tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72990861437905295672024-03-12T16:05:50.043-07:00A Life on the RunRunner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.comBlogger371125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-52352605626076965522011-10-15T17:48:00.000-07:002011-10-15T17:48:00.196-07:00Western States 100 Mile: the River Crossing to Green Gate<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbmsEIQPZ7cngKCWmD7_u8GBN41Yh6CDGuRLpX9K8aOyJ5BGLinTum3yvU9Z8ozHK5m3y1qDuKDare9C3Y_TtPl3-cjF3yk-EKvfZs5MT6fGs5gNwa2kWAjMkpk9mQYXMF6lBbsK774Rc/s1600/P6262078.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbmsEIQPZ7cngKCWmD7_u8GBN41Yh6CDGuRLpX9K8aOyJ5BGLinTum3yvU9Z8ozHK5m3y1qDuKDare9C3Y_TtPl3-cjF3yk-EKvfZs5MT6fGs5gNwa2kWAjMkpk9mQYXMF6lBbsK774Rc/s320/P6262078.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662772947634907842" /></a>Little did I know there was the potential for aliens on the course. I had pepper spray for bears/cougars, I had snake proof gaiters for rattlesnakes, copperheads (do they have these in CA?) and a cape to make myself large for the puma's. But I had nothing for alien abduction...but in the future I will be prepared.<div><br /></div><div>This was at the alien aid station which was filled with super nice and helpful volunteers (as with all the aid stations at Western States 100 miler). I am a little confused about what the alien was holding in it's hand but I believe it might have been the course marking ribbon. Or it could be a human probber. It's a tough call.</div><div><br /></div><div>I do not believe I was abducted however, I think Iva and I might have seen a fox and/or a skunk. As I recall foxes do have a scent like a skunk and at the same time I smelled the skunk like odor is when I saw the fox like creature.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><p class="MsoNormal">As we waited for the next runner to catch up for the ferry across the river I chatted with the volunteers.<span> </span>I re-thanked all the volunteers along the steep climb down yelling at the top of my lungs.<span> </span>Then I burst into song!<span> </span>It was time for “Row Row Your Boat!:”<span> </span>I may have changed the words a bit including the suggestion they should row row row the boat to Auburn!<span> </span>I was not above skipping the next 20 miles or so particularly since a lot was to be in the dark.<span> </span>And I love raft rides.</p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">I may have made a spectacle of myself.<span> </span>But I was having so much fun and everyone was so WONDERFUL!<span> </span>And by this time I was no longer hearing the air horn creeping up behind me so I was starting to believe that I could make it to the finish assuming all went well.</p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">As we waited patiently for the next runner his pacer joined us in the boat.<span> </span>It was my friend Jimmy Dean Freeman’s brother from the SoCal Coyotes.<span> </span>I knew<span> </span>Jimmy from JJ100 so it was cool to meet his brother.<span> </span>Finally his runner arrived.<span> </span>Sadly his runner did not appreciate the crossing as much as I did.<span> </span>And he looked a bit pukey.<span> </span>I tried to discretely move away because I think puking is contagious and on a boat you are kind of limited in how you can escape.<span> </span>In fact after finishing we learned he did puke pretty quickly after getting to the other side of the river.<span> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">The crossing went pretty quickly.<span> </span>Perhaps even faster as I started yelling, “Faster, Faster!” to encourage our rowers to get the lead out (or whatever the boating term for rushing is).<span> </span>They did row quickly and efficiently thus all too soon we were across and my brief stint at sitting was over.<span> </span>Because of potential puking guy, I scurried out pretty quickly.<span> </span>Somehow I was relieved of my life jacket (this I really have no recollection of) and I was being gently handed from the boat personnel to the land personal over a small jetty.<span> </span>And it was back to running/walking.</p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">After a quick “Thank you” to the rafting volunteers and a really loud “THANK YOU” for the volunteers on the other side I was ready to head up the 1 + mile hill to Green Gate.<span> </span>What an AMAZING experience.<span> </span>In fact I would say it is the memory that may be a top 10 in my life.</p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">As we passed the far Rucky Chucky aid station I grabbed a bite or two and a small glass of ginger ale to ward off sour stomach.<span> </span>Although I had a drop bag at this aid station, I did not make use of it but simply headed up to Green Gate which I was going to get a fresh pacer: Pacer Shane.</p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Hiking up to Green Gate I knew it was going to be a bit steep and long.<span> </span>But it was nothing compared to earlier in the day.<span> </span>And at the top I would get to see Shane and Tristan.<span> </span>This motivated me to keep moving forward with purpose.<span> </span>I was getting pretty excited and knew that I was feeling super strong and so happy.<span> </span>I had made it 78 miles and I was moving forward with purpose.</p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">As Iva and I arrived at Green Gate I was impressed with the green gate decorated with christmas lights.<span> </span>It was really cool.<span> </span>But there was a problem.<span> </span>No Tristan or Shane.<span> </span>I ate and drank than moved along a bit alarmed.<span> </span>I told Iva I could keep running by myself because by this time she was fatigued and her legs were starting to bother her.<span> </span>She had committed to 25 miles and had made it that far so I was happy.<span> </span>I knew the sun would be rising moderately soon.<span> </span>And I have dropped pacers before and although a bit of a bummer I figured I could keep moving forward alone.<span> </span>This anxiety was soon lifted when we rounded the final hill and there was Tristan and Shane as well as other pacers and pacers.<span> </span>Unfortunately the volunteers were not letting them go to the aid station and the aid station volunteers were not communicating this information to runners, which was very disconcerting.</p></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-24448567162481226192011-10-13T17:46:00.000-07:002011-10-13T17:46:00.392-07:00Western States 100 Mile: Foresthill to the River Crossing<div>You are only allowed one pacer in this area so Iva and a very nice volunteer help me with my shoe change.<span> </span>During my shoe change, I am not the well-oiled machine I hoped to be.<span> </span>But I don’t screw up either, which is good.<span> </span>I take off everything on my feet and wipe up fastidiously.<span> </span>This gets some comments from the peanut gallery.<span> </span>But I am happy to be off my feet for a few minutes and ensuring my feet a clean, dry, well glided and do not have any issues that could become catastrophe’s are important to me.<span> </span>I then do the same for my other foot.<span> </span>This time I pay particular attention when putting on my zensah sleeves having experienced a bit of a fiasco earlier in the day.<span> </span></div><div><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">After taking care of my feet it is time to wet wipe my hands and take out my contacts.<span> </span>Ahh!<span> </span>What a relief.<span> </span>Because my contacts are so thick (thanks to very bad astigmatism), my eyes bother me a lot when wearing contacts.<span> </span>Mix in lack of humidity and dust and my eyes were a disaster.<span> </span>In fact later at Dardenelles my eyes continue to bother me so much I ask a volunteer to put my eye drops in my eyes because I am not skilled at this (in fact I am not skilled at much and sometimes it just shocks me that I make it through any given day!).<span> </span>Finally I complete all my tasks, it is time to eat.</p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">I grab a grilled cheese sandwich and a cup of soup and head off for the finish line.<span> </span>I am past mile 62 and for the first aid station since mile 20 I do not hear the air horn!<span> </span>I want to keep it this way.<span> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Running out of Foresthill I am a little bummed that I seem to lose members of “Team Tammy”: Tristan, Shane and Bella pretty quickly although they could run about half a mile with me.<span> </span>Oh well, it’s probably because I am running too fast!</p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Once Iva and I get to the turnoff of Foresthill Road I warn Iva that we are going to hit a fairly steep section soon.<span> </span>We have a brief respite then somehow the steep section I make it down without any issues.<span> </span>It is kind of odd because I had made a mental note that we had a pretty challenging section immediately following Foresthill.<span> </span>Perhaps it was being so excited about not hearing the air horn, being well fed/hydrated or knowing for the remainder of the race I would be escorted to the finish!<span> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">After announcing how I spent my day: running, followed by more running, with a little more running for good measure I ask Iva about how everyone on “Team Tammy” spent their day.<span> </span>This includes what they did as well as what was eaten (in fact a good meal can entertain me for hours!).<span> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Iva chats about their daily activities.<span> </span>After getting woken up by my cell phone (the SPOT people called that cell phone as well to assess my situation), Iva, Bella, Shane, Tristan and my dad packed the hotel room then headed to Donner Pass to see the museum.<span> </span>Each of my friends learned what a disaster it is to go to a museum with my dad who likes to read all the placards.<span> </span>After several hours they all bailed while my dad stayed at the museum until likely closing!<span> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Iva mentioned that the highlight of this museum was seeing how deep the snow was.<span> </span>There was a schematic that indicated where 20 feet was which is how deep the snow was that winter.<span> </span>She also mentioned that the museum was a bit disappointing to Tristan and my dad who knew the truth of the Donner Party (eating each other is the unvarnished truth).<span> </span>In fact there was no mention of the cannibalism in the museum but it sounded like both Tristan and more so my dad tried to incite the docent into admitting to what happened.<span> </span>I think I would have asked even more pointed questions along the lines of “human, white or dark meat?”<span> </span>But alas I guess in this day and age history gets re-written all the time.<span> </span>In fact in war, whomever wins definitely gets to write the history of battles how they see fit.<span> </span>It does sound like they all enjoyed the museum particularly since it was free and on the way from Squaw to Auburn.</p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">The course here goes up and down with undulating hills.<span> </span>Sometimes we are close to the river and other times we are moderately high up.<span> </span>We are running parallel to the river and I recall that during the Memorial Day Weekend training run this section is very pretty although at various points there are sheer dropoffs alongside the trail.<span> </span>Luckily I am feeling pretty strong and am not overly worried about tripping.<span> </span>I try to describe the scenery to Iva, but I do not think I do it justice.</p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">As we get to one of the aid stations I am having significant eye issues.<span> </span>My eyes are watering and it is creating some issues in my vision.<span> </span>I have had similar issues before but this time I am prepared with eye drops.<span> </span>Unfortunately I am not prepared with how to use eye drops.<span> </span>At the aid station I ask if a volunteer can get them in my eyes.<span> </span>I feel like a cat because I am squirming away from getting drops in my eyes even though I know this will help!</p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">After attending to my eyes I get a few treats to eat and drank a little.<span> </span>My stomach is turning sour but I am sure I have gotten enough calories in me over the day to get to the finish without any worries.</p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">We continue moving along slowly but steadily.<span> </span>Iva has a Garmin and my goal is to keep ahead of 17 min/miles at a minimum.<span> </span>I would prefer to go faster but my legs may be a limiting factor.<span> </span>Iva gives me good news indicating that we are moving along at a modest clip of about 15 min/mile.<span> </span>This means I am slowly inching my way ahead of the DNF line.<span> </span>But I don’t want to make any mistakes.<span> </span>I pay attention to my footing and keep up a conversation with Iva.<span> </span>Most of the time we are alone but sporadically we pass a runner or two.<span> </span>I am feeling pretty good and am so happy that I am in a segment I have run before and know that relatively speaking is not too hard.</p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Pretty soon we see the lights of Rucky Chucky.<span> </span>I am super excited because it means I get to sit down for a few moments.<span> </span>And of course I get a raft trip.<span> </span>I tried really hard to convince my pacers/crew to go on a raft ride (my treat) on Saturday and yet no one took me up on this offer.<span> </span>I love rafting so I have been looking forward to this all day.<span> </span>In fact I have been looking forward to it since learning that it was a high water year and we would be going across on a raft.<span> </span>This is going to be so fun!!!</p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">As we arrive at the aid station I take a drink of ginger ale and a coke then move along.<span> </span>I know there is another aid station on the other side.<span> </span>And have I mentioned I am excited about the raft ride??!!</p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Leaving the aid station we are guided to a steep climb down to the river.<span> </span>It is lit up with luminaries and Christmas lights.<span> </span>It is beautiful and surreal.<span> </span>I take a moment to absorb it.<span> </span>Then I start my walk down this sheer cliff like path.<span> </span>But Western States takes such GREAT care of it’s runner I have no problem maneuvering down.<span> </span>As I step down a super sweet volunteer will take my hand and point to a place I should put my feet.<span> </span>They then hand me off to the next volunteer and upon confirmation many of these volunteers would give me a pat on the back, rubbed my shoulder or patted my head upon handoff wishing me luck and strength to finish the race.<span> </span>It was so wonderful.<span> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">All of the volunteers were so helpful, encouraging and so sweet.<span> </span>I wanted to savor the moment because it gave me such a warm feeling inside.<span> </span>Then all too soon I was being outfitted with a life jacket and handed off to the volunteers in the boat.<span> </span>I climbed in and sat down quickly followed by pacer Iva.</p></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-28504537190470036592011-10-12T17:38:00.000-07:002011-10-12T17:46:02.160-07:00Western States 100 Mile: Michigan Bluffs to Foresthill<p class="MsoNormal">I take off my hydration pack and give it to Tristan.<span> </span>I put on my super bright headlamp (*thanks to Jamie Donaldson and Meredith Terranova for this suggestion) and put on a few layers and tie some others to my waist.<span> </span>After refilling my bottle and munching a little bit it is time to get moving.<span> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I get ready to leave I hear a voice asking if anyone has a spare headlamp.<span> </span>In fact I had my beta headlamp on since Devils Thumb but have switched it out for my super strong headlamp.<span> </span>I yell that I have a spare headlamp. <span> </span>A volunteer comes over and takes it.<span> </span>She asks my number.<span> </span>I give it to her “271” but have no expectations of seeing it again.<span> </span>I have gotten used to giving away headlamps and clothing and never seeing them again.<span> </span>But oddly enough when I arrive home and unpack my bags, there is my headlamp with a small piece of paper and my bib number in my next drop bag.<span> </span>It is really cool to get it back but I wish the runner had also left his bib number on it so I could check on his status.<span> </span>I hope he finished!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I am super excited about heading out of this aid station because the faster I get through Michigan Bluffs, the sooner I will get to Bath Road where everyone can pace me for about a mile.<span> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Iva and I head off into the darkness.<span> </span>I know the course and describe it to Iva.<span> </span>We have a long up hill with a really sharp left hand turn we need to pay attention for.<span> </span>I fixate on this because I don’t want any bonus miles and I am pretty sure that the DNF line would pass me if I did end up off course.<span> </span>We pay particular attention and finally the turn occurs.<span> </span>We then start heading into Volcano Canyon.<span> </span>This decline is pretty steep but I am able to walk and jog slowly.<span> </span>I know we need to keep moving forward with purpose.<span> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Our conversation flows easily and covers many topics.<span> </span>I ask what happened about my SPOT rescue beacon.<span> </span>She indicates the race staff did not contact anyone, but Tristan was contacted by the SPOT personnel.<span> </span>When they ask him if I am okay he is unsure and thus they do send a rescue helicopter to help the injured safety patrol runner.<span> </span>Based on conversations at the aid station it became apparent to them that this rescue was needed and that it really helped the young lady as she was in bad shape and ill prepared for waiting for help.<span> </span>When I left my rescue beacon I vaguely thought about giving some clothing however, I realized that I could potentially need my layers if anything happened to me.<span> </span>And I assumed that they would have some more layers in their bags (this might have been a bad assumption but considering I had just given up my lifeline I was not ready to give up additional items that could be critical if I had to self rescue).<span> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As the jeep road turns into single track we hear water running.<span> </span>I warn Iva that we are about to cross a stream.<span> </span>My feet are already wet and I am not very stable on my feet so I will be simply walking across.<span> </span>But Iva prefers to go across via rock hopping.<span> </span>I offer to cross then come partway back to give her a hand on the upper side where she can rock hop.<span> </span>She accepts and is successful at keeping at least one foot dry.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">We then head up the single track and pretty soon we are on the Jeep Road.<span> </span>I know we only have a short bit and we get to Bath Road where we rejoin Bella, and Shane.<span> </span>And next thing I know there they are!<span> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">We walk up the hill (as any respectable back of the pack ultrarunner does).<span> </span>We chat about various topics and everyone is so nice and encouraging to me.<span> </span>I indicate that I want to change my shoes at Foresthill.<span> </span>I know I am behind the suggested 30 hour pace but I am closing in on 1 hour ahead of the absolute cutoff.<span> </span>I know shoe changes take 20-30 minutes but I justify that this will help my feet and me in general in the long run.<span> </span></p>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-31319599486706960382011-08-27T17:43:00.000-07:002011-08-27T17:51:24.781-07:00Western States 100 Mile: Devils Thumb to Michigan Bluffs<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-f9jpR2iNr_dEseSMlDmpy77gU_NHRMZP9LJFD3605CarV6Pw5wMPYxffiJq-OjW-4Fv4dS05mg9z9aSZEAWH4ef71CTkE0blCGsYzFgmhgwqfs86690VYTnjzjKKCZY3ZI2yxjsb2rM/s1600/P6252074.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-f9jpR2iNr_dEseSMlDmpy77gU_NHRMZP9LJFD3605CarV6Pw5wMPYxffiJq-OjW-4Fv4dS05mg9z9aSZEAWH4ef71CTkE0blCGsYzFgmhgwqfs86690VYTnjzjKKCZY3ZI2yxjsb2rM/s320/P6252074.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645702263232233442" /></a>So happy to be crossing the bridge over El Dorado Canyon. I had been on this bridge before when Tristan and I had hiked during the Memorial Day Weekend Training run (which I highly recommend to everyone...it gave a sneak peak of the course, I met lots of other runners and it is a beautiful course much of which I covered in the darkness).<div>
<br /></div><div>By this time I was starting to feel good about my race because I knew exactly what to expect for the remainder of the race. In my opinion knowledge is power. Especially when that knowledge allows you to know the course gets easier, not harder, as the miles increase.</div><div>
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<br /><p class="MsoNormal">As I get on the scale I am a little overweight.<span> </span>I believe I am about to get the talking to as well as possible sat out for a few minutes.<span> </span>But wait…I have my snake proof gaiters on.<span> </span>I know they weigh 2 lbs.<span> </span>I take them off and am back within specs.<span> </span>WAHOO!<span> </span>I ask the nice volunteers to put them in my drop bag since the sun is starting to get low on the horizon and I feel the rattlesnakes should be going to bed.<span> </span>I also grab my headlamp and put it on as well as a light shirt.<span> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The volunteers as usual are really great and are super nice and helpful.<span> </span>But I want to get away from my air horn stalker.<span> </span>I grab some soup, get my hydration systems filled up and head off.<span> </span>As I exit I hear the single horn alerting runners to less than 10 minutes to the absolute cutoff.<span> </span>Yikes!<span> </span>Time to put some pep in my step.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Running out of the aid station I run with a gentleman for a bit of time.<span> </span>He is good company and suggests that the next section is runnable and the switchbacks to El Dorado Canyon are not too steep.<span> </span>This is comforting.<span> </span>At some point he pulls ahead because even with not too steep downhills I struggle.<span> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The sun is starting to set slowly.<span> </span>But sporadically I end up in a place where there is still direct light.<span> </span>Although I have a long sleeve shirt on I realize that I should take it off so I don’t get overheated, sweat then get chilled.<span> </span>I am reminded of how many wardrobe changes I typically make in any race.<span> </span>I do spend a lot of time thermoregulating via wardrobe changes but I think this is sensible although it does waste a bit of time.<span> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I run I am getting a little worried.<span> </span>It is dusk and I am alone.<span> </span>This is when mountain lions eat.<span> </span>And they might like a moderately slow runner for dinner or a tasty snack.<span> </span>This is very alarming to me.<span> </span>But I have some defense but not all my defenses.<span> </span>I have pepper spray but I do not have my spot rescue beacon.<span> </span>Alas I have my super secret weapon: singing.<span> </span>I have done this before during other hikes.<span> </span>In fact Tristan and I were busting out with the Sponge Bob Square Pants theme song during a hike near Mt St Helens.<span> </span>And there we were a pair.<span> </span>Here I have to sing alone.<span> </span>I start with 99 bottles of bear on the wall.<span> </span>But I get a bit bored with this even with all the different versions I learned in girl scout and church camp (which in retrospect is kind of an odd place to learn this).<span> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I then change my song to something more motivational.<span> </span>I start singing “Go the Distance” by Micheal Bolton.<span> </span>I think about how I wish I had hair as nice as he does. <span> </span>I also wish I knew the words.<span> </span>But I make do and mumble various words I do know and make up words I don’t know.<span> </span>But I know I can go the distance!<span> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Starting to go down the switchbacks I am back to being content and happy.<span> </span>But not for long.<span> </span>As I jog I hear some rustling in the tree’s and bushes nearby.<span> </span>It is getting closer.<span> </span>I am very worried because that is when the majority of cougar attacks occur.<span> </span>I get out my pepper spray and unlock it for the second time that day.<span> </span>I am ready to start spraying and will ask questions later.<span> </span>Right before I let loose I realize it is another runner.<span> </span>I re-holster my pink pepper spray and tell the young lady she is lucky she did not get sprayed.<span> </span>I am not sure she appreciates how close she was to being the recipient of my hair trigger panic finger.<span> </span>In fact I was a little surprised that as she approached she did not at least mumble “passing”, “hello” or any other greeting.<span> </span>I always alert runners to my whereabouts because when you are in a zone it can be kind of alarming to have a runner next to you.<span> </span>And my strong fear of serial killers really makes this panicked feeling even worse!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span> </span>She moves ahead of me slowly since we are on the downhill which is my weakness.<span> </span>But she might have been spooked by my statement about cougars (or maybe I picked up the pace for some company).<span> </span>As we get closer to the river I was getting really excited.<span> </span>We could hear the water and I knew as we got close to the base of El Dorado Canyon I knew the remainder of the course from the WS100 memorial training run.<span> </span>We turn a bend and I realize we are very close to where Tristan and I had a yummy picnic lunch.<span> </span>I take a picture and tell my friend about our meal of bread, fruit and cheese.<span> </span>It is a really nice memory.<span> </span>Then we get to the bridge.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">On the bridge there are many volunteers.<span> </span>It is great to see people.<span> </span>This is my last aid station where I will be conceptually alone.<span> </span>It is after 8 already and that means when I get to Michigan Bluff I will be able to pick up my pacer Iva.<span> </span>The volunteers are super helpful and as usual attend to all my eating and hydration needs.<span> </span>I grab a few items, refill my bottle and very soon I am on my way.<span> </span>I want to get as far as I can in the light.<span> </span>I know there are a few segments that are a bit tricky and would prefer to get through them with as much light as possible.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Going up the mountain I pass my friend and wish her luck.<span> </span>Then I am moving swiftly power hiking.<span> </span>I am excited to be on trail which I am familiar with.<span> </span>I even jog a bit going up this hill.<span> </span>I am moving quickly because I know the DNF line is creeping up behind me.<span> </span>And I know each mile I move forward I have that much less distance alone.<span> </span>This makes me very excited.<span> </span>I know there are switchbacks then a segment we go down briefly, we cross a small stream then continue up for a bit on the single track.<span> </span>Then we get on a jeep road and pretty soon I will be at Michigan Bluffs.<span> </span>My excitement is building.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Pretty soon I run into folks indicating just a bit to the aid station, then I hear dogs barking, see some houses and make a sharp left turn.<span> </span>I am approaching Michigan Bluff.<span> </span>I am EXCITED.<span> </span>I get to the aid station, check in and immediately see Iva, Shane, Tristan and Bella.<span> </span>What a treat!<span> </span>Nearly my whole pacer/crew/family team is there.<span> </span></p></div></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-69078638565686934462011-08-11T19:05:00.000-07:002011-08-11T19:05:00.461-07:00Western States 100 Miler: Last Chance to Devils Thumb<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOc1uLI8YpYjVGL3wG04w08nJF6Q210slr1ljjsnEGK44ysgXbUSNZu9z2OV3R5zUmuKvAgkXEt6CPi_FSF7eSAJlMEvpJ0hVHWb0JwNVPdBiPhsO-c3Uh_sISxudwj02gef0b0BkCTLE/s1600/P6252065.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOc1uLI8YpYjVGL3wG04w08nJF6Q210slr1ljjsnEGK44ysgXbUSNZu9z2OV3R5zUmuKvAgkXEt6CPi_FSF7eSAJlMEvpJ0hVHWb0JwNVPdBiPhsO-c3Uh_sISxudwj02gef0b0BkCTLE/s320/P6252065.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639043572856511170" /></a>On Swinging Bridge on my way to Devils Thumb. <div>This bridge had a very alarming sign on it indicating maximum one horse or 6 humans. I was ready to start yelling at people if there started to be more than 4 others on this bridge with me...</div><div>
<br /></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">Apparently many runners will take a dip in this river to cool off on an access path right after crossing the river. As you can see by this time in the race I had put my moeben sleeves on and was alternately putting them on and rolling them down to stay a bit cooler.</div><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Last Chance AS a small disaster occurred.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Luckily it did not adversely affect me as much as it could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As I got to the aid station I was weighed in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>While being weighed in there was a lot of confusion as they told me to get on the scale while simultaneously telling me to take off my hydration pack and fanny pack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is where I learn my ensemble weighs 15 lbs as I get on the scale and it reads nearly 150 lbs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Yikes!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Then I get my items off nearly having to put them on the ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I think the look of horror on my face got a volunteer to take it (since I was the only person in this area I could get this kind of service).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>While standing there I ask for my drop bag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>After confirming that my real weight of ~135 is close to my original weight I can move forward to the aid station.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>At the aid station I eat, drink and be merry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Everyone is super helpful and nice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But a disaster occurs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am told that my drop bag is not there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Luckily I have not real goals for seeing my drop bag except maybe to resupply my M&M stash.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>So I say it is fine and continue munching.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I exit the aid station I see my drop bag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But by this time I don’t really care and simply plan to get to the next aid station where I have a drop bag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I do take a picture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Also I know I am now less than 20 minutes ahead of the DNF line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The DNF guy with the air horn is now stalking me!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I keep seeing him at all the aid stations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He is now my arch nemesis!!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The course continues to be fairly runnable. I am feeling pretty good and the scenery is very lovely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am having a great race except for the DNF line encroaching on my personal space!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I know that I have a lot of energy and am feeling strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But on the other hand I am nearly 1.5 hours behind the recommended 30 hour pace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am just about 30 minutes ahead of the absolute cutoff and these are not numbers that brings any confidence in my ability to finish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I vow to keep on moving until told or forced to do otherwise by race staff or my body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Leaving Last Chance we go down a slow gentle decline.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I jog along happily pondering my thoughts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I know I am getting closer and closer to the part of the course I am familiar with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I just need to climb up to Devils Thumb then head to El Dorado Canyon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But this is a lot easier said then done.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I get to the base of the first canyon I am excited to see swinging bridge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am alarmed by the sign on it that states “limited to one horse and rider of 6 runners”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Trust me if there were 6 runners near me I might have had to bust out the pepper spray to enforce this rule.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Alas there is only one other runner nearby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I ask if he will take my picture and he kindly does.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We both head up the sheer cliff that is Devils Thumb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am pretty excited because I am moving smartly and uphills are my strength.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This hill is really no worse than Maryland Heights near West Virginia where I have spent many hours, miles and verticle feet climbing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This makes me feel good because the final canyons I will climb, El Dorado and Volcano Canyon I have already seen during the WS100 memorial day training run.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I climb up I pass 5-10 runners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Some I pass very quickly and am worried about because we are all very close to the DNF line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Others I pass but remain close to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>At some point we get to a bit of clearing where you can see into the canyon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is a beautiful view but it is also very alarming to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We are very exposed and just a step or two to the left is a sheer cliff about 1000 feet deep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I stop abruptly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am paralyzed by fear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I really, really, really hate heights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am even more worried because at mile ~45 I am not very stable on my feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I give myself a pep talk saying I have to move forward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I cannot go back because the last aid station will be closed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And I need to finish WS100.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I cannot disappoint my friends, family, pacers, crew, pets, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I give myself a pep talk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My usual “you are strong, you can do this” does not cut it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have to harness my inner Puffi.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Puffi is our youngest cat who is not afraid of anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I tell myself she would not let this challenge stop her and I should not let it stop me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Finally I get my courage up and just do it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am so thrilled with this accomplishment but am worried I will have more of these sheer drops I need to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I have faced down this challenge so I savor my victory!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I climb I hear something I have heard before but the other times it has been after I leave the aid station.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This time I hear the Air Horn warning signal of three beeps and I am not at the aid station!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This means I am now less than 30 minutes away from the DNF line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I am getting excited as each time I see brief glimpses of what appears to be the top.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And pretty soon there are random folks who are clearly not runners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This means we have to be close to the top.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Yippee!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As I get to the top I am excited to see some horses. I even take a moment to pet one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I need a bit of animal loving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> </p></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-60570775995314798362011-08-10T18:37:00.000-07:002011-08-10T18:37:00.618-07:00Western States 100 Mile: Millers Defeat to Last Chance
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Muybv83wfYhBVThEtHYTA97v9U2_Jdz6dx7MGMpcFdsH5_Ait-v6g0VADznohjJi_v1iDJ2zQ5TdpEcuZZQ5AsQwBGEheY4ykj-R8XXKiaj2t-Enh_AlGZczym-KPI-IQ8OuAl_WxaA/s1600/P6252044.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Muybv83wfYhBVThEtHYTA97v9U2_Jdz6dx7MGMpcFdsH5_Ait-v6g0VADznohjJi_v1iDJ2zQ5TdpEcuZZQ5AsQwBGEheY4ykj-R8XXKiaj2t-Enh_AlGZczym-KPI-IQ8OuAl_WxaA/s320/P6252044.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639036475598396402" /></a>Along this segment there were several warning signs. Most were related to mining rights. I felt a little alarmed that there might be a person coming out with a shotgun...and my tiny bottle of pepper spray would likely not do much good.<div>
<br /></div><div>Luckily I moved quickly through this section and did not try my hand at mining in this segment!</div><div>
<br /></div><div>In fact I did try to read the various warning signs because I figured they could warn of hazardous animals, unspent munitions, nuclear (or other toxic) waste which I would need to be on the look out for!
<br /><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">I go through Millers Defeat pretty quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I know the DNF line is very close to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My friend Melanie H had sent me a tiny printout of the aid stations and 30 hour suggested pace as well as the absolute cutoff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am within 30 minutes of the cutoff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is quite disturbing, but I am hopeful I will be able to pick up the pace now that I do not have to worry about any more snow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Knowing the aid station cutoff is very soon, while at this aid station I ask if anyone is going home after volunteering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am not sure my question was well understood because I was just trying to alert my husband to my status.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>That I was running along and doing fine but my SPOT was elsewhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact I was really hoping my husband might have the sense to realize since I was moving but my SPOT wasn’t that he could give me his bulkier and older SPOT.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Unfortunately it sounded like the volunteer I spoke with was not going anywhere with internet or phone service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This bummed me out a bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I just hoped my family/crew had been informed of my status.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact not having my SPOT did suck a bit of energy from me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was worried about various disasters befalling me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And since I would not be able to help myself I imagined it could take hours (or maybe up to a day as in my husband’s case) before I got help if something tragic happened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Time for another self pep talk!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The next miles were spent trying to move quickly and efficiently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Here we were on a jeep road that was pretty nice in my opinion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I could move solidly forward without having to worry too much about my footing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And we were in the woods so it was not too hot when running with purpose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The one highlight of this section was the “Mining Claimed” area that indicated the land was claimed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I found this rather amusing and was curious what kind of stuff was being mined.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I also was curious where the mine was but clearly had no time to explore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-11038668192665798782011-08-09T18:22:00.000-07:002011-08-09T18:33:05.295-07:00Western States 100 Mile: Mosquito Ridge to Millers Defeat<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFBMV20Hidal2GOGpyCWT4ojSpFkPlUp2qGT9Ou46y44iwtmTGGJxLfO7FiU4vpc9LhG9w9U8Uo20UUGjFvWYdU6XFAXqEr8HycCu8zitIJPz5C4-DHzCpQScKWR45LdByKJo1XElEv0M/s1600/P6252012.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFBMV20Hidal2GOGpyCWT4ojSpFkPlUp2qGT9Ou46y44iwtmTGGJxLfO7FiU4vpc9LhG9w9U8Uo20UUGjFvWYdU6XFAXqEr8HycCu8zitIJPz5C4-DHzCpQScKWR45LdByKJo1XElEv0M/s320/P6252012.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639032962116174642" /></a>With one of my ultra-running hero's: Tim Twietmeyer.<div>
<br /></div><div>Tim is really nice and so encouraging to all. I met him first at the California International Marathon in December. Then I met him a second time at the WS100 mile lottery the next day (where I may or may not have made a spectacle of myself). Then I saw him at the WS100 training runs and throughout the race weekend.</div><div>
<br /></div><div>Although he has won the race numerous times, run it even more times he is really down to earth, friendly and a genuinely great person (as so many affiliated with the WS100 race are!)</div><div>
<br /></div><div>I actually saw Tim an additional time later on the course (about mile 96 but at that point I was being hunted down/chased by the DNF line)
<br /><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Very quickly I arrive at the next aid station.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact for a bit I feel like every hour or so I am arriving in aid stations which is good, but also means they kind of blend together in my mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The aid station volunteers take really great care of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I resupply my beverages and refill my bandana ice burritos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am feeling really good and my race continues to go very well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">This section we have a 4 mile out and back loop then we will be rejoining the original course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is exciting to me because I am vaguely familiar with the original course through reading and studying blogs and course descriptions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact Craig Thornley is definitely a WS100 icon and I tried very hard to memorize his descriptions of each section.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sadly this was of limited use until Millers Defeat!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Heading out of the aid station I am alone again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is okay until I run by a fairly new DEER CARCASS!!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Seriously, I have read others blogs, race reports and course information and no one mentions this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I seriously nearly end up walking (actually running back) to the aid station I just left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I give myself another pep talk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And by the time I realize it is a deer carcass I am pretty close to passing it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My contacts really do not work very well which is kind of a good thing when you are about to see something horrifying!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As I pass I actually have the sense to take a picture but it is from behind and I am moving pretty quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In my other hand I have my pepper spray out and unlocked!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am ready to take on any beast that might be about to supplement it’s deer meal with a person dessert!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I was not going down without a fight…or without seasoning myself:-)</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">This section was more fire road so I was able to run with a bit of speed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I ran with Antoinnette for a little bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>She was very festive with her rabbit ears and was moving along solidly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sadly as was the case throughout the day my pace did not match hers as I moved along.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">At the end of this loop the RD suggested we would travel the “roughest” section of the race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This actually is too kind a definition of what we ran through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was really glad for my snake proof gaiters as I scampered over tree’s and branches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I know the RD and the volunteers had to work really hard considering the issues with the course and they are to be commended!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I still struggled here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was extra cautious because I did not want to fall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Then the final section of this “rough section” was a snow slope which I nearly took a header.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Alas at the last second I was able to regain my balance as I slammed into the jeep road at the bottom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The jeep road return to Millers Defeat kept having small snow sections of a few hundred meters followed by dirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was glad to be getting to the end of the snow pack but found this almost harder than the original snow because at each of the section breaks you had to cautiously get on or off the snow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Or at least I should say I had to…others seem to run recklessly through the snow but I tend to be very hesitant and really did not want to mangle myself.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Heading into Millers Defeat I was very excited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was about to get back on the WS100 course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And reportedly there was no more snow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>WAHOO!!!</p></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-64332224554778540392011-07-24T17:24:00.000-07:002011-07-24T17:34:10.184-07:00Western States 100 Mile: Duncan Canyon to Mosquito Ridge<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Yt2CQayLNaykg1msqy1opdlZhCYz02DOf0ciro-sXywhxNOmHOYhi_1BrbTvTdOmT5MXisOISyxSlF2CyDSGyzhuJzOTqsvOf5YpOxl5CWNnoSaBcr_OpRV9WhBWtQBQjDOag4S_mO8/s1600/P6251904.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Yt2CQayLNaykg1msqy1opdlZhCYz02DOf0ciro-sXywhxNOmHOYhi_1BrbTvTdOmT5MXisOISyxSlF2CyDSGyzhuJzOTqsvOf5YpOxl5CWNnoSaBcr_OpRV9WhBWtQBQjDOag4S_mO8/s320/P6251904.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633080378376928402" /></a>Along the race course near the Lake we ran alongside for several miles. It was a very beautiful blue lake that had lovely snow capped mountains in the background. <div><br /></div><div>We never got too close to the edge of the lake although at several points we had to cross over (through) streams.</div><div><br /></div><div>The trail along the perimeter of the lake was very nice with very few roots or rocks so it was easy on the feet and there were not very many tripping hazards.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><p class="MsoNormal">Just a few minutes later and one final switchback up the hill I make it to the Duncan Canyon Aid Station.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The aid station is really active and lots of fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The volunteers take great care of me helping me fill all my hydration pack with ice water and my bottle with sports drink as well as filling my bandana with ice so I can wrap it around my neck to keep cool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Everyone is so cheerful and helpful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I loiter a bit, chat with the volunteers and again get scolded to get out of the aid station.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Jogging out of the aid station I am feeling great.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My WS100 experience is amazing so far.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is exceeding my expectations!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The current course continues its diversion on the “2011 snow route”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We go into Duncan Canyon then head up to Mosquito Ridge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As I am running into the canyon we have a small section on snow then abruptly get onto a road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am thrilled to see road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have had enough snow for many, many years to come and I actually do like running on road since it is fairly brainless (so far I have not fallen on road, trails I fall a lot!).</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I running down the hill, safety patrol catches up to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They are very nice and even take my picture as I run along.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We chat for a while.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Their job is to make sure runners are doing well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sadly I am doing well so after a bit they head off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I try to suggest that I am not coherent and that they kind of owe me an escort since I did give up my SPOT rescue beacon which was supposed to be my chaperone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Apparently this does not convince them to stick with me. Nor does my exciting conversation and company.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As they head off, they remind me that the DNF line is approaching but suggest that I am moving solidly and just need to keep running strong.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">In the canyon we run along a river for a bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I love rivers and the sound of running water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am in my happy place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The views continue to be very pretty and I am just having so much fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I try not to stress about my lack of SPOT and try to remind myself that statistically I am unlikely to experience death and disaster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Hiking up the hill I am bummed when we get off the road onto a fireroad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>At least it is not single track.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As I run along I am all alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Along the road you could see about ½ mile ahead and behind at various points and there are no runners in my field of vision.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But as I run on the dirt road I am surprised to catch up to my friend Don.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Not surprisingly he passed me at the Aid Station.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We catch up a bit and jog for a bit together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Again, my pace is slightly faster so we ultimately separate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A little bit later I catch up to my friend Jose SG.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He really struggled in the snow (in fact at one point I asked him what shoes he was wearing…so I could NEVER buy them!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He is starting to struggle in the heat but is moving forward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He has a lot of experience in 100’s so I am optimistic for him.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I continue running I am back to being alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is actually how the rest of my day seems to progress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sporadically I see runners in the aid stations but overall I am alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I did not know if headphones are allowed so I did not carry any.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But regardless I would not have put them on because I want to make sure I can hear the rattlesnake, bear, cougar, marmot, lizard or whatever other animal might be about to attack me!</p></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-90994509631183381212011-07-20T17:22:00.000-07:002011-07-20T17:29:47.415-07:00Western States 100 Mile: Poppy Aid Station to Duncan Canyon<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_W1UZRCUWKT6kNNBIxq5fzZhkSU2Jkdv7gkJKDjG-_yFSUX8Rxzm06uljoWXpHP6TztvCE3zCvTUdy4dCMgEE7eEbdz1cYp3eUorwUZLFgWt41RANivPnEjNnVntxmWawi8hQrs3WO3Y/s1600/P6251888.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_W1UZRCUWKT6kNNBIxq5fzZhkSU2Jkdv7gkJKDjG-_yFSUX8Rxzm06uljoWXpHP6TztvCE3zCvTUdy4dCMgEE7eEbdz1cYp3eUorwUZLFgWt41RANivPnEjNnVntxmWawi8hQrs3WO3Y/s320/P6251888.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631595027926108322" /></a>With my personal assistant: Vicki who took GREAT care of me during my visit to the Poppy Aid Station. <div><br /></div><div>She was so sweet and helpful. She made sure to help me with my sock change (which is very labor intensive and kind of smelly) and attended to my every need.</div><div><br /></div><div>After the race I was so lucky to run into Vicky again at the post race buffet where again she took excellent care of me. </div><div><br /></div><div>She was an AMAZING volunteer and so kind!</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja-Op5loAaCzNZvIL9fVtSfDBrzeF8ilflfALCECqU-yvn_Vhd8oUHD5s2eQoQs2lfeJQO4RO1sevhyphenhyphenYBIg_t_SgZdK2s8fXSvWOnI9CdWaChPNqdbNhQyJkRvqMzN2W8Drcdk4dR4zBE/s1600/P6251904.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja-Op5loAaCzNZvIL9fVtSfDBrzeF8ilflfALCECqU-yvn_Vhd8oUHD5s2eQoQs2lfeJQO4RO1sevhyphenhyphenYBIg_t_SgZdK2s8fXSvWOnI9CdWaChPNqdbNhQyJkRvqMzN2W8Drcdk4dR4zBE/s320/P6251904.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631595025245527506" /></a>After leaving the Poppy Aid Station we quickly ran along a beautiful mountain lake for about 5-7 miles. </div><div><br /></div><div>The course was really lovely and the views spectacular. Around each bend you could see the blue/green lake flanked by the snowy mountains. </div><div><br /></div><div>The views were just breathtaking and it was such a treat to be able to run alongside this picture perfect lake on such a beautiful day.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /><p class="MsoNormal">Pretty soon we arrive at the Poppy Aid station where our first drop bag is located.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Here I make my first mistake of the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But luckily it is a fairly small one and easily rectified.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Because the race director during the pre-race briefing suggested we change our socks, I do so. In retrospect I would not have done this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But alas having a really good friend, Ethel (who was a GREAT pacer at the ICY-8 hour in 2010 helping me get my first 2<sup>nd</sup> place female), who ended up with massive feet issues from her attempt at WS100, I do the conservative thing and change my shoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">My personal assistant, Vicki (who is WONDERFUL) gets my bag, helps me in getting off my nasty wet socks and putting on a new pair as well as a new pair of gaiters (you might as well change everything is my philosophy).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Changing my socks also involves cleaning my feet rather thoroughly with wet wipes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>By the time I have wiped them off you can eat off my feet (not that I ever would, but I am a bit fastidious about my feet).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>After getting on my socks and gaiters, I also put on my pair of Zensah calf sleeves so I can put on my snake proof gaiters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>When putting on one of my calf sleeves somehow it is upside down…or at least looks that way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact when I take it off, put it back on it then is really upside down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Then I have to take it off one last time to put it on rightside up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>So for those of you keeping count this sleeve has now been on and off 3 times!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Finally it is on right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I then hook up my snake proof gaiters (these I do know how to put on although it was only during a practice run I realize that there is definitely a right and left foot).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>After attending to my feet situation it is time to put on some sunscreen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This takes a bit of time because I know I need to apply at least a shot glass worths of sunscreen and I really do not want to miss any place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Although I had applied sunscreen before I started I do really try to take care of my dermatological needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I also try to take care of my oral hygiene but as you will learn later from mid-afternoon until the finish I was fighting the DNF line rather than gingivitis!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Grabbing a grilled cheese sandwich, some brownies, a payday bar as well as resupplying both my fanny pack bottle and my hydration pack I am ready to leave the aid station.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact the volunteers are starting to really encourage me to leave as they (and I) know the DNF line is starting to creep up on me!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Alas attending to needs can be an important race strategy and I am sure that I will be able to make up time with my freshly clean/dry feet as well as with the confidence my snake proof gaiters will give me and finally with a full belly of food and drink!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The next section of course is by far the prettiest in my opinion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The course follows along a beautiful lake and it is a fairly runnable section.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Don and I continue to run together chatting about ultra’s. the ultra community and life in general.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He is good company and I am glad to have a person to run along with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Even when we are running in silence it is nice to have some company.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We sporadically stop to appreciate the views and to take pictures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The lake is a beautiful green with snow capped mountains behind it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We are in a lush pine forest with lots of wildflowers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We sometimes are a few hundred feet from the lakeshore and other times we climb a bit higher.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We have a few stream crossings including one very soon after we got out of the aid station, aargh!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Alas I am glad I made sure my feet were in good condition and it was nice to chat with Vicki while she was taking excellent care of me!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">After running along the lake, Don and I start separating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My pace is a bit too brisk for him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is sad because he is such great company but we both know that it is also important to run your own race particularly in the 50 and 100 mile distance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am super pleased to have spent so many miles with him and know the early miles will be some of my favorite because of his company.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Running along we head up a fairly steep hill.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The sun is getting bright and warm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And there seems to be residual burn from I would guess the late 90’s or early 2000’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The tree’s do not provide as much shade but luckily it is not too hot and is not predicted to get super hot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I would guess at the hottest it might have been 90 degree’s but there does seem to be a pleasant breeze now and again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We really lucked out with delightful weather!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Reaching the top of this long hill climb I see my friend Keith Blom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He took some super pictures of my lottery selection (when I basically blew a gasket and forgot to photodocument the whole experience).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But luckily Keith snapped pictures as I realized my name had popped up on the screen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It was an amazing experience!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We subsequently ran into each other at the Across the Years and then he was one of the “Media”/official photographers of WS100.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It was great to see him and briefly say hello!</p></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-21413629902026230162011-07-20T16:58:00.000-07:002011-07-20T17:06:53.271-07:00Western States 100 Miler: Talbot to Poppy Aid Station<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuprWz19VMjdKzZrAJDrQfe16KGCqZuf5hsCmRF35j0HFETfmrx_ZkRbHcRfxr4rGNsCo3GB-anvfipSAynqXis0jS8YUQyHhqIsze-CM5YYw6IYDXQSkXiE-B98_y13ObIoI-FrjyRxs/s1600/P6251857.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuprWz19VMjdKzZrAJDrQfe16KGCqZuf5hsCmRF35j0HFETfmrx_ZkRbHcRfxr4rGNsCo3GB-anvfipSAynqXis0jS8YUQyHhqIsze-CM5YYw6IYDXQSkXiE-B98_y13ObIoI-FrjyRxs/s320/P6251857.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631589404291633778" /></a>Picture: Me along the course between the Talbot Aid Station and Poppy Aid Station. <div><br /></div><div>Notice that there are plenty of rocks, not very dense pine tree's and a dirt path. This is how the majority of this section looked. It was very beautiful but very different than the first ~15 miles which was snow covered.</div><div><br /></div><div>This section had both up and downhills but no significant climbs or descents. Additionally, the footing was pretty good including a large portion of jeep road. My impression of the jeep roads is that there were bits of rocks but none seemed to be ankle twisters. And while the course might have been a bit dusty I believe my gaiters did the trick of keeping this out of my shoes and off my feet.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">This is the first time I have seen people who might have contact with the outside world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I ask where the Ham Radio operators are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am pointed to the exit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I go over and chat with them and confirm that my husband has been alerted that I am not sending out an SOS but have given my SPOT rescue beacon to others needing it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">I am assured my family has been contacted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">This is not the case but I do not find this out until Michigan Bluff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Luckily my friends and family can see that I am progressing along the course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This actually distresses me when I learn that a message was never conveyed to Tristan or my crew.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am sure glad they did not follow the helicopter to the hospital it went to because at that point I would have been a bit stranded and very puzzled as to where my people disappeared to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But then again from Tristan’s fall last year on Mt Theilsen they should have known not to immediately head to the hospital where one is medivacced but wait until the final destination is determined (when Tristan fell and was ultimately medivacced, I was told he was going to Portland Health Center.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Luckily I hunkered down and waited and in fact he was only transported to St Charles Medical Center in Bend a few hundred miles away, I think I would have been horrified if I arrived at a hospital after a cross country flight only to learn I had another 3-5 hour drive to get to him).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I digress.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Don and I head out of the aid station together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We are pretty well matched for pace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And he is great company keeping a very easy conversation going.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I learn his training has been really good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He broke 24 hours for a 100 miles at an event in the winter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am still trying to do this, although I think without a bad knee issue at Umstead I might have broken it in April.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Alas that was a learning experience when I learned my standard training of being conservative and not pushing to hard worked for me at least.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>For my first 6 years of ultra-running I never had an issue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Starting last fall when I started pushing really hard I have gotten shin splints and a bad knee tendonitis that took over 2 months to recover from including 1 month of intense physical therapy.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Running along I am thrilled that my knee is not acting up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am feeling strong, enjoying the views and having a great time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is so beautiful in the high country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>How lucky are the runners to be able to do something we love so much on such a lovely day!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We could not ask for more perfect weather.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is a beautiful blue sky and the scenery is spectacular!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Since I may be the better trail runner of the two of us, I end up being the pace setter for Don and I.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is fine with me because then I can go faster or slower as the terrain changes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Don is agreeable to this strategy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He is good company and lots of fun to run with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As we run along we both appreciate the beautiful views we are being given.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Although I know I will be skirting the DNF line (based on other races and the fact that the snow has really slowed me down), I still take the time to stop occasionally to look around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We are so lucky to be so fortunate to run this race on such a beautiful day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>There is no other place I would rather be!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I will think this over and over throughout the race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-86515097276636466942011-07-15T18:20:00.000-07:002011-07-15T18:20:01.476-07:00Western States 100 Mile Race Report: Interrupted for Vermont 100 milerI apologize that I am leaving you my readers hanging...but my kind of lame excuse is that I am getting prepared for my 4th Vermont 100 miler. <div><br /></div><div>This is the second stage of my Grand Slam 100 miler attempt. The 4 hundred milers in the Grand Slam include:</div><div><br /></div><div>Western States 100 miler, California</div><div>Vermont 100 miler, Vermont</div><div>Leadville 100 miler, Colorado</div><div>Wasatch 100 miler, Utah (CONDITIONAL assuming I finish the prior 3)</div><div><br /></div><div>If you want to wish me some luck feel free to text me at:</div><div><br /></div><div> (804) 310-8745</div><div><br /></div><div>I will have my cell phone on me. Service will be sketchy but I know on a few ridges it actually is pretty good:-)</div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-69349786287775727462011-07-14T18:08:00.000-07:002011-07-14T18:08:00.596-07:00Western States 100 mile: Escarpment to Talbot Aid Station<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwdkph0_kcCwF1SJBtyEEJpFnDDkbnyTHJi7MMlxOiFWL-7dE9o4R-pQTCGA9vMBrJ0KkR_u99DMc4IX0e7DD90oMMujTbDfnLc3MaN_uM0ewRuvTpSo35G_8RKpQsXNBroq3hy5yRvAs/s1600/P6251752.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwdkph0_kcCwF1SJBtyEEJpFnDDkbnyTHJi7MMlxOiFWL-7dE9o4R-pQTCGA9vMBrJ0KkR_u99DMc4IX0e7DD90oMMujTbDfnLc3MaN_uM0ewRuvTpSo35G_8RKpQsXNBroq3hy5yRvAs/s320/P6251752.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629009547265110354" /></a>Running up Emigrant Pass I found a super nice lady who was willing to run alongside me snapping many pictures.<div><br /></div><div>The course was really beautiful but snow covered for the vast majority of the first 15 miles or so. </div><div><br /></div><div>It was challenging to run on and I know many runners including myself struggled to stay on their feet. </div><div><br /></div><div>But the course was very lovely and we were so lucky to have perfect weather including a very sunny blue sky, and delightful temperatures.</div><div><br /></div><div>What you will notice here is my full outfit including gloves, pants and of course sparkely my fanny pack, my flower hat as well as lots of random stuff.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi2a_PiV7dSYAeibnlloLFE7ztuXTI1syJkSEbFEkqSihMesN9OxwSuwRulIMYNCc5P_U5kG8hqACDYwadWOGQydhlujyzQhn1JNwJ2fh79NCz3cqbXx4r_UZwf9QN5JJnemwa6cAB8eQ/s1600/P6251827.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi2a_PiV7dSYAeibnlloLFE7ztuXTI1syJkSEbFEkqSihMesN9OxwSuwRulIMYNCc5P_U5kG8hqACDYwadWOGQydhlujyzQhn1JNwJ2fh79NCz3cqbXx4r_UZwf9QN5JJnemwa6cAB8eQ/s320/P6251827.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629009544631882962" /></a>Here is one of the many river crossings we had to do. </div><div><br /></div><div>This picture includes my friend Don who ran many of the first sections with me. He was excellent company and a seasoned ultramarathoner with many 100 miler completions.</div><div><br /></div><div>This river was one of the larger ones and in fact had a rope to assist runners in the crossing. </div><div><br /></div><div>As you can see there is snow right along the side of the stream. I would guess the temperature of the water was just above freezing. By the end of the river crossing my feet and lower legs (from thigh below) were numb from the cold.</div><div><br /></div><div>As you can see by this time I had taken off my long sleeve shirt and jacket so the day was warming up. So I did thaw out pretty quickly.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Climbing Escarpment (continued)</div><div><br />As we continue on, we are on a snow slope that is not too steep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Others seem out of breath but I am happy that alttitude or hills are not really impacting me greatly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I continuing moving at a modest clip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Along the slope I am able to get a very nice young lady to get my picture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>She even gets a few action shots which is nice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The final climb to Emigrant Pass is a bit treacherous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I make it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am thrilled to be at the top of the pass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I will only be going downhill from here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But alas going downhills is my weakness. I go really slowly, get nervous and would actually go many, many, many extra miles to avoid downhill.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Alas the WS100 course is a net downhill.<br /> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Near Watson Monument at the top of the pass I find another spectator to take my picture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I know I may be wasting valuable time but I rationalize that this is giving me a break, giving me some joy and I need to savor and document my experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is really beautiful with snow covered mountains all around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">After Emigrant Pass</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The first few hundred meters down the mountain I am excited to see no snow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We are on a dirt/rock trail with stubby bushes and wildflowers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is very pretty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Unfortunately after about a half mile or so we get onto the snow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We will not get off the snow for nearly 10 miles. (ten miserable miles in my world!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am glad I invested in a pair of trail shoes when I visited my friend Jamie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My new pink trail shoes (which I have only run in 2 times for less than 25 miles!) are very comfortable and grip pretty well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It does seem that others are sliding quite a bit more than I.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I also am taking this section very, very slowly because I really do not want to fall!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact every so often we get to a fairly steep area in which it is obvious others have fallen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I sit down and slide on my but.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Finally my overdressing pays of!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My pants protect my butt from the snow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Others are mentioning the burn and snow up their shorts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I am having a blast each time I sit down and slide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Next time I think I might pack a bag but in all honesty the pants work out very well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My gloves also were a wise decision although with the bitten finger and the fact that they are not even remotely waterproof make them a little soggy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But the weather is very pleasant and it is not too bad the few moments they are wet and cold.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I run with a pack of runners during this segment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My friends from other races: Jose SG and Wilson L are really close to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Chris (aka the guy who will be writing a book about a serial killer ultrarunner!) who I met at the WS100 memorial day training weekend is in this pack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Shannon FG from moeben is in this same group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And I get to meet several new runners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Don from Atlanta ends up being closest to my pace and we end up running very closely for the first ~30 miles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He is really good company and has done a bunch of ultra’s.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Pretty soon disaster occurs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Running along in the snow, slipping and sliding I am really anxious about falling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I see others falling and I sort of stumble a bunch of times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As I round a bend there is a group of three runners with red shirts on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>One is down obviously in a lot of pain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The other two are looking concerned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is safety patrol.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They do not seem to have any rescue equipment and I do not believe a cell phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I realize I may be the only one who has any way to get help quick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And people mock me for my carrying of excessive stuff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I can say that I will not starve or be too thirsty for several days or even be very cold or wet if I ever go off course in an ultra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>That 15 lbs I carry includes lots of useful stuff!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">After determining that this lady’s ankle is in really bad shape and there is no way she is getting off the snow slope without assistance, I set off my SPOT rescue beacon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Now I am in a quandary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>If I keep going the pinging will follow me (and will actually probably make it so they do not send help since clearly I would be mobile). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I now have to give up my lifeline.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am really hesistant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I really do not want to die on the course and I know there will be more snow slopes, lots of sheer cliffs and of course potentially rattlesnakes, cougars, bears and other animals ready to make me a happy meal!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I hand off my rescue beacon, wish the lady luck and ask them to get this back to me ASAP.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am optimistic “SPOT” will catch up to me mid-afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact they take down my number wrong and never alert my family that I am okay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But the SPOT rescue beacon folks do alert my family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This actually creates some confusion because when the SPOT folks call my husband (who is on my emergency call list) he is unsure about my whereabouts but suggests they should rescue me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He should have stated unequivocally, “GO GET MY WIFE SHE’S IN TROUBLE!!!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He has been reprimanded. <!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--> <!--[endif]--></p> <p class="MsoNormal">They apparently do send a helicopter to rescue the lady.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact I think I heard it as we were running along a while later.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I kept my fingers crossed she was okay and hoped that this gesture of goodwill gets me some good karma (both in not dying but also in finishing the race:-).</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">This episode takes about 10 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Finally I bid farewell to the safety patrol and am back to running.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This time I am running scared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>One should never run scared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But it makes me really cautious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I also realize my friends who are following my SPOT tracking will have no idea what has happened to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>All they will notice is that I was moving along, then I abruptly stopped and sent out an “SOS”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact in my gmail account after the race I get pinged with a bunch of SOS please send help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am not sure why I put my gmail on my contact list.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>If I need help I don’t think I will be able to access gmail to see that I need help, duh!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Running along, I catch up to my friend Don.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He and I seem to have a very similar pace (particularly on the snow).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He is good company and helps makes the miles flow by.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We chat about ultra’s, life in general and how tough the snow is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sporadically we have to stop and look very hard for the yellow flags and ribbons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This actually becomes very challenging and we end up forming a cluster of about 8 runners as we all struggle to find the course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Jose, Wilson, Brian, Shannon, Don and several others end up in a pack for a while.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We sort of randomly have runners lead or follow looking for the yellow trail markings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They are hard to spot since the glare of the snow and the yellow ribbons and flags seem to blend together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This gets to be very tedious and slow going.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Unfortunately knowing how easy it is to get off course I refuse to follow footprints but only go where I can see yellow ribbons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I really do not want bonus miles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I already did that at the training run going straight up a hill I had to promptly go down when I realized I had missed my turn!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As we ran along there sporadically was chatter but a lot of energy was spent paying close attention to the course markings as well as our footings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I think most of us fell several times, stumbled and slipped around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And we had to be cautious of tree wells where you could see the snow was up to 20 feet deep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And occasionally you could hear a river of water under the snow so you had to be careful to not step in the wrong place and fall into tunnel of water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It was very disconcerting.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The course slowly descends but the snow does not seem to go away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>During the pre-race briefing it was suggested with the recent heat wave the snow might be patchy in sections.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have not seen terra firma for many miles except for small few feet patches (which I get really excited about only to realize the brief respite is just that…very brief!).</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As the trail descends our pack seems to disband and I am back to running with Don.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We get to a stream crossing and see my friend Chris finish crossing it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is actually a bit deep (thigh high) and moderately long (about 50 –75 feet).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And the water is REALLY cold (although it does take me a few moments to gather my courage to get in to start crossing).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Before spring 2011 I had never purposely gotten my feet wet crossing a stream or river.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But upon realizing I was going to do WS100 with multiple stream crossings I started my stream crossing ways back in March while a trail sweep for the Seneca Greenway 50km race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was pretty proud of myself because I have really matured as a runner and have refused to let perceived challenges stop me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Partway through the stream I get my camera and take a few pictures of Don and I.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is a bit tricky as we have a rope we are holding onto.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I in fact am using a death grip on it holding on for dear life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This means during each picture I am standing thigh deep in freezing cold water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It takes my breath away!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But alas it also chills my knees and ankles which are a bit bothersome from the snow running (actually each time I fell on the snow I also rationalized that I was pre-icing from any injury I might get!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Finally I get to the other side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I can barely feel my feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The water was really cold!!!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Jogging along my feet and legs seem to thaw out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I wonder how many more stream crossings we will do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A few minutes later we have another stream but this one is only about 10 feet wide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But getting to the stream is a bit more treacherous with a very steep slope going into it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am glad in my hydration pack I have a pair of pants and a jacket I can change into if my stream crossing goes horribly awry!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I do successfully get into the stream and cross it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am feeling pretty happy that so far no obstacle has been insurmountable.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I know from my Garmin we have traveled well over 10 miles and should be getting close to the first aid station.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am excited just to have a moment or two off the snow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And of course I am looking forward to some treats.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Because I have a 20 oz bottle and a 100 oz hydration pack I am very well set for beverages and I do have treats in my pockets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But aid stations have so much energy.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Soon we are entering the Talbot Aid Station, WAHOO!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As with all the aid stations, the volunteers take great care of us making sure we are well hydrated and fed and ensure all our needs are met.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am getting excited because I know we have only a few more miles of snow to run along.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was definitely over snow-running after about 1 step!</p></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-18381194408122938342011-07-13T16:00:00.000-07:002011-07-13T16:06:58.414-07:00Western States 100 mile: Start to Escarpment<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuIZxP4UalZQ4-zJrh1UysQMKKDHJ9BQekezo2fSqEyd2Q9WdKWgxPbS2JoCvJ-IPnOk6m9ej8Gl69YoNXcK1p4ELCi_eBOZXH6iK_biUlPrg9gfR7bzOLSj3hv8ogd9d4DuXRyopdVvw/s1600/P6251720.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuIZxP4UalZQ4-zJrh1UysQMKKDHJ9BQekezo2fSqEyd2Q9WdKWgxPbS2JoCvJ-IPnOk6m9ej8Gl69YoNXcK1p4ELCi_eBOZXH6iK_biUlPrg9gfR7bzOLSj3hv8ogd9d4DuXRyopdVvw/s320/P6251720.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628976373669846226" /></a>Tristan and I during the race just above "High Camp", the top of the Gondola (taken with my camera that traveled the full 100 miles). <div><br /></div><div>Tristan hiked up starting at about 3:30 a.m. and cheered on the front runners all the way to the Back of the Pack. In face he suggested that he climbed up and over Escarpment and on the "civilian side" there was a fence which gave him a splinter...which may or may not still be in his hand nearly 2 weeks later! </div><div><br /></div><div>You can see runners in the background continuing up to Escarpment (Also in the background)<br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Once the race started I wandered to and over the start line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I knew it was an uphill start from the Thursday hike up the mountain for the very touching memorial service led by race committee members: Mo L. and Tony.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Also being an experience ultramarathoner I knew I needed to conserve energy by walking up the hill.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was near many friends including: Bill, Jeff (just briefly), Elaine, Don, Shannon, Jose, Wilson, and many others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It was going to be a grueling uphill climb for the first 4 miles!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Luckily I eat hills for breakfast.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I climbed the first hill I had the pleasure of meeting April who was doing her first WS100 in preparation for UTMB (an ultra around Mont Blanc that is on my “to do” list).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We chatted and shared several very nice miles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Unfortunately once we got to the top my incompetence at downhill running ensured I dropped back considerably.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>While running with April, my friend Elaine caught up and passed me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I would not see her for the remainder of the race and am so thrilled she finished in a little over 27 hours!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">At Escarpment I refilled my hydration pack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This took a lot more time then it should have as I identified a lady with enough water in her pitcher.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As I opened my bladder she was dumping her water in other bottles and promptly left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I then had to find someone else who had a filled pitcher.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This was a bit of a bummer because this also involved doubling back a bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I told myself it was not a big deal but in fact when I was concerned about finishing 29:59:59 every second can start to count.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Heading out of Escarpment AS as I put my bladder back in my hydration pack my little string of bad luck continued as I bit through my smartwool gloves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Seriously I was using my teeth to pull of my glove and next thing I know the gloves are still on my hand and a bit of glove is in my mouth…pfft!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Continuing to climb I know we will start hitting patches of snow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is not thrilling to me but at least I know this section.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And I know I should be seeing Tristan pretty soon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As we get above High Camp, I do see Tristan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He is standing in a place I would not have picked but at least I see him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I stop give him a hug and chat briefly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I get a picture of us with my camera and then one with his iPhone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I tell him to post it to facebook so friends can see my progress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is still not posted ~2 weeks later!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">All to soon I realize I need to keep going forward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The next segment up Escarpment is a doozy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is really steep single track some rocky section some covered in snow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am not in my happy place as it is the stuff of my nightmares.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Little do I realize that this is only the beginning of challenging sections.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Going up is not so bad but every so often out of the corner of my eye I can see how precarious this trail is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I keep moving forward with purpose and hope it ends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>At the top of escarpment I am thrilled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I hope the toughest part of the race is over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I like to live in delusionalworld…</p></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-31427691127537338632011-07-12T07:39:00.000-07:002011-07-12T13:25:36.938-07:00Western States 100 Miler: Before the Start<div><p class="MsoNormal">My 2011 Western States 100 Miler Experience…Living through it was all I was hoping for!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Tammy Massie<span> </span>Bib #217</p><p class="MsoNormal">29:42:12</p></div><div><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoAoIe3MCSMrVouipjOIUJ3P1UWtFq0sI63V3j-4fnY7s1HxNX_5PozMk7Sg2CZkiA-eSGpDs5qhnugHu1IoferMxiIFCar8CTm5GT8frp20upggDmuVeE3MFvlbsr7UnTsaJvQZ9yU9w/s1600/P6251660.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoAoIe3MCSMrVouipjOIUJ3P1UWtFq0sI63V3j-4fnY7s1HxNX_5PozMk7Sg2CZkiA-eSGpDs5qhnugHu1IoferMxiIFCar8CTm5GT8frp20upggDmuVeE3MFvlbsr7UnTsaJvQZ9yU9w/s320/P6251660.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628564173015731314" /></a><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">"Team Tammy" (Except for Tristan who had climbed up to Escarpment Pass so he could cheer me on as I got to mile ~3 of the race and nearly 8,000 feet in Elevation)</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Western States 100 miler, “The Big Dance”, “States”, “WS100” or “Western” (as I call it) is a race like no other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is an amazing experience for new ultra-runners as well as seasoned veterans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Although WS100 was my 11<sup>th</sup> hundred miler start it might have been the race I was least sure about finishing to date (later this summer I am running the Grand Slam which includes Vermont 100, Leadville 100 and I have a conditional acceptance to Wasatch 100).</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">While standing on the start line I realized that I was completely out of my league.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I would label myself as a marginally incompetent ultramarathoner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And that is being kind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Lining up next to other runners I was dismayed to observe I probably had the most stuff on my person (~15 lbs of equipment including random stuff, treats and beverages in my hydration pack and in my fanny pack “sparkeley” and even a SPOT Rescue Beacon).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was all set if I went off trail and ended up in Mexico with some peso’s or Canadian money if I headed north.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Of course I had my requisite spare ponches (yes that is plural), lip balms (again plural in fact 3 lip balms-one huckleberry flavored, one pink tinted and the lip balm that could also be used on hotspots in a pinch).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I had lots of treats including several bags of different foods: smokehouse almonds, almond M&M’s, marathon bars, nutter butters and even some dates (because one should always have some fruit each day!).</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">My defense system consists of my SPOT rescue beacon (to be carried the entire race), a pink pepper spray (to be carried the entire race), and in my drop bags at various points: pink snake proof gaiters (for both Saturday and Sunday when we will be in the sun) and a hydration pack with a pink superhero “T” cape for the last section that has been a location in which a runner had been attacked many years ago and cougars have been spotted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I felt I was ready for any encounter I might have.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And if I got too lost I was going to be well fed and hydrated for a bit of time and would have stuff to barter with if I was with others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I also had little med packs including various over the counter medications for pain and upset stomach as well toilet paper and single use cottenelle wet wipes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In addition to having overpacked with spare layers even in my hydration pack ziplocked in case I took a spill in the water crossings or if I ended up getting wet in the snow, I noticed I was the only runner with pants on, several layers including thermal shirts/windbreaker and I was stressing about running in snow, getting my feet wet (and dirty), cougar attacks and rattlesnakes to name a few of my numerous fears. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I took a deep breath and try to give myself a pep talk in my mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This was to be the first of many pep talks throughout the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>By the end I was actually verbalizing my pep talk which included “harness your inner puffi” alluding to our youngest but toughest cat who knows no fear and seems to live life with reckless abandon (which I guess you can do when you have 9 lives!)</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">But let me start at the very beginning of the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>At 3:00 a.m. the first of my alarms went off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I was already up having been really anxious about missing the start.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Pretty soon I was getting wake up calls from my friends on the East coast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Pacer Dan gave a quick call and wished me luck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Then a few minutes later my frequent hill running partner Tammy B gave me a second wake up call.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We talked briefly and she indicated all our hill training should help me finish WS100.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>While I agreed that our hill training certainly would help, I had never experience a race quite like WS100 so I was nervous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I got ready Tristan got up and headed up the mountain to Escarpment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He was going to hike up in the dark to about 3 miles up the mountain to cheer me (and other runners) on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>After Tristan left, Pacer Shane got up, then my dad got up shortly thereafter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As I completed getting dressed and ready pictures were taken and discussions were had.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Crewette/Pacer Bella then got up and we all chatted briefly and plans for the day were reconfirmed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was feeling pretty good and the weather seemed like it was going to be delightful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Just a bit cool and sunny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was really excited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Once I was ready it was time to head to check in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This involved a short elevator trip then about a 100 meter walk from our suite in the Squaw Valley Lodge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>After about 30 seconds I was in the midst of many other runners ready to get my bib, chip and final weigh in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My weight continued to be 133.8.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is a little high for me but I might have been enjoying a few too many ice cream sandwiches, banana splits and caramel apples throughout the spring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Or it could be that I was well hydrated….</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Wandering around the check in area I briefly hang out with several other grand slammers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They notice I am eating my breakfast of champions “Pink Snowballs”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is also commented on that my outfit (pink) and my breakfast food match.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am to keep a monochromatic theme!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Also I love snowballs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They probably are going to be banned sometime in my life but the gooey goodness of mashmallow and coconut on a crème filled cupcake makes me happy and tastes so good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">After getting my bib and chip it was time to put them on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was all set.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Time to chat, take a final bathroom break and make sure I was ready for what was going to be the toughest day of my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I headed outside I was pleasantly surprised to see Pacer Iva.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I now had a pretty complete entourage (less Tristan who was on the mountain).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My Dad, my pacers: Iva and Shane and my crew/pacer: Bella.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am pretty happy that I had the sense to get a group shot of all of us while waiting for the countdown clock to get to “0”. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></p> <span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US; mso-bidi-language:AR-SA">I was super excited but very nervous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I knew this was going to be the biggest challenge in my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I knew I would face treacherous terrain, a course I was very unfamiliar with, lots of snow, stream crossings, single track and my biggest fear: getting my feet dirty!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Seriously!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I really do not belong in the ultrarunning crowd and probably bring shame to all the other ultrarunners! </span>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-77719478843674997562011-02-28T16:27:00.001-08:002011-02-28T16:44:15.050-08:00Rocky Raccoon 50 miler 2011: Lap 1<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7h_20lDdN_FVIQvHIskST3ZQxpPexzXEwvTnkVmbtqN4rTX-lxrbVvaSLVJwhDoxthpWFCyoMV7SEp8LvUCeiw6IHnBq6EiArv_567LhtY7M1uBHtgZ-epHuqUzSDG0pf2UO0WGCyKMU/s1600/P2040081.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7h_20lDdN_FVIQvHIskST3ZQxpPexzXEwvTnkVmbtqN4rTX-lxrbVvaSLVJwhDoxthpWFCyoMV7SEp8LvUCeiw6IHnBq6EiArv_567LhtY7M1uBHtgZ-epHuqUzSDG0pf2UO0WGCyKMU/s320/P2040081.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578902727695666306" /></a>Heading off from the first aid station..trying to look not too cold!<div><br /></div><div>There are really awesome volunteers all along the course at three aid stations as well as the start/finish area. There is the first aid station (Nature Center) second/third aid station (DamNation Aid Station) and fourth aid station (Park Road) all well stocked with lots of random food and beverages!</div><div><br /></div><div>Throughout the day the food was refreshed and starting mid afternoon they added sandwiches, soup and lots of other yummy treats.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf5z1P4iQ4R7bTJXd50O0eVahWvfz2E8OSqxrOCE9065uZV3ycWleTL5y9sYSVlNG_H8Zaw_Y2kWs0bpZzHQwa8k-aF01sL9hyphenhyphenSHG4uQHdBNB-WH5vcVi9A6oolEkNGWV0xY8HgAF8SG0/s1600/P2040114.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf5z1P4iQ4R7bTJXd50O0eVahWvfz2E8OSqxrOCE9065uZV3ycWleTL5y9sYSVlNG_H8Zaw_Y2kWs0bpZzHQwa8k-aF01sL9hyphenhyphenSHG4uQHdBNB-WH5vcVi9A6oolEkNGWV0xY8HgAF8SG0/s320/P2040114.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578902716389249010" /></a>This is the Dam that both 100 and 50 milers run along for several hundred feet. You can see some frost on the shrubs/bushes along the lake. This was really beautiful. </div><div><br /></div><div>Unfortunately there also was ice/frost on the boardwalks making it very slippery and dangerous for the runners, many of whom did take spills including one young lady who broke her foot/leg.</div><div><br /></div><div>The lake also was very beautiful through the morning with mist hovering over it.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikD9mh_xf6B5ki-X8dYOXEcFaEUWfsoMbZHbo5nxK25oI2TUDNt0bEWH1i9eRdJPu7NPFzrSkahltW2wqxp8bosIx7KcbHD_QluskObCAKbAFXRXqitI70wiGhToc064-UxkjLjsqO7fs/s1600/P2040132.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikD9mh_xf6B5ki-X8dYOXEcFaEUWfsoMbZHbo5nxK25oI2TUDNt0bEWH1i9eRdJPu7NPFzrSkahltW2wqxp8bosIx7KcbHD_QluskObCAKbAFXRXqitI70wiGhToc064-UxkjLjsqO7fs/s320/P2040132.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578902712973164610" /></a>Here I am running along the Lake near the start/finish (which is a different finger or even area than the dam we run along).</div><div><br /></div><div>This section of the lake is the section I invariable fall down on. There are trees that have root balls (?) that stick up far away from the tree ready to trip up any runner.</div><div><br /></div><div>The entire day was a beautiful day with a picture perfect blue sky. And over the course of the day, the temperature did climb to the 50's, which is pretty nice for running. I would have liked 70's but at least 50's is nice with a few layers on!</div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQu0cr38RRzPEk_U1chDtdzcP9Nk8ecNnG0BvdcztXMSaFnO9Zco4u9B7H_mF1XTwnYLpkjljVO4ZRc_0LNm9-b1wGsmpxOy7pbGMhf9qO4FlS00doZJtl3hycFLXS1I2DOicnPscbC0s/s1600/P2040136.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQu0cr38RRzPEk_U1chDtdzcP9Nk8ecNnG0BvdcztXMSaFnO9Zco4u9B7H_mF1XTwnYLpkjljVO4ZRc_0LNm9-b1wGsmpxOy7pbGMhf9qO4FlS00doZJtl3hycFLXS1I2DOicnPscbC0s/s320/P2040136.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578902714741349746" /></a>Here I am with Kim Sargeants mom. Kim's mom is a mainstay at this race and I have seen her every year (and of course I have seen Kim each year as well).</div><div><br /></div><div>Kim's mom is so sweet and encouraging...my mom had met her and they had hung out for quite some time during my first Rocky Raccoon 50 miler. </div><div><br /></div><div>It is so cool the Kim's mom is so encouraging and supportive of Kim. It reminds me of my mom who I do miss terribly, particularly during this race since this was the last time I saw & interacted with my mom.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b>The Race: Lap 1</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Pretty soon there was an announcement that the race was starting within 5 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Yikes, socializing sure does make time fly!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I started as far back as I could then realized this might not help in my goal of 9:30.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>So I moved forward a bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As I moved forward I heard my name “Tammy”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It was Tammy (the other one, not my split personality).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We chatted for just a moment then gun went off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And that is when I saw Don Lister’s wife (her name escapes me now as it did then…and yet I have spent hours with her!)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I got a picture then started moving forward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>At that time I mentioned to my friend Tammy I need to get a pair of handwarmers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>She had a spare pair and gave me hers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>How sweet!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I will need to add handwarmers to my packing list because it was nice to have the first few hours when it was really cold.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I realized I needed to move forward to get into the pace I wanted to run so I scampered pretty quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I knew the first few hundred meters the course was wide and had no hazards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Once I got onto the trail I had to be responsible and pass with care.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I continued to be pretty far back (easily in the 75<sup>th</sup> percentile).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I know that I will fall in behind slower runners and just coast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But that is not going to get a quick time although it will get a finish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Today I had goals!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Running along the sun started coming up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was being very cautious about roots and to run within my ability.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The first boardwalk was super icy and I realized I could easily run alongside and get to the same place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Thus I chose alternate routes around boardwalks when I could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sadly there were many boardwalks that were over streams, marshy area’s or over area’s of thick forest/shrubbery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>When I did get forced to cross boardwalks, I crouched down, spread my hands out and waddled very slowly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I did not fall!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And that is all that is important.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I ran along I was passing runners who might have gone off to quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is easy to do with all the energy and excitement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact I was a little distressed about my speed but the runners were so bunched up that I wanted to find some clear space.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I know that falling on this course is a fairly common occurrence so I figured I needed to get into a good sized gap where I would have 5-10 feet ahead of me and 5-10 feet behind me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is easy for runners to take out other runners when to crowded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And if you are the faller you can easily get a kick in the face if you are tailgaiting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Soon I was running past the first aid station. I love the aid stations at Rocky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They have such enthusiasm and energy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I needed to keep moving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A quick cup of heed and soda and I was off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I did not grab any food as I had just finished a biscotti about 30 minutes before the race and I knew the next aid station was in just a few miles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Heading out I was excited to recall that the next sections had fewer roots to trip me up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And some switchbacks which I like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This section I expected to see the front runners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact the front runners had passed by the time we got here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They were all haulin!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But the runners we saw were a mixture of super speedy runners as well as some early starters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Regardless they were 15 or so miles into their race and were all looking strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Approaching the DamNation Aid Station I was thrilled to see my friend Mike Potter from Across the Years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>After a quick hug, I headed to the aid station to grab a cup of heed and some soda.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was feeling really good and I wanted to stay that way with sufficient beverage and munchies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>After just a few minutes, I headed back onto the course continuing to run 10-11 min/miles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This was a pace I found was challenging but manageable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was feeling great and was happy.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The section from DamNation to DamNation is a pretty quick 2-3 mile segment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The majority of this segment is on very runnable jeep road followed by a bit of single track and even a wide earthen dam.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was running along with a group of other runners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They were a mix of experienced ultra-marathoners as well as new ultra runners. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The conversation was flowing and the pace comfortable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact it was too comfortable, so I moved on ahead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Although this section did have a few fits and starts with moving ahead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>There was one long bridge where I lost all the time I gained and then a long visit at the Damnation Aid Station had me back behind my friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But alas they were running a steady 12 min/mile pace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I realized this was not the pace I was looking for considering I tend to loiter a lot at aid stations and am not the most efficient self crewer (even with lots of stuff in my fanny pack!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was a bit bummed to move forward from this group of runners since it meant I was alone having to set my own pace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sometimes I feel like the horses at VT100 where it is a lot easier to fall in behind slower runners and just enjoy life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But then I realize that I have a whole bunch of friends nudging me along in spirit so I pick up the pace when I find my pace slowing.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Along the dam, the 50 milers rejoin the 100 milers who are about 14 miles in their race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The 100 milers had a 1 hour start on us so we are all running a moderately similar pace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But the 100 milers are also fairly spread out by this time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>While I can see a bunch of 100 milers well ahead and when I glance back there are other 100 milers but there seems to be a lull of runners. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">In just a bit, my DamNation Aid station visit is pretty quick the second time around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I refill my bottle drink a bit more and eat more then continue on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I know half the battle of ultra’s from my perspective is keeping watered and fed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>After a quick thanks I head off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The next segment I am not overly fond of but I don’t despise like the rooty section near the start/finish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This section is a significant amount of jeep road (which I like) but also has several fairly long hills (which I do not like).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But it goes pretty quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is where I ultimately lose my friends and actually remain pretty well alone for 15-20 miles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I do chat with a variety of runners but some are too fast and some are too slow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I feel like goldilocks because there is no one who is “just right”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And I know I need to run my own race since this is an ultra and I really want to finish in 9:30.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I run along it is warming up nicely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But that just means I am starting to be comfortable in my two pairs of pants, and 6 tops and even pair of pink moeben sleeves as well as thick hat and gloves (yes I know I’m pathetic!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Seeing other runners on the course with singlets and shorts is shocking, I won’t even consider taking off my layers down to my skirt and tank until nearly 70 degrees (and I have not even done any heat training which changes this threshold to about 80 degrees!).</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Running along I am feeling strong and happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But my knee is a bit tender and my ankle is sort of throwing a fit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My knee is a chronic issue and I know I just have to run through it, but my ankle has been getting more painful since JFK50 and my shin splints as well as after my Boston Qualifying time at Arizona.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This bums me out a bit but both problems are manageable so far by just ignoring them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I try to be extra cautious about where I put my feet so I land solidly each step but I am moving to quickly to pay too much attention and my contacts really are only about 80-90% effective.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This means everything is a bit blurry/shadowy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I really should have picked my parents better because this issue is caused by a severe astigmatism, which both my parents have/had.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My old strategy is to follow other runners and see where they place there feet and plant my feet exactly where they do, but alas I am running stag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Oh well, so far I am moving pretty effortlessly and I am happy.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Hearing lots of noise and seeing some folks in the distance I realize I am approaching the final aid station before the start/finish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This year they are Jimmy Buffett themed which is cool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They all have Hawaiian lei’s so it is like I am back with my people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They are all so nice and it is great to get a few hugs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I am a girl with a mission so after a quick bottle refill and some food and drinks, I head off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">It’s back to my least favorite part of the course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The part where I always trip and fall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I love the views of the lake (not that I see them, but I get to see them after when I look at my pictures) but alas I am not able to appreciate these views as I am too busy try to detect a difference between shadows and root balls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The boardwalks are still a bit icy so I run alongside each of the boardwalks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Earlier in the race I would “crabby-across” with my arms out, and feet apart going very slowly but here it is simply easier to avoid the boardwalks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>One place I get a bit caught up in a vine but am able to dislodge myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Since this area is less than 3 miles from the start/finish, the trail is getting crowded with runners heading back on the course for their second lap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am delighted to see friends who are running both races.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is starting to be a beautiful day with bright sunshine, rising temps and the course (other than the boardwalks) are super fast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This year unlike last I do not have to scamper hundred of feet to keep my feet neat, tidy and dry!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And since there was only a light dusting of snow, I do not expect the course to become muddy and sloppy.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I am excited when I veer away from the lake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>So excited I almost take a wrong turn (or I should say go straight when I should take a correct turn).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is a sharp turn and once I re-right myself I head into the final stretch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We get close to the street and I know I should be getting to the start/finish within about 10 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am really excited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I will be setting a PR for my lap time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And I am feeling really strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Maybe too strong.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">In my mind I make a checklist of what I might need to do at the aid station.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I need to eat and drink and refill my bottle but I also need to make some wardrobe adjustments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have 2 pairs of pants but am thinking I can live with just one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have 5 upper body layers but think it I can take off one layer and I can untie one of my layers from my waist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I also know I need to get my visor and my sunglasses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is really bright out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I head into the aid station I am excited to see my first lap is under 3 hours!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I know a sub 9 hour 50 miler is unrealistic but I am really pleased with this time and feel it bodes well for my goal of sub 9:30.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A few quick treats including some soda, M&M’s, pretzels and a handful of cookies I am happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I see my friend Shannon Farar-Griefer who is running the 100 miler.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have met her several times and love her moeben sleeves!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact my favorite pair is a pair of daisy themed arm warmers (and matching skirt) that I won at the Western States 100 miler lottery this past December.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But since this is not a “big race” I am not wearing these (like my silver sparkeley fanny pack certain other items only show up for 100 milers).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We chat briefly but then I have to self-crew and deal getting stuff in and out of my drop bag. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US; mso-bidi-language:AR-SA">As I am debating what to do I actually decide I may not be the ideal decision maker.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am standing next to a gentleman who I ask, “should I take off my pants?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am not sure this was an appropriate ice breaker but I was a little worried that I would get cold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>After a brief discussion we decide my pants are coming off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He was very nice and helped steady me while I did this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Then I take off my upper layer, untie my layer around my waist and take out my sunglasses and visor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Now my flower-inesss is complete.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is time to start lap 2!</span></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-60123206916895699952011-02-22T16:51:00.000-08:002011-02-22T16:57:39.875-08:00Rocky Raccoon 50 miler 2011: Before the race<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXcUXshtrysoJ83qDBo-wR-zQ7X_yXSxtF1-eOMUNfe4pYkGcmcB1pFlPMeDWbSPC4csyLQxZwVpW_RKeO72fD2deWd6CKPqjCpP7xkJw_YkY_3_ajeW0AsB5mVSvmAH7w__Y9vHrzILI/s1600/P2040072.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXcUXshtrysoJ83qDBo-wR-zQ7X_yXSxtF1-eOMUNfe4pYkGcmcB1pFlPMeDWbSPC4csyLQxZwVpW_RKeO72fD2deWd6CKPqjCpP7xkJw_YkY_3_ajeW0AsB5mVSvmAH7w__Y9vHrzILI/s320/P2040072.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576681851985194754" /></a>With my friends & ultramarathoners: Maryann and Deborah--a mini-reunion from Across the Years. <div><br /></div><div>Deborah, like I was running the 50 miler while our friend Maryann was volunteering at the aid station.</div><div><br /></div><div>I was lucky enough to see both Deborah and Maryann along the course several times. This time our weather ultimately was a lot better than Across they Years (although I believe both Deborah and Maryann were second day starters so did not have to deal with the EPIC Phoenix weather).</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>BEFORE the Race </b></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">The weekend of Feb 5, 2011 I ran the Rocky Raccoon 50 miler in Huntsville Texas north of Houston Texas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It was my third time running this race and as usual was a great deal of fun!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have developed so many friendships over the past years with the volunteers, runners and do enjoy running the trails in Huntsville State Park.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The last time I interacted with my mom was at this race my first time in 2009.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have a feeling I will be returning to this race for many years because during the race I feel a strong connection with her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My laps tend to be very emotional since I know my mom would be thrilled about how greatly I have improved in running since she saw me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But at the same time it is sad she is not here to share these great moments with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I know she would be so proud and excited.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Recently it seems like getting to races has been harder than the race itself because of awful weather.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>At Across the Years, my departure city near Washington DC was the problem but this time the race site: Houston was the issue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My Friday morning flight was cancelled Thursday afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Ugh!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But being aware of this issue I was quickly able to get an evening flight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And then I even upgraded to an mid-morning flight so I only arrived 5 hours after my original arrival time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">After picking up my rental car I headed up to Huntsville.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Because the roads were icy I took my time and luckily my friend Tammy had agreed to pick up my packet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>She even graciously dropped this off at the hotel room (which she would be using Saturday night).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Oddly enough while we were chatting we saw our friend Peter from Virginia as well who was planning his first attempt at the Rocky Raccoon 100 miler.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>At some point our conversation brought up essential equipment and it came up that he had left his gaiters at home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It was his lucky day as I had a spare pair of gaiters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Granted they were pink leopard print, but they were gaiters!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Since Tammy had to eat dinner and Peter needed to shop for items (including Velcro for his new pink gaiters), they both headed off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I made use of this by getting ready for bed and going to sleep early.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I got up about 5 a.m., but it felt like 6 a.m. (oh yeah it was for me, yippee Central Time Zone).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I put in my contacts, got dressed and ensured my fanny pack was properly supplied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was bundled up in 7 layers on top, 3 on the bottom with hat, glove and neck gaiter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It was bitterly cold!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I grudgingly headed to my rental car and drove to the race start.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My race does not start until 7 a.m. but I want to see the start of the 100 mile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I end up with a moderately bad parking spot, which is a bumer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But alas I have time to walk to the start and my legs will be okay after the finish is my personal pep talk.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I see the runners congregating and chat with a few folks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Then I head out on the course so I can see the runners as they cross the first street (about 200 meters into the race).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Once the race starts, I cheer for folks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>“Wahoo”, “Way to go!” and “Looking Strong” are cheers I use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I consider only 99.99 miles to go but that is just taunting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As the runners go by I see my friend Peter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sadly he did not make the early start.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I also see and wave to several other friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is dark so it is kind of hard to spot folks but I feel my civic duty of cheering is complete.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>After the final runners pass by, I go to the race start to check in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I see a few friends and chat briefly but I need to go to my car to drop off a few layers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And I want to use the real restroom for one last potty break in a real bathroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Oh, the simple pleasures.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-52779385704937494142011-02-07T18:04:00.000-08:002011-02-07T18:26:46.441-08:00A Quick Summary of My Rocky Raccoon 50 miler<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJY3XUkd16iLPIPLM1pLPIxkHW2pG8_lQVcxxhJomomtC_VqXLYyjBO-HJc5La2ZmiijCXnHXU4gcyZo0_rZfwthyYSYQxz6VL3fB45awIG2vPTvNxWTsZT19nNDSOjL50L9vVAYRZkOY/s1600/P2040075.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJY3XUkd16iLPIPLM1pLPIxkHW2pG8_lQVcxxhJomomtC_VqXLYyjBO-HJc5La2ZmiijCXnHXU4gcyZo0_rZfwthyYSYQxz6VL3fB45awIG2vPTvNxWTsZT19nNDSOjL50L9vVAYRZkOY/s320/P2040075.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571139182624043234" /></a>Here I am before the start of Rocky Raccoon 50 miler in Huntsville Texas. This is a super well organized 50 and 100 miler about 60 miles north of Houston, TX in Huntsville State Park.<div><div><br />This past weekend I ran my third Rocky Raccoon 50 miler. It was great fun and a huge success for me. Although this was after an auspicious start in which the second time in 3 trips that my flight was cancelled. Luckily I did make it to Houston only a few hours after my original flight time. <div><br /></div><div>A few highlights of my race include:</div><div><br /></div><div>1) I finished the race in a new 50 miler PR time of 9:30!! This was 20 minutes faster than my previous 50 miler (Rocky Raccoon 50 last year)</div><div><br /></div><div>2) My camera DNF-ed twice on the course. But luckily I carry multiple batteries (and memory sticks) just in case I go nuts taking pictures during a race. I think my camera's DNF was caused by the cold since the battery needed replacing twice.</div><div><br /></div><div>3) I have a mystery injury on my right hand. I hit my photographing hand on something about mile 20 in the race but I don't remember what. I definitely remember some incident and being really surprised that a hand injury occurred during the race. But I cannot remember what it was, Yikes! </div><div><br /></div><div>Even worse photography hand is the same hand and movement that is involved in taking off caps off bottles. Volunteering overnight I did alot of this. I was in pain but tried to be tough!</div><div><br /></div><div><div>Because it was still swollen and painful today (3 days after the race) I went to an orthopedist. It is just bruised.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>4) I should not eavesdrop! I was at an aid station refueling and two young ladies were talking about a race. They mentioned something along the lines of "only seen a mountain lion 2 or 3 times". My jaw dropped and apparently the look of horror on my face was priceless. I was ready to rip off my bib and hand it in (if only my right hand was working!).</div><div><br /></div><div>Luckily upon making eye contact they realized I thought they were talking about Rocky Raccoon. Quickly they said there were no mountain lions on the course. Then they joked that they needed to correct that statement as they had heard there was a cougar relocation program at Huntsville State Park. They had released a few cougars to make the runners go faster. It cracked me up!</div><div><br /></div><div>I will write more of my experience.</div></div></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-72559748156913476302011-01-31T15:59:00.000-08:002011-01-31T16:58:11.921-08:00A Brief Recap of my Cloud Snapple Half Marathon<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhltWeRdoS_vZoWW5HQOto48hDFsoAZ8AlbjOxG5oKNlbmrHGfZDw62kz-axPgHxTm5KZnNdybofsfyjgPjdIfNTN3ebLjBbtvCOLVo1pL2EmDh8yK9KjIoforwQiojoMTbZGp5RRKBrb8/s1600/P1280023.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhltWeRdoS_vZoWW5HQOto48hDFsoAZ8AlbjOxG5oKNlbmrHGfZDw62kz-axPgHxTm5KZnNdybofsfyjgPjdIfNTN3ebLjBbtvCOLVo1pL2EmDh8yK9KjIoforwQiojoMTbZGp5RRKBrb8/s320/P1280023.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568515398828480242" /></a>Running along the snow covered C&O Canal towpath going downriver along the Cloud Snapple Half Marathon, 2011.<div><br /></div><div>This is the second year this race has involved snow...last year the race started out super cold (teens as I recall), then significant snow accumulated as the day progressed. Unfortunately the weather in 2010 was predicted to be a light dusting to 1-2". By the time the 2010 storm finished there was nearly 6 inches of snow!</div><div><br /></div><div>Although plagued with snow, this race is very well organized, very cute and located within about 10 miles of my home. </div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_LenkFnBmyDDjkdRU29MDiQ1tWH6-QbduU3ELPf_3MPEJ_Y8mhivGodMJsKSlvO4ZMDSWIPRNScqio3PKijLIUQuwWpvoXgqq9GvijdhbBeez3QuUV_WJISYpyFT3VMaRoYSfczrSeOc/s1600/P1290038.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_LenkFnBmyDDjkdRU29MDiQ1tWH6-QbduU3ELPf_3MPEJ_Y8mhivGodMJsKSlvO4ZMDSWIPRNScqio3PKijLIUQuwWpvoXgqq9GvijdhbBeez3QuUV_WJISYpyFT3VMaRoYSfczrSeOc/s320/P1290038.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568515396988735762" /></a>Being awarded my finishers medal. </div><div><br /></div><div>I love events in which you get a finishers medal, even if I have only run for a few hours!!</div><div><br /></div><div>The volunteers were super at this event at all the aid stations as well as the start/registration as well as the finish line. </div><div><br /></div><div>I thought it was really cool that they placed the medal on each finisher.</div><div><br /></div><div>In this picture notice my new glasses..I am not sure I like them as they transition to sunglasses even without much (any!) sunlight. This created a moderate issue under the bridges.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge_BLTproOnGfisgrBPiZ4L9D9B5RyLCk_BFFgzjB3co4KLIGweAmFX4M5C4GjuliHdOEykmgk5DvpYavM8Kql2X2YSCj6wxTIelTsn_CyfHNchntpbV25fqAr8cN1084PmxyLZ590Qss/s1600/P1290051.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge_BLTproOnGfisgrBPiZ4L9D9B5RyLCk_BFFgzjB3co4KLIGweAmFX4M5C4GjuliHdOEykmgk5DvpYavM8Kql2X2YSCj6wxTIelTsn_CyfHNchntpbV25fqAr8cN1084PmxyLZ590Qss/s320/P1290051.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568515393265951282" /></a>Here is my friend Rosy H who I met last year at this event.</div><div><br /></div><div>We have kept up with each other and I was thrilled to be able to run with her for a bit. </div><div><br /></div><div>This was her second half marathon, her first being last years Cloud Snapple Half. One day this race has to not involve significant snow, right? </div><div><br /></div><div>She is really enthusiastic, has been improving as a runner and is even getting ready for her first marathon this coming March.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am so proud of her and I know she will do GREAT!!!</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7FbcdB2z6Y0lfLXgSJQoYuB6k4mD2mmLVUTWU0Q6uhz_5nS0LizUb7DussB_Ba8ZAcx5a066yZNzSIdagMjSayur4Z-UAG49IFL9yth5cL6y1-fwJhuWAQv1huSRMKzDKDij7nWKq2es/s1600/P1290056.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7FbcdB2z6Y0lfLXgSJQoYuB6k4mD2mmLVUTWU0Q6uhz_5nS0LizUb7DussB_Ba8ZAcx5a066yZNzSIdagMjSayur4Z-UAG49IFL9yth5cL6y1-fwJhuWAQv1huSRMKzDKDij7nWKq2es/s320/P1290056.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568515392140685874" /></a>Here is my new friend Liz S who I met alog the course. </div><div><br /></div><div>Liz was great company to help me build more miles as I tried to get to run >15 miles for the day (I ultimately ran about 17 miles by retracing my steps from the finish line to find runners/friends).</div><div><br /></div><div>Liz has run other marathons but she suggested this was one of the toughest (which I strongly agree!).</div><div><br /></div><div>She is thinking of running a 50 mile ultra and I know she has the determination and strength to do this. Perhaps we will share the course at an upcoming JFK50 miler:-)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhef5mFNIIm8_lvnMhhFBYO2kCK3wJBLhuXKW_9NNYrdOkF9fCwXo4nsexHr8mApJjua3sHVC15BR5WoeX-PKyiQ2w8msEW5dO8IvYCMcWwAyf1b8Pkt8T1fumEPkgoz7PU8AJ2cJ1ayaA/s1600/P1280015.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhef5mFNIIm8_lvnMhhFBYO2kCK3wJBLhuXKW_9NNYrdOkF9fCwXo4nsexHr8mApJjua3sHVC15BR5WoeX-PKyiQ2w8msEW5dO8IvYCMcWwAyf1b8Pkt8T1fumEPkgoz7PU8AJ2cJ1ayaA/s320/P1280015.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568515381158245490" /></a>My friend Laurie drove up from Philly to participate in this race. Several years ago Laurie ran 100+ events in a year with nearly all of these marathon or greater distances.</div><div><br /></div><div>This year to raise $$ for Ovarian Cancer, Laurie is running predominantly half marathons.</div><div><br /></div><div>It was great to see Laurie and to catch up...sadly recently I have missed Laurie at events, but she has seen my husband and even stolen a few hugs and kisses!! </div><div><br /></div><div><br /><br /></div><div><b>CLOUD SNAPPLE HALF MARATHON</b></div><div><br /></div><div>This past weekend I ran a very snowy but very fun Cloud Snapple Half Marathon. I ran the inaugural half last year and let's just say in my world I am going to refer to this race as the race that must involve snow. Last year snow occurred during the event with ultimately those of us who did not leave until ~4 hours after the start digging our cars out of about 5-6 inches of snow. The drive home was interesting and I considered myself lucky that my entire drive involved me facing in the direction I was supposed to. This was more a matter of luck and 4 wheel drive then any skill in winter driving that I might have (although my dad did teach my sister and I to drive in parking lots and since my birthday is in winter quite a few of my lessons involved ice/snow...with a stick shift!). <div><br /></div><div>The Cloud Snapple Half Marathon starts at the Carderock Recreation Area. The course is an out and back course that goes downstream along the Potomac River on the C&O Canal towpath towards the Chain Bridge/DC. After 6.55 miles the runners turn around and head back to the finish line. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was supposed to try for a 1:55 time. I am not sure my legs could make this time even on a perfect weather day. But with 5-6 inches of snow that was partially melted with divets of footprints, crusty snow mixed with fluffy snow made for difficult footing. Last year under better conditions I finished in 2:22 and less then 2 inches of snow had fallen by the time I finished. This year I was very pleased with my time of ~2:18. And I even had a negative split with my first half in 1:10 and the uphill return was in 1:18. Some of this was because I had figured out where the good footing was and partly because I did want to push myself. </div><div><br /></div><div>Throughout the race my mantra each time I wanted to give up, slow down or leisurely walk was "this could be the first 20 miles of Western States....I NEED TO TOUGHEN UP". This kept me going although quite a few times I felt like Bambi and my legs were going every direction except forward.</div><div><br /></div><div>Getting to the race I knew I had a few friends running. My friend Laurie from many, many marathons including the Disney Marathon, B&A Trail, George Washington Birthday, Bob Potts and other events was running this half marathon. And my friend Rosy who I met last year at this event was running it for the second time as her second marathon. Tristan drove me to the race, stayed for a bit then headed off to Difficult Run in VA for a hike. He could not make it to the starting line because of significant ice. I almost did not but decided to walk very slowly stooped over to ensure I did not fall.<br /><div><br /></div><div>After getting to the start, after just a few moments, the star spangled banner played. Then it was time to start. I ran pretty hard both directions taking only a few pictures. Most of my attention was spent trying to focus on not falling. As with every event there were a variety of paces and limited guidance on where to line up. My first 1-2 miles was spent trying to pass runners which was quite challenging since there was very limited decent surface to run on. And in some area's there was no good surface to run on. I really feel bad for the front runners because clearly they were trail blazing at some points. I grabbed sports drink at each aid station and profusely thanked the volunteers. They were so awesome!! </div><div><br /></div><div>At the halfway point there were a few tough spectators with DUNKIN DONUTS, YUM! It was great. I took a chocolate frosted chocolate donut and munched my way for a few miles. It was so tasty and what a nice unexpected treat. </div><div><br /></div><div>Heading back to the start I simply kept repeating to myself, "this could be WS100!" and kept trying to run as fast as I could. I wasn't exactly out of breath but I definitely was pushing hard. Pretty soon I was under the I-495 Bridge. This was good because it meant less than 1 mile to the finish. But it was bad because I recently got new glasses that transition to sunglasses. They do not change back very quickly so I had to choose between seeing clearly or seeing at all. I sort of pulled my glasses down and pretended I was wearing spectacles. It was not very satisfactory but luckily the bridge is short.</div><div><br /></div><div>The finish line was slight off the C&O Canal so it was only when we were pretty close did it register that the race was nearly over. I was thrilled when I saw my time was under 2:20 since I thought I had slowed down since the half and thus had figured my time would be close to 2:30!</div><div><br /></div><div>Once I finished I headed back out on the course to go find my friends and pace them to the finish. After about 1.5 miles I came upon my friend Rosy who had taken a fall along the course. She was running strong and seemed in good spirits. We chatted about life, running and how different but no better this years race was...hopefully 2012 will be better (I can't imagine how it could be much worse). I learned Rosy is running her first marathon, the Virginia Creeper. I know she will do great and have lots of fun. With all this catching up, pretty soon we arrived at the finish.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>I then headed out on the course for more runners. I went out about 1 mile and my ankle was getting bothersome. I decided at that point I would run with the next runner if they wanted company. I was REALLY lucky to meet Liz S who was running her first Cloud Snapple Half. I was able to tell her this race should be easier! Liz was good company and an experienced marathoner. She is considering running a 50 mile ultra so I was able to give her some pointers and thoughts to consider. Hopefully Liz and I will both be at the JFK50 miler or other ultra in the future! Our time together just flew by and soon enough we were at the finish where she had a friend waiting.</div><div><br /></div><div>Although this is a moderate sized race (300 participants). I find it has a small race feel. The race directors, volunteers and others associated with the race take really good care of the runners. During this "intermission" one of the kind volunteers brought my drop bag from the post race tent to the finish line. All of the volunteers were so nice, helpful and cheerful even though this race was very cold!</div><div><br /></div><div>Finally, I headed back out on the course one last time for my friend Laurie. She was back a bit and walking. By this time I also was walking. By going back and forth on the course I successfully had a nice warm down in which I slowly decreased my speed! Laurie and I caught up and chatted about recent events. She saw Tristan more times than I did at the Disney Goofy Marathon...for a hug and a kiss, no less! It was pretty amusing that Tristan misses me at races even though I am dressed in pink, have sparkeley my fanny pack, lots of flowers, and even have my name on my shirt and yet Tristan spotted Laurie in a race of 20,000+ participants.</div><div><br /></div><div>After crossing the finish line for a third time, it was time to head back to meet up with Tristan, my chauffer. Overall, while a very tough race, it was lots of fun and I will be back! </div></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-6281741594267921832011-01-30T14:59:00.000-08:002011-01-30T16:30:57.342-08:00Challenges in Running: Observations from some recent running eventsI try to remain positive, happy and polite in all of my races (and training runs). I am sure I fail numerous times so please do not think I am pointing the finger at any person or any group of runners. As an amateur runner I know that races are supposed to be fun. But sometimes this is hampered by others actions. I assume this is because others are unaware. So this post is primarily to vent and call attention to issues that have occurred more frequently than would be if simple random chance.<div><br /></div><div>My first observation actually started at Marine Corps Marathon last year but then occurred again at Rock and Roll Arizona. Runners lining up in an inappropriate corral. Unfortunately this gets the "slower" run/walkers (which I consider myself) a bad name. Both of these races had honor system for entering the corrals except I assume for the elite runners. </div><div><br /></div><div>Unfortunately because of slower runners lining up at the front of the corrals bottlenecks in the early miles occur. This creates challenges (and even hostility) to occur for everyone. Even worse is when 3 or 4 competitors will abruptly stop and start walking in a pack rather than single file. I completely support every runner whose goal it is to run a marathon; however, it is unfortunate when common courtesies are not implemented. I admire and respect race directors who remind runners to place themselves in corrals that are appropriate for a reasonable guess of predicted finish time, pay attention to other runners, walk on the right (same side as where slow cars should go) and give a heads up when runners plan to walk.</div><div><br /></div><div>My second observation has to do with passing particularly in single track events. I have run numerous trail ultras and have not had any issues (and hope I have always been respectful). I indicate if I will be passing on the left or right and ask those passing me which side I should move towards. If I hear a pack of runners I tend to move off and standstill particularly when their approach is quick and imminent. </div><div><br /></div><div>Unfortunately I recently was in an event in which many times when I came up behind runners and tried to pass, the other runner would speed up. All this would mean is I was on a nasty surface for a longer time period. I understand keeping a steady speed but actively speeding up (particularly when the passing terrain is treacherous) seems unsportsmanlike. If you realize that you have been slowing down, fall in behind the runner, draft a bit and re-pass. But speeding up, especially if you slow down once you have been passed doesn't seem productive.</div><div><br /></div><div>My final observation is the assertion that runners with headsets can/do hear others. I have numerous times indicated, "on your right", "excuse me" or otherwise made a statement or asked a question that deserves a response (verbal or through movement). Numerous times I have not been heard or acknowledged. This actually caused a medical response to be delayed in front of me at the Disney Marathon. Even with the "sirens" on the EMT bicycles runners with headphones on appeared unaware, oblivious and unresponsive when bicyclists were going to assist an injured runner. This happened for a significant distance as the bicyclists worked their way forward. </div><div><br /></div><div>This is unacceptable. </div><div><br /></div><div>I would not want to have a medical issue in which every second mattered and because of runners not responding to clear warning signals permanent damage occurred, nor do I imagine would any runner want this for themselves or a loved one. </div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-5844499749382225902011-01-25T18:37:00.001-08:002011-01-25T18:59:04.049-08:00My most shocking race to date: Rock and Roll Arizona<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJGGHZgtI8y2nX8UGGZo79fhw1r1UtnkqSKmnN7lqHpPa8Ttt7CupubStWqFpVZScHU1hC5FYRM_SLU_83pNl1r_wLg7_J8muShM_lDKj6fhH6Nw6hi8cmBLzT1bjD118uPoAk8ojIyF0/s1600/P1161108.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJGGHZgtI8y2nX8UGGZo79fhw1r1UtnkqSKmnN7lqHpPa8Ttt7CupubStWqFpVZScHU1hC5FYRM_SLU_83pNl1r_wLg7_J8muShM_lDKj6fhH6Nw6hi8cmBLzT1bjD118uPoAk8ojIyF0/s320/P1161108.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566319490389869314" /></a>With my friend Elaine S. along the Rock and Roll Arizona Course during the first few miles.<div><br /></div><div>I know Elaine from several ultra marathons we have run together including: </div><div><br /></div><div>Rocky Raccoon 50/100 miler</div><div>Javelina Jundred 100 mile/100 km</div><div><br /></div><div>We have run these races over the past several years so have met several different times. </div><div><br /></div><div>Elaine has run many 100 miles and other ultra's and I will see Elaine several times throughout the year including Western States 100 as well as Vermont 100.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRMR6f3P00veMyPjA7giE_OlTN5XaEVcszHAAvZZaSdWfmSc11Fi3gFE0H4G75ubohCWRMVb9lmqWRP22x5uKcCQ6P4vYEAwKwCCOAXEhcdYIxZikjYQ9wqE0q7QfAX-etQEvGe7gFpl4/s1600/P1161119.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRMR6f3P00veMyPjA7giE_OlTN5XaEVcszHAAvZZaSdWfmSc11Fi3gFE0H4G75ubohCWRMVb9lmqWRP22x5uKcCQ6P4vYEAwKwCCOAXEhcdYIxZikjYQ9wqE0q7QfAX-etQEvGe7gFpl4/s320/P1161119.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566319486377849762" /></a>I am so thrilled to be awarded my marathon finishers medal. </div><div><br /></div><div>This was a very challenging marathon by the end. </div><div><br /></div><div>I finished the marathon in 3:52:17 which is a Marathon PR of over 10 minutes for me! </div><div><br /></div><div>The first miles flew by as I chatted with my friend Elaine. But during the later miles I started struggling with fatigue, pain and all of my recent running I think caught up to me as my legs started feeling like jelly. </div><div><br /></div><div>It is a fast course because it is so flat, but this also leads to some challenges as you are running using the same exact muscles the entire time. </div><div><br /></div><div>This year the weather was perfect starting in the low 50's then getting to the mid 60's by the time I finished. I think later finishers did mention it got hot but compared to a few years ago it was not too bad.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNBii2m-vwjv-ATA4XTbVc-AgYiGFphy9QdvX3qLYM1l85HB8L1xsax0Y5FdUT3_9fIH8Avzh7CbyqjI-2k5mZuW28Y5qc7KZzl8Na2oSRm511TK33mcMh5xEF2GY1VVUDOhq7VlgVgVU/s1600/P1161142.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNBii2m-vwjv-ATA4XTbVc-AgYiGFphy9QdvX3qLYM1l85HB8L1xsax0Y5FdUT3_9fIH8Avzh7CbyqjI-2k5mZuW28Y5qc7KZzl8Na2oSRm511TK33mcMh5xEF2GY1VVUDOhq7VlgVgVU/s320/P1161142.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566319486318652482" /></a>My friend John Bingham is an announcer at many Rock and Roll Marathons. </div><div><br /></div><div>Sadly because of my finish time, he was not at the finish line when I crossed but many other races he does cheer out to me. </div><div><br /></div><div>I believe our next shared event is the Mardi Gras Marathon in just a few weeks. </div><div><br /></div><div>John "The Penguin" Bingham has written many books that I think are excellent regardless of your running ability. He believes in every person and really encourages everyone to run to the best of their ability. What a class act!!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrrvyGJ2dt1JGAS7jKIssHf4BDjwMfxpja1f4CtQtWNu5tvCmK5Jdm7M_tXu7YD-DItFY6_Rpw0YdspP6IooLEsqUF9iIOlkzH2j1zd1T8WfWRpTHPwSP-3lFk00tNK2JJiA3SybLduwA/s1600/P1161151.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrrvyGJ2dt1JGAS7jKIssHf4BDjwMfxpja1f4CtQtWNu5tvCmK5Jdm7M_tXu7YD-DItFY6_Rpw0YdspP6IooLEsqUF9iIOlkzH2j1zd1T8WfWRpTHPwSP-3lFk00tNK2JJiA3SybLduwA/s320/P1161151.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566319480718602770" /></a>After I finish the Rock and Roll Marathon my most important stop is Yogurtini on the corner of Rural Road and University.</div><div><br /></div><div>It has super yummy yogurt with lots of different toppings.</div><div><br /></div><div>And of course the interior is decorated in my favorite color mint green!!! I know others might think my favorite color is pink but in reality I am a mint green/turqouise green girl. It is just that there is very few running cloth that is in mint green so I have to go to my second favorite color and embrace it with GUSTO. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can see our frozen yogurts in the foreground (mine is the big one) and Tristan trying to look like he is hugging me while simultaneously avoiding touching my stenchy/sweatiness!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz_9r0WcycBT9VqCSn984Ecwlw2VsI67KopUzQkHmqfUjNDoUUNF1HsTsyEnnmlzj6aQXm4epGnPom6ZDxtU_6uQ8MgLXvnFN6CVWY4vM3JucVO4YzyN6_iLKVMvtenv2BzdDDClqJctU/s1600/P1161155.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz_9r0WcycBT9VqCSn984Ecwlw2VsI67KopUzQkHmqfUjNDoUUNF1HsTsyEnnmlzj6aQXm4epGnPom6ZDxtU_6uQ8MgLXvnFN6CVWY4vM3JucVO4YzyN6_iLKVMvtenv2BzdDDClqJctU/s320/P1161155.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566319476678269026" /></a>After a brief rest and a treat at Yogurtini, it was time to attempt to summit Hayden Butte.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is how I always end my Rock and Roll Arizona Marathon race day. At the top you can get a view of downtown Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe and thus see the majority of the race course. </div><div><br /></div><div>It is cool to see the entire race course and nearly all 26.2 miles I have traveled. </div><div><br /></div><div>And for the first time in a while Tristan was definitely walking a lot faster than I. Although in my defense I had PR-ed in the marathon with a sub 4 hour, 3:52 marathon!!!<br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>A SUMMARY OF MY RACE</b></p><p class="MsoNormal">I have been running marathons since 2004.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My first year I ran only one marathon, the Marine Corps Marathon, in a time of 5:15.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The next year I ran MCM in 4:50 followed by the JFK50 miler in 12:25.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In 2006 I started running a marathon a month (or greater).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In 2006 my average time was 5:30.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The next year I improved slightly with times in the low 5 hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In 2008 I continued to run many marathons with a modest improvement in my time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Finally in 2009 I started seeing improvement in my time with an average marathon finish time of just under 5 hours. 2010 was a great year with PR’s in nearly every distance I ran starting with the Disney half marathon in 2:02.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In nearly every other race I PR-ed for the course or the distance including 100 miler, 100 km, 50 miler, 40 miler, 50 km and the marathon distance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Some of these improvements were significant including a 2+ hour improvement at both the Umstead 100 miler and Vermont 100 miler.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The Rock and Roll Arizona Marathon is a flat fast course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The marathon includes about 5,000 runners which is not too large but not too small, thus can be optimal for a PR.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Prior to the race it was suggested that I finish the race between 4 hours and 4:15.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This seemed manageable, a good time goal and would boost my confidence for my upcoming goal of a sub-24 hour Umstead 100 miler (as well as my quest to finish WS100 and the Grand Slam).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I felt 4:00-4:15 was a reasonable and manageable goal if I focused on the finish line and ran strong throughout the marathon.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Rock and Roll Arizona Marathon is a point to point marathon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Runners can park by the finish line and take a shuttle to the start or can park by the starting line in downtown Phoenix and take the metro/light rail back after finishing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Of course one can also choose a hotel near the finish line and walk to the shuttle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is what I have chosen each year, although this year I was lucky enough to hop a ride with my husband Tristan who was heading to Sedona for the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Other years I have had a bit of shuttle irregularity but this year the shuttle driver quickly and efficiently got us to the start area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Upon arriving at the start, I wandered around aimlessly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I had many layers on and was trying to stay warm and out of trouble.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I had eaten my usual breakfast of snowballs and diet mountain dew so I did not need to partake in any of the pre-race treats, although I did cap off my water bottle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>About 30 minutes before the race start I meandered to the Private Brooks Race Potties.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I had purchased way too much race stuff (which I need no more than a hole in the head, but still get—and this time it was so worth it!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The Brooks potties had running water, perfume spritzers, lotions and were clean, warm and had no line!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was in heaven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I made use of the potty since my 3<sup>rd</sup> diet mountain dew was hitting my bladder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I also used this time lurking in the bathroom wisely to rearrange my outfit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The predicted high was to be the upper 60’s or low 70’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But it was about 50 degree’s at the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I decided the appropriate outfit to wear was simply my tank, running skirt, sneakers and of course seamless bra, seamless underpants and drymax socks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Because of the chill in the air I elected to keep my moeben sleeves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Of course sparkeley my fanny pack was going to join me with all the proper accoutrements including: cell phone, camera, back up batteries and memory stick, lip balms (yes plural!), sunscreen stick, single pack wet wipes, poncho, meds including tums, pepto and two ibuprofen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Somehow in my recent running I had inadvertently not replaced my medpack (and while I haven’t been taking meds recently I share them with others depleting my supply).</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Once I decided on my outfit it was time to drop my bag in the UPS truck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I put this off as long as I could particularly since I was still happily loitering in the potty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>One last bathroom break and I was ready to head back out to the cold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>With just about 10 minutes to race start, I arrived in my corral.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I placed myself near the 4:00 pace group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was delighted to see my friend Larry M. and chat briefly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Pretty soon the Star Spangled Banner played and it was time for the starting gun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Hearing the Star Spangled Banner gets me prepared and psyched up for any race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I know the importance of the freedom associated with our national anthem and how lucky I am to have the freedom to do something I love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>After the starting gun goes off there is a small bit of movement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But then we abruptly stop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am near the 4 hour pace group but realize my shoes are not properly tied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>What I do not realize is that this is going to cause me some confusion later.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Tying my shoes takes a bit of time, but then I reassimilate into the runners.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Crossing the start line I take a quick picture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This will end up being one of my 10 pictures taken along the course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My lack of pictures is<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>one of my few disappointments in this race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">My first mile I try to take it easy and get warmed up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My friend Dan R. suggested this is a good race strategy back when we ran Richmond Marathon together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It seems to work and ensures the beginning of the race is not run too fast (Thanks Dan!).</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Approaching mile 1 I see the timer suggests my time is about 11 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am not sure how long it took me to get over the starting mat or if the mile marker is accurate but I feel I am running a comfortable pace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As I had approached mile 1 I had heard my name being called by a female voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is always an odd and surreal experience to hear my name during a race far away from home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sometimes I am a bit oblivious and assume it is some other Tammy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This time it was for me and was my friend Elaine from Rocky Raccoon and Javelina Jundred 100 over the past few years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Elaine is a little faster than I and has finished (and started) more 100 milers than I.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>She had caught up to me and I figured I would run a bit with her then let her go on ahead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Oddly enough we ran together until about miler 10.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">These miles with Elaine just flew by.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We chatted about 100 milers, 50 milers and upcoming races.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We both were selected for WS100 although I was actually at the lottery when my name popped up (which was so cool!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Elaine and I have run several different events on the same course including Rocky Raccoon (although she did the 100 mile when I have run the 50) and Javelina Jundred (again she did the 100 mile while I took the wuss out option and ran the 100 km).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Elaine is running her first VT100 so she also asked me about the race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was able to provide an excrutiatingly detailed description of the race (hey we had 26.2 miles of course to cover!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I also provided my insight about pacers in particular about that race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I sadly have had a moderate amount of challenges with my pacer pairing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I also have had some GREAT luck with inheriting pacers at that race including Pacer Shane who is in my short list of pacers for my Grand Slam (Pacer Iva, Pacer Dan, Pacer Shane and Pacer Ethel are my “go to pacers” but I am still filling up my Grand Slam schedule with pacers, of course Dan, Iva, Shane, and Ethel are known entities and are all considerable faster and have more endurance than I).</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">In addition to Vermont 100 miler we also talked about other ultra’s including Javelina Jundred (a super 100 miler/100 km race along the Pemberton Trail just north of Phoenix) Rocky Raccoon, where Elaine and I met 2 years ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact Elaine had met my mom at RR100 in 2009 which was really cool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Unfortunately that was the last race my mom was at my race before becoming hospitalized and passing away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is nice to meet up with runners who knew my mom because she was really special and super supportive of everyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I miss her lots and through seeing or meeting people she knew I feel close again.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Our conversation made the miles fly by.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Pretty soon in the distance ahead of us was the 3:50 marathon pace group!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This was shocking to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was feeling really strong and happy but I did not realize how fast we were going.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>At this point Elaine was starting to have some issues and slowed down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Since I was feeling good and knew my Boston Marathon qualifying time is now 3:50 I decided to catch up to the group.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I caught up I introduced myself to Mark, who I knew was the pace leader (my friend Pati Coury had given me some insight about all of the pacers).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He suggested he was going to run until mile 14 then switch out with a lady Monique because of a health issue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I tried to figure out when they started and what their pacing goal was but was a bit confused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It was suggested they were going to speed up in the second half but it was not clear by how much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I think each pacer has a different strategy and negative splits certainly is a good one except if you worry you will lose speed towards the end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I jog with the group for a bit but after the first water/gatorade station I realize being in this swarm of runners is not ideal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A few hundred meters ahead of the pace group there appears to be a gap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I decide I will push myself to get into this pocket so I don’t have to stress when grabbing Gatorade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As I move forward I pick up a runner friend Chuck who has run several marathons and has a goal of running a 3:45 or 3:50 marathon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We chat for a while and I learn that he is a bartender in Tempe, had lived in Phoenix right off the course previously and is going to be competing in the Ironman AZ in next fall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We pass the halfway point in ~1:55 and know we should be on target for a sub-3:50 marathon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am excited but know there is 13.1 more miles to go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We talk about a variety of subjects but after a few aid stations it ends up that he goes through quickly while I take my time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is not intentional but I do want to make sure I am well hydrated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And every so often I have to get 2-3 cups of Gatorade to get more than a few swallows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sometimes I wish tables/volunteers would indicate if you are getting just a swallow of beverage or a full cup.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is a bit distressing when you hope for lots of beverage and get less than 1 inch of beverage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>One time I ended up going back because I knew I needed to get calories and hydration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In addition to ensuring I get enough to drink I also need to walk with my beverages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am why sippy cups were invented!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I cannot run and drink without spilling all over myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>So basically I grab my cups of beverage, get out of the main flow of traffic then walk and drink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is not efficient but I figure that the time is well spent since I do not want to get dehydrated or run low on calories.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The miles continue to fly by.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>When I look at my Garmin 305 it suggests my pace is tending to be around 8:30 min/mile or so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Other than aid stations my pace appears to be under 9 min/mile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This means I am maintaining a pace that should qualify me for Boston.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I get excited but know there are still many miles until I finish.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">About mile 18 or 19 there is a super nice spectator with fresh Krispy Kreme donuts in a box.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Although there are probably 50 or 100 runners within a fairly close proximity to me only 2 other runners partake in this treat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The donut is super yummy and I am pretty sure almost warm and definitely soft and gooey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The only bummer is that it is REALLY gooey and sticky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am right near one of the other donut eaters and state, “too bad they did not give us a paper towel with our donut”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Then I realize I have a wet wipe in my bag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Ha! Pacer Dan, Jamie and others who challenge my need for multiple lip balms, ponchos, camera, cell phone, medications, sunscreen and wet wipes!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And people say I don’t need these items!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Unfortunately I end up with donut glaze over both hands and then forget to take a picture of me eating my tasty treat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But trust me it was YUMMY!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">After finishing my donut I realize my knee is really, really angry at me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I run about a mile and it is not going away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is my right knee that was mangled in a car accident in 1995 (I was hit as a pedestrian).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is pretty excruciating and I don’t have any painkiller left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I decide it might be wise to take a painkiller because my gait is changing because of this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I head to the medical tent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sadly this takes me about 30 seconds while they have a discussion about where the Tylenol is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>When they figure this out I am asked about why I need it and if I have taken Tylenol previously.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>No I haven’t taken any, yes I am happy if they mark up my bib and finally pointing to my 5 inch scar I indicate my surgical site is a bit painful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It tends to be a bit discomfortable 100% of the time but it has morphed into excruciating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They pour a glass of water which I humor them and drink up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Having worked at the FDA I know I want to minimize the challenge to my kidneys (ibuprofen) and liver (Tylenol) by taking plenty of liquids I would have drank a significant amount of water from my fanny pack bottle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I then head back onto the course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This long pit stop is a bit of a bummer but I hope it is time well spent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>By this time I know that I am back to being about 200-300 meters ahead of the 3:50 pace group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I had a little extra lead before my med break but I know I need to keep moving solidly to ensure I get in and out of the aid station before the pack of 3:50 runners make it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Although I note the pack is quite a bit smaller, I still want to be clear of the aid station when they arrive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is challenging to move through aid stations when there are lots of runners acting randomly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I don’t know if there is a code of conduct but it seems some runners stop abruptly when they get a beverage, others dart away from the cups and others seem to move seamlessly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am a “seamless mover” which works until a darter or stopper gets in front of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Even though my pack is a bit ahead of the 3:50 there still are a moderate amount of runners, but it is thinning out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I realize that if I go to the “far” aid station it is less crowded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I end up taking more steps but the ease in which I can get beverages is well worth it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I think about my friend Dan who observed during the Richmond Marathon that I do not run the tangents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact I run some crazy line along the marathon including specifically going out of my way to give high 5’s!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This race I continue to do this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I LOVE high 5’s, particularly from little kids and students from schools that have spirit groups along the course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The cheerleaders are so enthusiastic, track and cross country teams know just what say and at the various pep squads are so motivating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am really having a great race and continue to move along at a fast clip.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">At mile 23 my wheels fall off, my tank is empty and I decide I need to take up a different sport!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>What started out as a great run takes a turn for the worse (maybe I crash my donut sugar high).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am miserable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My legs feel like lead, my knee is still killing me but now a whole bunch of other joints decide to voice their displeasure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My back is bothering me, my arms are tired of moving and don’t get me started on my legs which want to be anywhere but attached to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">There’s a choice here I can move to the finish or I can hope the finish line moves to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sadly without violating laws of physics the second choice seems unlikely to happen!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">At this point I am moving as quickly as I can but realize I am really slowing down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A quick glance at my Garmin puts my time at 9+ min/mile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I know I have a bit of a buffer but I am struggling to do this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The 3:50 pace group surrounds me moving swiftly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is a bit of a bummer but I try to stay positive and keep up with them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Unfortunately approaching mile 24 we get to an incline on a bridge over the Salt River.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Heading up the hill I decide I am going to embrace my ultra-running roots and walk this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Actually this is how I justify my walking but realistically there was no way I was going to run up this hill.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My hill legs were left on Camelback Mountain the day before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I hope I can catch up with the group on the downhill using gravity to my advantage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Unfortunately the pace group uses gravity as well and stays ahead of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is a bit of a bummer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Then they move further and further ahead of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I look at my Garmin and it says my pace is 10 min/mile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I am running super fast!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Stupid Garmin!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As the 3:50 pace group disappears in the horizon I try to think positive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As long as I keep moving I will have a significant PR.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I know that I did have a bit of a buffer since I started after the 4:00 pace group so I might still be able to eek out a Boston Qualifier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But it will be close.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I pass mile 25.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My Garmin continues to give me bad news.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I continue to run a consistent 10 min/mile pace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is fine for any other marathon but I now really want Boston.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have traveled so far so fast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But then I start thinking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have so many excuses I come up with during this mile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Camelback the day before (which by the way I would not recommend as a pre-race warm up).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My Disney Half Marathon PR of 1:52 surely took something out of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Then I come up with the best excuse…I just ran 113.4 miles only 2.5 weeks before this race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I still push as hard as I can because I did push so hard for so long during the marathon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I need to put it all out there and see what happens.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I make the turn onto Rural Road passing Yogurtini.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My friend Nick Coury said they would not serve me if I finished in greater than 4 hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I will be served, wahoo!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I rounded this bend I also was excited to see the 3:50 pace group at the next turn ahead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My best guess is that I am 300-400 meters behind this group, which I guess converts to a deficit of about 2 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This will be close.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I keep putting one foot in front of the other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I think about how this easily could be my finish at Umstead 100, Western States 100, Vermont 100, Leadville 100 or even Wasatch 100 (optimistically) in which I need to dig deep to finish in my personal time goal or the race time limit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I keep moving forward as fast as I can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have nothing left but upon rounding the final bend I see the time 3:52:XX.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I will be getting a PR!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am super excited.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I give a few kids high fives as I round the bend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I don’t have the energy to head to the other side but try to wave to the crowd.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I hear a male voice cheering my name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I later learned this was likely my friend Dane R.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I was so excited on the inside but I am struggling to finish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is tough!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Finally, when the clock gets to 3:52:17 I cross the finish line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>For the first time since my first Umstead 100 miler I am barely able to move after finishing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I hunch over and nearly burst into tears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am so excited, thrilled and proud of myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have pushed as hard as I could and finished with a PR.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But the big question is: what was my final time?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">When I finally get a little bit of energy back I move along.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I get my medal and am so happy with my finish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I send a text to Tristan indicating that I finished and my gun time was 3:52.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is a PR.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I find the 3:50 pacer and ask if she knows what their chip time was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>She suggests they crossed the finish line a few seconds after 3:50.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This does not bode well for me as my best guess is that I was 30-40 seconds behind their start time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I do not know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I text my friend Nick Coury telling him my gun time and indicate I WILL be going to Yogurtini because I have finished in under 4 hours!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">He responds in just a few moments that my chip time is 3:50:45!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b>3:50 IS MY BOSTON QUALIFYING TIME FOR 2012!!!</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I have never been more excited about celebrating a birthday and getting older.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Let the party begin!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am so happy!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am so thrilled to learn about my qualification from a friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And the tense few minutes when I had no idea of my chip time made me appreciate this victory even more.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">It is now time to celebrate by traveling along the course backwards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have many friends still out there and I want to cheer them in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And of course now I can share my great news!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am so excited!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This race was one of my toughest races (particularly the last few miles) but I made it through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Heading back along the course I am delighted to see my friend Tammy B who I have run GTR50, VT100 and many other ultra’s and marathons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Not too far behind her I see my friend Jackie O who I ran most of the Bob Potts Marathon with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>When I get close to mile 24, I then see my friend Larry M.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I walk/jog Larry to the finish line and we catch up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Larry is so sweet and such an accomplished athlete having finished well over 100 marathons last year!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Nearly at the finish line I head off to the spectator area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I see my friend John Bingham and get a great big hug.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>John is such a great person and so encouraging to everyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am thrilled to tell him I have just qualified for Boston.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I walk the course backwards again and see my friend Maricar as well as Yolanda.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>After a quick picture I try to keep up but realize my legs are no longer running.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But of course I am pleased to share my excuse for being so slow and they are so excited for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I’m going to Boston!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I head back out onto the course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But my legs are getting tired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>So I position myself about mile 26 so I can hear Vertical Horizon playing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is cool to be able to cheer the runners while appreciating the concert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Pretty soon it is over 7 hours since the finish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I head to the finish line area and cheer on runners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I call my friend Karen to tell her about my Boston Qualifying time and John Bingham announces my feat over the loudspeaker.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I get it on video.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is so cool!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Runners are still coming in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>These are the runners who are digging deep to finish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am so happy for these runners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They are limping, struggling and obviously doing what it takes to get to the finish line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I cheer as loud as I can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Finally the race vehicles comes into sight and the race is over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">After the race finishes, Tristan arrives back from Sedona.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We decide to have Yogurtini followed by a climb up Hayden Butte to celebrate my victory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is how I always complete my Rock and Roll Arizona Marathone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I see a few others runners on the butte, but based on their medal ribbon, they are half marathoners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am pleased that I am able to make it up the butte.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I am even more pleased that I am, more importantly, able to make it back down the butte!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Dinner is Chompies then it is time for bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>What a great day! </p></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-77000514378817903832011-01-21T15:57:00.000-08:002011-01-22T07:21:25.973-08:00A summary of recent activities<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-_yQhhus85Ww3VVLJmhWTT8DhlsdwIxyb6I4dUwwyKGMgjPyXEa-k1JDu4HT_ybQ5J1R22Zn7R2fRjmaGNZIy5ISpNTt6xad2ufCHK0zfRapNEPaRoIIetF46AavhucKmn6aoYhIoius/s1600/P1040053.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-_yQhhus85Ww3VVLJmhWTT8DhlsdwIxyb6I4dUwwyKGMgjPyXEa-k1JDu4HT_ybQ5J1R22Zn7R2fRjmaGNZIy5ISpNTt6xad2ufCHK0zfRapNEPaRoIIetF46AavhucKmn6aoYhIoius/s320/P1040053.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564805318064950066" /></a>Celebrating my birthday!!<div><br /></div><div>For my "big" present Tristan treated my friends to dinner then for Cupcake Decorating at Lilly Magilly's (a new cupcake place). </div><div><br /></div><div>We each decorated one cupcake to eat there and one to bring home for later (if it made it home outside of our stomach). When I learned about the party at Lilly Magilly's I was excited to learn they provide Shirley Temples as the house drink!</div><div><br /></div><div>And of course it was so wonderful to celebrate with so many great friends and family (the blue person right in front of me on the far right side is my sister who traveled from VA to celebrate with me)</div><div><br /></div><div>I know I am incredible fortunate to have so many great friends both locally as well as all over the country (and even the world). </div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX9XAs5_eAmd5snkS06knaLMF6W5Y1CUn9PWcFka-WvtMA8uUjUOn0zoy8EUZOCoR4VsWmHmNic_5jG9CcVTkUUnzNbStyRBeXTXN5W1ILbtReX-cf0h9HQc9v6XPamxzMhWVum9u3v7I/s1600/P1080174.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX9XAs5_eAmd5snkS06knaLMF6W5Y1CUn9PWcFka-WvtMA8uUjUOn0zoy8EUZOCoR4VsWmHmNic_5jG9CcVTkUUnzNbStyRBeXTXN5W1ILbtReX-cf0h9HQc9v6XPamxzMhWVum9u3v7I/s320/P1080174.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564805315277194482" /></a>The Disney half marathon is always so much fun and I love all the characters along the course. </div><div><br /></div><div>The only issue I have is that I get super distracted by the characters along the course even though I worked at Disney World for 3 years when I was getting my M.S. in Statistics at the University of Central Florida. This does not help my finishing time.</div><div><br /></div><div>But alas it is cool to hang with characters all along the 13.1 mile and 26.2 mile courses of the Disney Goofy Marathon!</div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4tfTdoBt3cPW4-g-wW2cLUs0W0yeDjHcutyAgMVXM3kFz-NoZXj-Xsbmmy99j7TWJS8qdywB4kxqM67R5yG4sfovFOCmPH1z2o8s3qXM501ObW-k7I_Ttyf1Gi2igXzn-8XojtVMe2E/s1600/P1090792.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4tfTdoBt3cPW4-g-wW2cLUs0W0yeDjHcutyAgMVXM3kFz-NoZXj-Xsbmmy99j7TWJS8qdywB4kxqM67R5yG4sfovFOCmPH1z2o8s3qXM501ObW-k7I_Ttyf1Gi2igXzn-8XojtVMe2E/s320/P1090792.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564805308669293586" /></a>After every Disney Marathon I like to hang out and savor my finish. </div><div><br /></div><div>There is a DJ in the finish line festival and there always seem to be hula hoops. Each year I spend a long time hula hooping. This year in fact I started my Disney Marathon experience hula hooping at the EXPO. </div><div><br /></div><div>Going into my post race festivities my stomach already was feeling the burn from my ~1 hour of hula hooping prior to the race (in fact during the race my stomach was a bit tender). But on a positive note I had burned through my birthday cupcake calories:-)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM_Y-0pXz1wjBXqZ7IAEl1E3ynLlE4fNHMvs_S7aBylm9bwhkg2Up4C9qDy-q-NhcVokWubsT5bfTZ7Vg3cmkq_KC1BP0ixph7ggQiEzC6Kg2LuBaXyTSwNOTZ5jX_JKTSvlfMQCKqIMw/s1600/P1140881.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM_Y-0pXz1wjBXqZ7IAEl1E3ynLlE4fNHMvs_S7aBylm9bwhkg2Up4C9qDy-q-NhcVokWubsT5bfTZ7Vg3cmkq_KC1BP0ixph7ggQiEzC6Kg2LuBaXyTSwNOTZ5jX_JKTSvlfMQCKqIMw/s320/P1140881.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564805301844224722" /></a>Prior to the Rock and Roll Arizona Marathon I was incredibly lucky to be able to share a lovely meal with the entire Coury family.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><i>From left to right</i></b>: Tristan, Me, Nick, Nathan, Peter, Jamil, Melia and Pati. We apparently all did get the memo that the uniform was to be a blue or black shirt! In fact nearly everyone was wearing an Across the Years or Javalina Jundred Shirt (which is one of the numerous races Jamil/Nick Coury and their family are RD's/volunteers)</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>A Summary of the past few weeks--until the Phoenix Rock and Roll Marathon</b></div><div><br />The past few weeks have been pretty hectic for me. I completed Across the Years in Arizona, flew back to MD had a few days there (including a VERY important birthday) then headed to Florida for the Disney Goofy Marathon, came back to MD for a few days and flew to Phoenix for the Rock and Roll Marathon. In this time period I took off only a few work days and still had to keep up with a bunch of deadlines. With this hectic schedule both professionally and personally I had little expectation for any of my runs being too successful. <div><br /></div><div>But my year did start off well with a PR at the Disney Half marathon with a new half PR of 1:52:51! This cut off nearly 6 minutes from my previous half marathon PR (this Septembers Parks Half Marathon) and even involved a few pictures with characters and feeling great the entire race. The marathon was a different story but I did have a great time during my nearly 7 hours on the course. Of course this involved several rides, lots of pit stops to eat and drink and lots of socializing! </div><div><br /></div><div>Then this past weekend Tristan and I headed to the Rock and Roll Arizona Marathon for my third running of this race. I really enjoy the race and now have a bunch of friends in Arizona and knew several friends who were going to be running the race (after I finished I learned I had even more friends on the course then even I knew about).</div><div><br /></div><div>I went to the EXPO on Friday and enjoyed seeing and experiencing the EXPO including attending a presentation by John Bingham as well as seeing my friend Dane Rauschenberg (an author of the book See Dane Run). I also was fortunate enough to see my pacer from JJ100 in 2010, Elizabeth "e" as well as a runner she was going to pace through the race. </div><div><br /></div><div>Friday evening Tristan and I met up with the Coury's (the Race Director & Family of such races as Javalina Jundred, Across the Years, Pemberton Trail Races and other Aravaipa races). We had a great meal and shared running, hiking, and life stories. </div><div><br /></div><div>It was such a pleasure to hang out with Pati, Peter (the parents), Melia, Nick, Nathan and Jamil (the children). They are a wonderful family and so much fun to be around. And since Nick and Jamil have run a few of my upcoming ultra's I was able to get some good advice for training and preparing for various ultramarathon courses like Western States and Leadville. I get to see Nick and Jamil in just about 2 months at the Umstead 100 miler where I know they will do great...perhaps great enough to finish then pace me for a lap:-). </div><div><br /></div><div>Both Pati and Peter were going to run the half marathon together on Sunday which I thought was so sweet! Pati and Peter ended up finishing with a time of 2:32. This was just Pati's second half marathon and it was a massive PR by nearly half an hour, way to go!!! </div><div><br /></div><div>After our delightful meal Tristan and I headed back to our hotel to prepare for what ended up being a very long day of hiking. With the Coury's advice and directions we decided to go to Camelback Mtn just north of Pheonix. It is a beautiful mountain but in retrospect not necessarily the best pre-race hike. There is a section in which you must hold a hand rail to climb up 50 or so verticle feet. Then another half mile or so you are climbing and scrambling up rocks that make the Weverton Cliffs section of the AT/JFK50 miler look like childs play! </div><div><br /></div><div>The hike was beautiful and the views from the top impressive but by the end my knee's and quads were a little angry about the whole hike. In fact towards the end although Tristan was struggling a bit because of his mountaineering accident, I was struggling because I am pretty incompetent at hiking and basically I am a big sissy!</div><div><br /></div><div>After finishing this hike the least we deserved was a big meal, so we headed to Sweet Tomatoes for dinner. I am pretty sure if that restuarant goes bankrupt it is our fault as we went back numerous times for salads, breads, soups and of course desserts! Chocolate Lava cake=yum!! This was a good way to carbo-load for the Phoenix Rock and Roll Marathon.</div></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-76960164870452218122011-01-02T11:38:00.000-08:002011-01-02T12:29:04.802-08:00Across the Years, a bit of background<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85dXtWYerY8HDgV0iZEvx_sXwtYgcZA_b-jnGNU2fx8wH4TaMlEVm_3Lqhp4Qf-6UqGKJ4-_WH2Tvuf2upfBAJ_RX3wot2zBWaxLZZ6eNKXRDNilr-nlx42eDemMIumwNCHAqf59bx4k/s1600/PC292386.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85dXtWYerY8HDgV0iZEvx_sXwtYgcZA_b-jnGNU2fx8wH4TaMlEVm_3Lqhp4Qf-6UqGKJ4-_WH2Tvuf2upfBAJ_RX3wot2zBWaxLZZ6eNKXRDNilr-nlx42eDemMIumwNCHAqf59bx4k/s320/PC292386.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557683917768610226" /></a>Here is the start line of the Across the Years on Dec 29th. This was the first day of the event. There were 3 races going off at this time: the 24 hour race of Dec 29th, the 48 hour race of Dec 30th and the 72 hour race (which had only one start).<div><br /></div><div>There were about 50 runners who seemed to be lurking by the start line but very few runners seemed to be in a hurry to start (so there might have been other runners just loitering).</div><div><br /></div><div>The day started out fairly nice. A bit chilly but we did not start in the rain which was good.</div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9sPaBCbbyNKlBSZFKCWyRD-wyMGSYAMfoRM_lPxXIihctq5FiG3deTxSNu-cGL7UzuIan2IO0fDqPe1boyXxubyK6cAyE1_AXptlX3ZojoM-YwZCGEFPdbZm1TeRG3DG58RxSyPS5_r4/s1600/PC292506.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9sPaBCbbyNKlBSZFKCWyRD-wyMGSYAMfoRM_lPxXIihctq5FiG3deTxSNu-cGL7UzuIan2IO0fDqPe1boyXxubyK6cAyE1_AXptlX3ZojoM-YwZCGEFPdbZm1TeRG3DG58RxSyPS5_r4/s320/PC292506.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557683912579312834" /></a>Here is a picture of the runner status. This screen indicated who had just crossed the start/finish line and their overall status.</div><div><br /></div><div>The status included:</div><div>runner name</div><div>lap number</div><div>time/split of last lap</div><div>bib number</div><div><br /></div><div>There was a color coding scheme with runners in the 48 hour listed in blue. </div><div><br /></div><div>It was kind of neat to cross the mat run a few feet then see the screen listing who was coming up from behind.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDWWK-TyjCOXpCSYj7p4vXxBQLgTcz_6xl4IM7QiZiO2eEVIafJ0AaPgmZrSfcVKcl2H98mIUMJnLg-vkDirn1NEgNBvUxOYaDVUrNc5QFHPh40DPTgL0oTJJ4D7mODAEhWiydcmkky-w/s1600/PC292476.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDWWK-TyjCOXpCSYj7p4vXxBQLgTcz_6xl4IM7QiZiO2eEVIafJ0AaPgmZrSfcVKcl2H98mIUMJnLg-vkDirn1NEgNBvUxOYaDVUrNc5QFHPh40DPTgL0oTJJ4D7mODAEhWiydcmkky-w/s320/PC292476.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557683906964806434" /></a>This was my top standing on the leader board. You can see I was 5th place overall and 3rd female at this point.</div><div><br /></div><div>I did not belong in this group as I am a mediocre runner at best but apparently I was a bit speedy early on. This was somewhat purposely done as I hate running in the rain. I figured I wanted to get as many miles before the rain came...then maybe I could hang up my sneakers and quit:-)</div><div><br /></div><div>In face the runners on this board in 8, 9 and 10th place ended up finishing quite well and far ahead of me. </div><div><br /></div><div>Of course I believe I may have won in the longest lap competition with one lap nearly 6.5 hours over the first night when the weather was really bad. I had gotten up about 2 a.m. but when my friend Jamie D indicated it was lightening out I decided to go back to bed and wait out the storm.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am really glad I made this decision because a few minutes later there was a massive rain storm with significant wind. Even with two tents, an operational generator and a earplug in I could hear (and feel) the wind. I was glad I was not out in the worst of it!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzJ-UZ2rxCTzBfvNyc4TD-7cPj7U991oeRrjHeYUV-RVMU5TQex87wiQ54PRcq4Go86AupM1loXBIjLftWc_6scLKdSNFiS6mC0JE3Qwf4nxB5uLEFwr4rgS2oUgo6PEYE9QcbAz-uiGY/s1600/PC292505.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzJ-UZ2rxCTzBfvNyc4TD-7cPj7U991oeRrjHeYUV-RVMU5TQex87wiQ54PRcq4Go86AupM1loXBIjLftWc_6scLKdSNFiS6mC0JE3Qwf4nxB5uLEFwr4rgS2oUgo6PEYE9QcbAz-uiGY/s320/PC292505.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557683894753379426" /></a>Here are some of the WONDERFUL race volunteers. </div><div><br /></div><div>This includes Nick Coury (in black/red jacket) and Sue Norwood (in blue jacket) as well as another volunteer I did not catch his name.</div><div><br /></div><div>Nick in addition to volunteering at the aid station, helping clear the course of the HUGE puddles by creating little canals and doing other tasks also ran many laps during the race. He is SUPER sweet and so funny! (although he did suggest when he had the shovel creating trenches for water runnoff and I asked if it was to bury runners who complained too much that yes it was to dispatch runners...yikes!!:-) </div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij8QhX2D67G87y7OxEQEoT9ri6W5oJl57UA3D4RJEcSoHi4MeyBny4_bLCqKU8o2iiWCHnn60oEjTDu3L7VsBesfk8kKZrwC-oAbZbpVH7hRLgDOlN0qIGcBgps8_oQuZFAEt4oTv6bhE/s1600/PC292501.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij8QhX2D67G87y7OxEQEoT9ri6W5oJl57UA3D4RJEcSoHi4MeyBny4_bLCqKU8o2iiWCHnn60oEjTDu3L7VsBesfk8kKZrwC-oAbZbpVH7hRLgDOlN0qIGcBgps8_oQuZFAEt4oTv6bhE/s320/PC292501.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557683888633705330" /></a>Here I am on the first night trying to run through the rain awaiting mail. There were no notes so I was bummed:-(</div><div><br /></div><div>In fact there were some issues in the first day because of electricity issues. The backstretch had no lights because of a short and it was obvious that printing out messages was quite challenging considering everything was damp. </div><div><br /></div><div>Letters were greatly appreciated and so much fun to receive. I will admit this picture was taken about 10 p.m. AZ time which means most of my East Coast friends and family were probably asleep. But next year you all need to be less slackers!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>You also will notice that we also recieved a pair of moeben sleeves in our mailbox and for a while I used the mailbox to store my keys as well as a headlamp which once the backstretch was illluminated with Christmas lights I no longer needed.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>THE RACE: A description </b> <br /><br />The weather for across the years was predicted to be pretty bad. Rain followed by wind and finally a cold front would come through with freezing temperatures. And all of this within the first 24 hours.<div><br /></div><div>Luckily I had altered my running goals back in Nov when I developed shin splints after JFK50 miler. I no longer was attempting to run 100 miles in the first 24 hours. In fact by the time I started my goal became to run 100 miles and I figured any additional miles would be icing on the cake.</div><div><br /></div><div>The start was fairly low key. There might have been 50 people congregating at the start and most of us headed off with a slow jog or walk. We were going to be on the course for a long time so no sense in rushing! Because I was busy taking pictures and chatting I may have been one of the last runners across the start line. This was fine with me.</div><div><br /></div><div>The course was a 500 meter (0.5 km) track at Nardini Manor. Every 2 hours the direction would change. The first direction we headed started off through a small forest with a cute gazebo. Many of the runners had tents set up in this section. As the rains came this area became quite wet with large puddles a few inches deep! The next segment took us by Nardini Manor a historic manor house. There was a large lawn that on day 2 during the wind storm some volunteers were kiting on. Here was our first turn to the left.</div><div><br /></div><div>After passing the manor, we went by a stand of fruit tree's including oranges and grapefruits. After the fruit tree's there was a cute fountain area. We then would turn left again and would pass by the maze. I never went in but heard from several kids it was fun! This backstretch was the worst section after the rain as it became extremely muddy. But before the rain started, this is the section I saw a rabbit and met a dog (through the fence). The backstretch was the longest straight away and most exposed as there were only tree's on the manor side (left) while the right had beautiful views of the mountains above Phoenix. A left turn put us by several porta potties on the right and the cars in the parking area on the right. I tried to visit my car infrequently but I would guess I had at least 20 or 30 visits to my car. Sometimes laps in succession!</div><div><br /></div><div>The final left turn on the course headed us back to the start line by the aid station. This was the most exciting part of the course because this was where the action was. After the aid station on the right was the big tent as well as the warming tents within the big tent. I spent alot of time in the warming tent, particularly on the first night. </div><div><br /></div><div>Near the start finish there was the "mailbox". This was the highlight of my race. I received many messages from friends near and far. These really perked me up and meant alot to me. It was nice to be cheered on virtually. And some of my messages were quite funny! Many runners would talk about and share their messages. My biggest disappointment was that my cats did not send me a message. I know of several runners whose pets did not let their lack of opposable thumb stop them from sending warm wishes!</div><div><br /></div><div>The volunteers throughout the race were super. They attended to runners every need. Basically you could go into the aid station request something and they would have it ready when you got back a few minutes later. Or of course you could loiter and hang out.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the middle of the course there also was a real bathroom that was heated and set up really great. There were nice smelling soaps, gum, scope, floss, seating and HEAT!! I have no idea the set up for the men's room but I will admit I spent alot of time in the bathroom hanging out. </div><div><br /></div><div>At the start finish there were two TV screens with update race information. Typically approaching the finish there was a listing of the current racer standings. And after you crossed the start/finish line you could see what lap you were on as well as the split. You also could see who was just ahead and frequently who was right behind you as the list included about 15 runners information. It was kind of cool to know who was about to pass you before they did. Along the course you could only tell who was passing you if they were talking (and you recognized their voice) or after they passed you, you could see their name on the bib (if it was exposed). During the storms and at night many of us did not have our bibs out as effectively...and it was hard to read in the dark.</div></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-39540655413197776742011-01-01T21:12:00.000-08:002011-01-01T21:49:03.323-08:001, 2, 2, 3, ....5? (or perhaps even 6?): The start of my Across the Years Race ReportThe sequence 1, 2, 2, 3 (and hopefully 5 or 6) is not a fibinocci sequence. But it does have special meaning to me. It is the number of 100 milers I have run each year since my first 100, Umstead 100 in 2007.<div><br /></div><div>This past week I ran the Across the Years 48 hours race completing 113.4 miles with just over 1 minute to spare. My last mile split was under 10 min/mi and my last lap was in an 8:31 min/mile pace. I had so much energy building during the last hour and so many runners and spectators were cheering me on, I just had to eek out every last bit of this experience.</div><div><br /></div><div>In fact about 7:30 a.m. (1.5 hours before my finish). I had my last bathroom break, put on blue sparkeley (my fanny pack) and started jogging at a faster clip. Early in the day after my final rest/nap I had been averaging 6-10 minute laps but I knew I had a bit of energy left. I decided I wanted to break 110 miles so I needed to stay focussed and be consistent. Little did I know I would exceed my goal and expectations.</div><div><br /></div><div>But I am getting ahead of myself.</div><div><br /></div><div>After nearly being unable to participate in the race, I was able to use my back up plan including a pretty expensive business class ticket bought within a few days of the flight. Luckily this flight went off without any issues. After picking up my rental car, I headed to Chompies and Yogurtini in Phoenix, my two favorite eateries. I picked up a bagel sandwich and then headed up Hayden Butte for a small walk to stretch my legs. I then went to Yogurtini for the meal of champions...a bunch of flavors of yogurt and lots of toppings. It was yummy and I was set for my race.</div><div><br /></div><div>After checking in at the Host Hotel, the Best Western I was lucky enough to meet Jamie Honeycut who is super sweet and an awesome runner. I knew of her from facebook and observed she had an Arkansas traveler 100 miler shirt. After setting up my stuff, I headed to the race site, Nardini Manor for my volunteer shift. I was working the registration desk with Jim O'Neill and Sue Norwood. Jim and Sue are so nice and I have been really lucky to cross paths numerous times at many races. And this time I got to spend some quality time catching up. Registration was lots of fun and I was able to put my mathematical skills/education to use re-arranging bags in numerical order. It was lots of fun. But all to soon it was time to go head to the hotel to sleep.</div><div><br /></div><div>A bunch of alarms woke me up about 6:30 so I could get ready. Once I was dressed I headed to the breakfast buffet and was lucky enough to sit with Jamie H. We chatted about the upcoming race as well as about running in general. Jamie H was doing the 48 hour race that started the next day but was going to come out to the race to watch and cheer on runners. Our table was next to Deborah Horne who was also running the 48 hour. Sadly the topic of conversation was dominated by the weather. It was not looking good particularly for the first day. </div><div><br /></div><div>Across the years is a set of several races run simultaneously or concurrently. There is a 72 hour race that starts on Dec 29, two 48 hour races: one starting on Dec. 29 and one starting on Dec 30 and finally three 24 hour races starting on Dec 29, Dec 30 or Dec 31rst. Those of us who ran on Dec 29th ended up running in "Phoenix's WORST WEATHER IN 10 YEARS!!". It was epic. There was rain, wind and over the night a severe thunderstorm. </div><div><br /></div><div>After finishing my meal, I checked out and went to the race site. Getting out of my car I saw my friends Jamie & David Donaldson who were running the 24 hour race starting the 29th. Jamie ended up coming in 1rst overall and David ran nearly 80 miles. We chatted very briefly but they still had to check in.</div><div><br /></div><div>Pretty soon it was time for the race to start. My car was parked about 50 feet from the course ready to serve as my home base and of course there was a well stocked aid station runners saw every 500 meters! Every 2 hours the course would turn around and you would get to see other runners. It was odd to see runners head on after following them for many hours. And since we had our names on our bibs on our back sometimes the only way to recognize someone was through their gaiters or outfit. And because of the terrible weather outfits were changing faster than an awards show host! </div><div><br /></div><div>My outfit did change a bit but my base layers remained the same throughout the race. My lucky pink Tammy tank, a maroon Tammy long sleeve, my pink marathon girl skirt and a pair of black pants. My shoes & gaiters were changed at mile 100 but they stayed pink themed. And my hat varied from a visor with flowers, a thermal hat with hawaiian flowers and finally my cat hat (which ultimately caused quite a stir).</div><div><br /></div><div>The competitor list was posted well before the race, so I knew I would be running with many friends over the course of my 48 hours. On the first day I would be running with: Karsten S., Phil R., the Donaldson's, Lynn N., Deb H., and so many other from various ultra's including VT100, JJ100, Umstead 100, the race around the lake, Rocky Raccoon 50. On the second day I would be joined by Maryann R., Phil M., and many others I knew from many ultra's. It was going to be a massive reunion and of course I was going to meet lots of new friends!! </div><div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-56925821753914328912010-12-27T12:27:00.000-08:002010-12-27T12:44:14.101-08:00My final 2010 Race: Across the Years 48 hour RaceAfter a bit of a travel snafu (my flight was cancelled even though the Gaithersburg and Baltimore area did not get much snow) I am about to head off to Across the Years. <div><br /></div><div>Luckily as in every aspect of my life (including drop bags, my fanny pack and personal necessities) I had a back up plan. Although my back up plan involved a flight that is my second most expensive flight this year (the most expensive was my flight to Portland Oregon to get Tristan after his fall off the mountain). Alas it will be worth it to see so many friends and make many new ones during my epic adventure of the 48 hour race at Across the Years.</div><div><br /></div><div>My goal before my "Italian Flu" and shin splints was a sub 24 hour 100 mile, then to see how much further I could go perhaps with a sub goal of 135 miles because it is the same distance as Badwater. But considering my training has been a bit sparse lately and I sure don't want to start 2010 with an injury I might try to run 120-130 miles over the course of the 48 hours. My friend Karen, who ran the 24 hour Race around the lake with me suggested I should aim for 200 km. This coming from a person who ran her first 5 km in June and tripled her distance one month later makes me think I should step up to the plate and go for 124 miles at a minimum!</div><div><br /></div><div>During this race, runners can receive messages through the website:</div><div><br /></div><div> <a href="http://www.acrosstheyears.com/">http://www.acrosstheyears.com/</a> </div><div><br /></div><div>My race starts at 9 a.m. Mountain time on Dec. 29th and finishes on Dec 31rst at 9 a.m. Feel free to send me messages!!</div>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7299086143790529567.post-89786312650981843192010-12-23T16:38:00.000-08:002010-12-23T16:40:18.722-08:00Fear<p class="MsoNormal">Any of you reading my blog for a while know I have a bunch of fears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sometimes I control my fears but all too often, I let my fears control me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This coming summer when I face the biggest challenge of my life (at least that I have chosen to face) I will have to overcome many fears and will need to toughen up on many levels.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">My biggest fears in life are</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:list .5in"><!--[if !supportLists]-->1)<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span><!--[endif]-->Serial Killers-this fear strikes me in ultras where I end up running alone in the dark extensively.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Let me just say from experience reading the “Zodiac Killer” is not ideal pre-race reading.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in">I have no solution for this fear but considering I carry lots of lip balm, emergency poncho and salt/pepper maybe I can McGuyver something up if ever attacked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Actually I keep telling my husband Tristan that my pepper packets if I opened and tossed at someone is the poor/lazymans pepper spray.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:list .5in"><!--[if !supportLists]-->2)<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span><!--[endif]-->Rattlesnakes-actually I fear all snakes but I am particularly worried about rattlesnakes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Maybe I have watched too much “Venom ER” and I have seen altogether too many rattlesnakes along trails.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I just finished a book about the Grand Slam in which a paragraph talks about a rattlesnake crossing the course near an aid station.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Yikes!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in">I have no solution for this fear but I am thinking my “Pepper Spray” might come in handy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:list .5in"><!--[if !supportLists]-->3)<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span><!--[endif]-->Cougars-pumas, mountain lions, panthers are on my list because they are the same animal and if my cat roughs me up pretty badly at only 10 lbs I can only imagine what an animal 10X their size can do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.25in"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in">I have no solution for this but I think this is a job for my “Pepper Spray”</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.25in"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:list .5in"><!--[if !supportLists]-->4)<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span><!--[endif]-->Falling-since gravity is a law, not a guidance falling is a big fear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I tend to be unstable on my feet and fall with moderate frequency.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.25in;text-indent:.25in"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in">I have no solution for falling but my previous strategy for runs in which falling is likely I tend to sit on my butt and work my way down (for big steps) and at times when courses are slippery I slam into tree’s or other immobile objects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This means after some races, I look like I have been in a WWF match (losing obviously) rather than a race.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.25in"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:list .5in"><!--[if !supportLists]-->5)<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span><!--[endif]-->Dirty Feet-I am fastidious about my feet in particular but actually hate being dirty at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I may be in the wrong sport!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have been nearly in tears during a few races when the grim line to my foot is a dark brown and I have to touch all the dirt to get to my feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Even worse is when this dirt has gotten through my gaiters, sneakers and socks and there are dirt gobs between my toes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Eww!! </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.25in"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in">I have no solution for avoiding dirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Maybe I need to pick a new sport.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I think I could really embrace ping pong except I think I might lack depth perception (although that might be why I fall a lot!). </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:list .5in"><!--[if !supportLists]-->6)<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span><!--[endif]-->Stream Crossings-my feet can get dirty, I could fall and I’ve seen a coral snake in a river in Florida and a rattlesnake along a river at Shenandoah Nat’l Park, so this is the triumvariate of my fears!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in">I have no solution for this fear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Even worse I just realized there are a bunch of stream crossings in Western States (and maybe Leadville & Wasatch 100 but please don’t burst this bubble quite yet if this is true, I can cross that river when I get to it).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Speaking of my fear of stream crossings, I could pack a raft, a pair of galoshes or stilts, so I guess I do have a solution, although it probably is not optimal.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US; mso-bidi-language:AR-SA">In all honesty and seriousness, I actually do get quite distressed at all of these issues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I try not to be paralyzed by them but there have been a few times where I nearly panic and have to repeat to myself “Go to your Happy Place” over and over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>If anyone has suggestions I am happy to hear what you have done that has worked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Thanks!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span>Runner Tammyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00059758273238421216noreply@blogger.com7