Moab Red Hot 55k Race Report

Nipples can break off but you just gotta keep going….

The Moab Red Hot has never really been kind to me and this year proved to be no different. I knew heading in that my training was well off of what it needed to be. With all this snow and cold and crappy air, I haven’t been able to get the long runs in like years past. As frustrating as that was I was really hoping that almost a year of Pilates and getting my ass handed to me at Bomber Athlete for the last few months could help fill in the void. In the end it became apparent as ever that nothing can replace running.

Heading down to Moab I was a little nervous just from the sheer numbers- 800 runners. It has almost doubled since last year and I was a little concerned how that would all work out. In hindsight I now know that it does no good to worry about something I can’t control and the real concern should have been with my training. Last year I ran 6:17 and was disappointed when I finished knowing I should go under 6 hours. Even though that was the goal this year I started to realize that may not happen either. I was however really looking forward to all of the HUMR group that would be down there to help kick off 2013. The weather was fantastic the air was clear and the trails were red.

A few HUMR’s at the start.- Photo: Jo Agnew

After a nice dinner at Pasta Jay’s it was back to the hotel to get things ready for Saturday morning. I decided to take 3 flasks and one handheld with me for the race. I filled 3 small flasks with 2-3 ounces EFS Liquid Shot and one heaping scoop of EFS electrolyte drink topped off with water. I threw them in my UltrAspire Spry vest with my iPod and took along an isomeric pocket handheld filled with plain water. My plan was to take small nips off the flasks- each lasting 2 hours a piece. The handheld could easily get me to each aid station and after that it was up to me. As we gathered at the start it was ripe with HUMR’s. It was obvious we stole the show (wink-wink). Between the HUMR group and the HUMR Ultra Team it made me feel a little more at ease knowing I would see many of them over the course of the next 30+ miles. When the RD said GO- we all took off. I tried to settle in a bit and plot a plan for the first hill- would I power walk or run- decision, a little of both. Once we hit the small little climb I settled in to a comfortable pace but for whatever reason had a hard time getting my breathing under control. I think the problem was the air was too clean. For the first mile or so I seen a few HUMR’s up ahead and a few started passing. Kelly was nice enough to pat me on the buttocks as he passed and soon after I got a HUMR heckle from behind- here comes Ryan, Bryce and Bj. As they caught me I decided to match their stride for a bit and go with them. I knew it wouldn’t last long since these 3 are so gazelle like in their efforts. Once they left I ran with Kelly for a bit until we hit the first aid station. Leaving that I still felt pretty good and looking forward to the next section. Unfortunately this is where I had my first problem of the day- BROKEN NIPPLE. As I stopped to tie my shoe I set my handheld down for a moment- well it rolled off the rock and BOOM- my nipple just popped clean off! My handheld slowly drained and my heart sunk just a little. Here I was at mile 9 and I have a broken nipple and no water. I stood up, threw on my big boy pants, put my head down and trudged forward. When I pulled into the next aid station the 2 girls asked if I needed anything. I replied- “my nipple broke.” They both looked up with a snap of the neck with jaws open……they responded- “we have water and Heed.” Once I set them straight they laughed but didn’t have anything for me to use to carry water in. I guzzled as much as I could and headed off. Over the next few miles I panicked a bit more and tried to think of what else I could do.  You see, I need water. I love it. I am what you would call a heavy sweater- not the Christmas type either. As I got closer to the next aid station I saw a white truck off in the distance and had a little calmness come over me. It was Lane Farka, Pam and Steve. They had driven out to cheer and drop off water at the aid stations. As I approached I saw Jared and was a little concerned. I asked if they had anything to carry water and Forrest had an extra handheld there that I was able to use- I was saved! Lane filled it up and as I was heading out Jared joined me. He was feeling very well but he is a tough SOB and kept on truckin. I ran with Jared for a bit when Jim caught up then Shawn. The next bit was the climb up the slick rock around mile 20 and I knew I wouldn’t see them all again until the finish.

Jared pulling me along. Photo by: Joel Schenk

The rest of the race was uneventful except for the few times I stopped to lay down and stretch. As the mile slowly went by I knew a sub 6 was out and a chance of a slower time than the year before was inevitable. The last few miles were tough-mentally. So many things went through my head and I was just disappointed. As I approached the finish line I heard a lot of cheers which felt amazing but I just wanted to be done. 6:40- YIKES! 23 minutes slower than 2012, not exactly how I wanted to start the year.

This next segment is stolen from my friend and fellow HUMR Harrison “Clean & Jerk” Fluman.

Things I learned from Moab:

•   It’s only when I forget to bring baby wipes I need them.
•   Losing a nipple can cripple.
•   Race photos are not like glamour shots.
•  Some people do run with Yamaka’s.
•   Just because you went to Penn State doesn’t mean you like to tickle.
•   Sitting in pee-pee is not for mee.

Trottin to the finish. Photo by: Cammie Burlison

At the end of the day though, I was pumped for so many people. The HUMR’s truly represented. Ryan Lauck had an amazing performance, Misty, Debbie and Ms. Dennis ran their longest race, Jared rallied big time to finish strong, Jon running his first race in some time since he has been homeless and there are so many more. The one thing they all did was finish with a smile. Once again I left a race thankful, thankful to have so many amazing people in my life. Race season is here- I guess I better start showing up.

2013 Schedule - GULP!

So the schedule is set and it’s more than a little spooky. You know how easy it is when you are just sitting in front of a computer and looking at races. They all look great. There are the familiar ones, your favorite ones and of course the bucket list ones. I missed out AGAIN on Western States and Hardrock which is really not that surprising. Looking at those 2 and the number of lottery entrants increase every year there is a good chance I will never run these. Once those were ruled out it came down to going with Plan B and Plan C.

So let’s start with the familiar/favorites. Every year I look forward to the Moab Red Hot 55k. It is a great chance to get out of town after a long winter, test the legs, see the red rocks and the best part is seeing all the people. When I say all the people I mean my Ultra Friends. It is always nice to catch up and see some familiar faces. Next up-  the Buffalo Run on Antelope Island. Living in Utah and so close, this is a no brainer. It was my first ever trail race many years ago and I have run it every year but one (due to injury). The course is amazing, the RD is great (and a friend) and it organized and run better than any. Another favorite and local is the Timp Trail Marathon. I can see myself running this every year and never getting tired of it- Great course and not too far from home. The last and my favorite race is the El Vaquero loco 50k. I got to run it for the first time last year and fell in love. Ty does a great job and the course is breath-taking! The start/finish is awesome, the huckleberry soda and burger hit the spot and you get a sa-weet race hoodie! Enough said!

Now the “other races”:

Zion 100- need a little redemption from last year and getting lost after mile 52 with about a dozen other lucky soles.

Bryce 100- super excited for this one. Beautiful location and great RD. Just look at the photos of the course.

Tahoe Rim 50- been on my bucket list and things worked out perfectly. It also gives me an excuse to miss out on SpeedGoat this year.

Wasatch 100- really no explanation needed. This race will be the main focus race for the year. Gonna be all in for this one!

Bear 100- only 3 weeks after Wasatch but this one has been on the bucket list for years. Been pacing and crewing it for 5 years so its time!

The one run that I haven’t mentioned is “Softrock”. My good friend Scott Jaime will be taking on Hardrock again and invited me and some friends down to Silverton at the end of June to hit the Hardrock course over 3 days. This is gonna be brutal for sure but may be the one run I am looking forward to the most.

All in all 2013 will be huge for me. Lots of miles and at least a race a month from Feb-Oct. I have my eye on a few Nov and Dec races but I figure I better see where I am later in the year. Being a middle of the pack runner my schedule is real doable since I will not be red lining every race. I will have goals going into them but they will all be setting me up for Wasatch. (complete schedule on the right of the blog)

I hope to see many of you on the trails this year. Here’s to a safe and healthy 2013- set your Goals and CRUSH ‘em!

2013

2012 is finally over and its time to focus on the new year. Since this is a running blog, that's what I will focus on. 2012 racing didn't pan out like I had hoped. There were definitely some solid races and some PR's but we all have that ONE focus race. My 2012 focus race was Wasatch. Ironically that was also my last post. After the disappointing run in September it took some time to recover both physically and mentally. The physical part seems good (hamstring feels pretty nice) the mental part is still a little bruised. I did run the Zion Traverse and the Antelope 50k but they were both with little expectations. The Zion run was definitely a great time. No times, no pressure and lots of fun and friends. Antelope 50k went much better than I expected. A great race send off and may have lifted the spirits just a little.
 For 2013, I obviously have some goals in running. The race schedule is filling up quickly and my calendar is looking good! No luck with Western or Hardrock lotteries but I am holding out hope for Wasatch. To the right I have posted my 2013 schedule and I am very excited. I will be returning to some of my favorite familiar races and trying a few new ones. There are a few 100's and the spotlight run is not even a race. It is Softrock- 3 days 100 miles on the Hardrock 100 course with Scott Jaime as the tour guide.
In the "off-season" I have focused on strength training a bit with friends at Bomber Athlete. Tried to slow down the running to let the hammy heal properly all the while nervous I was losing my fitness.
For the new year I really want to do a much better job of focusing on consistency and even blogging. Why blogging? It makes me more accountable and helps me track and see what works and what doesn't.
My secret weapon- HUMR's! The Happy Utah Mountain Runners are the key. The keep everything fun and keep me accountable. I enjoy them and they help me just enjoy it when I may not.
The PI Ultra Team has gone through some changes for 2013 and I will be stepping away and no longer be the Team Director. 6 years ago the team was an idea and I had no idea what it would become. I am very proud of what we did and enjoyed it very much.
In 2013 I will be running under the HUMR Ultra Team banner. A small group of like-minded people who love the trails. We collected some great sponsors and some help. We got some great kits and we will be having an amazing time this year so keep your eyes open people.
So 2013, I am gonna push it. See what i am capable of but focusing on the journey.
I look forward to seeing some familiar faces in Moab this February and seeing some sweet single track all year!
For 2013- If your Dreams don't scare you, they are not BIG enough!- Dream Big!

Wasatch 100 Race report---(sort of)

Pop……and it was over.

Before I put this report together I had the following thoughts:

• Should I even do one?
• This will be the shortest report ever!
• Who cares?
• Save the boo-hoo story.

Well, I will take this time for me. Maybe throwing this out into the universe will help with the coping. Maybe it will help me get it out of my system. Maybe one day I can revisit it and laugh. Well, no matter what the outcome, I will do this one for myself.

Wasatch 100 is my favorite race. It is the toughest race I have ever done and I love it. This year was to be a year of great achievement. I thought I had a great game plan coming into 2012. Lined up a lot of great races, fantastic training runs, started Pilates and was very consistent with everything. This was my year! I was ready from Day 1. I am fortunate to have the best running partners on the planet- The HUMR’s.  Running with this group of people makes it so much fun and I look forward to getting out on the trails. They all played a major role this year- got me out the door, pushed me to go farther, pushed me to go faster, kept me consistent and most importantly- made it enjoyable. Thanks you all!

Leading up to the race I was sure I would finish (I was 2 for 2 heading in) and my main focus was under 28 hours. I did sub 30 last year so with the year I have had I knew it was more than possible. When I arrived at the start I was a little nervous but I have been here before. This was my superbowl, my big dance, my 2012 rolled into one race. I shared “good lucks” and “see you at finish” comments before the game was on. My plan was simple enough- get out quicker and not get stuck on the long climb. Well, I did just that. I felt great and hit Fernwood right where I wanted to be. Throughout the climb to the top and I was enjoying it. I was looking forward to different sections on the course and the AS and looking forward to seeing all the familiar faces throughout this journey. When I was up above chinscraper I was still very excited. I was ahead of where I thought I would be time wise and still felt good. I stopped at the spring and filled my bottles to ensure I would take enough in before I hit Francis Peak. I knew it would be hot and I wanted to stay ahead a bit on hydration. I holstered my bottles and was off. About a ¼ mile from the spring while enjoying some beautiful single track I felt a POP. It kinda felt like someone shot me. I immediately shot straight up and fell to the ground. The 2 runners right behind tried to avoid me but no luck on the small trail- the fell right over my legs. We all apologized for the pile up and they politely asked if I was okay. I responded- “oh ya- sorry about that.” Inside I knew I wasn’t. I got up- dusted off, wiped the blood from my knee and shin and started to assess the damage. What the hell just happened- I thought.  I walked a few steps and my right hamstring felt like it was about to cramp. I was hoping it was just a tight hamstring and that I could work it out in a mile or 2. I do believe part of me was in denial. In the back of my mind I knew I was in trouble. I had 88 more miles to go. I kept thinking- if I make it to Big Mountain and see my friends and family maybe I can rally.

The service road to Francis Peak is very runnable and I was hoping to get there and coast in. At Grobbens Corner I filled my bottles and tried to get down the road. Fellow HUMR Jim Skaggs caught me here and we discussed what was going on. He said- “maybe it’s just tight and it will loosen up”, that sounded good to me and I was hoping for the same thing so 2 votes was a good thing. Nothing he could do here to help and I watched him take off down the road.

I made in to FP and saw Rick Robinson there with my drop bag. He saw something was wrong and we talked briefly about it. He offered to drive over to Bountiful B if I wanted to continue to see if it would indeed loosen up. Why not? I had nothing to lose. My calendar was free so I wasn’t going to be wasting my time. I left FP and did everything I could to get moving again. A few miles down the road it became even more apparent something was wrong when I had a hard time getting y right foot off the ground and over rocks and trees. I was tripping everywhere. I tried to enjoy this section because I knew I was done. Runners were passing me asking if I was okay and I just let them know I was fine and wished then luck on their way. When I finally hit the Bountiful AS I was devastated. I tried to keep my emotions in check because there were so many people around. I signed the DNF paper and it was over- just like that.

On the drive down with Rick, we shared some good stories. It helped take my mind off what just happened but by the time I got home it really hit me. I was absolutely crushed. It felt like a dream. This wasn’t really happening.  Dropping out 24miles into a 100 mile race- are you serious! What about my pacers? They take time off work and I stood them up- nice……

The past few days have been pretty dark. I turned off my phone and just tried to process it all. I was so disappointed. I hurt- not my leg but my insides. How do I explain this to my kids? They think their dad is super human. They were looking so forward to running on the grass across the finish line at the Homestead. That was their time………

The road to recovery has begun- physically, mentally and emotionally. I really have no idea how this will turn out and when. I don’t deal well with failure. The disappointed I feel still after 3 days is a little overwhelming. Yes, I know part of me is most likely having a pity party but this is tough. I was ready this year. I was ready big time. I prepared all year and had some great visions of what the day would be like. I never once thought I wouldn’t finish. I was not prepared for this…….

Wasatch 100 Pre-Race thoughts

2011 Finish with the girls

Its here- Wasatch 100 2012. The lottery took place on February 4^th- which seems like such a long time ago. I remember being out on a training run and hoping for the best. I have run Wasatch twice and was eager to give it another go. After I saw my name that night I remember the feeling of excitement and a bit of anxiety as well. I had 7 months of training and racing ahead to prepare which I knew if I stayed injury free would be enough. I began to pick up other races to help build for Wasatch and set me in a better mind set. It looked like this:

February- Moab Red Hot 55k

March – Buffalo Run 50

April- Grand Canyon R2R2R

May- Zion 100, HUMR Beer Mile and Timp Trail Marathon

June- San Juan Solstice 50

July- SpeedGoat 50k

August- El Vaquero Loco 50k

So I knew heading into Wasatch I would have some good races and plenty of training runs. Last year I only raced a couple times and didn’t run in July before running hard for 3 weeks in August just in time to start my taper.  This year is different, other than a few little nagging aches I have run much better, started doing Pilates and being much more consistent on my training.

So, with all that above I should be more than ready right? Well, I hope so. 100 miles is still a long journey and we all know anything can happen. There are so many variables that enter the equation- some you can control, some you can’t and some you should.  After last year’s crazy final 14 miles and a sub 30 finish I am not sure if that set me up with confidence or more pressure. I always want to become better and whatever I do and this year has seen 4 PR’s in my racing calendar already. Can I go under 29:46.30 or was my finish just dumb luck? If I finish over 29:46.30 is it a set back? These are only a few thoughts that are going through my mind.

 I am fortunate to have a STRONG group of pacers to help me cover the last half of the race. I am fortunate to have been able to train with an amazing group of people (without them I would be not be as consistent). I am fortunate to be running relatively injury free (far as ultra standards go). I am fortunate to have great support from friends and family as well. But what about my mindset? I feel like I have always been a strong minded, gut it out, git er dun type of person but the last couple weeks I have had a hard time with that mental edge. That is until I read a great blog post from a friend and fellow HUMR- Lindsay Lauck. I could try and paraphrase what it says or try and sum it up real quick but I am afraid it wouldn’t do it justice. This post really hit me- it spoke to me if you will. It was something I needed not just to hear but read so I could go over it and over it again. I pasted it below (I hope Lindsay doesn’t mind):

I ran on new trails this week, pushed myself up hills, climbed mountains and - most significantly - enjoyed it!  Ryan said something to me when we were running at Snow Basin this week.  He was coaching me along, proud of my consistency this week, and helping me stay focused and keep up the pace (probably because the sun was setting, and we were both hungry).  He said, "Most importantly, remember to Be Here Now."  I think I said something smart-assed to him, like "I am here now".  I don't remember. But, he had a point.

I think I am ready to stop comparing myself to others.  Or, to the version of myself I wish I was.  That's not to say I'm not focused on improving and getting better.  I'm about to run the biggest race I have run yet -50 miles.  That's nothing to shake a stick at.  But if you had asked me how I felt about it two months ago, I would have been positive that failing at this race would mean the end to my running career.  I've said it a few times this year, "I need to find another sport."  I just felt inadequate compared to others.  I'm not fast enough.  I'm bad at this. I walk the hills.  I take breaks.  I like rest days.  Beer is delicious.  I don't look as cute in these shorts as some of my running friends.

So, what?

 I like running! I enjoy this!  Actually, my favorite way to see anything is on foot.  I love summiting mountains.  I saw a goat the other day.  Deer!  Moose! I get a rush out of running downhill fast.  I love being outdoors.  I'm going to continue pushing myself.  I will get stronger, better, faster.  I know it takes work, and I am willing to put in the time.  40 mile weeks will become the norm for me, and I will put in longer ones.

But, I am also going to enjoy them.  I'm going to have a good time at races, even at the back of the pack. One day, I will be in the middle of the pack.  I'm going to run new races, and run farther in the future ones. But I will keep in mind that training, running, racing is enjoyable to me. Even at this level.  Even if it isn't as good as other people's levels.

And, I still think beer is delicious

Not much else needs to be said on my part. Pretty much knocks it out of the park. I will always set goals for running and races but maybe the order of my goals will change- #1- Be here now- enjoy it. I truly believe without #1, no matter how well you do, it will not be as fulfilling.

A lot goes into “ultra” running but if you are not present, why do it. If you are not in that moment and not enjoying what you do- is it really worth it?

I want to wish all my friends Good Luck on their journey this week. I hope to share a few beers with you all at the finish. It should be a great day + in the Wasatch Mountains. Thanks to everyone for their support and kinds words. You can follow the race by going to www.wasatch100.com – I will be wearing bib #146.

In 2008 I ran in 34:51- race report here- http://leavenothing-manners.blogspot.com/2008/09/wasatch-1003451.html

In 2011 I ran in 29:46.30- race report here- http://leavenothing-manners.blogspot.com/2011/09/wasatch-100-2011-race-report.html

2012- My goal is 27:30- can I shave 2 more hours? Who knows….I will let you know Saturday.

What I do know is that in a few short days I will “Be Here Now”. And there is no place I would rather be……..

2011- Trying to believe it.

El Vaquero Loco 50k - Race Report

Yes- this place is real.

Warning: This report may be long so I broke into parts. So much happened and I really hope I don’t miss anything and can do it all justice.

PRE-RACE

Let’s start this at the check-in……Afton, Wyoming is a small town so we approached the RD Ty to get some ideas for dinner. He referred us to a local Tex-Mex restaurant on Main Street in town. We parked the car and threw on our brand new cotton race hoodies. Once we got there I looked over the menu for something bland. I wanted to make sure my stomach was in decent shape for the day ahead and what I would normally order at a place like this was sure to cause havoc. I opted for plain nachos and a quesadilla. Was this the right decision??????(More on that later). After dinner we went over to Maverick to get some snacks and beverages for the night. The 3 of us opted for PBR tall boys! As we were checking out I was very happy that the cashier only asked for my ID. She said- “of the 3 of you, you are the only one I questions.”- Oh how I love Afton, the oldest one of the bunch must have looked rather young in his “I Love Bigfoot” trucker hat.

As we drove up to Cottonwood Lake campground to find a place to set up the tent we couldn’t help but notice how beautiful this place was. The mountains were so green and lush, gorgeous streams and the temps were perfect for a guy like me. Unfortunately all the campsites were taken so we got a little “cheeky” and thought- hey let’s just throw our sleeping bags on the picnic tables and sleep under the stars at the race check in…BRILLIANT! We unloaded the car and got our bags and pillows out and I set off to find the port-o-john (Tex-Mex was just setting in). As I strolled back to “camp” I felt a few sprinkles and when I looked over I see Joe and Sue (names have been changed to protect reputations) struggling to put up the 3 room Kelty tent I brought.  I immediately jumped in to help….after I put my tall boy in a safe place. Before we knew it the skies opened up and in the darkness of the pouring rain we looked like a bunch of soaked dogs. About 10-15 minutes on fumbling around in the dark I looked inside the tent and it more less resembled a blow up pool. DAMN! Now what? We decided to drag the tent close to a tree and go to plan C. Joe happened to have a one person back pack tent and Sue and I got the joy of sleeping in the car.  After we all changed into something dry we hunkered down for a few hours of shut eye. About an hour later as I try to sleep, you hear the sound of a car horn- WTH! Scared the Tex-Mex right out of me. It was Sue trying to get comfy. I had enough of the Lexus recliner so I grabbed my sleeping pad and bag and laid it outside next to the car on the wet gravel lot (rain had stopped by now). I tried to sleep but hearing all the cracking of limbs in the woods as well and the big crawlies that kept trying to get in my sleeping bag it was futile.  I think I got a solid 2 hours before the alarm went off at 4:30 am. Ahh---refreshed and energized I awoke and started off to the port-o-john yet again (do you see a theme coming on here?).

Game Time

I got my UltrAspire Kinetic vest ready, run gear on and slapped on my brand new HUMR trucker hat and I was good to go. Joe and I were set as we toed the line for a long day in the hills. Sue opted for the 25k since she had a larger animal tame in 7 days time. I did the best I could to wake up and get ready but the lack of sleep was no bueno. Ty hollered- Go and we were off. We ran through the campground a few hundred yards before we jumped on a trail and started our 4 mile climb. I got a little worried after only about a half mile. My breathing was really labored and my heart was racing way to fast. It was early and I had to really back off to a pedestrian pace (yes slower than my normal pace) to see if I could get things under control. I felt like the entire field passed me here and I started to wonder what in the world the day had in store for me. After about 4 miles of heading up we hit the top and WOW- what a view. It was stunning! My legs felt heavy still from SpeedGoat but I finally got my heart rate down and my breathing under control. Here is where I knew I had to go hard to catch up on some lost time. We had a set of switch backs and we descended quickly.  We hit the first AS and I just filled up on a little water and kept on trucking (I was in a trucker hat after all). The next few miles I just tried to keep my head down and slog away on my tired legs. The scenery was unreal and I stopped many times to take a few pictures and just take it all in. 

After running on plush single track surrounded my wildflowers and passing a few waterfalls we hit the first lake. Breath-taking! As we ran past the lake I couldn’t help but feel so lucky that I was able to be there right then. Ultra-running has given me such a blessed life of seeing some of the most spectacular things I have ever seen.

Almost to the first lake

There it is

After lake #2- hands on thighs buddy

We passed the lake and headed up a sort steep little climb only to come up on another beautiful lake. We descended a few hundred feet and started up a real steep climb that would lead us to 7 miles on downhill running to the turnaround. Here I had to make a few Tex-Mex stops which are never fun and just tried to cruise into the turnaround. We ran through waist high to shoulder high flowers, crossed streams, ran through meadows and pockets of trees- this my friends was surreal! About a couple miles before the turnaround the 25k runners started heading towards us. I saw Sue as she went across a stream on a log.

At the turnaround I saw Joe and he waited a few minutes while I refilled my bottles and we started the long 7 mile climb back to the lakes. 

Heading back after the turnaround

This section was a grind! If it wasn’t’ for the view this day would have felt like an eternity. As we approached the lakes we knew we only had a few more climbs and 4 miles down to the finish. It was uneventful through here and when I got to the last AS I saw the long switch back climb back to the top. YUCK! I was in no mood for this. When I do these silly races I like to stay motivated and play games in my head. My goal in every race is to not get passed by anyone after the last AS. Today would be a challenge. I was beat. I left the last AS and started the steep grind. It didn’t last too long but I was on tired legs and fueled by Tex-Mex. As I slogged up out of nowhere some guy came cruising by me. WTH? He had to be a 25k runner..checked the bib…nope 50k – DAMN! This too was no bueno.  As I approached the top I tried to keep him in sight because being passed was not acceptable. I hit the peak and now it was time for business. The descent to the finish was steep and rocky. It was flat out ugly. I had about 4 miles to catch this yahoo and I was really in no mood for it. I took off down the mountain and didn’t see anyone in front of me. I started to increase the pace best I could considering my condition. After about a mile of this I saw him….walking. BONUS! He then glanced back and saw me and was off. Okay- you wanna play that way I thought. I kept gaining on him until I was side by side- I said hello and nice job but he was silent…..dink. As I passed I felt him fall right in behind me and match my pace. So this was how my day was going to end, a 50k course and I would be racing 2+ miles of it. After a few hundred yards he was still right on me. I knew what I wanted to do but doing was going to be no fun at all. With about 2 miles to go I decided it was time to go to the pain cave and see what I had. I immediately picked up the pace and took off. The bandana wearing drafter stayed right with me. Uh-oh….the plan was not working. I took it up a notch and kept my head down. He was still there. I knew I didn’t have another gear this far from the finish so I just kept it there and hoped for the best. We were approaching a small hill and I decided to try one more thing- when we got to the base of the small hill I gunned it! (okay it felt like I gunned it). I kept my head down, told my legs to shut up and do what I told them- literally I spoke out loud. Once I started down the back side of the hill we had about a mile to go and when I glanced back he was gone. I kept the pedal down and didn’t take any chances. As I approached the campground and the finish I felt a sense of relief. People cheered and kids gave a few high-5’s and I strolled across the finish in 8:07. Much slower than I predicted but oh well. I closed it out and felt good about that.

POST RACE

After the race I spoke to Ty, got my finishers award and just plopped down in the closest chair. Sue (who had been done for a few hours) got me some Ultragen and water and I just relaxed and cheered on the other runners. The guy I battled came in about 5 minutes after me- my guess is he almost walked it in. I was happy to see Joe come across followed by Emily. Bryce was done long before us and we exchanged how great and tough this course really is. It was a great day for HUMR nation and the most beautiful course I have had the pleasure of running. Overall this was another good trainer for Wasatch that is just over 3 weeks away. I recommend this race to all and I will definitely be back. Ty does a great job and the course is second to none. El Vaquero Loco- you got a huge fan! Congrats Bryce, Emily, Joel and Shawn (oops I used real names) - proud to know you all. Lessons learned: No Tex-Mex the night before and get at least a decent night’s sleep.

THOUGHTS

Sometimes I focus too much on my time, place, finishing and how slow I go when I need to shift my focus on where I am and what I am doing. This race was a great reminder (even if it has taken a few days to figure out). I am healthy and have a great life. I have great friends who I get to share my mountain passions with. I belong to a unique community that is hard to understand unless you too are a card carrying member. I am lucky to be able to do these crazy things and for that I am truly thankful. Running ultras has taught me that I really can do anything I set my mind too and with the support of so many it can even be fun. I am healthy. I am happy. I am lucky. I am blessed. I am a HUMR!

SpeedGoat 50k Race Report 9:07

The HUMR Crew (Post-race)- Photo: Lori Burlison

I must admit that when I register for races I rarely if ever read the waiver. I skip all the mumbo jumbo and sign it or initial it. After running.....scratch that- hiking this race, I went back to read the waiver and NO WHERE on it does it have the warning- "This may cause potty mouth". News Flash...IT DOES.

Post-Race- taking it in...Photo by: Lori Burlison

I only decided to run the race a day or 2 before. Even though I have been registered for months I have been battling a sore hip/buttocks and wasn't sure if I really wanted to test it out on this monster of a course. I knew with Wasatch a little over a month away that this would be a solid run to have under my belt to maybe add a little confidence. In ultra running you need to become intimate with pain and today felt like a good day to be a little frisky with her.

When I arrived at the check in it was a who's who in ultra running.....boy was I ever out of place. As I waited in line for my bib I saw some familiar faces and played catch up with people I don't see too often which is always a high light. We got our last minute instructions and meandered over to the start area for the beginning of a very long day. I have run this race 2 other times but once again there were some changes with the course. Knowing Karl I knew this year would be the toughest yet. 

The race was one and I watched the leader take off- pretty impressive! I filed into my usual area- about mid pack- and started up the mountain. I woke up extra early for the race to work on some stretching and foam rolling to see if I could get nice and loose for the initial climb. After a few hundred yards I was a little disappointed to still be so tight. I dropped even farther back and was not thrilled about how my butt and calves felt. We climbed for a bit then descended some and I was hoping this little section of downhill would knock some things loose and allow me to pick up the pace to the top. When we started to climb more I was still pretty tight but I just kept my head down and tried to push through it. We hit mile 4 and I filled a bottle and kept on going. I knew I needed to nail my nutrition and hydration today if I wanted to survive this SOB. My goal was to hit the top of the first climb in 2 hours and the closer I got the more I realized it wasn't going to happen. I started to feel pretty good before we hit the cirque and I fond another gear. I hit the top about 2:20. Not thrilled but hey- I made it to the top. There was a crew of HUMR supporters (best people on the planet) up there that really lifter my frown and when I looked up I also saw Bryce, Cory and Bryce (from UltrAspire). Cory and Bryce quickly came over and offered a hand. I felt like royalty. I look up to both these guys not only because how amazing they run around the trails but because they are amazing people to boot. They had me in and out in no time. Next up was a long descent though some wild flowers and boy was it purdy! I can usually move pretty quick going down so I was ready to make up some time. 

                                            Heading down from Hidden-  Photo by: Lori Burlison

Made it through the flowers and came across Curtis and Joel, hit a little climb then it was time to navigate a pretty tough and technical section on the way to Pacific Mine. Here is where things got worse.....it hurt to run. Crap- I am in a trail race/run and running downhill hurt. Problem- there are only 2 types of sections in this race- up and down. I hobbled ever so slowly into Pacific Mines and my mental state was fading. There is a mile or so section that is an out and back and you have to opportunity to see some runner a head of you and lucky for me there were some familiar faces that help quickly change my mood..(so a special thanks to Jared, Steve, Shawn, Jill, Jim, Breein).

Love the flowers- Photo by: Lori Burlison

 I hit Pacific Mines, filled the bottles and was off. It was now time for big climb #2. On the way up to Larry's Hole I just wanted to stay consistent. No stopping and no slowing down- one foot after the other. Over half way up I came across Ryan who was having a tough time but still managed to shoot me a smile and a "go get em" attitude- thanks Ryan! I came through the next AS and Mike was there with some very encouraging words. There was s tough climb back up and I still just kept my head down and grinded it out. I was on top of my nutrition for sure! My climbing legs were holding together nicely and I got a pep in my giddy up. I made the top of the climb and began a small downhill on the service road before the climb to baldy. As I slowly trotted down the service road I tried to look ahead to see where we were going next. I saw runners high on the ridge heading to Baldy but couldn't figure out how they got there. There in the middle of the road was a volunteer and he was looking up. As I arrived he said "turn here and follow the flags." ARE YOU KIDDING ME!- I thought. It was straight up and no trail to speak of. This section almost crushed me.

Once I finished the climb and was on top of Baldy it was time to descend back down to the Tunnel. As I  hit the service road there was Britta and Bryce (UltrAspire) with some atta boys and smiles. WOW- did I ever need that! 

 After Baldy- heading towards the tunnel-  Photo by: Britta Trepp

Picked me right up and I shifted gears and cruised into Tunnel. I passed Lindsay on the road and she was smiling and taking pictures (they turned out amazing). At the Tunnel I was once again taken care of this time by Shane. He had me in and out on no time and on my way through the Peruvian Tunnel and down the service road en route to the last climb...."the ridge".

The past two times I have run this race the ridge broke me. This year I was determined not to let it get to me. It isn't the toughest climb but it sucks! When I finally started up the ridge I was hell bent on not slowing or stopping. I popped a Pre-Race cap, took some big swigs of EFS LS and set my mind to attack mode. I didn't waiver and though I was getting worked I really wanted to get to Hidden quickly as possible. I hit Hidden and I was pumped. I did what i set out to do on this section and though its short and not the whole race I felt like the other two times it took something from me and I wanted it back. Well, thank you very much "Ridge"- I got "IT" back.

On top of Hidden I was greeted by Larry, his wife and daughter. They more than took care of me. I quickly took off my pack and grabbed a handheld I stashed in my drop bag. I wanted to hit this last 5 miles quick. PROBLEM: running down hill hurt too damn bad. I set out to go sub 8 which quickly changed to sub 9 but once on Hidden I knew that would be a stretch. The next 5 miles were uneventful  and slow and go. My hip and butt wouldn't allow me to push but in my mind I was just happy to be finishing. 

I came across in 9:07 (almost 12,000' of gain!). Not a time I was looking for but got the finish and gained a little confidence heading towards Wasatch. I nailed my nutrition which was a HUGE positive.....Hopefully I am getting the hang of this a bit more.

Overall, the day was a success. I got to trudge around some beautiful mountains and share it with a awesome group of people. Congrats to all my friends who took on SpeedGoat - well done! 

A special thanks to all those out there that shot me a smile, words of encouragement and lent a hand. You all played a HUGE role for me and for that I am grateful. 

Next up El Vaquero Loco 50k- August 11th.....

Oh- see you next year SpeedGoat......you SOB.

                                                 Post- Race pain- Photo by: Lori Burlison