2014- A New Year with renewed hope

Here we go- the start of a new year. I can honestly say I was very excited for 2013 to end.
I cannot blame everything on unlucky '13' but I tried.
2014 will be a new chapter and a new chance to chase a few goals and dreams. The plan is to start slow and easy and be smart. Slow and easy will not be a problem for those who know me but being smart may.
Right now I am training hard at Bomber Athlete to get a little stronger and gain some confidence. I started running after a long lay off and so far so good. I have rededicated myself to proper eating and I have surrounded myself with some amazing people. The only thing I need to get in line is me. Simple. Right?
Part of the challenge I am throwing down for myself is to be more consistent with everything- running, eating, sleeping, recovering and blogging. The purpose to be more consistent here it to hold myself more accountable. Accountability and dependability are 2 very key 'abilities' that I need to tap into in order to make 2014 the success I am looking for.
On the left hand side is my race schedule for 2014 and I am very excited by it. I officially started the year with a run with the HUMR group and been plowing forward since.
2014 can be magical if I want it to be.
So here is to 2014- good luck, be safe and dream big!

Gutted...

Well, it's broken. My cuboid bone in my left foot is fractured and has put me out of the 2013 Wasatch 100. After last years issues at Wasatch this race has been circled on my calendar. I hit the lottery in February and endured some tough and fun training but it appears once again it is not meant to be.
After finding out about this last week I have been through a few different emotions. There was of course- anger, sadness, disappointment, anger, frustration, questioning, wondering, anger (did I say that) and pity. Trying to put things in perspective brought me to an all so cliche' thought. You have heard it and said it to yourself many times- "What if this is the last time?"
I remember back to my sub 30 finish at Wasatch and the last 18 miles. I was off pace to go sub 30 but I kept pushing myself. Since Wasatch is a lottery (although good odds to get in) I remember telling myself- "What if this is your last Wasatch?", "What if this is your last race?", "What if this is the closest you ever get to a sub 30?". Well it wasn't any of those but by thinking those things I believe I was able to push myself a bit more to get my sub 30 I trained for.
In reality, this is just a race, this is my "hobby", it isn't life or death and yes there are more important things in the world but right now it doesn't make things any easier. What it does it helps me put it in perspective just a little bit more. Do I run trails only to race? No, I have met some amazing people that I would have otherwise never met. I have experienced things I would have never had the pleasure of seeing/doing. The race is the celebration. It's the culmination of the work you have put in.
As I sit and work on my schedule for the next couple weeks of swimming and cycling, I am hoping to gain even more perspective of why I do this.
The plan as of Monday August 26th, 2013 at 2:08 pm is to toe the starting line of the Bear 100 in 5 short weeks. As a friend of mine (Phil Lowry) told me over the weekend on a phone call- "I think you can walk the entire Bear under 36 hours." I will wait a couple more weeks to get the next MRI to see how the foot is healing and if I get good news, I will get my drop bags ready for a long 30+ hours in the in the mountains. I will obviously not be in great running shape and will need to curb all expectations but I really do want to do this. I want to finish the year on a positive note and carry that over to next year.
I am not going out with anything to prove, I am not going out to show anything, I am going out there to celebrate another great year I got to spend doing something I enjoy......
So good luck you Wasatch runners and for all of you running the Bear- I really hope to share the start and finish with ya!

El Vaquero Loco 50k- Race Report

Wassup? (Photo: Forrest Stuart)

It has been awhile...not just since my last post but since I last raced. I wish I could say I forgot my password to log into my blog but that isn't the case. It has been a mixture of being busy and lazy - I will call it 50/50. Either way a lot has happened since my last post- post race foot injury from Buffalo run which kept me out of solid training for a couple months, a few DNS and then an epic trip to Silverton for Softrock. Between all that, I got some new major responsibilities at work and I tried to be a solid dad and husband. I think with juggling all those things I didn't reach heights in any of them. So lets call March until August mediocre. Enough of that let's get to a report about my favorite race- El Vaquero Loco!

This race found its way into my heart last year and I have been excited ever since to get back. You combine the stunning views with a well organized race then throw in a solid course and top that with an amazing RD and well- you get a trails runners piece of heaven.
I headed up early Friday morning with Curtis, Jim and Corey to make sure we got a good camp spot for us and the rest of the HUMR crew. After last years debacle, this little piece of the story was a must and very critical. We pulled into the Cottonwood Lake CG and found just the spot to call home. We set up camp and headed back into town for some lunch. After lunch we headed back to camp to wait for the rest of our HUMR family. Our crew brought all kinds of food and we started a fire and began our a nice little HUMR potluck- campground style. After we hit the buffet we set off to check into the race. We collected our nice race SWEATSHIRT and got our bibs and chips. We then headed back to Camp HUMR for the night. After a few hours of "story time" we all headed off to get some much needed rest....night-night time.

Camp HUMR

Saturday morning 5 am- Camp HUMR came to life- sort of. You could hear tents unzipping and trailer doors closing and the steady flow of morning relief. After we got ready we all headed over to the start line and eagerly awaited the start.
Mr. Ty Draney got us underway and as I ran by Camp HUMR I stopped to grab my UltrAspire Alpha vest before I headed up a solid 3 1/2 mile grinder up the mountain. I saw several familiar faces and places on the climb and just wanted to take it steady. No rush, no push. After reaching the top I tightened my laces for some fun singletrack switchbacks. The views are amazing and since I was familiar with the course I was excited to get going as I anticipated every turn. As we came up to the first of the 2 alpine lakes I was reminded of the biggest reason why I run these races. After the climb out of the 2nd lake it was time for 7+ miles of downhill with a couple little rollers thrown in near the turn around in order to keep us honest. A few miles before the turnaround I saw the 50k leader and eventual winner -to no ones surprise, Luke Nelson. He is truly one of the great people in the sport and it is always a pleasure to see him. Sometime after seeing Luke the 25k runners started coming through. This is where it can get spooky on the singletrack. As I got the a stream crossing I saw a line of 25k runners lined up ready to cross on a log bridge. I wasn't in the mood to wait so I plowed right through the creek with out breaking stride. It felt great and made the 5th grader in me smile. As I was exiting the creek a few runners got a little upset that I apparently splashed them and for that I am extremely sorry ;).

How I felt before the race.

How I felt near the end of the race.

At the turnaround I was greeted and heckled a bit by the RD as he complimented me on my calves and posterior. He knew it was all due to my Skecher Shape-ups he accused me of wearing. At the AS I saw Lane and Steve with a amazing HUMR AS of their own. I grab a couple slices of bacon and chugged a itty bitty Coke- it made me feel like a GIANT! I waited a few minutes for Jim so I would have someone to pull me up the 7 1/2 mile grind back to the lakes. Jim and I ran together for most of this section and as we saw a waterfall he said- "most people will never get to see that". How true and more on that later. As we left the second lake something happened that has never happened to me before in a 50k- I started to get sick. I let Jim go and I started to walk to figure out what was going on. Here is where I began to think:

• Where I was in the race? 
• How much time was I wasting? 
• How many people are gonna go by me? 
• Will there still be PBR at the finish when I get back?
• Why is my stomach in knots?

I hit the last AS and spent about 30 minutes sipping on a Coke to see if that would help. I decided that my Whole Food diet I had been on for 4 weeks may have made my stomach a little too snooty for race food. 

I decided I might as well get up and crawl up the last climb and see what happens on the 3 1/2 mile torturous downhill. Right before the climb Breein came up behind with a big smile (yes a real surprise she had a smile) she asked how I was, I mumbled and she then charged on by. About half way up the swithcbacks the my stomach finally started to settle so when I hit the top I took one last look of the amazing view and the feet downhill and just ran..ran to the bottom of that damn mountain. I ran the last couple miles with Breein and when we hit the campground the HUMR crew was there with some cheers and beers. I dropped my pack and headed to the finish to get me some Huckleberry soda.

As I crossed I was glad to be done. Glad to get that one behind me in my preparation for Wasatch. 

It wasn't the race I was hoping for but I got a real god reminder that I hope to carry with me from here on out.

• Don't worry or think about where you are in the race, think about where you are.

So here are a few things that I thought about throughout the race.

• This is the most beautiful course I have ever been on.
• I miss races like this that DO NOT get too hyped.
• I miss camping.
• Wonder what Luke could do on this course with someone really pushing him.
• Being a HUMR is pretty special.
• I bet a raspberry filled powdered donut would help my sick stomach.
• I wish Wasatch was 2 months away.
• Squirrel!

All in all not a great race but I hope to keep in mind more the real reason I do this.

Congrats to all the HUMR's and runners. And to you Mr Ty Draney if you ever stumble on this blog post, I want you to know I am starting a new campaign to make sure you "KEEP EL VAQUERO LOCO ALIVE!"

Post race: Lake Yoga (Photo: Jo Agnew)

Pre-Race- Buffalo Run 50

Spring is here! Well technically it is a day or 2 away but at least dirt is finally here. Getting out on some dirt and rocks has proven to be a huge lift in training. My mind and body were going through a bit of a lull with all this snow. It has been great for skiing but poor for trail enjoyment. When the snow first came it was new and fun but after months of cold slip and sliding around it just got old. I stayed off the road and hit the treadmill once and that proved to be a bad idea (power went out and down I went).

With the Buffalo Run 50 only a few short days away I think I finally got my mind wrapped around it. I just need to remind myself that it is not a focus race and there are bigger fish to fry later in the year. I am heading into it less prepared than last year but the weather looks to be on my side with the highs in the mid to upper 40’s- which is a huge plus. Last year it got hot and hot quick- the heat won but I slowly got to the finish. This year I am going to head out and try and enjoy it and not put too much pressure on myself. I need to focus on the journey and not the destination. Unfortunately that is easier said than done but if can dial in the mental part I think it has the chance to be a fun day on the island. I am looking forward to seeing many friends and always making some new ones.

Today marks a new day for me as a runner. I have joined Team PI for 2013. For that past 6 years I have managed the Pearl Izumi Ultra Running Team and they decided to make some changes to their program heading into 2013. I stepped down and away and it has been a hard transition. I helped start the team many years ago with a few others and had big dreams for its future.  It surpassed my dreams in many ways so separating has been rough. However, just last week I was contacted to be an “athlete and ambassador” for Team PI and I was more than touched.  Looking at Team PI’s 2013 roster it was glaringly obvious I would falling more into the ambassador side of it (the roster is loaded with some amazing athletes and it’s a privilege and honor to me linked with them) and I am more than okay with that……I love PI. Their new E:Motion Line and their apparel. I have been a PI billboard for over 6 years and regardless of being on Team PI or not I would be wearing PI with pride. The E:Motion line is amazing- I have been wearing the Trail N1’s for a few months now and they feel great. Being a bigger non-Kenyanesque runner, I can still wear the lighter N1’s without worry up to 40 miles (farthest I have taken them so far).  I plan on using them for the Buffalo Run 50 this Saturday and I am not worried one bit.

I am really looking forward to a race heavy year and all it brings. The biggest challenge for me in 2013 may not be the miles or the physical abuse I am going to put myself through but the mental attitude to keep things in perspective. Being a part of the HUMR group here (Happy Utah Mountain Runners) will be the key. There are so many of them I admire and look up to for their positive attitudes. I just hope I can continue to learn and incorporate all they bring to the table.  They inspire me every day and that just may be what the doctor ordered for 2013.

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

San Juan Solstice 50- Race Report

“This next section is all downhill.”….ah horseshit! (heard at mile 30 AS)

 The San Juan Mountains are big….big and beautiful. For the last 4 years I have really wanted to attempt the San Juan Solstice 50. I waffled a bit this year but finally decided to pull the trigger. On an early morning training run earlier in the year I even talked a few of my trail buddies into joining me. The race itself I knew would be amazing but with the crew I traveled with amazing would be just the beginning!

The drive down is worthy of its own blog post but due to information shared (and the fact I blacked out- not really); you will not see that post so this story will start after the 8+ hour drive. Jon was behind the wheel and we were just excited to finally be in Lake City and out of the car. We drove around town a bit before we arrived at our cabin. We unpacked the car and did a quick recon of our arrangements…rustic but nice. We hopped back into the Soob and drove over to the armory to check in. Here we would eat a nice spread of pre-race food laid out and get some beta on the race and course. After that was over there was only one more thing to do……grab a beer! We knew we needed a few more carbs so we went out and found a water hole and tried to let our minds relax.

Race morning our nerves were on full alert. We packed our vests and filled our bottles as Chewbacca noises filled the morning air. It was almost 4:30 am and we headed down to check in and begin a LONG day trying to reach the sky. I had the pleasure to see some friends- Robert (Bobby) Knight, Brad and Danielle and met a few new ones too. We slowly walked out to the streets to begin and before I knew it…GO! We were off. After about the first 3 miles I could tell the altitude may be a bit of an issue. I had the chance to take a Cialis (which is supposed to help with altitude but I heard really helps with ED) to help with the altitude but the thought of taking that and the a Pre-Race capsule scared me. I didn't want to chance them both working in perfect harmony against me. We were just under 9000’ and we were making our way to 13,000. For those of you who are not familiar with altitude, there isn’t much oxygen to go around up there. Once we got off the dirt road we hit some amazing single track. There were 5 or 6 river/creek crossings and I took advantage of the logs (it was warm so they were not slick) and used my new found Pilates skillz to get across. No wet feet…bonus! The views on the first climb were breath taking- both literally and physically. 

The San Juan’s have a reputation and only a few miles in they were living up to the hype. I was in awe. After a climb that seemed to last forever we peaked out and I felt like I was on top of the world. My legs still felt solid but my breathing was definitely labored. We hit a nice downhill section that took us back to the next aid station around mile 15. On the way down I even got a huge burst of energy and the smile I was looking for when Jared and Lori said hello. Seeing people you know on the trail does more for your mental state than you could imagine! The next few miles were on a road then a dirt road that seemed to never end. We climbed and climbed and finally got to the Carson AS. I arrived at mile 21.5 in decent shape and was real excited to get to mile 25 and run downhill for awhile (was I mistaken). Leaving Carson I decided to go lighter and left my jacket and gloves. The pre race temps called for 70-75 and on these peaks anything is possible but unfortunately for me race day was hot! As we got closer to the top it started to really heat up. I took advantage of the creeks and the little snow that was left and got my bandana wet as well as my hat. The water was ice cold and felt like heaven. As I got closer to 13,300’I noticed a cloud moving in. DAMN! I had no jacket or anything warm and my shirt, hat and bandana were soaking. I thought to myself- this could be bad. However, the closer I got the more I realized that these were not rain clouds but clouds of smoke from the fires that have been burning for so long in Colorado. Looking back, I would have much rather taken rain clouds than these lung fillers.

Since I started running races about 4-5 years ago I always run with a spent shell casing from my father’s funeral. He had a military burial and every time I race I take the same casing along and it helps me remember why I fell in love with the outdoors. As I walked past the Continental Divide and peaked out for the day I stopped momentarily to take in the views. 

The pole reads "Continental Divide"

I looked and notice a large rock cairn that had 360 degree views. It was there that I decided I was going to leave the casing. I kept thinking how much my dad would have loved the view. I knelt down said a few words and kept pushing forward. It was a good thing I was running solo through here because the next few miles got pretty emotional.

If you look close you can see the casing on the rock

 It seemed like I was above tree line FOREVER! I never thought I was going to make it to the next AS. It was supposed to be 9 miles but it felt like 15. Once we got back into the trees I picked up the pace and put my head down. Once I arrived at mile 31 I couldn’t have been more relieved but when I noticed my time relief slowly stepped aside for disappointment. I was nowhere near where I thought I would be time wise. I guess the climbs and the fact I was moving slowly gasping for air took a bigger toll that I thought.

I asked the AS crew what to expect the next 9 miles to the next stop and they told me- “It 9 miles of downhill…cruising section.” SA-weet, I thought. I looked at the profile and I knew it was downhill but they knew the area and I thought I had a shot to make up time. I took off with a smile which shortly turned to a frown when I saw more climbing- not climbing like we have done but it was still climbing….little rollers as they will be known from now on. I ran what I could and walked when I couldn’t. The last few miles before the AS were nasty- technical downhill that made your quads a little unhappy. As I approached mile 40 there was a pretty good size crowd and the cheers and “atta boys” really lifted my spirits. I saw Jared and he let me know that Bj wasn’t too far ahead and was just waiting for someone to catch up to him. I quickly grabbed an otter pop, refilled a bottle and tried to get mentally ready to hit the last and final climb- 1700’ in a couple miles. I hit the climb hoping to catch up to Bj and run it in with someone but as I slowly began to realize, this wasn’t going to happen.  I started to slow and my breathing got more labored. I started to feel a little dizzy then my vision got a little blurry. I decided to sit down and try and regroup- only 6 or so miles to the finish. I ended up lying down and by the time I came too (about 20-30 minutes) I was covered in ants. PERFECT! Once I dusted them off I kept up the climb. The downhill was pretty technical and made my toes hurt. I really just wanted this to be over and when I hit town I down shifted even more. I had a nice trot going until the final stretch so then I decided to pick up the pace. I finished in a blazing time of 14:49! Okay, not blazing but if you go back to the last sentence there is a word underlined…go ahead and look back, I will wait…….yep- FINISHED. 

Yes I am disappointed with my time but finishing is really my ultimate goal. After Zion a month ago I don’t want to take finishing too lightly. This is one of the toughest races I have done but also one of the most beautiful. No doubt the altitude and elevation played a lot into it but there is always something...right? The people, RD, volunteers, runners, stores…everyone were fantastic! It is well organized, well marked (whew!) and just all around well done. I will be heading back to this race without a doubt. It will always hold a good memory and leaving the spent casing there was the perfect thing to do.  We all run these races for different reason and I may be finally figuring out why I love it so much.

The results are not posted yet but a huge congrats to my fellow HUMR’s- you all did amazing. It was a privilege to be down there with you all and to share that time. The car trip is our little secret though…..right?

Timp Trail Marathon- Race Report

Moab Red Hot 55k- nope, Buffalo Run 50- nope, Zion 100- ha-ha-ha -NOPE, Timp Trail Marathon- Whew- Finally! A race for 2012 that I can hobble away from and feel pretty good about.\
I ran this race during its first year a couple years ago and immediately fell in love with the course. Amazing views, killer climbs, water falls, meadows, quakies, quad numbing downhill- this race has it all- 26+ miles of of bliss.
On the way down to the race I was absolutely not feeling like running let alone racing. I was tired, mentally not ready and tired (yes, I already said that). The start/finish of the race is located just down the street from the Squaw Peak 50 and it is one of the better venues I have been to. Once we pulled up and checked in we had about 10 minutes to get ready and over to the start. I took a chance and just wore a short sleeve shirt with no jacket or anything. Forecast was calling for rain but not until late morning/early afternoon. I thought this would help me remember to get it done before the rains hit. We mingled for a few minutes, took a few pictures with friends and the next thing I know people were running. I started the watch and began a nice little grind on the service road as we started to go up. I hadn't put much thought into the race and only took a waste belt with one handheld (which proved to be perfect!). The first 200+ yards I began to see how the legs and mind felt, both seemed like they were responding okay considering there were lingering thought of the Zion 100 just 2 weeks ago. After a long straight stretch on the service road I had a game plan- go out hard, hit the big climb to the waterfall and see if you had anything left. Simple. This wasn't a focus race and I was only 1 week out of the epic HUMR Beer Mile (placed 3rd). Once we got off the service road there is some real nice singletrack through a meadow then onto some more service road then some sweet singletrack again- all runnable. I just kept my pace steady and would not allow myself to back off the pedal for a minute. In and out of the aid station and feeling pretty strong. I had one handheld loaded with water and EFS along with a couple flask of EFS Kona LS. As i came to the first climb I wanted to try and attack it a bit to ensure I made good time. I felt pretty solid heading up and soon came to the top and hit some more sweet singletrack. Once the long climb up to the waterfall started I felt my energy take a dip so I threw down and Pre-Race capsule from First Endurance. That was very well played! I immediately regained some zip and kept on churning. About mile 14 my good buddy Jim passed me and I heard him comment we wanted to go sub 5. I thought to myself- try and keep him in sight and I had a good chance to go sub 5 too. As we continued to climb I felt pretty good and when we hit the waterfall I still had sight of him. I must have missed a nip or 2 on the Kona flask because again I felt a small dip in juice. I was expending more energy and not refueling. I hit the flask hard a few times and before I knew it the zip had returned. Above the quakies we finally hit the top of climb and the breath taking meadow at the top. It was time to open it up again and go for it. Once I cleared the meadow we started so technical steep singletrack and I just kept it in gear. I caught up to Jim and he mentioned if I kept it up I could go sub 5- damn you Jim! I went into the race looking for a 5:30-5:45. Now that I had about 10 miles to go I decided to go for broke. The last 10 miles kind of reminded me of last years Wasatch race for me. I was getting after it and my quads were letting me know- sub 7, sub 7:30 (hey, that's fast for me). Once I finally popped out to the service road to see the last mile plus to the finish I saw I was not going to go sub 5. Once that hit me I just pulled back a bit and really enjoyed the last mile. I came across the finish in 5:11 and felt great. PR's the course by over an hour and even surprised myself a bit. (16th overall and 4th in my age group)
Besides the race, the trail, the views, the weather and everything- the thing I noticed most was my smile. I had FUN! It was one of those days/times that I can look back on and smile. After Zion I was a little beaten down. I tend to get pretty hard on myself (so I am told) but after Timp it was all washed away. I was re-charged. I went into the race with no real expectations, no real thought and really no game plan. It reminded me of my college soccer days when people would tell me - not to think, just play. Well today I didn' think I just ran. At times I probably looked like a kid on the playground or even Phoebe from "Friends"- but I didn't care. It felt as pure as IPA on tap.
I also want to congratulate some of my running peeps for the race they threw down:
 Britta- 1st place female and CR (ran Ogden marathon a week earlier in 3:11- next week SP50)
 Ryan- was resting and laughing before I saw the finish
 Jim- right behind me with a PR
 Shawn- 3rd female overall and age group winner
 Breein- looking smooth and happy as she worked the finish chute
Alicia- fighting the rain to get one last long run in before SP50
Congrats to everyone on the day.
And if you see me on the trails in the future- tell me to smile!
Next up San Juan Solstice 50- time to get my vert on!