tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-389077792024-02-28T00:08:20.715-08:00Keep Me HonestNichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.comBlogger194125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-1213899454352682142011-07-28T14:06:00.001-07:002011-07-28T14:37:44.339-07:00I'm still alive...<div style="text-align: justify;">...not that anyone reads this, but I figured I'd come back, since I'm working on getting back to a place where I'm happy with my running again...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Since I last posted I've run a 100K, a 12 Hour race, 3 50Ks, a Marathon, and a 27.4 mile race... none of my performances are worthy of writing about, but I will say I did have one terrible race at the Green River Marathon this year, though I knew that's what was in store long before starting... If you feel the need to see the results of the races or read my (quick) comments on them, feel free to click the little "Stats" link over on the left...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Really this post only serves to state three things:</div><div><ol><li style="text-align: justify;">My wife & I had a baby in late April, she kicks ass...</li><li style="text-align: justify;">I'm back on the wagon and re-learning how to actually train (and so far I feel as though it has been a success)</li><li style="text-align: justify;">I <i>might </i>actually try to get back to updating this on occasion... <i>maybe</i>...</li></ol><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-52337454952799554862010-06-07T14:38:00.000-07:002010-06-08T10:44:37.285-07:00I'm a *really* lazy blogger (AKA: Yeesh, my third blog post all year and it's June already...)Since Lord Hill, the schedule has panned out just as I thought it would...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.tacomacitymarathon.com/">Tacoma City Marathon</a><br />5/2/10 - 3:51:21 - 119<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span> out of 391 finishers<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">I stayed out quite late the night before celebrating a buddy's birthday and had *really* fallen behind on training prior to this race, so all things considered, I was actually pretty happy with my time. Andre (MM# 764) & I car pooled down together and ran a good chunk of the race together as well.<br /></div><a href="http://www.cascaderunningclub.com/wps.html"><br />Watershed Preserve 12 Hour</a><br />5/15/10 - 59.13 miles in 11:21:20 - 16<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">th</span> out of 106 finishers<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">I really enjoyed this race for a lot of different reasons. First off, I got to play on the trails and get a pretty descent amount of miles in (I should have done more in those remaining 39 minutes, but there's always next year). I got in about 50K or so running with various familiar faces, including Eric (MM# 153) & Steve (MM# 510) who are always a blast, then, was joined by Andre who agreed to come out and pace me for the rest of the day, which was great from a motivational stand point. Second, I got to witness a bunch of first - I saw Betsy (MM# 1077) & Matt (MM# 1078) complete 50 miles for the first time, saw Morrie & <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Zale</span> run their first ultras (31.2 miles!) when their previous distance <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">PRs</span> had been 25K (amazing jump!), and I saw Susan set a distance PR of 19.73 miles despite an early morning pet emergency that kept her from starting 'til noon-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">ish</span>. To top it off, photographer extraordinaire, Glenn <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Tachiyama</span> was out there to document the day for us! Check out a few (or all) of his pics from the day...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><a href="http://www.pbase.com/gtach/ws122010">Glenn's link to all the days shots (please respect his copyright)</a><br />...and below are a few specific shots by Glenn...<br /><a href="http://www.pbase.com/gtach/image/124611670">Me, shot through the woods</a><br /><a href="http://www.pbase.com/gtach/image/124616410">Andre & I <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">cruisin</span>'</a> </div></div><br /><a href="http://firstcalltorunmarathon.blogspot.com/2010/05/first-call-spring-run-off-sat-may-22.html">First Call Spring Run Off Half Marathon</a><br />5/22/10 - 2:26:58 - 29<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">th</span> out of 42 finishers<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">HALF</span> Marathon?!? What the hell was I doing running a half, you may ask. Well, easy answer, this was my buddy Jason's first half marathon, in fact I believe it was his longest run over 5K, so I agreed to run it with him, which was pretty great. The two of us, Morrie, and Susan all car pooled down together. Jason impressed by running the entire distance with out a walk, break, or stop of any sort - congrats Jason! Well done! (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">When's</span> the next one?)<br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.greenrivermarathon.com/">Green River Marathon</a><br />6/5/10 - 3:42:40 - 19<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">th</span> out of 149 finishers<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">This is a great race that I've done the last 3 years now, which finishes just a few miles from my house. <a href="http://keep-me-honest.blogspot.com/2009_06_08_archive.html">Last year</a> I ran this race on the heels of some damn awful news, this year's race feel a year to the day of that news, so to commemorate (for lack of better word) the day occasion I busted out the same cotton T-shirt I wore last year. I didn't run as fast this year, but I am still quite happy with my time, and enjoyed the race once again.<br /><br /><a href="http://robcat.smugmug.com/Running/Green-River-Marathon/2010-0604-Green-River-Marathon/12445526_8SSM8#891135222_QLmzX">Photo's of the event by <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Robcat</span> Keller (please respect his copyright)</a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Up next is definitely the <a href="http://www.vashonultra.com/"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Vashon</span> Island 50K</a> on 6/26 & possibly <a href="http://bellevueghost.blogspot.com/">The Ghost of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Bellevue</span></a> Marathon the next day to celebrate my birthday (thou' the Ghost is still up in the air, as I will have my parents in town visiting from MN). Besides that, <a href="http://www.cascaderunningclub.com/plain100.html">Plain 100</a> is still the big plan of my up coming races, but I'll be sure to fill in the months in between, and hopefully soon...<br /></div></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-57830232171686246552010-03-16T13:19:00.000-07:002010-06-07T15:30:02.441-07:00I am a lazy blogger (AKA: 2010 so far)<div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.seattlerunningcompany.com/Events/Bridle/bridle.html">Bridle Trails 50K</a><br />1/9/10 - 5:40:32 - 46th out of 70 finishers<br />Slower than last year (no surprise there), but I still had a great time!<br /><a href="http://www.capitolpeakultras.com/cpmfaindex.htm"><br />Capitol Peaks Mega Fat Ass</a><br />1/16/10 - 6:42 - 32nd out of 38 finishers<br />I got VERY lost toward the end of the race and I had already been going fairly slow, never the less I still enjoyed being out on the trails!<br /><a href="http://www.4thdimensionracing.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=62&Itemid=46"><br />Lord Hill 50K</a><br />3/7/10 - 6:26:32 - 4th out of 21 finishers<br />Got just a wee bit lost in the beginning adding about a mile extra (but so did Shawna the over all winner, so no excuse there). Ran fairly well on the downs, was a bit slow on the ups, and was too slow on the flats of the final loop, but over all I'm happy with the finish. Again, it was on trails, so really how bad could it of been!<br /><br />My upcoming schedule is still being worked out but as I can see it right now, I have no scheduled events for April. In May I have the <a href="http://www.tacomacitymarathon.com/">Tacoma City Marathon</a> on the 2nd, effectively ending a 7 month long hiatus from long distance road running (sad), and the <a href="http://www.cascaderunningclub.com/wps.html">Redmond Watershed Preserve 12 Hour</a> on the 15th. In June I may once again do the <a href="http://www.greenrivermarathon.com/">Green River Marathon</a> on the 5th with a firm plan of running the <a href="http://www.vashonultra.com/">Vashon Island Ultra</a> on the 26th. From there forward things are still up in the air, with the only real solid plan being <a href="http://www.cascaderunningclub.com/plain100.html">Plain</a> in September.<br /></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-67393758866223759402010-01-07T12:36:00.001-08:002010-01-07T12:36:16.867-08:002009 = ...3 Marathons<br />8 50Ks<br />2 50 milers<br />2 100 milers<br />1 'other' (12 Hour Race, 48.25 miles)<br /><br />Personal best marathon for 2009 - 3:29:39<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">*</span> (Green River Marathon)<br />Personal worst marathon for 2009 - 4:36<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">**</span> (Michelle's Grand Ass)<br /><br />Personal best 50K for 2009 - 4:44<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">*</span> (Pigtail's Run)<br />Personal worst 50K for 2008 - 6:46:23<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">**</span> (Doppler 50K)<br /><br />(The 50 milers are COMPLETELY incomparable to one another)<br /><br />'Favorite' race of 2009 -<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Yeesh</span>... I have a great selection to choose from this past year... I promise I'll pick one but let me first say that I really enjoyed all of the following: Bridle Trails 50K, Capitol Peak Mega Fat Ass 50K, The White River 50 Mile, STORMY, Hundred in the Hood, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Carkeek</span> 12 Hour, and the Doppler 50K. Now, if you're paying attention, you may noticed that all of the fore mentioned involved trail portions, if not entirely, and that's no coincidence. From that list, it's really hard for me to choose, after all, STORMY was my first 100 miler, so that counts for something, having said that I enjoyed Hundred in the Hood even more, White River was once again wonderful, while Cap. Peak, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Carkeek</span>, & Doppler were all great in their community feel. In the end I think Bridle Trails edges the rest out, it was the first time I had ran in conditions that sloppy and I had a great time! Doppler gave me plenty of muck too, and it comes in a close 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">nd</span>, but it doesn't hold the distinction of being first, thus, Bridle Trails was my favorite race of 2009.<br /></div><br />Least enjoyed race of 2009 -<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">This is easy, Valentine Marathon, no question, I should note that I had great company while running and that does not factor into my choice. I never really properly blogged about the race, one reason was that I really didn't have much good to say about it and I was concerned that bad mouthing the race may some how look bad on my part, now that almost a year has past I can say with out hesitation that I will *never* run another Bob Green Marathon (or holiday marathon, or <span><span id="FP244935_ctlCnInf184166">Kristina Salazar marathon, or whatever else they want to call themselves). The list of reasons why I was unhappy with this race is so long i don't think I have the patience or time to list them all, but here are a few of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">highlites</span> (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">lowlites</span>)</span></span>: it was relatively expensive for a course that was not closed off - the 'official' time keepers were 2 12 year old kids who, guess what, had no interest in actually recording times and acted accordingly - when told that they had ran out of shirts I was offered either a shirt latter or $5 back, I said the $5 would be fine, despite numerous emails I have yet to receive the refund let alone a second response (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">ie</span>: 'yeah, I'll send you $5, what's your address?' / address sent / no response / '<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">ummm</span>.. I have yet to receive anything...' / no response / '...seriously, can I have my $5?...' / no response), 3 emails were sent, I have since given up, out of principle though I now tell everyone I can not to run those damn races. (I'm sad I even deadicated this much time to rehashing it.)<br /><br />Next up: Bridle Trails 2010 (this weekend)!!!<br /></div><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:78%;" >* = PR<br />** = Personal Worst</span>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-47809434061547331882009-11-24T13:05:00.000-08:002009-11-24T15:30:46.742-08:00Doppler 50K<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD0FWMSkCnr7xxU3FsaUdElCBBJvzh9Lqk4Z13FgNHVAdtZ2ZJlQZdLnZm9fpe7LAosCNfFLCmdikJJlcGMS8ZJPFMwQj05xl6EVBPIHC5tvPDZ9uw9UqotanU6pZfeFlS02w4/s1600/IMG_5149.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD0FWMSkCnr7xxU3FsaUdElCBBJvzh9Lqk4Z13FgNHVAdtZ2ZJlQZdLnZm9fpe7LAosCNfFLCmdikJJlcGMS8ZJPFMwQj05xl6EVBPIHC5tvPDZ9uw9UqotanU6pZfeFlS02w4/s400/IMG_5149.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407813397127676642" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(What could be more inviting?)</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Alright, so here's the thing</span>, I do my best to live with in my means, but there are a few things that, once I have a taste for them, I want in excessive excess (yep, that much), that list includes, breakfast, <a href="http://www.allaboutbeer.com/images/beertalk/laconner.jpg">La Conner IPA</a>, and miles. Since late July I've been treated to two 100 mile races, a 50 miler, and a 12 hour race (not to mention many an Eggs Benedict and a case of IPA), satiated I should be, but no. So, despite my excitement to run new trails, a week ago 50K was looking just too short.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIF9wAhadZGFjEjlo8eGaYOK3KDHoobTUG-8_5NlqsUNvlyhlL1JwmCSIcHwoIWqbjkmA1rqN0bB_ArEUBUeh7WZIIk331F3x7fpQA6Gi0tTrnl0k7TUjcgUJKGHCakVJq-uZW/s1600/IMG_5139.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIF9wAhadZGFjEjlo8eGaYOK3KDHoobTUG-8_5NlqsUNvlyhlL1JwmCSIcHwoIWqbjkmA1rqN0bB_ArEUBUeh7WZIIk331F3x7fpQA6Gi0tTrnl0k7TUjcgUJKGHCakVJq-uZW/s400/IMG_5139.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407813182327093378" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(The brave few receive their instructions)</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">On Sunday, I woke up dark and early, prepared and got dressed, kissed the wife goodbye, and was out the door to carpool with fellow West Satellite Mike. We arrived at the Green Mountain trail head in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Bremerton</span> with a half hour or so to spare, the perfect amount of time to say some hellos, decide what clothing options to go with, and get briefed by the RD. Despite the pouring rain on the way to the race, by the time we began it had been reduced to a lite drizzle which soon disappeared all together .<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidE3cCCVrAziX0QGSMqhGhptBgVw9km02nh_XgJ61boq2bDp4P1VdJI9q9GazLn3EWfLr9d9l_KoEPwHSStg7qi4n4VsK98ifI-mw1tkee91A3pDg6_hm_8y21n0_9Zxo8J1Qn/s1600/IMG_5143.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidE3cCCVrAziX0QGSMqhGhptBgVw9km02nh_XgJ61boq2bDp4P1VdJI9q9GazLn3EWfLr9d9l_KoEPwHSStg7qi4n4VsK98ifI-mw1tkee91A3pDg6_hm_8y21n0_9Zxo8J1Qn/s400/IMG_5143.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407813257878565426" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(Eric & I, early on, thrilled to be surrounded by woods and snow!)</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">We were warned prior to starting that it would be best to just run through the puddles as opposed to attempting to avoiding them, this was shown to be good advice early on. After a few puddles which were able to be hopped across or skirted around the '<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">unavoidables</span>' began to show them selves, the beauty of this of course is that once you go through one, you're already as wet as you can get, which really ends up being a liberating realization, to the point that they become enjoyable!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdH74cXS1z3ZL85jSxrI7O31DnS5Qxwh2NPwpBTmCWb_4DqNcga77yWoljkRGP0lZ_D7MwhIaEQy5-DYkP2haYHc_7ZbqGWJxCwxrGFXq2en9aelB8lgFRrwV9Fe-onngPx_2T/s1600/IMG_5144.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdH74cXS1z3ZL85jSxrI7O31DnS5Qxwh2NPwpBTmCWb_4DqNcga77yWoljkRGP0lZ_D7MwhIaEQy5-DYkP2haYHc_7ZbqGWJxCwxrGFXq2en9aelB8lgFRrwV9Fe-onngPx_2T/s400/IMG_5144.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407813319266316338" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(Misty Mountain High? Sure, why not?)</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">About 2/3<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">rds</span> of the course was run along trails with the other 1/3rd on forest service dirt roads, as much as I would have loved 100% trails, the roads were <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">bearable</span> and even provided some <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">scenic</span> views of the Olympic mountains, the Puget sound, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Bremerton</span> below, that, coupled with a light blanket of snow provided for one very enjoyable course!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCU94hfG8bL3kJw9lac_UkrqKuod9SG6zhAlEwvpqllYcBaE3H78CEyE2blzvaUTHYyHZJi-dokeSNyNya-BSbEt3dsh-xBP3uuqnxu4WMfs8VErEAQCA6jlzHqcOdS7Qy9qRh/s1600/13741_1297523360964_1316768894_871049_4076581_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 309px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCU94hfG8bL3kJw9lac_UkrqKuod9SG6zhAlEwvpqllYcBaE3H78CEyE2blzvaUTHYyHZJi-dokeSNyNya-BSbEt3dsh-xBP3uuqnxu4WMfs8VErEAQCA6jlzHqcOdS7Qy9qRh/s400/13741_1297523360964_1316768894_871049_4076581_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407815557902801490" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(Trail? Nope. Stream? Nope. "Unavoidable!" is the proper term!)<br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The entire run <a href="http://journeytoacentum.blogspot.com/">Eric Barnes</a> & I stuck together, and for quite some time we were in good position to come in tied for 3rd (granted there were, at most, 20 other runners), that is until we managed to take a wrong turn and add about an extra mile and a half to 2 miles... oh well, bonus fun/extra credit!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8r3Mu3Ey0XL96q5KEWqe9B2VNP9TPdYPUGVYJt7RZhnYkxRD9PIIk88GASlGtPNWCpXPpkgBhZB_nJu7Ypf1QeImU8U05Wibh_lfnrkD6UK1SnHPCOVldamJ2Q-o8s9zDPqpC/s1600/IMG_5152.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8r3Mu3Ey0XL96q5KEWqe9B2VNP9TPdYPUGVYJt7RZhnYkxRD9PIIk88GASlGtPNWCpXPpkgBhZB_nJu7Ypf1QeImU8U05Wibh_lfnrkD6UK1SnHPCOVldamJ2Q-o8s9zDPqpC/s400/IMG_5152.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407813482950160770" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(The Olympics and some blue sky make a guest appearance.)<br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">By the finish, we had been on the course for about 6 hours & 46 minutes, and though, sure, I would loved to have played in the woods for another 20 or so miles, I ended up having a wonderful time and very much hope that this run appears on the calendar for years to come.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">(Sorry for the fragmented report, but that's what I'm willing to write right now.)</span></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-61561690765586681782009-11-13T15:25:00.000-08:002009-11-16T11:31:40.784-08:00Carkeek 12 Hour<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgax29VLI_kczUHJ1fH1qN5fUfdbMdymYq953uwGDEkeMUw4t6Ws1uPHBTqlPNJvN7Jm_N7D7pmiuetvhxED_Orf8r44lpLOrrpUHXKmr2DY1QRp_sjId_h39bULiWrIk4_H6-0/s1600/IMG_0160.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgax29VLI_kczUHJ1fH1qN5fUfdbMdymYq953uwGDEkeMUw4t6Ws1uPHBTqlPNJvN7Jm_N7D7pmiuetvhxED_Orf8r44lpLOrrpUHXKmr2DY1QRp_sjId_h39bULiWrIk4_H6-0/s400/IMG_0160.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404785514944272050" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">( Coming into the aid station after <span style="font-style: italic;">another </span>lap)</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I ran the <a href="http://www.carkeek12hour.com/">Carkeek 12 Hour</a> way back on Halloween, I've been meaning to type up a race report ever since but I may have waited too long... here's the short of it (for now, anyway)...<br /></div><ul style="text-align: justify;"><li>The course was 1.93 mile loops with approx. 430ft. of elevation gain per.</li><li>I ran 25 loops in 11 hours and 40 minutes for a total of 48.25 miles and approx. 10,750 ft. total elevation.</li><li>I ran ~13 loops with Terry</li><li>I ran 1 of those 13 in an Elvis costume </li><li>Some of my favorite running folks were out there, a few were missing too</li><li>Bob meet me at the end of one of the loops, we chatted and he took a few pics (above and below)</li><li>Over all, I had a grand old time at this race</li><li>I apologize that this race report sucks as bad as it does.</li></ul><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemPziFDvHG0GCbXPr0qGHY8CrXYIRqa5Awlv6rj3i2CdVGLOpFnxBbdysvgOtNOb0dwUkwuQXe5a2YORIz95HQaP8ZjYeQs01jxn8YRY2ISW3YXQOG6cYDa5lfv0kIGHk1q6e/s1600/IMG_0162.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemPziFDvHG0GCbXPr0qGHY8CrXYIRqa5Awlv6rj3i2CdVGLOpFnxBbdysvgOtNOb0dwUkwuQXe5a2YORIz95HQaP8ZjYeQs01jxn8YRY2ISW3YXQOG6cYDa5lfv0kIGHk1q6e/s400/IMG_0162.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404785660200995106" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">('I want a grilled ham & cheese <span style="font-style: italic;">this</span> big!')</span><br /></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-88652575753265325162009-10-02T12:56:00.000-07:002009-10-05T10:34:38.358-07:00Hundred in the Hood!<div style="text-align: justify;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI7kalO-pLDbtfULBExfTQNAr3Fh1UboHOSUDVGt6-d1K-dCutCiHnpdoACZPbGMsphAl05hf2EvDswuqe3ckcJddziidnu1xT-gBvYNFTMyqhip3fsgFxyy_RzmXBpDuZwVX_/s1600-h/sporthill-t-shirt-6.gif"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 260px; height: 108px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI7kalO-pLDbtfULBExfTQNAr3Fh1UboHOSUDVGt6-d1K-dCutCiHnpdoACZPbGMsphAl05hf2EvDswuqe3ckcJddziidnu1xT-gBvYNFTMyqhip3fsgFxyy_RzmXBpDuZwVX_/s400/sporthill-t-shirt-6.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389168936797862162" border="0" /></a>Shortly after being notified by my wife that she would be visiting her grandmother in Iowa at the end of September, my eyes were glued to race calendars, I know I get bored easily and am always looking for something to do (that's still fun) when ever she's away. I was surprised to see that my local options were quite limited, it came down to 2 races, the <a href="http://www.bellinghambaymarathon.org/">Bellingham Bay Marathon</a> or <a href="http://www.pctultra.com/100/index.htm">the Hundred in the Hood</a>, the major obstacle with both being expenses. Right away, I knew which race I was more interested in, here's how I saw it, I could pay $110 to run 26.2 miles with about 1400 other runners (including the half marathoners and 5Kers) on the streets of a city I've been to numerous times -OR- I could drop an extra $40, get to run an extra 73.8 miles (turns out it was even more than that) on the famous <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Crest_Trail">Pacific Crest Trail</a> which I had yet to step foot on in any state! Again, the decision seemed simple.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />After wrangling up some spare $$ (thank you record collection, I knew I kept you around for some reason), arranging a dog sitter (thank you Zale & Morrie), and working out travel arrangements (HUGE thank you <a href="http://tcgotlegs.blogspot.com/">Tony</a>, Shawn, & Bob), all that was left to do was the small matter of running 100 miles!<br /><br />Friday morning I headed to Shawn's house and meet with her and Tony, soon we were on the road to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Government_Camp,_Oregon">Government Camp, OR</a>. After checking into the hotel (again, HUGE thank you Tony & Shawn) we headed to the race's starting line where packet pick-up was being held, there we said our hellos to a few familiar runners and after a little while headed back into town for pizza and an early retirement to the mattress.<br /><br />The next morning 3:00am came as early as it sounds like it might, never the less, it was up and at 'em, we got prepared, checked out of the hotel, and drove to the race start with a good half hour or so to spare. The morning was surprisingly chilly and I ended up spending most of the spare time staying toasty in the car, with about 10 minutes 'til the start we headed up and schmoozed a bit with some familiar faces. While waiting for the start I was able to find <a href="http://runningfurther.blogspot.com/">Rob</a>, he and I had emailed back and forth a bit prior to the race discussing the idea of shooting for a sub-24 hour finish, we had decided that we'd give it a shot but that ultimately, finishing was still the main priority.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRssTs91N4XlwQ-FDGYr15fSf3UZJdDHjfOMTjuuilvriJS8_i-pMSLV8VANJO3ii2uMCB6epJPLSubBOcdnKkBUDf3j37ioKGSh_Pje_gxyk7okpI0ThV08VnE_QxGvInhxZ2/s1600-h/3962919192_71da986e33.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRssTs91N4XlwQ-FDGYr15fSf3UZJdDHjfOMTjuuilvriJS8_i-pMSLV8VANJO3ii2uMCB6epJPLSubBOcdnKkBUDf3j37ioKGSh_Pje_gxyk7okpI0ThV08VnE_QxGvInhxZ2/s400/3962919192_71da986e33.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389165295561232898" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(Mt. Hood from about 12 miles in - Photo by Danni Coffman)</span><br /><br /></div>At 5am <a href="http://runmoretalkless.blogspot.com/">Olga</a>, the co-race director (who, by the way has a great race report on here blog - follow the link), said "GO!" and we were off, into the darkness. I allowed Rob to take the lead, knowing I have no abilities when it comes to even pacing, and soon we were in the woods on the PCT where we would spend the majority of the run. The early going portions, I don't think, could be considered 'technical' but in the dark they did require a bit of consideration prior to each step, but as the hours went forward the trail became smoother and soon the day light was enough to guide our way. Once the headlamp was turned off I really came alive, besides avoiding bees (who managed to sting 3 different runners who were near me, but didn't get me), I was really enjoying my time on the trail, the miles seemed to rush by and before I knew I found myself at the turn around of the first out and back section of the race (mile 14 at Frog Lake). At the aid station I grabbed a few snacks, refilled my water bottle, and was quickly out again.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWxOlJtdIZg3hi745442QhSDqy0tIcvGljd0-oaW0PeCqJF7eUXYhtXPacUug2SfrgFw5WXy7sdQtchhTaLN7c7sf2AstaSoC4DbumZIcnUJexeGF4OQJ2JbysC-Qj0u96Kyxp/s1600-h/3962922028_41d8c69cd5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWxOlJtdIZg3hi745442QhSDqy0tIcvGljd0-oaW0PeCqJF7eUXYhtXPacUug2SfrgFw5WXy7sdQtchhTaLN7c7sf2AstaSoC4DbumZIcnUJexeGF4OQJ2JbysC-Qj0u96Kyxp/s400/3962922028_41d8c69cd5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389165409229944562" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(The sun begins to sneak through the woods - Photo by Danni Coffman)</span><br /><br /></div>The next 14 miles to the 'Horse Camp' aid station flew by even quicker, though I know it is not the case, in my memory the whole distance was a gradual, fast down hill just begging to be run. I felt so comfortable and loose as I cruised down it was ridiculous. When I did arrive at the 'Horse Camp' aid station I couldn't believe 28 miles had already fallen away, in that time I had been treated to great trail conditions and wonderful views of Mt. Hood and Timothy Lake.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzw3UR_hh-DIjkKTTDWg9viUUN3krMl9TsGGaFrPePo7KKtOwmwLl3IJVgCdoEJaBOwZDs8tMOMJz-oreNRO-2rK3O23qkFyhwmzTuIYuq3yoyLaRf_23RPZTiLbiO7j0SSe6/s1600-h/3962923790_b73ba3bdcf.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzw3UR_hh-DIjkKTTDWg9viUUN3krMl9TsGGaFrPePo7KKtOwmwLl3IJVgCdoEJaBOwZDs8tMOMJz-oreNRO-2rK3O23qkFyhwmzTuIYuq3yoyLaRf_23RPZTiLbiO7j0SSe6/s400/3962923790_b73ba3bdcf.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389165515968312978" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(Up along the trail on a perfect day for running- photo by Danni Coffman)<br /><br /></span></div>As the race progressed, Rob and I began to get separated on occasion, Rob had run 70+ miles at the <a href="http://www.cascaderunningclub.com/plain100.html">Plain 100</a> less than 2 weeks prior, and as a result, I was just 'feeling' some portions of the race more than he was at the time. I would run ahead then walk for a while until Rob would come up fast on my heals, we kept this going for some time until, at one aid station, Warm Springs Meadows I believe (mile 38.5), I took an extended detour into the woods, working on some, umm, 'secondary business,' when I emerged back on to the trail I was unaware of whether or not I had been passed so I decided to go on as if I had been, it turns out that Rob still was behind me at this point but that wouldn't be known for hours.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRXWGVuTh_gGXcoLa-5_VnZgdk_VrUaqcYrCQXiAX0yRpOWJth_YYxrV8y_BMFn0BZILwJFMqsLhRBA40gCN339TZnZzws18nl4dnXW_f_RfFnKZZf-ieAu1iTxBWJvIvp2nPb/s1600-h/9630_164416167068_556302068_4268679_5161627_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRXWGVuTh_gGXcoLa-5_VnZgdk_VrUaqcYrCQXiAX0yRpOWJth_YYxrV8y_BMFn0BZILwJFMqsLhRBA40gCN339TZnZzws18nl4dnXW_f_RfFnKZZf-ieAu1iTxBWJvIvp2nPb/s400/9630_164416167068_556302068_4268679_5161627_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389165995398934402" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(About to begin the second out and back - Photo by Lucinda Iglesias)</span><br /><br /></div>The miles between Warm Springs and the Olallie Meadows camp grounds (mile 55) now seem uneventful in my mind, though I can specifically remember my amusement as I headed into the 'Pinheads' aid station and continually passing and being passed by the same two runners as we headed away form it. I guess that since the miles were not momentously bad or good the only portion I really recall well is the brief mile or so that leads off the PCT to the camp ground at mile 55.<br /><br />When I sat down at Olallie Meadows I changed my socks and shoes, attempted to address some blister issues on the heal of my left foot, and proceeded to eat most everything in site. The volunteers at Olallie were amazing, rushing around making sure each runner had what they needed and then some, I must admit this did make the getting up and leaving all the more unappealing, never the less, I did eventually get up and was once again on my way.<br /><br />From 55 to the Olallie Lake aid station at mile 58.3 I ran alone, despite the actually distance, this portion seemed long but soon enough I was once again being greeted by friendly volunteers (including a guitar strumming, beer drinking, singer who welcomed runners as we approached)!<br /><br />I had been feeling good through out the race, but as I continued on to Breitenbush Lake at mile 65 time, time seemed to slow, and miles dropped off slower and slower. At one point, on my way up the hill that way clearly between myself and the aid station, I caught up with Gilles (whom, <a href="http://keep-me-honest.blogspot.com/2009/08/stormy-100.html">you may remember</a> I spent the night running with at <a href="http://homepage.mac.com/designr2/stormy/">STORMY</a>), I asked him how much further and he told me that the runner who had just past us going the opposite direction (on the "back" portion of this out and back) told him he had left the aid station 40 minutes (!) ago... I was stunned... how could it still be that much further?<br /><br />Eventually though, I did arrive, I promptly sat down and soon was talking with 'Mike,' a Californian runner who was attempting his first 100. While talking it became apparent that he was in a bit of a jam, it seems he was with out his drop bag due to some miscommunication between himself and his crew, it was getting cold out and he nothing but what clothes he was already in, I loaned him some cheapo gloves and an extra shirt to layer over what he was already wearing and soon we both headed back into the woods. Once on the trail, it seemed to me the the head lamp Mike was wearing may not be adequate, I insisted he take my hand held flash light as well in case we ended up getting separated, soon there after, that's just what happened. I, for some reason, had gotten my second wind as night fell and was now running good again, eventually I lost sight of Mike behind me but continued forward knowing needed to take advantage of any strong running I had left.<br /><br />Between 65 and the next aid station at mile 71.4 crossed paths with Rob once again, obviously he was behind me but I was glad to see that he appeared to be moving well so imagine my surprise when I got to the next aid station and there he sat, wrapped up in a blanket sitting next to the fire. He told me he had decided to drop back at mile 65 and was given a ride up to this aid station, I was disappointed for him as I know he was really hoping for a finish, but I won't begin to pretend that I know how it feels to run 70 at Plain and then another 65 less than 2 weeks later, especially knowing that we had both gone out too fast.<br /><br />I joined Mark Dahlby on the way out of the aid station, together we ran for quite some time. At mile 75, the second visit to Olallie Meadows camp grounds, I once again changed my socks as Mark mumbled a bit about dropping, after a little shit talking from me and some pampering from a very helpful aid station volunteer, we were back on our feet, trying to stay warm as we headed back to the 'Pinheads' aid station.<br /><br />Despite the good company from Dahlby, miles 75 to 'pinheads' at 85.6 were an unquestionable low spot for me. The entire 10 or so miles, I struggled trying to regulate my temperature going back and forth between too cold and too warm, on the few occasions that I did feel comfortable drowsiness would creep in, and my sleepy feelings were only worsened when the batteries in my head lamp began to dim. Mark did his best to keep me going though I am confident that I slowed us both down considerably, at one point I even needed to use his hand held as my headlamp had dimmed just too much to be useful. When we finally got to 'Pinheads' I was a mess, i sat down to change my batteries and was soon falling asleep being cared for by the volunteers like an ER patient. I told Mark to be on his way, as he was clearly moving better than I was and I had already wasted enough of his time as he waited there for me.<br /><br />When I finally did head out, I was lucky enough to quickly end up on the heals of 2 more CA runners, <a href="http://montanacoffman.blogspot.com/2009/09/hundred-in-hood-introduction-after-dnf.html">Danni</a> & Chris, they first offered to let me pass, but I had just worked hard to catch up with them and when I declined, Danni asked if I wanted to stick with them for a while, I jumped at the opportunity and was thrilled to have company. Despite the fact that I had gone back out on the trail on my own accord, I was still feeling, mentally, very fuzzy, and I can say for a fact that had I not joined up with these two I would have really been stuck in my rut.<br /><br />I ran with Danni & Chris up until the last 3 miles or so, at which point I decided I'd see what, if anything, I has left. Shortly after breaking off and moving ahead of them I paused and sat on a log (don't ask me why, I really can't say except that I was feeling sorry for my self) very soon after I heard Chris's voice instructing me to "go on, git!," it made me laugh and got my ass in gear one last time, from that point on moved forward with purpose, running a good chunk and walking with determination when running didn't feel like an option. Finally, I saw the turn off on to the road which I knew lead to the finish, I began to run and didn't stop 'til I crossed the line, relieved and exhausted. My official finish time was 28:56:19, almost an hour faster than my STORMY finish time.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin7Zf3wcRadr2PefflJ_ltrKdDPOQ-i2AHmgxPijuxVBggQmldOScgreMw4HMRsQlJqJXEqaJm_SgkxVhQ5iY_-plISTjU_tLW2uqQDaN34hJPwmxllejtFICyulrIWtowDVsd/s1600-h/8726_1219151952520_1040531216_679332_6142043_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin7Zf3wcRadr2PefflJ_ltrKdDPOQ-i2AHmgxPijuxVBggQmldOScgreMw4HMRsQlJqJXEqaJm_SgkxVhQ5iY_-plISTjU_tLW2uqQDaN34hJPwmxllejtFICyulrIWtowDVsd/s400/8726_1219151952520_1040531216_679332_6142043_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389166072257134930" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(At the finish line with co-race director Olga - Photo by Allison Moore)<br /><br /></span></div>At the finish line I was meet by Bob (who's been frequently referenced in past posts) who drove down to see me finish and, eventually, drive me back to Washington. We stuck around for quite some time BSing with other runners and sipping on a few brews (me, not Bob ;-). We ended up seeing all but the final finisher come in and from there headed back to Government Camp to have a burger and beer at the Mt. Hood Brewery. Within about 15 minutes of leaving the restaurant, I was fast asleep in the passenger seat, I stayed that way until we were about 50 miles into WA.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8fvSbww-1cimCed4RKoatb9Aq0O3jlUBO150lERYlsphYqd4NQAfvxYjestniJFSEHJi0xXi0TI0kaNpbjsp7zu-8NTkDQrWIYoDf-4jF_bhOM8BRyDvLZ-wT2j6BO74Z7hYg/s1600-h/100hood.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8fvSbww-1cimCed4RKoatb9Aq0O3jlUBO150lERYlsphYqd4NQAfvxYjestniJFSEHJi0xXi0TI0kaNpbjsp7zu-8NTkDQrWIYoDf-4jF_bhOM8BRyDvLZ-wT2j6BO74Z7hYg/s400/100hood.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389167467457093954" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">(Surveying the damage - Photos by Allisone Moore & Bob)</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the end, I generally had a great time out at 'Hood,' though I must admit, I feel like I'm may need to be out there next year again, just because I do think I can run better and faster on that course. At this point recovery is going well and I'm looking forward to the <a href="http://www.carkeek12hour.com/">Carkeek 12 hour</a> at the end of the month, between now and then I have my first <a href="http://www.jewelrybybox.com/">half marathon</a> (weird, I know) and hopefully plenty of good training miles!<br /></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-52317968842955748832009-08-20T13:04:00.000-07:002009-08-21T14:24:07.965-07:00STORMY 100!After a half day (Wednesday) of driving from Seattle to Whistler with stops including, but not limited to, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Whidbey</span> Island and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Squamish</span>, followed by a full day (Thursday) of hiking and adventuring on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Blackcomb</span> and Whistler Mountain, Friday morning came early.<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFecW2LP1Zs_HxurAf3_eHUjZ7smaPU_5oxghDOvMwBcv5UYWjba4gCaGtv6KbQKJD35xlIebZt9fVsKdQ_0ZzhxGMG4NNSYU-wgkYvmTUofNohOmmCNe_M-MbUxcywKxgjV8g/s1600-h/IMG_4117.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFecW2LP1Zs_HxurAf3_eHUjZ7smaPU_5oxghDOvMwBcv5UYWjba4gCaGtv6KbQKJD35xlIebZt9fVsKdQ_0ZzhxGMG4NNSYU-wgkYvmTUofNohOmmCNe_M-MbUxcywKxgjV8g/s400/IMG_4117.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372153884566470882" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(just prior to the start, Rachael probably wanted one last photo just in case)</span><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />Rachael & I woke up at 6am with hopes of being on the road by 7am, with an hour of winding, construction worker filled hi-way in front of us, I wasn't willing to take any chances on being on time. All went as planned, and by 8am-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">ish</span> we were in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Squamish</span> with more than enough time to spare. We briefly visited a park on the shores of Howe Sound, located the hotel for future reference, then bummed around near the starting line for a brief bit of time.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHjijv_wI4DXRlkYPn1NS7yEMbl8929EWFuXz2zg4aop3IcuHZAzkkod4EFOcjfcQk9ICNMdpe6vvS0BQdKm75UEdEk1_WZn3W95AhPIoeS3TNMq0KC4FvPTySFRqs7BexNqKm/s1600-h/5736_596491174746_508590_32648162_1065341_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHjijv_wI4DXRlkYPn1NS7yEMbl8929EWFuXz2zg4aop3IcuHZAzkkod4EFOcjfcQk9ICNMdpe6vvS0BQdKm75UEdEk1_WZn3W95AhPIoeS3TNMq0KC4FvPTySFRqs7BexNqKm/s400/5736_596491174746_508590_32648162_1065341_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372520461208541218" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(off we go! - photo by one of Thomas Villalon's crew)</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">At 10am, after a short briefing, I and 29 others (I believe) headed out of the camp ground and down the road. Early on I ran at a very slow comfortable pace, chatting with many as miles ticked off. I enjoyed early parts of the course, especially some of the forest that seemed to completely hide in residential back yards, but for the most part the first 22 miles of so went by quickly and, in truth, felt more like half that distance, I felt fresh and was still raring to go.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhTx_6r-8JqmC4LG3ts_DSIbyGHjjbqiOJ_yVnXbx7dW2pAs9zrzcXU03H5jt_4s1yzm7XasSf-oAhyphenhyphenbi0RoIPndYj5yghz5C4i5oATz-Ulhvn6r2v3k24MuKyPYif_v5hV-wz/s1600-h/3805415590_77bca6b960.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhTx_6r-8JqmC4LG3ts_DSIbyGHjjbqiOJ_yVnXbx7dW2pAs9zrzcXU03H5jt_4s1yzm7XasSf-oAhyphenhyphenbi0RoIPndYj5yghz5C4i5oATz-Ulhvn6r2v3k24MuKyPYif_v5hV-wz/s400/3805415590_77bca6b960.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372165515399594978" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">(early on with still plenty of (s)miles left... see what I did there... - photo by Bruce Grant</span><span style="font-size:78%;">)<br /><br /></span></div>For the next 8 miles or so, I ran in the company of an alternating group of the same 6 runners, lots of laughs were shared and the time felt less like a race and more like a little jaunt with friends despite the fact that I knew none of them by name. Eventually the little gang did <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">dispersed</span> though and I found my self running alone en route to the Powerhouse aid station. At Power house I once again nibbled and picked on PB&<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Js</span>, jelly beans, and various other treats, then went off to begin the long <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">trek</span> up 9 mile hill (which in reality is only 6 miles, but still).<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Yg1pKIJbgU5IzMcqu0UPRirZ-4lG5kIGxsxPGZph5_Y15DagfXbsDW-xYC9BPYY3WryQGeTyKQkdLQMO-iXc_WeDv1BgMOSdM2zf_sXQADlQQ4_8bgnSe4XoR9VN9Lu-Iubc/s1600-h/5736_596491189716_508590_32648165_5509483_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Yg1pKIJbgU5IzMcqu0UPRirZ-4lG5kIGxsxPGZph5_Y15DagfXbsDW-xYC9BPYY3WryQGeTyKQkdLQMO-iXc_WeDv1BgMOSdM2zf_sXQADlQQ4_8bgnSe4XoR9VN9Lu-Iubc/s400/5736_596491189716_508590_32648165_5509483_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372520618695500290" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(Myself and Thomas, one of 'the gang' easing back down from the University aid station</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> - photo by one of Thomas Villalon's crew</span><span style="font-size:78%;">)</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span></div><br />9 mile hill is 6 miles (I know, I know) of dirt road with plenty of small rock and divots, the majority of the 6 miles is up hill and uncovered, thankfully most of the day was overcast, and thus I was spared by the sun. At the end of 9 mile hill was another aid station, 37 miles into the race, where I was told there would be 'just a little more up hill and then a bunch of down,' as good of news as this was that little bit of up hill sure seemed like a lot more. When the down hill did <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">finally</span> appear the fist good <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">chunk</span> of it was very runnable and very fast but when the Powerhouse plunge came I was forced to pull the e-brake. The plunge is technical, steep, and would scare me to death if I were on a bike (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxWIwm3SJxU&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fvideo.google.com%2Fvideosearch%3Fhl%3Den%26safe%3Doff%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla%3Aen-US%3Aofficial%26hs%3DTVv%26resnum%3D0%26q%3Dpowerhouse&feature=player_embedded">this video</a> does a good job of showing why), though I must admit, with a little more juice in the tank, I bet it was be a blast to rip down it as it was pretty fun still pretty fun some 42 miles in!<br /><br />As I neared some where around mile 45 or so dusk was beginning to set in and I busted out a flash light. Those first few miles by flash light were a lot of fun but right after the aid station at mile 46.25 I had a moment of dread, it wasn't the dark that was messing with my head, it was the climbing, I was fine with it right there and then but knowing I'd be seeing it again with ~4 miles left made me cringe.<br /><br />Around 10:30pm I came into the half way point (also the start & finish) greeted by Racahel & a host of wonderful volunteers offering pizza(!!!), coffee(!!!), and a whole other slew of goodies and treats. Rachael fetched my drop bag and filled up my water pack for me as I quickly slipped into a fresh shirt and pair of shorts, I then proceeded to plop down, eat, and chat. After a few minutes Rachael asked me how long I planned on staying, I told her that I knew a few guys were right behind me and that I wanted to wait for them to head out into the dark with. Those two guys, Gilles and John were experienced on the course and great company to run with, we ended up sticking together the entire evening until the sun finally started to reappear. One of the great benefits of running with these two, besides the company, was Gilles wife was working the Perth aid station which meant friendly smiles, Frappuccinos (!), orange juice (!) and many more goodies that I can't swear were available to all runners! I appreciated all 3 of their presence greatly and I hope I made that abundantly clear to them.<br /><br />I was once again on my own after the 4th pass of the University aid station with nothing of real interest to note between there and the 3rd pass of the Powerhouse aid station. In fact, all I can really recall about those 3+ miles is that at one point I mistook a log for a photographer, Rachael tells me this qualifies as a hallucination, but I think I was just bleary eyed (and that the damn log really looked like a crouched person with camera in hand).<br /><br />After a quick stint at Powerhouse I once again went to begin the climb up 9 mile hill, just prior to heading up a car pulled over slowly on the dirt road and rolled down the window. I recognized the driver as a runner I had been talking to earlier in the run, I said 'Hi' and asked him if he had already finished (which, at least seemed like a reasonable question at the time), he informed me that, sadly, he had needed to drop due to blisters, I offer my condolences, we wished each other well, and then up I went. During my climb I thought to myself, 'wow those blisters must have been bad, I can't imagine how bad they'd have to be to drop; boy I sure am glad my feet are feeling good.' Famous last thoughts, I now know, with in 15 minutes I could feel numerous hot spots and blisters, and, of course, it seemed with each step I was bound to peg one of them. I began moving slower and slower until, at one point, I looked up and saw another runner a few hundred yards ahead of me, I decided to make it my goal to catch up which I eventually did. That runner was Nate who I stuck with, off and on, almost up until the 2nd plunge, once again, his company and conversation were invaluable!<br /><br />Once I got back to Powerhouse for the last time I requested some Mole Skin in order to help take some pressure off the blisters. Better than mole skin, I was directed to a search and rescue<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">volunteer who proceeded to to bandage and wrap my feet as best as possible, though the time it took to do this was a bit longer than I would have liked to stay there, it was the right move and I'm extremely grateful for the help, it made the last 7 miles that much more bearable.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4wOhJfFyuRynBZzwYgO0j40fyoPUpuo8uJOFRg95QSFfPJsR55bKlAomNpCDLS-dZW5olHAR6dnXnz_v5AKhksnpTDeejK8h638IewJ2IEW03czF23v9KMePjztz7akP0IwGC/s1600-h/3805340431_659ac9bd4c.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 260px; height: 187px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4wOhJfFyuRynBZzwYgO0j40fyoPUpuo8uJOFRg95QSFfPJsR55bKlAomNpCDLS-dZW5olHAR6dnXnz_v5AKhksnpTDeejK8h638IewJ2IEW03czF23v9KMePjztz7akP0IwGC/s400/3805340431_659ac9bd4c.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372522670711967922" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(mile 98 - that counts as a smile, right? - photo by Bruce Grant</span><span style="font-size:78%;">)<br /></span></div><br />From powerhouse to the finish, things went slowly but I was once again moving with determination, picking up my pace when ever possible and taking stock of the entire experience. As I pined for the finish line, there was a small part of me that wasn't ready for it to be over and a large part that was brimming with joy, but then, there were also my feet...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8DvlU9bY_mtH4_OUG3w6AJ2kuyfycWGzMPsTKA_g-cV8d86_-wXu1BC2YETgytMJI-zfDD_P3Qbr5PgJGDg8uF6zf7iUNeJVv7d9Oz2YTwt-vTe8RMU9Zrf13dMdRax9dIS58/s1600-h/IMG_4181.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 285px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8DvlU9bY_mtH4_OUG3w6AJ2kuyfycWGzMPsTKA_g-cV8d86_-wXu1BC2YETgytMJI-zfDD_P3Qbr5PgJGDg8uF6zf7iUNeJVv7d9Oz2YTwt-vTe8RMU9Zrf13dMdRax9dIS58/s400/IMG_4181.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372524254176967554" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(finally coming across the finish line - 29:53:05, 21st out of 22 finishers, 29 starters - photo by Rachael) </span><br /></div><br />I came into the finish line 'still smiling' greeted by the cheers of many a fellow Marathon Maniac,various others I've meet through running, and many there to support 'their' runners. The rest of the afternoon/evening was spent eating, talking, eating, drinking, eating, and sleeping (with an ice bath and shower thrown in for good measure).<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj024aHG6qI8cqZxC773r15uoFilyFMYGkcnTFVttsoeea3HGs0p2ER5AlJGaNasly96i-BkXBy2vyRGwKlcLEP3qZEy9PrU3dGwhjnZg_oTsWNdMGD3czQcnOlb7WpqzMGM3kr/s1600-h/IMG_1527.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 313px; height: 224px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj024aHG6qI8cqZxC773r15uoFilyFMYGkcnTFVttsoeea3HGs0p2ER5AlJGaNasly96i-BkXBy2vyRGwKlcLEP3qZEy9PrU3dGwhjnZg_oTsWNdMGD3czQcnOlb7WpqzMGM3kr/s400/IMG_1527.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372526889179987506" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(all I ever really wanted - photo taken from <a href="http://brendaontherun-banffandbeyond.blogspot.com/">http://brendaontherun-banffandbeyond.blogspot.com/</a>)</span><br /></div><br />In the end, as much as this was a big deal to me, I walked away with the same feelings I have at the end of most ultras, that was great(!), what fun(!), when do I get to do this again!?! The biggest difference to me is now those thought include other 100 mile races!<br /><br />Extras:<br /><ul><li>Finish time 29:53:05, 21st out of 22 finishers, 29 starters.</li><li>Thank you, thank you, thank you to Rachael for putting up with all of this and so much more, Wendy the race director and all the wonderful volunteers, and to everyone I shared the trails with, I can't wait to run with you all again!</li><li>See more photos from the rest of the Canadian trip <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/thisnic/OhCanada#">here</a></li><li><a href="http://homepage.mac.com/designr2/stormy/index.html">STORMY's web site</a><br /></li></ul></div></div></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-32473215481010301332009-07-28T15:07:00.000-07:002009-08-20T13:47:37.190-07:00White River 2009Youch! That's my one word to describe this year's White River 50 Mile Endurance Run... youch...<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />The day started off in West Seattle dark and early, 2am to be precise, I was out the door by 2:30am meeting up with Matthew in Magnolia to car pool, en route by 3am. We arrived at that race start with only minimal turning around and were soon checked in and toeing the line for the 5:30am early start.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ3cCouHvmhP_zXt0PiGYg1dAE_HK5bFmge6o2-oAxMepNP-i6tFKDhaalauxDDT7byaWOZPCkvTe6zcNU0xvz8K2-hku19Bi7uOSZ_Iwng1lgBUc_H1v9SSz4iZLUO7zR1HTI/s1600-h/8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ3cCouHvmhP_zXt0PiGYg1dAE_HK5bFmge6o2-oAxMepNP-i6tFKDhaalauxDDT7byaWOZPCkvTe6zcNU0xvz8K2-hku19Bi7uOSZ_Iwng1lgBUc_H1v9SSz4iZLUO7zR1HTI/s400/8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372148300838838818" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">('feasting' at the Buck Creek aid station 27 miles in)<br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Though I started near the front of the pack of early starters, I did not feel as though I was going out too fast and was able to settle into a reasonable pace fairly quickly. I ran the first 6 or so miles with Eric Barnes whom I could tell was going to be stronger for longer than I had in me, never the less I trailed along and talked with him while I could. Shortly after watching Eric disappear ahead of me my day really began, some where near mile 7 or 8 I started to feel early signs of cramping, though really that's only in retrospect, at the time I just thought it was brief little one-offs. Soon the one-offs added up and before I knew it my quads, thighs, and calves, on both legs, had tensed up to the point that they felt like tree stumps, I did my best to continue moving forward but I must have looked pathetic and ridiculous all at once as I stammered along attempting to move straight legged down the trail. With every bend of a knee either a quad or calve would scream. More than any other time on any other course, I entertained the idea that I may not be able to finish, I wanted to but I knew there was no way if my legs continued to feel the way they did. Thankfully, after hobbling for a short time, I asked another runner if they happened to have any <a href="http://www.succeedscaps.com/main_scaps.html">S-Caps</a>, though I hadn't taken them before, I was willing to try anything at that point. Under instruction from the fellow runner, I took 2 right then and there, and with in minutes started to feel better - not 100% by any means, but better. From that point on the race was a battle between electrolytes and cramps, one moment I'd think I was in the clear the next I'd start feeling it again, this made for a long day on the course.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhflEv9pvS6kAd0FgbJrfaEKZnvfnfNRPmeHlHNYArrVWhm31S3rXo8qiREfcIKsxNCChuVh2eBiBwezplNNOaGT0ZYodvsyTYUcsVB2ZhMox5zVTd9MRET9a0xodUGOWjVpv9R/s1600-h/299.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhflEv9pvS6kAd0FgbJrfaEKZnvfnfNRPmeHlHNYArrVWhm31S3rXo8qiREfcIKsxNCChuVh2eBiBwezplNNOaGT0ZYodvsyTYUcsVB2ZhMox5zVTd9MRET9a0xodUGOWjVpv9R/s400/299.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372148346164438674" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(...coming in for the finish, still smiling 'as always!'...)</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;">I'll spare you the long details, ups and downs, and ins and outs of the rest of the race and just stick with the 'it was a long day' cliche. I will say though, that never have I been happier to have such a catastrophic break down during a race, after all, there I was, 2 weeks out from STORMY learning invaluable lessons that would no doubt aid me in finishing 100 miles. Thanks to White River I stocked up on S-caps (and <a href="http://www.succeedscaps.com/main_clip.html">Clip 2</a>!), and, even more importantly, I got a lot of time on my feet while feeling horrible, I know that sounds unappealing, but the confidence I gained but 'gutting it out' was essential. I knew if I could go that long, feeling that bad, and still finish, that, if nothing else, I might have a chance at STOMRY.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ybvS6iexsbOMvvDmWTcmhe_zrOu-acNVxNG4Pqh1gKlFV3i2ZhCOdkXhXpVmy3jmLIG8oqRVOKKxEwGI2mSa2A2Z0aRHfvuXycUQzGqkcSWRsvuEhd4lW0qjau63dCRiYprM/s1600-h/300.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ybvS6iexsbOMvvDmWTcmhe_zrOu-acNVxNG4Pqh1gKlFV3i2ZhCOdkXhXpVmy3jmLIG8oqRVOKKxEwGI2mSa2A2Z0aRHfvuXycUQzGqkcSWRsvuEhd4lW0qjau63dCRiYprM/s400/300.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372148466515328322" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(don't be fooled by the clock, remember, I took the early start.. add an hour...)</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">All photos used above taken by race director John Wallace III.<br />More photos via Glenn Tachiyama <a href="http://www.pbase.com/gtach/image/115409392">here</a>, <a href="http://www.pbase.com/gtach/image/115421396">here</a>, & <a href="http://www.pbase.com/gtach/image/115421459">here</a><br />Finish Time: 12:39:30<br />151 out of 166 (195 starters)<br /></div></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-85145980807842424702009-06-08T14:20:00.000-07:002009-06-10T08:52:57.478-07:00A tough day...<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:78%;">(To any of you who strictly want to read about running, I apologize but this post will be a little more 'personal' than usual...)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">About a week prior to the Green River Marathon I started, once again, toying with the idea of shooting for a </span>3:30... even went so far as mention it to 2 other 'cowboy' Maniacs (sorry, that's sort of an inside joke). But 'toying with' and really planning on doing it are two different things - my 'toying with' usually means, I do what I always do and hope for the best, and I was content to do that once again, well that is, until Friday morning...<br /><br />Without going into the full details, I'll just say, I received very unexpected news Friday morning that my friend <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Stever</span> had died early that morning, losing his one year battle with Leukemia (you may remember, he was my inspiration behind the '13 in 12' this past November through February). Among the million other things in my mind, was the thought that I wouldn't be running the next day, I was fine with that, but as the day progressed I was told by both <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Stever's</span> wife and mother that I should run. Johanna, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Stever's</span> wife phrased it perfectly, she told me 'we have to do what we know how to do, I now how to garden on my hands and knees in the dirt and you know how to run... I'm going to garden tomorrow morning... you should run.' I can't say I was sure it would be the right decision, but never the less, I said I'd do it.<br /><br />Friday night was a fairly late evening and Saturday morning seemed to come quite early (despite the 8:30am start time). I woke up, put on my shorts and "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Stever's</span> Fan Club" t-shirt, and prepared to head out. Once at the starting line I felt very out of place waiting for the race to begin, I couldn't exactly ignore other runners that I know but at the same time, I couldn't really announce 'hey, I'm only kinda, sorta here right now.' I faked my way through a few conversations and waited for the start.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcNA1VR00aq57EbEWcy3-AJMQ2fggxj0nNiJaFq2mm3z2uNzdLetaSPNg3vX4LJ6uodpkw8cHnTLFzY89Pc2W8JwePE1mysX8sWcXvQwu88LyLT_D31Xx3ZWBojYh2J1U5EwL-/s1600-h/IMG_0100.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 217px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcNA1VR00aq57EbEWcy3-AJMQ2fggxj0nNiJaFq2mm3z2uNzdLetaSPNg3vX4LJ6uodpkw8cHnTLFzY89Pc2W8JwePE1mysX8sWcXvQwu88LyLT_D31Xx3ZWBojYh2J1U5EwL-/s400/IMG_0100.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345078442643023762" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Stever's</span> Fan Club shirt, only mine is orange)</span><br /></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Once the race began I kept to myself</span> for about a whole 5 minutes, something about running makes me talkative I guess. I said 'hi' to a few familiar maniacs including race director Steve <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Barrick</span>, and eventually found my self running with *<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">tc</span> (does he go by that name anymore?) and Pete Nicholson (MM # 207), whom I hadn't meet before. *<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">tc</span> blazed ahead after a bout a half mile but Pete and I continued to run the same pace for the first 14 miles, give or take. Pete's company allowed for good conversation, but regardless of what we talked about (mainly running, go figure) my thoughts would always drift back to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Stever</span> and his wife and family. Eventually, I just said what was on my mind - poor, Pete, I sure I was sort of a downer - I had to though, verbalizing it only seemed fair, it was that, or I could continue to try and hold a conversation while occasionally zoning out.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmrPvyli1P3I45jU38_aQcFXodTOmtO-ZcPxhpgGo544CFO_zbvqXaYFtSFyoKRaYE76qx3qKKn9TdUZTK9Gq051DBIgihcd7-FqWMUT15dsUrV-w6sc_fyKBdH91fulGUmRxf/s1600-h/grm092.bmp"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmrPvyli1P3I45jU38_aQcFXodTOmtO-ZcPxhpgGo544CFO_zbvqXaYFtSFyoKRaYE76qx3qKKn9TdUZTK9Gq051DBIgihcd7-FqWMUT15dsUrV-w6sc_fyKBdH91fulGUmRxf/s400/grm092.bmp" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345447884100006034" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(Pete looking strong, me, on the other hand - I'm just <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">keepin</span>' up)</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />Somewhere around mile 14, Pete told me he was going to peel off and use a rest room, I was fairly confident I'd see him again as he was still running strong and I really had no idea how long these 8 minute miles would last. I continued on, keeping an eye on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Garmin</span> trying my best to stick to the pace. At about mile 17 I caught up with *<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">tc</span> and asked him if he had a 3:30 in him, he said he didn't (he was still recovering from a recent 100 miler) but suggest I try and keep up with the person in front of us for pacing, we wished each other well and I continued on pushing my pace.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Sq6ejeqQ_ACpIpF-ub73cLa_SCDzeXpaLbVexSQQZPTtOpi8Rco-RY5rqebZZqNqr7d4evfiwQrmioAqCk9a498RKuf3xHJoub_Rcnt6Itz6t8DWU3ZCcGOhybq_6hcvAxbh/s1600-h/grm09.bmp"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Sq6ejeqQ_ACpIpF-ub73cLa_SCDzeXpaLbVexSQQZPTtOpi8Rco-RY5rqebZZqNqr7d4evfiwQrmioAqCk9a498RKuf3xHJoub_Rcnt6Itz6t8DWU3ZCcGOhybq_6hcvAxbh/s400/grm09.bmp" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345446601731318226" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(Essential running gear for Saturday 6/6: fake smile & "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Stever's</span> Fan Club" t-shirt)</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />By the time mile 23 came I felt spent, I opted to walk momentarily for just a short break, as will sometimes happen that walk just kept getting longer and longer - 'the next light pole... no, no, the <span style="font-style: italic;">next</span> light pole...' I was literally walking away from the 3:30 goal. I thought long about my next move, I thought about <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Stever</span>, and, despite not being a spiritual person, I thought <span style="font-style: italic;">to</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Stever</span>... I thought about all that was going on, then I started to run again... hard.<br /><br />Miles 24 through 26 were sub 8 minute miles with the final .2 being run at a sub 7 minute mile pace. I felt every step of it. I finished gasping for air and drenched in sweat with a 3:29:39 to show for the effort . As soon as the running stopped the hobbling began, my right foot had cramped up right under my arch, it felt like I had a softball lodged in my foot. I wiggled my way down the beach, took off my socks and shoes, and stood in the sound for a few moments hoping the cold waters might help - it did, but only slightly. I hobbled around a bit more until I was able to arrange a ride home from the ever helpful and friendly Jon <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Yoon</span> (MM# 467).<br /><br />That's essentially it, I must admit, I'm at a loss on how to end this post, so I'll instead of a tidy little wrap up, I'll just say this... right now, until June 22<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">nd</span>, the National Marrow Donor Program is offering Marrow Donor Registry kits for free, these kits are simple and give you the opportunity to possibly save a life. Please follow this link, 'click the "Join" button, and GET REGISTERED! - <a href="http://www.marrow.org/">http://www.marrow.org/</a><br /></div></div></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-14829858769913108482009-04-22T14:29:00.000-07:002009-05-13T11:20:55.488-07:00Mt Si '09 ('full' report)<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:78%;">(jeeze, maybe it's just that I was raised Catholic, but this feels like some kind of confessional or something...)</span><br /><br />After a poor race at Dizzy Daze, I was left feeling burnt out and detached from running, I suspected that this would eventually burn off but as the days went on, I continued to ignore any urges to train. The first week I felt justified, I was angry and frustrated and felt some time away would help. The second week, I first was confused, thinking Mt. Si was that coming weekend (and thus defending it as 'tapering'), then, when I realized the date mistakes, it was just good old fashioned laziness. By the beginning of week 3 of no running, the guilt was finally starting to set in, by the end of that week the desire was back, but, of course, Sunday was the race, so that just meant, 'a little bit longer.' It's a strange feeling standing at the start of a 50 mile race after not having run for 3 weeks solid, it almost feels like your cheating, and I guess in some ways I was... but for the time being, that was gonna have to do.<br /><br />The start also felt odd with so many of the 'usual suspects' not being there; between McNaughton recovery, Boston the next day, and the next week's Capitol Peaks, there were a whole slew of missing faces. For me, there was very little conversation to be had, a chat here or there, but nothing that lasted more than a half mile.<br /><br />Despite what I had planned, I still managed to do my first 14 or so miles too fast, but as hard as it is to get going again post bonk, it's quite tough to slow down when you're raring to go. When I hit the aid station at mile 14 I refilled my bottle, grabbed some potatoes, and walked my way from the aid station until I finished eating. Within a mile (at most) my stomach told me the potatoes were not a good idea. The stomach cramps were bad, I knew I needed to get to the next 'rest stop' and the sooner the better...<br /><br />(Fast forwarding for you, the reader's sake)<br /><br />...I left the 'rest stop' feeling better, but unfortunately, much more tired than I should have been only ~18 miles in. The rest of the race was fairly uneventful (which is another way of saying, the course was boring me to tears), I walked more than I should have and was looking at the Garmin far too much but in the end, I finished.<br /><br />I finished faster than I did last year, which I guess counts for something but, despite being kinda sick of the course, I hope to be out there again next year, better trained and eying an 8 hour finish (I know that's a big jump, but I think it's possible). More than anything, I'm just happy to be resurrected...<br /><br />Now let's go train!<br /><br />(...and not to down play it by any means, but as usual there are 2 people I need to thank for their constant support, my wife Rachael & my good friend Bob, together, they came from Seattle to see me go by at mile 47 and then watch me finish. After returning home they waited as I bathed, then the 3 of us headed out for burgers, and in my case beer! The promise of seeing the 2 of them at the finish line is always reason enough to get there :-)<br /></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-63119185669266923122009-04-21T15:26:00.001-07:002009-04-22T10:56:02.703-07:00Mt. Si '09<div style="text-align: justify;">I'll get to an actual race report soon enough, but for now, here's the skinny...<br /><br />50 Miles - 9:05:26 (17 odd minutes faster than last year) - not great, not terrible, and when ever it's not terrible, well, then it's pretty damn great!<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHUXBJ32uh9c4e0j_yA8X8lyx6lvvFebsk4z5CDPj4OPLmEoh4EPauxsFqrRWSqJ7uekqOJR0W5gW0ZDsPf4jZFtYuDZoQz_GkKFCtKDqCV3pyaxsP8qSi6IQip6PSyxqH0fXh/s1600-h/517760616_ixyVf-XL.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHUXBJ32uh9c4e0j_yA8X8lyx6lvvFebsk4z5CDPj4OPLmEoh4EPauxsFqrRWSqJ7uekqOJR0W5gW0ZDsPf4jZFtYuDZoQz_GkKFCtKDqCV3pyaxsP8qSi6IQip6PSyxqH0fXh/s400/517760616_ixyVf-XL.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327275279213478738" border="0" /></a>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-91158490362512626012009-04-17T11:49:00.001-07:002009-04-17T12:04:25.727-07:00Time to saddle up!<div style="text-align: justify;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNGZyK4d4xbUhuZkmXEDPOzMFCsxLYcn5JGo2r6oEwsssLINHtyykS-DczUtGSAGeQvOxrca0DKCEqM69vfVVWBAxF2Pf7UoKB6-zYdo7VRFBvX2h4YiwSHNuYsf7F54HTFCyS/s1600-h/MtSilogo.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 380px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNGZyK4d4xbUhuZkmXEDPOzMFCsxLYcn5JGo2r6oEwsssLINHtyykS-DczUtGSAGeQvOxrca0DKCEqM69vfVVWBAxF2Pf7UoKB6-zYdo7VRFBvX2h4YiwSHNuYsf7F54HTFCyS/s400/MtSilogo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325738041682439874" border="0" /></a>Well, since the disappointment that came with Dizzy Daze 'performance,' I had fallen off the proverbial running horse. Yes, some valuable training time was lost BUT, mentally, I'm back, and that's pretty important since Sunday is the <a href="http://www.freewebs.com/aschuehle/">Mt. Si 50 Mile</a>.<br /><br />I probably should be a little more concerned than I am about the time lost but I'm anticipating an alright run on Sunday with plans of beating my time from last year (9:22:53), not necessarily because I'm in better shape, but more so because I know what to expect and have gotten (a little) better at pacing myself.<br /><br />Like I said though, most importantly, I'm excited to run, something I haven't completely felt since Dizzy Daze, and now, just 2 days out, I'm down right itching to go. So yeah, "saddle up!," "get along little doggies!," and "rawhide!" and all that other good stuff...<br /><br />See you 50 miles from now!<br /></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-81613603836910362772009-04-09T11:18:00.000-07:002009-04-09T12:05:38.840-07:00Dizzy Daze 100K (...err, make that 50K)<div style="text-align: justify;">Alright, I've put this off long enough... truth be told, I just didn't want to write a post filled with excuses *but* at the same time I wanted to honestly tell it how I saw it... I'm still not really prepared to write an essay thought either, so you get a summarized version...<br /></div><ul style="text-align: justify;"><li>the day started early at 5am when I headed out on the first loop with *tc and Shawn, all was well and I enjoyed the company...</li><li>...around loop 3 the 'regular' starters were beginning to arrive - this is also when I first realized I had forgotten to tape up my, um, 'chest', so I stopped by the car and did so...</li><li>At some point I decided I'd bust out the iPod shuffle - I can't even tell you the last time I listened to music while running - though I don't think it had any impact on my day, I don't foresee myself doing it again anytime soon...</li><li>I ran a loop with Linda, the first lady of the race (ie: race director's girlfriend) which was nice as, at that point, I hadn't had company in quite a while (not counting people passing me)</li><li>around the finish of loop 6 I changed my undershirt because I was soaking wet from the rain - I was also very cold...</li><li>I didn't consider dropping until midway through my 10th loop, even then, it was a fleeting thought that I sort of laughed off</li><li>At the end of loop 10, I jumped in the car, changed my shirt and socks - at that point I was still convinced I was heading out for another 10 loops - in the 10 minutes it took me to change out of my wet clothing and get into fresh stuff a lot of things ran through my mind, more than anything, it occurred to me that the clothing I was putting on was my last set of dry, warm clothing, that also lead my mind to the idea of circling the lake for another (at the VERY least) 5+ hours.</li><li>I got out of the car and checked in with the aid station (still with intentions of going on) - some how it came up (I'm sure questioned by myself) that it appeared there was going to be maybe one 100K finisher... maybe... for some reason that's what got me... I stood around for about 3 minutes sort of talking with the volunteers but really just contemplating what I was going to do... then I just looked to them and said... 'I think I'm gonna call it...' and that was that...</li><li>some how I couldn't wrap my head around being out there another 5+ hours wet, cold, and feeling the way I was...</li><li>after an ice bath, a warm shower, food, and a nap I woke up and looked out the window, it was still shitty out, then I looked at the clock and realized that I'd still be running had I stuck it out... as much as I was disappointed to not be finishing, I was still happy to not be running... it was an odd feeling...</li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;">...so here's what I've come to terms with... I <span style="font-weight: bold;">did</span> quit, I'm sure I was capable of finishing but mentally I just quit, plain and simple... I'm not proud to say I quit but I still see it as the right choice for me on that particular day... I feel like had I had a proper water proof top I would have at least lasted longer... having the car there every 3.1 miles was a temptation I had a hard time dealing with in the end... I'm glad my next race is further than a 50K, assuming all goes well, 50 mile should reaffirm my confidence.<br /></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-49870486501739304282009-03-25T10:40:00.000-07:002009-03-25T10:44:09.232-07:00Is it Saturday yet?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTlM6Mb6Tysf0O31N93V_CACnX55emoLzuCbvR_0McJTBZHGTyR_30QCTfG-KS21xeETdaPP6JXuvudqz2e72c9thyOwctVQvFp6AkhVquptRVCt8DKd8ZHpk7yyQPSjIQr4gp/s1600-h/dizzy+daze+shirt+design+001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 309px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTlM6Mb6Tysf0O31N93V_CACnX55emoLzuCbvR_0McJTBZHGTyR_30QCTfG-KS21xeETdaPP6JXuvudqz2e72c9thyOwctVQvFp6AkhVquptRVCt8DKd8ZHpk7yyQPSjIQr4gp/s400/dizzy+daze+shirt+design+001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317182493522276386" border="0" /></a>Can we pretend it is?<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />Please???<br /><br /></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-10203625890084952782009-03-13T08:55:00.000-07:002009-03-13T09:58:58.582-07:00Good week of running (so far)...<br /><br />Sunday - sidewalks/streets - <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/thisnic/29?authkey=Gv1sRgCOOc48KchankCA#5312703067392107074">29 miles</a> (Avg. pace - 9:08/mile)<br />Monday - rest<br />Tuesday - sidewalks/streets - <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/thisnic/29?authkey=Gv1sRgCOOc48KchankCA#5312716812385208626">5 miles</a> (Avg. pace - 7:13/mile)<br />Wednesday - trails - 5.65 miles (Avg. Pace - Garmin batteries died a mile in, but it was relatively slow, I'd guess 8:30/mile )<br />Thursday - sidewalks/streets - <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/thisnic/29?authkey=Gv1sRgCOOc48KchankCA#5312716819753013170">6 miles</a> (Avg. Pace - 7:35/mile)<br />Friday (today) - rest<br /><br />Also, I finally got around to registering for <a href="http://www.databarevents.com/dizzy.asp">Green Lake Dizzy Daze 100K</a><br /><br />And, created another 'race,' the <a href="http://elliotbayultras.blogspot.com/">Elliot Bay Ultras</a> 50K & 50 Mile (I'll be running the 50 Mile)Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-41558525273007332912009-03-05T10:44:00.000-08:002009-03-06T10:08:16.943-08:00<div style="text-align: justify;">I go around the webz looking to read updated blogs to see the same posts I've read over a week ago and I think to myself 'man, why doesn't anyone update'... POT, KETTLE, BLACK...<br /><br />Not much to say though, I guess... I've been 'training' with a lot more regularity as of late, that's a good thing. I also have dedicated to running the <a href="http://www.databarevents.com/dizzy.asp">Green Lake Dizzy Daze 100K</a> so that's pretty exciting. Just to be sure we're on the same page, 100K is a little more than 12 miles further than I've ever run (62 miles +), so yeah, like I said, exciting, but also a little daunting. I'm confident I can cover the distance, but never the less, anytime it's a 'further than ever before' situation I think it's best to go into with a few reservations and a cautious approach, I rather finish slower than I'm capable of than not finish because I attempted to push too hard.<br /><br />I'm now planning a long run for Saturday since I'm officially 'off the hook' from 'mother-in-law time' this weekend, I'm not sure how long but I'm guessing I'll have plenty of time to log miles... I'll post something sometime next week...<br /></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-46529696271062172822009-02-24T13:34:00.001-08:002009-02-24T13:42:03.050-08:00long time<div style="text-align: justify;">Howdee,<br /><br />I know it's been a while but that doesn't mean I'm going to post a lot, just a quick catch up...<br /><br /></div><ul style="text-align: justify;"><li>Way back on 2/8 I ran the Valentine Marathon, you can read about it here... <a href="http://13in12.blogspot.com/2009/02/13.html">http://13in12.blogspot.com/2009/02/13.html</a></li><li>That was #13 of the '13 in 12' - it upped my Maniac status to 7 Stars...<br /></li><li>After, I took about a week and a half away from running...</li><li>I'm still getting back into the swing of things at this point...</li><li>I'm thinking my next race will be the <a href="http://www.databarevents.com/dizzy.asp">Green Lake Dizzy Daze 100K</a>, though I am not yet registered, I hope to be soon...</li><li>On Saturday (2/28) I intend to do a Tiger Mountain 3 Summits run with a few fellow Maniacs</li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;">Here's a little collage I made of the '13 in 12'...<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbipeG0h-RnLVcsO3YtPhCsjOzOsHyvynVe2tMALPcWU_deJbrpzZixdoyOi87oRa-7EPaJw90ASvbfivbCKpSVnVQw9ExEKpFj-SVfqtOy5mRZUe9jgNjjU1qagQPSLn50s8n/s1600-h/new+12-12.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbipeG0h-RnLVcsO3YtPhCsjOzOsHyvynVe2tMALPcWU_deJbrpzZixdoyOi87oRa-7EPaJw90ASvbfivbCKpSVnVQw9ExEKpFj-SVfqtOy5mRZUe9jgNjjU1qagQPSLn50s8n/s400/new+12-12.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306482267063681634" border="0" /></a>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-6380721733355339842009-02-03T15:02:00.000-08:002009-02-03T15:08:15.212-08:00WSFA50KThis past Sunday was an all together new experience for me, for this was my first attempt at race directing.<br /><br />Because of the type of person I am, the majority of the race preparation occurred the evening prior. I had a firm idea of what I wanted to do and how I wanted to do it, it was just a matter of getting it done. I constructed medals, 'made' Gatorade and PB&<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Js</span>, marked the turn around with chalk under the cover of night, and acquired a few other materials such as fire wood.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiqYD_ZSZdbhRHR-TkVurUpnBZS9c7jme2f_uyVWVuYysQGjU8btxN0lK6W5NTL0CqwVCsa4L9OQh7ZgpjV7b2CEa_iXduo76PTkZSDNplGBOO3cOKLtOurjkOLpEPBGye5fI7HA/s1600-h/IMG_3255.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiqYD_ZSZdbhRHR-TkVurUpnBZS9c7jme2f_uyVWVuYysQGjU8btxN0lK6W5NTL0CqwVCsa4L9OQh7ZgpjV7b2CEa_iXduo76PTkZSDNplGBOO3cOKLtOurjkOLpEPBGye5fI7HA/s400/IMG_3255.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298708747074412754" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(There! They're done - can I go to bed yet? What to you mean, 'Did I make the PB&<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Js</span>?')</span><br /></div><br />The next morning my wife and drug our selves out of bed and headed down to Lincoln Park in order to get set up. As we arrived it became apparent that despite what was posted, the parking lots were still locked up (they remained this way until well past the start of the race). Thankfully, there is a relatively good amount of parking available on local side streets and the majority of fellow runners were able to adjust quickly.<br /><br />My good friend Bob, also greeted us as we pulled up and was quickly to work with me while my wife directed any lost looking runners. Shortly before 7am we were able to have most of the essentials set up. As runners continued to show up and take care of any last minute needs, I scrambled to get myself together (I realized shortly before the start that I was still wearing all my warm over layers).<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhApmPN7FidviaUNSFisFTWHus40xUxjVH7vVgMhKPh_gsJA1jlAmlHDPy7m9pJgg7c-m50b_3Omq02cTtZiOrHiZMvjoixLtjJCzWI3jEwQaR_peJ-9McxQ74GojE2g5PsxmtEgQ/s1600-h/887003214705_0_ALB.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhApmPN7FidviaUNSFisFTWHus40xUxjVH7vVgMhKPh_gsJA1jlAmlHDPy7m9pJgg7c-m50b_3Omq02cTtZiOrHiZMvjoixLtjJCzWI3jEwQaR_peJ-9McxQ74GojE2g5PsxmtEgQ/s400/887003214705_0_ALB.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298707389588325794" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(trying my best to get set up)<br /></span></div><br />Just a bit past 7am (the planned start time) I called for the runners to gather on the path and gave them a quick briefing as to how the course was laid out (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">ie</span>: water on the left/road on the right - and be sure to run around the path on the outside of the pool), then said 'without further ado... GO!' and off almost all the runners went. I stuck back for about an extra minute or two to ensure Rachael & Bob had everything under control (of course they did - more so than I ever could) then headed out at the back of the pack.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSzeNQFeEIaWCeRYuW7xMaGuQwz5RA4omaPQPCtuUggontF0u2P2Y5F7zIuYC56eXMZYNkupQGvolg7y1-DZxUuQoInEEgqB5rtH1TeX3mWHwPrbswDzX-dwAdByKN4wv5_888w/s1600-h/936282214705_0_ALB.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSzeNQFeEIaWCeRYuW7xMaGuQwz5RA4omaPQPCtuUggontF0u2P2Y5F7zIuYC56eXMZYNkupQGvolg7y1-DZxUuQoInEEgqB5rtH1TeX3mWHwPrbswDzX-dwAdByKN4wv5_888w/s400/936282214705_0_ALB.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298707648310555458" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">('...without further ado...GO!')<br /></span></div><br />Less than a mile into the run it occurred to me that through all the hi jinx at the start I had managed to leave behind my water bottle and any sort of energy food. I felt fine at the time, but realized I still had 14+ miles 'til I'd get back to the aid station - of course, I was completely unwilling to turn around - I knew there was water on various points along the course, so I knew I'd be alright.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5aDK2m8froJHUxZ_PbsBsH1AtxZeEsRgm8lkpgnMfHa6_qd7lzJr-ZKrVwg0RfeM4vjVOTk_RJXDBxa6H7xZFxRHpONcjAAcad7GWEAiV-WJF9BGatulSNbDzBEGV9DJRUvMOWQ/s1600-h/368003214705_0_ALB.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5aDK2m8froJHUxZ_PbsBsH1AtxZeEsRgm8lkpgnMfHa6_qd7lzJr-ZKrVwg0RfeM4vjVOTk_RJXDBxa6H7xZFxRHpONcjAAcad7GWEAiV-WJF9BGatulSNbDzBEGV9DJRUvMOWQ/s400/368003214705_0_ALB.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298708018767739810" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">('Hey, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">doffus</span>, where's your water bottle? - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">umm</span>, yeah...')</span><br /></div><br />The first leg felt quick, something I attribute to familiarity of the route, after all, these were my home training (what's that?) grounds. I chatted with a few fellow runners and just generally enjoyed the opportunity to run off my nerves and finally relax a bit. At the turn around I was still feeling good and continued at my pretty standard pace. When I got back to the aid station Bob & Rachael had the fire burning and everything laid out very well, I again chatted with a few runners and generally took my time. I wanted to make sure Bob & Rachael were still content, I wanted to fuel up a bit, and, most of all, I just wanted to hang out. I sat by the fire and just sort of relaxed, after about 5 minutes (which felt like an eternity) I finally got my self going, and headed back out for the second half of the run.<br /><br />The second half was fairly uneventful for me - I was able to watch the front runners go screaming by on their way back to the finish and had a chance to catch up to and chat with a runner who I had not previously met, which is always nice. I felt as though I was long over my standard time, but due to clumsy fingers, I had hit the 'stop' button on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Garmin</span> when I meant to hit the lap button, so I really had no clue as to how I was doing. When I did finish I was greeted with a 5:22:55, not terrible, but I definitely do better on that course if given different circumstances - but that wasn't the point and I'm glad I was able run this race while attempting to *run* this race :-)<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCAnnh3HzY6UQwj4bDA41poCLRJDN1t6MJ0e5Cyc87gmXZ3q8ELkchgsUoGAuJ08U6dPcSZFRv4b_g6d9owVZY5_zkSFBAnpj_10i0aFbBZXozgGq0iO4C3fzJpwcaaLqJbZlX8Q/s1600-h/IMG_3269.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCAnnh3HzY6UQwj4bDA41poCLRJDN1t6MJ0e5Cyc87gmXZ3q8ELkchgsUoGAuJ08U6dPcSZFRv4b_g6d9owVZY5_zkSFBAnpj_10i0aFbBZXozgGq0iO4C3fzJpwcaaLqJbZlX8Q/s400/IMG_3269.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298709208060774034" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(smiles upon finishing - evident by the fact that this time I have my bottle ;-)</span><br /></div><br />I hope I've already made this clear to everyone at the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">WSFA</span>50K - both runners and volunteers alike - but if not, let me say once more, thank you all for everything! Runners - thanks for showing up! Volunteers - thanks for all your hard work, it would have literally been impossible with out you! And also, an extra big 'thank you' to participants who donated to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society - the run brought in $115.00!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwoqoRf7k4iRjwbId-BDC7Uv2Pocy_e4Uyiy36d7-eGpSgNpEFUNFEy2ReRYBKlX8W5tCYHI-zUUD1ivQrrhVu664mC6bigZZiTMong3AED5LzP4ab0E3JYFg3EPkYFjgHkFq2MQ/s1600-h/IMG_3271.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwoqoRf7k4iRjwbId-BDC7Uv2Pocy_e4Uyiy36d7-eGpSgNpEFUNFEy2ReRYBKlX8W5tCYHI-zUUD1ivQrrhVu664mC6bigZZiTMong3AED5LzP4ab0E3JYFg3EPkYFjgHkFq2MQ/s400/IMG_3271.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298709801922568434" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(#12 of 13 - with help from good friend and aid station extraordinaire, Bob)</span><br /></div><br />MANY more photos from Sunday's race can be seen here : <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;" ><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.kodakgallery.com/ShareLanding.action?c=c0isivfd.1n3i944x&x=0&y=yao87i&localeid=en_US" style="text-decoration: none;"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1233701274_0">http://www.kodakgallery.com/ShareLanding.action?c=c0isivfd.1n3i944x&x=0&y=<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">yao</span>87i&<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">localeid</span>=en_US</span></a> (these photos were taken by Rich Walter, one of our great volunteers!)<br /><br />and here: </span><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;" ><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.kodakgallery.com/ShareLanding.action?c=2u04napl.9feg272p&x=0&y=-sujexn&localeid=en_US" style="text-decoration: none;"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1233701325_0">http://www.kodakgallery.com/ShareLanding.action?c=2u04napl.9feg272p&x=0&y=-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">sujexn</span>&<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">localeid</span>=en_US</span></a> (these were taken by Rachael & I at the aid station/finish line)</span>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-82171638740396747882009-01-28T14:14:00.000-08:002009-01-28T14:15:21.299-08:00Pigtail's & Yours Truly - back to back 50KsSaturday morning was Pigtail's Run, a 50K consisting of 3 full loops around Lake Youngs Watershed, plus a small out and back section to ensure the proper distance. I ran 2 loops of this run last year and had a wonderful time, so much so in fact, that I see that run as what really pushed me into the 'excessive' marathoning and ultra running. With fond memories in mind, I decided Thursday evening that I would make an attempt at a 50K PR (personal record) come Saturday morning.<br /><br />Saturday morning was chilly, but good for running. I started the first leg of the first loop running with <a href="http://journeytoacentum.blogspot.com/">Eric</a> and <a href="http://stoyles-arewethereyet.blogspot.com/">Steve</a> (when do these guys not run?) and stuck with them until Steve told me he was going to back off the pace a bit. I kept at about the same speed assuming they'd catch me eventually. The course is a rolling loop with a few hills that do a bit more than roll, nothing crazy, but by the third loop they look a bit more daunting. I decided to run the entire first 2 loops and see how I felt from there. As approached certain hills on the third loop I considered walking them but I kept giving way to my stubbornness, at some point I decided I wouldn't walk until I got to a certain hill that seemed the steepest to me (other than the final hill on the out and back section). When I got to said hill, I once again decided to keep running, in the end I only briefly walked once, on a small incline of all places, as I ate my final Gu and prepared to finish off the last 5 miles or so.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGRJ2TyxwfiJGRmZ86UgJkX9ZFsB1nMIVn40zmXXjIkhTbNoMTsXIS0esqVNdcECqfY6s1wxgKbvsOCT3CEcRwRZEaBQi49lbTEDcJsnMZG2iQC-f3zUWrDlsLkByYBb32ZLMCIQ/s1600-h/2093_5655479336120380870_7160_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGRJ2TyxwfiJGRmZ86UgJkX9ZFsB1nMIVn40zmXXjIkhTbNoMTsXIS0esqVNdcECqfY6s1wxgKbvsOCT3CEcRwRZEaBQi49lbTEDcJsnMZG2iQC-f3zUWrDlsLkByYBb32ZLMCIQ/s400/2093_5655479336120380870_7160_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296452511803069442" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size: 78%;">(heading toward the last hill at Pigtail's - photo by Eric)</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The stubbornness paid off as I finished the race in 4:44 (and change), a personal best by about 13 minutes! Once Van (the race director) posted the results and splits I was able to see that I had run the course fairly evenly (not even, but close enough) as well with my first loop being 1:23, my second completes in 1:29, and my final loop in 1:33. I'm pretty happy with all of that, especially since I didn't check my watch once while out on the course.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpsBMbd1TWN7D0N0stlOjkOy7CuftDMAQC4FdKmoUoLicwKeFq865Xb98BCqU5TqIAJAMAsFJq6o3nAazKnB4rdrrKNh5es-Sp1ZNiV1kUC1xtuKxzR4kmJdDWv5xnSIatLvw78A/s1600-h/IMG_3246.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpsBMbd1TWN7D0N0stlOjkOy7CuftDMAQC4FdKmoUoLicwKeFq865Xb98BCqU5TqIAJAMAsFJq6o3nAazKnB4rdrrKNh5es-Sp1ZNiV1kUC1xtuKxzR4kmJdDWv5xnSIatLvw78A/s400/IMG_3246.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296452809695700226" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size: 78%;">(After Pigtail's - trying to stay warm - #10!)<br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Sunday was a different story entirely.<br /><br />After a fairly long Saturday evening of celebrating <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burns_supper">Burn's Night</a> with a group of friends, I was finally in bed and ready for sleep at about midnight, I was more than well aware that this was a bad idea, but sometimes real life just has to mix with running and I'd rather do both than give up either. Sunday morning came early, I dragged myself out of bed, got ready, and made my way to the start of the race. Once there, I was informed that one of the bridges on the route was out and as a result instead of running 2 out and back sections we would be running 4 shorter out and backs plus another small out and back to get the distance right, for some reason, at the time, I thought that was a good idea(?).<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHT9D4fN-llgV83UtchgtKJkNZyVNvaMrUv6e4rxwj9dJgQ6BbrSrpavddO1BJQqm04nnmPAo4zyMTItZEy1btMc5_sZGQufTAZLf4e3riZC9AbTrdzz32j85nqehALT-Cfo4bQg/s1600-h/2093_5655479336120380925_3008_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHT9D4fN-llgV83UtchgtKJkNZyVNvaMrUv6e4rxwj9dJgQ6BbrSrpavddO1BJQqm04nnmPAo4zyMTItZEy1btMc5_sZGQufTAZLf4e3riZC9AbTrdzz32j85nqehALT-Cfo4bQg/s400/2093_5655479336120380925_3008_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296452656059828194" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size: 78%;">(What? The sun was just barely up, and I was already walking?!? - Photo by Eric)</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1AdQ7Ob3XXSM3keiaLbq-d0QAwJZZACwAMTnZdbTqY9UH30RziDSOKdsLJCvlVpULwUoE13UqRd3LXW3YtZXHpIGKrfBd8Wp36yH9qJxxi_UV3y6FpBxw6kxe5O1umEjG6s4r3A/s1600-h/2093_5655479336120380919_1255_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1AdQ7Ob3XXSM3keiaLbq-d0QAwJZZACwAMTnZdbTqY9UH30RziDSOKdsLJCvlVpULwUoE13UqRd3LXW3YtZXHpIGKrfBd8Wp36yH9qJxxi_UV3y6FpBxw6kxe5O1umEjG6s4r3A/s400/2093_5655479336120380919_1255_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296452614354414818" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size: 78%;">(That's better! </span><span style="font-size: 78%;"> - Photo by Eric</span><span style="font-size: 78%;">)<br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">From the first steps I could tell it was not going to be my day, my knees were sore (something I'm not used to as it's honestly never been the case before), my ankle was sore (after having held up fairly well the day before), and my stomach felt off (I really kind of lived it up Saturday night). After a very slow out and back with Eric (again... sheesh!), I headed to the port-a-potty for some, umm... alone time... From that point forward things got a little better, but not significantly so. The run was long and I was slow and sore which made it feel that much longer. On the final 'back' of the out and back, I was able to 'catch' Eric who was also having 'one of those days,' we made our way to the finish together, ending with a personal worst of 6:02:38. I'd be more upset about it if it weren't for the PR the day before... besides, it was day 2 of a double, there was a pretty dusting of snow on the course, and, if nothing else, I was able to be out there doing it, which is no small gift...<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifNDcZ6eRSco0_RWGLDAWyUr9rsPoWDALZGkMj1rqPhzbeDyQjAvWQUysBv50wTHJl7EozWguAjwM4QdtW1rpwC8MZI8_cTtTuxtyDL-gS04AGE7vR-r1LcPaHkgnjcbDmpHP08g/s1600-h/IMG_3248.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifNDcZ6eRSco0_RWGLDAWyUr9rsPoWDALZGkMj1rqPhzbeDyQjAvWQUysBv50wTHJl7EozWguAjwM4QdtW1rpwC8MZI8_cTtTuxtyDL-gS04AGE7vR-r1LcPaHkgnjcbDmpHP08g/s400/IMG_3248.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296452926609471874" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size: 78%;">(Help! I've run out of finger's! I knew I had to catch Eric for a reason - #11!)</span></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-78106313398239048462009-01-23T07:53:00.001-08:002009-01-23T08:34:28.206-08:00...just a few thoughts...<ul><li style="text-align: justify;">I was lying awake last night thinking to myself, I should probably run hard(er) at Pigtail's this weekend... I had a solid 2 loops there last year... so, without over thinking it, I think I'll try for a 50K PR tomorrow...</li><li style="text-align: justify;">My left ankle has been on and off sore since Pigtail's Flat Ass back in December (damn snow), however, since Capitol Peak, last weekend, it's only been 'on'... it feels <span style="font-style: italic;">much</span> better than it did the day after Cap Peak, but there's definitely still twinges of pain... I'll get it checked out come mid February, until then, I really just have to survive this weekend's double, but I'm guessing it'll be fine...</li><li><div style="text-align: justify;">I'm in the process of planning out the rest of my racing schedule from Feb. 8th (Valentine Marathon) forward... I know I have STORMY in August, it's just what will be between then & now... here's what I'm looking at as a short list (I'd love to do these all, but I don't foresee that happening)... </div><ul><li>Pacific Rim 24 Hour Run - 3/14</li><li>Green Lake Dizzy Daze 100K - 3/28</li><li>Mt. Si 50 Mile - 4/19</li><li>Capitol Peak 50 Mile - 4/25</li><li>Watershed Preserve 12 Hour - 5/16</li><li>Forest Park 50K - 5/24</li><li>North Face Endurance 50 Mile (Bellingham) - 6/6</li><li>20th Century 100K - 6/20</li><li>Grey Rock 50K - 7/11</li></ul></li><li style="text-align: justify;">I've yet to make any sort of call on whether or not to look for a pacer for STORMY, I'm not some one whose opposed to the idea of pacers, I just don't know that I can offer a pacer what seems fair (ie: meals, hotel room, transportation, etc.)...</li><li style="text-align: justify;">This weekend's double will be my 19th and <span style="font-weight: bold;">20th</span> marathons (or longer)... that's pretty cool... 1/5 of the way to 100...<br /></li></ul>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-53620810529591359042009-01-20T13:18:00.000-08:002009-01-20T13:20:03.398-08:00Capitol Peak Mega Fat Ass<div style="text-align: justify;">Mega Fat Ass = Mega Collapse<br /><br />Well, okay, not really but, oh boy was that second half of the second loop tough...<br /><br />I started the morning feeling very tired and slightly sick to my stomach, not exactly how I wanted to start the day, but what was I going to do? I jumped in the car and made it down to the Mima Trailhead by about 7:30am. At 8am the race began and the conga line formed, about a half mile in things started to open up a bit and I worked my way forward to where <a href="http://journeytoacentum.blogspot.com/">Eric</a> and <a href="http://stoyles-arewethereyet.blogspot.com/">Steve </a>were. I stuck with them for a good half of the first loop, though the entire time I was thinking that we were going a bit too fast. When I reached the completion of the first loop (of 2) 2:28 had ticked off the clock, it seemed like a descent time. As soon as the climbs began on the second loop I got a sense of what I was in for. At some point Van Phan passed me and for a minute there it looked as though she would pull far away but then, for the next couple of miles I was right on her heels, again, this was a mistake. Although I'm usually only a bit behind Van on marathons and 50Ks and every so often I actually finish before her, I know a few things - she's better on trails than I am, she's stronger on hills, and she's MUCH better at pacing than I am - altogether she a stronger more experienced runner than I am. After those few miles on Van's heels I hit a massive wall, with about 10K left I was running on fumes, I ate a final Honey Stinger and hoped for the best. The miles dragged and the minutes jerked (Clash reference) but I finially hit the finish line in 5:18: and change. Here's hoping I actually learn the lessons the trail and my body attempted to teach me ;-)<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhub4bdMPIzo7g9SsTDpW-aoIU6e3-mH11HxwN3jqu5K2B7I8qTEfqxuStwFwuOlJaUjuDcev9PKOoYjn9R94Jb8KoTUG2wj_3DH_xpiUj0jxcHJjNClMibMQeEqVaFHPtZ4O-J9Q/s1600-h/IMG_3245.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhub4bdMPIzo7g9SsTDpW-aoIU6e3-mH11HxwN3jqu5K2B7I8qTEfqxuStwFwuOlJaUjuDcev9PKOoYjn9R94Jb8KoTUG2wj_3DH_xpiUj0jxcHJjNClMibMQeEqVaFHPtZ4O-J9Q/s400/IMG_3245.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293470355199555394" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(#9, #9.... #9...)</span><br /></div><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">View more pics here: <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/thisnic/CapPeak?feat=directlink">http://picasaweb.google.com/thisnic/CapPeak?feat=directlink</a></span></span> (the majority of which were either taken by <a href="http://journeytoacentum.blogspot.com/">Eric</a> & <a href="http://backofpack.blogspot.com/">Michelle</a> or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=logo#/profile.php?id=1040531216&v=feed&viewas=1365324775">Allison</a><br /></div></div><br />Next weekend: Back to back 50Ks - Pigtails Run & Yours Truly!Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-78220813484201432222009-01-12T21:09:00.000-08:002009-01-12T21:11:22.494-08:00STORMY 100<div style="text-align: justify; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:180%;">I am now 100%, absolutely, with out a doubt, officially registered for the <a href="http://homepage.mac.com/designr2/stormy/index.html">STORMY 100 Mile Trail Ultra</a>!!!!!<br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">(and by the way, I'm excited)<br /></span></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-18015810656077536872009-01-12T12:16:00.000-08:002009-01-14T08:46:01.588-08:00Bridle Trails (!!!)Oh man, I'm fairly confident that I'm unable to fully express how grand a time I had Saturday afternoon/evening, but, for the blog's sake, I'll try...<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />Around 2:40pm I arrived on the (way) outskirts of <a href="http://www.bridletrails.org/">Bridle Trails state park</a> in Kirkland, the 50K start would be at 3:10pm, so I had just about the perfect amount of time to get signed in, use the facilities, find a spot for my drop bag, and say 'hi' to any one I recognized (and be introduced to some new folks as well). Long before the race started I became aware that I had failed as far as preparation was concerned. Right out of the car in dawned on me that I had forgotten gloves of any sort, when I got to the drop bag location it occurred to me that the top I had on would be too warm under my water proof jacket but, of course, it was raining, so it was either, too warm but dry or comfortable but wet. I ended up running the race with cold hands and a (very) wet top.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBDLP7PVA0zjJOqxnbKFYPfri0oV5o6C0AgZQYTEo-AcWiBYsh-PgHLs3mAO9UPSm1haJTZob4EkY2TWVumQx7_y72xcwMmd3BJcLjzFm2MbgitosJPQGZVTyU1M-Hm02AKEd5/s1600-h/n1365324775_30217072_7963.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBDLP7PVA0zjJOqxnbKFYPfri0oV5o6C0AgZQYTEo-AcWiBYsh-PgHLs3mAO9UPSm1haJTZob4EkY2TWVumQx7_y72xcwMmd3BJcLjzFm2MbgitosJPQGZVTyU1M-Hm02AKEd5/s400/n1365324775_30217072_7963.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290629140671909634" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(Just arrived at the finish -preparing to be cold)</span><br /></div><br />Despite the the poor prep, there I was, ready to run. The run began with a conga line that lasted the first quarter mile or so, there was a wee amount of mud but nothing that lived up to this run's reputation. Right at about the point where the real running could begin came the first instance of mud, this put a big halt in the trail as some tried to make their way around the puddles, taking the opportunity, I went through the mud and past a few folks. The rest of the first lap was spent (probably) going a bit too fast and chatting with <a href="http://lifekeepsonrunning.blogspot.com/">Thomas Tan</a>. At the end of the first lap, I stopped and used the rest room (how odd to use a rest room on a trail run), grabber my (useless) head lamp and flashlight, and headed back out while eating a Gu. Just as I got away from the aid station, on to the trail, I realized I really should have eaten my Gu while there were trash cans around, with no real pockets for trash I did the next logical thing, I toke off my hat, set the wrapper on top my head and put my cap back on. It was about this time I had a brief meet and greet with 'Marty' that turned into 4 and a half solid loops.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBk8v0MvP3As9LTjvyDZ-JA19OrWFGzdIKsPrNOBUxfhTy4VRRdHmKNV47gmX6YBsT6Lnx_e4RxoFEIiLeLSVIk96eYAM6w8vQ_z51Zit-UpV-njnbcWO9s_fBa6wAYfsVRMui/s1600-h/n1365324775_30217076_8473.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBk8v0MvP3As9LTjvyDZ-JA19OrWFGzdIKsPrNOBUxfhTy4VRRdHmKNV47gmX6YBsT6Lnx_e4RxoFEIiLeLSVIk96eYAM6w8vQ_z51Zit-UpV-njnbcWO9s_fBa6wAYfsVRMui/s400/n1365324775_30217076_8473.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290629223753100194" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(Fun in the mud!)</span><br /></div><br />Marty is an RN in the real world, but in this context he is and an adventure racer who had run an ultra in ages, together he and I ran through the dark until on the 5th loop we were joined by 'Doug.' Doug is a former snowboard designer for Burton turned Doctor by way of the Army, having served almost 4 years at Fort Lewis (where he is currently stationed) we had some common ground and were able to chat as well. The 3 of us stuck together the entire 5th loop and the beginning of the final loop, at the aid station Marty was joined by another adventure racing buddy of his who planned on pacing (?) him. Slowly, as the first couple miles past, Doug fell further and further behind us and somewhere around 3 to 3 and a half miles I lost sight of Marty and his pacer friend. It was odd to be out on the trails on my lonesome after 25 odd miles of conversation, but it was nice in it's own way, sort of a chance to reflect before I had even finished. I decided that the final stretch of trail wasn't going to slow me down, since I hadn't felt any sort of bonk yet, I'd just give what I had and see where that got me. In the end, I believe I only finished about 5 minutes behind Marty and his pacer, with a 5:17:46. For all the horror stories I had heard about this race I was thrilled with my time (not far off from my standard 50K time) and I was happy to have finished strong without feeling like I had ever quit.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiprblDINGls88PlmiMbOJhGEhEkbcP_4CKabd3pDUL36PTfGHQPwKY8gljj8tQugQo87JcivyhX6qRdn6srvhnW6YRssISzYn2QqFT1WqTY906kGD_07SpRRcdrzljfdMjwoOo/s1600-h/n1365324775_30217078_8754.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiprblDINGls88PlmiMbOJhGEhEkbcP_4CKabd3pDUL36PTfGHQPwKY8gljj8tQugQo87JcivyhX6qRdn6srvhnW6YRssISzYn2QqFT1WqTY906kGD_07SpRRcdrzljfdMjwoOo/s400/n1365324775_30217078_8754.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290629307143128434" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(Yup- the mud can make it through shoes and socks, no problem!)<br /></span></div><br />At the finish I came to find my drop bag soaking wet (my fault - no one elses) and it's contents, including my 'dry' pants and hooded sweatshirt, in the same shape. I grabbed my camera took a few pics (and had a few taken), snagged some ramen noodles, said a few good-byes, and headed to the comfort of my warm car (waaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyy down the road ;-) . When I got to the car, I put the heat on full blast, took off my soaking shirt, and wrapped up in an REI towel my wonderful wife had gotten me for christmas, though not yet warm, I was well on my way. I called my wife and headed home. Due to a little more poor planning (yup - there was plenty of it), I was unable to get my ice bath at the end of the night and am definitely feeling those results now, but other wise recovery is going well as usual and I'm looking forward to the Capitol Peak Mega Fat Ass!<br /></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907779.post-80307514040083985392009-01-07T13:08:00.000-08:002009-01-09T08:18:00.466-08:002008 = ...<div style="text-align: justify;">7 Marathons<br />4 50Ks<br />2 50 milers<br />1 'other' (28.4 miles)<br /><br />Personal best marathon for 2008 - 3:37:40* (Michelle's Grande Ass)<br />Personal worst marathon for 2008 - 4:08:39 (Last Chance Marathon)<br /><br />Personal best 50K for 2008 - 4:57:30* (Ghost of Seattle)<br />Personal worst 50K for 2008 - 5:13 (Green Lake Dizzy Daze)<br /><br />(The 50 milers are COMPLETELY incomparable to one another)<br /><br />'Favorite' race of 2008 - I had a great time at the Birch Bay Ghost Marathon but I think, ultimately, the White River 50 Mile, with it's awesome views and difficult course was my favorite.<br /><br />Least enjoyed race of 2008 - That's a toss up between Grandma's Marathon (I'm not that big on BIG races and I had a tough day anyway) & the Last Chance Marathon (that's no reflection on the race or the folks who set it up, I would definitely run it again, I just wasn't 'feelin' it' that day).<br /><br />Of the 3 goals that were set back in January of '08 to be accomplished before the end of the year, one was meet. In retrospect, that goal, to run an Ultra of some sort, was easy to meet. I didn't run a 3:30 marathon and I didn't stick to my training schedule very well (though, I sure some could/would say, had I stuck to my training better, I may have ran a 3:30 marathon...). I'm going to continue to work toward those 2 goals in '09, hopefully with more success. In addition to those two carrying over, I hope to run (and finish) my first 100K and 100 miler in 2009, and perhaps run a 24 event as well.<br /><br />(* = PR)<br /></div>Nichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05491035737893461029noreply@blogger.com0