEJTnQXc/s320/62321_4890758001058_1450559773_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Coming into aid station #2 (photo: Vikena Yutz)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I caught some other runners and we made our way up and around another decent climb. The trail wrapped around and interestingly enough came up to a summit of a hill where these giant stone formations formed a cave. I later learned these were called the Stone Cuts. These things were beautiful. You literally have to squeeze between gigantic rock formations. You could also see holes in the rocks which looked pretty dark and deep, but there was no time to explore. Plus you had to respect the two Emergency Rescue volunteers that were waiting on the other side of the Stone Cuts. There must be a reason they were there. I got through the rocks, came out of a steep little ascent and I was back on the trail. Down we went again and then back up towards aid station #3.<br />
<br />
When I got to aid station 3, my buddy Joe was haning out and cheering on friends. While I grabbed something to munch on, he mentioned that the station was around 17 miles in. 17 miles, huh? Well, I was feeling pretty good and better than expected. This was now officially the longest I had run in over six months. My legs were holding up well though, but I knew the hardest part was yet to come. We crossed the road and hopped back on the trail. Down we went on the Bluffline Trail. Lots of rocks and mud made the descent a bit tougher than it would normally have been. I ended up tagging along with another runner for this section and the next several miles. He had run Mt. Mist 13 other times previously and knew the course well. I stuck with him and we had a decent pace going navigating the mud and rocks. The Railroad Trail section of the course was more of the same mud and rocks. When we hit aid station 4 at around 21 miles, I thought "this is it, I'm going to burn out any minute now." But I kept up. The next couple of miles were, you guessed it, rocky and muddy. We crossed the same creek a couple of times and that made me think of the famous Waterline waterfalls that we were soon to hit.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mVPBMDjib-E/UQ8cEYLZDBI/AAAAAAAAHvA/4gA4jWtWHGQ/s1600/photo-22.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mVPBMDjib-E/UQ8cEYLZDBI/AAAAAAAAHvA/4gA4jWtWHGQ/s320/photo-22.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">The famous waterfall on the Waterline Trail.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We left the Railroad Trail behind us and switched to the Alms Trail until we finally hit the bottom of the Waterline Trail. Now I had heard so much about this climb. And admittedly, I was bracing myself for it. But the first few miles of the climb are disarming. It's a straight medium grade trail on top of a stone bed that while is relentless going up, it wasn't very technical at all, until...<br />
<br />
I saw a rock formation up ahead and then I noticed all the runners to the right at a stand still. The runner in front of them was looking across to the left and was obviously studying how to go across and then scramble up the waterfall. When my turn came, I crossed the waterfall and then scrambled up the side of it following every one else up and up, grabbing small tree trunks and what ever I could to help me up. I'm sure everyones blog entry for this race has an aside for this section of the course, but it really is that crazy of a climb from the waterfalls. Once above the falls, there is still some more climbing to go. By the time we got all the way up and started approaching aid station 5 at 26 miles in, we basically earned back all the the descent miles from aid station #3 to the bottom of Waterline. At the aid station, i refueled again on pretzels and Coke while sucking down a GU. Once back on the course, we descended and on the way down I picked up Eric, a local runner who I had run with before, and the two of us chatted while making our way. As we made our way down, he had me stop and take in this giant rock well off the trail. It was impressive. It must go hundreds of feet down. Eric joked and said that local trail runners would toss a rock in there as they ran by to see if one day they could fill it. What ever the case, I didn't want to be falling down that thing.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-07R9dm31OOo/UQ8cEAT6WnI/AAAAAAAAHu8/KX6bmrsF4-w/s1600/photo-23.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-07R9dm31OOo/UQ8cEAT6WnI/AAAAAAAAHu8/KX6bmrsF4-w/s320/photo-23.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Smiling at the finish!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After a short ascent past the well, the next section was pretty technical and the mud reared back its ugly head which once again made traversing the rocks difficult. Down we went into what's called McKays Hollow. I was feeling the effort now from the big climb earlier. The footing was lousy and being tired, it was hard to get a good groove going. Down, down, down. I knew there was only 3-4 miles left, but I also knew that we were going to pay for all this downhill. Eric dropped me and I ran alone for a while. But before he left, he mentioned something about free tacos for all the finishers. That was incentive to get this done. The trail leveled off at the bottom and I crossed a creek. It wasn't long before I saw what was in store. I looked up and a few runners were ahead of me. We came around and soon started climbing. And climbing. Happily, I got a second wind at this point and picked up my pace. Now I wasn't running, but my power walking got me past the other runners and I surged up the hill. Up and up I went. I heard voices and eventually I was at the last aid station. I asked a volunteer how much was left and he said, "1.8 easy flat miles back to the lodge." This put pep back in my step and those last 1.8 miles ended up being my fastest of the whole day. Although I was passed by a runner or two, I did some passing of my own. I could hear the murmur at the finish line before I could see it. Once across a little footbridge, the finish line was in sight. Ran in at 6:46:46. No where near my fastest 50K, but given my base mileage going into the race, I was quite happy with that. It was good to have a race under my belt again. <br />
<br />
Woody was at the finish to greet me. He threw down a 5:07! The winner was David Riddle who broke the course record with a 3:36!! Pretty impressive stuff given the mud. Woody pointed me in the direction of the free tacos and beer and I made a bee line for it once I picked up my finisher's award, a really cool slate shell with some original art. With food and brew in hand, I went and sat with the fellow GUTS runners and we cheered others as they arrived. It was good to see Andrew cross the finish line about 10 or so minutes after me and earn his jacket for having run ten Mt. Mist races.<br />
<br />
I really enjoyed the race and I was glad to have finally run it after having heard so much about it. I plan to come back and be in better shape. Next up, the Georgia Death Race in March, a 60-mile race from Vogel State Park to Amicalola Falls State Park in North Georgia. We'll see how that goes.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.huntsvilletrackclub.org/index2.htm" target="_blank">Course profile</a><br />
<a href="http://www.huntsvilletrackclub.org/index2.htm" target="_blank">Course route</a><br />
<a href="http://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=17736" target="_blank">2013 official results</a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-16SU_Np1ZtM/UQ8eUW9OgRI/AAAAAAAAHvU/08jDs-8vW4Y/s1600/photo-17.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-16SU_Np1ZtM/UQ8eUW9OgRI/AAAAAAAAHvU/08jDs-8vW4Y/s320/photo-17.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">I tried to capture the mud on my shoes, <br />but this photo doesn't do it justice.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YE0i7858PcA/UQ8eUTCyX_I/AAAAAAAAHvY/7ACIATlEGhI/s1600/photo-16.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YE0i7858PcA/UQ8eUTCyX_I/AAAAAAAAHvY/7ACIATlEGhI/s320/photo-16.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">2013 Mt. Mist finisher's award</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4QYcMbqhIgE/UQ8dtkAqjkI/AAAAAAAAHvM/uwzytWYRacI/s1600/photo-18.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4QYcMbqhIgE/UQ8dtkAqjkI/AAAAAAAAHvM/uwzytWYRacI/s320/photo-18.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Great swag! Love the visor and shirt.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-36889907927372603242012-10-10T08:03:00.002-07:002012-10-10T15:51:59.760-07:00Trail race spotlight: Georgia Death Race 03.16.13<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Re24lokJInU/UHTRrPPVlEI/AAAAAAAAHrw/96z-9D1Cif0/s1600/286817_10151390670837519_158791425_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Re24lokJInU/UHTRrPPVlEI/AAAAAAAAHrw/96z-9D1Cif0/s640/286817_10151390670837519_158791425_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sean Blanton running on a segment of the Duncan Ridge Trail and the Georgia Death Race.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333233; font-family: 'Lucida Grande';">A couple months ago I saw a post on Facebook from local Georgia ultrarunner, Sean Blanton, describing a new race he was working on that he called the </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333233; font-family: 'Lucida Grande';"><a href="http://www.georgiadeathrace.com/" target="_blank">Georgia Death Race</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333233; font-family: 'Lucida Grande';">. While I wasn't impressed with the name he chose for the event, I was intrigued by the route he had selected. </span><br />
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OwRoRyWFrWw/UHTRr7GmvlI/AAAAAAAAHr4/nTwPkQkD58Y/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OwRoRyWFrWw/UHTRr7GmvlI/AAAAAAAAHr4/nTwPkQkD58Y/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Basically, the race will start in Vogel State Park, hit the Coosa Backcountry Trail up to Coosa Bald and then get on the Duncan Ridge Trail, easily the toughest trail in Georgia. I've run this trail and the Coosa Backcountry and both are challenging trails. Another race, the <a href="http://www.duncanridgetrail50k.com/" target="_blank">Duncan Ridge Trail 50K</a> has the same route except you turn around after 25K to head back to Vogel State Park. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">The Georgia Death Race continues on the Duncan Ridge Trail and connects with the Benton McKaye. You should look back through <a href="http://anecdotesfromthetrail.blogspot.com/2011/03/duncan-ridge-trail-fun-run-030911.html" target="_blank">my blog to read my running of the Duncan Ridge Trail</a> last year. There are no switch backs. It is straight uphill running and then straight, quad busting downhill running for several miles. Although, you are rewarded with amazing scenery. </span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Once the course reaches Three Forks, it takes a series of non-traveled trails and forest roads all the way to Amicalola Falls in an effort to avoid the Appalachian Trail. Not due to difficulty, if anything the race route is harder, but because organized race events are not permitted on the AT. The course covers 60 miles and promises over 30,000 ft. of elevation change on mostly challenging single track trails.</span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Sean recently announced that race registration for the Georgia Death Race would open on Monday, October 8. Obviously, runners like to test their mettle, as 25 participants signed up in the first 48 hours. Before you rush to register for the Georgia Death Race, take a moment to read my Q&A with Sean regarding the race.</span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><i>Sean, you've traveled the world and run trails from Hawaii to Nepal to Switzerland. How do the trails in North Georgia, your home base, compare to other trails in other parts of the country and the world?</i></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Trails here are awesome. They are rocky, hard and untouched. Trails around the world get lots of wear and tear from locals and tourists. Not many tourists to North Georgia and most locals don't hike or run much on the trails we selected for this race, the Duncan Ridge Trail and a section of the Benton McKaye Trail. The majority of hikers and runners go to the Appalachian Trail or stay in the state parks. Our trails have some incredible views. I have run for 40 miles on these trails on a Saturday and not seen a soul. I hope to share these trails with others.</span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><i>What was your inspiration behind creating the Georgia Death Race and why did you choose that name for it?</i></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">The inspiration for the race came from me and <a href="https://twitter.com/100krow" target="_blank">Brad Goodridge</a> always trying to come up with god awful run ideas up in North Georgia. This was a mutation of one. Our favorite trails and the hardest trails we know. The name is more for show. No one is going to die. I mean how many races do you hear the name and have no idea where it is. This begs the question. Plus it sounds awesome to say you finished the Georgia Death Race.</span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><i>With a cap of 150 runners, describe some of the challenges and the highlights that race participants will encounter while racing the GDR.</i></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DR3Udh-uVWE/UHTRp3-9MtI/AAAAAAAAHro/jyT2a96Emg8/s1600/2012-02-06+13.56.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DR3Udh-uVWE/UHTRp3-9MtI/AAAAAAAAHro/jyT2a96Emg8/s320/2012-02-06+13.56.01.jpg" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">First of all, the runners will experience running at night on single track trail with a 4 am start. With the leaves being down around this time of year, the views are stunning and runners will be able to see into the distance at the mountains around them. They will see the sunrise over the back of Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia. There are several rocky peaks along the Duncan Ridge Trail that allow for amazing unobstructed views. You will cross over a fun swinging bridge. We will have some fun surprises at the aid stations. The hardest climb will be done in the dark. You will think it goes on forever. It's about 2,300 ft. gain in just 3.8 miles. There is close to 20,000 ft of elevation change in the first 40 miles. </span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><i>What would you advise to anyone eyeing the Georgia Death Race as their first race longer than a 50K?</i></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">I would advise them to look at the race as a fun organized hike run. We have a 28 hour cutoff. You can walk it in that time, I assure you. But it is all about training properly. I would focus more on up and down more than distance in training. Hiking would be a good idea because unless you're an elite runner (and even then) you will be hiking most of the up. Don't be scared. I will do everything in my power to help you cross that finish line. We'll have aid stations every 4 to 8 miles.</span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><i>What about the race swag? What is each participant receiving with their race registration and when they finish?</i></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Everyone will receive a custom Race Ready tech tee for the race. Top 3 male and female will be receiving A LOT of prizes from our sponsors as well custom awards. All finishers will receive the coveted Georgia Death Race nail. Its an old railroad spike engraved with "Georgia Death Race Finisher". Why? Because if you finish, you're tougher than nails! Also we will have SO much stuff to raffle off at the pre race meeting its not funny! You will leave with a smile and some gear.</span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><i>I understand you are trying to string together the Georgia high peaks into a race course. What other race courses are you planning?</i></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">That is a fun run as it takes place in a lot of wilderness area. I am planning on about two to three races next year. And four to five in 2014. My races are different than all the other trail races. I see a lot of people just picking any old trail and hosting a race. Those races end up with rolling hills through the woods with no views and no reward. I plan to change that. EVERYONE OF THE RACES I PUT ON INCLUDE A VIEW AS A REWARD. When I run, I have a lot of fun and I have my own epic races coming up. I run to see beautiful things I can't see from my car. I use this philosophy when designing race courses. I promise, if you run the Georgia Death Race or any other race I put on that you will stop mid race to admire the view. So carry a camera! </span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><i>Last one…describe the Georgia Death Race in five words.</i></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">I only need one.....EPIC!</span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 11px 'Lucida Grande'; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">There you have it. Ready to earn your GDR rail spike (that has got to be one of the more original race bling out there)? Then r</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">egister at</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #232323; font-family: Arial;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #232323; font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=17816" target="_blank">UltraSignUp</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #232323; font-family: Arial;">. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The race is capped at 150 runners and starts at 4:00am on Saturday, March 16, 2013.</span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 13px Arial; margin: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #232323; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Follow Sean Blanton on Twitter at <a href="http://www.twitter.com/runbum" target="_blank">@runbum</a> or like the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TeamInTrainingGeorgia#!/pages/Run-Bum/111120335623670?fref=ts" target="_blank">Run Bum page on Facebook</a>, and hit him up if you have questions about the Georgia Death Race. Happy trails!</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-67511321843569882182012-09-27T17:51:00.001-07:002012-10-02T18:37:38.815-07:00Trail runner Spotlight: Hal Koerner<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7xeSVEJWAXU/UGY11DVtHtI/AAAAAAAAHrU/tQT3meHOC8Y/s1600/Hal.Koerner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7xeSVEJWAXU/UGY11DVtHtI/AAAAAAAAHrU/tQT3meHOC8Y/s640/Hal.Koerner.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The North Face sponsored ultrarunner, Hal Koerner</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">A week or so ago I received an email from The North Face asking me if I would be interested in asking Hal Koerner a few questions for my blog. After pondering this for a moment (more like a nanosecond), I said, "Interview Hal?! This year's Hardrock 100 winner and all out ultrarunning living legend? Duh, hell yes!" I was flattered and honored for the opportunity. I didn't waste any time in typing up a few questions and I forwarded them on. I waited patiently to get the email back with the answers and I was excited to see the email today with Hal's responses. Below's my Q&A with Hal…enjoy!</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Congrats on your Hardrock 100 win this year! Will you briefly share how that experience went for you and what it meant to you to win that race?</span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>Hardrock is such a special race, it takes a ton of commitment both physically and mentally. The extremes are unlike anything in ultrarunning and with that, the highs and lows become incised like no other endurance event I know. It was really special for me to head back to Colorado, where I grew up and cut my teeth as far as trail running is concerned, and then to have my family and friends there to experience it well that is what ultrarunning is all about. </i> </span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I was reading on your blog that you've had some time to rest and recharge. How are you feeling going into The North Face Endurance Challenge 50 in Georgia?</span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-efn0R3vira0/UGT0Fmz4_hI/AAAAAAAAHrA/v3WSiIROAZU/s1600/DSC_02702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-efn0R3vira0/UGT0Fmz4_hI/AAAAAAAAHrA/v3WSiIROAZU/s320/DSC_02702.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Hal refueling at the Western States 100 </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(photo: ultrarunnerpodcast.com)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>Funny that you mention that, I’m actually writing you from Utah where I’ll be competing at the Bear 100 this weekend. I’ll have to get at the recovery side of things here on Monday, but I always look forward to the shorter distances after a hundred. They just seem to fly by. At The North Face EC race in Georgia, I would like to run faster this year, because I was out there for a long time last year and I do enjoy the finish line festival. </i></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">You ran and won this race last year. What do you recall of running the Pine Mountain trail last year and what would you advise to someone running the course for the first time this year?</span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>It’s deceivingly long in that you would think a first rate effort for a seemingly “flat” course would take much less time. That being said, I think folks need to take it easy and prepare for being out there a long time. Execution will be key, take the time to stay up on nutrition and hydration as well as pacing. Then, when you think you have nothing left you can tap into a little bit of that ultrarunning grit to get you across the finish line. Also, watch out footing wise. It’s a rather technical, windy/weaving course that doesn’t allow for much speed. Knowing that will keep you from burning out on the front end.</i> </span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">As far as racing is concerned, what's left for you in 2012 besides the TNFEC Georgia and what do you have planned for 2013?</span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>My oh my, I’m still trying to figure all that out. I would like to run in New Zealand this year as well as take a stab at UTMB one more time. I’m looking into some cool expeditions with my TNF teammates like traversing the Wind River Range in Wyoming as well as attempting a speed record on the John Muir Trail in California. I’m sure I’ll find a few other things as well. </i></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Seems that running the fastest Grand Slam in history is a goal for several top ultramarathoners next year. Is that something that appeals to you and would we ever see Hal Koerner running the ultramarathon Grand Slam?</span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>Definitely, although I don’t think it’ll be next year. I want to be really competitive at Leadville 100 and Wasatch still and that’s an impossibility considering the SLAM. I like the idea of running well at Western States too, but it’s a quick summer when you start running a 100 every few weeks. More power to them, I hope they set the bar high.</i></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 12.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Last question, can you hook me up with a Rogue Valley Runners sticker?</span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 12.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>Sure, it's in the mail. Ha, ha!</i></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 12.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Thanks Hal and good luck at Bear 100!</span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">~~~~~~~~~~~</span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Hal tackles the Bear 100 in Utah this weekend before making his way to Georgia in a couple of weeks for The North Face Endurance Challenge 50 Miler on Saturday, October 13th. You can follow Hal on Twitter at @HalKoerner and you can follow his blog at <a href="http://halkoerner.com/">http://halkoerner.com/</a>. Visit his The North Face team profile page at <a href="http://www.thenorthface.com/en_US/exploration/athletes/4-hal-koerner/">http://www.thenorthface.com/en_US/exploration/athletes/4-hal-koerner/</a>.</span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">You can toe the line with Hal at The North Face Endurance Challenge Georgia which takes place at Pine Mountain, GA on October 13-14 weekend. Register at <a href="http://tnf.ec/0o"><span style="color: #de7026;">http://tnf.ec/0o</span></a> and follow @TheNorthFaceECS on Twitter<span style="color: #333233; font: normal normal normal 16px/normal Arial;">.</span> </span></div>
<img src="http://goals.ar.gy/bug.gif?hash=9cab9febc1d3206a048d0891b2562c73" style="height: 0px; width: 0px;" />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-39422235885126949152012-09-19T18:03:00.000-07:002012-09-20T18:06:33.432-07:00Trail runner Spotlight: John Dove<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U8u2q2FDzcU/UFpqWYLLhOI/AAAAAAAAHqs/D11wukQ-Kc4/s1600/securedownload_resized-794385.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="476" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U8u2q2FDzcU/UFpqWYLLhOI/AAAAAAAAHqs/D11wukQ-Kc4/s640/securedownload_resized-794385.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John Dove crossing the finish line on the final day of The Dragon's Back Race in Wales.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
When I think of the local ultrarunning community here in Georgia, I'm hard pressed to name someone with a more impressive racing history than John Dove. There are only a handful of others that surpass his accomplishments. A veteran of thirty 100 milers, an avid adventure racer and a dedicated mountain bike rider, John is at once humble and personable. He's always good for a laugh and he's supportive of trail running enthusiasts of all abilities. </div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
John recently found himself looking for a new challenge. A buddy clued him into a multi-day stage race in Wales called <a href="http://www.dragonsbackrace.com/" target="_blank">The Dragon's Back Race</a>. It's a grueling five day stage race covering almost 200 miles and an insane amount of climbing along a Welsh mountain range. Originally run in 1992, it took a twenty year hiatus until the next time it was produced, which was earlier this month. Only 29 out of 90 participants finished all five stages this year.</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
After returning back to the States, I recently had an opportunity to catch up with John and ask him about his experience. Here's how it went…</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
John, congrats on your Dragon's Back finish! I'm curious, how did you hear about this event and what inspired you take it on?</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<i>Thanks! My friend Jon Barker saw the race mentioned on the <a href="http://sleepmonsters.com/" target="_blank">Sleepmonsters website</a>. We had been talking about doing a multi-day adventure race or multi-stage running race for a few years. We signed up back in November, so I had a lot of time to think about what I was getting myself into. I wanted to do something out of my normal ultra running comfort zone. Not to say that a 100 miler is ever easy, but after completing thirty of them I wanted to do something that challenged me in a different way, something unknown to me.</i></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
What would you say is the biggest difference between racing in the states and racing overseas?</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<i>The biggest difference is the navigation aspect of most of the races in the UK. This was not a marked course. Each morning you were given a map with several checkpoints marked on it. It was my decision what route to take. Now some of the route choices were very obvious, trails, roads bridal paths, but sometimes your best route didn't include any kind of path or trail, just pure cross country running. We scrambled up climbs and ran through miles of grassy, sometimes muddy open land to get to the checkpoints along the course. The closest thing we have to this in the States is our adventure races, but the navigation in the Dragon's Back was much more straight forward.</i></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
Racing stage races involves a whole different approach than racing ultra distance races. How did you prepare for the Dragon's Back Race and what would you advice to someone considering their first multi-day stage race?</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<i>I ran every day for 131 days leading up to the race. I would run the day after an ultra when I really felt bad, run in the rain, run when I was lazy, anything that would mimic how I might feel during the five days of the race. I did a few three day weekends where I ran 30, 30, and 20 miles and the Chattanooga 3-Day Stage Race in June to see how that third day would feel.</i></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<i>My biggest advice would be to make running routine especially back to back long runs. Also try a lot of different food in training. What I eat during 100's is fine, but on day 3 of the Dragon's Back I was absolutely sick of my food choices and had a hard time getting it down. Luckily, we passed through a couple of villages and I was able to grab some food. Taking 60 gels and a handful of bars was not the best food plan. I will have a much bigger variety at the next one I do.</i></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
What was the most grueling day of the Dragon's Back race and why?</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<i>I would say day one. It was 37 miles and had 15,600 feet of climbing. That's a lot of climbing in such a short distance! Most of the day was spent on the ridges so there was no water sources. I went a couple hours without water in the first half of the day and really paid for it later. I felt my best on the final day, Friday, better than I did all week. Guess it was knowing it was the last day.I was surprised that I had any pep left in the legs on Friday and that I was still able to run well for the second half of the last day.</i></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
Next up for you is the Pinhoti 100 in November, a race you have won in the past…how are you feeling going into that race and how are you managing recovering from Dragon's Back Race to racing a 100-miler a couple of months later?</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<i>Right now I am not thinking too much about Pinhoti. I know I will feel better closer to the race, but it is too early in the recovery process to start thinking about running a 100 mile race. I had been doing some short runs and some mountain biking up through the weekend (a week after the race) and felt okay. I got my weight back up to what it was going into the Dragon's Back, so I thought I was coming along well. Then I ran for an hour at lunch on Monday and went back out that afternoon for another hour and thought "ok I am ready for some mileage." Tuesday morning I was dead and I dragged along all day at work. I got home and couldn't motivate myself to get out and run. </i></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<i><br />
</i></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<i>So 11 days after the race and I am still feeling fatigued. I will listen to my body and not force anything for the next week to 10 days. I am racing the Stump Jump 50K in 17 days on October 6th. That will be a good time to push hard and really see how my recovery is coming. After that I will have a month to run some higher mileage weeks to get ready for Pinhoti. I hope all the training I put in for the Dragon's Back and the 192 miles I ran during the race will help me at Pinhoti.</i></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
What's in store for you in 2013?</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<i>For 2013 I will throw my hat in for another chance at the Hardrock 100. If I could run only one 100 miler a year that would be my choice! Also put in for Wasatch 100. I have never run it and the course looks great. I will do a few endurance mountain bike races again early in the year and a couple 50k's. I will also run the Chattanooga 3-Day Stage Race again in June to see if I learned anything over in Wales. I want to run the Double Top 100 in March and of course, Pinhoti 100 again in November and maybe the new Deliverance 100 mile in South Carolina in late November. </i></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
Ha, ha! John you went from saying you'd like to run one 100-miler every year to rattling off five different 100 milers in 2013. What'll it be?</div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<i>Too many races out there to choose from, I guess.</i></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
John, Thanks for answering a few questions. Good luck at Stump Jump and Pinhoti and hopefully, if my injury recovery goes well, I'll see you at the Chattanooga 3-Day Stage Race next year.</div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<i>Thanks, my pleasure! See you then.</i></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
~~~~~~~~~~~</div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
You can follow John on Twitter at @jcddove and you can follow The Dragon's Back Race at @TheDragonsBack. Check out John's blog and his race report of the race at <a href="http://johndoveblog.blogspot.com/">johndoveblog.blogspot.com</a>.</div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #232323; font: 13.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
View an amazing gallery of photos from The Dragon's Back Race on the UK's Guardian website, click <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/gallery/2012/sep/06/dragons-back-race-wales-in-pictures?INTCMP=SRCH#/?picture=395692428&index=0" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Great recap videos of all five stages are on YouTube, click <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3UirFOwlBY&feature=relmfu" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #009933; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 15px;"><span class="st" style="line-height: 1.24;"></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-58114171131487949682012-09-07T04:26:00.001-07:002012-09-07T04:58:23.563-07:00Trail runner spotlight: Julie Wolfe<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-it84WD_l4vo/UEf45ulmy3I/AAAAAAAAHqQ/n7X-q2-HxaQ/s1600/523042_3044738598478_1826276446_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="362" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-it84WD_l4vo/UEf45ulmy3I/AAAAAAAAHqQ/n7X-q2-HxaQ/s640/523042_3044738598478_1826276446_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Julie Wolfe crossing Sweetwater Creek during her first ultra race at the 2012 SweetH20 50K.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last week, I posted an interview with Roxanne Zobava, a veteran trail runner with a number of ultrarunning highlights on her running resume. To contrast that, I seeked out someone who, while may have the road miles under their belt, was just getting their feet wet, literally, in the world of trail running and ultra distance races. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I caught up with local Atlanta TV "backpack reporter", Julie Wolfe, for a quick interview. You'll read in her own words how running has been a part of her life for some time now but also how she's getting started in the trail running community. As a reporter, Julie has a crazy schedule, but she still manages to get her training in. She's getting geared up for a very busy Fall racing season including The North Face Endurance Challenge 50K Georgia in October. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Here's our little chat...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m_ID4hgC540/UEf45I2ZFdI/AAAAAAAAHqI/f1IHQw1wYpU/s1600/271021_1799740594306_8286964_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m_ID4hgC540/UEf45I2ZFdI/AAAAAAAAHqI/f1IHQw1wYpU/s320/271021_1799740594306_8286964_n.jpg" width="224" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing the finish at Mayor's Alaska <br />
Marathon with Team In Training.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">How long have you been running and when was your first marathon? What attracted you to trying 26.2 miles for the first time?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I grew up in a family where my three sisters and I would shudder with embarrassment when our dad came running down the block in his tiny bright-blue nylon shorts. My whole life, my dad has been a runner. I was never interested until I turned 19. A young man I went to high school with was killed in a car crash during his senior year. It marked the time in Metro Atlanta before license restrictions when it seemed like teen driving tragedies came so often we were numb. My dad was a member at his church and started a 5K to raise money for the scholarship in his name. I couldn’t run 5K when I started training, but I ran it that day and never really looked back.</i></span><br />
<i><br /></i>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Over the years, as I’ve moved from city to city following my career in television, I’ve always sought out local running groups for support and friendship. When I first told my dad I was running a marathon, he laughed. But that was 15 full marathons ago and too many halves to count. It includes a few my dad and I have run together. He still owns those blue nylon shorts.</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What was your favorite road marathon experience and why?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Every marathon is good and bad for different reasons, so that’s hard for me to say. My favorite destination was Anchorage. My favorite post-race was Napa to Sonoma. My fastest time was in Buffalo, NY. My most social run was in Chicago. I haven’t found the “perfect” marathon yet. I guess that’s why I keep running them.</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Earlier this year, you decided to try your hand at trail running and you ran your first 50K. What inspired you to do so?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I was bored. I either had to get faster or run longer. Running is like therapy to me. I believe every person with a stressful job must have an outlet. Your choice is whether it’s going to be a healthy one or a destructive one. Running relaxes me and brings back focus. Because of that, I’ve always shied away from the intense training effort I’d need to put in to push my times into the competitive region. I own a Garmin, but I don’t want to be a slave to it. I’m afraid of making running another job, of making it a source of stress instead of a stress reliever. And so, running longer was the only choice left.</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">How would you describe your experience at the SweetH20?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I loved it. It’s been so long since I ran a race I wasn’t even sure I could finish. I forgot how scary, fun, and exciting that can be. Everything that was making me feel stifled in marathon road races was nowhere to be found on that trail. Both draw amazing, incredible athletes and intense competitors. But there is such a feeling of community on the trails that you don’t feel in a road race, even the smaller ones.</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What first attracted you to racing a TNF Endurance Challenge race?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>After the SweetH2O, I was searching for another 50K. The TNF was close to home and good timing, so it was an easy choice.</i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After the 50K distance, do you have plans to go even further in a race? Why or why not?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I’d like to do a 50 mile race in 2013. Right now, I have no desire to do a 100 miler. But if you’d asked me five years ago if I’d be running ultras, I would have laughed. So, we’ll see what the future holds. If I’ve learned anything from running over the years, it’s that the “post-race glow” is a strong pull towards the next big challenge.</i></span><br />
<i><br /></i>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I think the biggest hurdle for me on increasing distance is training time. Between working six day weeks during the Olympics, getting sick with the cold that’s sweeping Atlanta right now, and traveling; getting those extra long runs (20+ miles) has been a real challenge this year. I’ve learned if you want to be a distance runner and you want to have a life, there are compromises on both ends. I think like all of us, I do the best I can and hope it’s enough on race day.</i></span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RIVS5OYVnnk/UEf44hOYHgI/AAAAAAAAHqA/WeRHHRDbhj4/s1600/257429_1842510183519_2154509_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RIVS5OYVnnk/UEf44hOYHgI/AAAAAAAAHqA/WeRHHRDbhj4/s320/257429_1842510183519_2154509_o.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What is your goal at this year's TNF Endurance Challenge?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Leading up to my first 50K I posted my 3 goals on Facebook: (1) To not die (2) To Keep Moving Forward and (3) to not get swept. I wasn’t really kidding. Because I’d never run an ultra, I had no idea what to expect. This time, I have a reference point. Still, I’ll keep those original goals plus the hope of finishing in a better time. This ultra is part of a triple-header I’m running this fall: Wineglass 26.2 in September, the North face Challenge in October, and the Savannah Rock n’ Roll 13.1 in November. Instead of treating them as individual races, I see it as one big “fall race plan”.</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What would you advise to someone trying trail running for the first time?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Curb your expectations and just let go. For me, trail running is very different than road running. You use so many different muscles. You have to stay mentally engaged. You burn about 15% more calories, so I’m also much hungrier after and during long trail runs. But I think us running nerds over think it. It’s still just putting one foot in front of the other. Consider leaving your watch at home. Explore the trails. Stop to take pictures of the sunset and gape at the deer staring you down. There’s something about trail running that makes me feel free and very, very far away from everything. It’s a whole new kind of running high.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is still about putting one foot in front of the other and I agree, go exploring. Thanks Julie and good luck with your races this Fall.</span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /></i>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Thanks and my pleasure!</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">~~~~~~~~~~</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was glad to catch up with Julie and get her thoughts about her upcoming races. You can follow Julie on Twitter (@JulieWolfe), and drop her a note of encouragement as she gets ready. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">You can also join Julie at The No</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222;">rth Face Endurance Challenge Georgia which takes place at
Pine Mountain, GA on October 13-14 weekend. Register at <a href="http://tnf.ec/0o"><span style="color: #de7008;">http://tnf.ec/0o</span></a> and follow @TheNorthFaceECS on
Twitter</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 24px;">. Happy trails!</span></span><br />
</div>
<img src="http://goals.ar.gy/bug.gif?hash=9cab9febc1d3206a048d0891b2562c73" style="height: 0px; width: 0px;" />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-19404334444301217582012-08-28T18:35:00.001-07:002012-08-29T11:43:47.740-07:00Trail runner spotlight: Roxanne Zobava<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wUeKaKt_w3c/UD1wqjiNLII/AAAAAAAAHps/4eFH9uVi1jQ/s1600/imagejpeg952-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wUeKaKt_w3c/UD1wqjiNLII/AAAAAAAAHps/4eFH9uVi1jQ/s400/imagejpeg952-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roxanne Zobava tearing it up at the <br />
'08 The North Face Endurance Challenge 50 Miler in Wisconsin.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I've used this blog to mostly share my adventures while trail running or to post race reports, but I want to give the blog a new dimension. I want to explore connecting with other runners in the trail running community and sharing their love of the sport. I thought I'd start with a good friend of mine who I have had the pleasure of running many trail miles together, but who is an accomplished runner with an impressive resume. </span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wdooTbipD4M/UDwjcmXJjUI/AAAAAAAAHo8/yKMlIGBGvZA/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wdooTbipD4M/UDwjcmXJjUI/AAAAAAAAHo8/yKMlIGBGvZA/s200/photo.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TNFEC Madison finish.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">And since I'm busy helping The North Face folks promote their upcoming <a href="http://www.thenorthface.com/en_US/endurance-challenge/atlanta-ga/?stop_mobi=yes&utm_campaign=%25%25Javier_De_Jesus%25%25&utm_content=%25%25atlanta%25%25&utm_medium=%7BSiteUrl%7D&utm_source=%25%25blog%25%25&utm_term=%25%252012%25%25" target="_blank">Endurance Challenge in Georgia</a>, what a better way to connect the two but to talk to someone who has run at three different TNFEC events. Rox took 2nd female at TNFEC Madison 50 miler back in 2008 and took 5th female at TNFEC Washington 50 miler in 2010. Her resume also includes winning her very first 50K in 2007 and standing on the podium at 16 more races after that including 2nd female at the 2009 Pinhoti 100. Rox is on the <a href="http://blog.rockcreek.com/category/rockcreek-race-team" target="_blank">Rock/Creek trail racing team</a> and is also a <a href="http://www.getguts.com/" target="_blank">GUTS</a> member.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I had a chance to sit down with Rox and ask her some questions. Here's a recap of that interview:</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">How long have you been running and racing on trails and what attracted you to ultra distance races?</span></span><br />
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">My first ultra distance race was back in 2007, the inaugural SweetH2O 50K near Atlanta. </span>I love being outside and being out in nature. I prefer wilderness and mountain running much more than the roads or city. I like the community of trail/ultra runners too. Its a very chill environment which suits me. Once I ran one ultra I was hooked and now I want to run all over the U.S and even the world.</i></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="border-collapse: collapse;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Which race destinations have you run in The North Face Endurance Challenge race series and how did you place at each?</span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I first ran The North Face Endurance Challenge Madison 50 mile in 2008 and I was 2nd female. That same year I</span> ran TNFEC San Francisco 50 mile where I was 12th female and third in my age group. In June of 2009, I ran my third and last for now TNFEC race in Washington D.C. I raced the 50 mile where I was fifth female and third in my age group.</i></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Which one was your favorite and why?</div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I loved TNFEC Madison because my family was out there and it was a PR for me. TNFEC </span>San Francisco was SOOOO beautiful. I take a little something from every race. They are all wonderful in their own way. I meet such amazing people at every event!</i></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">What first attracted you to racing a TNF Endurance Challenge race?</span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="border-collapse: collapse;"><i>I wanted to run a 50 mile race that was close to my aunt. She had never seen me race before, so Madison was a perfect place for me to plan a race where at the time she lived close to that venue.</i></span></span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2bkhyB2VeRE/UD1vuqC-RtI/AAAAAAAAHpc/lH5Nkkx5-HY/s1600/imagejpeg952-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="182" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2bkhyB2VeRE/UD1vuqC-RtI/AAAAAAAAHpc/lH5Nkkx5-HY/s200/imagejpeg952-3.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sharin' the hardware </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">with Nikki Kimball!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
What is it that TNF Endurance Challenge races do better than others?</div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><i></i></span><br /><span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><i></i></span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The event is VERY well run from course markings to the swag bag. It is a very well oiled machine and organized event! </span>The fact that there are so many distances to choose is a great draw to TNF events also.</i></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">You haven't run TNF Endurance Challenge race in Georgia before, but you have run the trails at FDR State Park near Pine Mountain. How would you describe the trails and what would you advise to someone on how to get ready for them?</span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Pine Mountain has a little bit of everything. Some good climbs and descends with awesome single track. Depending on the time of year, the trail could get a bit technical with leaves covering the rocky trail segments. Recently, a tornado storm went thru FDR park and there is still some evidence of that. </span>Its not a speedy course, but you definitely run well if you're trained and in the right mind set. It's a beautiful place to run. I wish it were even closer to Atlanta.</i></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">TNFEC Georgia will be your fourth in the series, what is your goal at this year's TNF Endurance Challenge?</span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><i>This will be my first race back from injury, so I want to finish the race strong and feel good the whole time. I'M EXCITED!!</i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Thanks Rox and good luck at TNFEC Georgia in October. I can't wait to get some trail miles together while you get ready for the race.</span><br />
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><i>Thanks Javi! It's been my pleasure and I can't wait either!</i></span><br />
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">~~~~~~~~~~</span><br />
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>
<span style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I'm excited to see how Rox does at TNFEC Georgia in about a month and a half. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Her race calendar the rest of the year also includes the <a href="http://www.duncanridgetrail50k.com/" target="_blank">Duncan Ridge 50K</a> in November, one of the toughest 50K </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">courses in the Southeast.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">You can join Rox at The No</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-size: 13px;">rth Face Endurance Challenge Georgia which takes place at Pine Mountain, GA on October 13-14 weekend. Register at <a href="http://tnf.ec/0o">http://tnf.ec/0o</a> and follow @TheNorthFaceECS on Twitter</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Come back to the blog in a couple of weeks as I hope to interview and post about another local trail runner, John Dove, after he comes back from a unique mountain stage racing experience in Wales, the <a href="http://www.dragonsbackrace.com/" target="_blank">Dragon's Back Race</a>.</span></div>
<img src="http://goals.ar.gy/bug.gif?hash=9cab9febc1d3206a048d0891b2562c73" style="height: 0px; width: 0px;" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-56012691091573838442012-08-16T11:08:00.001-07:002012-08-27T18:15:00.174-07:00The North Face Endurance Challenge Georgia 10/13-10/14: Free Race Entry Give-Away! <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eB9GvMvzrOo/UC02H1VY4JI/AAAAAAAAHok/hvGlrH-LZn8/s1600/Geoff+at+TNFECS+Georgia+2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eB9GvMvzrOo/UC02H1VY4JI/AAAAAAAAHok/hvGlrH-LZn8/s320/Geoff+at+TNFECS+Georgia+2010.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2010 TNFECS Georgia 50-miler winner,<br />
Geoff Roes, on the Pine Mountain trail.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://www.thenorthface.com/en_US/endurance-challenge/atlanta-ga/?stop_mobi=yes&utm_campaign=%25%25Javier_De_Jesus%25%25&utm_content=%25%25atlanta%25%25&utm_medium=%7BSiteUrl%7D&utm_source=%25%25blog%25%25&utm_term=%25%252012%25%25" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">The North Face Endurance Challenge race series</a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> is coming back to Georgia. It's a big weekend packed with races in nine different distances. Everything from a kids race to a 50 miler and all on beautiful trails mostly the Pine Mountain Trail leading out of FDR State Park near Warm Springs, GA. The Georgia edition of The North Face Endurance Challenge takes place on October 13-14, 2012. It's two days of challenging racing and <b>you have an opportunity to win a free entry</b> to the race distance of your choice: 5K, 10K, half marathon, marathon, 50K or 50 miler. Of course, if I were you, I would use it to register for the 50K or the 50 miler. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br />And by the way, if you are into great swag…nothing beats the goodies you receive at any of The North Face Endurance Challenge race. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px;">The Finish Line Festival features music, refreshments and food. Not to mention, it will also offer free samples, product trials, demonstrations and raffle prizes from The North Face, GORE-TEX, and more.</span><br />
<div style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 12px;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;">Expect to hob knob with the big dogs too...2010 50 miler winner was Geoff Roes and last year's 50 miler winner was Hal Koerner!</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;">Meet & greet with Karnazes! </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;">A Meet and Greet with Dean Karnazes will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at The North Face Retail booth at the Finish Line Festival. Dean will be answering questions, taking photos and signing autographs during this time.</span></span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 12px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">So how do you win the free entry? It's easy really, all you have to do is help me spread the word in order to enter a random drawing and here's what I ask you to do. To qualify for the drawing, you will receive one entry for each one of the tasks you complete below:</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 12px;">
<ul>
<li style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Follow <a href="https://twitter.com/thenorthfaceecs" target="_blank">@TheNorthFaceECS</a> on Twitter</span></li>
<li style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Follow me (<a href="https://twitter.com/areyouin" target="_blank">@aReyoUiN</a>) on Twitter</span></li>
<li style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Follow this blog</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Post this on Twitter: <br />Check out @aReyoUiN's blog, he's giving away a free entry into #TheNorthFace #EnduranceChallenge Georgia. <a href="http://bit.ly/NsqM0Q">http://bit.ly/NsqM0Q</a> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">Plz RT.</span><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></li>
<li style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Like <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TNFECS" target="_blank">The North Face Endurance Challenge Race Series</a> on Facebook</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Complete all five equals five entries!</span></div>
</div>
<div style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 12px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Once you have completed any or all of the tasks above, come back to this blog entry and let me know by posting a comment on what you completed. I'll start the contest now and close it on Sunday, August 26, 2012 at 12:00 a.m. EST (midnight). </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Each entry will be assigned a random number and the winner will be pulled by selecting the entry with the highest assigned random number. Drawing will be held by Monday, August 27th, 2012 and the winner will be announced on the blog. You must be a US resident to qualify and be at least 18 years of age.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Check back on the blog too, as I'll be posting stories and interviews featuring 2012 TNF Endurance Challenge participants in the next couple of weeks.</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 12px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Don't wait? Start earning your entries and best of luck! I hope to see you on the trails.</span></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://bit.ly/tnf2012vid" title="YouTube video player" width="640"></iframe>
<img src="http://goals.ar.gy/bug.gif?hash=9cab9febc1d3206a048d0891b2562c73" style="height: 0px; width: 0px;" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-44915880006593100282012-08-11T08:18:00.000-07:002012-08-11T08:18:08.683-07:00What's happened and what's next?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5xecTggQNl0/UCZy9WAFPRI/AAAAAAAAHnw/F7LUBGoz4-I/s1600/578871_10151551643720475_580723189_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5xecTggQNl0/UCZy9WAFPRI/AAAAAAAAHnw/F7LUBGoz4-I/s640/578871_10151551643720475_580723189_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and my buddy Wes just before the start of the SweetH20 50K earlier this year.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
It's been a strange last few months regarding my running. I haven't posted on here as a result, but I decided to dust of the cobwebs and share with you what has happened and also share some thoughts as to the future of this blog.</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ATE-ig_JQl8/UCZzY8tpSDI/AAAAAAAAHn4/2RkXC3JiXtU/s1600/441545765187c28fe7689b7501553353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ATE-ig_JQl8/UCZzY8tpSDI/AAAAAAAAHn4/2RkXC3JiXtU/s200/441545765187c28fe7689b7501553353.jpg" width="149" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love the blues and purples.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
After coming off the high of the Double Top 100K back in March, I was looking forward to my last race of the Spring season, the SweetH20 50K in April. Knockin' out the 60+ miles of the Double Top course and doing it in 14 hours had me buzzing about my fitness. As long as the weather would cooperate on race day at SweetH20, there'd be no reason not to do well on that course too. However, a few weeks after Double Top, I twisted my ankle on a routine group run with friends and that changed things. It was a stupid injury too. I was just running along and I stepped off a curb and some how had my foot turned where the weight of my body made me come crashing down on it. I heard a pop and I thought it was bad. After a few minutes though, I was able to get up and walk it off. I iced it when I got home and hoped for the best. I gave it a few days before trying to run on it and when I did, iIt surprisingly felt better than I thought it would given the hematoma still coloring the swelling around my ankle. However, it was definitely not feeling 100% and I had to dial back some mileage. Heading into SweetH20, I was without a double digit run since Double Top which didn't help my confidence much.</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vki1n_G5a0w/UCZzsir2-iI/AAAAAAAAHoA/Wyg3Oat_C_s/s1600/522133_10151551644475475_1943612480_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vki1n_G5a0w/UCZzsir2-iI/AAAAAAAAHoA/Wyg3Oat_C_s/s200/522133_10151551644475475_1943612480_n.jpg" width="149" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking down at runners <br />
coming up the gas cut out.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
Race day arrived and I lined up at the start with everyone. I was particularly excited for some friends, Julie, Wes and Angela who were racing their first 50K that day. We were all gathered at the start when a Civil War era cannon was fired and off we went, a little over hundred runners down the road before hitting the trail. In the early miles, the ankle felt fine and I was keeping a good pace. I stuck with a buddy named Spurgeon for a bit, but it was obvious he was feeling fresher and so I dropped back. I've <a href="http://anecdotesfromthetrail.blogspot.com/2009/06/sweeth20-50k.html" target="_blank">reported on here</a> before about running and racing at Sweetwater Creek State Park. Johnny, the race director for SweetH20, loves to change things up, some times out of necessity like the flood a couple of years ago that took out a bridge over the creek, and some times by design. This day it was by design and it would again be a slightly different course than the previous time I ran this race. I was having fun for the first 8-10 miles. We ran on trails that I hadn't been on before, but soon the ankle started complaining. We were in some tall grass at one point and I slightly rolled it again. I got through the gas line cut out, then "Top of the World" and an out and back to an elementary school along a forest road when I started doubting my chances of finishing the day across the finish line. The power line cut out was particularly difficult and my pace started to give. Re-entering the park, I told myself that I just had to get to the creek crossing and I would be fine. A few miles later, we arrived at the ropes to cross the creek. Jumping in the water felt refreshing and instantly made my legs and even the ankle felt better. Then we hit a tough little loop before having to cross the creek a second time and when I made it back across the water again, I was done. I'm not sure as to exactly the mileage, but I don't think it was even 18 miles of the race course. The ankle was throbbing and trying to finish it off would have been senseless. I'd had a good racing season starting with the Stump Jump 50K back in October with a couple of other races in between that and this race. So I DNF'd. I was OK with it. I stayed on the creek side and cheered some friends crossing the creek. I saw Julie, Wes and Angela and they all looked great coming across. They would all go on to finish and earn their first 50K finish. I was so happy for them.</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YQ8ZIUq7SeU/UCZzvoey9DI/AAAAAAAAHoI/rQHGcq3dDdk/s1600/clavicle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YQ8ZIUq7SeU/UCZzvoey9DI/AAAAAAAAHoI/rQHGcq3dDdk/s400/clavicle.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little hardware in my shoulder.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
So what was next? I didn't have anything immediate on the calendar so I thought I'd take it easy for a few weeks, let my ankle heal and maybe even get back on the bike. My wife started training for a triathlon too, so that further had me lowering my mileage and just running to run. No training involved. Eventually, the ankle improved and I was running and cycling just fine. And then another injury happened that unfortunately now has me doing nothing at all. In the first week of July, I dove after my toddler son who was falling back down a flight of stairs and when I hit the landing, I separated the ligaments in my collar bone. I tore it right out of my AC joint. Luckily, my son was fine, but I had surgery to reconnect the clavicle. A steel plate and three screws later, I haven't been able to run or bike at all since. I have physical therapy twice a week, and until the shoulder gets stronger, I won't be able to do anything impactful. Which puts me at an odd place. In a couple of weeks, I will be registering with a friend of mine for the <a href="http://transrockies-run.com/" target="_blank">2013 TransRockies Run</a>, a six-day, 125 mile two-man team race through the Colorado Rockies. I have time to get ready since it is not until August, but I'll be anxious to get going soon. I was looking to sign up for The North Face Georgia Endurance Challenge 25K in October or the Duncan Ridge Trail 30K in November and I can still make it, but I won't be racing either by any means. We'll see. I also have tentative plans to race a couple more 50K's in the winter and spring and then the Chattanooga Stage Races next June as a tune up for the TransRockies Run. I have goals and now I just need to be patient, heal and then get back at it.</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
As for the future of this blog, I want to include additional content besides just my race reports and occasional account of long trail runs in the mountains. I'm planning on adding interviews with other trail runners. I want to hear about their adventures, goals, achievements and basically, their shared passion for this sport. I'd be happy to interview an elite trail runner, but I am more interested in those like me who run and race on trails because we love it too, but are not at the front of the pack necessarily. If that's you, leave a comment below and we'll figure out a way to connect even if by phone or Skype. I'm also going to use the blog to run occasional contests. In fact, stay tuned as I'll be rolling out a contest to give away a free entry to <a href="http://www.thenorthface.com/en_US/endurance-challenge/atlanta-ga/?stop_mobi=yes&utm_campaign=%25%25Javier_De_Jesus%25%25&utm_content=%25%25atlanta%25%25&utm_medium=%7BSiteUrl%7D&utm_source=%25%25blog%25%25&utm_term=%25%252012%25%25" target="_blank">The North Face Georgia Endurance Challenge</a> on October 13-14 in FDR State Park. If you win, you'll have your choice of running anything from a 25K to a 50 miler on some of the most beautiful, but technical, trails Georgia has to offer.</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
That's where I'm at the moment. I'll be back at it soon. I hope you'll follow along. Happy trails!</div>
<img src="http://goals.ar.gy/bug.gif?hash=9cab9febc1d3206a048d0891b2562c73" style="height: 0px; width: 0px;" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-2678973857037733522012-03-07T12:03:00.001-08:002012-08-09T18:13:12.600-07:00Running in the Cohuttas: Double Top 100K 3.3.12<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<div>
</div>
</div>
</pre>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8DPGGz9W0aE/T1fZNXhEb_I/AAAAAAAAHig/3lYVuZmiInk/s1600/IMG_0854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8DPGGz9W0aE/T1fZNXhEb_I/AAAAAAAAHig/3lYVuZmiInk/s640/IMG_0854.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up the forest road to the top of Potatopatch Mountain at around mile 22 and about 2,500 feet with the Cohutta range behind me.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This past weekend, I ran the inaugural Double Top 100K in the Cohutta Mountains in North Georgia. It was a memorable weekend with a race that had amazing scenic views, perfect weather and great camarederie. As a first time race, it had its hiccups too.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--0cHQTkyTq8/T1fZkSRYfxI/AAAAAAAAHio/zLSwFIZqA4k/s1600/IMG_0845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--0cHQTkyTq8/T1fZkSRYfxI/AAAAAAAAHio/zLSwFIZqA4k/s320/IMG_0845.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rox, me and Kelly before the start of the race.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Dodging the storm</b> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The forecast for the race, an out and back course that follows the Pinhoti Trail and a few forest roads, was totally up in the air for days. We were having unseasonably warm weather in Georgia for this time a year, but a cold front was moving in and meteorologists couldn't agree on how exactly it would play out. At one point, it was supposed to rain all weekend, but as race weekend got closer, the media was prognosticating doomsday and in some parts of Tennessee and Georgia, it kind of was just that. I drove up to Fort Mountain State Park, the site of the start, on Friday and didn't run into any bad weather at all. Meanwhile, Chattanooga, just a few miles north, was getting pounded by hail and tornadoes. South of us, a big storm system pushed through the northern suburbs of Atlanta sending people into their homes to hide in their bathrooms. Somehow, we managed to only get a few inches of rain and some strong winds. The 100 milers were set to start at 4:30am and from what I was told, they had a bit of rain to start. Us 100K participants started at 7:00am and the rain clouds were long gone along with the storm to the north and south of us. It was to be partly sunny skies and temps in the high fifties for us. Basically, perfect weather. We dodged it alright. My friends and cabin mates, Rox and Kelly, and I rolled out of bed around 6:00am to the start. Rox had the foresight to reserve a cabin months ago and it was just about a quarter mile from the start and finish. A luxury that we enjoyed indeed. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Running with the pack</b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">After a few minutes catching up with fellow runners, a little over thirty of us lined up for the start. Perry, the RD, made a few short announcements and with out much fanfare, we were off. We stayed on asphalt for a little over a mile before getting on one of the mountain bike trails in the park. Rox was gone with the leaders, leaving me and Kelly to find our groove in the pack. Within the first couple of miles, we would be joined by Bret from Virginia and Bailey from Alabama, and we would soon pick up Larry from Pennsylvannia (turns out many of the race participants were from out of state). The five of us ran about 15 miles of the first 20 miles together. When we came out of the park, we headed down the Pinhotti Connector to the first aid station. This trail is not well traveled and I found myself instinctively removing branches and other obstacles out of the way. I kept thinking that I had to climb up this trail in the dark later that night and I wanted to make that return as easy as possible. There's nothing easy about that trail, but more on that later. Kelly, Bailey and I made it to the first aid station pretty quickly. Not much need to fuel up this early in the race, but I forced myself to get something to drink and munched on a couple of pretzels. By the end of the day, I would end up proud of my nutrition and hydration as I did a good job with both through out the day and it would lead to my having a good day on the trails.</span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mzv46Mf_jVo/T1faMHDv5YI/AAAAAAAAHjo/dyF8WzHom1I/s1600/IMG_0849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mzv46Mf_jVo/T1faMHDv5YI/AAAAAAAAHjo/dyF8WzHom1I/s320/IMG_0849.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Creek crossing. One of many early on.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br />
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">After the first aid station, we kept going down until it leveled off at the lowest point of the race for a few miles and about five or six creek crossings. When I ran through here weeks earlier, the creeks weren't much of a concern at all, but with all the rain I was worried that we would have quite the difficult time dealing with them. When actually they were fine. The worst one was maybe shin deep as you can see from the picture I took of other runners. I had taken care that morning to cover my feet in Bodyglide and I wore my Smartwool socks that have never let me down. I would end the race with absolutely no blisters or hot spots, despite running through creeks this early on in the race and towards the end on the return.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">From there, the five us hit the first real climb of the day, up this single track trail and onto a forest road heading North. This portion of the route is on Tatum Mountain. We ran down a bit until we found a gate with the race markers that we obviously had to go around and continue on the forest road. This was the gate we missed weeks ago when on the practice run and I was on the look out for it. The five of us were still together with Kelly and Bailey a few yards ahead. We were trotting along when I noticed a single track trail that splintered off to the left with race ribbons marking it, but that was missed by Kelly and Bailey. We called out to them until they finally turned around and came back. We later learned that this same scenario would play out for many of the runners through out the day and at various points on the course. The trail led down to Georgia highway 52 and we ran east on that for about a half mile, the only stretch of asphalt we would be on besides the start, until we hit aid station #2 at the Cohutta Overlook. 11 miles seemed to go bu just like that. I guess it was the company. We were all sharing stories of past experiences, and Bert was letting us know how he was getting ready to run Leadville later this year. Everybody looked like they were feeling pretty good, but of course, it was still early. After the aid station, we got back on the Pinhoti trail for the next 4-5 miles. Along this section is a series of switch backs first going down and then heading back up and over Turkey Mountain. It's a fun, very runnable trail and I found myself putting some distance between me and the other four. Not intentionally, but more because I was enjoying the trail and I was on a pace that was comfortable. Exactly what you want to feel while in a long distance race. We soon arrived at the Three Forks aid station and Kelly and I ended up leaving together and some how breaking up our little group. Kelly and i followed yet another forest road for a little over a mile and then back on the Pinhoti single track for what is probably my favorite part of the course. Lots of pines in this area drop tons of needles and make the trail what a good friend of mine calls "pine straw nirvana".</span><br />
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V2GJ4Gg1htQ/T1fZu79YpnI/AAAAAAAAHjA/JNPzrrGI31A/s1600/IMG_0851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V2GJ4Gg1htQ/T1fZu79YpnI/AAAAAAAAHjA/JNPzrrGI31A/s320/IMG_0851.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kelly coming up the Pinhoti trail.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There was a group of mountain bikers out on the trail participating in a small race and this is where we would have our first "run in" with them. One of them coming down the trail happened to be John Dove, long time local ultra runner, adventure racer and just all around nice guy. He recognized me before I did him. I would have loved to talk to him for a while, but it was race time for both of us and the greeting was brief, but genuine. It was good to see him. We ran into a few more riders coming down the trail as Kelly and I kept climbing up it. We caught up and passed one of the female 100K participants and it was interesting to note how Kelly, probably without realizing it, picked up the pace to pass her. Anyway, we soon made it to the Double Top aid station and I was surprised to think back on how quickly the first 20 or so miles had gone by. The next 20 miles was all on forest roads and it is definitely the toughest part of the entire course.<br />
<br />
<b>Chasing Mike</b><br />
<br />
As we were leaving the Double Top aid station, we saw Bailey coming in, but we were ready to go and he stopped to fuel up. As soon as we left the aid station, we passed the trailhead to get back onto the Pinhoti trail. There were a few ribbons leading down the road, but I can see how several of the other runners took this turn without realizing that the course actually followed the forest road. Kelly had run this portion of the course a couple of weeks ago, and she kept us in the right direction. The next four or so miles is just one long ass climb up Potatopatch Mountain. Kelly and I started it together, but I don't know where she find an extra gear, but she started putting a gap on me. Slowly, but surely she got away and after a short while, I could no longer see her. Bailey was too far back to wait for him, so this left me alone on my way up. Along the way, I did catch up with a few other runners including a couple of the 100 milers, and we would exchange "Good job!", but everyone was all about the business of getting up this incline. I did stop at one bend where we had a great view of the range around us. Brad, a 100 miler that I caught up with, shared that we were at 2,500 feet or so at that point. The Double Top aid station we left behind is at 1,830 feet according to the race organizers and the top of the climb is at 3,520 feet. From the bend with the scenic view we would still climb another 1,000 or so feet before the climb was done. Ugh! My hands swelled up from having them at my side for so long and just trying to put one foot in front of the other. Still, I was catching a few others and that definitely kept me going. No sight of Kelly though. She was long gone.<br />
<br />
Once at the top, the forest road tees into another one and the race ribbons went to the right, but for some reason this was another trouble spot for some of the others. A couple of mountain bikers that had also made the climb saw that I went right and they called after another runner that had gone left. This runner was Mike Scott and once he turned around, he caught and passed me and I would end up chasing him for the next twenty or so miles. Thankfully, we did have a reprieve from the climb but it was short lived, the next several miles to the turn around point were a not-so-gently rolling rollercoaster of forest road running. I kept Mike in sight but I was definitely feeling the big climb and I was trying to keep my pace. The downhills were starting to hurt too. Bob, another 100K runner, would end up running behind me at a distance for most of this section, but I could sense that he was there and that kept me going too. Coming into the next aid station near Betty Gap, I was realizing that I was doing a good job with my nutrition, but I still took advantage of the food on the table. PB&J sandwiches were a staple of my race diet through out they day, but I also incorporated gels and some squeezable baby food fruit packets in between aid stations. While the baby food fruit packets don't provide much caloric value, they do provide some electrolyte replacement and something different from the more synthetic tasting sports gels.<br />
<br />
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OkG6mzigMSc/T1fcq3axZXI/AAAAAAAAHjw/GwRxpvWCPo4/s1600/IMG_0856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OkG6mzigMSc/T1fcq3axZXI/AAAAAAAAHjw/GwRxpvWCPo4/s320/IMG_0856.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kelly and Rox shortly after <br />
the turn around point.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mike took off from the aid station and I soon followed. It seemed that would distance himself on the downhills, but I would slowly inch up on him on the uphills. This pattern was the same for several miles. Along the way, we passed Mountaintown Overlook which again had amazing views of the valley below and the Cohutta rage around us. Some where around this point, we were passed by the 100K race leader. He was looking strong. Up and down we went on the forest road until finally, we headed down about two or so miles of downhill running into the turn around point with more of the runners in front of us going the other way. Right before we got there, I saw Kelly coming up the forest road and she was the first female runner I had seen. Immediately, I wondered where was Rox but I soon found out when I saw Rox about thirty or so yards behind Kelly. Kelly was looking really good and I was not surprised to later find out she held her top spot. I would later catch up with Rox myself, but more on that later. I was glad to get to the turn around point. Considering the distance covered, I thought I felt pretty good. Again, my nutrition and hydration needs were being met and other than the pain associated with covering 30+ miles, my legs felt OK and I was able to still run. When we were making our way down the forest road into the aid station, I was concerned about the climb back up, but some where I found a renewed excitement and I think it was the fact that I was passed the half way point and this carried me for several miles. That and the fact that I was now determined to stay on Mike's tail for some friendly competition. It is a race after all.</span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dq0zYT7ZGxc/T1feR_3ybPI/AAAAAAAAHj4/1VZjkizILek/s1600/IMG_0858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dq0zYT7ZGxc/T1feR_3ybPI/AAAAAAAAHj4/1VZjkizILek/s320/IMG_0858.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smiling at the turn around point. 50K to go!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Back up and over, and then down and back up, past the Mountaintown Overlook, past the Usti Yona aid station at Betty Gap, I followed Mike. The whole time he stayed a good twenty to forty yards in front of me but I never lost sight of him. We did see all of the other runners that were behind us coming at us as they made their way to the turn around point and I realized that we were a relatively small group. I also realized that I never saw Bert and Larry who I had run with in the first twenty miles. The thought crossed my mind that they must have took a wrong turn or they DNF'd or both. I never found out for sure, but after what I learned about people dropping out, I assume that's what happened to them too. Mike and I made the long downhill decent back to the Double Top aid station and I was happy to get here and get into my drop bag. </span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mike didn't waste much time and he headed out after going thourhg his drop bag and refueling at the aid station. I on the other hand took a few minutes to sort through my things, and figure out how to distribute everything, so that I didn't have to leave anything behind. I put my fresh long sleeve shirt in my running pouch and my headlamp on my head even though I wouldn't need it for a couple more hours. I ended up having to carry my vest and gloves in my hand because I had no where to put it, but I was later glad I brought them and didn't leave them behind. As I was getting my things, Greg who was managing the aid station was catching me up on what had happened with some of the other 100K and 100 mile runners dropping out. Apparently, there were quite a few from this point. Remember I mentioned John Dove earlier, well turns out that he rode his bike up the trail and "rescued" several of these lost runners earlier in the afternoon. I guess they would have gone further, if it wasn't for John. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Bringing it in</b> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">With twenty miles left to go, I knew that it was in the bag sort of speak, but in ultra running you never can be sure. Before he left the aid station, I remember Mike saying, "We'll probably hit darkness some where between the last two aid stations." and ended up being right about that. But while there was delight, I was set on covering as much ground as possible. I left the Double Top aid station up the forest road and then finally back on single track trail. It was such a relief to get off the forest road, even if there were still a few miles of it in the last segment. Going up hill, I was feeling the miles and the earlier effort, but down hill running hurt too. Yet although I was tired, my body was reacting well at this stage in the race and I felt that my "engine" was running well and ready to take on the last miles of the race. I came down the single track trail without much to do and I was soon back at the Three Forks aid station. Mike had made it into the station and left before I got there. And as I was leaving to start the climb back up the trail and Turkey Mountain, I saw Bob coming into the station. I was walking the climb, but also keeping a good pace. I stopped half way up the trail to put on my long sleeve shirt and adjust some of my clothing because the sun was starting to set and the temps were also starting to drop. Bob passed me while I was changing and admittedly, I set out to catch him once I got going again. It looked like Bob was trying to put some distance between us since he would jog a bit up the climb, but I thought I could catch him if I just kept up my pace and sure enough, that's what happened. I caught and passed him as we crested the climb and reached the saddle that led to the switchbacks on the other side. Now it was my turn to try to put some distance between us and I started running. To my mild surprise, I was holding the run and it wasn't long before I couldn't see Bob over my shoulder. Mike on the other hand was no where to be seen ahead of me. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I reached the aid station at Cohutta Overlook and there the volunteer was enjoying a Dogfishhead 90 Minute IPA and I joked that I would love to have one. It sounded so tasty! But I had my own brew goodness waiting for me back at the cabin near the finish and I think that snapped my attention to the job at hand. After leaving the aid station and covering the short segment on Highway 52, I was back on the Pinhoti trail and I picked up a runner that was in front of me, a guy named Chris from Florida. We ran together and covered the next few miles rather quickly and soon had Mike in our sights. We steadily caught up to Mike and by the time we were back on the Tatum Lead forest road, the three of us ran together for just a short while. I pushed on with my pace and while darkness settled around me, I soon found myself by myself with two headlamps bobbing up and down in the distance behind me. This boosted my confidence and I worked hard to keep that distance or widen it. I reached the single track trail again that descended down into the valley where the creeks we crossed earlier laid waiting for me. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As I reached the bottom, I saw the light of a headlamp in front of me and I wondered who it was. Soon I realized it was Rox. I caught up to her and it was good to see her. She encouraged me and I pushed on past her. The creek water felt good when I reached the first crossing and I didn't mind getting my shoes wet. After the first couple of creeks, I came out into an open field where all of a sudden I lost the trail among the tall grass. It took me a second to realize this, but I stayed focused and looked around to figure out my situation. I saw another headlamp to my left and I ran towards it. It was my buddy, Brack, and he had been roaming this field for about twenty minutes trying to find his way back on the trail. We tagged together and headed towards our right along a tree line and then we saw two other headlamps ahead of us through the trees. It was Rox and Chris. We bushwhacked through the trees and across a creek to get to them. Thankfully, we were back on the trail. We all ran together for a bit, but soon Brack and I left Rox and Chris behind. Before long, we were at the last aid station. It was like a lighted oasis in the dark. The volunteers cooked me up a grilled cheese sandwich and while I waited, I munched on some cold pizza. It all hit the spot! All that was left was the last big climb up the Pinhoti Connector. I grabbed my grilled cheese sandwich and Brack and I headed up the trail. Munching on my sandwich, we made progress up the climb. The darkness had definitely settled in and we had to really watch our step. The Pinhoti Connector is covered in leaves and of all the single track trail we had been all day, it was the most technical with loose rocks and down branches all over the trail. Combine that with the grade, and this was easily the hardest part of the course other than the big climb to the top of Potatopatch earlier in the day. It took a while, but we finally made it to the entrance of the park. Only about three miles left to go. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Brack and I entered the park and settled into a pattern of walking then run-walking the rest of the course. We did almost make a mistake when the trail intersected with the gahuti Trail, but managed to stay on the correct route. As usual, the last couple of miles seemed to be endless. Anticipation stretches the last miles out, it seems. After some time, we reached the park road and then the lake where on the other side we knew Perry was waiting for us. Making our way around the lake, we soon started to see the finish line tent and the Xmas lights hanging from them. Even though we were excited, we didn't really pick up our pace much. We were happy to just trod around the lake and finish up the race. Looking behind us, we couldn't see any headlamps, so we knew that we wouldn't be caught by anyone. Soon, we saw Perry's smiling face adn when we reached the tent, he congratulated us and handed us our finisher's Double Top 100K coins. Kelly was there waiting for us too. She told us that she had finished an hour earlier and that she had won the women's race. I was so happy for her. Brack and I finished in 14:03 and were 6th and 7th respectively overall. I exceeded my expected finish time by about an hour, so I was very pleased with my finish and pleasently surprised by my position in the race. I later learned that there were more drops and that only about 20 or so finished the 100K course.</span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7KpU8RPRoT8/T1fe07lvLFI/AAAAAAAAHkA/4xMFJnwCo_4/s1600/IMG_0861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7KpU8RPRoT8/T1fe07lvLFI/AAAAAAAAHkA/4xMFJnwCo_4/s320/IMG_0861.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All finishers received this cool coin at the finish!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I high fived Brack and thanked him for sticking with me for the last couple of miles and hugged Kelly. We waited for Rox to finish and while waiting for her, Chris arrived first about ten minutes behind us and then Mike, who I had chased for many miles earlier in the race, came in shortly after him. We were starting to get worried about Rox when we saw a headlamp and from out of the shadows she appearred. Apparently, she had taken a wrong turn with about a mile to go and spent ten minutes or so retracing her steps. We were glad to see her and she was even more glad to finish herself. After a short break, Kelly, Rox and I headed to our cabin for a much deserved shower, food and a change of clothes.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Getting turned around and dropping out</b> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I couldn't have asked for a better day or race. As challenging as the course is, I still found it enjoyable and what I liked about it the most was the change in landscape and especially the amazing views. For much of the course, you get frontline views of the Cohutta Mountains all around you. I know that when Perry designed this course, he wanted it to be challenging, but he also wanted people to really appreciate it for how beautiful it is. In the original plan for the route, there was a section of the Pinhoti trail at Bear Creek that was supposed to be a part of the course, but due to restrictions from the National Park Service, these trails were off limits to the race and an alternate route was designed along forest roads. With that, it is still a beautiful course with an incredible array of different vegetation including awesome, green lichens along one section of the Pinhoti trail and scenery that rivals any on the east coast. The route also has its drawbacks, however. There are several turns that are easy to miss and even some that can lead the participant astray. I, personally, did not have any major problems on the course, but a good part of that was because I had come out weeks earlier to preview the first 20 miles and also I was running with others that knew the course as well. There were two or three turns that were questionable and that I was glad I had either some one with me or that I had the route map the race organizers provided with me. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">During and after the race, I heard of many who dropped out simply because they had taken a wrong turn, missed a turn or just went down the wrong way. There was an entire group of ten or so 100 milers that went ten miles out of their way on the Pinhoti Trail before finally realizing that they were off course. Some of the 100K participants also made the same error and then dropped once they made it back to the Double Top aid station. Yet another small group of 100 milers went down too far on the Tatum Mountain forest road and missed the single track back to the last aid station. Local forest emergency services were called to find them and once found, the race was temporarily suspended. Causing about two or three of the 100 mile runners to drop out because they were stuck at the Cohutta Overlook aid station. Of the 80 or so participants that were registered for both races, less than half finished. With most having dropped mainly from disappointment of having gone too far in the wrong direction. I feel bad for those participants and I can sympathize with their frustration, but at the same time, I feel that this is part of our sport. The race organizers took steps to provide all the tools to successfully navigate the course including sending a detailed document two nights before the race with every trail, forest road, aid station, elevation points, etc. They also held a race meeting the night before where these details were presented and every participant was provided with a route map inside a ziploc baggy. The course was marked with blue/white and blue ribbons and occasional signs. I agree that the ribbons were sparse in many sections and for a couple of turns, hard to see. Which was the problem and they certainly were difficult to find in the dark during the night. I provided what I hope was constructive feedback to the race organizers that for future races, the reflective orange survey flags would work best. All in all, it's a bummer that so many missed out. It really was a good course and the race has potential to become a classic on the Southeast race calendar. All inaugural events have kinks to work out and I hope the people that walked away frustrated will look back and realize that given the opportunity to do it again, they would line up at the start with other enthusiastic runners. I know I will. Even classic races like Western States have their route troubles, the 2011 race comes to mind when Killian Jornet, Nick Clark and others ran off course for a few miles in the early stages of the race, but still finished it. In the end, that's ultrarunning. That's our sport.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=14559" target="_blank">2012 Double Top 100K race results</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre-wrap;">2012 Double Top 100 blog roll:</span><br />
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.ultrakrautrunning.com/2012/03/race-report-2012-double-top-100.html">http://www.ultrakrautrunning.com/2012/03/race-report-2012-double-top-100.html</a></span></span><br />
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://blog.rockcreek.com/archives/rockcreek-race-team-member-roxanne-zobavas-race-report-from-the-double-top-100k.html">http://blog.rockcreek.com/archives/rockcreek-race-team-member-roxanne-zobavas-race-report-from-the-double-top-100k.html</a></span><br />
<a href="http://blog.rockcreek.com/archives/rockcreek-racer-john-browers-epic-epic-report-from-the-double-top-100.html" target="_blank">http://blog.rockcreek.com/<wbr></wbr></a></div>
</div>
archives/rockcreek-racer-john-<wbr></wbr>browers-epic-epic-report-from-<wbr></wbr>the-double-top-100.htmlAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com8Fort Mountain State Park, Chattahoochee National Forest, 181 Fort Mountain Park Rd, Chatsworth, GA 30705, USA34.7593142 -84.692100134.7462692 -84.7118411 34.7723592 -84.672359100000008tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-44392342856515505212012-03-01T18:50:00.002-08:002012-03-02T06:59:45.927-08:00Inaugural Double Top 100: Race Preview<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aU4_EqMraXQ/T1Aywy_pa2I/AAAAAAAAHg4/bx_-Urx-Qsg/s1600/photo+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="450" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aU4_EqMraXQ/T1Aywy_pa2I/AAAAAAAAHg4/bx_-Urx-Qsg/s640/photo+(3).JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming down the Pinhoti trail into the Cohutta Overlook.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
More and more, there are a growing number of ultra-distance events popping up around the country and its nice to see that is also the case here in Georgia. And it's also good to see more races beyond the 50K distance too. This weekend is the inaugural <a href="http://www.doubletop100.info/" target="_blank">Double Top 100</a> in North Georgia. A 100K and 100-miler race that takes place mostly on the Pinhoti trail in the Cohutta Mountains. In the words of Perry Sebastian, the race director...<br />
<br />
<i>This is a beautiful course with amazing scenery and unique flora. You will run by numerous inspirational overlooks, traverse the rolling switchbacks of Turkey Mountain, between the Double Top Mountains, pass by scenic overlook at headwaters of Bear Creek, and run the ridgeline encircling Cashes Valley. The course leaves Ft Mountain State Park and follows the northern section of the Pinhoti Trail until it joins the Benton Mackaye Trail. Runners opting for the shorter run (100k) will turn around and return down the Pinhoti Trail. The 100 mile runners will be treated to the vistas of Flat Top Mountain, Fowler Mountain, and Bear Den Mountains before turning around near Bushy Head Gap to return to Ft Mountain. Runners will be given 34 hours to complete the course.</i><br />
<br />
I signed up for the 100K and I'm really looking forward to it. Since Harbison 50K in January, I have been able to maintain a good weekly mileage and have had quality long training runs, including a preview run in late January on the course of the Double Top itself.<br />
<br />
I drove up to Fort Mountain Park near Chatworth, GA with my friend, Rox and there we met several other future race mates also looking to get some miles on the new race course. Fort Mountain is the start of the race and is also the site of a wonderful Fall trail marathon called, <a href="http://www.getguts.com/e-mmm.shtml" target="_blank">Mystery Mountain Marathon</a> ( a must-do, put it on your calendar!) Perry couldn't be there, but his right hand person, Vikena Yutz and volunteer-extraordinaire, Tom Wilson, were there to get us situated and going. Kena ran with us and Tom met us along the way at the designated future aid station locations along the course. Some of us were running 20 or so and others, myself included, were looking to get in about 40 miles that day. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FhaL-A-9L6Q/T1Ay1ig_RLI/AAAAAAAAHhQ/5kBfrHlJVWg/s1600/photo+(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FhaL-A-9L6Q/T1Ay1ig_RLI/AAAAAAAAHhQ/5kBfrHlJVWg/s320/photo+(6).JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think you can appreciate the grade of the <br />
Pinhoti Connector from this photo. <br />
This is looking up with the runners <br />
coming down the trail.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The original course runs about 5-6 miles in the park before heading out of it, but for today's preview run, we only did about 3-4 in the park and then Kena led us out of the main park entrance immediately onto the Pinhoti Connector. This little trail is a seldom traveled, very unmanicured trail that goes down in a steep grade. All of us were flying down this hill, when it dawned on most of us that this "fun" downhill trail will be a death march climb for the 100K runners, and especially the 100-mile runners, as all runners will hit it with about 5 miles left in the race. It's about a mile and a half from the entrance of the park to the bottom of the Pinhoti Connector where it hits the first aid station (or last if returning), and that's gonna be a long one when finishing.<br />
<br />
Anyway, Tom and his big smile welcomed us and we were all still more or less together. Once off the Pinhoti Connector, we hit a forest road for a while and then hit a series of creeks that will be early on in the race, about 8 or 9 miles into the race. When we crossed these little streams back in January, they were pretty shallow even though a couple of them were about shin deep. It's been a little bit of a rainy week here in Georgia this week with more to come tomorrow and race day, so it's going to be impossible not to cross those creeks without getting at least ankle deep in water. I'm sure my Smartwool socks will hold up.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dt44llXVrAA/T1Ayyex566I/AAAAAAAAHhA/BAb_jo2_sI8/s1600/photo+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dt44llXVrAA/T1Ayyex566I/AAAAAAAAHhA/BAb_jo2_sI8/s320/photo+(4).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cohutta Overlook. I'm afraid the view isn't gonna be much <br />
better on race day either, but on a clear day it is spectacular.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After the creeks, you are on single track for a while, then forest road up near Tatum Mountain towards the Cohutta Overlook off Highway 52. Rox and I were running with another <a href="http://www.getguts.com/" target="_blank">GUTS</a> buddy, John, and we actually took a bit of a detour, but we managed to get where we needed to be and meet up again with Tom at the overlook. After the overlook, there's a bit of asphalt along highway 52 that we'll have to run on race day for about a half mile and then we get on the Pinhoti trail and it is single track all through and over Turkey Mountain and its windy switchbacks from there. At the bottom of Turkey Mountain is aid stop number three, Three Forks. After that is another 1.5 mile or so of forest road before getting back on more single track up to the Double Top aid station. This is where we turned around for the preview run and headed back. Beyond this point is where the more serious climbing is for the course. There's about a 2,000' difference between Three Forks aid station (mile 14.3) and the Cohutta Corner after the ‘Usti-Yona aid station (mile 24.4) with tons of ups and downs in between. It'll be smart to be conservative for the first half and get through this stretch feeling good. Then enjoy the descending on the return. Always being weary of that Pinhoti Connector at the end. Perry estimates there is about 10,000-11,000 feet of elevation gain/loss on the 100K course.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5s23aRkl3Jc/T1Ay0BCLKDI/AAAAAAAAHhI/NC2OH5aSLNg/s1600/photo+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5s23aRkl3Jc/T1Ay0BCLKDI/AAAAAAAAHhI/NC2OH5aSLNg/s320/photo+(5).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John and Tom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On the preview run, we turned around at the Double Top aid station and only ran back to the Cohutta Overlook. Ending the run at about 28-29 miles for the day. We were running out of daylight and half the group had turned back much earlier. leaving me, Dan, Kena and Kia to get the additional miles in. even though we cut it short, the preview run gave me a good perspective for what to expect on the course, which was runnable single track despite some of the climbing and except for the Pinhoti Connector and more forest road than expected. The lack of real technical terrain will be a bonus and should allow for some decent times on the run.<br />
<br />
I think Perry's intention for the future is to get more of the race on single track, but much of that I understand is still pending permission from the various authorities along the way. The 100 milers will get to "enjoy" some additional climbing and they will also end up on the Benton McKaye trail for a good stretch before their turn around point at Hudson Gap.<br />
<br />
Weather forecast for Saturday is rain and highs in the 60's with low's Saturday night in the mid-30's. Dressing for this will be a challenge as it is expected to be some what balmy and warm at the start in the high 50's. Luckily, I don't mind the rain when it's not too cold, and hopefully it will blow through by the end of the afternoon and for the last bit of daylight I will enjoy on the course.<br />
<br />
There's a little over 80 runners signed up split up pretty evenly between the 100K and the 100 miler. It's gonna be a bit lonely at times on the course, but at least we'll be able to see each other after the turn around point.<br />
<br />
I'm hoping to cover the course in around 14-15 hours, but you can never know what to expect. Check back here early next week for a full report and if you're up for it, send me a <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/areyouin" target="_blank">tweet</a> during the day on Saturday. I'll have my iphone with me and every time it chimes, I'll know some one out there is virtually cheering me on.<br />
<br />
Course maps: <a href="http://www.doubletop100.info/Double_Top_100_Kilometer_Map_page_1.pdf" target="_blank">100K Map 1</a> <a href="http://www.doubletop100.info/Double_Top_100_Kilometer_Map_page_2.pdf" target="_blank">100K Map 2</a><br />
<a href="http://www.doubletop100.info/DT-2012_2_AppendixE.pdf" target="_blank">100K Course Point Chart</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-15614044893683022462012-01-11T17:52:00.000-08:002012-01-11T19:48:53.585-08:00Hot Pockets: Harbison 50K 1.7.12<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xKcvhmAi4j0/Tw43H5-JUKI/AAAAAAAAHc4/5glFRQziKUQ/s1600/382717_3001909248503_1285495847_33230042_1059268123_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xKcvhmAi4j0/Tw43H5-JUKI/AAAAAAAAHc4/5glFRQziKUQ/s640/382717_3001909248503_1285495847_33230042_1059268123_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harbison 50K...that's me second in line of this race convoy. The guy in front had a great pace going for the first few miles and we all drafted off of him for a long while. (photo: Ray Krolewicz)</td></tr></tbody></table>You guys know the comedian, Jim Gaffigan? He's got this <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tw7xPaL56Ow" target="_blank">comedy routine</a> where he talks about those nasty little microwaveable stuffed crust wrappers called "Hot Pockets". The routine is hilarious and he'll use it as the base of his whole show. Every once in a while he'll just end a bit with a falsetto and meekly sing, "hot pocket". Now, you're probably wondering what the hell does that have anything to do with a 50K in the middle of South Carolina? Well, I'll tell ya, but first let's set up the race a little...<br />
<br />
I was going into this race feeling pretty good about it. My 40-miler in December could have been a lot better for various reasons, but for the <a href="http://harbison50k.carolinaultras.com/" target="_blank">Harbison 50K</a>, I had the confidence of having a couple of good long runs under my belt. Plus, no screwed up "death" virus a week prior to the race. So, I didn't want to have any expectations, but I have to admit that I was optimistic about what was about to go down on the trails in Harbison Forest.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ex13-PpWbhA/Tw46DVVT-LI/AAAAAAAAHdY/ufYpXsWwys0/s1600/photo+%252821%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ex13-PpWbhA/Tw46DVVT-LI/AAAAAAAAHdY/ufYpXsWwys0/s200/photo+%252821%2529.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dan addressing the crowd.</td></tr></tbody></table>Rox and I pulled into the start, picked up our numbers, and got ready. There was a bonfire going and folks were gathering around keeping warm next to it. I did get to meet some cool people that I had only known via Twitter or Dailymile, that was <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/farleyville" target="_blank">Mark</a> and <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/sawya" target="_blank">Sam</a> from Grayson, GA and <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/rhtiii" target="_blank">Rob</a> from Atlanta. Great, down to earth guys and I was glad to meet them. While talking to them, Dan, the RD, stood on a stump and gave out some last minute instructions. The course is a two lap run of a 16-ish mile loop. Everyone said the first nine were easy and rolling with the tough part coming on the back six or so. Dan reiterated that same information. Shortly after, we lined up on the jeep road and started off. As expected, Rox took off in front of me. I slipped in with the front part of the middle of the pack and in no time we were on a wide track trail, then a single track trail with everybody falling into place.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j_xxZAXg63s/Tw43IrrR5pI/AAAAAAAAHdI/YgdghEFtSVU/s1600/402927_3001869007497_1285495847_33229949_116484827_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j_xxZAXg63s/Tw43IrrR5pI/AAAAAAAAHdI/YgdghEFtSVU/s200/402927_3001869007497_1285495847_33229949_116484827_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early on, right after the start.</td></tr></tbody></table>The morning was cool, but the forecast for the day was a high of 70 degrees by 2pm. That was incentive to get done early. Anyway, it was cool for the first lap. I fell behind a guy who had a really nice, steady pace and I stuck with him for the first 6 or 7 miles. At one point I felt bad and even said, "Man, I'm sorry for staying on your heels, but you have a great pace going." He responded with a "That's OK. I just hope I can hold it." So, since he didn't mind that's how we went for a while. Strange thing was that every once in a while, we would run through these odd warm pockets of air. <i>Hot pocket.</i> At first, I didn't think anything of it, but as we kept going through the initial miles, it would keep happening very occasionally. <i>Hot pocket.</i><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HAbWTsTR6vc/Tw46Dm9MHHI/AAAAAAAAHdg/RYf6-sExqsU/s1600/photo+%252822%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HAbWTsTR6vc/Tw46Dm9MHHI/AAAAAAAAHdg/RYf6-sExqsU/s320/photo+%252822%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Rox before the start.</td></tr></tbody></table>After we hit the second aid station at mile 5.8, the guy with the steady pace decided to take a nature break. Maybe he was tired of me sticking with him or maybe not, but that was the last of him I saw. I ran with him for about the first 7 miles and I think it would turn out to be one of the key success factors for the day, as my next 20 miles would turn out rather well. As I ran to aid station #3 and then #4, I would again occasionally run into these strange warm pockets of air. <i>Hot pocket.</i><br />
<br />
At this point, I was thinking about the tougher last six miles of the loop. They were coming up, but I felt good and while the trail was easy and rolling, I picked up the pace a bit. Once you hit aid station #4, there's the first significant climb of the route taking a couple of switchbacks up the side of a hill. When I hit it, I was glad to have a change in the terrain and the next few miles would prove to be different from the start for sure. Still, every once in a while...<i>hot pocket.</i> The trail also became more technical with more roots and more rocks. I was slowly catching runners and while they were walking the inclines, I ran them. I would slightly pay for it later, but while it was good, it was good.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2qi8sad6q3E/Tw43Iam4bkI/AAAAAAAAHdA/Tfy6dgrny9w/s1600/399388_3001909688514_1285495847_33230043_2111982863_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2qi8sad6q3E/Tw43Iam4bkI/AAAAAAAAHdA/Tfy6dgrny9w/s200/399388_3001909688514_1285495847_33230043_2111982863_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where's the guy in the red <br />
sleeveless going?</td></tr></tbody></table>A younger runner caught me in this back section and we would rubber band each other for the last miles of the loop. He would pass me on the downhills and I would catch and pass him on the uphills. When we both hit the Spiderwoman Trail section, we both took a slight detour that in the end only added about a quarter of a mile, but which threw me off a bit. Because as soon as I was back on the regular route, there was another runner I had passed earlier in front of me. I didn't understand at first and when I caught him a second time, I asked him, "Did you miss a section back there?" And he was surprised at first, but then he said, "Did you go straight up the rocky section?" Me, "Yes." He said, "You missed a left turn that by passed that part." Me, "Doh!" Atleast I wasn't way of course and a little extra credit doesn't hurt. Meanwhile, I was still dealing with the other guy that was passing me and I was passing him. And you guessed it, every once in a while, we would hit a...<i>hot pocket.</i><br />
<br />
We crossed one last road, climbed up a hill where I passed my "rubberband" friend for the last time, took a couple of turns and with out even realizing it, I was heading into the finish area. First lap in the bag and I felt great! First lap done in 2:33 by my watch. Could it be? Could I, dare say, shoot for a five hour 50K? I stopped at the aid station to refuel and top of my bottle. The cool weather and the strange pockets of occasional warm air, would give way to sunny skies and climbing temperatures. As I ran by Rox's car, I left my arm sleeves. I wasn't going to need them any more.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JSzleFldAJs/Tw43HWbXdhI/AAAAAAAAHcw/CbnBj0U7q2I/s1600/378966_3001905968421_1285495847_33230033_2128205230_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JSzleFldAJs/Tw43HWbXdhI/AAAAAAAAHcw/CbnBj0U7q2I/s200/378966_3001905968421_1285495847_33230033_2128205230_n.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My friend, Rox</td></tr></tbody></table>As soon as I hit the single track again, I had caught up to a local runner, Jim, and the two of us would run together for a little while. I thought that maybe the same strategy was playing out as the first lap, where I basically had a pacer, but I would not end up running with Jim as long and he would actually catch me with about two miles to go to the finish. Anyway, we cruised along for a bit and we eventually came up on my friend, Rox. I was surprised to see her and fully expected her to be way in front of me duking it out for first or second female. And although, she was in fourth place, she was not looking like she was having a good day. We caught up to her and I ran with her for a while. I asked if she was alright, and she shook her head. She was having cramps and her stomach was giving her problems too. She was determined to finish the race, but there was not going to be a podium spot for her today. We ran together for a little while and at one point I jumped in front of her and soon dropped her.<br />
<br />
After passing Rox, I passed an aid station and was about half way around the second lap. I was feeling good and enjoying the sunshine, but I was starting to feel the heat some what and also my pace was starting to drop. Kind of normal at this point of the race, but I still felt confident. I was still catching runners and I would soon hit the aid station before the beginning of the climbs. I gobbled down some salty potatoes, drank some Coke and tackled the first hill. I managed to jog up it and felt OK. I hit some of the tighter turns and the other climbs and I could feel that it was taking more effort with everyone. By the time I was back on the Spiderwoman Trail, I was paying for my earlier effort and I walked several climbs in this section. No worries, I was still moving fine on the flats and the down hills, so I was mentally OK. After finally reaching the last aid station, I knew that a PR was a done deal. I just had to hang on for the last few miles.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-APQmpPQwNSw/Tw4528SxIcI/AAAAAAAAHdQ/6VAQOrX7hx4/s1600/Backside+H50K.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-APQmpPQwNSw/Tw4528SxIcI/AAAAAAAAHdQ/6VAQOrX7hx4/s200/Backside+H50K.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See ya later!</td></tr></tbody></table>A couple of fresher runners passed me and Jim, who I ran with at the beginning of the second loop, also caught me. I kept them within sight for the last couple of miles, but it was a struggle. I crossed the last road, went up the hill, took the same turns as earlier and recognized that last down hill. I pushed for that last little bit and I could see the blue chute in front of me through the trees. When I came out in the open, I saw there was a log across the beginning of the chute. Is this the finish line? I must have thought that out loud, because a spectator was screaming, "Keep going!" So, I did. I ran to the end of the chute and that was it. Just like that. I looked at my watch and it said, 5:25. Definitely a PR for me! That second lap was slower, but not by that much. A volunteer handed me a pint glass and my medal. You gotta love low-key ultras. No roaring crowds, no PA announcers, no frills at all. Just some nice, decent swag for finishing and off to the gazebo for some freshly grilled cheeseburgers. And no, thankfully they weren't serving any Hot Pockets.<br />
<br />
Rox ended up toughing it out and came in about seven or so minutes behind me. She did keep her fourth place female standing.<br />
<br />
P.S. Thanks to Dan Hartley and all of the volunteers for making this such a fun event! Check out the Harbison 50K <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Harbison50K" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> for photos of the event or visit the <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/columbiasc/sets/72157628795645587/with/6658682715/" target="_blank">Flickr site</a>. (I stole a few photos from Ray Krolewicz for this blog, I hope he doesn't mind.)<br />
<br />
Official 2012 Harbison 50K <a href="http://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=12204" target="_blank">results</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-13045795587268305102012-01-05T17:27:00.000-08:002012-01-05T17:27:44.182-08:002012 Harbison 50K: Race Preview<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zvRgirYaKdM/TwZNWwtFybI/AAAAAAAAHco/Y3ljjSWy4gE/s1600/165580_1800858542986_1285495847_32047331_6397052_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zvRgirYaKdM/TwZNWwtFybI/AAAAAAAAHco/Y3ljjSWy4gE/s320/165580_1800858542986_1285495847_32047331_6397052_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2011 Start of Harbison 50K <i>(photo by Ray Krolewicz; <br />taken from Harbison 50K Facebook page.)</i> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We're only five days into the new year and here comes the first race, ready or not. I'm heading to Columbia, SC tomorrow for the <a href="http://harbison50k.carolinaultras.com/" target="_blank">Harbison 50K</a> which is on Saturday. I'm looking forward to it. Mainly because it's a new race for me and I always enjoy my first go around with a particular course.<br />
The Harbison 50K takes place in, well, the Harbison Forest State Park, more or less right in Columbia. It's a two loop course. To quote <a href="https://twitter.com/harbison50k" target="_blank">Dan Hartley</a>, the race director...<br />
<br />
<i>There are 18 miles of technical single track trails, with the remainder on fire roads, wide trails and stream crossings with plenty of rocks, roots and mud on the beautiful trails of the Harbison State Forest. Although a surprisingly challenging course, with plenty of aid-stations and great volunteers along with lots of hot food at the finish, this is a great 50K for your first ultra! Total elevation change is 4,186 ft.</i><br />
<br />
Compared to recent races, the Pine Mountain 40 and the Stump Jump 50K, it should be an easier one, but you really never know, do you?<br />
<br />
Earlier this week, the Southeast was hit with a frigid cold front that I, for one, was hoping would continue through the week. I just do better in the cold. Always have. But checking the forecast for Saturday in Columbia, it's going to be in the mid-40's at the start, but probably in the 60's or maybe the low-70's by the time I finish up. Sounds great, but I wouldn't mind a few degrees cooler for the high.<br />
<br />
Anyhow, I feel fit for this race and I had a good long run a couple of weeks ago. One big difference going into this race compared to Pine Mountain last month is I didn't have some freak, death virus hit me with a week to go until race day. That alone is giving me more confidence.<br />
<br />
Here's a link to the <a href="http://harbison50k.carolinaultras.com/harbison50kmap.pdf" target="_blank">course map</a>, the <a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/53184657" target="_blank">course profile</a> and a <a href="http://harbison50k.carolinaultras.com/Detailed%20Course%20Description-Harbison%2050K.pdf" target="_blank">detailed course description</a>.<br />
<br />
Check back after the race for a full race report. Happy trails!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com0Columbia, SC, USA34.0007104 -81.034814433.790089900000005 -81.3506714 34.2113309 -80.718957400000008tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-85206996912250795202011-12-07T11:14:00.001-08:002011-12-14T05:53:06.892-08:00The Good, the Bad and the Not-So-Ugly: Pine Mountain 40-Miler 12.4.11<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oZrYTSp05Io/Tuipju-wxBI/AAAAAAAAHcQ/GFEQoPk2gD8/s1600/152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oZrYTSp05Io/Tuipju-wxBI/AAAAAAAAHcQ/GFEQoPk2gD8/s640/152.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">High fiving Woody as I was coming into the first aid station.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I ran the <a href="http://www.getguts.com/e-pm40.shtml">Pine Mountain 40-Miler</a> back in
2009 and at the time, I provided a <a href="http://anecdotesfromthetrail.blogspot.com/2009/12/pine-mountain-40-miler.html">play-by-play report</a> then of that race on the
blog. So, I thought I’d take a different approach to this race report. I’m
gonna break this up for what it was in reality, an experience that proved to
be…the good, the bad and the not-so-ugly.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>THE GOOD</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As always, the good included an opportunity to trail run in
the woods with a bunch of friends. It was so great to see so many out on the
course, whether they were running, or volunteering. I’d like to take this
opportunity to thank all the volunteers and specifically to thank Kena (even
though she was following and supporting another runner, it almost seemed like
she was supporting me every time I saw her at every aid station), Phillip (who
pointed out my bloody nipples at mile 31 and offered sports tape), Kim, Harry, Joel,
Jenn, Jason, Rachel and all the other volunteers for the killer support at the Mollyhugger
Hill, Dowden Knob and Rocky Point aid stations, and to Sarah (the RD) and the
rest of the <a href="http://www.getguts.com/" target="_blank">GUTS</a> crew for another well organized and supported event. Frank
gets special mention for serving up the grilled cheese sandwiches at the TV
Tower aid stop. Too many friends out there running to list here, but I did get
to catch up with many of them post-race at the finish line. A couple of special
shout outs to Laura, Aaron D. and Woody D., it was not to be their day for any
of them as they all DNF’d for various reasons, but that’s how it goes some
times. We’ve all been there. The beauty of the sport is that there’s always the
next race.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another good thing about the race was the swag. Everyone
received a really nice, fleece winter cap and all the finishers took home a
sporty, fleece half-zip top. That beats a t-shirt any day.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When it comes to the race itself and how the day went for me,
my first 24 miles definitely represent the good. I arrived at the start with
just a few minutes to spare to hit the bathroom and pick up my number. I also
realized when I arrived, that I had forgotten my hand-held water bottle. Not
again! This happened to me at Stump Jump a couple of months ago, but luckily
this time I had a spare one liter water bottle in the car that I had brought for after the race. It would be
my faux football to carry the whole race, but it was a savior. Anyway my buddy,
Woody, drove separately, but we both managed to arrive about the same time. We
lined up with everyone and after a few words from the RD, we were off. Woody
took off with the leaders and I held back and decided to find a spot closer to
the middle of the pack. Soon we were on single track trail and the pecking
order seemed pretty set since no one seemed overly anxious to pass for the
first few miles. I really did feel good. I was chatting it up with others
around me. I met some great people that I would end up seeing all day long,
like John from Oak Ridge, TN who was running his first 40-miler, and Elizabeth from
Atlanta, GA who would end up dropping me for good at around mile 33 after
passing each other several times through out the race. When I ran part of the
course with my buddy, Doug, a couple of weeks ago, we ran out past the point
where the Mollyhugger Hill aid stop would be during the race, which is about
mile 11 of the course. I remember then thinking that I wanted to be at this
spot two hours into the race and sure enough, that’s what happened. In fact, I
hit mile 12 or so at the two hour mark and I started thinking that a sub-8 hour
race would be doable after all. I ran the course in 7:58 the last time, but I
was coming into this race a lot less prepared and with fewer long runs on my
legs. So a sub-8 hour race was optimistic. The next couple of aid stops were
very welcome sights because to get to them we had to traverse through tornado
devastated portions of the course, but more on that later. Needless to say, I
reached the TV Tower aid stop (about mile 22) and I was still feeling pretty
decent, but the wheels would soon come off.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>THE BAD</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K5QrlbyKaNk/TuiplRrk40I/AAAAAAAAHcY/kPiULyttvxg/s1600/PM40+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K5QrlbyKaNk/TuiplRrk40I/AAAAAAAAHcY/kPiULyttvxg/s320/PM40+3.JPG" width="197" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Refueling on an uphill.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Back in April, a storm and several tornadoes laid waste to
the immediate area in and near the park. Huge sections of forest trees were
tumbled over like little toothpicks. Trees were down, uprooted and slashed.
Volunteers had obviously spent many man hours cleaning up and chain sawing
miles and miles of the trail. We would encounter the first of these sections
about 12 miles into the race and it was a good mile long, between the
Mollyhugger Hill and Dowdell Knob aid stops. On the upside, because the trees
were down, there were no leaves on the trail. One of the stand out
characteristics of the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Pine</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Mountain</st1:placetype></st1:place> 40-miler is the
leaves you encounter on the trail from the autumn foliage and the level of
difficulty they add on the already technical and rocky trail. In the tornado
sections, there were no leaves, but there was also nothing else. I mean no life.
It was kind of eerie and depressing to see. And when I spoke with other runners
later, we agreed that there was like a bad spiritual vibe, a bad energy of
sorts. There were other sections on the course that were just as devastated and
I couldn’t help feel the same thing every time. On the way back at around mile
30, I was crossing one of these sections for the last time and the sun was out.
Even though it was December, it was unseasonably warm and I was already feeling
crappy at this point. Between the sun, the depressing landscape and the miles
on my legs, I hit the wall hard. By the time I arrived at the Mollyhugger Hill
aid station again around 31.5 miles in, I was walking and I still had my least
favorite section of the trail left to go. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We all hit the wall at some point, right? I mean it happens to the most experienced of
athletes, the Lance Armstrongs and even Kilian Jornets of the world. But man,
there’s no comfort in knowing that and it always sucks. Like I said, I started
to fall apart and at mile 30 started walking without running again and it
lasted several miles. I wasn’t injured. I didn’t have any blisters. I felt like
I had managed my nutrition just fine. But obviously some thing just turned off
like a switch inside. Earlier at around mile 23, I had a second wind and I had
passed several runners that I had shared the trail with for a few miles. I had
tucked my water bottle into my arm and I kept a steady pace. I even managed to
run up one of the few decent climbs on the race course and I thought I put some
distance on runners behind me. But when things went south for me, they went
south fast. Many of those same runners, now caught me and passed me. After the
aid station, we jumped on a white-blazed trail that is a lot less traveled by
hikers and the footing was more difficult with the leaves and rocks. I was so
fried, that it was all I could do to just put one foot in front of the other.
As I walked, more and more runners would pass including Elizabeth who dropped
me here for the last time. I wouldn’t see her again until after crossing the
finish. She gave me a smile and a thumbs up and flew by me like I was standing
still. I walked and walked and just tried to stay positive. Now I thought if I
finished in under nine hours, I would be lucky. But in ultras, many times if
you feel like crap, you just gotta hang on and some times things can turn
around. And they did.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>THE NOT-SO-UGLY</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I came off the white-blazed trail and hit the last manned
aid station of the course, Fox Den Cove, at around mile 34 of the course. I
lingered at the aid station and drank and ate my fill. I was joking around with
the volunteers and they were great. At one point, one of them told me that my
time was up and that I had to get moving. I looked at him and thanked him. A sign
of a good aid station in a race is they know when to push the runners along.
There’s no sense in my hanging out and the only way I was going to finish the
race was to get a move on. Leaving the station, there was a slight down hill
and feeling a bit rejuvenated I tried to jog a bit. It didn’t feel too bad. I
alternated jogging the down hills and walking the up hills until I eventually
came up on a runner that had passed me earlier when I was really feeling
terrible. Now it looked like it was his turn to feel like crap, but he was
managing to stay in front of me, the more I tried to catch him. This went on
for a little bit until we crossed a road and started on the final climb of the
day. We were both walking, but I was determined to pass him. Slowly I inched up
on him and finally passed him. Encouraged by this, I started running up the
hill and realized that I could hold the pace. Once on the ridge, I made it a point to put some distance between the two of us and I didn’t look back. I
crossed the final road crossing and the rest of the way was down hill. Just a
little over two miles to go. I was so excited. I ran down the descent and never
really walked again. The trail soon leveled off and followed a creek back to
the finish. As I was nearing the end, I saw local ultra-legend, Richard Schick
ahead of me. He had passed me earlier when I was toast. He has also “schicked”
me before at the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placetype w:st="on">Mt.</st1:placetype>
<st1:placename w:st="on">Cheaha</st1:placename></st1:place> 50K when he passed
me with less than a mile to go at that race. So, I thought that maybe I could
return the favor. He was getting closer, but as we crossed the last foot bridge
he had about a 20 yard lead on me and the finish line was too close. He
finished with 8:32:23 on the race clock and I crossed the line at 8:32:34. I
high fived Richard, thanked some of the
GUTS crew hanging out at the finish and found the nearest spot to sit my tired
ass down. Tough race, but I had seen the good, the bad, and the not-so-ugly of
it. I was happy to be done and with my time.<br />
<br />
Thank you to Vikena Yutz for the photos!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>2011 <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Pine</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Mountain</st1:placetype></st1:place> 40-Miler blog
roll:</i></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://blog.rockcreek.com/archives/rc-race-teams-sarah-woerner-wins-1st-female-at-the-pine-mountain-40-miler.html">Sarah Woerner</a> (female
winner and new course record holder)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://longhairedrunningman.blogspot.com/2011/12/pine-mountain-315_07.html" target="_blank">Aaron Dwileski</a> </i></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com1State Highway 190, Pine Mountain, GA 31822, USA32.8465951 -84.783771732.793235100000004 -84.8627357 32.8999551 -84.7048077tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2342465453887589097.post-70035910419595313292011-12-01T17:38:00.001-08:002011-12-01T17:53:27.273-08:002011 Pine Mountain 40: Race PreviewIt's Thursday, so only three days left for the 2011 Pine Mountain 40-Miler on December 4th. I am going into this race with a big question mark, my race fitness. My training has been minimal, in fact I've only had two 20+ runs since my last race, the Stump Jump 50K back on the first weekend in October. I should be fine, but I can't help feeling a bit undertrained. To boot, I picked up some nasty virus this past weekend and it had me in bed for pretty much the whole weekend. I didn't run for four days, which is odd for me. I guess a little forced taper rest should do me some good. I've shaken the bug and I do feel better, but we'll see what this means for Sunday's race.<br />
<br />
I ran Pine Mountain 40 back in 2009 and I really enjoyed it. You can read my race report: <a href="http://anecdotesfromthetrail.blogspot.com/2009/12/pine-mountain-40-miler.html">http://anecdotesfromthetrail.blogspot.com/2009/12/pine-mountain-40-miler.html</a>. It's a challenging course on leaves-covered, rocky single track trail following much of the Pine Mountain trail out of FDR State Park. The scenery is fantastic as the course includes some good ridge line running. The most obvious feature of the course are the rocks. Lots of them. They definitely keep you watching your footwork as you progress to the finish.<br />
<br />
Here's an elevation profile I borrowed from my buddy, <a href="http://bestpacescenario.blogspot.com/">Jason's blog</a>:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hCyHKuln0CQ/TtgtkUh_LSI/AAAAAAAAHcI/rfDNhJU5mOU/s1600/pine+mtn+elevation+charge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="171" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hCyHKuln0CQ/TtgtkUh_LSI/AAAAAAAAHcI/rfDNhJU5mOU/s640/pine+mtn+elevation+charge.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I did get to preview the course recently with one of my running buddy's, Doug. We drove down there a couple of Fridays ago and we ran about 25 miles, mostly on the Pine Mountain trail. The leaves were just starting to fall, so I'm sure the trail is totally covered by them now. We ran up to the spot where some tornadoes wreaked havoc earlier this year. I'm sure I'll get to see more of the damage on race day. I hear that the trail is clear of the storm debris now.<br />
<br />
Last time, I ran the race in under eight hours. I'd be happy if I did the same this time, but we'll see how I feel on race day. The weather forecast is ideal with partly cloudy, temps in the mid-30's to start and mid-60's by about the time I finish.<br />
<br />
I'm picking up Woody at about 5:00am and we are hitting the road. We should get there just in time to pick up our packets and be ready to start. I'm looking forward to it.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04891279507921082679noreply@blogger.com1