tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14025256500014870492024-03-08T06:00:03.630-05:00Jack's Ultrarunning Blog and more!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.comBlogger78125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-30544612300363206492017-07-12T01:32:00.002-04:002017-07-12T01:38:05.845-04:00SUMMER ADVENTURE 2017, THE HARDROCK 100 MILE ENDURANCE RUN PRE RACE REPORT<div class="MsoNormal">
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"><b>TRAIL FINDINGS AROUND SILVERTON</b></span></i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c_IkGZR-W3c/WWTrUXHj4DI/AAAAAAAAGbo/_ON5Ljdb_RghdIPg62ny7RCtaVwkPCq-ACLcBGAs/s1600/20170708_114829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c_IkGZR-W3c/WWTrUXHj4DI/AAAAAAAAGbo/_ON5Ljdb_RghdIPg62ny7RCtaVwkPCq-ACLcBGAs/s640/20170708_114829.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Handies Peak at just over 14,000 ft.</i></span></b></td></tr>
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Well, it’s been awhile since I wrote a blog. Seems like life is just too busy to sit down
but no better time than while tapering and acclimating for a race <span style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span> This past year has been busy with family,
dogs, house, work, you name it. All good
but never enough time. Anyway so here it
goes.<br />
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Back in December 2016, I finally was notified that I got into the Hardrock 100 mile race after 7 years of trying to get in. With only 145 entrants and thousands of
applicants every year, my name came up in the first round of lottery
picks. You accumulate tickets for every
year you apply so your chances get better over time. And this was my time. Was I excited when I heard? Not really but now that I’m here, I’m really
looking forward to running in these mountains.<br />
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The Hardrock course is not an easy course, with 33,000 feet
of climbing and 33,000 feet of descending at altitudes reaching just over
14,000 feet. But the views and the
mountains are incredible! My training
this year to prepare was much different as previous 100 milers. I have the least amount of miles in EVER
before a 100 miler but I have put in more hours every day pushing a wheelbarrow
and shoveling stone than ever before, (I started a new job in landscaping this
year working 8-11 hour days). So I have
a good core but less miles, we’ll see in the end how this all pans out.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><i>Hardrock Course Profile</i></span></b></td></tr>
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To remotely even think of finishing this race, the number
one concern for us flatlanders in the east is the altitude. Most of the course is run between 10,000 and
14,000 feet with one short visit at 7,700 feet.
So I arrived in Colorado 9 days prior to the start of the race. I flew into Denver thinking it was only 4
hours away. Wrong! More like 7 hours. It was a nice scenic drive along route 285
but long… Not unusual for me, I didn’t
do a lot of research early on to figure out all the logistics. I had my entry, I had a plane ticket and that
was it until a week before I flew out. I
didn’t even have accommodations. Kristin
did find us a room when she arrives a week later but I had my tent for the week
prior and did get a rental car before I flew out and that was enough. I never even saw the race profile or detailed
course description until Sunday while in Silverton. But I
knew it was high up and there was a lot of climbing involved, what more do you
really need to know.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Downtown Silverton</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Training, besides pushing wheelbarrows and shoveling stone,
I focused on some good mountain runs on the weekends. My weekday runs after working, I tried to
get in a 10 miler ever day varying the intensity. All sounds good but some I literally did the
walk/run for as long as I could which might have been 4-5 miles, sometimes I
would make 10. But it was a struggle. So many times I would be out on a run after
doing physical labor all day, with only 5-6 hours of sleep a night and thought
this was just what it feels like at mile 80 in a 100 miler. So I pushed on, slowly, hoping this was all
good training. The weekends were better
where I could catch up on some sleep and would do runs on Mansfield or Camel’s
Hump, sometimes both over a weekend.</div>
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On my way to Silverton I drove through Monarch Pass and took on a quick mountain hike/run.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S6RJ0Ut8rPE/WWWj7MFbojI/AAAAAAAAGcA/ZkOBz8bGBBclXcL7mAQpFQmBGFCgwl9wwCLcBGAs/s1600/monarch%2Bpass%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S6RJ0Ut8rPE/WWWj7MFbojI/AAAAAAAAGcA/ZkOBz8bGBBclXcL7mAQpFQmBGFCgwl9wwCLcBGAs/s400/monarch%2Bpass%2B1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Monarch Pass at over 11,500 ft.</span></i></b></td></tr>
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So here I am, camping out at 9,500 ft. along the South Mineral
Creek, just outside of Silverton. I
think that’s what it’s called. I had a great spot along the river with views. There are so many camping options in this area and most are free. From here I have easy access to the course and have been
getting in runs each day getting to the higher elevations of Colorado. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-krTlz_yVrlQ/WWWkusJe4UI/AAAAAAAAGcE/xWVmKF1fjwkAoqLD7GZC8ctu0_SyXJ56gCLcBGAs/s1600/20170708_073232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-krTlz_yVrlQ/WWWkusJe4UI/AAAAAAAAGcE/xWVmKF1fjwkAoqLD7GZC8ctu0_SyXJ56gCLcBGAs/s400/20170708_073232.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Camping along South Mineral Creek</i></b></span></td></tr>
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The next day I did Black Bear Pass from route 550 which heads up towards
Telluride. I got up to about 12,500 ft this on this route.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A8AXDQE1m-E/WWWlM7HFFOI/AAAAAAAAGcI/Na7ZZQEGc3wk8T98JPzQOElpVyj_0bkZQCLcBGAs/s1600/20170706_192505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A8AXDQE1m-E/WWWlM7HFFOI/AAAAAAAAGcI/Na7ZZQEGc3wk8T98JPzQOElpVyj_0bkZQCLcBGAs/s400/20170706_192505.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Black Bear Pass</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Then I attempted the following day, Little Giant but was
held short due to thunderstorms.
Thunderstorms seem to be a daily occurrence out here. Sometimes the clouds just hang but other days
they erupt. I added some more running up to the Ice Lake Trails to make it a 20 mile day. I paid for it
later that night when I almost passed out after eating dinner. Dehydration and altitude paid me a visit <span style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1402525650001487049" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1402525650001487049" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1402525650001487049" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1402525650001487049" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1402525650001487049" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1402525650001487049" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1402525650001487049" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1402525650001487049" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1402525650001487049" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><br /></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wmi9iTaaMqk/WWWlrcIGqkI/AAAAAAAAGcM/UlG5prg6MAID6UpZv-w77G72XcIyrAz6gCLcBGAs/s1600/20170707_122617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wmi9iTaaMqk/WWWlrcIGqkI/AAAAAAAAGcM/UlG5prg6MAID6UpZv-w77G72XcIyrAz6gCLcBGAs/s400/20170707_122617.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Heading up to Little Giant</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Next up was Handies Peak, the highest point in the race at just over 14,000 ft. This was about a 5 mile trek from Cunningham Gulch.<br />
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<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://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v0NgWtvEHOU/WWWnJoxjXJI/AAAAAAAAGcY/fYpmoKCoBjQ9kzYnES-El8GGSh0gGd0pQCLcBGAs/s1600/20170708_114738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v0NgWtvEHOU/WWWnJoxjXJI/AAAAAAAAGcY/fYpmoKCoBjQ9kzYnES-El8GGSh0gGd0pQCLcBGAs/s400/20170708_114738.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Awesome views in every direction from Handies Peak.</i></b></span></td></tr>
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On the way up I met some Hardrock legends. Paul who has multiple Hardrock finishes and Jimmy
who has the most DNF’s.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ayVCaXcO-Kw/WWWnK4hJo4I/AAAAAAAAGcc/1G8bIrrbXLohBGw-S0LY-C1WPIz_a2EWACEwYBhgL/s1600/20170708_100141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ayVCaXcO-Kw/WWWnK4hJo4I/AAAAAAAAGcc/1G8bIrrbXLohBGw-S0LY-C1WPIz_a2EWACEwYBhgL/s400/20170708_100141.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Paul and Jimmy</i></b></span></td></tr>
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The day after Handies was an easy day running the finish from route
550. After a river crossing and a slight uphill, it's a nice run to the finish. Looking forward to this section :)</div>
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Monday I was back at it with a run up to Green Mountain Pass at 13,000 feet. I made it out just before the storms kicked in.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KmUqvtVCy24/WWWox84UohI/AAAAAAAAGco/h9PgMCSA5gkzvG9CKXV6H1VrPT5YD1QOQCLcBGAs/s1600/20170710_103801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KmUqvtVCy24/WWWox84UohI/AAAAAAAAGco/h9PgMCSA5gkzvG9CKXV6H1VrPT5YD1QOQCLcBGAs/s400/20170710_103801.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Green Mountain Pass</span></i></b></td></tr>
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That’s it for now. I’m
on my way to the airport to pick up Kristin in Montrose and then hang out in Ouray
for a few days where we will be exploring more of the Hardrock course.<br />
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Happy Trails,<br />
<br />
<b><i>Jack</i></b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-2123134279194058292016-01-22T15:20:00.000-05:002016-01-22T15:20:48.115-05:002015 RECAP AND NEW ADVENTURES FOR 2016<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b>End of 2015 and New Adventures for 2016</b></span></div>
<span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wRpXK3XMPl4/VqJ6w9tCZGI/AAAAAAAAGXY/OVbKkhj22K8/s1600/P1010022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wRpXK3XMPl4/VqJ6w9tCZGI/AAAAAAAAGXY/OVbKkhj22K8/s400/P1010022.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">OUR NEXT ADVENTURE !!</span></b></td></tr>
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After Running Fat Dog in August, I had nothing on the schedule (except finishing house projects) but had to work some races for Pearl Izumi so was able to jump in at the last minute. Early September was the Jay Peak Trail Running Festival and late September was the VT50. Both were quite improved over the past year and were a lot of fun.<br />
<br />
The <b>Jay Peak Trail Festival</b> is a weekend long event with Saturday being the shorter 5k races and the kid’s race. You can run one or two or 3 of the 5k races with varying abilities. And these are not flat by any means. You’re at Jay Peak Ski Area so they are up and down the mountain. Even the beginner 5k is not what I would call an easy beginner trail race but still, they are all fun as long as you understand “mountain” races. The kid’s race varies in length depending on age and the kids have to get stickers at the aid stations. The more stickers the better and are rewarded at the finish with more prizes. I had to work all day so no time to run these this year. But it was a beautiful day and a great turnout. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kIH2Z8EGmsM/VqJ7CZG3FSI/AAAAAAAAGX4/7JHvb_EzB6E/s1600/Jack%2B1.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/-kIH2Z8EGmsM/VqJ7CZG3FSI/AAAAAAAAGX4/7JHvb_EzB6E/s320/Jack%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Jack finishing the 25k.</span></b></td></tr>
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Sunday was the big event featuring a 25k and 50k, the 50k being 2 laps. Again it’s a “mountain” race so lots of ups and downs. I decided I could squeeze in the 25k race on Sunday and be back before most of the runners to man my event tent. My wife Kristin and Aliza drove down Sunday morning to run and just managed to get there in time as they got lost on the ride and had to scramble to get ready.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QizIR53jSiI/VqJ7Dhx4PZI/AAAAAAAAGYA/f_USfhjcIKA/s1600/Kristin%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QizIR53jSiI/VqJ7Dhx4PZI/AAAAAAAAGYA/f_USfhjcIKA/s320/Kristin%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Kristin being challenged at the finish, <br />she beat him out!!</span></b></td></tr>
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Chris Bernier the RD has made some changes to the course which I thought were great and added more equipped aid stations based on some feedback from the previous year. No need to go blasting out at the start on this one as after the first mile or so as it was straight up the mountain and then up the Long Trail then down the Long Trail, then back up and down the ski trails and so forth. I was running with Aliza Lapierre from the start and we hooked up with Ludo Bruyere and Ryan Kerrigan along the way. They were all running the 50k. Some of the steeps were so steep on the down hills that you slid as you were trying to run. But it was fun! I knew I was only doing the shorter course so I blasted down some of these downhills giggling to myself leaving the 50k runners behind as I knew I didn’t have to save my quads for lap 2. The last major climb before the last downhill went on and on almost to the summit again but the reward was an even longer, steeper downhill to the finish. I never really knew what place I was in and didn’t see any one until I finished but managed coming in third place overall behind some young kids. It was nice only doing the 25k too as the temps started to heat up later on and there were a number of casualties and DNF’s in the 50k. Aliza took top honors overall with Ludo coming in third. Here are the final results: <a href="http://www.coolrunning.com/results/15/vt/Sep6_JayPea_set1.shtml" target="_blank">RESULTS</a><br />
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A few weeks later was the <b>VT50 Mile Run and Ride</b> at Ascutney Mtn. Saturday was the Expo and bib pickup with the race on Sunday so I was busy working all day at my event tent for Pearl on Saturday. I didn’t know if I was running or not until Saturday afternoon when I finally got a bib to run. Kristin came down later on Saturday to join me as she was registered for the 50 mile run. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-33uTeIUw6wI/VqJ8GYi8GQI/AAAAAAAAGYI/wFBofSco55E/s1600/20150926_163717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-33uTeIUw6wI/VqJ8GYi8GQI/AAAAAAAAGYI/wFBofSco55E/s320/20150926_163717.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Pre-VT50 mile with Mike, Kristy, Jack, Joe and Kristin</b></td></tr>
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After a nice crisp night of car camping, race day turned out to be perfect for a run or ride. My only goal was to not cramp up during the race. The previous year I was rolling on the ground numerous times in pain from heat cramps and the same thing happened in August at Fat Dog. This time I made sure to go out slower and just to hold back enough to keep the intensity lower. Any time I felt I was heating up I would back it down. And that seemed to work. I was just out having fun, enjoying the run and not really racing it. I made sure to eat and hydrate. And I was able to swallow some electrolyte pills, some days I just gag on those and start puking but this day was good. I had fun meeting some unfamiliar runners like Bernie from Canada and spent some time running with Kelsey, the women’s winner of the 50 mile. In the end I finished in just over 8 hours and won my age group. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qaSNXderhyI/VqJ9Hb_mzqI/AAAAAAAAGYg/kFM1NTOJxn4/s1600/20150927_171423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qaSNXderhyI/VqJ9Hb_mzqI/AAAAAAAAGYg/kFM1NTOJxn4/s320/20150927_171423.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Jack getting his maple syrup.</span></b></td></tr>
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Kristin had an awesome race too finishing her best ever VT50 even sprinting to the finish. RD Mike Silverman did a great job with the race this year. Having enough food for 1300+ athletes coming in all day long is a challenge and this year he got it right with plenty of food for all, Thanks Mike! Here are the results: <a href="http://www.coolrunning.com/results/15/vt/Sep27_23rdVe_set3.shtml" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">RESULTS</span></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PPoESWIHH4A/VqJ8hYdRhJI/AAAAAAAAGYY/7orB9gCbda4/s1600/20150927_165303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="291" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PPoESWIHH4A/VqJ8hYdRhJI/AAAAAAAAGYY/7orB9gCbda4/s400/20150927_165303.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Shari, Jen and Kristin post race refueling.</span></b></td></tr>
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One other quick race to mention; the <b>Canine Crossing 5k</b> at Catamount Family Outdoor Center held this year on Halloween and another perfect day. Kristin was out of town pacing a friend at Javelina in Arizona so I was home alone with the dogs. I decided I would try to run with both Charlotte and Pippa and devised a harness to attach both around my waist. Since this was all new, it would be an experience for sure. And being Halloween I thought it proper to “dress” up the girls. And with Kristin gone, I got out the Halloween makeup kit:) Charlotte became Petey from the Little Rascals and Pippa became a skunk. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pu-VVbWx4zA/VqJ-gIGDB5I/AAAAAAAAGZA/AUyisAcNQvI/s1600/Canine%2BCross%2Bpre-race%2Bexcitement.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pu-VVbWx4zA/VqJ-gIGDB5I/AAAAAAAAGZA/AUyisAcNQvI/s320/Canine%2BCross%2Bpre-race%2Bexcitement.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Pre-race excitement</span></b></td></tr>
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When we got there the girls were wild, jumping and barking, completely excited. Aliza and Serena held back the girls so I could register them, then it was socializing with the other dogs. This was a real challenge and Pippa would go one way and Charlotte the other with me in the middle of the harness. I finally decided we had to go run and get a feel for the harness and calm down. And it worked, they were working together while running and as long as we had some direction, they were good. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_BQnQYjA3dM/VqJ-MeLMStI/AAAAAAAAGY4/I1BE3yUw1zA/s1600/Race%2Bstart%2B4.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/-_BQnQYjA3dM/VqJ-MeLMStI/AAAAAAAAGY4/I1BE3yUw1zA/s320/Race%2Bstart%2B4.jpg" width="258" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Charlotte and Pippa pulling me along</span></b></td></tr>
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At the start of the race I got them near the start line so as not to be distracted too much with other dogs and off we went flying from the start. I tried to hold back for a while to get them used to it and me used to being pulled by 2 dogs but finally I let them take over. Wow, I couldn’t keep up with them on the downhills and used them to pull me up the uphills. Not before long we were running in second place which was good. As long as they could see someone ahead, that would be their carrot to chase. They were awesome, running like a team of sled dogs until Pippa saw a person at an aid station which freaked her out and needed to be redirected back on course. Back running again in unison and then a fuzzy squirrel goes running by. I thought I was done as they both bolted towards the woods in chase mode. It took every bit of strength to get them back and then it happened again chasing another squirrel. Finally back on track and near the finish Charlotte saw a young boy slowly running along. She loves kids and decided she was done running with me and did the straight arm stop waiting for the boy to catch up. Meanwhile Pippa was trying to run forward with me in the middle. So we had to wait for the boy to catch up, then Charlotte would go. Slowly I got her back up to speed and into the finish a quarter mile away. In the end we took second place overall running around an 18:30, not a bad day.<br />
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So that was the end of 2015. Not totally focused on running but still managed 3700+ miles. I'm ok with that. No injuries and 9 1/2 years of running without a day off. Got in almost 1500 miles on the old Honda motorcycle and only fell over once. All good!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-huRzd3FaP9I/VqKAsRdAQNI/AAAAAAAAGZM/KIeJ_Vc6P_E/s1600/Xmas%2Beve%2Bride%2B2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-huRzd3FaP9I/VqKAsRdAQNI/AAAAAAAAGZM/KIeJ_Vc6P_E/s320/Xmas%2Beve%2Bride%2B2015.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Last ride of the season on Christmas Eve.</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>2016</i></b></span></div>
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So here it is, the 2016 season ahead and Kristin and I were in three different lotteries to see where we might be going for 2016. First lottery, WS 100 with Kristin, a no go. Next up is Hardrock for me, 10th on the wait list, what the heck. And 7 years trying to get in. That’s just a teaser. Last year # 9 made it into the race the week before. How can you even train for that, not!! Then we both were in for the UTMB/CCC lottery, Kristin for UTMB and me for CCC as I hadn’t run enough of their “qualified races” for enough points for UTMB even though I ran UTMB in 2011 and then Tor de Geants in 2013 and Fat Dog in 2015. Crazy rules these days. Anyway, neither of us got in…..again. I was totally discouraged with all this lottery stuff, meanwhile Kristin was busy searching for a new adventure for us for 2016. I mentioned some other “lottery pick” races in the US but she was beyond that and wanted something new and exciting. So instead we are heading to Spain for the <b>Uhunmilak</b> <b>100</b>+ miler :) .<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9ko7ddQ6xRo/VqJ60xUsGkI/AAAAAAAAGXk/hUJgXexIDqo/s1600/P1010052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9ko7ddQ6xRo/VqJ60xUsGkI/AAAAAAAAGXk/hUJgXexIDqo/s400/P1010052.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Basque Country Spain, some technical terrain on course.</span></b></td></tr>
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It’s rated harder than UTMB and Hardrock with 36000 feet of climbing and 36000 feet of descending with 48 hours to finish. I wasn’t totally sold on it until I looked on a map and saw we fly in to Bilbao which is right near the ocean and there’s incredible surf there!!! I found all kinds of videos on the surf and it really is incredible. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-reEYfhof0-Q/VqKCN0a39QI/AAAAAAAAGZc/YvkCtQpn5iI/s1600/munda1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-reEYfhof0-Q/VqKCN0a39QI/AAAAAAAAGZc/YvkCtQpn5iI/s400/munda1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Incredible breaks !!</span></b></td></tr>
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Being an old surf bum from the 70’s with my surfboard still hanging in the garage, I’m suddenly all excited about going to Spain. And get this; the race entry fee with insurance is only 140 Euros!! Not the outrageous fees for 100 milers in the states. So we have to pay a bit extra for air fare but that’s ok. Now we have a new race in a country neither of us has been to that looks awesome!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l__3Wdmnh2w/VqJ61qLRt_I/AAAAAAAAGXs/VH073rUhyv4/s1600/1st.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="286" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l__3Wdmnh2w/VqJ61qLRt_I/AAAAAAAAGXs/VH073rUhyv4/s400/1st.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Somewhere on the race course.</span></b></td></tr>
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Finding some more local races to work up to Uhunmilak: Kristin is running the Boston Marathon and I’ll be running the Don’t Run Boston the day before so I can support her during the marathon. Last time we did that was in 2013, not a good year as I got totally lost at DRB and ran for 12 hours lost until sunset and joined Kristin the next day running with her from mile 13 until 1/2 mile from the finish before we were stopped suddenly because of the bombing. So we’re hoping for a much better Boston experience this year!! And we’ll see what else we can find for races.<br />
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The other good news is that after 2 years of non-stop working on our new house I’ve got to a point where I can finally relax a bit and focus more on other stuff, like running again :)<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So that’s about it, all is looking good again for 2016!</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><i>“Each morning we are born again. What we do today is what matters most.”</i></span><span style="font-family: 'PT Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 23px;"><b><i><span style="color: blue;"> </span></i></b></span><span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'PT Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 23px;">– </span><strong style="color: #262626; font-family: 'PT Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 23px;">Buddha</strong></h1>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-4392239122331487692015-09-20T00:21:00.000-04:002015-09-20T00:21:48.138-04:00FAT DOG 120 TRAIL RACE 2015 RACE REPORTBritish Columbia, Canada, August 14, 2015<br />
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Ok, I've been really bad at not blogging, too busy with life but Fat Dog was a race worth chatting about. So here it is a month later.<br />
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After not making Hardrock again, I searched all over for another fun race and somehow Fat Dog caught my attention. A point to point run, just short of Everest for elevation gain, MOST scenic ultra race in Canada and on the top 9 toughest ultras list by Outside Online!!. Now that's my kind of race!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HdOXjYiIRi0/Vf4qbqVVMlI/AAAAAAAAGWg/PZjeWjbFbUw/s1600/cropped-530326_10151549648115872_1744342084_n1%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HdOXjYiIRi0/Vf4qbqVVMlI/AAAAAAAAGWg/PZjeWjbFbUw/s320/cropped-530326_10151549648115872_1744342084_n1%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Why would you not want to run here??</span></b></td></tr>
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So it must have been around February that I signed up for Fat Dog. I talked my wife, Kristin, into running the 70 miler as she would be recovering from the VT100 just 4 weeks earlier. Coming off a really busy year personally with very little racing, I hoped that this year I would more time to focus on racing. But as it turned out this year has been just as busy. And my training really started in April after running the Rollin Irish Half Marathon and getting a good reality check. I probably set a personal worst time but more than that, it hurt so bad that I collapsed after the finish line and lied down on the side of the road trying to recover. I got my butt handed to me that day! But also knew I had some work ahead of me.<br />
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In early May, Kasie Enman literally dragged me down to run a 10 mile trail race on the Merrimack River. Worst part was I had to get up at 3:00 am to meet Kasie to drive down morning of the race. I was promised that I could sleep in the car on the way down, but that never happened. So with only a few hours sleep, I managed to hurl myself on this 10 mile course and did it hurt! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7iL3kyHxlic/Vf4hoXsqeuI/AAAAAAAAGUc/OJ25o0_QCDg/s1600/Jack%2Bat%2BMerrimack%2B10%2Bmiler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7iL3kyHxlic/Vf4hoXsqeuI/AAAAAAAAGUc/OJ25o0_QCDg/s320/Jack%2Bat%2BMerrimack%2B10%2Bmiler.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Merrimack 10 miler</span></b></td></tr>
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The following weekend was the the Sleepy Hollow 10k mountain run. I ran it the previous year in the deep mud. This year proved to be much drier but still a lot of fun and a great workout. Next up was the Vermont City Marathon. I am and have been the pace team coordinator for the Vermont City Marathon for the past 4-5 years and never know if I have to pace it or can race it until minutes before the start. With the good luck on my side, I was able to race it again. Pulled off another sub 3 hour again but that margin is getting smaller each year as father time creeps on.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z5etHyA4dLA/Vf4h1jrRoDI/AAAAAAAAGUk/AULJ4VYHgWs/s1600/Jack%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z5etHyA4dLA/Vf4h1jrRoDI/AAAAAAAAGUk/AULJ4VYHgWs/s320/Jack%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Vermont City Marathon</span></b></td></tr>
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After that training consisted of Tuesday night weekly trail races at Catamount and once or twice weekly long runs on either Mt. Mansfield or Camel's Hump. Coming into Fat Dog I was running 100-110+/- miles per week for 2 solid months and finally feeling pretty good.<br />
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So Kristin and I are busy packing up and getting ready for our 10:00 am flight the next morning to Vancouver. As I'm trying to print out the boarding passes after checking in, I get a special message from United stating our first flight has been cancelled!! But they were nice enough to book us on a new flight a day later??? At that point I had enough and went for a run as Kristin took over to try to re-book our flights. So instead of flying out at 10:00 am we had to fly out at 6:00 am in order to keep us on schedule. And as usual it was chaotic at BTV. We knew we were in trouble checking in our bags when the guy whipped out a sharpie and hand wrote our destination on the bag tags. Then I got word as I was going through security that I had 10 seconds to get to the gate or I would miss the flight. Shoes in hand, bags dragging behind I ran to make the flight. Why it is so hard to fly these days??<br />
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Next flight out of LAG to Denver we had to run to catch the plane too but worst part was arriving in Vancouver and watching for our bags on the carousal. Nothing! We really didn't expect to see them and sure enough we didn't. Luckily we had the most important items with us, race day shoes and shorts. We can find the rest hopefully. So off to the Lodge at Manning Park, the start finish of Fat Dog!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RmkbrlTql8w/Vf4nwuHutrI/AAAAAAAAGV8/JKPluUFO5Yk/s1600/20150812_111514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RmkbrlTql8w/Vf4nwuHutrI/AAAAAAAAGV8/JKPluUFO5Yk/s320/20150812_111514.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Incredible Views and Trails</span></b></td></tr>
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Manning Park was awesome, sort of a mini Yosemite atmosphere out in the middle of the Cascade Mountains of BC. Once we got checked in we were off for a quick run on some new trails. We had no idea where we were going and got lost but still, we had a great time running under these enormous pine trees. Next day we did some more exploring and found the start of the 70 mile race, which Kristin would be running, up a 8-9 mile road across from the Lodge. We did drive up and found incredible trails along the ridge. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D_X9REm8yp4/Vf4ikvc488I/AAAAAAAAGUs/Q9vToAM3DS4/s1600/20150812_093522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D_X9REm8yp4/Vf4ikvc488I/AAAAAAAAGUs/Q9vToAM3DS4/s320/20150812_093522.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Kristin enjoying the views</span></b></td></tr>
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Kristin was so excited looking at the views that she tripped on a rock and fell hard on the trail, luckily just some minor blood and bruising. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7zjpePZAPBI/Vf4kWH9kwdI/AAAAAAAAGU4/WybUV6a3Q9I/s1600/Kristin%2527s%2Bwipe%2Bout.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7zjpePZAPBI/Vf4kWH9kwdI/AAAAAAAAGU4/WybUV6a3Q9I/s320/Kristin%2527s%2Bwipe%2Bout.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Crashed and burned but ok</span></b></td></tr>
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After that we were back at the Lodge looking for our lost luggage and still no signs of any recovery or even knowing what country they might be in so we had to find a running store. Not the easiest task out in the middle of nowhere. But with a little luck we drove 90 minutes to Chilliwack and found a running store:) We got most of what we needed there and then found a Dollar store for more goodies like drop bags and other odds and ends. And then back to the Lodge to pack up drop bags as I had to have mine in order for the next morning. Kristin had an extra day but still needed to get organized too.<br />
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Thursday morning I had to drop off my drop bags and we both decided to sign up for the research project which meant about an hour of "lab" work which included cognitive and other physical tests before the race. The hard part would be to participate in these tests right after we crossed the finish line to compare results of these tests. Then we had to drive up to Princeton for the pre-race briefing about an hour away which is where we would be catching the shuttle the next morning to the race start another hour+ away. Being a point to point out in the middle of nowhere creates some scheduling challenges.<br />
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Next morning I found a ride to the start with Greg Veltkamp and his crew/pacer Joe so no need for the shuttle :) We drove over hill and dale and eventually found the start. Saw some cool mountain sheep on the way. A 10:00 am start is perfect in my book as I'm definitely not a morning person but it was warm, too warm. And right at the start we began to climb and climb and then climb some more. I was feeling good but had to back it down a bit as I knew I would be in trouble with the heat and cramping. I was running in 20-25th place and had settled in to a good pace. After about an hour I did my first electrolyte pill. Aid stations in this race are spaced farther apart than in many other races so you had to be prepared for the longer spans. I carried with me a 1.5 liter bag plus two 17 ounce bags of fluid. That seemed to work well as I never ran out of fluid. Aid stations were well stocked with food and gels too so plenty of ways to get calories in. I was right on schedule coming into the Cathedral aid station. Next up was Ashnola at mile 18, I was a little behind but not bad. But after that coming into Trapper at mile 22, I was starting in with signs of cramping so had to back down and increase the electrolyte supplements Cramping is something I have always had to deal with. Some races I have no issues, others it drops me down hard. I was hoping that the colder temps would be coming in to help and they did come in during the run to Calcite, the next aid station but intense cramping was already occurring as I crossed the summit of Flattop which stopped me dead on the trail probably 8-10 times. And during that down time on Flattop the rains had kicked in along with hail, wind and lightning. As I sat there totally locked up on the summit waiting to be struck by lightning I was thinking, this really isn't fun anymore and why am I up here and I'm so done!! I was counting how long the thunder came after the lightning to see how close it really was and it was right there. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6jQkucWuhvQ/Vf4mYdWyfuI/AAAAAAAAGVg/P6pQ6oodpWA/s1600/11902345_885391894830829_8968299700571143404_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6jQkucWuhvQ/Vf4mYdWyfuI/AAAAAAAAGVg/P6pQ6oodpWA/s320/11902345_885391894830829_8968299700571143404_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Fog and rain along Flattop</span></b></td></tr>
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Finally another runner came by and asked if I needed any salt pills. I said I had some but my hands were frozen and couldn't get to them. He opened up his pill pouch and offered me some but still, my fingers couldn't grab anything so he put four pills in the palm of my hand, thank you!! So over the next 15 minutes I managed to put down three electrolyte pills (I dropped one and couldn't get to it) which was enough to get me off of the summit and slowly moving downhill to the next aid station, at Calcite somewhere around mile 31. This last section really took it's toll on me. I went from being in 28th place to well over 100th place and losing some serious time. Heading down to Calcite I knew I was in trouble, soaking wet and exposed to driving winds along the summit I was beyond shivering. I started giving myself the self test for hypothermia. Been there before and not a good place to be so I knew to check. Well, the shivering had stopped which sometimes puts you in the later stages so I started to talk to myself out loud. I tried to say my name but all that came out was some unrecognizable slur. I was seriously slurring all my words. Not good!! I knew I had to get some warm clothes and warm up if I even thought about continuing after the next aid station and truthfully I was fully prepared to drop with every excuse in the book to justify it. Still, it didn't sit right. I once DNF'd at a 100 miler and felt like a slug and loser and didn't want to do that again. But I also wanted to finish this race alive and not end up frozen in the woods somewhere. Just before Calcite Joe Holland, a friend from the East came by and was looking good. That helped me mentally wanting to move forward but still needed to get warm. Once at Calcite I found a warm fire pit with a number of other runners who had already dropped and were trying to get warm before they had a ride out of there. As I was attempting to warm up, another friend, Bogie, came in. He saw me in trouble and offered me a dry fleece he had in a drop bag there to get me to the next aid station 10 miles away where I had a complete change of clothing and would run with me to make sure I got there OK. That truly saved me. I got warm dry clothes on, some warm food in me and off we went, slowly but moving forward. After about 30 minutes I was able to speak fluidly again without slurring so I knew things were improving. My earlier goals of finishing in 30 hours or so now turned to just finishing and staying warm.<br />
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Bogie and I made it down to Pasayten, crossed the river which felt great and ended up at the Bonnevier aid station around mile 41 where I had my drop bag. I gave my dry fleece back to Bogie and changed into my own dry clothes. I also added a hefty bag to my wardrobe. My rain coat was great back at UTMB in 2011 not so great at the TDG in 2013 and now was worthless as far as repelling rain. So I added the custom plastic bag to wear under my rain coat. I took my time getting warm and dry and eating as I knew there was a big climb coming and about 12 miles until the next aid station. I continued to lose placement in the race but it just didn't matter at this point. Survival and staying warm was priority as I still had 80 miles to go. <br />
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Back on the trail, warm and dry I was slowly feeling better. Little by little I was passing runners heading up to the Heather aid station on the top of the next peak which would be another 4 hours away. Nearing Heather we would be summiting another peak with full exposure to the elements once again. Rain and fog continued so it was just miserable along this ridge. Finally made it to Heather, mile 53, around 1:30 in the morning. There was a rather primitive tent set up barely holding on with the high winds and rain. Inside it was like a war zone with runners huddled under space blankets trying to stay warm. Some had warm water bottles on them to keep their core warm. And included was Joe Holland who was having some difficulties and was regrouping himself. Despite all the challenges, the volunteers were truly amazing there, helping in any way possible. My hands were frozen and of no use to me but a volunteer helped me get warm food, change into some other dry clothes, and put on my gloves for me. And then sent me on my way with a warm Quesadilla to go. Then it was supposed to be downhill to Nicomen Lake, mile 62 or so but it really wasn't downhill. It was more like rolling terrain for most of it still in the exposed elements. Along this stretch I came across Bogie who I hadn't seen since Bonnevier. He was just cruising along. Finally I dropped down and arrived at Nicomen Lake Aid Station around 4:30 am. The rain and wind had let up. There really wasn't much at this aid station on the side of the mountain but they did have tequila:) They claimed no one had partook in the tequila yet but were looking for takers so I volunteered. They do it at Hardrock, why not at Fat Dog. So I started a new tradition at Fat Dog, they even got a picture of it but I haven't seen it yet. So onward to Cayuse, another 11 miles away but mostly downhill. <br />
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I ran a lot of this section with Bogie, the rains had let up some and it was warming up as we were heading to lower elevations. Everything was starting to feel better except daylight was starting and it made me more tired. I needed food and drink. Finally 3 hours later I rolled into Cayuse, mile 73. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZS8kn-a4Ps/Vf4k4Gbv03I/AAAAAAAAGVA/jPR2spOsXnE/s1600/11260551_885390288164323_2384151075699657091_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZS8kn-a4Ps/Vf4k4Gbv03I/AAAAAAAAGVA/jPR2spOsXnE/s320/11260551_885390288164323_2384151075699657091_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Almost dried out, but not for long.</span></b></td></tr>
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I had a drop bag there and took my sweet time changing and reorganizing as this was my last major stop until the finish. I had one more small drop bag with an extra layer later at mile 99 but from here on in I had to be prepared for anything. Bogie was telling me I could still get in under 36 hours for the "special" buckle and I just couldn't see it but was trying to calculate in my head when I might finish. I kept thinking I still had 50 miles to go once we hit the next Cascades aid station but once I got there I realized it was only 42 miles and thought if I kicked it in, I might be able to be sub 36. So after Cascades I put it in high gear and was running at sub marathon pace for quite a while. That was great for a while, then the rains kicked in again and made running miserable again. I was totally soaked and kept getting a burning sensation around my legs and couldn't figure out what it was. The lower prickers with the rain on them made them rub against your shins and it was a constant burn for miles and miles. There was just nothing you could do but grin and bear it. So it was a long haul to mile 99 which was the last major aid station before the final summit up and over Skyline. Just heading into the Skyline aid station I saw another friend Greg Veltkamp who had passed by me as I was warming up at Calcite 70 miles ago. He was on his way to summit Skyline. At the aid station I took my time as I was cold and wet and did a complete change of clothing putting on all the warm layers I had including the hefty bag. Ate some good food and then was off to the next summit. It was still raining when I left but shortly thereafter before the next climb, it finally ended. Little by little I was peeling off layers as I was seriously overheating and didn't want another episode of cramping. Within the next 30 minutes I was down to shorts and a t-shirt and feeling good climbing and climbing. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3B1BP7ywU2I/Vf4ly4MIxeI/AAAAAAAAGVY/SQU8T-XRRzY/s1600/11228037_885379894832029_824218345805630855_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3B1BP7ywU2I/Vf4ly4MIxeI/AAAAAAAAGVY/SQU8T-XRRzY/s320/11228037_885379894832029_824218345805630855_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Rain finally stopped along Skyline.</span></b></td></tr>
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I continued to pass other runners along the way. By the next aid station at Camp Mowich, mile 107, I had caught up to Greg and his pacer Joe. I really didn't know how much time we had to spare but was concerned about breaking 36 hours so moved ahead of Greg and Joe. This last section had some of the steepest climbs of the race. Weird thing was that I felt like I had been on these trails before but had never been to BC before. At the pre-race meeting they mentioned that once you saw the burned trees you had a downhill to the finish. Problem was we saw at least 4 sections of burned out trees with steep uphills in between so if you run this race, beware of the false burned out peaks, as there are more than one. <br />
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<br />
Finally it was time to go downhill and down and down you went all the way to Lightning Lake. And darkness was starting to set in again so on with the headlamp. At many points you could see the lake but kept switch-backing back and forth not getting there. Then the headlamp started blinking, low battery. Just get me to the finish! Luckily with this new Petzl Nao I knew I had over an hour on low beam to get in. And this headlamp got me through the entire first night and then this second night too on a rechargeable battery. Sweet!!<br />
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And so it goes, I came in with time to spare under the 36 hours. 35 hours, 19 minutes and 47 seconds, 29th overall and first in my age group. Not the race that I had hoped for but sometimes you have to change your goals mid race and just run for fun. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cgLF-7GcTTA/Vf4lbl9SdnI/AAAAAAAAGVQ/fUBiSerpOpU/s1600/FD4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cgLF-7GcTTA/Vf4lbl9SdnI/AAAAAAAAGVQ/fUBiSerpOpU/s320/FD4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Bogie and Jack post race</span></b></td></tr>
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And then back to the research project. As runners crossed the line, the runners in the research project were called in to do experiments right after they crossed the finish line. They did allow me to eat something as I was famished. But still, I was exhausted after being up for nearly 40 hours and running 120 miles. It was sort of comical as they gave me the cognitive tests. I argued with the tester at one point telling him the computer was wrong and that I was right as I kept falling asleep while talking. The other tests I did lying down and was sleeping for part of it.<br />
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Then I was back to check in at the Lodge at 1:00 am to get settled before returning to the finish line to cheer on Kristin who was finishing her 70 mile race. And she had an incredible race!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-04MKD2EbgeY/Vf4naO6o5xI/AAAAAAAAGV0/F2dQG2XLomc/s1600/11889438_885391551497530_8429391744402094166_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-04MKD2EbgeY/Vf4naO6o5xI/AAAAAAAAGV0/F2dQG2XLomc/s320/11889438_885391551497530_8429391744402094166_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Kristin patiently waiting for the start of the 70 miler in the rain.</span></b></td></tr>
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Overall this race was AWESOME. The area is superb with outstanding views. The mountains are big and steep so don't be surprised at all the climbing and descending. Aid stations were incredible and volunteers, the best ever. Just take the time to make sure your accommodations are in order as the logistics can be a bit challenging. Put it on your bucket list of races!! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xsay38W68jA/Vf4lOSITYiI/AAAAAAAAGVI/XR2mLyc5hEc/s1600/Finishers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xsay38W68jA/Vf4lOSITYiI/AAAAAAAAGVI/XR2mLyc5hEc/s320/Finishers.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Jack, Joe, Greg and Kristin post race. No whiney babies here!</span></b></td></tr>
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Why run this race??<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S4hzy6gKbqg/Vf4oGBFaW5I/AAAAAAAAGWE/Jm59bn8L2-s/s1600/Fat%2BDog%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="185" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S4hzy6gKbqg/Vf4oGBFaW5I/AAAAAAAAGWE/Jm59bn8L2-s/s320/Fat%2BDog%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">The Prize !</span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eMcWqQ4hPEw/Vf4qpgPbAQI/AAAAAAAAGWo/PgzSk_5pBtw/s1600/20150816_185306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="278" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eMcWqQ4hPEw/Vf4qpgPbAQI/AAAAAAAAGWo/PgzSk_5pBtw/s320/20150816_185306.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>And the Grand Prize, with tequila :)</b></span></td></tr>
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Post Race<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0NPRpn4HqrA/Vf4oSsxZkjI/AAAAAAAAGWM/dUc1Wj_XTHw/s1600/20150817_181754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0NPRpn4HqrA/Vf4oSsxZkjI/AAAAAAAAGWM/dUc1Wj_XTHw/s320/20150817_181754.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Cankles</b></span></td></tr>
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Equipment: The Pearl Izumi Trail M2's were awesome. Wore the same pair of shoes for 120 miles. Did change my socks 5 times as they were filling up with mud and debris from the torrential rains. Petzl NAO was the best for illuminating the night sky. And Body Glide saved more than my butt running in rain for 24 hours. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kw0XJaOD_10/Vf4o2ylrWTI/AAAAAAAAGWU/hIKJFqPs2hc/s1600/20150915_225002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kw0XJaOD_10/Vf4o2ylrWTI/AAAAAAAAGWU/hIKJFqPs2hc/s320/20150915_225002.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Pearl Izumi Trail M2 v2 were awesome !!</span></b></td></tr>
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Some days are better than others. But in the end you have to be happy with yourself and do what you have to do. As the shirt says, "suck it up whiney baby". <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v9UbHtyyRzQ/Vf4nO7SQACI/AAAAAAAAGVs/iXAEF8iuIKE/s1600/FD3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v9UbHtyyRzQ/Vf4nO7SQACI/AAAAAAAAGVs/iXAEF8iuIKE/s320/FD3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-5634134912244957852015-02-10T10:27:00.000-05:002015-02-10T10:44:17.679-05:00THE RUNNING SUMMIT and 2015 Outlook<span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: large;"><b>THE RUNNING SUMMIT EAST - Distance Coaching Clinic</b></span><br />
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2014 was a crazy busy year for me in many respects, all good, but finally I can see some light and am redirecting my energies back to the running world. I just returned from a quick trip to New Jersey, driving 6 hours in the snow. Not my favorite place to go but definitely a worthwhile trip. I attended a running conference featuring some of the top coaches and authors from the sport of running sharing their expertise. In my coaching of runners I want to be able to provide the best advice I can. I have a lot of practical experience myself and often look at myself as a human guinea pig and I've been to other conferences and certifications as well. I'm always looking for ways to better train my athletes. The Running Summit East had some great discussions on the best way to train whether you're an elite or a recreational runner. The speakers provided real data based on tons of research and got into topics like more effective training sessions including high intensity training, how to eat like an elite and the newest data on hydration. We also had a hands on application of the principles of efficient running which was a lot of fun getting to run and then analyze each other's running. My group really enjoyed ripping my running apart. This was followed up with a session of core sequences including yoga to maximize the full power of your body for better running.</div>
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Now I get to put these new techniques and practices to use with my running clients and with my own running.</div>
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<b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">2015 OUTLOOK AND SCHEDULE</span></b></div>
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I'm now starting to look forward to the 2015 racing season for myself. With no luck getting into Hardrock or UTMB I found an awesome race in British Columbia, The Fat Dog 120. A point to point race of 120 miles with over 28,000 feet of climbing in some of the most scenic areas of Canada. Noted as one of the toughest Ultra races in the world by Outside Magazine, it's BC's answer to Hardrock without all the hype. Sounds like my kind of race :)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MYCzuPMROmI/VNoZijX3wFI/AAAAAAAAGSw/uS9XvkevFN4/s1600/fat-dog-100_ph.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MYCzuPMROmI/VNoZijX3wFI/AAAAAAAAGSw/uS9XvkevFN4/s1600/fat-dog-100_ph.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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I'm also getting pressure from the better half to run the Javelina 100 in Arizona. It's a loop course of 15 miles, not my favorite but have never run this and it may be a group trip:) We'll see.</div>
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Now to fill in with some other races along the way.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue;">Happy Trails</span>,</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><i><b>Jack</b></i></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-12702575416781455982015-01-05T12:18:00.001-05:002015-01-05T12:18:26.935-05:002014 HOLIDAY 100 MILE FAT ASS EVENT REPORT and END OF YEAR RECAP<h2 style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;"><b>2014 HOLIDAY 100 MILE </b></span><b style="color: red;">FAT ASS </b><b style="color: red;">EVENT REPORT </b></span></h2>
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The year has come and gone. It's been a very busy year, all good, but I just didn't have the time to get in one 100 miler this year so with a few days left in the year and the only opportunity available I took advantage of the situation. Our holiday guests left at around 9 or 10 am so I figured I could get my act together and be out the door by noon for a 100 mile run about. It was Saturday December 28th and with Kristin home, I didn't have to worry about entertaining the dogs either. Quickly I came up with 4 different loops originating from home which would be my main aid station. Other than that, I would carry the credit card with me for emergencies for the one loop into town (Burlington). The rest of the route would be on the back rolling hills of Charlotte, Hinesburg, Monkton and Ferrisburg.<br />
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I laid out clothing for changing between loops and a variety of packs to use. Temps were unseasonably warm, high 30's and low 40's but with a steady wind out of the south. A change of clothes would be nice to prevent any hypothermia after sweating. And I chose to wear shorts as it would certainly be too warm for tights. Over heating for me is like blowing a thermostat so I wanted to avoid that. I set up some snacks at the aid station (dining room table) and Kristin added some awesome goodies to the mix.<br />
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I gave Kristin a quick look at my proposed plan and opted to not even carry a phone as I would never be more than 15 miles from home and just didn't want to bother with it either. Kristin planned on running part of the first loop with me to see me off and then the final loop with me Sunday morning if all went well.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Ready to head out, just need the Pearls on my feet.</b></i></span></td></tr>
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So noon came and for once I was ready and almost on time as we headed out the door. We both struggled a bit as the first 2 1/2 miles is pretty much all uphill and we were sweating out and peeing out all the alcohol and food we consumed over the holidays. At mile 5 Kristin turned around and headed home saying her goodbyes sending me off on my Holiday Adventure.<br />
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The first loop was a rolling country loop of mostly dirt roads. With all the warm temps, it was full on mud season. I was wearing the Pearl Izumi N2 road shoe as there was no snow or ice to deal with. Typically in the winter I'll wear a trail shoe for added traction but that was not needed. First major obstacle would be the dual German Shepherds over in Hinesburg. The house has the "Deliverance" look about it but the dogs are even scarier. They like to come up from behind looking for a meal. About a mile before I was prepared for those varmints, I was approaching the crest of a hill and could see ears looking towards me. Never seen a dog there before but as I got closer I could see it was definitely waiting for me. I quickly found a stick and continued forward. The stick only got him more excited and he started coming at me but as I looked he had more of a smile than a sneer and only wanted to play fetch so we did as I got him back home that way. As I got closer to the Shepherd home I found a better stick and also a 10 lb rock for protection. I must have looked rather silly running with a rock and a stick but better to be prepared than not. I quietly ran up and by and snuck through without causing any interaction, this was good and I was most relieved:)<br />
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So on I went into the head wind into Monkton and Ferrisburg. The roads were so soft that it felt like you were running on squishy marshmallows and it was difficult at times to maintain a good stride. And it was tiring. What I discovered at about mile 20 was that I was tired from not sleeping much for 3 nights and was hungry and didn't have enough food with me. But only 6 more miles and I could refuel. Not a big deal.<br />
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I finally made it home at mile 26 and 4 hours into it and the aid station looked wonderful thanks to my lovely wife Kristin. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eaQ5PB47A6Y/VKRXDiH2AwI/AAAAAAAAGPc/jUbFGM_1Beo/s1600/Aid%2Bstation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eaQ5PB47A6Y/VKRXDiH2AwI/AAAAAAAAGPc/jUbFGM_1Beo/s1600/Aid%2Bstation.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Home Aid Station</b></i></span></td></tr>
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I had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with some coke and a pickle which was awesome. I picked at a few more things and changed out of some sweaty clothes. I took my time as there was no one else running so there was no need to hurry. I decided to change my shoes too into the Pearl Izumi H3 road shoes as the next loop for 30+ miles I would be heading into Burlington to see the Xmas lights and running mostly on asphalt and concrete. The H3 has the most cushion and support which was definitely the right choice :) So after about a 30 minute break I was out the door again into the darkness with headlamp on. <br />
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Thr run into town was somewhat effortless, nice and easy and with the wind at my back. I was also all fueled up so was feeling good again. That first loop really toasted me and I was ready to quit and wasn't feeling motivated but Kristin would have no part of that. For this Burlington loop I had grabbed a sport drink which I will not name. I had tried it in the past and it made me nauseous then but with many other runners having good success I thought I might try it again. Well, every sip was a struggle but I knew I needed to drink and so I did. I ran the back roads into Shelburne then RT 7 north since it had a sidewalk and I really didn't feel safe running at night on Spear or Dorset St. But I did venture off and run on the SB rec path up and around UVM to get off the beaten path. From there I headed into the old North End and all around seeing the festive holiday lights making my way to Church St. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Church Street, Burlington, VT</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Church St. was buzzing with holiday folks and all the stores and restaurants lit up. For me it was mile 44 and I was getting hungry again. I had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in the pack but I wanted something different. So I stopped at Ken's Pizza for a slice and a coke. It was the BEST! And it probably fueled me for a good 10 miles before I was even hungry again. I also picked up some Gatorade at Ken's. It seemed better at the time than that other drink and I could at least get it down. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o8lAr6eH0uA/VKRcGKm8jPI/AAAAAAAAGP4/vM1elHNqLC8/s1600/cheese-coca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o8lAr6eH0uA/VKRcGKm8jPI/AAAAAAAAGP4/vM1elHNqLC8/s1600/cheese-coca.jpg" height="263" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Food of Champions</b></i></span></td></tr>
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Heading from Burlington towards Charlotte the wind was starting to crank out of the south and right in my face and it seemed to be getting stronger each mile. Trying to avoid the direct in your face wind I took some alternative side routes going more east and west to break it up. It would add miles but that was ok as it would be less miles needed on one of the other loops. These alternative routes were good for a while but soon enough I was running into a dead on wind again. By the time I reached Shelburne Village the wind was really gusting. There was no way to avoid it either. I decided to run on Mt. Philo Road which became a wind tunnel at times. Luckily it wasn't frigid out and was bearable even though it would knock me sideways at times with the gusts. Finally I was home and squeaked out 34 miles on this loop so was now at 60 miles, only 40 to go!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gKHoV6saspc/VKfpm3sOYYI/AAAAAAAAGQI/bH73x8pXkvA/s1600/Mile%2B60%2Baid%2Bstation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gKHoV6saspc/VKfpm3sOYYI/AAAAAAAAGQI/bH73x8pXkvA/s1600/Mile%2B60%2Baid%2Bstation.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Mile 60 Aid Station</b></i></span></td></tr>
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Another relaxing break at the home base aid station. Shoes off, change of clothes, eat and chill out for a bit, more like 30 minutes. Nice thing about using the home for aid stations, heat, bathrooms, a refrigerator and slippers! <br />
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For the next loop I decided to change it up. I had built up some extra mileage and wanted to avoid some of that screaming wind so I decided to stay lower and run the west side of Charlotte. I had originally mapped out a loop to Hinesburg with a lot of north to south running but this would be better. So off I went. I grabbed another bottle of that awful drink figuring it had electrolytes and calories which would be good. Off I went....about a quarter mile down the road I realized I forgot the hand held water bottle. Not good so back home and out the door again, this time with the hand held. Originally I was using a pack and had the water bottles in it but wasn't using a bladder and had a difficult time grabbing the water bottle out so decided a hand held would be more efficient. I ran all the usual east Charlotte Roads and did an out and back with some variations thrown in and some hills to change it up as the east side is relatively flat. Not a very exciting loop although I had to go by the "mountain lion" section twice but didn't see any eyes following me which was good. There have been numerous sightings of a large 90-110 lb cat in this area. How would one fight off such a large critter especially if it came up from behind? Luckily it was a quiet night with a few sprinkles of rain here and there. Hopefully the rain would hold off too. By 4:01 am I was back at home, now at mile 82. When I started on Saturday I had predicted arrival times at the house and figured I would be home at this point at 4:00 am, only off by 1 minute. <br />
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Kristin and Jen would be joining me for the last loop of 18 miles but Kristin somehow thought my times were off and I wouldn't be back until 5:00 am so I had to wait a bit for Jen to arrive and for Kristin to get ready. That was fine as I was in no hurry and could sit back and relax with puppies and in my slippers:)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PrCtWc2DAVY/VKfuXyNJKpI/AAAAAAAAGQU/idFSKLwUlEc/s1600/Jack%2Band%2BCharlotte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PrCtWc2DAVY/VKfuXyNJKpI/AAAAAAAAGQU/idFSKLwUlEc/s1600/Jack%2Band%2BCharlotte.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Mile 82 Aid Station with Charlotte</b></i></span></td></tr>
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I had a quick look at the weather and we were in big hole surrounded by rain which was coming quickly. I decided to put on the light tights as we would be heading back to East Charlotte and have a 3 mile section head on into the wind. Running in shorts in that would not be fun, especially if it was raining. Waiting for the girls I was eating another peanut butter and jelly sandwich and coke when all of a sudden I was not feeling so good. All of that "special drink" mixed together with Gatorade was coming to a head and I went running outside as Jen was arriving. Yes, purged big and got rid of all of that belly sitting fluid. Kristin came out with the camera to get pics as she thought it would be nice to document the run, what a nice wife. Luckily I was done by then and was feeling much better. I was able to nibble on some food after all that wrenching which was a good thing. After almost an hour break I was out the door with Kristin and Jen for the final loop.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iDDoZkysZFc/VKfwtLJD_NI/AAAAAAAAGQg/IIaSnVocb6s/s1600/Kristin%2C%2BJack%2Band%2BJen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iDDoZkysZFc/VKfwtLJD_NI/AAAAAAAAGQg/IIaSnVocb6s/s1600/Kristin%2C%2BJack%2Band%2BJen.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Final loop with Kristin and Jen</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Heading out it was starting to rain a bit so I had put on the raincoat too. The first 2 1/2 miles is all uphill so of course I was overheating in the rain coat and tights so I took off the coat as the rain let up. And I was tired. I was doing a fair amount of walk/run, walk/run. As soon as we hit Guinea Road the wind was right in our face again so back on with the raincoat to prevent any hypothermia and kept it on for the next 3 miles. After that it was off again as we were no longer battling the wind. I wasn't feeling the best, the legs felt fine but the belly ached a little. It would come and go and I was able to nibble on some food. My running was good in spurts then I would just slow down and walk for a while. This loop had us in part of Ferrisburgh and Monkton before returning to Charlotte. More squishy dirt roads and luckily the rain was holding off. Finally back onto Guinea Road for the last leg with the wind at our backs and only 5 1/2 miles to go! I was starting to feel energized and wanted to be done so I starting to pick up the pace a bit making the girls work. Nothing like some speed work at mile 95 :) The final 2 miles are all downhill, add in a quick loop around the train station as we were .30 miles short and I was done. 20 hours and 47 minutes from when I started.<br />
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And so it goes, finally a 100 miler to end the year. Thanks Kristin and Jen for that final loop!!<br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><i><b>2014 RECAP</b></i></span></div>
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Running for me was not top priority this year as I was just too busy with the house, wedding, new puppy, etc but it was all good. I still ran every day but ran the fewest miles since 2005. Only about 3,700 miles for the year. But my 8 1/2 year streak continues. I'm just over 35,000 miles for that streak.<br />
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The second half of the year was as busy as the first but I ran all the trail races at Catamount and mountain bike raced most of the races too. And I ran with dogs which was all new for me. Pippa and I took top honors for the men at the Catamount Canine Crossing 5K.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iLJ7IsmRmVc/VKf5KY7khqI/AAAAAAAAGQw/t5k7qKOxA7g/s1600/Jack%2BPilla%2Band%2BPippaat%2BCanine%2BCross%2B5k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iLJ7IsmRmVc/VKf5KY7khqI/AAAAAAAAGQw/t5k7qKOxA7g/s1600/Jack%2BPilla%2Band%2BPippaat%2BCanine%2BCross%2B5k.jpg" height="281" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Pippa and Jack at Catamount</span></i></b></td></tr>
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And little puppy Charlotte is becoming an awesome running dog. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AZhxEIEZYcY/VKf5qO_no1I/AAAAAAAAGQ4/jdN4I_H0IVk/s1600/20150101_143221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AZhxEIEZYcY/VKf5qO_no1I/AAAAAAAAGQ4/jdN4I_H0IVk/s1600/20150101_143221.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Charlotte on Snake Mtn.</i></b></span></td></tr>
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I ran the VT 50 mile in September only to realize I was not trained for the heat at all and found myself lying on my back at times rolling around in pain from full on double leg cramps. I did crew and pace for Kristin at the VT100 and she had an awesome race setting a new 100 mile PR for herself.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kf_xfr-Tomk/VKf9B8tmrmI/AAAAAAAAGRM/R5lCmyOlwN4/s1600/Kristin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kf_xfr-Tomk/VKf9B8tmrmI/AAAAAAAAGRM/R5lCmyOlwN4/s1600/Kristin.jpg" height="400" width="220" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Kristin at VT100</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Jay Peak Trail Festival in August, I ran two 5k mountain races, placing second and first.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A_nnZ2OCG8I/VKf_fj2lDUI/AAAAAAAAGRo/W6yWdMj3iV8/s1600/jack%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A_nnZ2OCG8I/VKf_fj2lDUI/AAAAAAAAGRo/W6yWdMj3iV8/s1600/jack%2B1.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Jack crossing the finish line at Jay</i></b></span></td></tr>
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I ran nearly 29 miles at the Run Your Can Off Event this year in November, fewer than usual but I had puppy duty:)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yg0iFw2XJak/VKf-j4O-CXI/AAAAAAAAGRg/fhwaPdOzXOM/s1600/8%2Bryco%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yg0iFw2XJak/VKf-j4O-CXI/AAAAAAAAGRg/fhwaPdOzXOM/s1600/8%2Bryco%2B4.jpg" height="400" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Jack and Charlotte at RYCO</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Kristin and I ran the Southbury CT 5K Turkey trot with nearly 2000 runners, both winning our age groups which was fun. And of course Kristin set another PR for herself.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UXSvw2guOFc/VKf9myC2AiI/AAAAAAAAGRU/8sGI5CgjGoY/s1600/Kristin%2Band%2BJack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UXSvw2guOFc/VKf9myC2AiI/AAAAAAAAGRU/8sGI5CgjGoY/s1600/Kristin%2Band%2BJack.jpg" height="383" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Southbury Turkey Trot 5K</i></b></span></td></tr>
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And of course we ran the Santa 5K race in Burlington in December. Definitely not a PR for either one but I came in as 3rd male santa and Kristin had a fun run with Braxton.<br />
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The house is still consuming a lot of time but it's getting there. Next up, finishing the upstairs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dN0mdOfrq-M/VKgAKTxtOjI/AAAAAAAAGR0/ShchUD2SE64/s1600/House%2Bfront%2Bsided.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dN0mdOfrq-M/VKgAKTxtOjI/AAAAAAAAGR0/ShchUD2SE64/s1600/House%2Bfront%2Bsided.jpg" height="247" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Home Sweet Home</i></b></span></td></tr>
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I guess it was a busy year.<br />
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For 2015 I'm looking forward to another fun year with friends, family, puppies and my wife Kristin :) And some more epic races along with working with Pearl Izumi and coaching other runners. See you on the trails!<br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><b>Happy New Year!</b></span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-63849312888349326582014-07-24T10:32:00.000-04:002014-07-24T10:32:26.151-04:00MID SUMMER UPDATE<b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">RUNNING NEWS FROM THE LAST 6 MONTHS :)</span></b><br />
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OK, I've been really bad about keeping up with the Blog this year but I've been so wicked busy that I rarely have time to sit down for any length of time. But finally, things have somewhat calmed down or have come to a state of well being and normal craziness.<br />
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Not a lot of time to really race this year but have had the opportunity to throw down a few races for training.<br />
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January 2014: Went on a last minute trip to visit with John in Arizona. John so happens to have a house there and was there during January and with a free plane ticket this was a no brainer to break away from Vermont to run in shorts mid winter.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-re7G014Jr9g/U9EErdJhJvI/AAAAAAAAGLo/LJ1a0y6VWw4/s1600/20140124_123746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-re7G014Jr9g/U9EErdJhJvI/AAAAAAAAGLo/LJ1a0y6VWw4/s1600/20140124_123746.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-size: small;"><b>John Lacroix training in the hills of Arizona.</b></span></i></td></tr>
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<b>COLD WATER RUMBLE 50K</b>: Somewhere west of Phoenix. Left Burlington VT at 13 below zero on a Thursday morning. Flight disaster getting there as usual. Thanks United!! Instead of arriving before noon, arrived near 9 pm. Did manage to get some run time in at the Houston airport as I was stranded there for hours. They have a great carpeted 1 mile run in the basement where you can do speedwork racing the trains. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q97qAtjMUJE/U9EFEMld07I/AAAAAAAAGL4/bpIc-uzRYq4/s1600/Jack+at+Coldwater+Rumble+52K.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q97qAtjMUJE/U9EFEMld07I/AAAAAAAAGL4/bpIc-uzRYq4/s1600/Jack+at+Coldwater+Rumble+52K.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: small;">Racing in the desert</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Saturday morning race starting at 8:00 AM. <br />
For once in my life I was smart and only signed up for the 50K. Not much training and no heat training. It quickly warmed up to near 80 degrees in the sun and running in a desert with absolutely no shade among the cacti plants and sand. I was good for about 20 miles before dehydration and cramping kicked in. So I had to back it off. And took a wicked crash at about mile 27 landing on some hard dirt and rock. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b2gLyq2hUj8/U9EE5m-NkII/AAAAAAAAGLw/t7nov-ueSN0/s1600/Jack+at+Finish+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b2gLyq2hUj8/U9EE5m-NkII/AAAAAAAAGLw/t7nov-ueSN0/s1600/Jack+at+Finish+2.jpg" height="320" width="287" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: small;">Finished! and totally dehydrated.</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Limped it in to a 4th place overall finish. Was still nice to visit with John and leave the VT winter temporarily. Bret Sarnquist, formerly a running friend from VT who now resides in Arizona took top honors. Way to go Bret!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I4Bf1fWXyFU/U9EFNTSvq1I/AAAAAAAAGMA/a64x5_aOfFM/s1600/Bret.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I4Bf1fWXyFU/U9EFNTSvq1I/AAAAAAAAGMA/a64x5_aOfFM/s1600/Bret.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: small;">Bret on course and first to finish the 50K</span></i></b></td></tr>
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<b>SLEEPY HOLLOW MOUNTAIN RACE</b>, May 4, 2014. This was a short 10k mountain race, up and down, up and down at Sleepy Hollow XC Center in Huntington, VT. Close to home and I was around so I figured why not and a good tune up for Quadrock the next weekend. Race conditions were full on mud and it was a blast. I think I ran with a smile the whole time, jumping in and through huge mud holes. Won some maple syrup too:)<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iCyOUL00MQc/U9EMKGpuoVI/AAAAAAAAGNg/XcRqrTctsN8/s1600/Jack+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iCyOUL00MQc/U9EMKGpuoVI/AAAAAAAAGNg/XcRqrTctsN8/s1600/Jack+3.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>QUADROCK 50 MILER</b>, May 10, 2014 near Fort Collins, CO. Another last minute thought. I had to be just outside of Boulder for the Pearl Izumi National Sales Meeting and so happened to find a race near by just days before the meeting. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H9SwPOgMzTM/U9EKbC7hD5I/AAAAAAAAGMQ/r4LF-yDAdXg/s1600/Quad+training.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H9SwPOgMzTM/U9EKbC7hD5I/AAAAAAAAGMQ/r4LF-yDAdXg/s1600/Quad+training.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: small;"><i><b>Pre-race ritual with Mike Weigand</b></i></span></td></tr>
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Again, minimal training and no altitude training. But who needs altitude training as the course barely got up over 7,000 feet with 11,575 feet of vertical gain. As it turned out, I realized I had been training at 150-250 feet in elevation all winter with no trips even to Mansfield at 4395 feet. I ran out fast with all the other youngins and by mile 2 was seriously overheated and sucking wind bad. I pulled over to regroup, delayer and let the heart rate simmer down a bit. Then I went out and ran my own race. The course was awesome. Lots of ups and downs, steep climbing switchbacks, great views and a well run race. This was a 2 lapper. You run it one way, come in and then go out and run it in reverse. It got warm enough during most of the race to get somewhat dehydrated and have some cramping issues but near the end the weather changed and temps were dropping with some drizzle. I think I finished with a new PW for a 50 miler. (Personal Worst as opposed to PB, Personal Best). Still had a lot of fun.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VPAK_OxSe3g/U9EKhe-lOOI/AAAAAAAAGMY/lGmCgQVLljM/s1600/Quad+group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VPAK_OxSe3g/U9EKhe-lOOI/AAAAAAAAGMY/lGmCgQVLljM/s1600/Quad+group.jpg" height="258" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: small;">Post race celebration with Kristin Lundy, Julia Lewis and Shannon Price.</span></i></b></td></tr>
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<b>KEYBANK VERMONT CITY MARATHON</b>, Burlington, VT., May 21, 2014. As has been the case for the last 4 or so years, I have the position of Pace Team Coordinator. I recruit, organize and manage 18 awesome runners who will run at specific pace times to get runners in at a certain goal time. As the coordinator I have no specific group but am there as a reserve if a pacer has last minute issues and can't run. If all show up at the start line, I can run the race but if not, I fill in as a pacer. This year again I was blessed with great pacers who did show up so once I got them together and in the corrals I headed to the start line to run. And as usual as I'm heading over to the start line the National Anthem plays. Then it's a quick dash to the start line, turn around and race. Not much time to think about it. I saw Tony on the line and he asked if I was running 6:15 pace so we could run together. Not happening....Two weeks earlier I ran the Quadrock 50, did minimal speed work here and there so my goal was survival and to actually go slower than usual so I could hopefully come in under 3:00. That time is an aging time frame that I'm deathly afraid of. I've been running sub 3 marathons consistently at VCM since 2004. My fear is that if I can't do a sub 3 then I'm really getting old and going down that other path. Some day it will happen but until then I run in fear. I went out much slower than usual, just as planned trying to run a more even pace throughout and had one of the slower half's ever in a marathon, all good. Felt good going up Battery Hill.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r-Z-yKGzyGI/U9EKq7hknfI/AAAAAAAAGMg/9byGL6lFcPQ/s1600/Jack+VCM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r-Z-yKGzyGI/U9EKq7hknfI/AAAAAAAAGMg/9byGL6lFcPQ/s1600/Jack+VCM.jpg" height="320" width="308" /></a></div>
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Then something happened, by mile 16 the wheels just fell off completely. Everything hurt from my head to my feet and the legs were totally dead. I went from a 6:30-6:45 pace to more of a 7:30 pace. I tried running backwards, sideways, stretching and nothing helped. I ran though the neighborhoods looking at my watch thinking I'm done, I've hit the old age wall and this is it. By around mile 18 I finally conceded that I had gone over the edge and was on the downward cycle and was trying to accept that....I figured I was so slow I could just wait for one of the pace groups and run in with them. By mile 19 I was struggling physically and mentally with this whole thing and decided I wasn't ready to accept being old yet. I made a plan that at mile 20 I would kick it in and if all went well might get in just under 3 if I could get back to a 6:45 pace for the last 6 miles. I kept my slow slogging going, downed a gel with caffeine, had a drink and as soon I hit that mile 20 I took off. I was running scared but knew what I had to do. I started passing others who had passed me in my 6 mile death march and was actually feeling good.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y7cgM6mTKYI/U9ELGGLDrEI/AAAAAAAAGMo/TPQ56_IL_uk/s1600/VCM+N0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y7cgM6mTKYI/U9ELGGLDrEI/AAAAAAAAGMo/TPQ56_IL_uk/s1600/VCM+N0.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: small;">Brand New out of the box for the race, the new Pearl Izumi N0 racing flat. Awesome shoe!!</span></i></b></td></tr>
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All those aches and pains were gone and I was cruising again. I ended up passing 12 runners during the last 6 miles. I crossed the finish line in 2:58:22, escaped another year of "Father Time". It's amazing what you can do when you put your mind to it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cZDdXH6cVpY/U9Ag-cj1bxI/AAAAAAAAGLQ/LSivDwm7iLw/s1600/Father+tme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cZDdXH6cVpY/U9Ag-cj1bxI/AAAAAAAAGLQ/LSivDwm7iLw/s1600/Father+tme.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: small;"><b><i>Another victory over Father Time :)</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Now that the marathon was over I had 3 weeks to finish projects around the new house for the "family wedding" in June to be held at our new home. Biggest concern was getting in the lawn which was still a mudpit a few weeks earlier. And I decided to build a mudroom addition for the dogs 2 weeks before the wedding. In the end it all somehow happened and now I'm officially married to Kristin Lundy :)<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EKKRxv2Pa30/U9ELRRzUK8I/AAAAAAAAGMw/ysv3RQNBFI0/s1600/W+day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EKKRxv2Pa30/U9ELRRzUK8I/AAAAAAAAGMw/ysv3RQNBFI0/s1600/W+day.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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For our honeymoon we decided to have some fun and go for a jump. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JgVpnJRtxE4/U9ELZ00GHQI/AAAAAAAAGM4/6mjTXwOZ8hE/s1600/Kristin+0015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JgVpnJRtxE4/U9ELZ00GHQI/AAAAAAAAGM4/6mjTXwOZ8hE/s1600/Kristin+0015.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: small;">The happy couple about to head out the door.</span></i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H-9czW2gkdU/U9ELiN5VQ8I/AAAAAAAAGNA/XxD28jR6bTM/s1600/Kristin+0020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H-9czW2gkdU/U9ELiN5VQ8I/AAAAAAAAGNA/XxD28jR6bTM/s1600/Kristin+0020.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: small;">Jack having fun at 12,500 feet</span></i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YnbA-79Jhlo/U9ELrxkpJdI/AAAAAAAAGNI/OHjifZ56wG8/s1600/Kristin+0063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YnbA-79Jhlo/U9ELrxkpJdI/AAAAAAAAGNI/OHjifZ56wG8/s1600/Kristin+0063.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: small;">Kristin with big smiles</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Here's the house, projects are still underway but the pressure is slightly off so maybe I can train for the fall season ahead. Need to find a fun 100 miler in Oct./November and some other shorter races leading up to it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: small;">Still a work in progress.</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Oh, and the newest addition to the family, Charlotte. Will she be a running dog??<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PqOZbB4fvDA/U9EMBVbr78I/AAAAAAAAGNY/Z5uiEaPj6OI/s1600/Charlotte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PqOZbB4fvDA/U9EMBVbr78I/AAAAAAAAGNY/Z5uiEaPj6OI/s1600/Charlotte.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: small;">Charlotte</span></i></b></td></tr>
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<b><i><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;">Look for some race reports coming soon when I </span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;">figure out what I'm racing.</span></i></b></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-30350927865398869312014-02-06T09:47:00.003-05:002014-02-06T09:47:51.348-05:00TOR DES GEANTS RACE REPORT 2013<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">Courmayeur, Italy September 2013</span></h2>
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Finally some time to put a race report together. Let’s see what I can remember. An 8 hour delay flying last weekend as I headed off to a race in Arizona gives a wonderful opportunity to catch up. Upon return to the states after the Tor I was overwhelmed with work as I got immediately thrown into XC season with the high school team, worked on plans to build a house, did site work on the lot to prepare for the home and was and still am the general contractor, working on the new house which was delivered from Huntington Homes on December 10, 2014. With a toilet in place, Kristin and I moved in on Christmas Eve. Still plenty to do but we'll get there.<br />
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<b><i>THE RACE:</i></b></h3>
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<i>The Tor des Géants is the first and only race to combine long distance with the individual style of runners: the organization does not impose any compulsory stages, and the winner will be the runner who completes the race in the shortest time, making his or her own decisions on when and how long to stop for rest and refreshment. The Tor des Géants is the first race of this kind to cover an entire region, running along its spectacular paths at the foot of the highest Four-Thousanders in the Alps and through the Gran Paradiso Natural Park and the Mont Avic Regional Park. The start and the finish are in Courmayeur. The total length of the race is 336 km which must be completed with a maximum time of 150 hours. The race includes several stretches at high altitude, including 25 mountain passes over 2000 meters, 30 alpine lakes and 2 natural parks. The minimum altitude is 300 m and the highest is 3300 m. The total elevation gain is about 24000 m. The conditions can be very difficult (running in the dark, wind, cold, rain or snow). Proper training and a real ability to be self-sufficient are essential for successfully completing this individual adventure. </i><br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><i>Tor Des Geants Race Report 2013</i></span></h3>
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The Tor Des Geants turned out to be an experience of a lifetime. It was everything I thought it would be and then some. From the very start it created challenges and never let up. The night prior to the race the weather report was looking rather dismal, rain and more rain. The race didn't start until 10:00 AM which allowed for a normal night of sleep. Except all I could hear was the pouring rain which made for a restless night. As dawn broke the rain let up. Overcast skies would be great! After breakfast Kristin and I got our gear together, dressed for the worst and headed out to the start which is right in the middle of Courmayeur. No sooner did we get almost to the finish line and the rain started again. It was just miserable, 50 degrees and rain. As we waiting in line to get scanned before you could even get in the start coral, you could already feel the moisture on your skin. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">The Start Line</span></i></b></td></tr>
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It was almost start time so if we started to move, at least that would be better than just standing there getting wet. No such luck. 10:00 am was the start of the festivities which included anthems and other Italian songs to which we sang for a good 30 minutes. Finally we were off!! I decided to start the race with Kristin, more in the back of the pack instead of making my way up near the start line like I did at UTMB. She was feeling a bit nervous and had never seen mountains like this. Plus this was also our honeymoon. Yes we got married days before getting on the plane to Italy. So I thought I should at least spend a little time with my new wife :) </div>
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The start was slow but manageable, packed in with over 700 runners in the pouring rain on the narrow streets of Courmayeur. We meandered through town a bit, crossed the road and through more narrow streets going through puddles already, so much for keeping the feet dry. After a mile or so we finally hit the trails. And then we stopped. 700+ runners all hitting a steep single track trail together doesn't work much for keeping any forward momentum. Soon we were moving at a snail’s pace. </div>
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Wow I thought, this is going to be a long, slow race or rather event. We continued in this conga line for quite some time. At one point I thought I might have the opportunity to gain some ground and start passing other runners. I said my goodbyes to Kristin, telling her I would see her later that week, so much for the honeymoon. But we would have a week after the race to relax and enjoy Italy together. And off I went passing one by one, for about a minute, then the congo line again with tight single track. So it was, it was not to be a fast pace and maybe the forced slow pace would be good in the end. I was a bit nervous myself about the race being over 200 miles in the Alps of Italy. It seemed like forever but bits and pieces of the trail finally widened so you could pass but the steepness really prevented you from accelerating. </div>
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So off we all were heading to be the first mountain pass. The course included many opportunities for you to climb over summits of 8000, 9000 and 10000+ feet. It was hard to communicate with many of the runners as there definitely was a language barrier. I do not understand most of the Italian language and most of the European runners didn't understand English either. At one point I did find some other runners trying to pass others runners as well. They didn't have the usual European gear either and found out that they were from Colorado. It was Missy and Brett Gosney. There were just a handful of Americans there and we really stuck out with our Yankee gear. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wcZROqmV_6Q/UvMWm5b2eqI/AAAAAAAAGHk/rtRyD85PN6w/s1600/Missy+and+Brett.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wcZROqmV_6Q/UvMWm5b2eqI/AAAAAAAAGHk/rtRyD85PN6w/s1600/Missy+and+Brett.jpg" height="482" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Missy and Brett</span></i></b></td></tr>
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We chatted a bit and went back and forth on the course trying to move ahead. At this point the rain had stopped and the scenery was starting to open up a bit. It was still cloudy but the mountains were emerging and they were magnificent even with streams flowing from the rains earlier. </div>
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From this point on I don’t recall every step and mile so I’ll just get into some of highlights. The course was broken down into 7 sections of approximately 50K each. At each 50K was a major “life station” that provided ample food along with cots to sleep on for as long as you wanted, provided you were ahead of the cut offs. You had one drop bag that was transported around to each of the life stations. We all had the same size bag too which was a medium sized duffle bag. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Drop Bags</i></b></span></td></tr>
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In the drop bag you had to make sure you had enough provisions to get you though up to 6 days in the mountains. So dry clothes, winter gear, extra shoes and socks, etc . You also were required to keep provisions with you in a pack and for good reason as the life stations did not come too quickly. You might think of 50K as a short distance to go as in a typical 50K race in the states where maybe you can cover it in 4-6 hours. To give you an idea, the first 100K at the Tor took 27 hours. In addition to the life stations, there were rustic mountain huts along the way and village establishments where you could find food and possibly a place to sleep for an hour or two. After two hours they would wake you up and kick you out as there wasn't a lot of space and other runners might be in need of a nap. And many were so noisy that you just couldn't sleep.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sboqfeCy-ew/UvMXYrDgB9I/AAAAAAAAGH8/D1ZAGsKdJVg/s1600/Cows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sboqfeCy-ew/UvMXYrDgB9I/AAAAAAAAGH8/D1ZAGsKdJVg/s1600/Cows.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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Day one had the challenges of starting in the pouring rain, then the rain stopped for a while only to have the afternoon with more rain, lightening and hail. The steeps were incredibly steep and finally I broke out the sticks (trekking poles). Never having used them before except for a few short training runs, they were a big help in ascending some of the extremely steep terrain. But more importantly, they were almost essential on the descents for braking. Much of the trail had steep and windy single track with a loose gravel surface. Without a braking mechanism, you would slide right off the trail. And I did witness one guy in front of me who went over the bank. Luckily for him he stopped after about 10 feet. Somewhere on day one I also met up with an Aussie runner Matt Meckenstock. Matt and I spent a lot of hours together at the Tor. Matt participated in the race the previous year but had to run a shortened version of the race due to snow and unsafe conditions. So he was back to run the full race this year. Matt was a great wealth of knowledge as he had the experience of running most of the course already. He also knew to ask for food and many times you had no idea they had homemade tortellini in the back or some wonderful other meal. He also was a big help in managing sleep.<br />
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Sleep deprivation was to happen so you had to try to minimize the effects and figure out how much and when to sleep. As the first night set in, I’m not sure if it was not being acclimated to the altitude or being partially hypothermic from being wet for so long but I went in to an aid station and almost passed out. I tried to get some food down thinking I was hungry but wasn't having any luck. Every time I stood up I would get dizzy and almost fall over. So I decided to lie down for a while. Here you could nap for two hours at the most so without much choice I found a cot. It was good to regroup although I never slept but had a chance to dry out some clothes in a room with a hand blower. And with some dryer clothes and food in the belly I headed back out in the rainy evening. On a sad note, there was one casualty on the first night. The rains had kicked in again along with sleet, hail, thunder and lightning. And when nighttime arrived, it was real dark in those mountains. </div>
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A Chinese 43 year old runner (bib 1040) Yang Yuan, died from serious head injury after a fall. The accident occurred in the area of Fond du lac, under the hill of Crosatie Valgrisenche. According to what has been learned, he fell as he walked down a path made slippery by rain, about 2,650 meters above sea level. He bumped his head violently against the rocks. Our best wishes and thoughts go out to his family.</div>
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Day two provided some mental challenges. The rains were done but now with over 24 hours of being on the trail and seeing how little you progressed, it was exhausting and almost unimaginable how you were to go for 206 miles. If 100K took 27 hours when you were still “fresh” what would happen when you really got tired. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Kristin on course</i></b></span></td></tr>
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During the race I was able to follow Kristin on her journey. At most of the life bases I was able to see on-line where she was and see if she was on track. I was worried about her whereabouts on that first night as I knew she was near that fatality. Little by little she kept going staying ahead of the cutoffs and was doing great. Just past the midway point was one of the most challenging sections and I was happy to see her get through that but nearing the 125 mile mark she was losing time and had to make a decision to either get some sleep to avoid massive sleep deprivation or move ahead without sleep and take the chance of making some bad decisions from not being of sound mind. She chose to stop. She had made it through the toughest parts of the course and some of the harshest conditions but knew it was time to stop to prevent any catastrophes. I am very proud of her accomplishments, going 125 miles on some of the toughest trails anywhere on mountains much bigger than anything she had ever experienced. She'll be back to finish this race. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Kristin with her trail friends from Poland</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Somewhere on course I was coming to the top of the Col Loson and there stood what looked like an American hiking about. How could I tell? He had on US gear including Pearl Izumi running shoes. I remembered Missy and Brett talking about a friend of theirs who would be about to help them out. Yes it was Brendon Trimboli from Colorado who just ran the UTMB the week before. </div>
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Brendon and I had a great chat overlooking some of the best views in the world. He took a pic of me at the summit before I moved on. I would see Brendon on course at various stages of the race giving some great support.</div>
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Coming out of the life base Valtournenche, photo by Brendon.</div>
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Food and sleep Management: One of the biggest challenges I found was how to manage your eating and also your sleeping. Without either one, you just could not continue. I started out eating a lot of bread and cheese at every aid station. One can only eat so much of that before you start to develop issues so I switched over to more pasta. Not all the food was out there in view. Pasta was everywhere but you had to know to ask for it. I had some of the best homemade tortellini out of a tent on the side of a mountain at 10,000 feet. At another mountain aid station they had a grill going where I found the best fries and ate so much I had a hard time running for a while. <br />
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And there was no shortage of wine and Grappa. After having some trouble trying to sleep that first night I found that a glass of wine with some pasta was the best combo to relax and nap for an hour or two. Finding the right amount of sleep to maximize your energy and time management was something to learn too. It seemed like 1-2 hour naps were far better than sleeping 3 hours as after 3 hours the body just didn't want to get up and run but 1-2 hours was just enough to recharge the body and mind.</div>
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Roman Roads: All I can say is too many of these ancient highways along the course. Rough, inconsistent and hard on the feet. Sometimes would go for miles and miles.</div>
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Another thing I learned in Italy was a lesson in rest rooms. After eating too much cheese it wasn't really a problem but after eating more nuts, fruit and pasta, I need to visit the bathroom. I was at one of those smaller aid stations and found a rest room. I walked in, looked around at a porcelain hole in the floor with what looked like traction ribs on the side. Hmm, this was weird so I left. I wandered around looking for a real restroom and found another one of these porcelain holes. Then I noticed a roll of toilet paper on the wall next to the hole. After studying that I figured it out. I called it the stop and drop. Never seen anything like this in America.</div>
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The last section of the course had some less challenging sections and you almost thought that the worst was over. That didn't last for too long as it contained some of the coldest temperatures and incredible steep climbs with cables to hold on to. As the sun set, I slowly added layers, one by one as I climbed in elevation. By the time I got near the summit of the last major mountain pass I had on every piece of clothing in my pack including a winter hat, mittens and hand warmers. After that it was still a grueling descent and running through the night over alpine meadows. </div>
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At that point you knew you were getting close to the end and wanted to sprint but still had more climbs and hours to go until the finish. I did get a surge of energy for the last 10 miles and was passing other runners on the final descent. I was ready for it to be over. The final leg was running back through the streets of Courmayeur and it was quiet as it was just after midnight. Finally after 110 hours, I was done! Just in front of me was Pierre Mialocq from France. We had been running together at many times throughout the race. Even though we had a hard time understanding each other during the race, we enjoyed running together. </div>
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In the end just over half of the field of over 700 runners finished which is pretty amazing. The awards ceremony was held at the end of the week. We made a lot of new friends from the Tor from all over the world. Hopefully we'll see them again on the trail.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">The Finishers of the Tor Des Geants 2013</span></i></b><br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1402525650001487049" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1402525650001487049" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1402525650001487049" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><b><i><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></i></b></h3>
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<b><i><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: x-large;">“You are never given a dream without also being given the power to make it true. You may have to work for it, however.” </span></i></b></h3>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-42414026149051250862013-09-07T13:14:00.005-04:002013-09-07T13:14:41.036-04:00FINALLY; TIME FOR THE TOR DES GEANTS<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;"><b>The Big Race Is Here !</b></span><br />
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All week was kind of a crazy flurry to get everything ready. Not only were we preparing for a 330K race in the Italian Alps but Kristin and I were finishing up things at our places of work, filing a building permit for a new house we are building, dropping the girls off at the doggie hotel and packing for a 2 ½ week adventure in Italy, just plain craziness. But finally we were sitting on the plane totally exhausted but relieved to be able to relax. Taxiing out to the runway we were finally on our way……until the plane stopped. Too much traffic in Newark so we were told we’d have to sit on the plane parked for 40 minutes. The stress level was starting to build as I thought what if we miss our connection to Milan. Kristin reassured me that we’d be fine but all I could think about was Joe on his way to Hardrock, the same thing and he missed his connecting flight in NY and rented a car to drive to Boston so he could get out there on time. After 30 minutes, we were on our way….relieved:) We arrived in Newark with plenty of time and celebrated the first leg of the trip with a cold beer and glass of wine.<br />
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Our next flight was direct to Milan, an 8 hour flight across the big pond. The international planes are great with plenty of leg room, behind the seat screens and power plug-ins. And on this flight we even had dinner. We had both requested the vegetarian fare and little did I know since we had “special” meals, we were served first. A little vino with the meal and all was good. The darkness rolled in and we both settled in for the long flight hoping to get in some sleep as we would be losing 6 hours in the change of time zones. Kristin fell asleep after watching a movie. I was tired but my legs were jumping the whole way. I think I finally got about an hour in before it started to get light and then I couldn't stop looking out the window as we were getting closer. We flew right over the Alps and it was incredible seeing the huge mountains from overhead and thinking soon we will be running over and through those.<br />
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The Milan airport was not too hard to manage although our first case of reality hit as we were trying to find the car rental agency. You don’t think you will have an issue with the language until you try to ask someone for help and they look at you like you’re from another planet. Somehow we did find it and the guy there spoke enough English so it worked out fine and he was really good at saying sign here and there. I have no idea what I signed, I guess I’ll find out when we return the car. <br />
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We hit the roads with our GPS loaded with the Italian maps and off we went. Within the first mile we made a wrong turn and toured through the airport again but then we turned on the volume and she directed us the correct way. We were on some real country roads on our way to Courmayeur. We kept thinking we were lost. For the first 45 minutes we were driving in and out of little Italian villages on cobble stone streets with barely enough room for one car. Soon we made it to the big highway having to stop at the toll booth. And of course I went in the wrong line asking for the telepass, which we didn't have. I had to drive in reverse a ways to get out of this line, luckily no one was coming through. The autobahn was great for travel and we found out way to Courmayeur in just over 2 hours from Milan.<br />
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After running into more narrow cobblestone streets in Courmayeur which dead ended, we found the Edelweiss Hotel. This is a great smaller family owned place in the heart of Courmayeur. We unpacked and set off to find some lunch as it was getting late in the day. Mid day is tough to find businesses open in Italy as many of them close down for a few hours and reopen later in the day. We found one place and just wanted to get a slice of pizza and something to drink. More reality as we had no idea what the guy at the restaurant, who I am assuming was the owner, was saying and he couldn’t understand us either. But we understood one work, closed but then somehow he said pizza was ok and he quickly directed us to a table. But we wanted to sit outside, he said no in his Italian way so we sat. Looking at the menu we ordered a pizza to split as we didn’t want to eat too much and fill up as it was already 3 PM and we wanted to have a nice dinner later. The owner said very sternly in his Italian way, no split pizza, one pie per person. We were stunned but also very hungry and agreed. We sort of chuckled to ourselves, not really knowing what we were doing. Soon the guy came out with two huge pizza pies, one for each. When he came out he showed us his large belly and said with Italian words and hand language, eat and look like me. We both ate the entire pies and the owner was very happy. We were also afraid if we didn't eat them, he might scold us . <br />
We had to walk for a while to work off that pizza and went back to the room for nap as we were both exhausted. I tried to sleep but also wanted to get a run in so I tucked Kristin in and off I went. I searched out the trail I ran on two years ago when I ran the UTMB which I believe is the finish to the Tor Des Geants. After a while and a few missed turns I found it. I didn't want to totally exhaust myself prior to the race but also wanted to get used to the elevation so I climbed for about 30 minutes on the trail up to Betrone and then turned back. I came back to the room to find Kristin still asleep but she soon woke up and we hit the town to check out the shops. We found some Grappa and wine to bring back to the room and enjoyed a bit of the Grappa right off. By 9 PM we were hungry again and found a wonderful little cafe in an alley way which served great crepes. And then it was hazelnut ice cream topped with Bailey’s for dessert. And to end the meal the waiter brought out some limoncello. When we got back to the room it wasn't long before we passed out as we were still very sleep deprived.<br />
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The next morning we finally awoke around 9 am only because we were hungry and breakfast was over at 10:00 am. The breakfasts here are great with bread, cheese, salami for those who enjoy meat, pastries, extra strong coffee and tarts. With full bellies, we next planned out our day. I thought it would be smart to get in some altitude acclimation but running that high wasn't really an option without destroying our legs prior to the race so we took a gondola from La Paud which would bring us to just over 11,000 feet at the Rifugio Torino. I really had no idea what to expect but when we reached the summit we stepped out to discover the glacier of the Geants right at the foot of Mont Blanc. The views were unbelievable as we hiked across the glacier. Kristin was totally new to this kind of mountain experience and was like a little kid who just saw Santa Clause for the first time. She had a huge smile on her face that just wouldn't go away. We hung out for about 1 ½ hours hiking around and thoroughly enjoying the scenery. We were a bit winded when we first got there but really it was not too bad. After a great day in the mountains, we settled in for some fine Italian wine, fresh cheese and grapes on our balcony overlooking the mountains before dinner. And then it was back out for some fine Italian dining. This night it was fresh lasagna with some more awesome local wine. <br />
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Friday morning was another late sleep and then more good breakfast. After that it was down to business. We had to prepare for the race. We sorted out what we would need for drop bags and what to wear for the start of the race. The weather forecast was calling for thunderstorms at the start so we need to be smart and stay dry. 2:00 PM was packet pickup which also included our one drop bag which would be transported to numerous life stations along the way. We went to the sport pavilion where packet pick up would be but had some lunch first. Well again we were lost in the language barrier. We found a restaurant and all I wanted was a light lunch as we had a past dinner coming up. Not happening. We sat down and we were handed a limited menu and told in Italian that this was it. I was totally lost in the translation and Kristin was using her limited knowledge of the language to get us through. Somehow the meal included what looked like a 9 course meal. I tried to use my own sign language along with English interpretation but the waiter just looked at me without a clue as to what I was trying to say so we ordered whatever it was. It turned out to be two full meals. Confused again, we thought it was a buffet as others had gone up to serve themselves. So we went up to get our meals. Then another waiter came out and scolded us. We tried to explain that we just ordered and he said in some Italian to go sit, they will bring it to us. So we sat. Then out came the feast. We both had a full tortellini dish with fresh bread and then when I was done I had a full plate of polenta with sausage. I had no idea I ordered sausage but was able to pick it off as I don’t eat meat. Kristin for her second meal had a full omelette and French fries. Stuffed from eating too much again, we figure this was all good for carbo loading for the race as we will be weighing a good 10 pounds heavier at race start with all this eating. After lunch we waddled over to get our race packets and our drop bags to fill which we will bring back prior to our pasta dinner tonight. Yes, more food to prepare for the 10 AM start on Saturday morning.<br />
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Time to hit the pasta dinner. If you want to track I think you can find us on the <a href="http://www.tordesgeants.it/en/content/home-page" target="_blank">Tor Des Geants</a> site. Kristin is # 626 and I am # 610. And if you want to see some awesome photos, check out our Facebook page with pics <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151649463378316&set=a.10151649472133316&type=1&theater" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
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<span style="color: #741b47; font-size: x-large;">Ciao !</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-5237773814047848632013-08-07T11:54:00.001-04:002013-08-07T21:37:55.430-04:0030,000 Miles and Still Going<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ck1jNB2IDEM/UgJkIuOmUPI/AAAAAAAAGDE/qSPC1bbxiQY/s1600/Italy+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ck1jNB2IDEM/UgJkIuOmUPI/AAAAAAAAGDE/qSPC1bbxiQY/s400/Italy+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">The Italian Alps</span></i></b></td></tr>
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<b><i>30,000 Consecutive Miles in just over 7 years without a day off</i></b>. That's where my Running Ahead log had me a few weeks ago. I'm not really a data junkie and don't even own a GPS watch but the log automatically adds up my miles and consecutive days of running. When I saw 30,000 miles it explained part of why I haven't had time lately to keep up with my Blog. My focus this spring and summer has been to just build miles and get time out on the trail to prep for the Tor Des Geants in September. I've been trying to learn how to pace myself for the long haul in the Alps. So here's a brief update of what I've been doing since my last blog. <br />
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<b><u>April:</u></b><br />
<b>Don't Run Boston 50 Mile</b>, Blue Hills Reservation, Mass.<br />
Had a fun run but got severely lost as this was a Fat Ass race with no course markings. I turned it into an all day run with my only goal of getting out before dark. I ran in circles for 11 1/2 hours and must have run 60+ miles. It was a good training run.<br />
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<b>Boston Marathon</b> (pacing): The day after DRB, I was on course at the Boston Marathon to support Kristin and Jen who were running it this year. I met them at mile 13 and decided to run with them for as long as I could. I was having so much fun that I decided to go the distance with them, almost....until we were stopped with 1/2 mile to go. Luckily we had gone a bit slower than planned as their finish time was predicted to be 4:09, just when all the activity started. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UI19-llQnK8/UgJkcpTi_bI/AAAAAAAAGDM/R_GP477kBRk/s1600/sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UI19-llQnK8/UgJkcpTi_bI/AAAAAAAAGDM/R_GP477kBRk/s320/sign.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><u>May:</u></b><br />
<b>North Face 50 Mile at Bear Mtn</b>. A good technical 50 mile run in NY state. I went down with an open mind and no real plan. Met up with Matt Wilson and Josh Finger and ran most of it with Matt. I fell apart around mile 40 and slogged in to the finish.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eufR7_2gsP8/UgJkqTNMsvI/AAAAAAAAGDU/xUY5XEtXatA/s1600/3124NB_06058t.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eufR7_2gsP8/UgJkqTNMsvI/AAAAAAAAGDU/xUY5XEtXatA/s320/3124NB_06058t.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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<b>Vail Colorado</b>: This was a last minute trip to Vail. Was there for the Pearl Izumi national sales meeting. Found some awesome trails at around 10,000 feet.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FRuZWOaln-M/UgJqQoM_g6I/AAAAAAAAGEY/w3Y7azOKCUY/s1600/Aspen+trees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FRuZWOaln-M/UgJqQoM_g6I/AAAAAAAAGEY/w3Y7azOKCUY/s400/Aspen+trees.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Vermont City Marathon:</b> Again this year I was in charge of the Pace Groups and again ran the race at the last minute once I knew all the pace leaders were in place in their start corrals. And it was wet and cold. I wore a garbage bag for the first 7 miles. Tired legs were screaming at me by mile 10 but I somehow managed to pull off a 2:56 time. Still happy to be able to keep it under 3 hours :)<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NitUH5OQD4M/UgJkx0EkPwI/AAAAAAAAGDc/b79XdDwn6PU/s1600/KVCMarathon2013JackPress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NitUH5OQD4M/UgJkx0EkPwI/AAAAAAAAGDc/b79XdDwn6PU/s320/KVCMarathon2013JackPress.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<u><b>June:</b></u><br />
<b>Tarc 100 Mile, Weston, Mass</b>. I needed another 100 mile training run and found this race at the last minute and this was an easy drive to get there. Kristin and John would be running the 50 mile as they had the VT 100 in a month. Course was incredibly wet with lots of deep water and mud. 7:00 pm Friday night start was fun too. Just after the darkness set in, around mile 12 I tried to avoid a rather large mud pit and tried to run alongside in the giant ferns. Not a good idea, the fun ended. Behind one of those giant ferns was a solid object like a stump. Hitting that solid object with my upper right thigh brought out stars and loss of breath. After walking in a stupor for a moment I continued on trying to ignore the pain. By mile 35 I could see my leg was swollen. At mile 50 I went to the medical tent. The person I chatted with didn't think it was broken so I had him wrap it up with a large compression bandage and out I went. By mile 70 I could barely walk and had to drop. Thought I broke my femur as it swelled up over the next few days which made running a challenge but after a week I was running normal again.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h1IvGXKuWSc/UgJk7YtRSEI/AAAAAAAAGDk/Zg71Qk8-BRw/s1600/leg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h1IvGXKuWSc/UgJk7YtRSEI/AAAAAAAAGDk/Zg71Qk8-BRw/s320/leg.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Bruised Leg</span></i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R9FyTHq19KY/UgJlxWLVq2I/AAAAAAAAGDw/H-Kcnu3lSmI/s1600/Krsitin+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R9FyTHq19KY/UgJlxWLVq2I/AAAAAAAAGDw/H-Kcnu3lSmI/s320/Krsitin+10.jpg" width="307" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: small;">Kristin at the finish</span></b></i></td></tr>
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<u><b>July & August:</b></u><br />
No major races. Weekly 5k trail races at Catamount Family Outdoor Center and the same at Trapp Family Lodge and some mountain bike races too. And lots of mountain miles, mostly up around Mt. Mansfield and Came's Hump. Hit Mt. Lafayette in NH too. I'm trying to slow down my pace and learn how to run up mountains with sticks and keep a good solid pace throughout. And an occasional jump from 13,000 feet.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1V0fE2_Hfcg/UgJmo89wwiI/AAAAAAAAGEA/hu8iC7jyuSE/s1600/Team+Pearl+on+the+Chin+of+Mansfield.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1V0fE2_Hfcg/UgJmo89wwiI/AAAAAAAAGEA/hu8iC7jyuSE/s400/Team+Pearl+on+the+Chin+of+Mansfield.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">The Mansfield Loop</span></i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x1km4mys2uE/UgJs6-q9omI/AAAAAAAAGEo/Sk2zO_iiqRc/s1600/Lafayette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x1km4mys2uE/UgJs6-q9omI/AAAAAAAAGEo/Sk2zO_iiqRc/s400/Lafayette.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Mount Lafayette, NH</span></i></b></td></tr>
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<u><b>September:</b></u><br />
<div>
<b>The Tor Des Geants:</b> :) 208 miles, 79,000 feet of climbing and 79,000 feet of descending. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QXrmSt_gb0k/UgJmy8XKSpI/AAAAAAAAGEI/QGXwvLgue2Q/s1600/valle_daosta-monte_bianco_e_lago_checrouit_foto_enrico_romanzi_9378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QXrmSt_gb0k/UgJmy8XKSpI/AAAAAAAAGEI/QGXwvLgue2Q/s400/valle_daosta-monte_bianco_e_lago_checrouit_foto_enrico_romanzi_9378.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Tor Des Geants</i></b></span></td></tr>
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That's the update. Between running, trying to build a house, preparing for this race and some other very important personal matters, life has been very busy but good. Oh yes, I have to work too.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E9rSbek5m3c/UgJiMKylJKI/AAAAAAAAGCo/ydsbpj6rnqI/s1600/running+quote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E9rSbek5m3c/UgJiMKylJKI/AAAAAAAAGCo/ydsbpj6rnqI/s1600/running+quote.jpg" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-26503471311385594312013-04-02T23:33:00.001-04:002013-04-02T23:50:49.181-04:00Tor Des Geants 2013- Here we come!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JGnOBBSlrEo/UTamHhTHmqI/AAAAAAAAGAo/5An1FERmhDw/s1600/5891278860_7a4b2f396e_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JGnOBBSlrEo/UTamHhTHmqI/AAAAAAAAGAo/5An1FERmhDw/s640/5891278860_7a4b2f396e_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Tor Des Geants course</span></i></b><br />
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<b style="font-size: 12.499999046325684px;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">TIME TO MAKE A PLAN</span></i></b><br />
<b style="font-size: 12.499999046325684px;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></i></b>
Finally I made it through a lottery and have the start of a plan for running in 2013. Yes I've already run 2 races this year but those were more like early season play days in the warm temps of Texas. Now it's time to think about training for a real challenge. The Tor Des Geants which occurs in September runs through the Italian Alps for 330K (approx. 208 miles) and has about 79,000 feet of climbing. One of the biggest challenges can be the weather. It's not uncommon to find snow in the higher elevations and mudslides in the lower elevations and many other challenges along the way. I know that all too well from running the Ultra Trail Du Mont-Blanc in 2011. But this year, Kristin and I will be attempting to finish this challenge, which they give you 150 hours to complete, sleeping is optional. And no, this is not a stage race but it starts when it starts and finishes when you cross the finish line. Click <a href="http://www.tordesgeants.it/en/content/home-page" target="_blank">here</a> for more info on the <a href="http://www.tordesgeants.it/en/content/home-page" target="_blank">Tor Des Geants</a>.<br />
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<b>TRAINING</b>:<br />
For the last 2 months since the Rocky Raccoon 100, I've taken it quite easy, running without a plan and just for fun. Now I need to focus on building up those miles again and with mountain runs every week. Luckily we have some hill to train on, the Green Mountains of Vermont. Not quite the Alps but certainly they provide some good steep ups and downs. The bi-weekly runs up Camel's Hump have been great with nicely snow packed trails, perfect for the microspikes! And of course the long, slow training runs on the back dirt roads until the trails clear out of snow and mud. I've slipped in a couple of fast road races like the New Bedford Half Marathon, always an early season test of one's fitness and the GMAA 10k Sap Run. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y9aN81nEeok/UTatc-9uTxI/AAAAAAAAGA4/WnGb5hnkNA8/s1600/maddog_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y9aN81nEeok/UTatc-9uTxI/AAAAAAAAGA4/WnGb5hnkNA8/s320/maddog_1.jpg" width="210" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Gabby looked like this</span></i></b></td></tr>
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I thought after spending a lot of time with Kristin's dogs I would be much better with other dogs when they chase me. And for the most that's been the case. But not always. Recently on a long run with Kristin, we encountered an unleashed Bernese Mountain Dog, "Gabby". She probably weighs as much as me, maybe more. On the surface she looks like a big puff ball but she has an attitude some days and on this particular day, she was downright aggressive. We first came upon her at an intersection but headed in the opposite direction. Still she wanted a piece of us. She got close enough to Kristin's right cheek as she could feel her breath upon her as the owner called out to no avail. Soon we were out of reach but I knew we would most likely catch up to her after we turned around and started our tempo run. We ran about a half mile out and then turned to do the workout. We had 2 miles to go and Gabby lived about a half mile away. Gabby came out to greet us in full force. I thought I would try to chat with Gabby. Meanwhile Kristin high tailed it in the opposite direction. Gabby was ready to eat me with teeth showing and an attitude. I backtracked only to trip on my own feet and landed on my butt fearing that Gabby would pounce on me while down. Luckily she didn't. After much talk, Gabby finally went home and we proceeded with the rest of the tempo run.<br />
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<b>Upcoming Races and the Plan</b>: Still in the works but I know I have to get in numerous 50 and 100 mile races to prep for Tor Des Geants. I will be running the <i><b>Don't Run Boston 50 mile</b></i> in mid April and the <b><i>North Face 50 mile</i></b> at Bear in May. There are a number of options for 100's later in June and July but I haven't decided yet where to go. The Key Bank Vermont City Marathon in late May will also be on the schedule but not sure if I will race it or pace it and won't know until the start of the race.<br />
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<b>Other Notable Races and Causes</b>: <br />
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<b>The Boston Marathon and the Dick Beardsley Foundation</b>. <span style="font-family: inherit;">Please help Kristin raise funds for the <a href="http://dickbeardsleyfoundation.org/" target="_blank">Dick Beardsley Foundation</a>! <span style="color: #444444; line-height: 15.989583015441895px;">Help raise awareness, we can break through chemical dependency. </span><span style="color: #444444; line-height: 15.989583015441895px;">Kristin</span> is running Boston this year and is raising funds for this great cause. You can donate through <a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/kristinlundy/2013-boston-marathon" target="_blank">First Giving</a>. </span><br />
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<b><a href="http://fotwheel.org/" target="_blank">Fellowship of the Wheel</a></b>: The Fellowship has an awesome trail network throughout Chittenden County for bikers and runners. Your donation helps build and preserve some of our great trails. <br />
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If you want to see a fun new source for New England trail running look at <a href="http://www.farnorthendurance.com/" target="_blank">Far North Endurance</a>.<br />
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That's it for now. More training and races to come :)<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">The winners in life think constantly in terms of</span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">I can, I will, and I am.</span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Losers, on the other hand,</span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">concentrate their waking thoughts on</span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">what they should have or would have done, or what they can't do.</span></i></b></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-8370005248089896282013-02-14T14:46:00.001-05:002013-02-14T14:46:26.195-05:00ROCKY RACCOON 100 MILE RACE REPORT 2013<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YSPvtnoUNZU/URxtlMkMGCI/AAAAAAAAF7Y/S6FtwjZsv4g/s1600/RR+100+sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YSPvtnoUNZU/URxtlMkMGCI/AAAAAAAAF7Y/S6FtwjZsv4g/s400/RR+100+sign.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Huntsville, Texas<br />
February 2, 2013<br />
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Who would have thought that I would have been back in Texas for a second time this year? It used to be that I would go out West to ski in the winter. Now I’m traveling to the warmer climates to go run. Just three weeks ago I was in Bandera running 100K in the Texas Hill Country. Now I was returning to Huntsville, located about an hour north of Houston to run the Rocky Raccoon 100 Mile Endurance Trail Run. It seemed so long ago when I signed up for this with any knowledge of what I was getting into. Back in May a number of us from the Thursday night running group in Vermont decided a road trip was in order so we signed up for Rocky. Later I found out this was a loop course, not one or two but five loops around a park on mostly flat terrain which attracts many of the speed runners. Not my favorite as I prefer mountains and steeps. Flat terrain is a huge mental challenge for me. I need variety and change. In 2010 I ran the Burning River 100 Mile in Ohio which had a lot of Tow Path running. That drove me crazy with flat, straight stretches for long periods that after a while I would run backwards and sideways and skip along to keep motivated. And it finally broke me a number of times where I had to walk on totally flat terrain. So the thought of Rocky scared me but I looked at it as a fun time away to run with friends. We had the crew of Bob Ayers Jr, Kristin Lundy, Jen Sorrell, John Lacroix, Serena Wilcox, Shari Bashaw and myself running the hundred and Sherry Ricker running the 50 mile.<br />
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The flight down was uneventful which was great based on my flying nightmares of 2012. I flew down solo on United while a larger group flew together on Jet Blue. Leaving Vermont it was 50 degrees and rain after a week of subzero temps. Arriving in Texas it was 70’s and dry. Another fear of mine was the heat. Three weeks earlier at Bandera the heat hurt me and I cramped bad on the second half of the course as happens all too frequent. Even the bikram yoga training twice a week in 105 degrees didn't acclimate me enough. I was hoping that my body was better prepared this time. And my training leading up to Rocky seemed sufficient but the race frame of mind just wasn't there. But I was on vacation with friends so it was all a good thing no matter how the race turned out. We all arrived in Huntsville later in the day. After we all checked in, Kristin and I got in an easy 3 miler pre-dinner to stretch out the legs a bit. Then we all met for dinner at Margarita’s Mexican Restaurant. If you ever go there, order the large frozen margarita! Just make sure you have someone to drive you home.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iTB5ZopqftM/URx08-cvOHI/AAAAAAAAF9Y/Lf9c8qILkPw/s1600/RR+100+Crew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iTB5ZopqftM/URx08-cvOHI/AAAAAAAAF9Y/Lf9c8qILkPw/s320/RR+100+Crew.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>The VT Crew (</b>missing is Sherry Ricker<b>)</b></i></span></td></tr>
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Friday we decided to all play tourists for the morning and went to visit with local hero Sam Houston, a huge 77 foot statue. I felt inclined to do some climbing to get a better view.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mWc0wJhPNlg/URx1D4mF_jI/AAAAAAAAF9g/m8PHauCinrM/s1600/Hanging+with+Sam+Houston.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mWc0wJhPNlg/URx1D4mF_jI/AAAAAAAAF9g/m8PHauCinrM/s320/Hanging+with+Sam+Houston.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Jack with Sam</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Nwy7GNXDws/UR0antpKFwI/AAAAAAAAF-Q/Q07lmacVUQE/s1600/Sam+Houston.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/-6Nwy7GNXDws/UR0antpKFwI/AAAAAAAAF-Q/Q07lmacVUQE/s320/Sam+Houston.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Sam Houston</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Driving back to the motel we drove by the Texas Prison Museum but passed on that visit. We headed into town for lunch and I ate way too much pizza. Then it was back to the rooms to prepare drop bags before heading over to race central to drop off the bags. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5RCbJQCuvsY/URxwPLkElHI/AAAAAAAAF8A/It2DnBePwQE/s1600/Gators+at+Rocky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="226" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5RCbJQCuvsY/URxwPLkElHI/AAAAAAAAF8A/It2DnBePwQE/s320/Gators+at+Rocky.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>BEWARE OF LARGE CRITTERS!</i></b></span></td></tr>
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The race was being held at Huntsville State Park. Before the trail briefing we went for a short run to check out the trails. And I had a new shoe to try out. Typically for a 100 miler I wear a supportive trail shoe such as the Pearl Izumi Trail II’s but I heard many runners would be wearing a road shoe based on the non-technical terrain of the race. I just received a new pair of the latest Pearl Izumi Kissaki 2.0 road shoes. They were light and quick and comfortable but also totally neutral and not very supportive. They felt good on the short loop we did but would they be enough for 100 miles? With a roll of the dice I decided to give them a try on race day. Then it was off to the trail briefing but I still was stuffed and uncomfortable from lunch so I decided to head back out on the trails. When I got back the trail briefing was over but there still was time to chat with the research project folks who would be doing research during the race based on perceived effort and performance. I’m always up for experiments so I signed up to participate. Afterwards dinner was light, still working off the lunch menu and then to bed sort of early as we had to be up around 4:00 AM.<br />
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Race Day: We arrived at the Huntsville State Park around 4:30 am trying to avoid any long line up of cars getting into the park. We dropped off the last of the drop bags for the start/finish area and rested up until the 6:00 am start. It was still dark so headlamps would be necessary for the first hour or so and then again for later on in the race after sunset so some planning was necessary to time having the headlamps when needed. I figured on dropping my starting headlamp off at the Damnation Aid Station which was at mile 6 and then 12, or later in the race at mile 66 and 72 but also had one at the start/finish which would be mile 80. Not having run this race before I didn't want to get caught in the dark, been there before like 3 weeks ago at Bandera. The temps were in the 50’s and were supposed to be in the 70’s later so all I had on was a singlet for the top layer, anticipating that it would be off fairly soon as the temps rose. We all made to the start line on time and were ready to go. <br />
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<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/-U-EQu4ZIjZk/URxwt2aNcwI/AAAAAAAAF8I/wOrzN_XeamA/s1600/RR+100+start-2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U-EQu4ZIjZk/URxwt2aNcwI/AAAAAAAAF8I/wOrzN_XeamA/s640/RR+100+start-2013.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Jen, Jack, Bob, Serena, John, Shari, Kristin</i></b></span></td></tr>
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On the front line were Mike Morton, Josh Finger and some other local Texans. I grabbed Bob Ayers to run with me just behind the front line. And we were off. Right from the get go, Josh took off along with another runner and Mike Morton just behind. Bob and I were running along in the next pack behind a couple of other runners. We seemed to be running at a comfortable pace, getting the body and lungs to warm up. The terrain was mostly flat but there were some annoying roots, especially in the dark that seemed to jump up now and then. The front pack seemed to be long gone which was fine with me as we had 100 miles to go and I didn't see a need to be sprinting out at this point. My strong point is usually the endurance at the end and after mile 80 when the temps cool off I tend to pick it up a bit. It wasn't long before the runner in front of us tripped and went down and again. By the third time or so, he was down and out for a bit and Bob and I took the lead for the second pack. I took my share of falls as well. Not long into the run, I went down hard and bashed my knee into a root. It hurt and I could smell a cut along with a bruise but refused to look down at it. What I don’t see can’t hurt as much, right? After a while the pain went away but down I went again, tuck and roll and back up. And about the midway point I went down again this time hitting my face on the dirt. Bob gave me grief for my skillful footing. At the Damnation aid station I dropped off my headlamp to have for later on if needed. Bob and I enjoyed the rest of the first 20 mile loop mostly to ourselves, occasionally grabbing some food at an aid station. At the 20 mile mark or end of the first loop we did some quick refueling and any necessary changes and off we went again, out onto loop 2. Our running time was about 2:39. On loop 2 it wasn't long before Bob went down. He did a nice downhill sliding crash embedding some Texas soil into his forearm. I seemed to be running fine now with full daylight to see the ground below. And then Bob went down again. Now it was time for me to give Bob grief and then he hit again for a third time. We were now 3 for 3, tied for crashes but I wouldn't let that stop me as on the rest of lap 2, I fell 3 more times, luckily nothing serious. About half way through lap 2 it was starting to heat up as the sun was up and the temps were rising. You just knew mid day was not going to be fun. But Bob and I were having a great time running along, chatting about everything and lap 2 was turning out to be faster than lap 1.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ERcqTcrR0KA/URxxCMRLcAI/AAAAAAAAF8Q/DmF6vFhZ9Sw/s1600/Bob+and+Jack+at+Rocky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="430" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ERcqTcrR0KA/URxxCMRLcAI/AAAAAAAAF8Q/DmF6vFhZ9Sw/s640/Bob+and+Jack+at+Rocky.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Bob and Jack in total sync cruising along the RR 100 trails.</i></b></span></td></tr>
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It’s amazing what how much faster you can run in daylight. Then out on the 6 mile Damnation Loop I looked back and Bob was gone. I figured he must have had a quick trip to the woods and he’d be back shortly as I slowed it down a bit to wait but no Bob. I continued on at my own pace. As I came upon the last aid station for lap 2, I saw Josh standing there ready to run and off we went. Apparently he wasn't feeling great anymore and had slowed down. We ran for only a short time before he slowed up even more and I was on my own again. So I kept moving, feeling good and made it back to the start/finish, end of lap 2, refueling and out in a time of about 2:47. The average pace for my first 40 miles was just under 8 minutes/mile. I was informed that I was in third place at this point but there was still 60 miles to go and anything can happen. As I made it out on loop 3 you can see who’s behind and a few minutes out there was Bob. I guess Bob had a case of the pukes but was back and running again. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bGkk8YoS4mg/UR08_qo0PzI/AAAAAAAAF_4/pCRBXgmf0Xs/s1600/Rocky+trails+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bGkk8YoS4mg/UR08_qo0PzI/AAAAAAAAF_4/pCRBXgmf0Xs/s320/Rocky+trails+3.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Lap 3 was really starting to heat up and I knew this was my weakness. Three weeks ago at Bandera I cramped so bad mid race that I had to walk a good part of the last lap to survive. So far on this day, I was well hydrated and keeping down my electrolytes so no cramping yet. The big test would be getting by mile 50 where it seems I tend to get the pukes as has been the case in the past 3-4 races. I was trying to eat but the heat was making it difficult. I was ingesting GU’s ok for a while but was getting tired of those too. My drink had extra calories so I wasn't eating much solid food but knew I had to make an effort to eat or it would catch up to me later on. So I tried to nibble at the aid stations on mostly pretzels and some kind of trail mix. I made it through mile 50 without the pukes but was feeling somewhat nauseous, probably from the heat but I didn't puke which was big :) The rest of lap 3 was slow but steady pouring water on my head whenever I could to cool the core. I finally finished lap 3, refueled and out I went in a time of 3:34 which I was totally fine with. I knew I had to back off mid day. Lap 4 was downright hot, I was nauseous but holding it together and trying to drink and eat. Still no cramping which was huge. I had pre-mixed a number of my drink bottles with electrolyte pills so I wouldn't have to attempt to swallow them which usually results in the gag reflex and puking. So far so good. Then somewhere along the Damnation 6 mile loop I starting to feel some odd pains in my left knee. What the heck? When I would back off it was fine but when I ran it was starting to be like a knife jabbing the outside of my knee. Bad memories suddenly came to mind. The IT band! I had issues with the IT many years ago and never ran because I thought I had bad knees. But then I discovered a PT that had me strengthening instead of just stretching and that fixed the old IT. And back in 2010 I had a mild re-occurrence of the IT band but that was a result of tweaking an ankle from skydiving and changing my gait to accommodate it. So why an issue now at mile 70? I knew why. My decision to wear a flexible neutral shoe when I hadn't allowed the body enough time to adapt to that kind of running caught up to me. I’m often a running experiment and guinea pig but I should know better than to experiment during a 100 mile race. The rest of lap 4 was painful doing the run/walk. Somewhere near the second half of lap 4 Bob came cruising by. We chatted a bit and off he went looking strong. Go Bob!! <br />
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I stopped at the last aid station and had a cheese quesadillas trying to get some food in me and continued on. Soon after that, pain hurt my belly too and by mile 78 I had a case of the pukes. But it really wasn't all that bad as I was able to drink and eat afterwards. But the wheels had fallen off. I was wishing it was a 100K at that point but finished up lap 4, refueled, grabbed my night gear and was out in a time of 4:17. Lap 5 was not going to be fun but I was determined to keep going. I had plenty of time to finish and the temps were cooling down. I had no choice but to resort to the walk/run. I would run until the knee pain got so bad, then back it down to a fast walk/power hike. I continued like this for hours. The night air was cooling and as long as you were moving it was fine but if you stopped at all at the aid stations, you would quickly lose the heat. With my walk/run mode I knew I was in for a long night and decided to enjoy some of the night time food. The selection of soup was great and mashed potatoes too. I was counting down the aid stations and kept moving forward, slowly. I made it through the first Damnation Aid station and was not looking forward to the 6 mile loop. There were some gradual hills involved and I knew that would cause additional knee pain so I just took it slow. At the top of the first hill I thought I heard a crowd of people cheering and it was getting louder. But there weren't any people around. Just coyotes howling up a storm in a large pack. I was hoping they were similar to the Vermont coyotes and harmless to people. It seemed like forever but I finally came out of the Damnation Loop, now at mile 92. I stopped to quickly grab some food and there were Kristin and Jen. They were on lap 4 or mile 72 at that point. Jen was sitting on the log ready to eat some food when she went into puke mode. Apparently this lap had taken her down with the pukes. She wasn't looking so good but she’s strong and not a quitter. She had her pacer now too for help. With a bit more hurling Kristin had enough and took off before she started to puke, dragging me behind. This was good as I needed someone to pull me along at this point and on we went. Kristin was running a good solid pace, not too fast or slow. Me, I would surge ahead until the knee hurt too much then power hike until she caught up and got too far ahead and then surge again. This went on for a long time. We arrived at the last aid station and enjoyed pancakes rolled up with blueberries for a late night snack and some other treats and off we went again. Somewhere along the way we spotted an armadillo! Finally I got to see one of those critters. When we got to within a mile or so to the finish Kristin heard there was another 100 mile runner who just passed us on their last lap. She was not to have them finish ahead of me so off she went with me in pain and in tow trying to keep up. We were successful in staying ahead and I finally crossed the finish line with the last lap crawling with a time of 5:15 and with a final finishing time of 18:33. I was glad to be done!! Kristin’s pacer John was waiting patiently for her and off they went out into the darkness for her final lap.<br />
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<table align="center" 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/-t_T7G72_li0/URx0LIEGeXI/AAAAAAAAF9I/3OErFyCzIBQ/s1600/Kristin+and+pacer+John.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t_T7G72_li0/URx0LIEGeXI/AAAAAAAAF9I/3OErFyCzIBQ/s320/Kristin+and+pacer+John.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Kristin with pacer John</i></b></span></td></tr>
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In the end, Bob had a great final lap and placed 5th overall!! He won the overall top 5 alligator award. He was running scared thinking I was coming, glad I could motivate him :) Serena ended up 5th overall for the women after some questionable training tactics in Vermont and won the top 5 alligator award. John finished the 100 miler setting a new PR for himself. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rUOSfvzeJCw/URxztk-w-hI/AAAAAAAAF9A/6z4yReehjSE/s1600/John+and+Terry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rUOSfvzeJCw/URxztk-w-hI/AAAAAAAAF9A/6z4yReehjSE/s320/John+and+Terry.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Pacer Terry with John at the finish line.</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Somehow Jen came back to life and caught up to Kristin as her wheels were falling off and the two motivated each other to a strong finish, crossing the finish line together. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vVh2fFWcV5A/UR0hl3GsDSI/AAAAAAAAF-4/rXbuIIbGnKE/s1600/Kristin+and+Jen+at+Rocky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vVh2fFWcV5A/UR0hl3GsDSI/AAAAAAAAF-4/rXbuIIbGnKE/s320/Kristin+and+Jen+at+Rocky.jpg" width="315" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Kristin and Jen at the Finish Line</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Kristin set a new 100 mile PR for herself and for Jen it was her second fastest 100 miler.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JnOjgsunGqw/URx0nP899yI/AAAAAAAAF9Q/7LTb_TcamfE/s1600/Jen+with+pacer+at+finish+tent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JnOjgsunGqw/URx0nP899yI/AAAAAAAAF9Q/7LTb_TcamfE/s320/Jen+with+pacer+at+finish+tent.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Jen with pacer relaxing at the finish tent.</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Shari finished as top master woman bringing home the alligator award after some time off from 100 milers. And Sherry finished her first ever 50 mile trail race. As for me, I ended up as the top men’s master winning the alligator award. So our Vermont contingency had a 100% finish rate for the 100 miler yet only 67% of the overall field of 100 milers even finished the 100 miles. Go VT!!<br />
Full Results can be found <a href="http://www.tejastrails.com/docs/Rocky_res_2013.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ymm9jTsLb9c/UR0h4CErolI/AAAAAAAAF_A/lXIKk0489U4/s1600/Gator+Award.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="235" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ymm9jTsLb9c/UR0h4CErolI/AAAAAAAAF_A/lXIKk0489U4/s320/Gator+Award.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>The Gator Award</i></b></span></td></tr>
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The Gear: The Pearl Izumi Kissaki 2.0, even though it caught up to me at mile 70 is really an amazing shoe. My foot was in total comfort. But next time I think I'll train on it before taking it for such a long trail run. Also the Drymax socks again, no blisters at all. Headsweats ultra race cap kept the sun off my head and the sweat out of my eyes. I used the GU Brew Roctane for extra calories and electrolytes along with GU gels throughout.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PC4-I0klvpU/UR0igckD2HI/AAAAAAAAF_I/OD31bmF-BOk/s1600/Kristin+with+the+Buckle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PC4-I0klvpU/UR0igckD2HI/AAAAAAAAF_I/OD31bmF-BOk/s320/Kristin+with+the+Buckle.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Kristin with the 100 Mile Buckle</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Thanks to Joe and Joyce Prusaitis and Tejas Trails for putting on a fabulous event and to all the volunteers who spent countless hours helping out. And thanks Liza for helping at Dogwoods each time I came through. We'll be back!<br />
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<b><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Don't measure a man's success by how high he climbs </span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">but how high he bounces when he hits bottom. </span></i></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-55248660230527231822013-01-22T12:36:00.001-05:002013-01-22T12:36:47.561-05:00BANDERA 100K 2013 RACE REPORT<span style="font-size: large;"><b>And the </b></span><b style="font-size: x-large;">2013 USA 100K TRAIL CHAMPIONSHIPS</b><br />
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<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/-cN-nCu2D64g/UP4Yx9oiReI/AAAAAAAAFys/NYeP8k5vqmo/s1600/Sunrise+at+Bandera.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cN-nCu2D64g/UP4Yx9oiReI/AAAAAAAAFys/NYeP8k5vqmo/s640/Sunrise+at+Bandera.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Sunrise in Bandera, Texas</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Bandera, Texas January 12, 2013<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FrRIHSYMBXM/UP4ZZylN2kI/AAAAAAAAFzQ/uTKFy5MD4sk/s1600/Cabin+52+Flying+L+Ranch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FrRIHSYMBXM/UP4ZZylN2kI/AAAAAAAAFzQ/uTKFy5MD4sk/s320/Cabin+52+Flying+L+Ranch.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Fort Apache at The Flying L Ranch</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Getting to San Antonio was extremely easy this year. Last year seemed to be the year of nightmare flights with cancellations, delays, running through airports and lost baggage but for some strange reason, all went well. Must be good karma somewhere :) Arriving in Texas was a nice relief from the last few weeks of full on winter in Vermont. Sun, warms temps and no snow was found upon arrival in San Antonio. After about an hour drive to the thriving town of Bandera, population 957 according to the sign and the "Cowboy Capital of the World", we checked into the Flying L Ranch.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P-5Iod23LVE/UP4X9dbftLI/AAAAAAAAFyg/8WTseDqVGXc/s1600/killer+armadillos.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/-P-5Iod23LVE/UP4X9dbftLI/AAAAAAAAFyg/8WTseDqVGXc/s320/killer+armadillos.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Killer Armadillos???</i></b></span></td></tr>
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It was time to put on the shorts and get in an easy end of the day run (no wind briefs required:) ) before checking out some local Mexican food for dinner. The food was excellent! <br />
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Friday morning it was time to check out the course. We had heard of torrential rains on Wednesday with nearly 4 inches of rain but the trails looked like they were in great shape and less dust than last year. We were on a hunt to find an armadillo and went by a posted sign which read “Killer Armadillos” which had already been chomped on by some big critter.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e3psaVm_fvg/UP4RI1Xn6ZI/AAAAAAAAFx8/zSaMTgoAPic/s1600/1358203714536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e3psaVm_fvg/UP4RI1Xn6ZI/AAAAAAAAFx8/zSaMTgoAPic/s1600/1358203714536.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Hiding behind a killer sotol plant.</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q5p7v1i00XM/UP7GrbDd0tI/AAAAAAAAF6w/pvqpN8vbVm4/s1600/Armadillo-crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="170" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q5p7v1i00XM/UP7GrbDd0tI/AAAAAAAAF6w/pvqpN8vbVm4/s200/Armadillo-crop.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>In search of the armadillo</i></b></span></td></tr>
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After a couple of miles up on the trail we decided to head back, still no armadillos in sight. But there were plenty of spiked thorny sotol plants. We passed by Meghan Arbogast and chatted a bit and then headed back to the Flying L for some lunch. Later in the afternoon we returned for the scheduled race briefing and packet pickup. No surprises and as usual some great swag to bring home. Afterwards we were back to downtown Bandera for some carbo loading at Johnny’s Pasta, a local favorite! Don't expect speedy service but the food is great, especially the cheesecake.<br />
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With a 7:30 AM start, there was no need to get up at 4:00 AM which was great. After a quick breakfast we were on the road to the start. Driving to the start line, there was a steady mist from the fog. It was 61 degrees and dark with 100% humidity. Haven’t seen 61 degrees since?? There was a long line of cars heading into the Texas Hill Country but the parking situation seemed fine, just slow moving, but glad we gave ourselves some extra time as I heard it became an issue for later travelers. We got our drop bags to the appropriate areas and then hung out in the tent to stay warm and dry before the start. Finally daylight was approaching and we all assembled over by the start line. The mist seemed to have stopped but still the humidity was 100%. A good day for Body Glide!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8rYnRVN-SzQ/UP4a-eRp8XI/AAAAAAAAFz0/JmlDMX8kSlM/s1600/1358203714400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8rYnRVN-SzQ/UP4a-eRp8XI/AAAAAAAAFz0/JmlDMX8kSlM/s1600/1358203714400.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>The Trail</i></b></span></td></tr>
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7:30 AM and off we went. A fast pace right from the start but I backed off a bit. I thought I would try something new and go out a little slower and just try to be more consistent. I was also trying out some different nutritional ideas. Last year I had a few cases of the pukes which took it’s toll on me. I re-evaluated what I had done last year in the eating and drinking departments and made some changes for Bandera. One would be to pass on the peanut butter and jelly and stick with calories from fruit like bananas. The other was using a drink much higher in calories with additional electrolytes which I seem to lose a lot of especially since I have a hard time swallowing electrolyte pills. I saw the lead pack head off and gladly let them go. I hung with Liza Howard for a while as we ran and chatted a bit. By the time we got to the first uphill, Liza decided to back down and I was on my own in a big gap running by myself for the most part. The first part of the course was great with some loose rock, rolling terrain and fun single track. But the humidity was so bad that I was soaked right from the start and it never let up throughout the race. Luckily there was a good cloud cover or it would have been really uncomfortable. The hill section was fun but eventually we got to some lower trails which contained this awful mud. It wasn't deep like we find quite often in New England, it was only surface mud but it was like glue and stuck to your shoes and wouldn't fall off. The more you ran, the more it accumulated. When I looked down, it looked like I had on a mud snowshoe as it was wider than your shoe. And it felt like you were running with 10 lb ankle weights. At one point I tried to roll my foot over to get it off only to have it grab my foot and twist it. There was no way that mud shoe was coming off. The only hope you had was that eventually it would build up enough that the weight would pull it off your shoe. I hooked up with Andy for a while from Canada and we ran through this section complaining about how bad it was. It was really wearing on the legs. By mile 20 or so I was starting to get twinges that resembled cramping in my calves. Way too early in the race I thought! After all, I've been heat training since March in Bikram Yoga and this can't be happening in 60 degrees. I ran conservatively trying not to set off a bout of run defying cramps.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKxhyfiLPE0/UP6vo1VQRWI/AAAAAAAAF3k/XHsYS18JSKE/s1600/Trail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKxhyfiLPE0/UP6vo1VQRWI/AAAAAAAAF3k/XHsYS18JSKE/s320/Trail.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">More Trail</span></i></b></td></tr>
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By the half way point which was lap one of the two lap course, I was right on schedule where I wanted to be. I was hoping to be a bit slower than last year on lap 1 thinking even if I run lap 2 one hour slower, I would still be ahead of last year where I cramped severely on lap two where was lying on my back in pain on the trail unable to move forward for a while. On the turnaround I remember seeing Steven Moore and he commented how it shouldn't be this hard for the first half. I totally agreed. Never had I felt this tired from running 31 miles. That mud/ankle weight running really took a toll on the energy level. I was having a hard time imagining how I might run the next 31 miles but after refueling at the aid station and heading out, I felt better. I knew I was now 50% done and what's another 31 miles? If needed I could walk or craw as I wasn't quitting, not an option. The rolling hills of the second half seemed much like the first, just slower going. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eN1xtFZ7w6g/UP61Ae_guaI/AAAAAAAAF5Y/_CXP-fmUIIo/s1600/Jack+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eN1xtFZ7w6g/UP61Ae_guaI/AAAAAAAAF5Y/_CXP-fmUIIo/s320/Jack+2013.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
And the mud sections seemed much better as the mud didn't stick and accumulate like it did the first lap. It was more packed down and dryer but by now, the energy level had been sucked out from the first lap so I was moving forward but not at any stellar pace. I continued to get cramp twinges but nothing that locked me up which was good. I couldn't swallow electrolyte pills any more but at each aid station would pour the contents into my water bottle with my own drink mix, GU Brew Roctane, which contained a fair amount of electrolytes and calories. At one point early on I did run out of my drink mix and had to resort to plain water which set me back a bit on the electrolyte level and did take a bit to catch up. I know when I'm getting low as in the first stage my ears plug up and then stage two the vision gets blurry, stage three my voice changes. Luckily I only got to stage one and after a while got that under control or so I thought. Then at about mile 49 I took a swig of fluid and it went down the wrong way which immediately set off a case of the pukes. For some strange reason, mile 49-50 is when I've been getting this. I did my thing and continued on. I felt ok and gradually resumed drinking which was a big improvement over other races where I couldn't even take on water. But I was being a bit conservative and did't drink nearly enough. At one point I even tried to swallow an electrolyte pill to help balance out the body only to spit it out as it would have set off more pukes. So I had to back off my running at times to control any signs of cramping and then pick it up when I could. As I came into the Crossroads aid station for the final visit I had my headlamp there but decided I was doing ok and didn't need it. If I continued at my current pace, I would make it in just before sunset. But the lack of drinking enough fluid eventually caught up to me a few miles later where cramps kicked in so bad that I had to stop a number of times to get it under control. At that point I was thinking maybe I was better suited to be a golfer and maybe running wasn't my thing. With the cramping I was loosing valuable time and darkness was fast approaching. I knew if I got to the final descent I would be fine as it was more open but it took forever to get there. So by the time I was there it was pretty much dark. I could feel the worn trail underfoot which is how I followed the trail. The new reflective strips they have now are great to see the trail...if you have a headlamp. With no headlamp, no reflective capabilities. Finally I was at the start of the last downhill section and could see a headlamp following me. This would be a challenge to stay ahead. I booked it downhill best I could, feeling the trail as I went. Finally I hit the last jeep road which I knew was not far from the start and was pretty much flat and non-technical so I took off to stay ahead of that following light. Finally I could see the lights from the finish and cruised in darkness over the line. DONE! About a minute later, that trailing headlamp came in and it was Liza.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DTeZhtgyMIM/UP60vNcrTII/AAAAAAAAF5Q/TK5my3fALis/s1600/Kristin+2013.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/-DTeZhtgyMIM/UP60vNcrTII/AAAAAAAAF5Q/TK5my3fALis/s320/Kristin+2013.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Kristin cruising the trails</span></i></b></td></tr>
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It was great to be finished!!! Then I had to find the rental car in a dark parking lot in the back fields to find warm and dry clothing. Not an easy task but eventually found the car and put on the down coat, hat and mittens. With a warm set of clothing I was off to the finish tent to enjoy some cold beverages with friends and wait for Kristin to arrive. And it wasn't that much longer when Kristin finished with a new PR for Bandera! Most of the runners had much slower times than in the past but Kristin cranked out her fastest time yet for Bandera.<br />
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In the end, I was slower than the previous year but in the USATF standings I was 10th overall for the men which I was happy with, first in age. But even better I won the master division for the Tejas race and brought home the prized burrow trophy! Full results can be found here: <a href="http://www.tejastrails.com/docs/Bandera_res_2013.html" target="_blank">Results</a><br />
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<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/-ciMJqlXOjSI/UP4nCJIvY2I/AAAAAAAAF0Y/XCx0DYtj7Pw/s1600/Burrow+Masters+Award.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ciMJqlXOjSI/UP4nCJIvY2I/AAAAAAAAF0Y/XCx0DYtj7Pw/s320/Burrow+Masters+Award.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>The Burrow Trophy</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<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/-uQqfUF9yZCE/UP4nNPsq9cI/AAAAAAAAF0g/iMKtj2p98f0/s1600/Steve+Moore+and+David+James.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uQqfUF9yZCE/UP4nNPsq9cI/AAAAAAAAF0g/iMKtj2p98f0/s200/Steve+Moore+and+David+James.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Steve and David trading stories </i></b></span></td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0rFtI9YzxoQ/UP64Fpp8FXI/AAAAAAAAF6A/MFOBNqwzMlU/s1600/Liza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="159" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0rFtI9YzxoQ/UP64Fpp8FXI/AAAAAAAAF6A/MFOBNqwzMlU/s200/Liza.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Liza relaxing at the finish tent</span></i></b></td></tr>
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The next day was recovery and after a short walk about in San Antonio, it was time to hydrate along the River Walk.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UX99Tz0H5zY/UP4n_B8JWRI/AAAAAAAAF04/Bl_md-eqKD0/s1600/Kristin+at+Rita's+on+the+Riverwalk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UX99Tz0H5zY/UP4n_B8JWRI/AAAAAAAAF04/Bl_md-eqKD0/s320/Kristin+at+Rita's+on+the+Riverwalk.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: small;">Kristin enjoying a Margarita on the River Walk:)</span></b></i></td></tr>
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<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/-99-4q_LjAQs/UP4pEuOhbDI/AAAAAAAAF1E/2NPlgpnTLTA/s1600/Sotol+damage-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-99-4q_LjAQs/UP4pEuOhbDI/AAAAAAAAF1E/2NPlgpnTLTA/s320/Sotol+damage-1.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Sotol Damage</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Of course there was bodily injury due to the sharp sotol plants.<br />
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All in all, a great time in Texas again. If you are ever looking for a break from the winter, consider Texas for a fun winter run. Here's a link to the <a href="http://www.tejastrails.com/" target="_blank">Tejas running series</a>. Thanks to Joe and Joyce and all the volunteers for putting on a fabulous event!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MHyCoBmtvUg/UP6tol_9liI/AAAAAAAAF28/kH7NzhHqVtc/s1600/Cacti+and+my+burrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MHyCoBmtvUg/UP6tol_9liI/AAAAAAAAF28/kH7NzhHqVtc/s320/Cacti+and+my+burrow.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>My New Bandera Cactus</i></b></span></td></tr>
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And I successfully managed to smuggle home two more cactus plants of a new variety to add to my collection. It must have been interesting when the TSA checked my bag :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yAuS1yOZ0mw/UP6wpWmgTEI/AAAAAAAAF3w/hUkZf-JgqMI/s1600/2013-01-11_11-26-53_86.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yAuS1yOZ0mw/UP6wpWmgTEI/AAAAAAAAF3w/hUkZf-JgqMI/s320/2013-01-11_11-26-53_86.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">This one's for Serena :)</span></i></b></td></tr>
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The Gear: I received a new pair of Pearl Izumi Trail II's just days before the race. No break in period required and they were awesome! Plenty of support to run 62 miles and enough cush to handle the Texas rock. Combined with a pair of Drymax trail socks, the feet were totally happy! And to add to the accessories, a Headsweats Race Cap to keep the sweat out of my eyes which was much needed :)<br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><b><i></i></b></span><br /><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><b><i></i></b></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0hr9ddIEUNk/UP7Gakxj2RI/AAAAAAAAF6o/5jkx2U12CJc/s1600/buckle-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0hr9ddIEUNk/UP7Gakxj2RI/AAAAAAAAF6o/5jkx2U12CJc/s320/buckle-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>The Buckle</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<b style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Success is not the key to happiness. </span></i></b><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><b><i>Happiness is the key to success. </i></b></span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><b><i>If you love what you are doing, you will be successful. </i></b></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-57815465288156099392012-12-03T17:51:00.000-05:002012-12-03T17:51:15.933-05:00The Second Annual Burlington VT Santa 5K<span style="font-size: large;">AND OTHER TRAINING TALES</span><br />
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<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/-rs4BUTBNzqU/ULy-6NKYAnI/AAAAAAAAFvs/iSMFXxam9M4/s1600/Santa+5K+with+Rebels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rs4BUTBNzqU/ULy-6NKYAnI/AAAAAAAAFvs/iSMFXxam9M4/s640/Santa+5K+with+Rebels.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Hanging out with the SBHS XC Rebel Girls!</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Sunday, December 2, 2012<br />
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The second annual Santa 5K in Burlington, VT is in the books with a record number of Santa runners. This is now I believe the second largest running event in the state of VT, only behind the Key Bank Vermont City Marathon. Amazing! The rainy forecast luckily didn't happen and warm but windy temps made for a great run. Nearly 2000 Santa runners lined Church Street for the start.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RJwwqu-udnI/ULy_NSGD2XI/AAAAAAAAFv0/Bc5bhDDcuNA/s1600/Santa+5K+Church+Street.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="379" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RJwwqu-udnI/ULy_NSGD2XI/AAAAAAAAFv0/Bc5bhDDcuNA/s640/Santa+5K+Church+Street.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: small;">Nearly 2000 Santas on Church Street</span></b></i></td></tr>
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Even with the record number of runners the start went off smoothly. It was a little slow going until we spread out a bit and then it was onto Main Street. Down hill we went picking up momentum when suddenly a crazed Elf came darting out into the runners. It was Buddy The Elf.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sCBJfMxrCD4/ULzTcbFyFwI/AAAAAAAAFxM/Lf8GoZRWDFY/s1600/Buddy+the+elf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="269" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sCBJfMxrCD4/ULzTcbFyFwI/AAAAAAAAFxM/Lf8GoZRWDFY/s320/Buddy+the+elf.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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He was yelling" Santa, I know you" and sounded just like Will Ferrell. It was hard not to laugh even as he cut off the runners. Shortly thereafter a few other bad elves joined in for the run. We came around the bottom of Main Street and as we turned onto Battery Street at full speed I was trying to pass some runner with a dog on a leash. Not good, the dog cut me off and I had to jump on the curb to prevent a disaster. Then it was the long haul up Battery. The wind was at our back but still seemed to be swirling around. I was better prepared with my Santa suit this year and had pinned up the pants so they wouldn't fall off but I forgot to tighten up the top. As we hit So. Willard, the wind was howling in our faces and the top was like a parachute catching the wind. I kept trying to tuck it in but it wasn't working. Luckily it wasn't far to go until we ran down Howard to So. Union with the wind at our back again. <br />
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Overall just a fun race, times were slow but running in a Santa suit on a windy day makes it a challenge to run fast. And it was a great day to see friends to kickoff the Holidays!<br />
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Full results can be found here: <a href="http://www.events.runningroom.com/site/?raceId=7619&eventId=23809&vrindex=4" target="_blank">5K Results</a><br />
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And click here for the BFP <a href="http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/article/20121203/NEWS02/121203010/Video-Thousands-Participate-Ri-Ra-s-Santa-5K-Run-Walk?odyssey=tab%7Ctopnews%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE" target="_blank">Video</a><br />
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<b>THE WEEK IN TRAINING</b><br />
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My week leading up to the Santa 5K had been sort of crazy. I'm trying to look at it as a glass half full instead of half empty. I was in some kind of funk all week, maybe something to do with the moon?? The week started with the Monday noon time run at Redrocks in Burlington. Awesome day and ran multiple perimeter loops. Tuesday it was bikram yoga with a run before and after and I didn't bonk in class which is always a good thing! I was in town for the Thursday night run group a bit early for some extra miles. I started off in shorts which was fine until I arrived on the south end of Burlington and as soon as I headed north, the winds kicked in along with the pelting snow. Legs were fine but the eyes were sore. I changed up to some warmer clothes and then ran more with the group which was fun especially running along Church Street with snow and the Christmas lights.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wpEIVurIqlE/ULzCdOwGKlI/AAAAAAAAFwg/68g4NseZrw0/s1600/Church-Street-at-Night.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wpEIVurIqlE/ULzCdOwGKlI/AAAAAAAAFwg/68g4NseZrw0/s400/Church-Street-at-Night.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Church Street</i></b></span></td></tr>
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But then while going to the after run festivities at the VT Pub and Brewery, I got hit by a car while crossing Main Street. It was sort of freaky. I had the green light to walk and didn't even think of it as I went across. Next thing I knew I was being spun around and had my elbow smashed. I stood in the middle of the road trying to figure out what just happened. Some Jeep was stopped in front of me, apparently a bit shocked as well as he attempted a left turn and never saw me. What the heck!! I went up to the driver. He was complaining about not being able to see with the snow on his windshield and some bed on his roof?? I think he was more freaked out than me. I told him I was fine and to have a good night. I was ok, just bruised. More shocked than anything. The way I look at it, it's all about fate. When people are concerned about some of my adventures whether it be jumping out of planes or running through lightning storms or solo adventures who knows where, I usually refer to the fate thing. When your number comes up at the deli, it's your time, until then enjoy life to it's fullest! So I guess it's good I did't get squished. One second faster on that street crossing and I could have been a hood ornament, but I wasn't. I guess my number hasn't been called yet :) <br />
Friday night I had a great run in the fresh snow in the Charlotte Park and Wildlife Refuge. On the way back along Greenbush Road I saw an unfamiliar hound crossing the street. I hesitated at first but saw this canine heading into some trees on the other side of the road. Usually the only dog on this section is a German Shepard chained up but this dog had a square head. I could see his legs under the trees and quietly advanced along Greenbush Road hoping he didn't see me. As soon as I was even with him, I could see him preparing for he kill. Do I retreat or do the mad sprint was going through my mind. I kept moving forward. I saw him come around from the trees and work me into his plan. He came out of the trees from behind me, a big Rottweiler and I could hear his nails digging into the road on hot pursuit. Speed work!! Let's go!!<br />
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I put it into high gear and so did he. I could hear his nails digging into the pavement and increasing in speed as I was. I was eyeing for protection and saw some driveway markers I might be able to pull out of the frozen ground, that was option one. Then I ran by a neighbor and was thinking I could use him as a block but screamed to him, "Do you know this dog"? Apparently he did and he started to yell for the dog. I could still hear those nails digging in and not letting up as I sprinted at max speed. He yelled again and finally the dog slowed. I yelled thank you as I kept moving forward. So I guess it was all good as I didn't get bit. Never a dull moment on my runs :)<br />
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Saturday I began my seasonal Elf duties at Dakin and am starting to feel a bit overwhelmed with Elf time and training for the next few weeks. But I'll get'r done somehow as usual.<br />
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<i><span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b>“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing. </b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b>To keep our faces toward change and behave like free spirits in the presence of fate is strength undefeatable.” </b></span></i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-2444589345028219112012-11-27T13:45:00.000-05:002012-11-27T13:45:51.889-05:00TRANSITION TO WINTER TRAINING<b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">SOME FUN FALL RUNS </span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">AND TIME TO FOCUS ON 2013</span></b><br />
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Fall has been great for training this year and in Northern VT we were lucky enough to miss Super-Storm Sandy and the Nor'easter. Trails have been mostly dry but temps are finally starting to dip and the day light hours are getting shorter each day. It's still been a mix of shorts and tights but more often now it's the tights and a headlamp so winter is fast approaching. And talk of screw shoes is becoming a reality again. The joys of winter running!<br />
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I had an awesome time helping to coach the So. Burlington girls cross country team this fall. Definitely one of the highlights of my year working with the girls and Coach Jess!! But it also gave me time to back off on my own race schedule which was a much needed break and just time to run for fun. Once that was over in early November, I suddenly realized it was time to get my butt in gear and start training especially with some races set for mid January 2013!<br />
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I've been slowing ramping up the miles again but trying to keep it fun. I hit the mountains once a week for some good long hill runs. Here are some of the adventures I've had recently:<br />
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<b><u>Mansfield Loop</u></b>, Fall edition: Always a challenge on this 26 mile loop and fall is an exceptional time to run this. Leaves are down, temps are cooler and the views can be spectacular. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0PMRrR8EiLg/ULQ4EVKYizI/AAAAAAAAFss/uhlCLs0HZOE/s1600/Mansfield+Chin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0PMRrR8EiLg/ULQ4EVKYizI/AAAAAAAAFss/uhlCLs0HZOE/s400/Mansfield+Chin.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>The Chin on Mt. Mansfield</i></span></b><br />
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The Loop starts and finishes at the end of Stevensville Rd. in Underhill peaking out at the highest point in VT, the Chin on Mount Mansfield. On the way to the Chin there are many sites to see.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-msghtDdSkzE/ULQ6CKt5r0I/AAAAAAAAFs8/iNRYPA93Iuw/s1600/Waterfall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-msghtDdSkzE/ULQ6CKt5r0I/AAAAAAAAFs8/iNRYPA93Iuw/s320/Waterfall.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Waterfall heading toward the Trout Club</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dd3AvFL2Dxc/ULQ63__hMCI/AAAAAAAAFtE/mvT-L95ouFM/s1600/Prime+Real+Estate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dd3AvFL2Dxc/ULQ63__hMCI/AAAAAAAAFtE/mvT-L95ouFM/s320/Prime+Real+Estate.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Stowe Premier Property</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Some of the loop includes a short section of dead end dirt roads with prime real estate in the Stowe Area. For only $1.6 million, you can own this fine home.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RYmkymq-ymY/ULQ7usYUkFI/AAAAAAAAFtM/jFRQoTDtTK4/s1600/Trapps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RYmkymq-ymY/ULQ7usYUkFI/AAAAAAAAFtM/jFRQoTDtTK4/s320/Trapps.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">The Sound of Music at Trapps</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Or if you prefer more civilized living, Trapps offers wonderful accommodations with spectacular views. Just beware of the trail police as you run through the trails at Trapps.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GTVvXIt15UE/ULQ8ZhYmVoI/AAAAAAAAFtY/wrZ3FaZt0tk/s1600/Water+Pipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GTVvXIt15UE/ULQ8ZhYmVoI/AAAAAAAAFtY/wrZ3FaZt0tk/s320/Water+Pipe.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Part of the ascent up to the Chin is along the Toll Road and you may be thirsty and out of water but DON'T drink the water from this pipe!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OdO1upED3nA/ULQ9E1FtV1I/AAAAAAAAFtg/Rl4vcJuDN8U/s1600/Bad+Water.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OdO1upED3nA/ULQ9E1FtV1I/AAAAAAAAFtg/Rl4vcJuDN8U/s320/Bad+Water.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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As it's source is from this muck hole just above containing who knows what dead organisms. Not convinced? Ask Aliza :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_TS-3GdiTuU/ULQ90FUHQ5I/AAAAAAAAFto/ZgZje63X9kM/s1600/Sandy+sky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_TS-3GdiTuU/ULQ90FUHQ5I/AAAAAAAAFto/ZgZje63X9kM/s400/Sandy+sky.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Sandy approaching as seen from the Summit</span></i></b></td></tr>
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The Chin on this day was quite eerie looking with Sandy approaching from the south. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4OAyksY_uxQ/ULQ-cqX3DyI/AAAAAAAAFtw/xsrx3fZ236E/s1600/Chutes+and+Ladders.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4OAyksY_uxQ/ULQ-cqX3DyI/AAAAAAAAFtw/xsrx3fZ236E/s320/Chutes+and+Ladders.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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The descent along the Long Trail is always interesting with many Chutes and Ladders and rock faces.<br />
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All in all, it was a spectacular day. I took the time to relax and have fun with the run. I made it out just at sunset but was even prepared this time as I had a headlamp in my pack. But I did run out of water like usual, but only a couple of miles before the end.<br />
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<b><u>Camels Hump</u></b>, another great training run: The Hump offers many different options for routes and distances depending on time and weather. The summer certainly is the most popular but winter runs may be the quickest on packed out snow with spikes as the snow fills in the gaps between the rocks. For fall, you face the challenges of mud, ice and snow all rolled into one day. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P-RwrRXyGaE/ULRAmPMpfJI/AAAAAAAAFt4/QdddgyStW6w/s1600/Camel's+Hump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P-RwrRXyGaE/ULRAmPMpfJI/AAAAAAAAFt4/QdddgyStW6w/s400/Camel's+Hump.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">The Summit on Camel's Hump</span></i></b></td></tr>
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This particular day on the Burrows Trail started out with mud, then scattered snow followed by the intermittent ice flows in the thicker woods and then back to snow with ice near the summit. Not quite enough ice and snow for the spikes ( I left them in the car any way), although they would have been nice at times. But certainly enough ice to make it a more challenging day to say the least.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Jl4lxqO280/ULRBgTiADiI/AAAAAAAAFuA/u7F58KzevzY/s1600/Ice+1+on+the+Hump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Jl4lxqO280/ULRBgTiADiI/AAAAAAAAFuA/u7F58KzevzY/s320/Ice+1+on+the+Hump.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Ice Flow heading up to the Hump</span></i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">More Ice</span></i></b></td></tr>
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I always think if I take the Forest City Trail down it will be better. Never is, just more ice on the descent.<br />
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Overall it was a great day on the Hump. I was amazed I stayed upright the entire day. I have a hard time doing that in even good conditions.<br />
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<b><u>Appalachian Trail</u></b>: While visiting in CT over Thanksgiving I discovered some amazing trails that were all new to me and it included part of the Appalachian Trail.<br />
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I found this section while searching on my smart phone which I usually refer to as my dumb phone, or maybe it's because I haven't figured out all the features and I'm not the smart one :) The trail started in Kent, CT and I did an out and back into Cornwall Bridge or somewhere near there. Not really sure where I was.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1d10jdaqeyQ/ULRFMkph9sI/AAAAAAAAFuw/nxXlW7u-wzs/s1600/tc+stile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1d10jdaqeyQ/ULRFMkph9sI/AAAAAAAAFuw/nxXlW7u-wzs/s1600/tc+stile.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">The start of the trail</span></i></b></td></tr>
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The trail starts out climbing over a fence before running through some open fields, then the fun starts with some great hills.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">The Ledges steep descent</span></i></b></td></tr>
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One of the more fun sections was an area called St. John's Ledges. Here's the description:<br />
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<i>Although it may look daunting, 90 stone steps installed by Appalachian Mountain Club volunteers and a professional trail crew make the descent manageable but hands may be needed for balance and leverage every so often. After this knee-jarring descent you might reconsider the difficulty when witnessing rock climbers ascending the adjacent sheer rock face from the bottom up.</i><br />
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This was actually a really fun section except for the bottomless leaf hole I fell in causing me to descend a bit faster than expected and while picking up speed hitting rocks I had to do a self arrest much like in the snow. I didn't see any visible blood flowing not that I really looked for it but just kept moving or it would have hurt a lot more.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y6ceLjKrqB4/ULRHGaxb_mI/AAAAAAAAFvA/t3PHC9TZUUI/s1600/tc+trail+along+housatonic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y6ceLjKrqB4/ULRHGaxb_mI/AAAAAAAAFvA/t3PHC9TZUUI/s1600/tc+trail+along+housatonic.jpg" /></a><br />
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Part of the journey included some really nice single track along the Housatonic River.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EyRJvJ5cGrg/ULRHZD3kcGI/AAAAAAAAFvI/vLnP8BH_710/s1600/tc+view+from+calebs+peek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EyRJvJ5cGrg/ULRHZD3kcGI/AAAAAAAAFvI/vLnP8BH_710/s1600/tc+view+from+calebs+peek.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Caleb's Peak</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Other peaks offered pleasant views of the valley below.<br />
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All in all a great day and another adventure. Not so unusual, I had to ration food and water. Not knowing where I was or where I was going and not having a pack to carry enough supplies was just typical for me and always a learning lesson. I sort of forgot to pack any kind of hydration equipment or backpack on this journey to CT. So I ran for 4 1/2 hours on 22 oz. of water and 3 GU gels. I did carry $2 with me but never saw a store so it was useless. The last hour I was running on fumes and the vision was deteriorating from lack of calories and fluids. I did roughly calculate when I might finish up and wanted to make it out before sunset as I did have a headlamp... but left it in the car since I had no way to carry it. Luckily I got out of the woods by 4 PM as it was getting dark in the thick of the woods towards the end.<br />
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<b>The training continues</b>. Along with the running I keep going to bikram yoga once a week whenever I have a free moment. Still a major challenge to successfully make it through without bonking. And the core work has been increasing. Not at a gym but cutting and hauling firewood. The lottery Gods in the next couple of weeks will be deciding the rest of the season for 2013. Will it be the Gram Slam, Hardrock or maybe Tour de Giants?? Time will tell!<br />
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<b><i><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: large;">whole idea is not </span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: large;"><b style="background-color: transparent;"><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">to beat the other runners.</span></i></b></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: large;"><b style="background-color: transparent;"><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Eventually you learn that the competition is</span></i></b></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: large;">against the little voice inside you that wants you to quit."</span></i></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-10155869331398412962012-11-16T12:34:00.001-05:002012-11-16T12:34:17.553-05:00RUN YOUR CAN OFF<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GOnEBL74XRg/UKZnDC4uscI/AAAAAAAAFqE/GQ9mE0056EE/s1600/RYCO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GOnEBL74XRg/UKZnDC4uscI/AAAAAAAAFqE/GQ9mE0056EE/s320/RYCO.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;"><b>RUN YOUR CAN OFF 2012</b></span><br />
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This is totally an event and not a race but also a test of endurance for many who try to run for up to 6 hours on a 1.25 mile course through the woods. More importantly it's a fundraiser for the Winooski Food Shelf at a time of year when donations are desperately needed. You can donate food for each lap you run or if you want to run for 6 hours, bring a whole turkey! And anything in between including cash donations. There's no entry fee and the entire event is run by volunteers with the help of donations from local and not so local businesses. One aid station is fully stocked with various food and drink, again supplied by local businesses. The only variable is the weather and this year it couldn't have been any nicer. Temps in the low 40's, dry and some later day sun!</div>
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The event this year on it's 3rd anniversary was directed by Jen Sorrell who took over the reigns from Greg Veltkamp who happened to move to Alaska. Jen had the enthusiastic help of Scott Barras to make this year's event the most successful ever.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gCO0Z-GGuJg/UKZnVfaw9iI/AAAAAAAAFqM/RuE8dyDTFwc/s1600/RYCO+start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gCO0Z-GGuJg/UKZnVfaw9iI/AAAAAAAAFqM/RuE8dyDTFwc/s400/RYCO+start.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>The Start Line</i></b></span></td></tr>
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At the start there were nearly 170 runners/walkers/trail strollers lined up on a chilly morning in the upper 30's with a brisk breeze. At 9:00 am we were off and running. Immediately you climb the biggest hill of the course but within 20 seconds you're at the peak and onto mostly flat single track. The rest of the course is on mostly gently rolling trails with enough room on most to push a stroller equipped with fatter wheels. Good enough for Todd and his coach Henry to negotiate. <br />
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I started off running with Joe and Mike and quickly warmed up, enough to get rid of a wind shell after lap one. The nice part of doing laps is being able to hit the aid stations frequently if needed. And each time you ran through they counted your laps. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sOP180tOEaw/UKZpaCxMyhI/AAAAAAAAFqc/PDRFAplK_Pw/s1600/Aid+Station+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sOP180tOEaw/UKZpaCxMyhI/AAAAAAAAFqc/PDRFAplK_Pw/s200/Aid+Station+3.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TjsIas-Db2M/UKZpo4AQAVI/AAAAAAAAFqk/WMWCa6311Cs/s1600/Aid+Station+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TjsIas-Db2M/UKZpo4AQAVI/AAAAAAAAFqk/WMWCa6311Cs/s320/Aid+Station+2.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Soon Pablo joined up and we ran quite a few laps together. With most of the leaves down much of the trail was covered so you couldn't see all the roots but Scott went out prior to the start to rake away any bad areas. Still, I managed to find a few obstacles and crashed hard twice doing my tuck and roll to keep on pace.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uA7pxy4rbbE/UKZqH4j1acI/AAAAAAAAFqs/xu7ihdtTx48/s1600/Jack+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uA7pxy4rbbE/UKZqH4j1acI/AAAAAAAAFqs/xu7ihdtTx48/s320/Jack+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Pablo and Jack</i></b></span></td></tr>
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The sun was shining and it was just a great day to run with friends in the woods.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8CAmOmmhLNg/UKZspGplixI/AAAAAAAAFrM/JY-UGCY_K8Y/s1600/Joe+C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8CAmOmmhLNg/UKZspGplixI/AAAAAAAAFrM/JY-UGCY_K8Y/s320/Joe+C.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>The Legend Joe Carrara</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZaRRaK8DkCo/UKZtFebgvgI/AAAAAAAAFrU/wtRPJEjkqxk/s1600/Paul.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZaRRaK8DkCo/UKZtFebgvgI/AAAAAAAAFrU/wtRPJEjkqxk/s320/Paul.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Paul up and running</span></i></b></td></tr>
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At one point I came around a corner and found Paul down on the ground after just crashing on a root. After a little chat we were able to get him back up and running again. He's tough!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-deTn0377PJU/UKZt3B5YJVI/AAAAAAAAFrc/0NugmBu-CI4/s1600/Clem+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-deTn0377PJU/UKZt3B5YJVI/AAAAAAAAFrc/0NugmBu-CI4/s320/Clem+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Clem</span></i></b></td></tr>
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The famous ultra runner Clem also took some hard diggers but kept going as always.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-exkLpz2Ltyc/UKZuRYQVFpI/AAAAAAAAFrk/oCwhwHFUwak/s1600/Scott+with+daughter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-exkLpz2Ltyc/UKZuRYQVFpI/AAAAAAAAFrk/oCwhwHFUwak/s320/Scott+with+daughter.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: small;">Felicity and Dad on the big hill</span></b></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d-fnoVS8ikM/UKZuqxyIJLI/AAAAAAAAFrs/meFCPc8QbZ8/s1600/Kyle+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d-fnoVS8ikM/UKZuqxyIJLI/AAAAAAAAFrs/meFCPc8QbZ8/s320/Kyle+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Kyle's dog taking him for a run</span></i></b></td></tr>
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After about 4 hours and 20 or so laps, I started to feel like a hamster on a treadmill in a cage. Once an hour I would stop at the aid station and refuel. Sometimes I would run backwards or sideways to make it interesting and ran on and off with different friends and dogs throughout the day. But I was also starting to feel a bit dehydrated and was getting some cramping twinges in my calves. I made the mistake of going to bikram yoga the afternoon before, not even thinking. Typically it takes me a good 24 hours to get back on track with hydration after a sweat-fest in bikram and I never do it the day before a race. I managed to swallow a few electrolyte pills without gagging too much but the last one almost set off the pukes. So for the last hour I took it easy and just kept doing easy laps. At the end I finished with 32 laps or about 40 miles (Garmin miles whatever they are). There were a number of other runners that completed the full 6 hours which was impressive including Pablo who also got in 32 laps.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cv24e8E4lxs/UKZyTc0Kw0I/AAAAAAAAFsM/6WYgD4XbteU/s1600/Jen+with+helper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cv24e8E4lxs/UKZyTc0Kw0I/AAAAAAAAFsM/6WYgD4XbteU/s320/Jen+with+helper.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">RD Jen with Felicity</span></i></b></td></tr>
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In the end a lot of food was donated to help make Thanksgiving a little nicer for many families so thanks to all the runners who participated. And thanks to Jen, Scott, Kristin and all the volunteers and sponsors who made this a great event. Looking forward to next year! For more information click here: <a href="http://runyourcanoff.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">RYCO</a><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-58753036612763958222012-11-09T18:56:00.000-05:002012-11-10T07:23:25.476-05:00LIFE IS GOOD<div>
Sometimes it's the simple things in life that make you happy. After freezing my butt off for the last 3 winters I decided to invest in some HEAT! 94 degrees last night, had to open the windows and get rid of the down comforter. 12 hours later, the stove was still warm. Have to work on the temps a bit but totally enjoying it :) This could be great for heat training. I could even host a bikram yoga session here!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BXe2GyhVxVw/UJ2U3R_hJqI/AAAAAAAAFpg/pBSYjkmEjWo/s1600/New+Stove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="384" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BXe2GyhVxVw/UJ2U3R_hJqI/AAAAAAAAFpg/pBSYjkmEjWo/s400/New+Stove.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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Looking forward to winter :)<br />
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And don't forget "Run Your Can Off" on Saturday November 10th to benefit the Winooski Food Shelf: <a href="http://runyourcanoff.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://runyourcanoff.blogspot.com/</a><br />
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<i style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: blue;">At one point in your life you either have the things you want or the reasons why you don't</span></i></h2>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-27572772322821469802012-10-06T21:51:00.000-04:002012-10-06T21:51:13.114-04:00THE OREGON ADVENTURE AND BEYOND<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It’s been about 7 weeks since I returned from the running of Where’s Waldo 100K in Oregon and finally found some time to sit down to recall my adventures in the Cascade Mountain Range.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hER9mckZNJw/UHC_GVn46QI/AAAAAAAAFks/ik4dLwxCP44/s1600/Waldo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hER9mckZNJw/UHC_GVn46QI/AAAAAAAAFks/ik4dLwxCP44/s640/Waldo.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b>WHERE’S WALDO 100K RACE REPORT 2012</b></span><br />
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Willamette Pass Oregon, August 18, 2012<br />
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Wed morning before the race, up at 3:00 am to catch the 5:18 am flight, leg one to DC. I dropped the car off at Thrifty airport parking. No one was at the office so I put the keys in the drop box. This meant no shuttle so I had to walk about a ½ mile with luggage to the airport at 4:00 am. Good thing for wheels on luggage. Boarded plane on time and on we go… almost. I have yet to take off on time from BTV when we are the first plane to leave that day. This time we taxied out for take-off but got a message from the captain saying there was a computer glitch and would have to try a control/alt/delete. So we sat in the middle of the runway and had to turn the plane completely off, sit in darkness as they “rebooted” the plane to see if it would solve the “issue”. After 5 seconds in total darkness they turned the power back on. Apparently it worked or we hoped it worked and soon we were off to Dulles, in DC. Amazing but I think we even arrived on time, it was 7:15 am at Dulles. Walking into the terminal my phone rang and was notified that I had an email message. No one calls me at that hour, except….United. Sure enough my 9 AM flight, the next leg to San Francisco was cancelled. Instead I was rebooked on a flight to Denver leaving at 3:55 PM with final arrival time in Eugene near 9PM. I tried my luck at customer service but no go. So now what to do and how would I get in my run today? I’ve been stuck in this airport before. I figured I would make the most of my time in DC and jumped on the bus to the Aerospace Museum only 15 minutes away. I knew they had lockers to store my bags and I could get a run in there. I did that last year on my way to UTMB. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HahBA1-c3EQ/UHDAk3gVltI/AAAAAAAAFlE/7aLIh0oPqoM/s1600/Aerospace+Museum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HahBA1-c3EQ/UHDAk3gVltI/AAAAAAAAFlE/7aLIh0oPqoM/s320/Aerospace+Museum.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Space Shuttle at the museum</span></i></b></td></tr>
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The grounds at the museum are surrounded by barbed wire so you can’t go far but I created a perimeter loop and did that a couple of times to get in 45 minutes of run time. Back at the airport I visited customer service again only to find out my next flight was also delayed but they found another flight leaving in 15 minutes so I quickly jumped on that. I arrived in Denver with about a 2 hour layover until another delay on the flight to Eugene. I finally arrived in Eugene at around 9:30 PM.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SDjnixuxJWU/UHC_1ICJfUI/AAAAAAAAFk8/vFTJ6rhWbaY/s1600/Pre.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SDjnixuxJWU/UHC_1ICJfUI/AAAAAAAAFk8/vFTJ6rhWbaY/s320/Pre.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">First thing I saw when I got off the plane, <br />a pic of legend Steve Prefontaine</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Immediately the phone buzzes to notify me that I have an email. It was from the race director letting us know that there was a fire in the middle of the race course and that the race was now in jeopardy. Great!! After another hour they found my luggage which had arrived earlier but was lost in house. I got my rental car which was way smaller than I had reserved, no way to car camp in it. And then found out the road I needed to drive on closed at 8 PM due to construction. Here I was stuck in Eugene after an 8 hour delay, late at night and had no idea where I was or where I was going. Luckily the guys at the United desk in Eugene were awesome and finally after another hour I had a place to stay in Eugene compliments of United :) I arrived at the hotel after midnight, after being up for 25 hours, totally exhausted but I made it!<br />
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Thursday morning after a great sleep at the River Hotel I got some breakfast and was off on the next leg to Willamette Pass. The drive from Eugene to Willamette Pass was very enjoyable. Not much traffic to deal with along this scenic one lane highway surrounded by huge trees. I had to stop at the tunnel for a while as it only allowed one lane through during the day due to construction. Shortly after that I arrived at Willamette Pass Ski Area, which was the start and finish area as well as the camping spot for the Where’s Waldo 100K Race. It was pretty quiet on this Thursday but I did run into one local runner from Eugene. He gave me the low down on the area and told me of a better spot to camp for the night. So I headed to Gold Lake, just a couple of miles down the road off the beaten path.<br />
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Gold Lake is a small self-serve campsite of 20 or so sites. I found an awesome site overlooking Gold Lake and set up my tent. Afterwards I returned to Willamette Pass to get in a quick run before having dinner. While there I met up with another local, Doug McCarty from Eugene who was also running Where’s Waldo. He gave more info about the race and the general area. After a while, I departed for my run and headed up the mountain on what would be the start of the race.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-obDs4_wi0qs/UHDCBxfQkKI/AAAAAAAAFlM/IFiz6Fg5Pjc/s1600/Fire+at+Bobby+Lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-obDs4_wi0qs/UHDCBxfQkKI/AAAAAAAAFlM/IFiz6Fg5Pjc/s320/Fire+at+Bobby+Lake.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Fires at Bobby Lake</span></i></b></td></tr>
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It was an uphill climb right from the start to near the summit of Willamette Pass and then would continue into the woods. But instead of going into the woods I decided to go directly to the summit to get a good look at the views. On top the views were spectacular although a little hazy from the fires. I could see below the Bobby Lake fires in the middle of the race course. After enjoying the views, it was time to depart and I found some great single track mountain bike trails to descend. Back to Gold Lake for a wonderful dinner and a good night’s sleep!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WcHX0Rs2y9k/UHDCPS5LcAI/AAAAAAAAFlU/GXciAsuDCPA/s1600/Dinner+at+Gold+Lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WcHX0Rs2y9k/UHDCPS5LcAI/AAAAAAAAFlU/GXciAsuDCPA/s320/Dinner+at+Gold+Lake.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Dinner of champions at Gold Lake</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Friday morning I awoke to the smell of smoke. Over night the smoke had sunk down low and surrounded the area. As I looked across Gold Lake I could see the smoke billowing over head. After a little breakfast I packed up and returned to Willamette Pass where I would set up camp for the next 2 nights. It was more convenient to be there for the race start and finish. I met up with friend and assistant RD, Meghan Arbogast and was filled in on the latest fire update. They just got approval for a new course that would bypass the fire area so the race was on!! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7d4uWB0vZVo/UHDC4h9TeLI/AAAAAAAAFlc/VjKkQv_ypjI/s1600/Smoke+at+Gold+Lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7d4uWB0vZVo/UHDC4h9TeLI/AAAAAAAAFlc/VjKkQv_ypjI/s320/Smoke+at+Gold+Lake.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Smoke over Gold Lake</span></i></b></td></tr>
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The new course would add some distance to make it more like 66 miles. I decided to get in a little run and followed the finish of the race which was on the Pacific Crest Trail. The trail was surrounded by tall pine trees and the surface was a layer of soft dirt and pine needles. Not the usual rock and roots like at home. Wow, was this nice! I just ran up about 2 miles and decided to build a number of small rock pagodas alongside the trail. This way I would know when I was about 2 miles from the finish. After the run it was time for a swim. The north end of Odell Lake was only minutes away and I found another small campsite which had a trail leading to the lakeshore. It was a great swim and nice to be clean again! Back at camp it was time to get the drop bags organized. The aid stations were fully stocked with GU Brew drink, GU gels and S-caps, all my usual so I didn’t need much for drop bags. Still I packed two bags with spare shoes, socks, clothes, Body Glide, emergency S-caps, an extra water bottle and a few other odds and ends. They offered a great pre-pasta dinner which I enjoyed and then it was the pre-race meeting before retiring for the evening.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NzZbEPboKyw/UHDDl_-ytyI/AAAAAAAAFlk/4jzZynj_5Sg/s1600/Race+Start+at+Waldo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NzZbEPboKyw/UHDDl_-ytyI/AAAAAAAAFlk/4jzZynj_5Sg/s320/Race+Start+at+Waldo.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Race Start at Waldo</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Saturday morning, 4:00 AM, time to get up. Race start was at 5:00 AM so being up an hour earlier was good to get a little food in and a hot cup of tea. It was already warm, near 60 degrees with the day forecasting to be around 80 or so with sunshine. The start of the race went off and up we went on what was more of a service road. The course was so dry that the dust was flying. It was more of a fast power hike up. Already the lead pack of Tim Olsen, Jacob Rydman and some others took off. I ran in another group that included Yassine Diboun, a friend who I met years ago at the Finger Lakes. Yassine knew the course so I figured I would hang with him initially. The uphill certainly warmed things up. Just before we reached the summit the trail veered off into the woods. And downhill we went. Yassine took off on the downhill with his long legs and I would never see him again until the finish. I was in a pack of about eight runners going at a good clip all the way down to Gold Lake. The trail was excellent, soft and not too technical and led to the Gold Lake aid station. I arrived right on schedule at this 7.4 mile stop. This was the elevation low point of the race at 6600 feet. With the re-route we would return here again at mile 50. I quickly got rid of my headlamp, refueled and headed up towards Fugi Mtn. Luckily the skies were overcast with a light drizzle, way better than the forecasted hot sun. At this point it was time to run my own race and I knew there was a good uphill coming and many more to come so I backed off a bit. Fugi Mtn. was one of my favorite parts of the race with really nice single track trails winding through the woods. It had a short out and back to the summit at 7144’ which had some fun rocks to run on, more like back home. And it gave you a chance to see where everyone else was. Jacob and Tim went cruising by well ahead of the rest of the field. I was running in about 10th place. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k-JLMMdgchA/UHDD_oH6tSI/AAAAAAAAFls/LazjW67lREg/s1600/Yassine.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/-k-JLMMdgchA/UHDD_oH6tSI/AAAAAAAAFls/LazjW67lREg/s320/Yassine.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Yassine crushing the downhills</span></i></b></td></tr>
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The downhill all the way to the Mt. Ray aid station was fun. Great footing, dry and fast single track. From there it was on to The Twins and part of the re-route due to the fires around Bobby Lake. The trail just sort of meandered about, nothing too technical and then a short segment on the road before heading back into the woods. The next part of the race to Charlton Lake I was feeling like I was losing steam. I was running by myself and was just feeling tired. My legs never had the usual energy right from the start but sometimes it just takes a bit to get warmed up. Not today, just not happening. While running on this fabulous section of fun single track I thought back of all the races I’ve done this year and have been going non-stop since last December. Hmm, maybe it was time to take a break and rest up the body. Well first I needed to finish Waldo, and then it would be break time. I figured if I could just maintain I’d be fine, I only had about 36 miles to go. Soon I heard some soft footsteps behind me, it was Denise Bourassa. She was running strong and steady. I let her go by and she pulled me along which was what I needed. We got to Charlton Lake, quickly refueled and off again. I slowed up a bit after that and Denise was shortly out of sight. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MXdrfjeFQRk/UHDEP1sCoFI/AAAAAAAAFl0/gr3ElLV2Rew/s1600/Jack+chasing+Denise.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/-MXdrfjeFQRk/UHDEP1sCoFI/AAAAAAAAFl0/gr3ElLV2Rew/s320/Jack+chasing+Denise.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Jack following Denise<br />at Charlton Lake</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Next up was the 4290 aid station. The sun had come out and it was starting to get warm, especially in the sun. My nutrition and hydration had been good so far. I had been successful in opening up my s-caps and dumping them in my water bottle instead of swallowing them which recently has caused some major GI distress. And at 4290 I picked up a second water bottle from my drop bag figuring it would be getting warm at this point. But after 4290 I was really starting to feel the heat and backed it down some more. I figured I could make up some time later on when it cooled down. There was some good climbing heading up and around The Twins which are just over 7000 ft. The course then descended to The Twins aid station again and this time I sat and ate for a while I needed something to get me going. And they had popsicles!! My new favorite race day treat. Next stop, Gold Lake aid station. The section to Gold Lake was slow but steady. I was maintaining with some surges of energy from time to time and then loss of energy. I arrived at Gold Lake and knew it would be an 8 mile uphill to Maiden Peak. This was part of the re-route of the course. Gold Lake was the lowest elevation of the course at 6600’ and Maiden Peak was the highest elevation at 7818’. Usually I enjoy these climbs and can maintain a good steady pace but today would be another story. I got some good food in and refueled the water bottle and off I went looking forward to summiting Maiden Peak. About 50 feet from the aid station I took a sip from my water bottle. The s-cap I poured in the drink must have been sitting on top of the ice cubes and I got a full mouthful of that. Within seconds my stomach turned and I was on the side of the trail puking out all the food I just ate and then some. It hurt and more to come too. As soon as I could stand up straight I moved ahead slowly. Not good. This has become an all too familiar pattern. So onward I went, slow and unsteady. I couldn’t drink either as that made me nauseous too. My pace really slowed down. After about 4 or 5 miles there was a small aid station before the final ascent to the summit and I tried to suck on some jelly beans, not happening. The final ascent was steep and at one point I had to sit down on a log as I was starting to get dizzy from lack of food and water. When I did get to the summit I looked for a place to lie down and wanted to take a nap but it was too rocky so I just sat for a while and re-grouped. The views were awesome so I took advantage of the situation. I chatted with some other folks and hung out for probably 10 minutes. From the summit it would be an 8 mile downhill to the finish. Coming off the summit was the Leap of Faith, a steep technical downhill that normally I would love. I was like a snail. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4jTcVX0RngQ/UHDFUeyD-eI/AAAAAAAAFl8/gPVwwlbes0M/s1600/Leap+of+Faith.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/-4jTcVX0RngQ/UHDFUeyD-eI/AAAAAAAAFl8/gPVwwlbes0M/s320/Leap+of+Faith.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Heading down the <br />Leap of Faith</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Between the final ascent and the downhill, numerous runners were going by. I arrived at the final aid station, Maiden Lakes and tried again to eat. I grabbed some food and a coke. After one bite, I was on the side of the trail again purging what was left in me. The volunteers at the aid station were wonderful, bringing me a wet rag and wanted to help more. I sat down on a log for a while and regrouped once again. Unlike Tahoe, I wasn't going to quit today. I had plenty of time to finish and was going to finish. The downhill to the finish took me about twice as long as it should have. I even got passed by the guy who swam in all 6 lakes to win the Wet Waldo award but I must have passed him during his last swim. With about 2 miles to go I saw my rock pagodas, a happy sight! I finally finished with a time of 13:43:13 and in 25th place overall. Not a pretty picture but I got’r done :) Afterwards I went back to the tent and crashed for a couple of hours and then returned to eat. All was fine. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xk0NbME9QCg/UHDGHkuOQJI/AAAAAAAAFmE/OfIrq5cmc1k/s1600/Jack+and+Meghan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xk0NbME9QCg/UHDGHkuOQJI/AAAAAAAAFmE/OfIrq5cmc1k/s320/Jack+and+Meghan.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Jack and Meghan at the Finish</span></i></b></td></tr>
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The Gear: Pearl Izumi Trail II shoes were awesome as usual as were the Drymax socks. If only the rest of my body felt as good as my feet. And the Headsweats Ultra Race Cap kept the hot sun off my head. Thanks!<br />
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<b>ON THE ROAD TO BEND</b><br />
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I woke the next day and thanks to some local traveling advice from Doug, I was on my way to Bend, Oregon, a place I've wanted to visit for years and was even thinking this could be a place to relocate to.<br />
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<table align="center" 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/-U2c2_GmUYi8/UHDR28K4HdI/AAAAAAAAFms/AWLtGNWulho/s1600/Devils+Lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U2c2_GmUYi8/UHDR28K4HdI/AAAAAAAAFms/AWLtGNWulho/s320/Devils+Lake.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Devil's Lake</i></b></span></td></tr>
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The road to Bend along the scenic highway went from forest land to old volcanic fields to more desert like conditions.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8MueuYDDTqM/UHDRwUQxMBI/AAAAAAAAFmk/EZ9SGZY0Gf4/s1600/Mt.+Bachelor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8MueuYDDTqM/UHDRwUQxMBI/AAAAAAAAFmk/EZ9SGZY0Gf4/s320/Mt.+Bachelor.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Mt. Bachelor</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Snow still on Mt. Bachelor.<br />
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Arriving in Bend I was able to get in a run through downtown and along the Deschutes River, a popular spot for tubing.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b9z-vqeZb8A/UHDSlJa5ErI/AAAAAAAAFm0/Fd7ixgB_oP4/s1600/Deschutes+River+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b9z-vqeZb8A/UHDSlJa5ErI/AAAAAAAAFm0/Fd7ixgB_oP4/s320/Deschutes+River+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Deschutes River</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Nightlife in Bend includes numerous local breweries which I had a chance to visit a few.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1NUzgDEzpWU/UHDS73a9RfI/AAAAAAAAFm8/fKBb_YrTeS0/s1600/Downtown+Bend+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1NUzgDEzpWU/UHDS73a9RfI/AAAAAAAAFm8/fKBb_YrTeS0/s320/Downtown+Bend+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Downtown Bend</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<b>Back to Eugene the next day</b>. More incredible views along the way.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cdb16VeJV-M/UHDTtJWuynI/AAAAAAAAFnM/6-BjNO9Twqs/s1600/Three+Sisters+and+Broken+Top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cdb16VeJV-M/UHDTtJWuynI/AAAAAAAAFnM/6-BjNO9Twqs/s320/Three+Sisters+and+Broken+Top.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Three Sisters and Broken Top</i></b></span></td></tr>
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I drove another scenic highway and was amazed at the lava fields. This road cut right through the Sea of Lava which was miles and miles of old volcanic activity.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XfJNev8YeVg/UHDThEaA0uI/AAAAAAAAFnE/Cw0JhRrBsT8/s1600/Lava+Fields.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XfJNev8YeVg/UHDThEaA0uI/AAAAAAAAFnE/Cw0JhRrBsT8/s320/Lava+Fields.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Sea of Lava</span></i></b></td></tr>
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Soon I was back in Eugene and had a couple of places to visit on my list. The legendary Pre's Trail was a must see. I had enough time before flying out to get in a run.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--vOFfxt5ll8/UHDUMpZJ_zI/AAAAAAAAFnU/jiCfxIkMFxo/s1600/Pre's+Trail+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--vOFfxt5ll8/UHDUMpZJ_zI/AAAAAAAAFnU/jiCfxIkMFxo/s320/Pre's+Trail+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Pre's Trail in Eugene</span></i></b></td></tr>
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And then I had to see Hayward Field, another historic site. From Pre's Trail I found my way to historic Hayward Field. It was an awesome site. I felt the need to go run on it, even being a trail guy. When I got to the entrance it was locked shut. <br />
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<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/-IJwZgTcsGgU/UHDVWpzJgpI/AAAAAAAAFnc/AU3zgI5iGH4/s1600/Hayward+Field+Entrance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IJwZgTcsGgU/UHDVWpzJgpI/AAAAAAAAFnc/AU3zgI5iGH4/s320/Hayward+Field+Entrance.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Hayward Field Entrance</span></i></b></td></tr>
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With my adventurous ways I decided to run around and eventually found the "back door". I had the whole track to myself. I did a warm up lap and then ran a mile just because I felt the need. Even after just running a 100K plus I was inspired enough to put in a sub 7 minute mile.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tNPIbaYcunI/UHDVu9VblQI/AAAAAAAAFnk/4NXaFWKB7E8/s1600/Historic+Hayward+Field.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tNPIbaYcunI/UHDVu9VblQI/AAAAAAAAFnk/4NXaFWKB7E8/s320/Historic+Hayward+Field.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EVNu2ParEWg/UHDWNKXEbmI/AAAAAAAAFns/CAj2WnD7lnM/s1600/Tracktown+USA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EVNu2ParEWg/UHDWNKXEbmI/AAAAAAAAFns/CAj2WnD7lnM/s320/Tracktown+USA.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And so goes Oregon.... another adventure in the books.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">and then, A QUICK VISIT TO MINNESOTA</span><br />
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A couple of weeks after returning home from Oregon I was on another journey to the Superior Sawtooth 100 Mile Run in Minnesota but his time crewing and pacing for Ryan Welts and Kristina Folcik. I also dragged Serena along to help pace Kristina. Ryan had an incredible race finishing 3rd overall and posting the 6th fastest time on that course. Kristina had a come from behind win for the ladies and set a new course record. Congrats to Ryan and Kristina!!!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hGma4bO_6zw/UHDcGKHyTdI/AAAAAAAAFoQ/qka-ih6uq_M/s1600/Kristina+and+Ryan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hGma4bO_6zw/UHDcGKHyTdI/AAAAAAAAFoQ/qka-ih6uq_M/s320/Kristina+and+Ryan.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">AND BEYOND</span><br />
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Now I get my well deserved break from my own racing and can focus on another adventure. This fall I'm the assistant XC coach at South Burlington High School for the women's cross country team working with 20+ talented ladies. <i><b>Go Rebels!</b></i><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NBi3H6BGfRg/UHDdl26KBFI/AAAAAAAAFoY/o4N7uRQZhJc/s1600/Team+Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NBi3H6BGfRg/UHDdl26KBFI/AAAAAAAAFoY/o4N7uRQZhJc/s320/Team+Photo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><b><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;">To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift.</span></b></i></div>
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<i>Steve Prefontaine</i></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;"><b><i>You have to wonder at times what you're doing out there. Over the years, I've given myself a thousand reasons to keep running, but it always comes back to where it started. </i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;"><b><i>It comes down to self-satisfaction and a sense of achievement.</i></b></span></div>
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<i>Steve Prefontaine</i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-64752663916177265402012-07-27T14:50:00.001-04:002012-07-28T12:04:02.209-04:00Tahoe Rim Trail 100 Mile Endurance Run, 2012<b><span style="font-size: large;">AND BEYOND !</span></b><br />
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<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/-zbWtDE2Q8FM/UBQGWUMFjBI/AAAAAAAAFkI/IVt5kjpPFj4/s1600/295372_10151032083647296_778590390_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zbWtDE2Q8FM/UBQGWUMFjBI/AAAAAAAAFkI/IVt5kjpPFj4/s640/295372_10151032083647296_778590390_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Tahoe Rim Trail</i></b></span></td></tr>
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This past weekend's run of the Tahoe Rim 100 was awesome... yet disappointing. My race expectations were somewhat diminished with some troubled times on the trail, but I met some great folks and had the chance to see some incredible views and run some fabulous trails along the Tahoe Rim Trail in Nevada.<br />
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I first decided to sign up for this race some late night on the computer during the early winter months. I had run, paced and crewed at the VT 100 every year since 2005 which was the same weekend but this year I was looking for a change of scenery. The views from the Tahoe Rim Trail looked incredible so I went on-line to sign up .....only to be put on a waiting list. It seemed like for months I wasn't moving along much on the wait list and then all of a sudden in February I received an email saying I was accepted!! I was psyched, new race, new scenery. I had been to the California/Tahoe area in 2006 for Western States but never explored the Nevada side.<br />
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Leading up to the TRT 100 I had a number of other races ranging from 5k's to 100 milers that I had run this year. I had some good mileage under me and was working hard on heat training for the possible hot desert like conditions which I saw in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in 2006. I felt good overall. Looking at the long range forecast it was calling for temps near 90 and sunny down in Carson but I figured it would be a bit cooler in the mountains.<br />
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The alarm clock was set for 3:00 AM that Wednesday morning to get on the 5:18 AM flight out of Burlington. But at 2:30 AM I was woken up by a phone call. It was United telling me one of my flights had been cancelled. A great way to start the trip! Luckily I had some time in between flights and rescheduling the middle flight was not a huge problem. Flying to Reno is no easy chore as it took 4 airports and 15 hours of flying time. But with the change of time going west I arrived in Reno by 5:00 PM and had time to check in at the motel and get in a quick run. I found a room just a mile north of downtown Carson City which was perfect. Quiet room, air conditioning, refrigerator and free breakfast! As soon as I arrived I scoped out some hills to run off Goni Road, BLM land which was a 4 wheelers paradise. <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/-MgY-wzhy7oY/UBLYW8dQkqI/AAAAAAAAFew/1A6bkoW_iis/s1600/Goni+Road+Hills.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MgY-wzhy7oY/UBLYW8dQkqI/AAAAAAAAFew/1A6bkoW_iis/s400/Goni+Road+Hills.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Goni Road Hills</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">It was sort of like running up the Toll Road at Stowe but dry desert like conditions. I saw some horses on the hillside which I learned later on were probably wild Mustangs. I ran up for about 30 minutes reaching about 7000 feet in elevation and could see the sun starting to set so I turned around and headed back down. </span><br />
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Thursday morning I decided to find part of the TRT 100 course to check out. I drove past Spooner Summit near the start finish and continued north along Rt. 28 to Diamond Peak Ski Area on the north end of Lake Tahoe. This section of the course had the steepest climb going up to 8500 feet in elevation. I figured this would be good to see how I would do in the altitude. The course ranged in elevation from 6,600 ft. to somewhere just over 9,000 ft. Usually I'm good to around 10,000 feet or so and that seemed to be the case here. It took about 40 minutes to climb up this sandy service road which rose about 1800 feet in elevation over about 2 miles. About half way up were some letters written in the sand in orange, <span style="color: orange;"><b>OMG!</b></span> it said. Then a little while later, orange letters again, <span style="color: orange;"><b>WTF!!</b></span> I chuckled.<br />
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<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/-Ce1uKvgDLVM/UBLbtejERLI/AAAAAAAAFfM/3sjJR6RDl7o/s1600/diamondpeak-1.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/-Ce1uKvgDLVM/UBLbtejERLI/AAAAAAAAFfM/3sjJR6RDl7o/s320/diamondpeak-1.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Diamond Peak Climb</i></b></span></td></tr>
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I hung out on top for a bit trying to acclimate. It was overcast and drizzling slightly but I found an open hut on top to hang out in. After about 15 minutes I had enough and decided to head down. As soon as I started I ran into Deb from Seattle, also running the TRT 100. So we had a good chat while running down together.<br />
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Friday I decided to hit the Spooner Summit area of the TRT 100. I ran north from the trail head up for a couple miles to try to get some more altitude training in. The trail head is at around 7100 feet so I figured I probably got up to about 8,000 feet. I found a nice place to hang out on some rocks with fabulous views looking towards the east.<br />
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Later that day it was time for race check-in. I quickly signed in and headed back to the room to prepare my drop bags which needed to be back at check-in a couple of hours later. I had an idea of what I needed earlier and spend a bit of time the night before but needed to really understand drop bag areas and what they had for drinks and food. This course was also a 2 loop course which makes it a little easier to figure drop bags and one of the aid stations you visit 6 times during the race so that would be ideal for most of the needed items. I prepared a small bag for the 50 mile station with some extra socks, electrolyte pills and GU Brew drink mix. But the Tunnel Creek bag had way more provisions including extra shoes, lights and night clothing. I had it all calculated out where I could hit a drop bag about every 17 +/- miles. I also calculated splits on when I would be at each station based on previous runners and results. I was organized this time, (unlike at MMT where I was totally unprepared) and ready to run! Also on course they had S-caps and Succeed Ultra drink so no fear of running out of electrolytes. Just before the pre-race meeting I dropped off my bags, afterwards a quick pre-race briefing and off for dinner. For those unfamiliar with Carson City, you can find all the Mexican and Asian food that you want but Italian food is rare. The only place I found was an Olive Garden, luckily they had that which was fine.<br />
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<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/-xX1eimLUvdk/UBLjnVFU5lI/AAAAAAAAFfw/NKOgezopmaw/s1600/564702_413111558726010_728546790_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xX1eimLUvdk/UBLjnVFU5lI/AAAAAAAAFfw/NKOgezopmaw/s320/564702_413111558726010_728546790_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Start/Finish Area</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Race Morning: I woke up about 3:00 AM and had a quick bite to eat, grabbed my gear which included my almost brand new electric blue Pearl Izumi Trail II shoes, new Pearl Infinity LD shorts with extra pockets and white singlet. <span style="background-color: white;">I figured with the higher elevation sun and dry conditions, a white singlet would protect me from the sun instead of running shirtless, at least to start. </span><span style="background-color: white;">I also sported the Headsweats Super Duty Race Cap for protection from the sun's rays.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><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/-_-L_T7tKCfg/UBNgJCrlD_I/AAAAAAAAFjI/5yElJ52d41U/s1600/2012-07-22_00-08-11_562.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_-L_T7tKCfg/UBNgJCrlD_I/AAAAAAAAFjI/5yElJ52d41U/s320/2012-07-22_00-08-11_562.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Pearl Izumi Tail II shoes with Drymax socks, the perfect combo!</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I arrived just after 4:00 AM at the race start parking and had to get a quick shuttle to the Spooner Lake Recreation Area where the start/finish was. It was cool waiting at the start but luckily I had some extra layers on. By 5:00 AM it was time to go. The start was at the tree and off we went. I didn't recognize really any one except for maybe Matt Hart. Once we started I heard the runners talking so knew it was him. Everyone else was foreign to me which is kind of fun. The first mile you go out on a mostly flat dirt road and then hit the single track. I was in a pack of about 10 guys cruising along at a decent but not too fast pace. The trail was gradually going up but not too steep so most was quite runnable. I did have a headlamp on but most of those around me didn't. I'm glad I did have it for those few rocks under foot.</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://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2Bk2N2UFIBo/UBLpi29XUFI/AAAAAAAAFgU/G9u0YmC2bMM/s1600/Aspen+Groves.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/-2Bk2N2UFIBo/UBLpi29XUFI/AAAAAAAAFgU/G9u0YmC2bMM/s320/Aspen+Groves.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Running through the Aspen Groves</i></b></span></td></tr>
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The first aid station, Hobart, would be at mile 6. We arrived there in about 1 hour, right on schedule. All the aid stations on course were fabulous, some of the best I've seen. I wasn't needing much so just topped off the bottle, grabbed a quick snack and on I went. I think I was running in 3rd at that point. Jon Robinson had taken off and was leading. Matt and I had been going back and forth a bit but were close by and Victor Ballesteros was close by too. Next up was the Tunnel Creek Aid Station, 5 miles ahead. Once out of Hobart we started climbing in elevation and the views suddenly opened up. <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/-QN8s4dYe_wo/UBLjXdwwy_I/AAAAAAAAFfo/2b7Uc-6JZ7I/s1600/Marlette+Lake.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/-QN8s4dYe_wo/UBLjXdwwy_I/AAAAAAAAFfo/2b7Uc-6JZ7I/s320/Marlette+Lake.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Marlette Lake</i></b></span></td></tr>
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This was why I was there, VIEWS! We continued to climb but nothing too steep. The trails were buffed out compared to the typical east coast standards of rocks and roots. But there was a lot of fine grit and sand to get in your shoes. Soon we arrived at Tunnel Creek, just under 2 hours and again right on schedule. Jon was far ahead and Matt was just in front of me. I didn't see anyone else behind but knew they weren't far behind. I did a quick stop at the aid station and dropped off my light and refueled with some Ultra drink to check it out. The next 3 miles would be a downhill to I think the lowest point of the course and then 3 miles back up to Tunnel Creek. I knew Matt was fast on the downhill so I let him go. Typical me, with the short legs I don't get the turnover on the downs although I can hold my own, but it's the long uphills were I typically excel over time. At the bottom of this loop was the Red House Aid Station and the only water/mud to be found on the entire course which was minimal.<br />
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<table align="center" 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/-oI63v8B6dGE/UBLlSUmnByI/AAAAAAAAFf4/o6mpwsnKguU/s1600/Red+House.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oI63v8B6dGE/UBLlSUmnByI/AAAAAAAAFf4/o6mpwsnKguU/s320/Red+House.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Red House Aid Station site</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Coming out of Red House, Aaron caught up and we ran together out of the loop. Near the end we also caught back up with Matt and Jon was still out of site ahead. We returned to Tunnel Creek and this time I grabbed my drop bag and reloaded with electrolyte pills and GU and a refreshing of Body Glide. It was starting to get warm now too so I ditched my shirt. I also grabbed another hand held bottle trying to be smart for once. After a short 3 mile climb to the Bull Wheel Aid Station there would be a longer 9 mile stretch without any aid stations. So I would have 44 ounces of fluid for that stretch.<br />
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It was another gradual climb out of Tunnel Creek and then rolling along to Bull Wheel but short. The views opened up even more, spectacular all along the ridge. Bull Wheel was a quick in and out station mainly to top off the fluids then it was some more up but a lot of gradual rolling though the higher elevations of the course. After a few miles of that it became a long section of fun single track heading down through the woods. Awesome mountain bike trails through this section with banked turns and fun downhills. And the trails were so soft on the feet even with 4+ miles of descending. Finally I could see the Tyrolean Village of Diamond Peak and before long I pulled into the Diamond Peak Aid Station, mile 30. Jon, Matt and Aaron were long gone and Victor was just behind at this point. I topped off, got some food to eat and headed up the 2 mile steep climb that I had visited a couple days earlier. I kept a slow but steady pace and just continued upwards knowing it would be about a 40 minute climb so no surprises. <span style="color: orange;">OMG</span> and <span style="color: orange;">WTF</span> were still there in the sand on the climb.<br />
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<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/-ZmT_eQ9TDes/UBLqD6JajhI/AAAAAAAAFgc/O0lmJ7y_DwA/s1600/diamondpeak.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/-ZmT_eQ9TDes/UBLqD6JajhI/AAAAAAAAFgc/O0lmJ7y_DwA/s320/diamondpeak.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Diamond Peak Climb</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Near the top, Victor was right there with me. From there it was a minute or 2 down to the Bull Wheel Aid Station again to top off and go. Tunnel Creek wasn't far from there and would be another drop bag stop so no need to stop for long at Bull Wheel. It was definitely getting warm in the sun so I had backed off a bit and was just doing my own thing and totally enjoying the scenery. At some point Victor had gone by too. What I discovered was that the views heading back or south from Bull Wheel were even more spectacular than going north earlier. The entire panorama of Lake Tahoe and the High Sierra's was right there in full view.<br />
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Shortly I was back at Tunnel Creek, mile 34 or so and running in 5th place. I got rid of my extra water bottle, refueled, ate some solid food, filled my Headsweats hat with ice to keep the core cooler and off I went. I was also making sure I had an s-cap every hour now with the warmer temps. Initially I was ok every 1 1/2 hours but then I resumed my 1/hour schedule. I was having difficulties swallowing those but was getting it done, barely. Lately the act of swallowing has been setting off a gag reflex which has in turn flipped my stomach into severe convulsions and the last attempt had started some of that. Too early for that and too far to go! Next up was Hobart Aid Station again. At Hobart they had a bar which I refrained from but they also had the best banana/strawberry/ensure smoothies. That looked perfect so I enjoyed a cold smoothie and immediately got an ice cream headache. It was worth it! After that it was a good climb up to the Snow Valley Aid Station, the high point of the course somewhere around 9,100 feet. Coming into Snow Valley were some of the most spectacular views of the course with high alpine meadows and full views of the lake and mountains. This is what it's all about. I was totally enjoying the run!<br />
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<table align="center" 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/-gqrH26gY9ng/UBLsYotdMtI/AAAAAAAAFgk/ku9ewQKiGGA/s1600/Lake+Tahoe+and+Marlette+Lake+from+Snow+Valley+Peak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gqrH26gY9ng/UBLsYotdMtI/AAAAAAAAFgk/ku9ewQKiGGA/s400/Lake+Tahoe+and+Marlette+Lake+from+Snow+Valley+Peak.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Views from Snow Valley Peak</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Arriving at Snow Valley I knew it was time for another electrolyte pill but thought I would try another way to get'r down. They had this great watermelon there so I opened the pill up and spread it on the watermelon. Not the best tasting but it worked, for the moment. I was able to fool the brain but I knew it wouldn't fool it again that way. Onward ho, the views just kept coming.<br />
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<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/-l49aSJ2HSC0/UBLtHjrz1ZI/AAAAAAAAFgs/4lx5OZ_onrM/s1600/From+Snow+Valley+Peak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l49aSJ2HSC0/UBLtHjrz1ZI/AAAAAAAAFgs/4lx5OZ_onrM/s400/From+Snow+Valley+Peak.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>More views from Snow Valley Peak</b></i></span></td></tr>
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It was mostly all downhill and rolling for the next hour plus. Once out of the alpine zone I was back in the trees running on soft switchbacks through the large pine groves. On this side of the mountain there was no mountain breeze and the sun was baking the trails to a point where it was like running through a furnace where the sun was shining through. By mile 48 I looked at my watch and knew it was time to attempt another electrolyte pill. If not, I stood the chance of major cramping which I've had way too much experience with. But this time I thought I would try another way. So I opened up the pill and poured it in my mouth. Not so bad I thought and then took a drink to wash it down. NOT GOOD! I felt like a humped over dog who just choked on a bone. Immediately I hunched over and puked. Oh that so sucked! After a few more bouts of hurling I put myself back together and started running again. Just 1.5 miles to the start/finish 50 mile aid station. Just around the corner I passed Victor. I guess he was having similar issues and wasn't looking so good. I kept moving along and got in to the 50 mile aid station in about 9 hours and 22 minutes, right on schedule and was still upbeat. I weighed in and had lost almost 6 pounds since the start, which for me is not bad but I also knew I had to start eating more. I grabbed my drop bag and replenished my electrolyte pills (not sure why since I couldn't swallow them) some fresh GU gels, a re coating of Body Glide and then munched on some great treats at the aid station. The highlight was the Popsicle! Nothing like a Popsicle on a hot day :) With some additional food in hand, I was on track again. The stomach was not feeling great and the heat of the day was upon me so I figured I would take the next mile slowly, eating and regrouping until I hit the single track trail again. In the sun it was HOT but in the shade, not as bad. Still the movement was slow. As I hit the single track moving any faster was not happening for any long periods of time. I was unable to ingest any fluids as the stomach was totally out of whack at this point. So I resorted to doing the walk/run mode. I was also dizzy and looking for a potential place to stop off trail to take a quick nap. I think the loss of electrolytes due to evaporation and puking was taking it's toll on me. I needed fluid and carbs soon but kept moving forward. So the trip up to the Hobart Aid Station was a long one. At one point I thought of retreating back to the mile 50 aid station to end it but then again I thought, no I can't do that. My next goal was Hobart where I knew they had some incredible smoothies. Basically I walked with a few bouts of running. I found a rusty stream at one point and stopped to stick my face in to cool down a bit and yes, it felt great. Finally I arrived at Hobart, beat up and in another world. I immediately found a seat under the tent and ordered up a smoothie. The devil was running wild at Hobart so I had to watch out.<br />
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<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/-KArdbAMOf9o/UBNOF0adDeI/AAAAAAAAFhM/nJsPUiguq64/s1600/Hobart+Devil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KArdbAMOf9o/UBNOF0adDeI/AAAAAAAAFhM/nJsPUiguq64/s320/Hobart+Devil.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>The Devil</i></b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Also it was the "Taste of Hell" as the sign boasted, another red flag! I thought of bailing out here but then thought that I could at least make it another 5 miles to Tunnel Creek and see how it goes. I had some food in, but will it stay??<br />
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<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/-XC_b7wvOfx8/UBNOYcat_mI/AAAAAAAAFhU/4u8z3bZ-r0I/s1600/Hobart+Hell.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/-XC_b7wvOfx8/UBNOYcat_mI/AAAAAAAAFhU/4u8z3bZ-r0I/s320/Hobart+Hell.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>A Taste Of Hell</i></b></span></td></tr>
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So after about 20-30 minutes of sucking down a couple of smoothies and some sprite I attempted to get up and go. Already a number of 100 milers had gone by which was discouraging... but that's the way it goes. So I refilled my water bottle and off I went. As I was leaving an angel appeared. But it was only a disguise. It was really the Devil.<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/-KWXoNYNEU-E/UBNPGtC79AI/AAAAAAAAFhg/jPzX-oXr-4Q/s1600/Angel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KWXoNYNEU-E/UBNPGtC79AI/AAAAAAAAFhg/jPzX-oXr-4Q/s320/Angel.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>The Devil in disguise</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">So onward I went, up the trail towards Tunnel Creek. I couldn't have been a 100 feet up the trail when the real angel appeared. I heard a voice from behind asking, "You don't have a pacer either?" I looked back and there she was, the real angel, Sofia from Argentina. She didn't have a pacer or any crew and wanted to run with me. I thanked the Gods above for this and let Sofia take charge and I followed behind:)</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aewZM-H2psw/UBNRDBUshZI/AAAAAAAAFho/UWHt4Ew99ck/s1600/Sofia-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aewZM-H2psw/UBNRDBUshZI/AAAAAAAAFho/UWHt4Ew99ck/s1600/Sofia-1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Sofia, my real angel leading the way.</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Sofia had done a lot of running in Argentina but not much in the states. <span style="background-color: white;">We chatted a bit and I found out she had a longer flight than me, nearly 24 hours to get there. She was determined to finish this race and was doing great. I hung behind climbing the hills and enjoying all the scenery as we crested the ridge to see the views of Lake Tahoe and beyond. I found I could </span><span style="background-color: white;">climb</span><span style="background-color: white;"> the hills fine but the downhills were hurting my stomach which was just a mess at this point and I had to back off. Slowly my angel disappeared and was gone. I was alone again in pain. The rest of the trip was long to Tunnel Creek. With about 2 miles to go I came across John from Canada who was also having a bad day due to sore knees and lack of training. He was still on lap one but had decided to backtrack to Tunnel Creek to bail out. We chatted a bit and he gave me some ginger to settle my stomach. I figured anything would be better than the way it was so I ate some ginger candies. This sort of backfired and came back to haunt me about a mile before Tunnel Creek. All of a sudden the stomach erupted and I found myself hunched over again. It was painful with the burning sensation of ginger coming back. Sorry but that's how it was. At that point I was ready to throw in the towel. I spent some time on the side of the trail </span><span style="background-color: white;">emptying</span><span style="background-color: white;"> my stomach and then moved on. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Finally</span><span style="background-color: white;"> I arrived at Tunnel Creek, mile 61.5 at around 6:30 PM. That last section from the 50 mile aid station to Tunnel Creek took me over 4 hours averaging a 23:11 pace. The first time around it took me under 2 hours averaging a 10:36 pace. I was doing the math in my head and was totally discouraged. I sat down and convinced myself I was done. Some of the aid station volunteers tried to get me going but I was mentally down and out. For me, the </span><span style="background-color: white;">suffer fest</span><span style="background-color: white;"> was over. I took the easy route and bailed, DNF, my first ever in a 100 miler. It sucked but I was convinced at the time it was the right thing to do. Dropping out and physically getting out of Tunnel Creek was no easy task either which I didn't realize until later. So I hung out for 4 hours waiting for a ride out. Meanwhile I had a half a beer, took a nap and was eating again after 2 hours, delicious grilled cheese sandwiches. The next 2 hours I was watching other runners coming through and helping when I could. I continued to eat, especially the hot quesadillas off the grill and hot tea which was just what the stomach needed. So why wasn't I back on trail running? Mentally I was done but why was I such a quitter? Never done that before. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Finally</span><span style="background-color: white;"> the truck had enough passengers to get out and I found out why it took so long. The jeep trail out was a 3 mile adventure in itself. We piled into a jacked up pickup and ventured down which took 25 minutes of maneuvering a steep </span><span style="background-color: white;">downhill</span><span style="background-color: white;"> trail full of rocks, sometimes bottoming out. Once we got to the road it was another 15 minutes to my car. Finally I got back to the room around midnight. I drank lots of fluids and off to bed. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-klUbgYC6EFs/UBNXbe5hl5I/AAAAAAAAFiI/ZbSwwCZixcY/s1600/2012-07-22_13-09-03_687.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-klUbgYC6EFs/UBNXbe5hl5I/AAAAAAAAFiI/ZbSwwCZixcY/s320/2012-07-22_13-09-03_687.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Duane Bliss Peak at 8658 ft.</i></b></span></td></tr>
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I didn't sleep great and was up early. I had a quick breakfast and was off to go run/hike on the Tahoe Rim Trail, south of Spooner Summit this time. I cruised up for 2+ miles then ventured off to bushwack up some other peak, the Duane Bliss Peak at 8658 feet. It was late morning and all I could think of was that runners were still on course, so why wasn't I? <br />
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<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/-PMFMTXV6j7M/UBNY_zbhD0I/AAAAAAAAFiQ/0_8lILcVCCE/s1600/2012-07-22_15-22-40_708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PMFMTXV6j7M/UBNY_zbhD0I/AAAAAAAAFiQ/0_8lILcVCCE/s320/2012-07-22_15-22-40_708.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Lake Tahoe</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Afterwards I drove down to Lake Tahoe and went for a swim. The water was so </span><span style="background-color: white;">refreshing</span><span style="background-color: white;"> and clean! I opened up my eyes under water and it was </span><span style="background-color: white;">like</span><span style="background-color: white;"> being in a swimming pool, the water was that clear. Again, I was thinking runners were still coming in. In the end Matt Hart took the win finishing in 19 hours 14 minutes followed by Aaron Heidt in his first 100 miler and Jon Robinson. For the women Claire Walton finished first in 21 hours 46 minutes followed by Candice Burt and Jenelle Potvin.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
Final results for the TRT 100 are posted <a href="http://www.ultralive.net/trt100/webcast.php" target="_blank">here</a>.
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">That night I celebrated my wonderful race success with some great local Mexican food and a visit with Jose Cuervo :) The next morning I was up, packed and out the door to go run up Mt. Rose before departing from Reno later that afternoon. While I was in the lobby checking out I met up with another runner who had successfully completed the Tahoe Rim 100 in 33+ hours. Pushpa was absolutely thrilled with her accomplishment in her first 100 mile attempt and rightly so. At that point I felt like such a looser.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9iNEkZwT__4/UBNb656EXFI/AAAAAAAAFiw/JgBqfR8p20A/s1600/2012-07-23_13-01-28_498.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9iNEkZwT__4/UBNb656EXFI/AAAAAAAAFiw/JgBqfR8p20A/s320/2012-07-23_13-01-28_498.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Alpine Meadows</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I arrived at the parking lot for Mt. Rose and met up with a young trail stud who had just come off the summit. I asked how long it took and he boasted about it being his fastest time ever, 2 hours to do the 10.6 mile round trip. The hiking guide books claimed it was a 6 hour trip unless you were in good shape, then maybe 4 hours. Needing to be at the airport around 4 PM I was a bit concerned. Mt Rose summits at 10,775 feet with the first half of the trail following along rolling alpine meadows and then climbs steeply to the summit. Anyway, I grabbed two bottles of water and off I went. The rolling trails were amazing through the alpine meadows with lush wild flowers everywhere. Once on the uphill climb the big black clouds appeared with thunderheads. With about a mile to go I heard thunder and the big black fingers coming off the thunderheads were rather close. I was completely above tree line with no place to hide. All I could think of was my old saying, "It's all about fate", if it's your time to go, then so be it. So I continued. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YHvjIQSwzfk/UBNcyzv8KWI/AAAAAAAAFi4/cApBW0bcpxA/s1600/2012-07-23_12-24-06_140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YHvjIQSwzfk/UBNcyzv8KWI/AAAAAAAAFi4/cApBW0bcpxA/s320/2012-07-23_12-24-06_140.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Thunderheads on top of Mt. Rose, 10,775 ft.</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I guess it wasn't my time yet as the </span><span style="background-color: white;">clouds</span><span style="background-color: white;"> parted on top and went east and west. I arrived on top in 1 hour and 8 minutes. After a little snack I was gone and headed back down. The rain kicked in a little and it actually felt good and the flowers along the way were just </span><span style="background-color: white;">amazing</span><span style="background-color: white;">. I had to stop to "smell the roses" and take pictures a number of times. Soon I was back to the car and checked my run time, 1 hour and 57 minutes, hmm, faster than the young buck. But I bailed out of a 100 miler </span><span style="background-color: white;">because</span><span style="background-color: white;"> I didn't feel good??? That was a problem. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">On the way back to the airport I had a little bit of time left so I hit the Grand Sierra Resort Casino to make my fortune.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ghiWMx0KFYs/UBNeIWAHobI/AAAAAAAAFjA/LstXUfhXypM/s1600/2012-07-23_15-48-03_740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ghiWMx0KFYs/UBNeIWAHobI/AAAAAAAAFjA/LstXUfhXypM/s320/2012-07-23_15-48-03_740.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Grand Sierra Resort Casino</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Being such a gambler I first tried out a big $1.00 doing the 5 cent black jack. I lost that quickly but figured out what to do. So I invested another $5. I worked on that for about 30 minutes first at the 5 cent level, then graduated to 10 cents then to 25 cents a hand. As time was clicking away, I decided to go for broke, all or nothing. It was nothing in the end. I lost all of that $5. Did I say I wasn't a big gambler?</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">It was a long flight home, starting around 5:00 PM in Reno on Monday. My plan to have a couple of late night cocktails prior to boarding my 11:30 PM flight from San Francisco to Newark so I could sleep backfired as all the restaurants in the San Francisco airport closed at 10 PM so I was wired for the flight back and barely slept. I finally arrived home in VT around 2:00 PM the next day. Just in time to unpack and head off to the Catamount Tuesday night 5k trail races on 2 hours of sleep. So Tuesday night, trail races, Wednesday night the mountain bike races. And more trail running on Thursday night. All this post race activity really bugged me. Here I am running and riding like I never raced yet I couldn't tough it out to finish a race I started. So I had some very low points, but I also had plenty of time to make adjustments, take a nap and eat. I wimped out, big! The real hero's are the ones who stuck it out and finished or put in their best effort to finish even if they ran out of time. Congrats to all those runners!! I had over 21 hours to complete 38 miles but I gave up. At that rate, I could have crawled on my belly to finish in time. If the second lap took twice as long as the first, I would have finished in 28.5 hours, still well below the 35 hour limit. This DNF really hit hard the more I thought about it. </span><span style="background-color: white;">No more of this quitting! </span><span style="background-color: white;">I run to have fun. It's where I find peace of mind and tranquility. If I place well in a race, that's just a bonus but I'm there to run through the woods, look at incredible views and share experiences with those who enjoy the same. <b>That's why I run! </b></span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><b><br /></b></span><br />
And congrats to all those you ran the VT 100 the same weekend! VT 100 final results can be found <a href="http://www.barttiming.com/summer/results12/vt100-12-1.htm" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">“<i>Life's real failure is when you do not realize how close you were to success when you gave up</i>.”</span></b></span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-40774217062841603912012-07-12T00:05:00.001-04:002012-07-12T13:02:21.470-04:00FINGER LAKES 50 MILE 2012 RACE REPORT<span style="background-color: white;">Hector, NY July 30, 2012</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Th</span><span style="background-color: white;">e </span><span style="background-color: white;">weekend of June 30th I returned to run the Finger Lakes 50 Mile Trail Run. A race I discovered by accident in 2007 and have been returning ever since. The RD Chris Reynolds and her husband Joe put on a fabulous race every year. This year it was held a bit earlier than usual, on June 30, 2012 which was right on for my summer racing schedule.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2lX9kUVrRi8/T_EZqZkcGwI/AAAAAAAAFco/8S9U605s3wg/s1600/Joe+and+Chris+Reynolds.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2lX9kUVrRi8/T_EZqZkcGwI/AAAAAAAAFco/8S9U605s3wg/s320/Joe+and+Chris+Reynolds.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Joe and Chris at the Start Line</i></span></td></tr>
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This year for the first time I was on the waiting list for the Finger Lakes 50. The sign of the times, register early and plan ahead. Not so easy to do in the middle of the winter but a necessity these days. With about a month to go, I finally made the list of runners. As usual, this 50 miler is a trainer for an upcoming 100 miler 2-3 weeks later. This year it's a prep for the Tahoe Rim 100 to be held on July 21st.<br />
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Preparation for the race this year was not the best. Yes I had the running miles in but sometimes I take for granted the 50 mile distance. For the 2 weeks leading up to the race I was involved in some remodeling doing roof demolition and installation in the 90 degree hot temps. Thursday before the race I was on a roof for 8 hours in the hot sun and limped off the roof, only to go home to try to get some miles in. So it goes. Friday was the long drive (6 hours) to the Finger Lakes which got me there by nightfall. Plenty of time to sleep although I chatted with some of the other racers and volunteers until late into the night as I was still wired from the drive. I had a great night sleep although short, sleeping in Hotel Ford and was up by 5:00 AM to appreciate the fine dining at race registration. I quickly got my race gear ready, my drop bag organized for the loop and before you knew it, it was time to run.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NmLwAGmGv_g/T_4_ntBNsOI/AAAAAAAAFd0/k55XX_HbVcs/s1600/DSC05971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NmLwAGmGv_g/T_4_ntBNsOI/AAAAAAAAFd0/k55XX_HbVcs/s320/DSC05971.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>The Start</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">At the start line I didn't recognize too many runners but figured I would meet them as we dashed down the road. And so I did. By the time we entered the trail, I was in front with Jeff Powers and Mark Manz following along. Shortly into the trail section I stumbled and Jeff and Mark took over the lead which was fine with me. I much rather follow than lead at this point in the race. So for most of the first lap it was the three of us cruising along. The trails were in great shape, dryer than usual. The single track was fun to run, nothing that </span><span style="background-color: white;">technical</span><span style="background-color: white;">. No issues with cows either this year with most of the field gates wide open so no issues with opening and closing of the gates or herds of bulls running through the fields.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V0D8RYFBBvM/T_urEDpwWyI/AAAAAAAAFc4/BnFocp2FLjw/s1600/IMG_4594.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V0D8RYFBBvM/T_urEDpwWyI/AAAAAAAAFc4/BnFocp2FLjw/s320/IMG_4594.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Running behind Jeff and Mark in one of the cow meadows.</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I would let Jeff and Mark get away on the wide open stretches but would catch them on more technical downhills or at aid stations as I had enough provisions to bypass the aid stations. Near the end of the first loop I was looking at the times and figured we were going out way too fast for a 50 miler, especially with the heat, and decided to back off a bit. In my mind I knew each lap would get slower with the day getting warmer and in order to get in at a reasonable time, it was time to back off. Arriving back at the start/finish after lap one, I was about 2 minutes behind Jeff and Mark. I was fine with that and was now just running my own race. The second lap I was pretty much on my own. I refueled at the beginning of the Loop with fresh GU Brew, GU gels and a refreshing of Body Glide and electrolyte pills and continued on. Lap 2 was starting to heat up some but not too bad. In trying to keep up on my electrolytes, I was having a hard time swallowing my electrolyte pills. I was trying a new kind which were much larger. As it was, I usually develop a gag reflex at some point with the smaller pills but with these new larger pills I was developing the gag reflex much earlier. By the middle of the second lap, I was in serious trouble swallowing the electrolyte pills. And by attempting to swallow them, I had become nauseous. Not a good thing. I was still able to hold down some coke at the aid stations and gels but the stomach was really starting to swell and hurt.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IVK2rrDRkc8/T_46QediZBI/AAAAAAAAFdE/PqBf0sJkddY/s1600/IMG_445852.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="167" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IVK2rrDRkc8/T_46QediZBI/AAAAAAAAFdE/PqBf0sJkddY/s320/IMG_445852.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>A quiet day for the cows.</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">I made it through the second lap way slower than lap one not </span><span style="background-color: white;">feeling</span><span style="background-color: white;"> good and was seriously thinking about bailing out after the 50K distance, which is perfectly legal in this race. I had even justified running more miles on Sunday to get in my weekly miles but then thought, how can I run a 100 miler 3 weeks later if I can't even run a 50 miler now?? Plus the other 2 guys ahead of me had dropped at 50K leaving me in the lead. So no way could I just quit now. I had to keep moving forward hoping no one else would pursue and push ahead.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oPPXpIqoSOs/T_46lSB1qmI/AAAAAAAAFdM/PQkKjh07dQc/s1600/IMG_5178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oPPXpIqoSOs/T_46lSB1qmI/AAAAAAAAFdM/PQkKjh07dQc/s320/IMG_5178.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>The Trails were in great shape this year. Zsuzsanna running along.</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Lap 3</span><span style="background-color: white;"> was really starting to heat up with temps nearing 90 degrees. I was running alone and it wasn't long before the stomach fully </span><span style="background-color: white;">erupted</span><span style="background-color: white;">. I had attempted to down another electrolyte pill and that was all that was needed. It didn't go down and now I was in puke mode. Not just dry heaves either but the full on AJ puke fest. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Lovely</span><span style="background-color: white;">! The only positive was afterwards I felt much better and could run again. I thought about Jeff and Mark and cursed them out for bailing at 50K thinking I would have been happy to do that if they hadn't. For lap 3 it became the run/walk/puke for 3 hours, almost an hour slower than lap one. I tried many times to eat and drink but was unsuccessful. And further attempts to swallow electrolyte pills only caused further </span><span style="background-color: white;">eruptions</span><span style="background-color: white;">. So I was on my own, running in a fog. I even tried to fool the brain by swishing liquid in my mouth and spitting it out but it didn't work. </span><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/-xuso2Xv8e8k/T_47AvIoGgI/AAAAAAAAFdU/rb24wJdUhzE/s1600/IMG_5477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xuso2Xv8e8k/T_47AvIoGgI/AAAAAAAAFdU/rb24wJdUhzE/s320/IMG_5477.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Zeke enjoying the trails.</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Finally I arrived at the start finish after lap 3 and only had the 1/2 mile "baby loop" to run. I even did the run/walk here. I didn't see anyone nearby so figured why not. I went by the pond again, thinking about a swim but managed to motivate myself to the finish line to end this misery. As soon as I crossed the line, the stars had come out but it was still day light. I quickly found a nice spot to lie down before I was involuntarily placed there. This was good! After a short rest and some liquid I went back to the pond for a cool down swim which felt great! So the win this day was not pretty and came down to me outlasting the competition. Not the best approach to take but for this year it seemed to work.</span><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/-U70TOEY8vM8/T_48HfyKlQI/AAAAAAAAFdc/z_PIgylJmNY/s1600/Finish+Line+FL50.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U70TOEY8vM8/T_48HfyKlQI/AAAAAAAAFdc/z_PIgylJmNY/s320/Finish+Line+FL50.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Dead body pose at the finish, I do it well!</i></span></td></tr>
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This was another good learning experience for me. Don't take 50 milers for granted, especially when the temps are getting towards the 90's. And get my electrolytes and nutrition back on track.<br />
<br />
The heat of the day caused many 50 milers to drop down to 50K but there were still some great results especially for the women. Laura Swift can in as first 50 mile woman of the day and 2nd overall setting a new course record on the newer course. And 2nd woman, third overall was Jamie Kyei-Frimpong. First master male was John Fegyveresi who will be running Badwater this year. And first master woman was Nancy Kleinrock finishing 5th overall with a new masters course record as well. Full results can be found <a href="http://www.coolrunning.com/results/12/ny/Jun30_Finger_set1.shtml" target="_blank">here</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/-Eq0CU8gEiOY/T_4-DpprYlI/AAAAAAAAFdk/Iof7-szDLTg/s1600/me+and+the+girls.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Eq0CU8gEiOY/T_4-DpprYlI/AAAAAAAAFdk/Iof7-szDLTg/s320/me+and+the+girls.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Jack with Laura and Jamie.</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">There was a funny article in the Ithaca Journal regarding this race:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"> </span><i style="background-color: white;">Finger Lakes 50s: Running into all kinds of interesting people</i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Raramuri -- the Running People. Christopher McDougall's book,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"Born to Run" tells the fascinating story of Mexico's canyon dwellers</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>who run hundreds of miles as a way of life. I've never surpassed 26.2</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>miles and have only ventured as far into Mexico as the mountains of</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Rumorosa. So why are the Raramuri dwelling in my mind?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Blame it on the Finger Lakes Fifties, held in Hector's National Forest.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Blame it on 54-year-old Jack Pilla from Vermont, whose 7:55 50-mile</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>championship has me ruminating. At the finish line, Pilla sprawled on</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>the ground with closed eyes and a smile. Crinkly lined blue eyes</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>opened as friends harassed him: "showing your age, Jack?" From the</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>ground he murmured, "That was an ugly win."</i></div>
<i><br /></i><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/-UCDHhZkPZdk/T_5AVSMlcfI/AAAAAAAAFd8/sLucBv8TsQI/s1600/50+mile+award.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UCDHhZkPZdk/T_5AVSMlcfI/AAAAAAAAFd8/sLucBv8TsQI/s320/50+mile+award.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>The 50 Mile Award and a Growler of Beer :)</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><br /></i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">My shoes and socks clearly outlasted me on this day. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">The Pearl Izumi Trail II's were awesome as well as the Drymax socks. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">The Headsweats Super Duty Cap was great for fending off those pesky deer flies.</span></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/-dyADnVvqN2k/T_5ApVwPLaI/AAAAAAAAFeE/j3RIVbo_mnI/s1600/DSC06107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dyADnVvqN2k/T_5ApVwPLaI/AAAAAAAAFeE/j3RIVbo_mnI/s320/DSC06107.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>The Gear<br /></i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was pretty much toast after the race, much more than usual. Totally dehydrated and lacking other nutrients in my body. It would take hours before I could get some solid food down and get my head back on straight. While driving home after the race I discovered an ice cream shop that had lemonade slushies, excellent recovery drink! Later on in Oneonta I was able to get down a couple of slices of plain cheese pizza. A couple hours later, an ice cream shake was the ticket. By the time I got home, all was feeling much better.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Next up, July 21st, <a href="http://www.tahoemtnmilers.org/trter/TRTevent-details.html" target="_blank">Tahoe Rim 100</a> in Nevada :)</div>
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<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">“Success seems to be largely a matter of hanging on </span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">after others have let go.”</span></i></b></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-74494290612993637852012-05-20T23:09:00.001-04:002012-05-25T10:19:50.859-04:00MASSANUTTEN MOUNTAIN TRAILS 100 MILE RUN 2012 Race Report<h3>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;">May 12, 2012</span></span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: red;">....or in short the MMT 100 (aka toe breaker 100). </span><span style="font-size: small;">Not really sure why I decided to run this race except for the fact that I didn't make the lottery pick for Western States again or Hardrock so Bob Ayers and I decided to enter the MMT 100 and both of us got in. For me a new race, for Bob another try to better his previous record. Road Trip!</span></h3>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rsuIueCHRqQ/T7cS8oWUkvI/AAAAAAAAFZk/cJhcrpoT0XY/s1600/Course+Profile.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rsuIueCHRqQ/T7cS8oWUkvI/AAAAAAAAFZk/cJhcrpoT0XY/s400/Course+Profile.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
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Training for an early season 100 miler is usually a challenge. That means running many miles throughout the winter. Luckily in VT this year we had no winter so it was not such a big issue due to frigid running conditions. Then the mental aspect, am I ready to run 100 miles in early May? I did a 100K in January, a 50 mile in February, a 50K in April and many other long runs throughout in preparation. I also did my usual 500 in 30 during peak training time. That's 500 miles in 30 days concluding 3 weeks before race day. To make it more of a challenge were a few races thrown in so the final week of those 30 days was 135 miles. I remember those last few miles of the 135 mile week doing mile long hill repeats ready to start walking when I bumped into Norm Larson just heading out for a Sunday Run. Norm is one of the fastest in the country for marathon and below distances for us 50 year olds. So with Norm there, I was forced to move my butt a bit faster up this mile long hill and then another mile or two until I was done for the week. Afterwards I hit a 90 minute session of bikram yoga in 105 degrees which totally kicked my butt. I was so wiped out that I went home and took a nap. Yes, I was finally tired out but not hurt, there's that fine line. I never know if this training plan is totally insane or if this is what it takes to keep up with he young-ins. (And I have yet to try this on any of my running clients). Only time would tell if this was good...or not.</div>
<br />
Taper time prior to MMT 100. Week one didn't go so well, I still logged near 90 miles. I guess that is tapering after 135 miles. The following week ended with what was supposed to be an easy 20 mile run a week before MMT. The easy 20 mile run started out with good intentions but I got in a funk and decided to run uphill for 11 miles on the Long Trail and then 11 miles downhill which turned into a 6 hour adventure tracking moose poop and running through snow and of course with only 20 ounces of fluid and 2 GU gels. Not the usual idea of tapering the week before a 100 mile race. But got her done in any event. Now it was race week. Time to prepare for race day.<br />
<br />
I still hadn't done much research on the MMT race so finally looked into the course a bit. Yes it looked hilly and rocky. I quickly looked at the splits and came up with sort of a game plan, to be implemented later in the week, which meant the night before the race. To be determined! Shoes, I was waiting for the new Pearl Izumi SyncroFuel Trail II's which arrived Tuesday afternoon and looked sweet!<br />
<br />
Bob and I starting our adventure driving down Thursday afternoon for a 2 day journey to break up the 10 hour trip. First leg getting us to northern PA. We went down in the F-150 and made it to somewhere near Elk Mtn. in PA. Bob noticed an official camping sign so we headed in that direction. A few miles off the beaten path and we arrived at the Shady Rest Campground. Bob was in heaven as the owner was a hunter. He and Bob would've chatted all night long about deer and turkey hunting but it was getting dark so I figured it was time to set up camp. For me, park the F-150 hotel, for Bob, setting up the tent. The temps were already dropping with the sun setting. Bob quickly set up the tent as I sat back and enjoyed a little R and R with a fresh Bud. <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/-BTIXx_IX5B4/T7cTq6nX8HI/AAAAAAAAFZ0/3GfGkFIlJOk/s1600/Bob+at+the+Shady+Rest+Campground.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BTIXx_IX5B4/T7cTq6nX8HI/AAAAAAAAFZ0/3GfGkFIlJOk/s320/Bob+at+the+Shady+Rest+Campground.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Bob enjoying a cold one.</i></span></td></tr>
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Bob and I had a pre-pre race dinner and then it was time for bed as temps were dropping even more. The plan was to sleep until at least sunrise, have some breakfast and get on the road for another 5 hours of driving. The night proved to be a challenge. I neglected to bring the down comforter and Bob forgot the warmer sleeping bag. By dawn, there was frost on the ground. Throughout the night we both had a time with the cold. For me, luckily I brought a down jacket and wore that to stay warm. Once the core was warm enough, I was de-layering in the night. Bob remained in the fetal position to keep warm and was wishing Jen was there to keep him warm. No he didn't admit that but I could tell. Come morning the owner of the campground came by to show Bob his prize turkey from that morning's hunt. I could sense that Bob was a bit jealous and wished he could have been out there too. Shortly afterwards, we both enjoyed the hot showers and hit the road for another 5 hours.<br />
<br />
Finally in Fort Valley, VA. We arrived at the start finish area/campsite and set ourselves up. For me, the F-150 hotel was ready to go. For Bob, a few extra minutes setting up his tent. Before long it was time for the race briefing. Bob had already set up his drop bags and was ready to go. For me, I still hadn't really thought it out. I had all kinds of provision with me but it was a matter of figuring out what and where during the race. I finally ran out of time with half thought out drop bags and we went over for the race briefing.<br />
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<table align="center" 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/-t7wFW7TMU2g/T7cT7oVFCjI/AAAAAAAAFZ8/DqIH7fXBnlw/s1600/Start+Finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t7wFW7TMU2g/T7cT7oVFCjI/AAAAAAAAFZ8/DqIH7fXBnlw/s320/Start+Finish.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Start/Finish of the MMT 100</i></span></td></tr>
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At the briefing I reconnected with ultra legend and friend Todd Walker. As a veteran of this course and winner in 2008, Todd offered some great MMT advice. RD Kevin Sayers gave a quick briefing along with tips and minor course descriptions to help us get through the course along with a few guest speakers. After the briefing dinner began. Trying to get myself organized I bypassed dinner for the moment to focus and finish up with my drop bags. In all, I put together 3 drop bags that would hopfully get me through the race with adequate supplies and extras just in case. I dropped off my bags at the tent and then enjoyed some great vegetarian pasta dishes along with desserts, my favorite. With all the traveling and preparations, I still needed to get a run in so after woofing down the pasta, Bob and I went out for an easy run around the start and finish of the course. We were both sucking wind with bellies full of pasta but we got'r done. Shortly thereafter it was getting dark and time to retire for the evening with a plan to get up at 3:00 AM for the 4:00 AM start.<br />
<br />
3:00 AM time to get up! I was sleeping so good, I hate to get up in the middle of the night. Temps were in the low 40's, chilly but not too bad. I got myself dressed including arm warmers and gloves, had a banana, half a bagel with peanut butter and Bob had the hot water boiling for my hot cup of tea. Finally it was time to head over to the start. One last trip to the port-o-let and I was ready to go. The start was actually quite reasonable without the occasional 5k race pace fast start. Right off we had a 4 mile gradual uphill on the road before we hit the trail uphills. I was running close to the front with Bob, Todd, Jason Lantz, Nick Pedatella and some others. Finally off the road we hit the rocky trails and yes, they were rocky and up we 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://1.bp.blogspot.com/-crwQDDmQVC4/T7cenKx7nCI/AAAAAAAAFaI/OwjaJV0b5fs/s1600/Trail+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-crwQDDmQVC4/T7cenKx7nCI/AAAAAAAAFaI/OwjaJV0b5fs/s320/Trail+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Rocky Trails</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Nick was blazing the path with myself right behind. And directly behind me the trail was lined up with others shining their headlamps to see the way over the rocks. The trail seemed to go uphill forever, a familiar pattern that I would discover later on. At one point Dan Barger took the lead and blasted by all of us and out of sight. I was content running in a pack with Nick and Jason for quite a while. Jason and I have spent many miles together and in 2009 ran much of the VT 100 together and some of the Leadville 100 in 2010. Nick was at UTMB last year and I never had the chance to meet him there so this was a treat to run and chat with Nick. Funny thing, Nick is about the age of my daughter. Still, on the trail, age doesn't matter and we are all equal and just out there running. The three of us came into Edinburg Gap at mile 12 and quickly out. I was using a pack with a hydration bag to get me to mile 20 so I didn't require any stopping to refuel but I did remove the gloves and arm warmers as the temps were rising. After another climb, there was really nice runnable terrain. Before long, we passed by Dan Barger standing on the side of the trail. Not sure what was going on but it didn't look good. Nick was slightly ahead with Jason and myself following along. For a second I lost concentration and next thing I was flying through the air. I did a massive tuck and roll on the side of the trail I could hear Jason yelling back to see if I was ok. Best thing to do is to keep moving or it will hurt more. The legs were fine but my elbow and hand hurt. No need to stop. A few miles later I noticed blood all over my hand and traced it back to my finger which had a large gash in it. Over time the blood thickened enough so I glued back the hunk of skin that was flopping around. No big deal. At mile 20, Woodstock Aid Station the three of us arrived together again. I had a drop bag and got rid of my hydration pack and shirt and picked up my waist pack. I quickly filled up with water to add to my GU Brew drink mix, grabbed my GU gels and electrolyte pills and was ready to head out when one of the volunteers stopped me to pick off some ticks from my legs. I'm glad they were watching. <br />
<table align="center" 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/-xjcJg73cixs/T7mryiPH0jI/AAAAAAAAFcI/ZLR8Sfqt42Q/s1600/deer-tick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="138" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xjcJg73cixs/T7mryiPH0jI/AAAAAAAAFcI/ZLR8Sfqt42Q/s200/deer-tick.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deer Tick</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
The next section had some excellent single track and no major climbs that I recall. At mile 26 we pulled into Powell's Fort with Nick in the lead, Jason next and myself not far behind. At that point I realized I screwed up with my drink mixes. I didn't have another drop bag until mile 41 and was forced to drink straight water instead of the much needed GU Brew with electrolytes and extra sodium. I picked off some more ticks and then headed out. There was a good climb out of Powell's and then down to Elizabeth Furnace at mile 33. Still with no drink mix, I had to continue with water only. They had Gatorade but it doesn't usually agree with my stomach. Luckily I had enough electrolyte pills to keep me going. Nick was slightly ahead at this point but Jason and I were still running together. Out of Elizabeth Furnace was another climb and then downhill to Shawl Gap. Again more straight water for me. I was concerned on how this might affect me later in the race, especially since the temps were heating up. After a short road section Jason and I arrived at Veach Gap, mile 41.<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/-3lYhXhbPqiI/T7mf2-e9LgI/AAAAAAAAFa0/D4fgrpjo4o0/s1600/Jack+and+Jason+on+Veach+Gap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3lYhXhbPqiI/T7mf2-e9LgI/AAAAAAAAFa0/D4fgrpjo4o0/s320/Jack+and+Jason+on+Veach+Gap.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Jack and Jason at Veach Gap.</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I had a drop bag at Veach and was finally able to refuel with my GU Brew drink with 2 x's the sodium, grab some more GU gels and grab an extra hand held bottle as there were some long sections coming up without aid stations. One treat at the aid station that I discovered, popsicles. They were incredible! I also grabbed a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and off I went for the next major climb out. Nick was about 4 minutes ahead and Jason was in and out of the aid station so I was on my own heading up the next climb. It was also 9 miles to the next aid station and the heat was starting to kick in. The climb out seemed to go on forever and somewhere along the way, Adam Lint passed by looking strong. I was starting to get twinges in my legs from cramps so I had to back off a bit. On a steep downhill section my calf cramped and totally seized up which stopped me dead. Not good! I tried to get another electrolyte pill down but then the gag re-flux kicked in and I almost puked. Finally out of desperation I opened up the electrolyte capsule and poured it on my tongue. The taste was disgusting and it almost made me puke but I held it in. Finally after a long downhill I arrived at Indian Grave. After that it was 4 miles of mostly uneventful road to get to the next aid station, Habron Gap. From there it was another big climb out and would be another 2 hours plus before the next aid station. This section was probably the low point for me. I filled up one bottle with water and the other with Gatorade hoping to replenish some of the lost electrolytes. Soon I rediscovered my memories of Gatorade. It tasted like an old band aid and had me on the fence of puking. Little by little I would rotate between the water and the Gatorade as I knew I needed more than water. Along this section I also developed a sour stomach to the gels so I couldn't get any calories in except at the aid stations. James Blandford passed by looking strong. He was running scared of this section as he had DNF'd just after this section last year so he was on a mission to keep on moving, which he did. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q96OKrQBDgo/T7mgIovPbnI/AAAAAAAAFa8/Df6MEgejyZo/s1600/Trail+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/-q96OKrQBDgo/T7mgIovPbnI/AAAAAAAAFa8/Df6MEgejyZo/s320/Trail+5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>More Rocks</i></span></td></tr>
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Camp Roosevelt was the next aid station at mile 64. I ate some food, replenished the water and off I went. Another big climb out and then downhill. After almost 6 miles it was the Gap Creek Aid Station. I did have a drop bag there so I could finally replenish my bottles with some GU Brew. The best thing here again were the popsicles. A different variety from the previous popsicle station and I think I had three along with some noodles as I was a bit dizzy and knew I needed food. At this point I also grabbed the provisions for running at night. I put on a shirt, grabbed my headlamp and prepared for another climb as I headed out. Once on top of the ridge it was a really nice run for miles. There were some great views looking out and the temps were starting to drop. I was feeling better with good drink and food in the belly and only 30 or so miles to go. The end of this section had a rather steep road downhill which ended at the Visitor Center aid station, mile 78. I fueled up with real food, and did manage to have one GU Brew tab so I replenished one bottle with water, the other with the GU Fizz.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EJCV9IPMUF0/T7mgeIIzh7I/AAAAAAAAFbE/YMPQFU15hcs/s1600/Jack+at+Visitor+Center+eating.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/-EJCV9IPMUF0/T7mgeIIzh7I/AAAAAAAAFbE/YMPQFU15hcs/s320/Jack+at+Visitor+Center+eating.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Munching on some food at the Visitor Center</i></span></td></tr>
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Out on the Stonewall Jackson historic trail for a bit then up, up and up to Bird Knob, mile 81.6. Along this section I managed to pass by Adam Lint who was having some difficulties. After Bird Knob it was a slight down hill then up, down, up and down to the Picnic Area, mile 88. I don't remember much here as it was now dark. I do know I was back to straight water again but was able to swallow an electrolyte pill again which was good as cramping twinges in the thighs were starting to occur. From here it would be another 2 hours until the next aid station. Next up, Gap Creek, mile 96.8. I had a drop bag here as it was the same aid station as mile 70 but figured it was only about 4 miles to the finish. I grabbed a quick snack, replenished my water supply and off I went for the next climb. I knew how long this climb was as it was a repeat of earlier but then at the top I would go straight and head to the finish. At the top of the ridge there was a pie plate showing mile 98, how sweet I thought, only 3 miles to go. It was just after midnight. Well those "3" miles turned out to be the longest 3 miles I've ever run. I was probably a good 2 plus miles of rolling downhill on technical rocky terrain. Finally I popped out on the road. I remembered they talked about how we run downhill on the road. I didn't see any arrows on the road showing direction and was a little confused so I headed down the road. I figured it could only be a mile or so but after a mile, 2 miles, maybe 3 miles I was getting concerned. Did I go in the right direction? Am I running downhill or am I running uphill? In the middle of the night after 100 plus miles the mind starts to look at things differently. I followed the mailbox numbers on the few scattered homes and realized the numbers where increasing, not good. Ever once in a while I would see a reflective marking but was I going in the right direction. I started thinking about going back to where I came out of the woods and looking at my watch, I certainly had more that covered the 3 miles. Finally out of desperation, I asked the gods above for a sign. No sooner, I came around the corner and saw the turnoff for the finish all lit up. Nice!!! It still took a bit of time to meander to the finish but I knew the end was near. I crossed the finish line and was done at just past 1:00 in the morning. <br />
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At the finish I sat down and a volunteer brought me some coke to sip on. One sip and I stood right up looking for a place to puke. The stomach said not now to food or drink and was ready to purge. A volunteer brought over a 33 gallon barrel and I grabbed both sides. I felt like fellow ultra runner Joe Kulak from the classic North Face ads. I asked the volunteers if they wanted to get a picture of me but they didn't seem as excited as I was. After the stomach calmed down, I sat back down and wanted to see Bob come in and figured he was right behind me. Kevin Sayers then informed me that Bob had dropped after Camp Roosevelt at mile 64. I went over to the tent to check up on Bob hoping that this wasn't a repeat of 2 years ago which put Bob in the hospital with a broken toe. Luckily Bob was in the the tent. Apparently a cold kicked in half way through which really bothered his breathing so he did the smart thing and bailed. He'll be back!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DpCMt6tAxuQ/T7mptg3Vk0I/AAAAAAAAFb4/fCWLQV5I4hM/s1600/Solo+Division+Award.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="215" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DpCMt6tAxuQ/T7mptg3Vk0I/AAAAAAAAFb4/fCWLQV5I4hM/s400/Solo+Division+Award.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Solo Division Award</i></span></td></tr>
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In the end, I came in fourth place overall with a time of 21:07:36. I won my age group and set a new age group record by over 3 hours.<br />
But the best was I won the Solo Division formerly called the "Jackson Division",(no crew, no pacer, no headphones). I renamed it the "I Don't Need No Stinkin Help" Award. A personal victory for me :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K_8doTA1H0I/T7mXfpHvOLI/AAAAAAAAFag/JhHJWIrkTJU/s1600/Jason+and+company.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="226" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K_8doTA1H0I/T7mXfpHvOLI/AAAAAAAAFag/JhHJWIrkTJU/s320/Jason+and+company.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Overall Winner of MMT 100 Jason Lantz (center)</i></span></td></tr>
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Jason managed to run strong throughout and passed Nick. He took the overall win and finished in a time of 19:33:18. Nick was second with a time of 20:19:10. Third went to James Blandford with a time of 20:31:12. For the women, Eva Pastalkova defended her title with a time of 22:01:54 and won the women's solo division.<br />
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Summary: For me I screwed up with my nutrition. If I only had planned it out better I would have realized that just a couple more aid station drop bags with fluids would have helped. Still, in any 100 you have highs and lows and as such I had to make adjustments. My legs felt great throughout the race so the high mileage training did help. Also for the last 2 months I've been going to bikram yoga which definitely helped me get through the heat. The rocks seemed no different than the trails I run on in the Green and White Mountains so a fun course. Overall I was pleased. The success of a race for me is more about how I feel at the end and how much I enjoyed the run rather than the overall placement. So far, recovery has been going well.<br />
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<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/-RSzEN6l57E8/T7mUQvLqB1I/AAAAAAAAFaU/D3dYm6ojj3A/s1600/Pearl+Izumi+SyncroFuel+Trail+II.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RSzEN6l57E8/T7mUQvLqB1I/AAAAAAAAFaU/D3dYm6ojj3A/s320/Pearl+Izumi+SyncroFuel+Trail+II.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Pearl Izumi SyncroFuel Trail II</i></span></td></tr>
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The Gear: The <b>Pearl Izumi</b> SyncroFuel Trail II's were the perfect shoe for the conditions. I was a little nervous heading into a 100 miler with a new shoe and no break in miles. But I was totally impressed with this shoe. Basically took it out of the box and ran 100 miles in total comfort. No blisters at all and plenty of cush to absorb the rocky terrain and still at a reasonably light weight. And superb traction on the rocks.<br />
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I also wore the Pearl Izumi Fly shorts in total comfort and the short sleeve tech shirt early morning and late night.<br />
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The <b>DryMax Socks</b> once again did the job. For this race I chose the lightweight hiker for a little bit more cushion to absorb the rocks. And again, total comfort and no blisters :)<br />
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When I was on board, I drank the <b>GU</b> Brew. Early on it was the Orange flavor with some liquid calories and electrolytes. For the mid day heat it was the GU Brew with 2x's the sodium. And the surprise was the refreshing taste of the GU Brew electrolyte tablets. The GU gels as usual for some additional calories until the stomach went sour.<br />
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The <b>Headsweats</b> Super Duty Race Cap with the extra wide COOLMAX sweatband was perfect for the warm conditions.<br />
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Once night set in I tried out a new lighting system by <b>Light & Motion</b>. I used the Solite. With three settings I was able to work the rechargeable battery to the max. For slower climbing the low setting was great. For most downhills I went to the medium setting. And for the most technical I turned up to high with 150 lumens.<br />
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One final note, it was a long ride back home. I started off the drive and within 30 minutes I was tired. I broke out a 5 hour energy drink. I got this at a race last year but have been afraid to drink it. I thought this would help. First off, the taste was horrible and with an already sour stomach, it took about 15 minutes to finish this. I had a short spell of I think I'm awake and then a major crash occurred. I was toast and Bob had to take over so I could sleep. Thankfully Bob did most of the driving to get us home with some great stories.<br />
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<b><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: large;"><i>Don't aim for success if you want it; just do what you love and believe in, and it will come naturally.</i></span></b></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-10577942548772577702012-04-18T14:33:00.001-04:002012-04-18T22:53:32.698-04:00Traprock 50K 2012 Race Report<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/-PfKouzTLjic/T45BPupg68I/AAAAAAAAFYA/F2vBMpolFw8/s1600/Penwood+State+Forest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PfKouzTLjic/T45BPupg68I/AAAAAAAAFYA/F2vBMpolFw8/s1600/Penwood+State+Forest.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Traprock 50K Race Site</b></span></td></tr>
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Less than a week after the Northern Nipmuck Trail Race I was on the road again to CT. This time for my first visit to run in the Traprock 50K Race held at the Penwood State Park in Bloomfield, CT. It was a quick week in VT but I still had training miles to get in. This was key training time for the MMT 100 so again no time to taper except that I did manage to only do a short easy run on Friday before the trip down to CT. For this race I decided to spend the night before at mom's being that she was less than an hour away and I hadn't discovered any great place to car camp the night before the race without being interrupted by the local authorities. The five hour trip down was uneventful and I had my dinner on the fly as I drove non-stop. The main course was a rice pesto/pasta with assorted veggies mixed in along with some garlic bread and a tossed salad. Dessert was my home made apple crisp. When I finally arrived at moms, I was hungry again. It was getting close to 10 PM. I saw a freshly baked cake with frosting. That looked good!! So for a bedtime/pre-race snack it was chocolate cake with a bit of tequila to simmer my brain down after the ride and it was just what the doctor ordered :)<br />
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I woke up not too early and had a waffle breakfast to get me going and then on the road for the 8:30 AM race start. I had organized a drop bag to put at the start finish area of this 3 loop course. I'm not wild about loop courses but it does make it easier when you are self supporting. I had my GU Brew drinks all ready to go and my GU gels and electrolytes all pre-calculated for each loop. I also had an extra pair of Drymax socks and a spare pair of Pearl Izumi shoes, just in case. For the race I was wearing the Pearl Izumi Peak II trail shoes. I managed to get in a quick pre-race run up the first hill to get the heart pumping. Then it was to the start line.<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/-I8xsOQSeS5U/T45QS6ubdlI/AAAAAAAAFZY/s7YKbtgx4GA/s1600/Jack+at+the+pre+race+briefing.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/-I8xsOQSeS5U/T45QS6ubdlI/AAAAAAAAFZY/s7YKbtgx4GA/s200/Jack+at+the+pre+race+briefing.jpg" width="118" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Pre-race briefing</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qv3pbes9Bxs/T45PrIU-byI/AAAAAAAAFZI/YvqpJEZ7ogI/s1600/Traprock+start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="215" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qv3pbes9Bxs/T45PrIU-byI/AAAAAAAAFZI/YvqpJEZ7ogI/s320/Traprock+start.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">The Traprock 50K Start</span></b></td></tr>
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I was lined up with Ben Nephew, Ryan Welts and Nate Sanel, all raring to go. But first the pre-race briefing and then some. It was very nice and informative but did take a bit longer than I thought. Long enough for the body to seize up and stiffen up. Finally the start which was about 100 yards along a paved park road then on trail and up and up. Ben quickly took the lead with Nate and Ryan not far behind. I was following trying to catch my breath. The heart was pounding and trying to regroup. Typically I need a bit of time to either warm up or to allow my body to ease into the run. There was no time for it here so I struggled to get up the first mile waiting to feel my heart slow down a bit. Finally the trail plateaued and I regrouped and got into my own groove. I stayed behind Ben, Nate and Ryan letting them set the pace. By the time we got to the Stairway to Heaven, Ben had gained some distance but was still visible. Nate and Ryan and myself were still fairly tight. After getting to "heaven" the trail mellowed out a bit and rolled up and down. I discovered what "traprock"was as I stubbed my toe. Traprock is a smaller, sharp rock. For the most part it's stable but you feel in under foot and occasionally if you drag your feet, you nail it with your toe. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Elhs0kPovDg/T45K7R4pCQI/AAAAAAAAFY8/ZsygrZDE90Y/s1600/Trails.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Elhs0kPovDg/T45K7R4pCQI/AAAAAAAAFY8/ZsygrZDE90Y/s1600/Trails.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Traprock Rocky Trails</b></span></td></tr>
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For the most part, the trails were in great shape. No mud, just nice New England trail running with a combination of rocks and roots. There was definitely some climbing, I think they mentioned there was 2300 feet of climbing each lap which would add up to nearly 7000 of ascending for this 50K race. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MnewJ_biq-Q/T45BW7OtHhI/AAAAAAAAFYQ/KPuoVlqD2Ts/s1600/Traprock+Profile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MnewJ_biq-Q/T45BW7OtHhI/AAAAAAAAFYQ/KPuoVlqD2Ts/s320/Traprock+Profile.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Traprock 50K Profile</span></b></td></tr>
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At the far end of lap 1 there was the lollipop loop. This was a quick out and back where you could see where other runners were. Ben was clearly ahead while the three of us, Nate, Ryan and myself where rather close knit. On the return lollipop we had a chance to see quite a few other runners not too far back and Kristina Folcik being the first woman was looking strong. Fellow Vermonter Nick Yardley was right there too.<br />
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The return trip back was not as hilly and more runnable. At this point, Ben was ahead with Ryan leading our pack and Nate following. Not long into this section I passed Nate and caught up to Ryan. We ran together for a while until the next aid station. From here the trail was along an old broken up paved camp road. At this point I went into marathon mode and just ran at a good steady pace. Ryan mentioned this was not one of his strong points and I quickly lost him. After about a mile it was back up and climbing until the final descent to the start/finish turnaround. On the descent I saw Ben cruising up looking strong heading back out on lap 2. At the turnaround I quickly replenished my GU Brew, grabbed some more Gu gels and a new supply of electrolyte pills. It was starting to warm and it would be crucial to have the right nutrition/hydration to get through the rest of the race.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eCxIkzQujpA/T45P03a_hCI/AAAAAAAAFZQ/ieYtWPRbRAA/s1600/Ryan+and+Jack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eCxIkzQujpA/T45P03a_hCI/AAAAAAAAFZQ/ieYtWPRbRAA/s320/Ryan+and+Jack.jpg" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Ryan and Jack</span></b></td></tr>
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Lap 2 I was on my own for most of it while passing some of the 17 K runners who started an hour later. I kept the pace up and at the lollipop loop saw Ben again, with a comfortable lead but not too far ahead. On the return of the lolliop loop I saw Ryan and Nate not that far back. The rest of lap 2 I was just in cruise mode, trying to focus on hydration and electrolytes knowing that lap 3 would be the most demanding with the heat increasing.<br />
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As I pulled into the end of lap 2 I refueled again and back out for the final lap. Ben was still comfortably ahead but I was told at the turnaround we were 8 minutes apart. I kept moving along. Ryan and Nate were farther back now too. By the time I got to the lollipop I didn't see Ben which meant he was at least 10 minutes ahead and no sign of Ryan or Nate or anyone else which meant I was at least 10 minutes ahead of them. With that in mind, I decided to back it down a bit. No need to push it as I had more miles to do the next day and a big week ahead. So I maintained, made sure I was hydrated, had sufficient electrolytes and fuel to get me to the finish. The temps had risen maybe to the low 70's but it was dry so almost no sweating. But, I could see my body was crusted over with salt. Still, no cramping or even a hint of cramping which for me, is amazing. It must be the bikram yoga I'm doing for heat training or maybe it was the cake and tequila snack the night before??<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hkWUfphfN8A/T45KU80zx-I/AAAAAAAAFYs/PhHXdFNxN1M/s1600/Traprock+plaque.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="244" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hkWUfphfN8A/T45KU80zx-I/AAAAAAAAFYs/PhHXdFNxN1M/s320/Traprock+plaque.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">The Rock</span></b></td></tr>
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Finally I arrived at the finish in a time of 4:23:57, claiming second place overall, 1st master and winner of my 50 age group. <br />
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Ben was first with a time of 4:05:56. Ryan finished shortly after me with a time of 4:41:28. Nick Yardley came in 5th for the men in a time of 5:04:56. Kristina captured her second victory in a week after winning for the women at the No. Nipmuck the previous week. Here she won in a time of 5:14:26. Another fellow Vermonter running two 50K's that weekend including the "Don't Run Boston 50K" was Paul Sulva finishing Traprock in 7:34:09. And Alison Aiken finished in a time of 6:39:59. <br />
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Full Results are available <a href="http://aratrace.com/traprock-50k-2012/" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
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<b>The Gear</b>: Pearl Izumi Peak II Trail Shoes were awesome! As were the Drymax light hiker sock for some added cushioning on the sharp rocks. The Headsweats Super Duty Race Cap with it's Coolmax sweatband helped keep the sweat under control. And for nutrition, the GU Brew Blueberry/Pomegranate with 2's the sodium did the trick for me again and no cramping!!<br />
And thanks to <a href="http://www.printroom.com/ghome.asp?domain_name=scottlivingston&group_id=37" target="_blank">Scott Livingston</a> for some of the race day photos.<br />
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And thanks to Kevin McMahon for providing a special Thursday pre-race meal, cooking lesson and humor.<br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial;"><b>Tofu Powered Pilla almost Picks Off Punk</b></span>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jack just missed taking the gold from a 33 year old on this 50K last weekend. Boggles the skull to see the split times posted and realize they are 10-mile splits. Shoot me.</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;">Because Jack has quit eating meat, the meal I fed him on Thursday night might have powered him along. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;">On my long-standing invite, he finally dropped in after his Thurs Night Running Group in Essex. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;">It was with some team-spirited joy that I anticipated feeding one of our own Nat Champ Team, and full-time World Beater. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;">So, as I was about to serve him a first course of delicious lasagne, he pulls the 'meatless stare' on me and mumbles something about past lives, glycemic index, more energy...</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;">So, I pull down the wok and set-up a short course on meatless Chinese cooking. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;">I show him the ming-bean sprouts: 'You've had these, right?: I get the Pilla grin and I read:"never".</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;">I show him the tofu: 'You've had tofu, right?: I get the Pilla grin and the raised eye brows: I read: "Never, never".</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;">In a few minutes I've got a mound of never never say 'meatless' Chinese fare in front of him. And he says: "I can't eat all this!"</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;">Here's a guy who looks for food stops on a 5K and he's telling me he might over eat. Hmmmm.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;">I cut it in half and make up a little side salad to help him rough out the roughage, force another Bass Ale on him and catch up on why we do what we do.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;">Scratch that: why he does what he does.</span></i></span><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12px;">Pilllllllaaaaa.</span></span>
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On to more training! See you on the trails,<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Jack</i></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: large; text-align: left;">"</span><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;">The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a person's determination".</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-76007946284202758832012-04-12T11:33:00.001-04:002012-04-12T11:33:59.778-04:00Northern Nipmuck Trail Race Report 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: large;"><b><i>And the training continues!</i></b></span><br />
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I first discovered the <b>Northern Nipmuck Trail Race</b> back in 2007 by accident on a trip to visit Mom over the Easter weekend. The race was so much fun, I've returned almost every year. It usually signifies the return to trail running for me as most trails in Vermont aren't runnable until mid April at the earliest.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WkLKZUzqbmo/T4ZN7BxIU4I/AAAAAAAAFUc/5ZMPufVEuug/s1600/NipmuckTrailSign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WkLKZUzqbmo/T4ZN7BxIU4I/AAAAAAAAFUc/5ZMPufVEuug/s320/NipmuckTrailSign.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I looked at the race this year as a fun training run. Right now I'm into the peak training season for the Massanutten Mountain Trails 100 Mile Run in early May, so again, no time to really taper. I tried to bulk up on miles earlier in the week to give myself a couple days of "rest" towards the end of the week. I attempted some speed work on Tuesday prior to Nipmuck to end a 20 mile day, wasn't happening. It is what it is. In any event I felt decent by the end of the week. So Friday afternoon I packed up the truck and was on the road to the Bigelow Hollow State Park in Union, CT by early evening. It would be about a 4 1/2 hour drive so I figured going down the night before was certainly the better choice than getting up at 3:00 AM Saturday morning. It was an easy drive down and the almost full moon had come out. I arrived at the park around 10:30PM. It was quiet and empty. I found a nice spot to park, had a snack along with the traditional pre-race Bud and off to bed. I don't know why but I always have a great sleep in Hotel Ford. The temp inside the cap was 36 degrees when I woke up but with flannel sheets, blankets and the trusty down comforter, it doesn't get much better than that :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fIfBDo8xQJw/T4bqPfE8PUI/AAAAAAAAFXE/BCqE_QHIEPY/s1600/Hotel+Ford.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fIfBDo8xQJw/T4bqPfE8PUI/AAAAAAAAFXE/BCqE_QHIEPY/s320/Hotel+Ford.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hotel Ford ready to go</span></td></tr>
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I got up around 7:00 AM, went for a quick shake out run to wake up the body and then back for a little breakfast. I got the stove going and quickly was sipping hot tea to go with my wheat bread with peanut butter and Nutella, a favorite pre-race snack and a banana. I relaxed a bit then saw RD Jim Campiformio had arrived. I went over and helped him set up some tents and we chatted about races, health and travels. Jim puts on a great race every year, low key yet totally organized and he listens to concerns. He knows I get lost almost every year and tries to make sure those areas are marked extra to avoid me getting lost again. Jim also mentioned a slight change in the start this year and explained the new route. After the tents were set up I returned to the truck to get ready for the race. Being only 16 miles didn't require anything to special. I had GU Brew drink for hydration, GU gels and electrolyte pills that should be sufficient for the race duration. I went for another short run to warm up and then headed over to the start. It might have been a record number of starters this year or close to it but still small in comparison to other races. With the tight single track and an out and back, the race really can't handle many more runners.<br />
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The start went off as planned but this year instead of running immediately up a steep hill we ran along a buffed out logging road at a brisk pace, quickly thinning out the pack. Before long we were gradually going up and up to hook on with the old trail. Right from the start a number of fast guys took off including Greg Hammett and Ross Krause. I wasn't too far back but saw no need to burn myself up in the first 2 miles. I settled in and just did my own thing with the objection, to have a fun run. Before the top of the hill, a new friend from NH had caught up, Ryan Welts. Ryan has been running well this year and Nipmuck was his first trail race of the season. Soon he was ahead of me and I was just in cruise mode behind. Before long I noticed I was alone and should have hung on to Ryan a bit longer. As I looked up after a rock garden I was lost. Not again! I even recognized the area but just stood there as I didn't want to continue on a wrong path. Soon<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HqHRK2pPWBs/T4ZOAol6UzI/AAAAAAAAFUs/6ZnG86WId4I/s1600/Rock+ledges.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HqHRK2pPWBs/T4ZOAol6UzI/AAAAAAAAFUs/6ZnG86WId4I/s320/Rock+ledges.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
some other runners came along and guided me back on the trail. I missed a 90 degree turn up through the rocks. Yes, been there done that before in that same spot. Anyway, I had some new guys to run with. We went back and forth a bit and chatted some. A couple of young-ins from Mass. We plodded along and finally made it to the half way point turn around. I thought it took quite a bit longer than usual. My legs felt a bit tired but was I really that much slower this year? I didn't realize until much later that the new re-route out was longer than the old version. After the turnaround you have to climb out of the hollow and head steeply up hill for a while. I had to chuckle as a couple of woman were there watching the guys run back uphill commenting on the view from the rear of the men. They seemed to like my legs as I was climbing. Always nice to hear :)<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TB1kGDF3bls/T4ZOD8mh_KI/AAAAAAAAFU0/ZdA4Lt9APmM/s1600/Bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TB1kGDF3bls/T4ZOD8mh_KI/AAAAAAAAFU0/ZdA4Lt9APmM/s320/Bridge.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
For the next 4 miles it was much of the same, cruising along, passing many runners on this out and back section. I must have been daydreaming at one point and lost focus as I tripped and found myself falling head first into a log across the trail. This was not looking good. So as I was going down, I quickly pushed off to get extra lift and distance and cleared the log going into a nice tuck and roll in front of an audience of fellow on coming trail runners. Not a problem, just another day on the trail. Going into the last 4 miles I was a bit behind the 2 young bucks from earlier but for me, the last 4 miles are my favorite. It has some good uphill sections leading up to a fun decent for the last mile. After the mile 12 aid station I was I could see the other guys up ahead. They were starting to fade a bit while I was feeling stronger. Usually it takes me a good 10 miles to settle in. Soon I was ahead of them and totally enjoying the trails. The trails this year were in excellent shape and just a joy to run on. Finally it was downhill, usually a mud bog but this year very little mud. I was all alone and just in cruise mode.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fA7bhf88U8/T4ZN9XaRdFI/AAAAAAAAFUk/nwvyQiukMkQ/s1600/Jack-2.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/-2fA7bhf88U8/T4ZN9XaRdFI/AAAAAAAAFUk/nwvyQiukMkQ/s320/Jack-2.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo of me courtesy of <a href="http://www.printroom.com/ghome.asp?domain_name=scottlivingston&group_id=36" target="_blank">Scott Livingston</a></td></tr>
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I arrived at the finish a couple of minutes faster than 2 years ago and with the longer course, I was happy with that, especially with all the miles I've been putting in lately. I was top master and won my 50's age group and was 8th overall in the middle of all the young 30 and 20 year olds. I can live with that :)<br />
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Some other highlights of the race, for the men, Greg held onto first with Ross coming in second. My New Hampshire friends had awesome races. Ryan took forth place and had his best Northern Nipmuck performance narrowly edging out 2 other runners who were within 6 seconds of him! And Kristina smoked the course and took first for the women breaking her old Northern Nipmuck time by over 20 minutes!! Deb Livingston came in a strong second for the women. (Deb has also been training hard for some soon to happen upcoming events). Good luck Deb!<br />
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<a href="http://www.runwmac.com/gt2012/northern-nipmuck2012.html" target="_blank">Full Results</a><br />
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<b>The Gear:</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RSuHtVuCvv4/T4Zg3htYJWI/AAAAAAAAFWE/rpDxiXgWIEo/s1600/Nipmuck+Race+She-Peak+II.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RSuHtVuCvv4/T4Zg3htYJWI/AAAAAAAAFWE/rpDxiXgWIEo/s320/Nipmuck+Race+She-Peak+II.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pearl Izumi Peak II trail shoe</span></td></tr>
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For this somewhat technical but short race I wore the <b>Pearl Izumi Peak II</b> shoes. They were right on! The traction was superb especially on some of the sharp downhills and they were lightweight yet supportive enough. For socks I wore the <b>Drymax</b> light hiker. With a little extra cushioning they were great over the rocky terrain. I also wore the <b>Headsweats</b> race cap to help absorb a bit of sweat. And for nutrition I drank <b>GU Brew</b> Blueberry Pomegranate flavor and had the Vanilla Bean<b> GU Gels</b> except I saved the Expresso Luv Gu gel (2x's the caffeine) for the last 4 miles.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3o5E0RTMLFk/T4ZhXmqIkKI/AAAAAAAAFWM/zuhwncxsc48/s1600/Nipmuck+Race+Socks+Light+Hiker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="177" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3o5E0RTMLFk/T4ZhXmqIkKI/AAAAAAAAFWM/zuhwncxsc48/s320/Nipmuck+Race+Socks+Light+Hiker.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Drymax Light Hiker ready to run</span></td></tr>
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<b>OTHER TRAINING UNDER WAY</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o4WkuMaBSGE/T4ZONGWyfsI/AAAAAAAAFVE/mOKoEWEi7gc/s1600/yoga+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o4WkuMaBSGE/T4ZONGWyfsI/AAAAAAAAFVE/mOKoEWEi7gc/s200/yoga+1.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is NOT me.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pRXbfGxrx4c/T4ZOPbdutSI/AAAAAAAAFVM/lrijqqcLf3c/s1600/Yoga-Cat1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pRXbfGxrx4c/T4ZOPbdutSI/AAAAAAAAFVM/lrijqqcLf3c/s1600/Yoga-Cat1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is more like me.</span></td></tr>
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In hopes of finding other ways to cross train now that skiing has melted away and to improve fitness I began <b>bikram yoga</b> a few weeks ago. I am not flexible by any means and am as graceful as a dancing elephant but I try. I also figured the intense heat would be good for heat training. I try to hide in the back row in the corner so I can use the wall if I loose my balance but somehow the instructors seem to find me. "Hey sports guy" they call out as I can't do any of the poses. Then they come over and give me "special" treatment making me bend and flex in ways I never thought possible. I even said to the instructor, "You're here to hurt me aren't you?" She kicked my butt! In the first week I bonked bad once. The heat took it's toll on me. The next week I took electrolyte pills before and had an electrolyte drink during. Much better! This week I tried to do too much and bonked bad again. I had to lie down on the mat while they were doing standing poses as I was seeing stars. Once I recover from class I do feel great. My legs don't feel as tight and the sweating definitely is cleansing. <br />
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<b>Bike Season Is On</b>.<br />
With the trails so dry, mountain bike season is on! I had a great ride at the Pine Hill trails in Rutland last week. And Catamount opens up this weekend :) Keep an eye out for the FOTW trails as they are slowly opening up.<br />
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<span style="background-color: lime;">OTHER NOTABLE HIGHLIGHTS!</span></div>
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On April 1, 2012 at the <b>Fools Run 50K</b> in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, local ultra runners Serena Wilcox and Heather Furman successfully completed the run. Serena blazed through the course just a couple of minutes off the women's course record taking first for the women and 10th overall. Congrats to Serena & Heather!!<br />
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On April 7, 2012 at the <b>Cherry Blossom 10 Mile Run</b> in Washington, DC, local runners Norm Larson and Allen Mead were there representing VT. Norm easily won his age group and came in 45th overall for the men at a blistering time of 55:35. That's a 5:33 pace for Norm, unbelievable for most and especially at 56 years young! Allen posted a time of 1:02:57 taking 20th place in his age group of 648 runners. Way to go guys!!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">That's it for now. See you on the trails!</span></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.”</span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Happy Running!</span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-48841641761781685682012-03-28T12:46:00.000-04:002012-03-28T12:46:22.546-04:00A Little Taper Time Can Go A Long Way<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue;">But Knowing What is Right and Doing What is Right Can Often Be A Challenge</span> </span>and the New Bedford Half Marathon was just one of those instances.</i><br />
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<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/-izNKM3mzQ9s/T3JyR-eGXrI/AAAAAAAAFRs/Qi28nOfbQz8/s1600/NB+GMAA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-izNKM3mzQ9s/T3JyR-eGXrI/AAAAAAAAFRs/Qi28nOfbQz8/s320/NB+GMAA.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Part of the 2012 GMAA Team</span></td></tr>
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<b style="text-decoration: underline;">NEW BEDFORD HALF MARATHON,</b> March 18, 2012<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l29wWdzXCBE/T3JyjlPKIGI/AAAAAAAAFR0/7yKvFGeoj94/s1600/Bus+Driver.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l29wWdzXCBE/T3JyjlPKIGI/AAAAAAAAFR0/7yKvFGeoj94/s200/Bus+Driver.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">GMAA's select Premier driver</span></td></tr>
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The New Bedford Half Marathon held in New Bedford, MA. has become a big annual event for our local running club, The Green Mountain Athletic Association. We have so many club runners participating now that we charter our own Premier bus to drive us down there and fill up all the seats and then some. This race is also a big club race for New England and has grown to over 3000 participants. Typically a fast paced race with always some wind on the course. This year was no different and the weather was ideal with temps in the 50's with only a moderate breeze at times.<br />
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For the last 2 months I have been cranking out mostly high mileage weeks to prepare for the Massanutten Mountain Trails 100 in May (also known as the Toe Breaker 100). Knowing that the New Bedford Half would be an all out fast race, I had planned on bringing down the mileage and intensity a bit, especially during the second half of race week. For the first half I figured I would get some miles in with a nice 10 mile trail run on Monday and threw in a 20 mile run on Tuesday on the back rolling dirt roads which turned it into a unexpected 20 mile tempo run. Wednesday another 10 miles of trails. Should have been time to back off. Thursday I decided to run the Rolling Irish Half course and was running late for the Thursday night group run so that turned into a tempo run. Another 20 mile day. Friday just a nice rolling 10 miler but feeling tired. Saturday only 4 miles, but hills. 2 miles up, 2 miles pounding downhill. Pre-race I did a shake down run before breakfast and then an hour before race time decided the legs were stiff so ran another 5-6 miles. So by race time, I had in over 80 miles for the week and not the easiest. On top of all that, I had been fighting a chest cold for the past 10 days. (I thought I could run the shmeg out of me). <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VtRFLYWafkU/T3Jw7-xm0fI/AAAAAAAAFRk/YL_NNbj4A1c/s1600/NB+Half+start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VtRFLYWafkU/T3Jw7-xm0fI/AAAAAAAAFRk/YL_NNbj4A1c/s320/NB+Half+start.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Start of the 2012 New Bedford Half Marathon</span></td></tr>
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When the race gun went off I knew my plan was not working. It's a fast pace right from the start and continues 2 miles slightly downhill. I was running at a steady 6 minute mile which is slow for those 2 miles but the thing I noticed most was that my legs were just dead. Hmm, go figure. I can usually get a away with mini-tapers but I sort of forgot even that. For the rest of the race I just held on. I settled in, did my thing. The only part I enjoyed was the hill at mile 12. While others were slowing down I was starting to feel better and just kept going. At the finish I wasn't even winded at all so I know I hadn't pushed hard, not that my legs were capable that day of turning over any faster. I was lucky to even manage a 6:19 ave pace for the race. Bob and I did a little cool down afterwards before chowing down on some lunch. And if that wasn't enough, when I got back to Burlington after the race I had to pick up some groceries but before shopping I threw on the shoes and ran a 4 mile loop. I sat in the bus for 5 hours so I figured it was time to get the kinks out. And thus ended another 100 mile week and a forgotten taper for which I paid the price. Live and learn.... again.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-odyoXiKPDAk/T3J-bHdRewI/AAAAAAAAFSA/PJ2fPETIGHo/s1600/Sarah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="156" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-odyoXiKPDAk/T3J-bHdRewI/AAAAAAAAFSA/PJ2fPETIGHo/s200/Sarah.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GMAA Team Organizer Sarah Waterman</td></tr>
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There were some great highlights of the race for our club. Friend and ultra training partner Bob Ayers threw down an impressive PR at the age of 51 and kicked my butt. He must have a good coach:). Norm Larson as usual kicked overall butt in the 50 age category with a time of 1:14:30. Joe Noonan, the top finisher for GMAA ran an incredible 1:13:51. Not bad for a 43 year old master runner. And there were many other PR's set for the GMAA individuals. A good day overall!! Here are the final team <a href="http://www.coolrunning.com/results/12/ma/Mar18_NewBed_set3.shtml" target="_blank">RESULTS</a>. <br />
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Special Thanks to Sarah Waterman for organizing this event!<br />
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<b>TIME TO JOIN SOME LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS</b><br />
Since New Bedford I've been racking up the miles. Running trails as much as possible especially with two weeks of mid summer weather. All of the ice is gone now except in the highest of elevations and the mud is almost non-existent due to the extremely snow-less winter. The single track trails are dryer now than they were at most anytime last year. With that in mind, it's time to renew your membership to the Fellowship of the Wheel! The Fellowship has created some of the nicest single track trail networks in the state and are available right here in Chittenden County. For a small donation of $35 you can help support this organization that will continue to maintain and create new and exciting trails to bike and run on. Here's a link to the <a href="http://www.fotwheel.org/" target="_blank">Fellowship of the Wheel</a>. And by being a member you also get discounts at <a href="http://catamountoutdoor.com/" target="_blank">Catamount Outdoor Family Center</a> in Williston for the Tuesday Night Trail Series to begin in May.<br />
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<b>ANOTHER DAY, MORE MILES, </b>March 25, 2012<br />
<i>Part One</i>: <u><b>33rd ANNUAL GMAA SAP RUN</b></u><br />
Another fast trainer on this out and back dirt road 10K with only a small amount of mud to deal with. A noon start for this race was perfect as you could sleep late, have a nice breakfast and then go run at a reasonable hour. Plus the weather was looking much better for the afternoon once the morning rains blew out. With another high mileage week, I did manage to keep the harder workouts to a minimum so the legs actually felt ok for this race. The course is constantly rolling and this year provided a headwind for the first half but then at the turnaround, a tail wind :) This year brought about many college age youngins to run which was fun to watch. Still we had master Binney Mitchell and senior Norm Larson to challenge the kids. I ran much of the race with a 19 year old youngin but shortly after the turnaround, I took a slight lead. Overall, a decent beginning of the day with more mountain running to come to finish the day. After the race and some donuts to snack on it was time to head to the mountains.<br />
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Leaving the race I was torn between Mt. Mansfield and Camel's Hump. With summer weather over the last 2 weeks, much of the now cover was now gone and only 28 inches at the Mt. Mansfield stake remained. I finally decided on the Camel's Hump version. With varied conditions, a quick 5 mile up and down would be more predictable and quicker.....so I thought.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pi-6K3cDmKo/T3KKOXnYCDI/AAAAAAAAFSM/W1dZuf65Lig/s1600/Camels+Hump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="218" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pi-6K3cDmKo/T3KKOXnYCDI/AAAAAAAAFSM/W1dZuf65Lig/s320/Camels+Hump.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Camel's Hump</span></td></tr>
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<i>Part 2</i>: <u style="font-weight: bold;">CAMEL'S HUMP</u><br />
I had planned on driving up to the parking lot to the start of the Burrow's Trail head. From there it's a quick up and down, typically 70 - 90 minutes total. Driving up Camel's Hump Road I was stopped a few miles short by road closed signs. Mud Season has caused some havoc on many back dirt roads and I guess this was no exception. So I found a place off on a side road to park. I had no pack with me and did have the microspikes but decided not to hand carry them figuring on not really needing them much. Also I decided to not bring any water or food. I figured this would be quick. The first 2 miles along the road are mostly uphill. I kept at a slow pace trying not to overheat as I knew the summit could be cold and windy and was socked in the clouds. Once I got to the Forest City Trail I decided to go on the trails to get to the Burrows Trail Head in an effort to avoid a big, mean German Shepherd who I've been visited with in the past. The Forest City Trail was in great shape. Mostly dry, no snow and very little mud. A mile later, I hooked onto the Burrow's Trail. About half way up I stated hitting some snow and ice, mostly avoidable. It wasn't much longer that I was hitting more serious ice on this mostly north facing trail buried in the trees. Now it was getting difficult. I had to find wet rocks and roots for "better traction" and it was just slow going. The final accent was steeper and included this glazed over ice sections and the only way up was to hold on to trees until you could find better footing. Once above treeline, the warm sun and temps from last week had melted the snow and ice. Finally on the summit. Looking at my watch it was 5:30 PM. It had taken me 1 1/2 hours to summit. A bit longer than expected. In an effort to try to eliminate some of the snow and ice on the way down I decided to take the Long Trail South to Forest City. I figured the south facing trail would have less snow and ice. Yes it was a longer way out but hopefully quicker. Instead of a 5 miler, this was turning into an 11 miler. Would I make it out before darkness, another challenge? Of course no headlamp either with sunset around 7:00 PM. Onward I went. There was much less snow and ice for a while but then deeper snow post holing and ice returned in the thicker woods. It was an effort but not unbearable until I hit a section that was totally glazed over. Not much pitch to it but all the same, my feet flew out from under me and down I went, hard, on my back. Not good. I landed hard on one of my elbows too and was just waiting for another bursa to pop up. I finally made it to the Forest City cut off and the trail was looking reasonable with very little snow and ice remaining. At the same time, the brain clock was going off telling me it wanted food and drink. Been there before. I still had a good 3-4 miles to go and was feeling a bit woozy and needed some calories. You think I would have been smart enough to at least carry a couple GU's, but no. After a while I was eyeing the dirty snow thinking how bad can that be?? And the mountain streams were running, what were my chances of Giardia this time of year? Been there, had that before so unless it's an emergency, I try to stay clear of that possibility. So I backed off a bit to conserve and usually the body responds, finds some other fuel sources and allows me to continue. Slow and steady I exited the Forest City Trail and after another two miles of mostly downhill I reached the car just after 7:00 PM to find some much needed cold chocolate milk waiting to revive me as darkness was setting in :)<br />
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<b><u>Other Notable Ultra Events</u>:</b> <i><b>The New Jersey Ultra Festival</b></i> also went on this past weekend with a few Vermonters representing this area. Locals Jen Sorrell and John Lacroix went down to take on the 100 mile event while Kristin Lundy competed in the 100K event. All were successful in completing their events so congrats to fellow ultra runners!! Here are the full <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AicDo8QO8h6gdFhlOEFYZXVYTVpNazU2bWFYR1VwRGc#gid=0" target="_blank">RESULTS</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LgWkYgnfsxc/T3KRxf7ypDI/AAAAAAAAFSo/3h44AGV-1cI/s1600/PI+gear+3.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/-LgWkYgnfsxc/T3KRxf7ypDI/AAAAAAAAFSo/3h44AGV-1cI/s320/PI+gear+3.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">New Pearl Izumi SynchroFuel</span></td></tr>
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Other <b><u>Highlights</u></b> of the last month, I received a new shipment of some awesome shoes by <a href="http://www.runlikeananimal.com/product.html" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Pearl Izumi</span></b></a>. In the last week I've tried out 3 new shoes that have been a real treat to run on! I've already been running on the Pearl Izumi <b>SyncroFuel XC Trail Shoes</b> but tried out the new <b>Peak II Trail Running Shoe</b> which is a more minimalist shoe. Lightweight yet aggressive on the trails and comfortable. I took these out on a 2 hour ride on the single track trails of the Forest and Sleepy Hollow and they were a blast! The next day Aliza took me out for some speed work in Burlington. For that I had on the new Pearl Izumi <b>Streak II Shoe</b> which is their road racing flat. Lightweight yet enough cush to take on a marathon distance. I even used these at the track workout last night and they felt great! (GMAA track workouts at CVU on Tuesday nights!) Pearl Izumi also has the road version of the SyncroFuel XC, the <b>SyncroFuel Road II</b> which has been great as a lightweight trainer for the roads and also on the back dirt roads. In all, they have a totally redesigned lineup for this year that seems to be just awesome!! And of course, the clothing line is incredible too.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7fuaJxox4no/T3KRRtxzUAI/AAAAAAAAFSY/iafSgtk2Z74/s1600/PearlIzumi_Postcard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7fuaJxox4no/T3KRRtxzUAI/AAAAAAAAFSY/iafSgtk2Z74/s320/PearlIzumi_Postcard.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This month in <b>Dog Attacks</b>: I must look like a pork chop to dogs as I run by as I seem to attract far too many. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zDIYsyc-hqo/T3KXVHg9lYI/AAAAAAAAFS0/ORx31p2OHlM/s1600/porkchpmaple2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zDIYsyc-hqo/T3KXVHg9lYI/AAAAAAAAFS0/ORx31p2OHlM/s1600/porkchpmaple2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Is this what I look like?</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KU8WA4JHtQ0/T3KXbkhtjGI/AAAAAAAAFS8/Gn8m70SIHJI/s1600/angry_rottweiler-12911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="191" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KU8WA4JHtQ0/T3KXbkhtjGI/AAAAAAAAFS8/Gn8m70SIHJI/s200/angry_rottweiler-12911.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Nasty Rottweiler</span></td></tr>
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Last week I had a Rottweiler come after me. I thought he was on the other side of an underground fence...until he made it out to the road. I quickly made to the other side of the road and was heading to a hedgerow for protection but found a nice stick on my way, also figuring Mr. Rottweiler didn't really care about any hedgerow. I stopped in the road with my stick and looked this dog right in the eyes and challenged him, yelling as loud as I could. He finally backed off. <br />
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The only good thing, I was feeling sluggish on my run up until then. Somehow I found some new energy for the rest of the run.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1WwLLYkWwb4/T3KY8p4X0jI/AAAAAAAAFTE/-_Ae2P4xS_w/s1600/Bad+Bread+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1WwLLYkWwb4/T3KY8p4X0jI/AAAAAAAAFTE/-_Ae2P4xS_w/s200/Bad+Bread+2.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Door Stopper Wheat Bread</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1sjWioZRy_0/T3KZNFMhjtI/AAAAAAAAFTM/WVFgQLVn8fM/s1600/Good+Bread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1sjWioZRy_0/T3KZNFMhjtI/AAAAAAAAFTM/WVFgQLVn8fM/s200/Good+Bread.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Good Banana Bread</span></td></tr>
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The <b>NEW FOOD PLAN</b> (meatless) has now been going on 6 months. So far so good as long as I focus on eating more calories before any major run. I've also been experimenting on baking to try to mix in more variety. Making wheat bread has not been very successful. The first attempt although not great was at least edible. The second attempt was a true door stopper. I did discover a good recipe for banana bread and it was excellent! My apple crisp is also a winner.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m6Pyn3dpM5o/T3M7Z3Oen4I/AAAAAAAAFUI/vUft6QLB7y4/s1600/Outdoor+shower+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m6Pyn3dpM5o/T3M7Z3Oen4I/AAAAAAAAFUI/vUft6QLB7y4/s200/Outdoor+shower+3.jpg" width="168" /></a><b></b><br />
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<b>OUTDOOR SHOWER</b> is open for the season. With the warmer temps I got the solar heated unit in place again. Timing to catch the warmest heat of the sun is crucial this time of year. Not working this week.<br />
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That's about it for now. Looking forward to some fun upcoming races!<br />
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See you on the trails :)<br />
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<i><span style="color: blue;">"Would you like me to give you a formula for success? It's quite simple, really. Double your rate of failure. You are thinking of failure as the enemy of success. But it isn't at all. You can be discouraged by failure or you can learn from it, So go ahead and make mistakes. Make all you can. Because remember that's where you will find success." </span></i><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: blue;">- Thomas J. Watson</span></span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-16628035814657843212012-02-28T12:47:00.000-05:002012-02-28T21:46:48.651-05:00Febapple Frozen Fifty Race Report 2012<span style="font-size: large;">And yes, they do have trails in New Jersey! And good ones at that :)</span><br />
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February 25, 2012<br />
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When one thinks of New Jersey they typically think of the city and suburbia. And being just miles from Newark for this race, you might think of crime and other bad things but in the smallish town of Maplewood lies a neat little area called South Mountain Reserve full of nice single and double track trails with rocks, mud and hills. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trails in South Mountain Reserve</td></tr>
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The last time I spent recreating in New Jersey was just out of college helping a friend build a house in Tom's River. But we spent most of the time surfing in some awesome fall waves at the shore, another great asset of NJ. And before that in the early 70's it was night skiing at the Great Gorge/Vernon Valley Ski Area. My start of poaching closed trails and having my lift ticket pulled only to beg management for forgiveness so I could ski again. So when looking for a 50 miler at the last minute close to Vermont and NJ popped up as the closest find, I figured why not. I had some good memories in the past so this could be fun. And Tom, a running client of mine was to be running this as a training run so I figured this would be a great opportunity to see Tom on the trails. So Tuesday night of race week I signed up.<br />
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Thursday afternoon I decided I better start thinking about the trip to NJ but first I had to run with the Thursday night crew followed with the traditional Italian feast at Mimmo's. Luckily XC skiing was cancelled this night so it allowed a little more free time. But still I didn't get home until close to 10:00 PM. Not much time to pack. So Friday I had to figure out the travel plans. I sort of knew where I was going as I had programmed my car Garmin to where the race was. I quickly came up with a game plan of drink mix and electrolytes, Body Glide, the important stuff. I grabbed some "drop bags" to put my essentials in, set up Hotel F-150, clothing, shoes and dinner for the ride down and the EZ Pass for tolls. The Pass works great on these road trips! So finally by late afternoon on Friday I was ready to hit the roads. Just in time for the snow to kick in too. Luckily it was not too bad and by the time I drove through Albany it was pouring rain and in the upper 30's. And a great time to enjoy a pesto pasta dinner and salad while cruising the NY Thruway. By the time I hit NJ, the rain had stopped. And at the same time, I was entering the congested streets of suburbia. I had traveled this same route about a year ago on the way to a USATF course in Brooklyn but made the left turn on the Lincoln Tunnel. This night I was in new territory on route to the Newark area. I listened to my faithful GPS voice of Samantha as she guided me through the streets. It was getting late on a Friday night and the streets were looking a bit sketchy. I was now in the "hood" and made sure the doors were locked. When I see all the store fronts with metal bars, I start to wonder. I checked and rechecked with Samantha to try to find Maplewood on the map to make sure I was in the right part of the state and finally there it was. Soon I drove by Seton Hall University and from there on I was in another world. Nice upscale homes, no more bars on windows and gated communities. True suburbia. I came upon the entrance to South Mountain and found a park sitting high up on the hill with the NYC sky line lit up in the background. I found the official parking spot for the race by the dog park and set up camp in Hotel F-150. Hotel F-150 is my race rig. It's a Ford F-150 pickup set up as a camper with a cap on the back, sliding windows with screens and an elevated platform for a queen size bed with gear storage below. With so many of the ultra races starting at the pre-dawn hours, it just makes sense and is way easier than staying in a hotel for a few hours the night before a race. Although this night would present some challenges. I finally had my gear and drop bags all organized and ready to go, got good and comfy under my flannel sheets, blankets and down comforter when all of a sudden I was visited by some flashing lights and search lights. I tried to ignore it but "IT" was not going away. Finally I popped open the back of the cap to the amazement of Maplewood's finest as I crawled out. "What are you doing here?" was what I heard and "License and Registration". I tried to explain about the race but he had no idea what it was. After a full check on my background and vehicle he explained to me that the Park was closed and that I was not supposed to be there but as he was leaving said "have a good night". Nice! I was fast asleep in deep sleep, for the moment. By 2:00 AM, the next shift must have been on, more flashing lights and search lights. Here we go again! I think I scared this guy even more as he was looking in the woods for me. I figured if I didn't make myself known, he might call a tow truck to haul my rig away. When I made my presence known, it was the "License and Registration" again. But this time after the interrogation, he told me I had to leave. I stumbled back into the cab and headed towards civilization, clueless as to where I was. I drove around the neighborhoods and after about 20 minutes, finally found a great spot. A huge church parking lot with a somewhat dark corner. Perfect! Back under the covers again, at least for a few more hours. Throughout the night I could hear the wind howling and the truck at times was rocking from the gusts. But for now, it was fine.<br />
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At 5:30 AM the alarm went off. The clock said 38 degrees inside the cap. Not bad but not easy to get out from the warmth of the down comforter. I had a quick breakfast which consisted of a half a bagel with peanut butter and a banana, got dressed to run and drove off to South Mountain Reserve for the race. Just after 6:00 AM at race headquarters I got my number, chip and figured out where I was, sort of. I still wasn't sure of the race course or of any stats like elevation gain but figured I would follow and learn as it as a 5 loop course' It was also kind of a figure eight so during each 10 mile loop you came back to the start finish area twice. It made it convenient for drop bags and I left some GU Brew drink mix and GU gels, electrolyte pills, extra clothing and an extra pair of shoes just in case. Tom managed to find me and we chatted a bit before the race but it was cold so we both went back to our cars to stay warm until the race start. With about 15 minutes to go I figured I should visit the port-o-let one more time. With only 2, there was a good line up and the line went slow. The RD was shouting out the time before the start and telling those in line for the port-o-let to move a little faster as he was starting the race on time. Finally as he yelled out "75 seconds to go", the door opened and I had my chance to quickly take care of business. With only a few seconds to spare, I was ready to go. There were a lot of runners at the start as this was for both the 50K and the 50 mile but the 50k runners headed out in a different direction to run an extra mile before coming back on course with the 50 milers. I had no idea how many runners were doing the 50 miles and never looked back after the start.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jq-ychZUmbA/T0xbc9GCBYI/AAAAAAAAFOM/VACAHKCGNiE/s1600/Start.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jq-ychZUmbA/T0xbc9GCBYI/AAAAAAAAFOM/VACAHKCGNiE/s640/Start.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start of the 2012 Febapple Frozen 50. (Pic thanks to Kelly Agnew's collection of photos).</td></tr>
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I didn't recognize anyone at first until Joshua Finger said hi. He won the Febapple 50 last year and we had run a couple of years ago at the Finger Lakes 50. He remembered helping me after a fall there but I fall so often I forget about those things. Josh was mainly a road runner in his previous life but has come to the dark side to enjoy the trails and has been doing great. So off we went at a good clip. Soon it was four of us cruising along. Myself, Joshua, Denis Mikhaylov and I think Dante Simone. We would jockey back and forth some but most often it was Denis flying by on the downhills gracefully dancing over rocks and then we would catch up to him on the uphills. It went like that most of the first loop. The course was fun, not what I had expected in New Jersey. It was a nice mix of single and double track trails including some hills and sections of rocks and mud. The rains the day before made for some good wet trails in sections so wet feet was to be the norm for the day. After 4 miles we ran through the start/finish area and I quickly discarded my wind shell and changed my hat from the heavier Headsweats Mid Cap to the Race Cap as I was warming up. <br />
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The course was marked with white flour on the trail but the rains the night before made it not the easiest to follow, especially on the first lap. At about mile 6 or 7 of the first loop we found ourselves running along without any markings on the trail. At least they had marked a lot of the trail so if you didn't see any marking for a while, you knew to turn back before you were too far gone. Soon we were back on track. The four of us ran the first loop in just under 1:22. Heading out for lap 2, it was three of us, myself, Joshua and Denis. The course was getting muddier as foot traffic was churning up the surface. Not much happened on lap two but Josh and I chatted quite a bit while Denis continued to dance on the downhills and slowly climb on the uphills. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TDtoX8l_I8I/T0xuwMo-ISI/AAAAAAAAFOs/K2lHgiRHLnM/s1600/Denis+&+Josh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="145" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TDtoX8l_I8I/T0xuwMo-ISI/AAAAAAAAFOs/K2lHgiRHLnM/s200/Denis+&+Josh.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Denis and Josh</td></tr>
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On lap three, Josh and I noticed that Denis had faded. After a long downhill we looked back and he was no longer is sight. This was his second 50 miler so we figured his lack of experience was taking it's toll on him. After lap 2, I had grabbed a new bottle of my GU Brew but this was a new formula with 2x's the amount of sodium. With all the cramping I do, I figured this was a good time to try it out. I also grabbed a new supply of GU gels, electrolyte pills and off I was again with Josh right there too. The course was getting muddier still and wasn't going to be drying out any time soon but still, it was a great day to run. Temps in the high 30's, no snow or ice on the trail, shorts weather, just the ideal weather to be running in the woods with the extra bonus of no rain or bugs. And it was February! Somewhere around mid lap of lap three, Joshua and I were chatting about the course record and saying it will be broken today. Last year when Josh won, he was running in snow and slush and only 3 runners finished the 50 mile race. So this year with much better conditions and more competition, bettering that time should not be a problem. Soon after that, Josh had faded and I found myself running alone. Josh had a great run at the Rocky Raccoon 100 three weeks earlier so it was only a matter of time until that caught up with him, especially at the pace we ran the first 2 laps. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86OpcHbfCuo/T0x5WWoYBKI/AAAAAAAAFPI/5f8S1GNrkBc/s1600/South+Mtn+Reserve+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86OpcHbfCuo/T0x5WWoYBKI/AAAAAAAAFPI/5f8S1GNrkBc/s320/South+Mtn+Reserve+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice scenery along the trail</td></tr>
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Just before the end of the third lap, I jumped over this log with a large cut out, almost like a bench. I took the approach differently this time and hooked a foot and slipped. I saw myself heading face first for a huge mud hole. The reflexes kicked in and my hands went out to prevent the body slam. Luckily most of the mud was kept to my gloves which I could discard at the end of the lap. So at end of lap 4, the gloves were history, I grabbed a fresh bottle of GU Brew, more GU gels, electrolyte pills and out I went. I had another pair of gloves in my bag but gambled that I wouldn't need them and didn't want to search through my bag for them either. As soon as I started lap 5, the winds picked up and the clouds were rolling in. It was snowing some and seemed to be getting colder. I wished I had gloves on. My hands get cold when its 60 degrees, this would not be fun but it would only be for 10 miles, I could handle that. The wind was definitely getting stronger and one gust was so strong that a large branch came crashing down in the woods next to the trail. I was wishing I had on my wind shell too. With no one to run with and no one in sight, I did back off a bit and even walked up some hills but kept moving forward as it was time to end this. I maneuvered better over the cut out log this time without a mud bath, ran through the last couple hundred yards of water and mud and finished up the day claiming the Golden Apple. Denis ended up second for the day winning the Silver Apple and Kelly Agnew claimed the Bronze Apple. Josh finished up after 40 miles.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ESzU5Y7u8cw/T0xpn3Z0HeI/AAAAAAAAFOY/OXeSYWjXFDE/s1600/FebApple+50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ESzU5Y7u8cw/T0xpn3Z0HeI/AAAAAAAAFOY/OXeSYWjXFDE/s320/FebApple+50.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And the gear for the day, a big change for me. A new ride after many years! I wore the <b><i><a href="http://www.pearlizumi.com/publish/content/pi_2010/us/en/index.html" target="_blank">Pearl Izumi</a> </i></b>Synco Fuel XC shoe and they were awesome. I only fell once during the day which is good for me but I did manage to kick a few big rocks along the way and the toe bumpers in these shoes were great. They also provided the extra support and cushioning I needed on the rocky sections. Thanks to Kyle at the <a href="http://www.skirack.com/" target="_blank">SkiRack</a> for assisting with this change and thanks to Jeff and Pearl Izumi :) The <a href="http://www.headsweats.com/" target="_blank">Headsweats</a> Midcap was great for the cooler start and changing over to the race cap was the perfect transition as the day warmed up.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NVMahO0z4K8/T0xvEzuFROI/AAAAAAAAFO0/uH_M8s9nOO0/s1600/Pearl+Izumi+Syncro+Fuel+XC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NVMahO0z4K8/T0xvEzuFROI/AAAAAAAAFO0/uH_M8s9nOO0/s320/Pearl+Izumi+Syncro+Fuel+XC.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The New Ride from <b>Pearl Izumi</b> with lots of mud.</td></tr>
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Nutrition, the new <a href="https://guenergy.com/" target="_blank">GU</a> Brew with 2x's the sodium made for a cramp free day. I noticed after 3 laps that my shirt was spotted with salt even with the cooler temps and it's usually after 35 miles or so when my cramps kick in but not on this day. And I took fewer electrolyte pills than usual. I felt energized throughout the day eating GU gel and the occasional peanut butter and jelly sandwich and bananas. All good!<br />
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And thanks to RD Rick and Jennifer McNulty for putting on this race. They did a fantastic job with four different races going on throughout the day. Full results can be found here: <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AicDo8QO8h6gdHQtZlpVMmc2ZWUyQk9PUzVXNW44QUE#gid=0" target="_blank">RESULTS</a> . They also host a number of races throughout the year so check out <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/njtrailseries/" target="_blank">NJ Trail Series</a>.
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>HAPPY TRAILS!</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><b><i>You may be disappointed if you fail, but you are doomed if you don’t try.</i></b></span></span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1402525650001487049.post-16529388655150996472012-02-13T19:47:00.001-05:002012-02-13T19:47:52.274-05:00Mansfield Loop - Winter Edition 2012<br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">The Mount Mansfield Loop with some extra twists and turns.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bb376W_QOCM/TzlunIdh8OI/AAAAAAAAFNo/b19eKD07X-A/s1600/Mansfield+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bb376W_QOCM/TzlunIdh8OI/AAAAAAAAFNo/b19eKD07X-A/s400/Mansfield+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Long Trail along the summit of Mt. Mansfield</td></tr>
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The Mansfield Loop is a running route I created years ago linking many locations in the Vermont hills together to circle the highest peak in Vermont, Mt. Mansfield at 4395 feet in elevation. It includes the Long Trail, the Trout Club, The Catamount Trail, Trapps Nordic Center, Mt. Mansfield Touring Center and The Toll Road at Stowe and of course the Chin at the top of Mt. Mansfield. It's not as dramatic as the big mountains out west but it certainly can be a challenge because of the varied terrain and weather conditions. The usual version is about 26 miles but there are other variations as well to make it longer or shorter if desired. Total time on the trail can be 6-7 hours on average. I've run this Loop numerous times in the spring, summer and fall but never in the winter. Usually in the winter I’m skiing but with the lack of significant snow this year and getting extremely bored of running roads and icy trails I thought I would try something different. Last weekend I did a run around Camel’s Hump and it was great fun. So this weekend I thought I would venture out a bit longer.<br />
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Saturday, February 11, 2012.<br />
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I had a late start to the day as usual for me but never got in from running the night before until 6:30 PM. I managed to get in a 20 miler at the end of the day on Friday and got caught in the dark without any reflective wear or headlamp. I finally got home “safely” by running on the railroad tracks and across some frozen meadows to avoid any kind of vehicular traffic. While having some dinner I made the decision to hit Mansfield Saturday morning and was trying to figure out what to pack for the run. With 6 – 7 hours of being on the trail, one of the biggest challenges is to stay dry and warm. With a lot of hills on this route it is common to get quite sweaty right from the start as the first 1½ miles is all up hill. So in preparation, I packed another complete set of clothes along with 3 pair of mittens (my hands always freeze), 2 extra hats and 2 balaclavas of varying thickness. I also brought my GU Brew but had to keep it deep in the pack at temps were looking like 15 degrees and below for the day. And food, snacks to keep me going along with some GU gels for quick energy. Finally I was on the trail by 10:30 AM. The way I figured it, I would have 7 hours of daylight to complete the loop. And if time were running out, I could bypass the summit. I had my headlamp in the car but decided to not bring it as I wanted to be out of the woods by dark.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_P0O_sSyhgc/TzlmM6x7GSI/AAAAAAAAFMw/r4AQ3YD_NWw/s1600/Nebraska+Notch+Trail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_P0O_sSyhgc/TzlmM6x7GSI/AAAAAAAAFMw/r4AQ3YD_NWw/s400/Nebraska+Notch+Trail.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nebraska Notch Trail</td></tr>
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I started off on the Nebraska Notch Trail. It was hard underneath and had a couple inches of snow pack on top which made for great footing and awesome grip with the Kahtoola Microspikes. In case I ran into deeper snow and for added insulation I wore XC ski gaiters. I figured it would only help keep snow out of the summer trail shoes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oZsPY0PF7ho/Tzlnu3Pz_SI/AAAAAAAAFNE/xCK1WO0LNKA/s1600/Foot+wear+for+Mansfield+Hike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oZsPY0PF7ho/Tzlnu3Pz_SI/AAAAAAAAFNE/xCK1WO0LNKA/s400/Foot+wear+for+Mansfield+Hike.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The set up: screw shoes with microspikes and gaiters.</td></tr>
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The hike up to the Long Trail was up, up and up so I quickly stripped down to a couple of long sleeve techy shirts to stay cool. It was quiet in the woods and I didn't see anyone all the way to Taylor Lodge. I finally saw some signs of life as I went through the Trout Club on the other side of the mountain. The microspikes were working just fine on the uphills and the downhills. For a short section after the entrance to the Trout Club I was on thinly snow covered dirt roads for a mile or two so slipped off the microspikes. I still had on screw shoes which worked fine for the occasional ice but before long I was on deeper snow and ice again cruising along the Catamount Trail heading up to Trapps. Back on with the spikes. Luckily they go on and off very easily. Going through Trapps I was waiting for the trail police to pull me over. Luckily it was Winter Carnival Weekend and a major XC race was going on so I think it kept them away. They don't like us runners going through any time of the year which is too bad. I saw lots of friends at Trapps skiing around including Tom, Binney, Bryce, Sheila, Pascal and some more. The snow looked great for XC skiing. Being higher up than most XC centers they seemed to have a lot more snow than the lower parts of the Valley. On my way to the Mansfield Touring Center I ran into Karen at the crossover from Trapps and had some more social time. So far the weather was perfect, cold but no wind with the occasional glimpse of sunshine to warm you up. Time was still on my side even with all the socializing.<br />
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I finally arrived at the bottom of the Toll Road at Stowe. I was feeling quite sweaty and usually do a clothing change but with only one change of clothes I decided to wait to have dry clothes to summit the Chin. The Toll Road was busy as I tried to run/hike this 4 1/2 mile section. Usually I complain about cars going up and down the Toll Road, but I will never complain about them again. Skiers and especially out of control snowboarders are way worse! I don’t know how many times I had to jump along the far side of the trail to get out of the way or be run over. It was slow going. I arrived at the top of the new quad lift and took a quick break at the Octagon to get on some dry clothes. While there I ran into another friend, Deedle, who was skiing at Stowe that day. I decided to put on my warmest mitts for the next leg and added hand warmers too as my hands were so frozen I could barely even open the hand warmer package. My one little pinky was in a frozen curved position and was getting in the way when I tried to put my hands in the mitts so I thought the hand warmers would be a special treat. So I was off to the summit, warm and dry, hydrated and some food in the belly, feeling good. The next challenge would be to summit the Chin. Coming up the Toll Road the wind was increasing and I could see the summit engulfed in a fog. Usually that means cold and wind. I planned on going to the Chin unless the winds were cranking. Heading north on the Long Trail proved to be very placid… for the first ¼ mile. Then the wind started to pick up from the Northwest, directly onto the left side of my face. The temperature was probably near zero and within about 5 minutes the whole left side of my nose was numb even with pulling up my balaclava. Out of desperation I thought I would try something new. I found another great use of a hand warmer, a nose warmer! I stuck the hand warmer inside the balaclava on the left side of my nostril and it was incredible! Within a few minutes, that side of my face thawed out and I could breathe again from my left nostril. They need to market these warmers as “Nose Warmers”. They could sell so many more. Anyway, from here to the summit I would continually rotate the warmers from my hands to my nose and it was wonderful!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GcGxPL5OZgk/TzluwQs92pI/AAAAAAAAFNw/L2fwSUFGdtg/s1600/Jack+on+Mansfield+2-2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GcGxPL5OZgk/TzluwQs92pI/AAAAAAAAFNw/L2fwSUFGdtg/s400/Jack+on+Mansfield+2-2012.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little frosty on the summit ridge of Mansfield</td></tr>
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The Leg Breaking Crust was not so wonderful. I quickly discovered that what looked like good firm snow to run on turned out to be hard breakable crust where I would sink up to my knee or shin and be stopped dead in my tracks so carefully I kept going forward. I soon was in the middle of that cold, wind fog and it was cold and windy. With only 1/2 mile to the summit I got lost and disorientated. It looked familiar but was not the Chin. I decided to head what I thought was in an easterly direction and finally came upon a sign barely visible, the West Chin. It's not the first time I've been a little lost on the summit. I've always managed to figure it out after a while. Finally on the Chin, I stopped for a moment of peace and quiet, said my thanks and headed back down on the Long Trail. Too cold and windy for pics. About a mile down the trail the sun popped out, long enough for a quick picture.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-puBikShDqtY/TzluGcMif_I/AAAAAAAAFNQ/6zaixLqktCQ/s1600/Mansfield+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-puBikShDqtY/TzluGcMif_I/AAAAAAAAFNQ/6zaixLqktCQ/s400/Mansfield+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The summit ridge line with the fog cloud up ahead.</td></tr>
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Beyond the Nose the Long Trail South heads into the woods. It immediately had a lot of ski tracks but then they veered off to the Tear Drop, a back country ski mecca. The Long Trail had some old hiking tracks to begin with and some fresh snow on top. But soon all tracks were gone. Shortly I found myself lost trying to get to the Forehead and bushwhacked a bit in deep snow but knew the general direction and got there after following a ridge line that I thought would eventually get there and it did. From the Forehead going south on the Long Trail was another adventure. There were no tracks whatsoever and the trail steeply descends along a mostly open face. No trail markers to be found. Saw a couple of what could have been cairns but they just didn't make any sense in where they were or where they were going. I followed along quite a ways but ran into numerous tree holes so deep that I sank up to my waist and had to swim out. I continued descending for quite a ways hoping to find some kind of trail marking as the dense forest was coming up which included cliffs and dead ends. The trail section ahead, if I found it, is one of the most challenging sections with chutes and ladders as we like to call it. Finally looking at my watch I had to make a decision. I had about an hour and a half of daylight remaining. If I continued to wander around lost or got stuck on a cliff or in a big tree hole, I might be there for a considerable amount of time and maybe longer. I was not very thrilled at the thought of spending the night. And with no emergency blanket or even any winter clothes or a headlamp, I decided to backtrack and find another route out. Back up to the Forehead, which was not easy either falling in more tree holes but it still beat the alternative. Once on the Forehead I decided to head west on the Wampahootus Trail. No tracks either but I had to try and I knew there was an intersection down below. What I remember most of this section is the incredibly steep descent for 2/10th of a mile before it merges with some other trails. At this point I learned the limitations of the microspikes as I slid out of control down some sections. I had to do a self arrest at one point as I was heading towards a steep downward cliff. Luckily it worked. Finally I found a trail that had some significant trail use. From my observations I think most winter hikers are eliminating the Chutes and Ladders section of the Long Trail South and using this other trail as a bypass. From there it was a quick trip to Butler Lodge where I refueled and noticed the nice orange colors through the trees, oh yea sunset. I quickly got my butt out the door. I still had almost 2 miles to go. It was all downhill to the Stevensville Road parking lot where my journey began. This section was very nice to run on but if you went off the trail at all, you would quickly sink in and drop to your knees or on your face which I did a few times. In all, I managed to get out just as darkness was setting in. Another day, another adventure, all good in the end :)<br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat.”</span><br />
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06213761681571930774noreply@blogger.com2