Hurry Slowly . . . but Hurry!

2012-02-07T16:39:00.000-08:00

Most folks just plain enjoy being outside and in the woods. There is just something peaceful and satisfying about it! And last Saturday was especially nice!

Since I couldn't run Uwharrie this year, I decided to run the Medoc Marathon course backwards and just see how far I could get. The answer . . . 9.8 miles. Not all that far but my furthest yet. Recovery continues and I'm still excited!

Funny some of the things I think of while running. At one point out there I decided that both rocks and trees were 1) beautiful additions to the woods, but at the same time . . . 2) they are evil!

Of the two, rocks are much more honest. I mean when you see a rock you know it's hard and can hurt you. And many times you can stop and simply kick it off the trail.

But trees . . . trees just look so inviting and gentle. But that is just one side . . . . the other is trees are the devils of the woods!

Luring your eyes with their interesting trunks and branches they have sent out their root out in a covert mission to attack both suspecting and unsuspecting runners and hikers. Even when you think the trail is a nice, gentle pine straw section you better beware . . . those frickin' roots are just hiding there waiting to catch your toe and throw you to the ground! Luckily trees move really slowly . . . so you can get away before being eaten!

I also spent a lot of time trying to come up with a better way to mark the Medoc trails. The current approach just simply sucks. And the Park experimented with using plastic colored squares and circles instead of painted blazes. Thank goodness Medoc rangers now has agreed to return to paint blazes and the park trail map is being redone . . . so the timing is perfect to re-design trail blazes. I did come up with a more simple and easier to follow approach . . . but now we learn the map is too far along and the park wants to just go ahead and paint blazes marking the trails as they are marked today.

Damn . . . what a missed opportunity!

I can run!

2012-01-23T16:02:00.000-08:00

There was a time, not too many years ago when I believed my running life was over.

X-Rays revealed significant arthritis in my left knee. My orthopaedic surgeon told me there was nothing he could do except knee replacement surgery. I could run as long as I wanted to, but he assured me that my running was going to be over quite soon and a knee replacement was in my future. His advice was to put that off as long as I possibly could.

Long story short I did quit running . . . for about 10 years before I found my own miracle cure. No surgery or medicine and I was able to run again. And run I did!

Not fast . . . but I completed a ton of marathons and a whole bunch of ultras. Two cartilage knee surgeries (one on my left knee and one on my right) didn't even really slow me down. My only personal running goal left is to finish a 100 mile run. Three attempts and three failures . . . well . . . let's don't call them failures. Just unsuccessful attempts. A failure would be to not try.

And I've tried.

My October hip surgery has been a difficult challenge. And the story had not finished.

But I have hit a plateau in my comeback and progress is not detectable right now. That may start to change tomorrow. Or next week. Or next month, Or maybe next year. Or maybe not at all.

And that's what I've been thinking a lot about in the last two weeks. What if 4-6 miles is my new limit? What if I don't progress any further?

It's not that pain starts building and it's the pain that limits my distance. No . . . it's something really strange. My hip seems to 'tighten up' and loose strength. I know that doesn't make much sense. And you would thing I would just run through that. But it is very limiting. And I'm having a really hard time getting through this. To the point where I have started to consider the possibility that this could be as good as it gets! There may well not be a successful 100 mile finish. There may not be another marathon . . . nor even a 10 miles in my future.

Now understand . . . I'm not giving up! And I honestly don't want a single comment about this post. I just wanted to share with you what is going on in my 'unusual' mind! My hip doctor has warned me this may be a six month recovery and I'm only 3 months in! Well ahead of were he thought I would be by this time! So the story if far from over!

There is a part of me that is not sad at all about this possibility of limited running! Honestly there is even some relief there! Right now when I think about all the work needed to even have an honest 100 mile attempt the mountain seems almost too high. A significant part of me is not disappointed to think I may not have to go through this.

4-6 miles a run is PLENTY to continue a healthy, active life. And maybe my active life could even be extended by NOT attempting these longer distances. It's not bad to do a 4-6 mile run every other day.

Quite frankly, in the middle of my 10-year hiatus when I thought I had arthritis, I would have done a 'double back-flip' to run just 2 miles every other day. So . . . to be able to run 4-6 miles is a gift I'm seriously happy to have received!

But let me say this again. I'm not giving up yet. I'm just saying that if I do have to give up . . . I'm okay with it. Just as long as no one puts "But he never could finish a 100 miler!" on my gravestone! Hey . . . come to think of it, I'm going to be cremated anyway, so that's just not going to happen anyway!

Seriously . . . no comments please.

Weymouth Woods 100k

2012-01-16T06:32:00.000-08:00

I spent Saturday (and into Sunday) at the Weymouth Woods 100k . . . an awesome race put on by Marie Lewis and the Mangum Track Club. As I always am, I was so impressed with ultra runners and their quests. So many great stories out there. People testing their limits! And some just out having fun.

My main job at Weymouth was trying to keep Charles West away from the aid station volunteers.

Charles thought I was there to 'crew' for him in his effort to qualify for the Western States 100 miler . . . the super bowl of ultra running (yes . . . he was successful!). But actually Marie Lewis called and asked me if I would be willing to do a special favor for her. Charles is well known for getting a little 'focused' on his goals and as the race progresses Charles transforms! In addition to intimidating aid-station workers, Marie was very concerned about the long-term effects that seeing Charles might have on any of the children he might come in contact with. So Marie asked Erich Chatham and I to try to keep Charles away from people.

Just the look on Charles' face will, at times, put "the fear of God" into the souls of the un-informed! Charles transforms from a friendly, mild-mannered, fun-loving guy into what appears to be a wide-eyed zombie creature that can't talk and just walks around giving you weird looks! Dogs run from him. Children cry in terror. So as race director, Marie needed a strategy to handle this situation.

At this year's race I was quite successful as we didn't lose a single aid station volunteer to Charles' stares. And not a single child started crying!! A few children did get wide-eyed when they saw him in the afternoon, but Erich and I were able to talk with them and convince them that Charles wasn't real . . . only an actor 'playing the part' of a zombie as entertainment for the race!

Unfortunately I didn't get many pictures of Charles. Every time he finished a loop my job was to get him his stuff and get him back out running just as fast as possible so I didn't take pictures during his lap transitions. (Quite frankly that's probably a good thing . . . there are children that read this blog and I wouldn't want to scare them!) But here are two shots of Charles that I can post . . . he almost looks human in these two!

First lap . . . Charles hasn't transformed yet.

Charles with Fred 'Doom" Dummar about lap 4. Transformation underway.

Weymouth is a NC state park near Southern Pines and must have been an experimental forest where agronomists and biologist were secretly trying to bred a variety of pine trees to develop gnarly roots that would stay near the surface of the soil and even above. Not sure exactly why they were doing this . . . probably it was some tactic to be used against the Soviet Union during the cold war.

Eventual winner, Tomasz Kochanowicz, in an easy section where the roots weren't hiding.

Just trying to walk the trail during daylight is a risky venture . . . the roots hide in pine straw and wait for the unsuspecting human to walk by. Then . . . they somehow jump to the surface and trip their victim! And during the night, these roots are even more active! It takes a brave soul to even walk the paths at night . . . let alone try to run them!

Virtually every runner at Weymouth fell victim to these roots at least once during the race and I'm guessing the face-plant record at the race is north of 10 falls!

Uninformed people would think if a runner runs 62 miles they would lose weight for sure. Well, perhaps a few do, but this is another area of competition at Weymouth that most runner are not aware of. Marie, and aid station captains Susan Dummar and Doug 'Boogieman' Dawkins plot for months to develop ways to thwart the weight loss for their runners. Their goal is "No Runner Loses Weight!" If a runner doesn't gain weight, then Marie, Susan and Doug lose. But they win if a runner gains weight! So the game is ON! They fill the two aid stations with food to tempt runners using unfair tactics . . . things like constantly cooking hamburgers and grilled cheese sandwiches, fresh, hot pizza (no one can resist pizza!), lots of homemade soups and even grits (with ton's of butter for sure!!). And of course the usual high calorie diet supplements like gatoraide, potato chips, Mt Dew, Cokes, ginger ale, etc. You have to almost force them to give you just water! All day and all night they are trying to stuff food into the mouths of their runners. No doubt . . . Susan and Doug won the competition this year.

Susan Dummar's main aid-station. Complete with propane heaters too keep runners warm as they feast!

Decisions! Should we cook hamburgers or grilled cheese next? Everyone's got an opinion!

aka "Man-Camp" Doug Dawkins' hidaway aid-station

Bill Keene stumbling out of 'camp' full of grits!

This is DEFINITELY a race to stay away from!!!

And yes . . . like I said Charles did qualify for WS! As he finished lap 13 with one to go, he had an hour and 15 minutes to finish the last 4.5 miles. After about 58 miles of hard running, all those Weymouth roots and the cold temperatures I really didn't give Charles much of a chance for success. His lap times had slowly been creeping up and up.

But Charles had a secret weapon . . . Dan Gardiner! Dan is one heck of a runner (2009 Medoc marathon winner!) and one heck of a nice guy. Plus one heck of a motivator! And I should have realized if you take a motivated runner (Charles). And add a motivating, encouraging friend . . . you would get success. About 15 minutes before the 14 hour mark (Western States cut-off), Erich Chatham and I were plotting a strategy of how we were going to survive the trip back to Raleigh with Charles after he had missed the cut-off. We were scared.

But I looked up and there was Dan with a big smile on his face!!! He said Charles was just a minute or so behind! Unbelievable. Charles knocked that lap out is just about an hour! Talk about a motivated runner!

Unfortunately my camera battery died so I didn't get a picture of Charles finishing. Damn! But . . . for the record . . . he smiled!

Free at Last! Free at Last!

2012-01-10T15:57:00.000-08:00

Free at last! free at last! thank God Almighty, I am free at last!"

Today, Dr. Jones 'released' me! I can now return to running as I feel like I should! Sweet! Obviously he is pleased with my progress and so am I.

But realistically I haven't been able to do all he allowed me to do. He wasn't holding me back . . . I was. If I followed his plan to the max I could have been up to probably 10 miles or more. But I know I'm increasing as fast as my body thinks I should. And I'm fine with that!

This last weekend I ran 5.8 Medoc miles. And I could have done more I'm sure. But I held back. Dr Jones would have been prould of my restraint.

And quite frankly I've been real prould of him. He did keep me 'throdled back' some but his advice was spot on. Once he let me start running I started trying to push it some. When the pain came back he told me to back off to 'every other day' for my runs. EXACTLY what I needed. Some day I need a day';s rest. Some I need two days rest. But it's working great! Obviously, he did a great job as a surgeon. But he as also do a great job helping me with my recovery! He is almost as excited as I am for me to finally finish my first 100 miler!

So when will I be ready for another 100 mile attempt? I really don't know yet. Certainly not this spring and probably not in the fall. I'm thinking Umstead in 2013 may well be my target.

How cool will it be when I actuallly finish my very first 100 miler AFTER hip surgery!! Not sure if that as ever been done or not! But I'm pretty excited to give it a go!! Hopefully my hip will be "on board!"

Time to get serious!

2012-01-06T14:23:00.000-08:00

Oh how quickly things can change. We runners know that. Sweet, flat pine needle sections can quickly give way to brutal, steep, rock/rooty uphills that just kill you and suck the oxygen out of your lungs. As runners . . . we learn to just take it as it comes. We try to anticipate, but that doesn't always work. A good plan is a flexible plan.

Okay . . . my running just plain sucks right now. I can manage 3-4 miles . . . barely. And pace . . . what's that?? My speed is slowing down to the point where soon I will have to measure my mile speed in quarter-hours per mile not minutes.

Things aren't going to just magically get better by itself. I have to make some positive changes or else things will just continue on at their current trajectory . . I'll turn into a rock in four more years!!

So I decided to focus my efforts at getting better and remove all the 'stuff' that is getting in my way. I've decided to make some huge changes in my life so I can focus things on improving my running.

One thing getting between me and a 4 hour marathon is my hip. But realistically I've done all I need to do to remove it as an obstacle. Surgery and later physical therapy has gone well and the hip really is improving every day. Maybe not very fast . . .certainly not as fast as I want. But there is nothing to do except give it some time. So I will . . .

So . . . "Hip . . . you have until March 2nd to totally heal. Period. You better get with the program! Beginning March 3rd I'm starting my new training program and you better be on board!"

So what else is hindering my training you ask? Well . . . my job for one thing! 9 ours a day, five days a week! That is a lot of time . . . time I could be spending training. Sooooo . . . no more job! That's right. I'll just stop work so I can focus my efforts on running! I mean . . . it should be worth it! Right? Imaging the thrill of finally finishing a 100-miler! Doesn't that outweigh any joy I get from a silly paycheck? Maybe I'll get a little job that doesn't take quite so much time . . . something mindless (I should be able to excel at that!!!). Possible options include:

1) Walmart greeter,
2) statue polisher,
3) fly fishing guide (but that could be a problem 'cause I would have to be able to out-think a fish),
4) professional blogger (pay would suck),
5) career coach (anyone that would hire me would be even more stupid then me), or
6) professional backpacker (warm weather only!)

(I would love some additional ideas and options you think might be 'down my line!')

Sure . . . things will get tight financially! I'll just have to cut back on some things. But it will be worth it! Lot's if final plans to be made, but senior Olympics here I come!

2012 . . . another frickin' goal post!

2012-01-01T09:37:00.000-08:00

Okay . . . in a prior post I already re-capped my 2011 goals and my actual results. Not a stellar year by my measure, but I did okay considering.

But now it's 2012 and it's time to look forward and set some goals for the year. I really do believe we all need stated goals we work towards but I'm a little afraid to set too many running goals for 2012. I do have to be careful. I know. So . . . . I do hereby declare 2012 to officially be know as the "Year of Recovery." 2013 will be the "Year of Success" . . . more on that in late 2012!

Okay so here are my 2012 goals in no particular order . . . except #1.

1. Have fun running! That goal has been my #1 goal for the last several years and it will continue to be for as long as I can run. The FUN is the single thing that keeps me doing it. As soon as it stops being fun my motivation drop and my whole outlook on life sours. Seriously. So I'll strive for fun at any cost!

2. Run injury free all year. Okay . . . to some degree I can't control this goal so it really might not be the best goal. But I can influence being injury free by to trying to not progress too fast. Plus, I can sure lose some weight.

3. Run a marathon in May or before (but still abiding by goal #2). If my recovery goes according to plan, this should be a piece of cake! But I do want to keep myself focused on building up as long as my hip let's me.

4. Complete a run 50 miles before year end. Again, this should be fairly easy assuming my recovery continues on track. I really should make it a 100k . . . and maybe I will. But I need to keep this easy.

5. Host a new running event . . . one quite different for any other I've seen. I have some ideas and and the beginning of a plan. So we'll see . . . more to come on this one!

Okay . . . that's not too many goals and I do think they are realistic and achievable. 2012 does need to be fairly easy . . . especially since it is the 'Year of Recovery"!!

Also, I have a few New Years Resolutions . . .

Lose some weight . . . not going to go crazy here. If I dropped too much I would run so much faster . . . then I would have to re-name this blog. Way too much trouble.
Keep a positive, fun attitude . . . no matter what! There are things on the horizon that look like potentially cloudy skies. I have to force myself to remember it's the rain that makes the forests grow. Everything in life is an opportunity. And each of us CHOOSE how we react to everything that happens. Find a bright side always . . . and then focus on that!
Do more backpacking and fly fishing. I've sort of gotten away from these two loves of mine and that's a shame! I need to make time for these just like I make time for running. Heck . . . I can easily combine these!
Do more to help others. I can do more than I do today . . . and I should. And I will.
Do what I can to help get America back "on track." My focus will be to do what I can to bring term limits to our representatives . . . state and federal. In my eyes, congressmen always thinking about the polls and how to stay in office is a root cause of why America doesn't address such key issues as our crushing debt. True, the chances of my efforts being meaningful are very, very slim. But I can try. And I will.

Running again

2011-12-29T17:09:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had a really fun run! Not all that far and not all that fast! But a great time none the less.

Anytime I'm visiting my hometown, I HAVE to go for a run at Bay's Mountain Park. I've run those trails for probably 30 years or more and I still get excited as I drive up to the Welcome Center. The park has it all . . . sweet, flat fine-gravel roads, beautiful single track, views to kill for and hills . . . plenty of ups to suck your breath away and make your legs spaghetti!

This trip was especially nice because I was taking two beginning runners up there to run their first trails! That's right . . . two total trail virgins! My nephew, Andy Hicks and his wife Blake started running back in the spring and have become quite dedicated. But they have always stayed on the roads so this was going to be fun.

Blake has been sick for several weeks and had not run much . . . and I was glad! Not that she had been sick, but that I would have someone to walk some with me! We decided to just do a short one around the lake on Lakeside Trail . . . a beautiful and fairly gentle trail but enough hills to make it a good experience.

Temps were in the high 30s or low 40s . . . perfect for a run! Trails were in great shape . . . with just a little mud to make sure it was a genuine 'trail' experience.

We definitely didn't 'burn up' the trails . . . but that wasn't the plan or the point. We all just wanted to get out there and run some and walk when we needed to. And that is just what we did! Most enjoyable!

When we got back to the planetarium I jokingly suggested we continue on up to the observation platform, thinking Blake and Andy would say no way. How wrong I was! Blake said let's do it! And off we went. Maybe 1/2 mile up to the top but I tried running sections! Just what I needed! And the views from the top were super. I just love Bay's Mountain.

Off-topic Thoughts

2011-12-14T18:24:00.000-08:00

Okay . . . disclaimer up-front. I'm a Republican. Not a "dyed in the wool" one but most Republican basic beliefs and my personal ones tend to line up fairly well.

the less government the better
minimize regulations
decisions are best made as close to the individual voter as possible
If people make decisions they must live with the consequences of their decision.

But I sure got upset at this last weekend's Republican debates. Seems some folks suggest long-term consistent positions are a positive, and if someone has changed their positions it's bad. Both Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich were put to task for changing some of their past positions. Seems some believe folks should always be consistent.

But I believe consistency is not always a virtue! I'm suggesting that if someone is always consistent, it is a PROBLEM, not a virtue.

Can you imagine in baseball, if a batter always bunted, or if a pitcher always threw a curve ball what would happen? Their stay in the major league would be very, very short! Batters would quickly adjust to the curve ball pitcher and in just a few innings batters would just tee off on the guy!

Situations change. And different situations call for different responses and strategies. Change is not a four letter word.

Imagine a world where everyone stayed consistent and unyielding in their beliefs. No compromise . . . ever. Nothing would ever be settled. Republicans would just always say 'No new taxes!' and Democrats would never consider significant reductions in the size and scope of government. Republicans . . . . no revenue increases and Democrats . . . no spending cuts. Stalemate. And things would just continue to get worse and worse.

Oh . . . wait a minute! That is EXACTLY what is happening today.

Republicans . . . sometimes a tax increase may be okay. A minor increase in taxes to super high-income individuals won't halt economic growth. These folks can still get by. And maybe . . . just maybe . . . to pull America out of the huge deficit we're in we may need to ALL PAY A LITTLE MORE TAX! Not forever. But maybe for a few years, we do.

Democrats . . . we've GOT to HUGELY reduce the size of our government and our regulations. Sure groups of people will be hurt and they will protest and complain loudly. But America is spending WAY too much. And if we do raise taxes some, that money has to pay off our debts. NOT MORE SPENDING!

We all probably know in our hearts we have to 1) reduce our spending, AND 2) increase our revenues. BOTH! PERIOD. So get over it and start addressing the problem.

Our elected officials have to learn to compromise and NOT always be consistent. Things that may make sense when our economy is growing and vibrant just don't make sense when times get tough.

I really believe that the major factor influencing Americas politicians . . . Republican and Democrat . . . is striving to get re-elected. Make the voters happy and you're re-elected. We need to remove that as a possibility so our elected officials can focus on what is good for America and not what will get them elected again. Term limits are mandatory but will be hard to make happen. Not sure it that is realistic or how to really get that started. This has been talked about for years and years and nothing ever happens . . . except more talk.

But in the mean time, it's okay to change your thinking on things.

I honestly agree with Republicans that our real problem is WAY too much government spending. When you take it program by program it's hard to say no. Health care for everyone . . . sounds good! Medicare and Medicaid . . . fantastic And this list goes on and on! Quite frankly it would be nice to give everyone in America a new Lexus! But we have to be realistic.

So many American look to the government to take care of them, rather then take care of themselves. There is a feeling of entitlement . . . that they DESERVE unlimited unemployment, etc. They are owed!

So to stop or cut these programs back will make folks MAD. Lots of fussing and complaining! And if a politician is worried about getting re-elected, they will cave. Give the people what they want. But we've got to cut back . . . dramatically.

I'm a believer in going to each government agency and saying . . . your funds are cut 30%. YOU figure out how to best fulfill your agency's mission with the new level of funding. Each agency will figure it out! Maybe it's not an across the board 30% . . . maybe it varies agency by agency, but the cuts should be large. And these cuts are not just one-year cuts . . . they are long term cuts.

I wouldn't have said many of these things a few years ago. But I'm changing my mind. Our situation has changed and my positions have migrated in response to the new environment. So I'm not consistent. THANK GOD!

It's all about YOU! And me!

2011-12-10T17:57:00.000-08:00

I've got to admit, I'm somewhat torn about who this blog is for.

When I write stuff, I've got to admit I'm usually thinking about trying to make reading this enjoyable for you, my 5 readers! I know there are quite a few folks that read my drubbings . . . I can see the web stats. And I really do love it whenever anyone leave a comment. (Quite frankly it just makes my day!) Hopefully I can make you smile! Or if I really "hit it out of the park" I'll make you laugh out loud! But that doesn't happen much.

No . . . I'll settle for just entertaining you a little. I know I'm not a talented writer, but I do get a kick out of writing this blog. I try to keep my focus on running and running related topics. But not always. Sometimes I just ramble off course.

But I'm finding there are time I write this blog solely for me. Selfishly. Just to express whatever it is I'm feeling. Reader be damned! Like my last post about my excitement about being able to run again. Not funny. Not entertaining. Just my real feeling about finally being able to again do what I love.

I don't apologize for this. And I'm guessing you'll continue to see both kinds of blog posts from me. Some may be somewhat entertaining. Some may be totally boring. Bottomline: You get what you pay for!!

So happy!

2011-12-08T17:39:00.000-08:00

Saw Dr. Jones, my hip surgeon, today and he was really please with were I was. Jeff Miller, my PT, got me well along and basically strength and mobility were at 100% thanks to Jeff.

Dr Jones told me if I were 25 he would turn me loose . . . but since I'm 62 he thinks I need to go forward more slowly. Start with a .5 mile run. Then add a minute each day (if I can!). Any pain I stop. Period.

Today I ran my first easy 1/2 mile in 5:30 after a 1/2 mile warm up walking. No pain whatsoever! Sooooooo Happy! I promise to keep within Dr. Jones' limits . . . but I'm running again!

Top 10 advantages to not running . . .

2011-12-06T17:15:00.000-08:00

Okay . . . been thinking about this! The top 10 advantages to not running . . .

10. I've cut in half the amount of washing I do each week!

9. No race entry fees to pay!

8. I get to eat a 'real' lunch each day rather then either Subway or Starkist Lunch-To-Go Tuna.

7. Not having to listen to all the bad jokes told at the Y every day!

6. No travel expenses for a race!

5. No running shoes purchases in months! My shoes may be dry rotting, but they aren't wearing out!!

4. My gel supply hasn't need to be replenished since June!

3. My resting heart rate no longer freaks out my doctor!

2. It doesn't matter that I haven't moved all my summer running clothes out to make room for my warmer winter clothes.

And finally . . .

1. When I get in my car to go home, it doesn't have that smell of sweaty running clothes that have had all afternoon to 'ripen!'

So with all these great reason to be happy not running, why do I miss running so much?

Hopefully . . . this Thursday my doctor will tell me I'm okay to start running again! I've got my fingers crossed!

Ahhhh . . . I can smell those sweaty clothes in the car already!

Things are changing. And change is good . . . right?

2011-11-25T12:59:00.000-08:00

Okay . . . it seems this blog is no longer about running. I wish it were. But it's not. So if running is what you want to read about, just stop now!

No . . . this blog is slowing becoming an old man's 'whinner's blog' of little medical issues that really don't amount to much and are only really important to the person it's happening to. But since THAT person is me . . . well . . . the blog just has to adjust some.

I'm guessing in another month or so I'll be branching into a whole new line of posts. A few topics are already on my list to discuss:

Prune juice (the natural approach) vs a laxative from CVS.
Magnifiers, big print books, Kindles . . . what are your options when you need to read.
Secrets on how to pass a driver's test when you're a senior citizen.
Planning for Medicare.
How to remember where you put your list of things you wanted to remember.
Knitting and quilting . . . men can do it too.
Why are all these people passing me when I drive?
Soft foods

This should really be exciting. Stay tuned!

Hopefully in a few more weeks I can start back with my running theme . . . but for now . . . I'm whining!

The Hip

Houston . . . we have progress . . . just not so much of it.

Things ARE getting better but progress is slow at best. Up until today my furthest walk has been ~ 2 1/2 miles and that felt pretty good. And I've done that twice. But the last two days I've stopped my walk at about 1/2 mile. It was hurting and just not right . . . so I quit. I could easily pushed through the pain . . . it really wasn't all that much. Even the end of a marathon hurts way more. But it just doesn't feel like something I should 'push through.' So I quit. Twice.

But today was a new day. A totally beautiful morning and my hip felt good so decided to try it again. And the result . . . a new 'comeback' time and distance record! That's right, friends and neighbors! 5k in a few minutes UNDER one hour! Whoaaaa! And the pain never changed from when I started until I finished! Encouraging!

My hip's range of motion is just about back to normal but there are a few positions I get into and things I do that just plain hurt! For instance sometimes my hip just plain locks up. And I have to carefully manipulate it a little to get it working again. Another example: riding a bike kills me. Not the down-stroke but as the pedal comes back up!! Doesn't matter what resistance level I use. WTF??? That's just plain crazy! But it's real! This REALLY hurts!

My next doctor's visit is in early December. And we'll be talking about just what I should do when there is pain. Do I back off / stop doing whatever it is I'm doing? Or do I carefully push on through the pain? I can do either . . . I just don't want to do the wrong thing and screw up my recovery.

But for right now . . . running is out of the question . . . for sure.

The Kidney Stones

We finally have all the information back regarding my kidney stones so I went to my Rocky Mount urologist to determine some plan of action. Just sitting around waiting for another stone to pass seems like not such a good plan when you consider:

I live alone in a very rural place with not many folks around full time . . . so I have to drive . . . can't get anyone else,
It's about a 40 minute drive to the nearest hospital,
Of the three stones that have passed, one took 2 days to make the trip, one only about 4 hours and one stopped 3/4 of the way and just got stuck,
I guess I'm just a wimp when it comes to pain, and
I've got maybe 7 - 9 more stones just waiting for their chance to break out and make their own journey to sunlight!

My urologist consulted with all the doctors in his office and here is what they collectively said:

The analysis of the stones I passed indicates these are not a type of stone that will break up if they try ultra sound blasting (lithotripsy) again.
I have a huge prostate . . . so frickin' big it makes stone removal from my kidney REALLY, REALLY hard. They really don't think going up 'that way' to the kidney is a viable option.
The other option is to go in through my side/back with something like an arthroscope, get to the kidney and get those frickin' stones. But they are afraid to try it that way. It seems all my stones are in one little group in my left kidney. Really high up. And right up against my spleen and they think that is risky and tricky approach.

So, bottom-line, they have referred me to a doctor at Duke. December 19th is my appointment.

Now aren't you glad you wasted your time reading this???? :-)

Too much or too little , , ,

2011-11-16T10:45:00.000-08:00

Just a quick little update.

My hip doctor told me that . . .

once I started walking (November 2nd) I should initially walk no more the 1/2 mile. Fine. So far, so good.
when I add distance I should add no more the 10% at a time.

He didn't tell me . . .

How many times a day I should walk the 1/2 mile.
How long of a break I need between these 1/2 mile walks
how often I could add distance . . . every walk? every day? every week?

As a good patient how am I supposed to know these things?? :-)

So if he meant 1 walk per day and increases 10% per week, today I should have walked .61 miles.
But if he meant 1 walk per day and increase 10% per day, today I should have walked 1.9 miles.
But if 2 walks per day was okay and add 10% to every walk, today I should have walked 7.93 miles.

Well, in my confusion today I walked 2 miles.

What am I? A frickin' mind reader? So did I walk too much or too little? I can't read his mind!! (And I won't call!!! :-) ) I'm thinking that maybe I should step it up!

My Next Target

2011-11-12T06:42:00.000-08:00

Okay . . . do you know who this guy is?

If you are an ultra runner in North Carolina you will probably recognize this as Tom Herbst, a long term ultra runner and member of the Mangum Track Club from Fayetteville, NC. But . . . to me . . . Tom is my competition . . . my next victim!

In truth, Tom is one really nice guy and one hell of an ultra runner with more ultra runs under his belt "then Carter has Liver Pills." This picture was taken at last year's Umstead 100 where Tom had an unsuccessful attempt at yet another 100 miler. I only mention this DNF because the only reason Tom wasn't successful was because he had a nagging hip issue. That's right! Hip problem!

I saw Tom several times since April and his hip continued to be a frustrating, nagging injury. Months later I posted on either this blog or on Facebook about my 'weird' hip problem that just wasn't improving. It was Tom who told me that he thought I likely had a torn labrum and suggested that I read up on a torn labrum to see if I thought this made sense as my hip problem.

After a few days of internet investigation I was certain that Tom was correct! (and it turns out he was!) Tom was experiencing somewhat similar symptoms and had surgery scheduled in October. Tom had had an MRI which shoued a significantly torn labrum. But when the doctor when in . . . SURPRISE!! Tom's labrum was 100% fine . . . no damage at all. BUT it turns out he had a much more difficult problem. Tom had developed a bone spur on the head of his femur and that bone growth had torn up the cartilage on the inside the hip socket (acetabulum). Post surgery Tom was on crutches for ~6 weeks . . . 4 weeks with no weight-bearing. As a result of his extensive recovery period, Tom and I actually started walking within a week of so of each other!

It was really great having someone who REALLY understood what I was going through and he was great all through my process from initial doctor's visit to post surgery rehab. It was great to have someone that was just a few weeks ahead of me to help me understand and deal with what I would soon be facing.

Stephen Lilly and Tom Herbst finishing the 2010 Medoc Meltdown 50k

Bottomline: Tom is a great guy. But that really doesn't matter now. No . . . Tom and I have decided to have a spring Geezer's Race where he and I will compete head-to-head to see which one of us can go the farthest distance. Not a time event but a distance event! We haven't firmed up exactly which race we'll use . . . guess we'll both have to see how our rehabs are going before we firm up the competition. The bet is a cold beer and you can bet whoever wins will make the VERY, VERY most out of the ceremony!

But I'm concerned . . . because in Tom's first week of walking he completed a 4.5 mile walk at Weymouth Woods!! My doctor is insistent that I walk no more then .5 miles right now . . . and that is about all I feel like I can complete. So Tom is definitely in the lead today.

So right now I'm focused on how I'm going to beat this young rascal at this ultra game! No way I can let him get these braggin' rights!

Another boring update!

2011-11-10T15:56:00.000-08:00

Smokin' !!!!!

.58 miles today! And my walking pace was pretty good . . . around 18:30 pace! Woo Hoo!!

This week I did visit my doctor. I was concerned that I didn't have a pain pill for two weeks . . . but when I started walking and began physical therapy, my pain level increased and hadn't gotten any better. I was concerned that maybe during my kidney stone experience I had messed up my hip.

Dr. Jones listened and then got some x-rays. Bottomline: everything looks good. I just need to show more patience. One thing he showed me really blew my mind . . . a before and after view of my femur head. It really amazed me how much bone he had removed . . . bone that was causing the labrum tear.

He wants me to keep after PT without pushing through sharp pain. Just brush up against the pain. Show patience. He reminded me I had big surgery. He really did a whole lot of repair and correction and it would all take time to heal. Pain may continue up to 6 weeks post surgery and possibly even more.

So I will show more patience.

.58 miles sure isn't very far. But quite frankly it was all I needed to do.

So when will I be able to resume running? Good question! I really am not sure. But I'm pretty sure it will be awhile!

Patience!! Patience!! Close you're eyes! Take a deep breath . . . exhale slowly . . . relax . . . it will come . . .

Quick update . . .

2011-11-02T17:09:00.000-07:00

Quick update -

Passed another kidney stone this week. Small little 'fella and didn't cause all that much pain. But I have about twelve more of his big brothers just waiting. I've got to address this. Waiting is just not okay.
Hip doing really well. Get to start walking tomorrow! And I get to drive! Big day!

Overall . . . things are really, really good. Just can't wait to start training again.

Looks like Tom Herbst has a couple of days head start on me. Tom had his hip surgery about 6 weeks ago . . . something a little more serious then mine. But Tom has completed several 100 milers . . . plus he is way younger then me! But I'm still willing to spot him these advantages . . . I'm just looking at this as an even start.

While we haven't decided on a race yet, we plan to have a spring competition. Most miles completed will win! I can taste my prize beer already! Tom better make sure its really, really cold!

One Hip Report

2011-10-30T17:32:00.000-07:00

Okay . . . it's been a totally crazy 12 days since my hip surgery . . .

Surgery was Wednesday, October 19th. Coming home I was nauseous but that only lasted maybe 2 hours.
Post surgery, I didn't need any pain pills. I did take one Thursday morning just to see what it felt like. Very minimal pain. Biggest problem was getting my muscles used to crutches. The first week I couldn't put any weight on my hip. Very hard getting around and carrying stuff. Plus, I had a strict 90° rule . . . I couldn't bend my hip to body angle less then this. This was another pain! Exercise prescribed: toe touches and leg lifts. Leg lifts hurt as he had 'released' my hip flexor tendon (released = cut on purpose!)
Really early Saturday morning I started passing two kidney stones. Put in the hospital. Sunday afternoon I finally passed one, but doctors determined my kidneys were getting at risk and so on Monday morning I had the remaining stone surgically removed. A really, really tough three days. Back home Tuesday.
Had my post-op meeting with my hip surgeon Thursday. Everything looked fine and I could start partial weight-bearing. Found out the 90° rule would last for 4 weeks. Plus, I couldn't drive for another week! That sucked! I have the order to start physical therapy but I can't get there until I start driving . . . first session scheduled for the Friday after I can drive.
Started feeling actual pain from my hip! WTF! Over a week post-surgery and pain starts??
Saturday, I took two crutching excursions one about 300 yards down the hill and then back. The second about 300 yards the other direction. but Saturday night I had to take a pain pill to sleep.

Okay . . . I can feel my hip range of motion getting smaller and smaller and it's sort of like a cartilage tear in my knee . . . almost 'locking up' at times and feels like its almost dislocated. And it all started with partial weight-bearing. I am convinced I am not doing more then the doctor wanted me to do . . . I'm not pushing any limits he set.

Took it fairly easy today (Sunday) but probably went almost as far. For every other surgery I've had the key to reducing pain was exercise . . . so that is what I plan to do.

WTF?

2011-10-25T16:43:00.000-07:00

I was doing great after my hip surgery. Staying on my crutches was a pain but not all that bad. Went to bed Friday night and slept good. Woke up at about 4am and needed to pee. Back to bed and I started thinking that that piss was different somehow!

Out of 1,000s of pisses it was odd I thought this one was unusual. Then . . . from zero to 10 on the pain scale in 5 seconds flat. What the hell was going on? But I had it figured it out in 10 more seconds . . . I was passing my first kidney stone!

I've know I've had a significant number of these jewels for several years. I've even gone to the hospital and had a lithotripsy to try and bust these up into tiny pieces that should pass easily. That didn't work at all. So we (meaning my Urologist and I) were just watching these tiny stones. WTF? What did he thing these mini-atomic bombs were going to do? And I learned that my Doc . . . well . . . I now understand he didn't have too much to lose in this waiting game!

Now I found myself in a pickle!

I live 30 minutes from the nearest hospital,
I live alone
I couldn't drive my car
I couldn't walk without crutches
I really don't know my neighbors very well

Damn! Deep crap!

I called Connie and she said she was coming up to the lake and that if it 'got bad' I should just call 911. I hung up and decided to wait for Connie. That lasted all of 30 seconds and I knew I had only one choice . . . call 911.

I crutched around trying to get some shorts on . . . not easy to do with my hip! Plus I needed to find some pain pills! Finally, I just laid down in a little ball on the sofa and waited. 10 minutes and a knock on my door and the EMTs were here! . . . I could hardly answer their questions. On the way to the hospital in Roanoke Rapids the EMTs gave me morphine for the pain . . . no help at all! Nothing!

I really don't remember much of the rest of Saturday and Saturday night. When the stones started moving I was out of my mind in pain. (Yes . . . a CAT scan showed there were two medium to small sized stones moving.) Then the stone would stop moving and relief would come fairly quickly. I was pumped full of some high-powered pain relievers, but in all honestly they seemed to do little good.

And they wanted me to drink water like I never had before to try to help the little buggers along. This continued all day long and all Saturday night / Sunday morning. Folks - these weren't big stones . . . just 3-4 mm and they made a 100% baby out of me. I cried, I yelled, I cussed . . . nothing helped.

Bad periods lasted 3-5 hours. Then an hour or two break and then start over!

By mid day Sunday things still continued on unchanged but the blood tests were showing a rapid decline in my kidney function and the doctors were concerned. The only answer was they had to go and get the stones.

You don't want to know how they actually do that. (Hint: they don't cut you skin . . . I'll leave it at that!) My only questions involved making sure I was going to be totally asleep the whole time!

Sunday night I finally passed one of the two stones and I was excited! Maybe I could avoid the surgery! I drank glass after glass of water with renewed passion. But this last little dude was not coming out!

So Monday morning I was rolled into the operating room . . . and the next thing I knew I was being rolled into recovery. I saw my doctor in the recovery and he told me he had been successful in getting the stone (there was about a 10% chance we would not be able to and we would go to Plan C. And Plan C is way worse then Plan B with is worse then Plan A. But luckily Plan C wasn't needed. The relief from the stones was immediate but in it's place were new instruments of pain. But none hurt anywhere near as bad as those stones!

Here is the little nasty sucker I passed Sunday night. Looks innocent enough!

Came home Tuesday and still having pain, but it is sooooo much better I'm almost giggling at it!

I've never claimed to be able to stand pain well . . . but I didn't think I was as bad as I was. Those two little bitty stones kicked me butt like nothing ever has! EVER! If it had been a 100 miler I could have just quit. But there was no DNF at the Kidney Stone 100. You have to finish. Period.

My daughter has passed several stones and she says they hurt really bad! Hurt hell! They are ungodly! She must be able to handle way more pain then me!

And two surgeries in less then a week is just wrong.

So far so good . . .

2011-10-21T11:19:00.000-07:00

Well . . . the surgery is in the past! Thank God! Now it just healing and recovery.

This was a super stressful few days for me! First my son, Michael, was moving to Texas! That's right! He got a job with Booz Allen Hamilton in San Antonio and you guessed it . . . he had to leave the day of my surgery. He had planned to drive me to Raleigh Wednesday morning for the surgery, drive me back to the lake and then leave for Texas. But issues developed and he had to leave early, so Michael, his two dogs and I piled in his U-Haul van at 5:00 am and drove to Duke Hospital on Wake Forest so I could be there by 6:30.

Luckily, Charles West was able to be there during my surgery and drive me to Rocky Mount, where Connie took over and drove me to the Lake! Stressful, last minute changes! The hero of the day was Charles! For sure.

Surgery was scheduled for 8:30 and I guess we started on time. I just remember the recovery room and talking with my doctor there. He told me things were pretty much as he expected based on the MRI . . . he repaired and then detached the labrum, sanded off both the hip socket and the hip ball then reattached the labrum. He 'released the hip flexor tendon (cut) and repaired the two torn ligaments.

There was a surprise though . . . he found arthritis which was not what we wanted to see. Nothing he could do to correct arthritis and he can't be sure how much of my pain was coming from the torn labrum and how much from the arthritis. Guess we'll find out later!

The amazing thing is I've had very little pain. Took one pain pill the morning after surgery just to see what it felt like. None since and it is now Friday afternoon. They don't want me to bend my hip more the 90°. That is a problem! Anytime you sit down or stand up you flex more then the 90°. Plus, when you sit and type on a computer you bend forward more then the allowed 90°. Just hope this limitation doesn't last long!

Crutches suck! That's the only real soreness I've had . . . sore muscles from the frickin' crutches! So how do you carry a glass of wine or an open can of beer? Beats me!

I'm supposed to be doing leg lifts . . . but that is the only movement that really hurts so I'm holding off a few days on those. I'm sure I could drive fine . . . even slamming on the brakes. But no driving for a week at least.

So . . . all in all this has been quite easy so far.

Goals

2011-10-17T08:27:00.000-07:00

Okay . . . shit happens and any chance of me getting more races in during 2011 is nill. So if I haven't achieved my 2011 running goals yet they won't get done! So let's review . . .

Here were my 2011 running goals and my results

#1. Make sure 2011 is a year of FUN in my running.

I achieved this goal . . . and that is most important!

#2. Fastest Marathon - Over 5:30.

I haven't checked but I really don't need to. I know I did this.

#3. Number of Marathons or Ultras - Over 14. Average at least a marathon a month.

I did well through June . . . and did technically finish one more marathon at Hinson Lake in September. So I totaled 10 runs of marathon distance or longer . . . (plus Uwharrie 20 which to me feels like a marathon when I'm done!). Only one of these was a 'Lilley Special' run where I was the only competitor. I didn't count long training runs. Since it's just mid October I'm not feeling too bad about missing this goal. If the hip had not developed into a huge hindrance, 15-20 was in the bag.

#4. 75 miles or more at the Umstead 100.

Okay . . . a fail at Umstead. I only did 62.5 miles and I'm still disappointed in myself about that. Physical failures I can stand but Umstead was just a mental failure. But I did learn. And finished 75 miles at Goldsboro! And I honestly believe I could have finish the full 100 at Goldsboro had I not gotten some nasty blisters. So . . . since I'm keeping the score I'm going to declare success here . . .just not 100% success!

#5. Finish 50 miles at Boogie.

Success here. I was DFL by so far Doug almost had to declare me a 2012 finisher! But I did finish. Again, blisters did me in. Plus, I did have the beginnings of my hip issue. I didn't complain or write about it, but I was having problems there too, but I just didn't think it was anything other then one of those pains we get as we just get older!

#6. Get at least 4 folks to try an ultra for the first time.

I really can't say that I was the reason that Amber Shingleton, Jon Shingleton, Eric Ghilloni and Arthur Bennett finished an ultra. But I do think I helped some!! Actually two of there weren't in my original list! And I few that I had on my list are still there as targets! Beware folks! I'm coming after you!

So . . . with my hip surgery this Wednesday, I need to adjust goals so I can continue 2011 with some running goals. I'm NOT done for the year!

Remaining 2011 Goals

So that is my #1 remaining goal for 2011 . . . I will run again after surgery and before the stroke of midnight New Year's Eve. If I'm able to do that . . . . well . . .then 2011 will have been an awesome year for my running!
I was hoping to have a race with my friend Tom Herbst before the end of the year, and that still may happen. About 4 weeks ago Tom had a very similar surgery to what I'm going to have next week. Tom may be race ready but I'm afraid that may be a little too ambitious for my recovery.

Will I write to my blog between surgery and when I start running again? Not really sure. When I had knee surgery a couple of years ago I did do a daily blog on the recovery to running. But that was only a 10 period or so. Not sure I will this time since it will be a longer recovery period (at least 2 weeks on crutches and possibly more depending upon what they find when they stick the arthroscope in and turn on the light!)

If I do write something, I would strongly urge you to not read it. Zero chance it could even be close to interesting.

Eco-Training - close . . . but not perfect yet!

2011-09-28T07:10:00.000-07:00

If you are one of the 10s of people that actually take valuable time out of your day to read this blog, you may remember the new training program I have in development I am calling 'Eco-Training'. Essentially, with Eco-Training, you keep your long runs to an absolute minimum and back off your mid-week runs to eliminate trash miles. The motto is basically 'Low and Slow'.

Well, after this last weekend I have come to realize . . . 'Eco-Training' isn't perfect!    There are still a few, what I believe to be, minor 'tweaks' needed for perfection.

Realistically, few true innovations are perfect when first conceived and put into practice. Even Albert Einstein's theory of relativity wasn't perfect to start with. Few people realize that his original formula was E=m^2c. But things were just not working out for him using this formula.  Quite frankly, it was just a big dud! Nothing! Perfection came for 'Al' (as us friends like to call him) only when he realized he needed to just move the '^2' to the far right!   Then . . . magically . . . BANG!!! Perfection!

So 'Eco-Training' isn't perfect yet. A few minor adjustments still do need to be made.

My first test to the Eco-Training experiment was at Hinson Lake 24 hour Endurance Classic this last weekend and it was here where a few of the weaknesses of the original plan started coming to light.

First, 'Eco-Training' doesn't seem to help one build blazing speed.

I was disappointed that my lap times increased to a small degree. So I'm really not sure at this point what adjustments are needed to the Eco-Training plan to correct this.  I have determined three possible hypothesis to investigate . . .

Long runs and mid-week runs need to reduce even more to allow more time for those 'fast-twitch' muscles to be fully prepared, or
Training needs to be increased to better prepare those 'fast-twitch' muscles to get up to speed with the rest of your body, or
My lack of speed at Hinson Lake was actually within the normal range of performance fluctuation and no Eco-Training plan adjustment is really needed.

I have trouble believing it could even possibly be #2, but as a highly-trained scientist I need to keep my mind open here!

Secondly, my endurance could have been better.

Originally I had established 75 miles within the 24 hour period as a goal and would have considered 100k as an acceptable minimum. At Hinson Lake I completed 27 miles - falling just short of this minimum goal. True . . . 27 miles is VERY, VERY close to 62.5 miles (when you consider intergalactic distances) but a miss is still a miss!

Again, the same two possibilities exist and perhaps additional adjustments to the plan will be necessary.

Other Runner Input

Additionally, along with excited runner support from across the world, I have received suggestions for a few additional factors to consider in the Eco-Training plan.

Psyche Wimberly, the world renown ultra runnerette from the Asheville area suggested I begin testing the addition of mid-run naps into both the training and the target event itself. All I can say is "BRILLIANT!" Since I didn't want to spoil the scientific integrity of work I had already done, I chose NOT to incorporate Psyche's addition into the Hinson Lake run. But I do plan to add this to all future development and testing.
Diet and it's possible effects on performance was suggested as an addition by 'Dr.' Jim Plant, an innovative dietitian known around the world for his unique perspective on food and drink. I plan to have a number of special 'diet sessions' with 'Dr.' Plant (aka 'Jimbo') in order to get a fuller understanding of all the principals involved. Right now, I've only heard a few of his theories surrounding beer (specifically Yeungling beer), Spam, Vienna Sausages, jerky, bacon, cheeseburgers and a specific variety of cupcake know as a 'Shimmel cake' developed by Amy Schimmel another well-known ultra runner. (Incidentally, Amy just set the new World Record for mileage with a full leg brace . . . . and yes, she was fueled with her special cupcakes!) These foods and other 'Plantings' (as I like to call 'Dr.' Plant's suggestions) will be included in the grueling sessions we are planning. I have full confidence that with Jimbo's help there may be some very positive outcomes coming soon.
And I am thinking I should include rest during periods of 'non-exercise'. As we all know, training involves both the running 'work' as well as rest and recovery. So, to bolster the rest period effectiveness, I am planning to experiment with the use of crutches during the periods between running sessions. This should give one's body additional time to prepare for the next exercise-intensive running session.

All in all, I'm pretty sure we're on the right track. These 'tweaks' should provide us with additional data for analysis. As with all scientific endeavors, progress will be slow and careful . . . but the results should be well worth the wait.

Hinson Lake 24-hour Endurance Classic

2011-09-27T17:31:00.000-07:00

Hinson Lake 24 is still my favorite race . . . . this year I had even more fun then last year . . . but in very different ways.

Going in I had virtually NO expectations. I honestly hoped to finish five laps or so, The day before, as I was setting up, my hip started killing me so I questioned if I would be able to even finish two laps. Honestly.

But Saturday morning came and my hip felt pretty good. After 5 laps it did start tightening up and the pain started, but it was on and off. Really quite strange . . . for maybe 1/2 of a lap I would limp along at less then a stroll. But then . . . the pain would reduce for a little while! Then the cycle would repeat, though it if hurt more and more as time went on. I have not idea why the pain would come and go. Very strange.

But I did manage to limp through a marathon. My slowest marathon ever! BY FAR! But my spirits were high all day and I had a total BLAST!

But there are a number of things that make Hinson Lake special . . . and a few thing that made this year at Hinson special. Here are some of them . . . in no particulay order.

Ultrarunners are, for the most part, just incredible folks to be around. Warm, friendly, fun-loving and encourging are a few words that come to mind. To a degree, this is true of all runners . . . but you just have to spend some time at an event like Hinson Lake to see and feel the difference. Jim Plant said Hinson Lake feels like a family reunion and that is 'spot-on!' For some strange reason, I just feel very close to a large number of the folks . . . even though I really don't know them all that well nor do I really see them very much. But the feelings are real. There is a love out there amoung this group and newcomes are welcomed with open arms.
Tom Gabell and his family quitely put together a fabulous event. Things run smoothly. Seemingly low stress (from my perspective but I bet Tom has stress that he hides!!). Volunteers always make races and Hinson has excellent volunteers. Extremely supportive and understanding!
Two spectacular athletic performances this year that I knew about. First was Mike Morton finishing over 160 miles within the 24 hours. About three miles short of the North American record I believe. The second was Andrew Surrette . . . an 8 year old who had not signed up to run but just wanted to. No training at all. But some great genes! Drew finished just over a 50k . . . 21 laps or 31.92 miles! His mom tells me was 'a little sore the next day!!! :-) The picture above is Drew running with Naresh Kumar and Joey Anderson.
I love to see people break through limits! PRs are great but they focus on time. I especially love to see people go further then they have ever gone before. That first time they finish a 10k or a marathon, etc. At Hinson Lake we had a ton of folks that busted through their previous longest runs: Amber Shingleton, Jon Shingleton, Brandie Ghiloni, Eric Ghiloni, Margaret Bentley, Arthur Bennett, Alane Floyd, Liz Fuson, Amy Surrette, Drew Surrette, Kayla Surrette, Andy Surrette, John Adamof, Chad Wollenberg, and I'm sure I'm missing or forgetting many others.
Having a 1.5 mile loop in a 24-hour event is fantastic. You just keep telling yourself you can do 'just one more loop' and then another. All in an enviornment where other runners just 'suck you along' with words of encouragement. You think you're done . . . but you rest a few minutes and you stary thinking "Another lap is ONLY 1.5 miles . . . I can do THAT!" And you cam!

The run itself was fairly uneventful. Race started at 8am. There had been rain the afternoon before and during the night, but it pretty much ended by race time. But MAN . . . was the humidity level high! Temps were comfortable but you almost sweated just standing still.

I did my usual run / walk for maybe 10 miles. Then the walking started getting longer and longer. Around my 12th lap I was running some and the ol' hip just gave way . . . not really 'locking up' but more just not able to support any weight. Then, a little later, while running again the same thing happened. So from that point on I just walked.

We were very lucky we had the rain as it made the hill just after the bridge easy to negotiate. Last year it was like running in the loose dry sand high on a beach. This year the footing was easy.

Liz Fuson ready for Mt Hinson.

Only cool thing I ran into was the biggest copperhead I've ever seen crossing the trail. He was probably 3+ feet long and 2 inches wide at his widest. Beautiful. I stopped just to make sure no one hurt him . . . and he just crawled off, minding his own business.

Stopping at 18 laps was an easy decision. Hip was hurting pretty bad. Plus, everyone from RMEC had bailed when they heard another storm was coming. So I hung around the shelter for awhile with Joey Anderson and then decided to go take a nap. I had ever intention doing a few more laps when I woke up, but that was not to be as the hip had other ideas. So about 2 am I started counting laps. What a ton of fun! The madhouse of people from Saturday had dwindled to a small but steady stream of runners all night long. Saw so many people achieving there goals . . . a bunch of 100 milers, 62 miles, 75 miles, etc. Saw RayK finish his second 100 miler in as many weeks! Saw Bill Keene finish another 100! And saw Mike Morton rock the running world with his 163.9 miles completed in 24 hours. Not quite a North American record . . . but close . . . the second best all time!

Here a a few pictures:

Doug 'Boogieman' Dawkins just before the 8 am finish.

Sharon Scott at the start.

RayK finishing his second 100 miles run in as many weeks! Amazing!

Denise Martin saving another runner!!

Mike Morton maybe 3 minutes after he finished!

Tom Gabell, RD, presenting Mike with his award! Amazing!

Totally Ready for Hinson Lake 24

2011-09-18T11:33:00.000-07:00

Ever since my Boogie 50 finish this June, I've been carefully planning and training for Hinson Lake this year. I know a lot of you all were not sure what was going on . . . no races for me since mid June. No races, very few posts . . . all part of a carefully laid out and executed plan for a fantastic Hinson Lake performance!

The secret is I have been following a totally new training plan in preparation for this endurance event. One that might seem odd to some and stupid to others. But let's just wait and see how this training experiment turns out! "The proof is in the pudding!"

Going back to my Boogie race / walk . . . many of you thought the blisters were the reason for my slow time and actually I tried to make you BELIEVE that was the case! But Boogie was really just part of the plan! The key to solid endurance running is pacing and dealing with the mental side of a challenging run. So Boogie was really a carefully planned race and I intentionally developed the blisters on the bottom of my forefoot for two reasons: 1) character training . . . learning to deal with the pain and suffering involved when things just do go well, and 2) I had to figure out a way to keep me from going too fast! The blister idea was brilliant, if I do say so myself. Few of you would have ever even thought of this tactic and fewer still would have executed it to the degree I was able to! So Boogie wasn't the disaster you thought . . . it was just part of the plan.

Now my new training plan is equally innovative and has required a significant amount of "out of the box" thinking again! But really the plan is quite simple and is based on the premise that "less is more!"

Now I've got to admit that this as been an excruciating plan to actually execute. In the past I have kept my mileage fairly high and tried to race a marathon or further every other weekend or so. But that needed to change, it just wasn't working for me any more. My times were just getting slower and slower. I needed a totally new and innovative approach to my training. Hence . . . my new plan which I am calling "Eco-training!"

Eco-training (soon to be patented) centers around not wasting needless energy by doing too much running or exercise. Save all that for the "focus event" . . . in this case, Hinson Lake 24.

First and key to Eco-running . . . long runs are a total waste of effort, all they do is make you tired and sometimes sore. So with Eco-running, I've minimize my long runs leading up to Hinson Lake. With effort, I've managed to keep all my long runs under 6 miles. In total I've only run 4 times over 5 miles since mid June! That's right! Think of the energy I've saved! This is not insignificant!
Mid-week miles are really just trash miles and no one needs many trash miles. So with my new Eco-training, I've eliminated these from my weekly plan. Since Boogie, I have run no more then 2 times per week and many weeks only ONCE ! Eliminating all trash! Another hallmark of this brilliant plan.

Okay . . . I know some of you are already questioning the wisdom of this, but remember what I said . . . the proof will be in the pudding!

So my training is complete and it time to start the "tapering phase" of my Eco-training for next Saturday's race. But enthusiasm may have gotten the better of me and I'm hoping I didn't do too much today: 5.43 miles at a 11:17 pace . . . a solid 1 hour and one minute of quality training. I just hope that wasn't too much . . .

Monday, I'm having an MRI and a follow-up visit with my doctor mid-week just to make sure everything is in perfect condition for my PR effort! I should be perfect come race day! Then . . . I can apply for my patent.

One bad apple . . .

2011-08-25T06:40:00.000-07:00

Forgive me for this post. I shouldn't write anything when I'm mad.

As many of you may know, this last weekend Cam Kelly and I hosted the Medoc Meltdown 50k . . . a Fat Ass run around Medoc Mountain State Park. We had 61 sign up and 51 showed up to run . . . our biggest group yet.

Cam and I intentionally try to encourage everyone to come out and run. You don't have to try the full 50k. The shortest loop is about 3.3 miles and if that's all someone want to run . . . hey . . . we're happy and glad they chose to come out and spend some time with us! We get several folks every year that are trying trail running for the very first time! I love it!

For simplification sake we posted the Medoc Meltdown results on the Rocky Mount Endurance Club (RMEC) web site. We did this for two reasons . . . 1) next year the Meltdown will be hosted by RMEC and 2) it may bring a few new people to the RMEC club site.

Now, don't get me wrong . . . the Meltdown is a 50k ultra event and I hope more and more folks choose to try the longer distance. I love ultrarunning and I love ultra runners! But we're happy to have any runner or walker show up. And we'll stay until the last person finishes . . . no time cut-off.

As a group, ultra runners are the most supportive, encouraging folks I've ever been around. And there is inspiration surrounding each and every person. Each runner has their own stories of their own challenges and frustrations. These stories are shared as inspirations to everyone else. NEVER have I been made to feel like a second-class runner because I'm so slow. Ultra runners do nothing but encourage and celebrate my little accomplishments with me. Never "look down their noses" at my slow times.

Guys like Rick Grey. Rick has finished more 100 mile runs then I have ultras! And he is always up near the front of the pack! But Rick is there at the finish of every event, cheering finishers . . . until the last one comes in. And at Boogie this year he even hung with me to try and help! That's right, Rick . . . walking with me at the end of the line! Encouraging every step of the way!

Or Laura MacLean. Laura wins races but then stays to cheer too! And unless you ask Laura you'll never know she won the frickin' race! That's just the way she is! Awesome person!

So maybe you can understand my frustration with a single 'bad apple' that has to make condescending remarks on the RMEC site about the club and runners that haven't tried an ultra. Why on earth would someone want to make comments like that? I just don't understand.

Most ultra runners would be telling folks "You can run an ultra if you try! It's not really as hard as it sounds!I''ll help you!"

NOT belittling folks who run less then ultra distances.

There . . . I feel a little better . . . .

Another 'whinning' blog . . . I suggest NOT reading this. Even I'm bored.

2011-08-06T15:50:00.000-07:00

I'm a frickin' moron! Actually . . a 'hypochondriac moron' to be exact!

Every day it's something else! A few common threads over time but basically I'm a mental train-wreck!

Monday - felt good and had a fun day running; 96°
Tuesday - another good day running; 98°
Wednesday - Took the day as a rest day; 100°
Thursday - suffered from heat and a hip that started hurting again; 95°; hip hurt all day and night.
Friday - okay run; hip was fine . . . zero pain; 90° But post run, my hip is starting to hurt again. But not bad.

So I decided to do two Medoc laps (about 17 miles) Saturday morning. As I left the house it started to rain! PERFECT day! Nice and cool! I totally love running in the rain!

I planned to meet 9 runners from Richmond, VA who were coming to the Medoc Trail Marathon this fall and wanted to check out Medoc trails. We met at the picnic shelter and at about 8:15 we headed out. And my hip felt great!

These guys and gals were much faster then me and after about 1 1/2 miles they went on, leaving me to poke along, splashing in the puddles! I did take a saw with me and did a little trail work along the way. But after passing the graveyard near Firetower, the hip started complaining. And by the time I got to the creek, it was just plain hurting!

Every time I walked, the horseflies attacked! And they were vicious! Never seen them this bad. Meltdown folks are going to love them!!

Coming back towards the shelter on Discover Loop, I saw a huge limb hanging in the trees. When I pulled it down it totally blocked the trail so I had to saw it into parts to clear the trail. All the while the horseflies were having a feast on me! Took 10-15 minutes to clear everything.

Then, about 1/4 mile later there was another tree down, totally blocking the trail! Just my luck! Another 20 minutes for the horseflies to have their way with me!

Finally I got back to the picnic shelter and I knew I was done! Damn hip was killing me,

Back at the house and it's getting worse and worse. And I really can't pinpoint where it hurts. It just hurts! Almost makes me nauseous.
____________________________________________________
Okay . . . it's a few hours and a second dose of ibuprofen later . . . the pain has eased. And I'm walking with just a little limp!

We'll see how she feels in the morning. If I have any hope of some marathons / ultras this fall I need at least 15 miles this weekend. Maybe the road will be easier then the trail. Don't worry . . . I'll do loops around the neighborhood assuming that I feel like trying it at all.
____________________________________________________
Now it's Sunday morning. And it's weird - almost no hip pain this morning!!! Yesterday I was suffering . . . couldn't move without pain. Now, one day later, I'm virtually pain free.

For the most part this is GREAT! Pain gone! But from another perspective it's not. No way I can go to see a doctor when my hip isn't hurting. I would feel like a fool (well . . . maybe even more like a fool then I normally feel!)

But even with the pain relief I don't think I'll run today.

Quick update . . .

2011-07-31T08:30:00.000-07:00

I promise I'm not dead!

Running has just not been happening much for me in the last several weeks. I had planned to sort of take a break . . . but not this much of a break!

Basically two issues: 1) lack of motivation due to heat / humidity and 2) hip issues.

The hip problem comes and goes . . . some days it hurts pretty bad. But other days, not so much. Very strange! But not bad enough to see a doctor yet. I thinking that probably some time off will help.

The heat / humidity issues are just killing everyone! But with my motivation lacking, I'm just not getting it done!

Hopefully "the broiler" has run it's course and things can get back to a more normal, miserably hot summer! No planned runs until Hinson Lake 24 and I'm not planning to do any preparation or training for it. I'll just run what feels good and see how far that takes me.

After Hinson, I'll get back into some sort of a training mode . . . who know . . . I might even actually follow some sort of plan! Have done that in several years!

In the mean time there is the Medoc Meltdown 50k and the Medoc Marathon to keep me occupied.

This is about runners!

2011-07-21T07:18:00.000-07:00

This morning as I was leaving for work I couldn't find my wallet. Now that's strange because every time I come home I'm very careful to put it on the counter right next to the door.

I looked all over the house, in the pants I was wearing yesterday, on my dresser. Even in the dresser drawers (thinking I might have knocked it off the top and it fell into a drawer). Checked in my car. Looked everywhere I could think of. No luck. So I headed out to work, trying to remember when I last had it. The best I could remember, the last time I had it was when I filled up for gas at Sheetz on my way home yesterday evening. I remembered my daughter calling me as I was filling up with gas and I was fumbling around with the phone, the gas pump handle and . . . yes . . . my wallet. I remember putting it on the roof of my car!

Oh Crap!!

When I got to Sheetz I ask if anyone had turned in a wallet and the lady checked and said they hadn't. So I decided to walk up the median of the highway to see if I could see my wallet . . . it had to have fallen off the rooftop fairly soon as I got up to speed.

I walked for maybe 1/3 mile. Nothing.

I tried to remember everything I had in my wallet. I was carring a little more cash then normal, my debit card and my credit card, driver's license, bank access card, and a bunch of other things that didn't really matter all that much. All gone!

To relieve the pain of the loss some, I did find a $20 bill!! Certainly not compensation for my loss, but it did ease the pain a little!

A little further down I spotted a $1 bill. Then . . .another $20. Guess I had my bad luck yesterday, but someone else had had some bad luck too! I knew I would be okay with my loss and I hoped whoever lost this would also be okay. These are tough time for so many people.

Further down the road I saw the sleeve that a NC Hunting / Fishing license comes with. Looked inside but nothing. Odd. Very Odd! Saw nothing else and went maybe 1 mile. So I crossed the lanes and headed back towards my car. Went maybe 1/4 mile and I saw another $1 bill. Then, I saw an REI membership card . . . with my name on it!

So probably all the money had been mine anyway! Little further I saw my Sam's Club card. Then my VISA!! Thank goodness! And soon there was my debit card! But that was it. Nothing else . . . and no wallet! So I decided to walk back again . . . I had to have missed the wallet itself!

Going back on the median I did find my fishing license, Food Lion MVP card and a few other things. But no wallet.

So I headed back towards my car. On my way back a car pulled over near me. The driver asked me if I was looking for something and I told him I was looking for my wallet. He asked where I was from and I told him Littleton, NC. He smiled a big smile and told me he had been jogging yesterday evening and had found my wallet! What are the chances! I am so lucky!

So this was about running after all! I followed him back to his house (about 4-5 miles away!) and got my wallet back! YESSSSS! There are a lot of honest people in the world . .. but this was a runner and I'm sure he would have spent a lot of time trying to find me. Runners would do that. Not everyone else would!

What a nice guy! He and I talked some and it seems his daughter goes the the daycare center near there and he and his buddy run there often. I told him about the Rocky Mount Endurance Club . . . I hope he will join the group!

Thank you Ronell Edmondson!

What a wuss!

2011-07-19T08:39:00.000-07:00

Okay . . . I've been backing off for a few weeks. Just a little rest brought on by some minor 'Boogie' issues . . . But I'm fine! Just resting some. But I'm blown away . . . I'm getting more folks coming to my blog each day then I get when I post something new! What is up with this?

I'm beginning to think the more I don't do, the more folks will like it!

I just wish the same principle would work in my running. Quite honestly I've found myself not looking forward to my runs. Actually dreading them is a better description. Just lacking motivation. Wanting to sleep on Sunday morning rather then go on my long run . . . even in the heat!. So a break seemed like a good course of action.

So since Boogie, my longest run has been about 10 miles . . . and another about 8 miles. Plus a few 3-6 milers during the week. Basically lots of rest!

So I should be feeling all recovered and ready to go! But that's not happening! Actually every day is a new physical issue! Crazy!

All last week my wrist hurt (wrist I injured at the Medoc Re-Run in November that still isn't 100%).
Sunday I was going to do a 16-17 miler at Medoc . . . but I got dizzy after a mile, walked for four miles hoping it would go away. And finally just quit.
Monday, my hip hurt. Really hurt. I was limping! No injury, I did nothing! It just started hurting!
Tuesday, still a little dizzy and the hip still hurts some . . . but way better.

So bottomline - I'm thinking I'm becoming a hypochondriac of major proportions!

There silly little 'nothings' just have to be in my head!

And we all know that runners are generally prone to hypochondriac-type mentality. Heck, listening to everyone at the start of a race you would think most of them had to be driven to the starting line by an ambulance! Everyone has been having 'issues' and their training has just hardly prepared them for the race. Most question if they will even be able to finish! But, of course, virtually everyone does finish . . . with great times too!

But this 'layoff' is arming me with a ton of new excuses for my poor performances! Another week or two and I'll be all set! Hinson Lake . . . why .. . I'll probably only get in 15 miles or so!

How to Train Fleas!

2011-06-18T13:08:00.000-07:00

When I was a young banker in Tennessee, I had the opportunity to hear a luncheon talk by the then head coach of the University of Tennessee football team, Bill Battle. At that time, Coach Battle was the youngest head football coach in the nation and lead the Volunteers to a 59-22-2 record while the head coach. Coach Battle was known as a really inspiring leader and field coach . . . but his recruiting skills were a little suspect.

Coach Battle started off telling everyone present he was going to teach us all something that probably no one in the room knew how to do but him. He was going to teach everyone how to train fleas!

He ask for a show of hands for everyone that already had learned this skill and not a person raised their hand. Coach Battle promised us this new skill would be a much more valuable skill then anyone would ever believe. And he was right!

To start the flea training process is really quite simple and you really only need two things: 1) a glass jar with a lid (like a Mason jar or a clean, mayonnaise jar), and 2) a bunch of fleas. New in East Tennessee we knew how to come up with an empty Mason jar but the coach never told us the best way to gather up a bunch of fleas. Anyway . . .

Training begins when you put the fleas in the jar, put the top on the jar, shake the jar up and the set it down on a table.

Believe me the fleas will be upset. And they'll want to get out of that jar and go find some nearby dog to jump on! These fleas will be jumping hard, trying to escape. A flea can jump over 7 inches in vertical height and 13 inches in horizontal length! These jars are only about 6 inches high. So when the flea jumps to escape he (or she as the case may be!) will bang his head on the jar top! I would imagine this would hurt! And every time the flea jumps . . . BANG against the jar top . . . more pain!

But eventually each flea, for one reason or another, won't jump their full 7 inches one time. They jump but just not as high and this time they don't hit the jar lid and thus no pain!

Now fleas probably aren't all that smart! But even a stupid flea can pretty quickly learn that if you jump as high as you can, it hurts. But it you jump just a tad less high, there is no pain! Simple!

So eventually, every flea is still inside the jar jumping hard, trying to escape . . . just not their full 7 inches! At this point you can take the top off the jar and the fleas, while continuing to jump, won't jump out of the jar!

Vol la! You have just trained the fleas!

Each flea is totally convinced he (or she!) is trying to escape just as hard as he can. But he's wrong! There WAS a barrier, but it's no longer there!

Obviously, Coach Battle was trying to tell us that the banking establishment would put barriers in front of each of us . . . maybe unintentional or maybe even intentional. But either way, we needed to keep trying just as hard as we can all the time.

Coach Battle warned each of us young banker to not become trained fleas. And I've tried to remember this lesson all my life. But I can't tell you how many times I've found that I had been trained and didn't even realize it!!. And I bet we all have. And maybe we've even trained a few fleas of our own!

Last night I just realized that I have been taking the easy way out in my training. Focusing on really long distances but avoiding the pain of interval and hill training. And I haven't been progressing. I've fallen into a complacency with my running and I have no one to blame but myself. I need to do better. Mediocre results are not a problem, but I should NOT be accepting my mediocre efforts.

But don't get me wrong. There are parts of my running where I am definitely NOT a trained flea. I have taken off the blinders about how far someone can run. I don't just run races where I'm pretty sure I can finish and do well in. I'm willing to try something that seems virtually impossible and where in all likelihood I will fail. And I've failed plenty! While a DNF is not a good thing, my friend Jim Plant tells me "any DNF is way better then a DNS." And he is right!

But I'm not happy with the fact that I'm a trained flea. And I'm going to work a little harder and be a little more varied in my running.

My challenge to each of you (and me too!) is to find out what areas in your life that you have become a trained flea. And then do something about it!

It's never too late for us to jump!

Boogie . . . Damn you Boogie!

2011-06-13T18:04:00.000-07:00

Boogie beat me again . . . damn it!

My training was good. The temperature forecasts were good. I knew the course well. And I was relaxed. This was going to be my breakthrough year at Boogie. I was ready!

Up to this year I had always done the Boogie Fun Run aka "the Baby Boogie" aka the "Boogie Marathon." And every year Boogie handed me my hat and said "Better luck next time, Sucker!" Nothing about Boogie fits with my running. Maybe that's why I love this race so much.

Anyway, after one poor finish after another I had the brilliant idea that if I couldn't do well in the marathon maybe I should step up to the "Full Boogie." Okay, I know it seems stupid to think if I can't do well running 26.2 miles maybe I'll do better running 50. But it seemed like a good idea at the time.

And I had a plan! I was going to walk virtually all of the first lap! In the past, one of the key reasons for my stumbles was the mid June temperatures and humidity combined with the Boogie hills. And it was 94° that afternoon. So with a 6 pm start there would be at least 2 hours of bad Boogie heat. So my plan was to conserve my energy in the heat and then spend it when it's cooler.

So . . . the race started.

But just before the start thunderstorms rolled in. Clouds covered the sun, thunder rolled and the temperatures started to cool. So cool compared to the afternoon heat I decided that I could go ahead and run lap 1. So I did. And soon we had some rain from the storm. Not a lot . . . just enough to wet everything down. And then the humidity went to 99.99%. Nothing could evaporate in this humidity. So every drop of water hung around. And every drop of sweat did too! Soon I felt like I was running in a hot shower. But I kept on running.

From the top of Bethel Hill, the start where everyone parks!

The Boogie race course starts at
the top of Bethel Hill and looks like a balloon on a string. The start is where the string is tied to the balloon. We run around the balloon (6 miles) then down the string (2 miles) and back up to the start/finish/main aid station for a 10 mile lap. Everyone parks on the road so your car can serve as your gear drop station. Awesome setup.

Looking down the other side towards the infamous Bethel Hill.

As we neared the main aid station at mile 6, I saw a bunch of kids with squirt guns soaking runners (as if they weren't already wet enough from their sweat!). But I had heard the kids plan, so I developed a plan of my own. At my car I had my own 'super-soaker' all loaded up and ready to go. Hiding it behind my back, I walked up the last of the hill to the kids. And then I sprang my surprise! No way they expected to get soaked by a runner . . . especially an old runner! Not sure who enjoyed this surprise the most, me or them!

But by the end of lap 1 was beginning to see the writing on the wall. I was roasting in my own juices! 40 miles to go and I was already medium rare! I knew I had to slow way down or I was going to be 'done' in 2 laps! And I had forgotten to take my Cool-off bandanna with me the first lap. So, with that now in place I completed lap 2 . . . slowing down some, but not near enough. Plus, I told my friend, Charles West I was starting to feel a hot-spot developing on my left forefoot. Walking up Bethel Hill I promised myself I would walk way more. 30 miles to go and I was medium-well already! Oh crap!

Luckily I had a secret weapon . . . or rather 2 secret weapons! Rick and Tammy Gray had promised to keep my company part of the way. Tammy joined me first and right off her bad luck multiplied! First I told her we would be mostly walking. Then . . . it was almost like World War 3 started! Thunder and lightning everywhere and the downpour came! Honestly it was more then a little scary. This sure didn't help the humidity any but I finally got my body temperature down to something comfortable. But it was too late . . . the damage had been done.

But Boogie wasn't going to let me get off that easy!

I noticed that 'hot-spot' I had felt lap 1 had gone away! And in it's place . . . thanks to all the rain, had now morphed into full-fledged blisters! Nice one, Boogie! Nice!

But there was one group of folks that was lovin' this weather . . . the frog population. Never in my life have a heard a more strange assortment of frog calls. It must have been a 'frog orgy' going on! I swear there even frogs that sounded like goats! At least these guys and gals were happy about things!

As Tammy and I passed the main aid station I considered changing shoes and socks . . . but since the weather was still threatening (though the rain had slowed) I opted to just keep going and wait to be sure the rain was over.

Next, Tammy handed me off to her husband Rick (who had been manning the main aid station all evening) for lap 4.

Now I hate to brag, but in these morning hours I really gave Rick a lesson in the 'Lilley-style' of ultrarunning . . . er ultrawalking! Rick runs 100 mile runs like they're nothing. He has run 5ks in the 14 minute range, sub 30 10k and 2:30 marathons! Imagine the fun he had on a slow walk with me in the rain! But to give Rick credit, he adapted well! Thanks Rick! You and your wife kept me going. I likely would have dropped without your support!

Before Rick and I started I had a rare treat! I got to be there when my friend Laura MacLean finished her 50 . . . first place female! I was so happy to get to be there and see her victory! That made my night!

So with 30 miles completed and 20 to go, Rick and I headed out for another loop. The blister pain was really pretty intense. Several times I just sat down in the road to take off my shoe to try and re-adjust things to relieve the pain . . . but nothing worked.

Oh . . . and I had my first hallucination! Rick and I both had our light off and then suddenly there were snakes crossing the road everywhere! Maybe 50 of them! I really couldn't tell what kind they were but they were everywhere!

As we got back to the main aid station and my car, I stopped to change shoes and socks . . . hoping that might help. But as I went from my car to the aid station, it was hurting worse then ever. And I told Rick I was quitting. The pain was just too much. Boogie had kicked my ass . . . again. And this one was worse! At least with my other Boogie races I had managed to finish.

Rick was supportive and told me that I knew best. After a few minutes of standing around talking about it and being unsure about quitting, I decided I should just walk down Bethel Hill some while I was re-thinking my decision before I told the lap counters I was DNFing. So we headed out down the hill. In a few minutes I told Rick I was going to finish 40 miles before I called it quits.

Going down Bethel Hill it started to get a little lighter and soon we could recognize folks we passed. And everyone was so encouraging . . . telling me 'great job' and 'awesome finish' super job . . . you did it!' Somehow I found it really hard to tell them I was so slow I still had another lap to go and I wasn't going to do that last lap . . .

Yea . . . maybe Boogie did kick my ass . . . but I decided to kick back! Okay . . it wasn't much of a kick! But I decided to finish this . . .

Luckily, our race director, Doug Dawkins, told me he would let me finish despite the fact that I was way over the cut-off. Thanks Doug!

So I got my hat and headed down the hill for lap 5.

But within a mile my macho decision to finish seemed pretty stupid. Quite frankly I seriously started thinking about turning around and heading back. Then, I heard a car approaching.

It was Amy Schimmel and Lauren Wilkins coming by to check on me before they headed back to Raleigh. Amy had every possible thing an ultra runner could need with her! Her SUV looked like the Clampett's truck headed to California! They knew I was having blister issues and asked if there was anything they could do! So they stopped in the road and opened their mobile hospital!

Here is what they looked like Monday PM.

Amy got a folding chair, Lauren got Ibuprofin and the medical kit as I took off my shoes and socks (by this time I had blisters on both feet). About this time, Jim Plant drove up and and the three of them looked things over and decided the best course of action. Drain the blister and then use some of Amy's special 'blister tape' to tape over the problem areas. These three were my saviors. I would have quit without their help.

So on I went. And things started feeling much, much better for awhile. I was back running! Hell yea! Passed the aid station and hardly slowed down! Ran about half way down Bethel Hill when the blister pain returned. So I just walked. Only one other person was out there, Paul Heckert and I passed Paul headed up the hill as I was about about half way down! Yea . . . I was DFL . . . again!

Frank Sherrill was actually sitting in the middle of the road ON the turnaround point! And he and I walked a way together until Tom Herbst came by and gave Frank a RIDE back to his truck!

Bethel Hill one last time . . . and I was was done! Paul stayed to see me finish as did Doug Dawkins. And Amy Surette and her kids were there too!! ) Amy had finished her first 50 earlier in the morning and just hung out until the bitter end! A very special thank you to all these folks.

So I did finish. Based on my performance, I didn't deserve to be an official finisher. Quite honestly this was much more of a walk then a run. But it was all I could do. And I'm proud I finished. Yea . . . Boogie kicked my ass again . . . but I did go down fighting!

Thanks for taking this Amy!

Boogie Prediction

2011-06-10T16:06:00.000-07:00

Okay . . . it is REALLY bad luck to predict a future race outcome.

I mean, really . . . 50 miles in the summer. Who can say what will happen? Certainly not me! At least for sure!

But still . . . I'm willing to go out on a limb and predict I WILL finish the 2011 Boogie 50-miler. Now, realistically I may not be an 'official' finisher. I'm mean I may possible (ok . . . very likely!) miss the 'official' race cutoff. And I sure don't blame the race for having one! But I predict I WILL finish . . . eventually!

There you go! Nothing like 'staking yourself out' on a race . . . even one as hard as Boogie! I mean, Boogie has the big three:
1) hills (okay, not mountains, but still hills!),
2) heat (looking like this year's temperatures may not be all that bad . . . only low 90°s, and
3) humidity . . . not as bad as FL in the summer . . . but close!)

I'll do this!

Boogie . . . Next Saturday!

2011-06-05T05:58:00.000-07:00

Next Saturday is THE day! Time to Boogie!

Each year I look forward to the Bethel Hill Moonlight Boogie races. I really don't know why.

For the last three years I've 'run' the 'Baby Boogie' and for three years the race has totally kicked my butt. I suffer and slog my way through the 26.2 miles and finish with an embarrassingly slow time. Totally shot. I really don't understand why I came back after my first year.

Hot as hell at the start (6 pm) . . . high 90s. Then thunderstorms rolled in just after dark. Got so foggy you couldn't see! And got TOTALLY soaked. Then, blisters developed. Tired, beaten and hurting, I limped to the finish in torrential rains. The finish line crew was sitting in a car there. They cracked the window and yelled at me to pick up a mug for my finishers award.

And that year was probably my most enjoyable Boogie!

So . . . . after being beaten down and humbled for three straight years. Did I sign up for Boogie again this year? Well . . . sort of. I did sign up. But since the marathon has my number and kills me each year I decided to change races and enter the 50 miler.

Okay . . . I admit . . . this decision was made in nice, cool weather and alcohol influenced. Definitely not thinking clearly when I sent in my entry. What on earth was I thinking?

"Okay, I better go ahead and send in my Boogie entry or it will sell out. The last three years the marathon has totally, 100% kicked my butt. Do I really want to suffer through another 26.2 Boogie miles. Hell no! Soooo . . . maybe I should enter the 50. How much harder can it be? Yea . . . that's a good idea. Enter the 50. I'll just pace myself and cruise through it. Yea . . . should be easy! Yea . . . that's what I'll do! Enter the 50! Cool!"

So, next Saturday afternoon, here we go! It will take a frickin' miracle for me to finish this within the cutoff. But just maybe a miracle is in the wings! Extended weather forecast says only high 80s at the start.

Yea . . . this should be easy!

Home again! Loved California!

2011-05-25T06:13:00.000-07:00

After a week's vacation it is sure is nice to be home!

I took a week off from running . . . okay . . . except for just one marathon last Saturday by myself in Solvang. We went to a family wedding and had a blast!

Solvang is in a wine region just north of LA and we spent Friday sampling lots of different wines! Wonderful rehearsal dinner Friday night (yea . . . more wine!) and then the wedding Saturday late afternoon. The ceremony and reception was at a vineyard and I've never been to a wedding where everyone was served wine when you got to the ceremony! Heck we drank wine the whole ceremony long!

But this is a running blog . . . enough off-point commentary!

I knew that San Francisco weather was cool (long sleeves feel nice!) but I had no idea that even LA has cool weather. They tell me LA rarely gets into the 80s! Usually 60s or 70s max! And dry! No wonder there are so many great California runners . . . they have perfect training weather year round! And I found the folks I met to be super nice and friendly.

I got up early Saturday morning to go for a run. (Not hard to get up when your body is on eastern time!) I was actually cold when I started and wished I had brought a long-sleeved shirt! A guy at our hotel had told me about a road that sounded like a perfect out and back so I could go as far as I wanted. Just no water or stores! Since I didn't take my Nathan with me on the trip I improvised! Doubled plastic bag with four Gatorades inside which I carried! Okay . . . not the best idea I've ever had but it did work. Sort of!

But true to form, I quickly missed a turn, got lost and had to improvise again. I ran about 7 miles of somewhat interesting running by a bunch of wineries and small farms. On Friday, a huge bike stage race had run their time trials section in Solvang (we missed it due to pre-arranged wine tours) but their route out of town had several, well-placed port-a-potties! Nice!

Eventually, I found a different road with virtually no traffic and beautiful scenery!
~5 miles out and not a single house! The road ran through some guy's ranch! HUGE! On each side of the road fields and pastures as far as you could see! Beautiful!

Ran back to Solvang to pick up my nephew and his wife for a final ~3 miles or so. But they bailed so I just ran around town until I finished . . . maybe ~26-27. By the end the temperatures had climbed to the 70s maybe.

Back to the motel, shower and off to lunch and a couple of cold beers! Then, a short afternoon nap before the wedding.

The next day, after a post-wedding breakfast with everyone, Connie, Michael, La and I drove to Santa Barbara to spend the day. What a great town! The layout is just about perfect . . . on the ocean at the base of mountains! We had a blast there . . . here are a few pictures . . .

On Monday everyone decided they wanted to go on a whale watching cruise. I tend to really get seasick, so I was going to stay on dry land . . . but Connie shamed me into going with them . . . the old "Well, if you're not going, then we'll all just stay here and try and find something else to do." routine. Damn I didn't want to go! Once out of the harbor the captain told us it was going to be unusually windy. Turned out it was a REALLY rough, windy day out there and probably 75% of the folks on the boat got seasick. Honestly the first person started losing it within 15 minutes!! They even ended the trip early to the cheers of passengers!! I had taken a pill and only got a little queasy . . . but both Connie and La felt bad. And Connie even fed the fish! . . . Yes . . . There is some justice in this world!

But we did see whales . . .

The pictures just don't show how rough the seas were though! So glad to get back on dry land!

5k my way . . .

2011-05-15T17:58:00.000-07:00

I really didn't want to run the Rocky Mount Fun Run for Charities.

I sent two emails to the race asking if they needed volunteer help, but I never got a reply. Guess they really wanted quality help. Can't blame them.

Rocky Mount doesn't have too many races, so all of us in the running community try to support every race put on. This one is pretty neat . . . not as a run . . . but what the event does. Essentially, the race serves are the fund raising hub for local charities . . . the event organizers get matching funds for all contributions made to a local charity. So every charity in the area tries to get donors to make contributions through the event. Very neat!

Another neat thing about this event is that each charity sets up a booth on race day to show what their organization is all about. And lots of folks from the community come to be part of it all!

So as an event to benefit the community, there is none better!

But as a running event . . . well . . . let's just say it could be improved! But that doesn't really matter that much. The races themselves are not the real point of this event. But still, the run itself could be so much better . . .

So instead of driving to Rocky Mount to volunteer, I drove there and signed up for the 5k.

I didn't plan to really run very hard . . . and I didn't. I haven't done any speed work in months, so it made no sense to try and go all out. I was just there to have fun and run a little harder than normal.

Before things got started had a chance to see a lot of Rocky Mount folks I don't get to see all that often anymore. Lot's of fun. Plus, the Rocky Mount Endurance Club (RMEC) was out in force! Since I actually live an hour away, I don't often get to run with the group and see everyone so this is especially fun for me. I finally found Connie (or rather she found me!) before she when to her volunteer spot on Falls Road.

Lots of confusion about the race start. One person involved with running the race told us the 10k would start 5 minutes after the 5k start. But surprise, surprise! At the last minute (it seemed!) they decided to start both races together! Actually a smart move considering the 5k walkers . . . but many 10k runners weren't ready! Oh well . . . its a fun run!

Brent Brondyke and I started together. Brent was doing the 10k and was also planning to take it easy as he has been having serious running issues. Lot's of fun catching up with Brent! We passed the first mile in 9:20. Faster than I had thought! I felt really comfortable . . . not like a normal 5k race!! Saw Connie just after the 1 mile point. The course headed into the park and at the split, Brent went his way and I went mine. Soon after I saw Margaret Bentley and we hung together for awhile. Just ahead we saw Eric Ghiloni and Margaret and I set our sights on catching up with him. Eric was having some stitch issues but luckily they passed and the three of us ran together until about the 2 1/2 mile point.

At the top of the little hill I decided it was 'go time' for me. I still didn't really push it, but I did pick it up. By the time I got to the finish line I was definitely tired. But the nice thing about a 5k is after 3 minutes and a drink of water I felt 100% recovered!

Henry Forrester and Brandon Miller pushing to the finish

So I headed back out the race course to cheer! So many inspiring faces! I can only imagine the stories that go with each of them. Kids struggling, but so focused on finishing! Folks intent of crossing the finish line in what is likely their very first 5k! Proud parents running with their children! And many, many more. The smiles and determination on folks' faces is really what running is all about.

Ted Lord and his son about to finish the 5k

I stayed for the awards ceremony where more of the race organization issues surfaced. Two 5k runners were declared winners of the overall 10k race so the folks that were the age group winners missed the public announcement of their wins. Too bad. I'm sure they sorted this out later, but still 'a swing and miss' for the race. One neat addition they did at the race this year . . . the overall winners (3 deep) got to award money ($50, $74 and $100) to the Rocky Mount charity of their choice! What a cool idea! Very nice tough!!

As great as this event is, I just can't figure out why they can't the the running part right. I'm guessing that non-runners are the planners. I'm sure they do get runner input, but this was their 3rd year. Issues should be worked out by now!

Cures for the Colors 100 - The Good and the Bad!

2011-05-04T11:45:00.000-07:00

This post is really more for me so I can remember all the stuff that worked and what didn't work so well. And maybe there is something here that you might find interesting or even possibly valuable.

While I didn't finish the full 100 miles at the "Cures for the Colors 100 mile Run" in Goldsboro, NC, I did have my best 100 mile attempt to date. 70 miles completed and I know I could have gone further without the blister issues. (See my last blog entry for my boring race report)

One thing did happen at this race! I proved to myself that I did have some mental toughness as I did continue about for about 23 miles after the blisters got bad. I knew I was doing additional damage . . . and I knew it wasn't going to just get any better, but I kept going as long as I could. My best guess is that I was at an Ivan8 or perhaps just a high Ivan7. If you're not familiar with this scale of suffering intensity, here is a link to Jonathan Savage's Wiki where he talks about his Ivan Scale! I really wanted to get to at least 75 miles, but that day it really wasn't an option. 70 was plenty!

Today is Tuesday and the blisters are now much, much better. After multiple 'openings' and soaking in epson salts things seem to be healing well. I'll try some running probably Wednesday or Thursday I'm guessing.

What went well . . .

The Zombie Runner Cool-off Bandana is totally awesome! If hot weather get to you like it does me, then this is a total MUST HAVE!!
Walking the two laps in the afternoon worked out great. At the time, I was worried if I would be able to start running again when the sun got low. In some past summer runs I just couldn't get going again. But this time I didn't find it hard to start back up running again.
Running at night is my favorite time to run. Saturday night there was no moon and one of the roads had few houses and no streetlight! I so love to turn my light off and just run! The best for sure!
I finally got my pain medicine dosing right for me! This has been tricky to say the least. The medicine I use (Mortin) has a maximum dosage every 4 hours. So . . . here is what I did this time: when I first started feeling the need for so pain relief (this time around mile 30 or so, I took 1/2 the maximum dose. Then, 2 hours later I took another 1/2 the maximum dose. And I kept taking pills every 2 hours as long are you are peeing. If you aren't peeing . . . don't take any more pills and up your hydration intake. This worked soooo well for me! Everyone may do it this way . . . I don't know. But I did come up with this plan on my own and it sure works! And yes . . . I did talk with my doctor about this and my general medication risks before!
I'm beginning to learn that when I start to feel myself struggling in a long run, it's usually because I need food! Gels, soup, candy . . . what ever sounds good. But I need to eat. I also drank 4 Ensure shakes. Not really sure if they were what gave me my boost or if it was the chicken noodle soup. I'm thinking it was the soup! But it's magic after I eat. 30 minutes and my energy level is back up!
The race had a fantastic variety of fluids to choose from and this was REALLY nice! Sure they had the normal gator aid and water. But they also had Coke, Mt Dew, Apple juice, grape juice, orange juice and a ton more choices that I'm just not remembering! I totally LOVE that! Very nice!
Desitin . . . Damn that stuff is GREAT! I'll just leave it there . . . Never an issue since I started using this before the race. And I used to have problems EVERY single race. I tried everything! But Desitin totally solves the problem.
My Tilley Hat is absolutely perfect on a bright sunny day. I'm really surprised I see so many ball-cap style hats and so few brimmed hats. Maybe folks think they look stupid. Maybe they think the hat won't stay on well. I don't know. But these hats are awesome for running on a sunny day!
Sharon Scott told me a tip she had heard . . . take a toothbrush and toothpaste and brush your teeth! It's amazing how great it feels to have clean teeth and a fresh mouth at 50 miles!
My The North Face duffle bag is awesome. Okay. It is a little pricey! But I believe you could set off a stick of dynamite inside it and it would still be functional! I have the large size and it's huge! Everything can fit inside! Everything! And the neat thing is you can carry this monster like a backpack (everything is included).

What didn't go so well . . .

The biggest problem was obviously my second set of shoes! I really believe all shoe companies are just about equal. The only things that really matter are 1) does the shape and volume of the shoe match YOUR foot, and 2) does the shoe have the features you need (cushioning, support, minimal, etc.). It's not the brand, it's the shoe! My problem was I had been buying the same shoe from the same brand for probably 15 years. And for some reason, they changed the shoe but still called it the same thing! So I bought them, took them home and ran in them . . . and then started feeling the differences. I should have just given them away. Joey Anderson was with me Saturday as I was changing the shoes and we even talked about the fact that I didn't like these shoes anymore! STUPID! I should have know better! Why take that risk?
The food they had at the race was okay . . . but I just had trouble eating enough of it. Pizza was good, but I just had trouble getting the hot dogs down. Luckily, I did have chicken noodle soup and Ensure. But I was out by daylight Sunday morning. Had I been doing more loops I would have had issues if I couldn't talk someone into going to the store for me!!
I needed medical help with my blisters and there was none available. On my lap where I was searching for a nurse or doctor at an aid station, whenever I ask, the station volunteers want to know if I wanted them to call for help. That was good. But I just needed help with my blisters and there was no one there to assist. Also, if the temps fell much lower there could have been hypothermia issues.
The race needed either lap counters or a lap board. After 8-9 laps I have to struggle to remember correctly. Luckily, I had the 'Bill Keene Official 'Runners from Hell' Digital Lap Counter!' Without that I would have been screwed. What this technical device is is a over-sized ring you move from one finger (digit!) to the next as you complete a lap! It works!
I really would benefit from an experienced crew member to help me remember stuff after 40 miles or so. Several laps I failed to replenish electrolyte pills and pain pills. I also forgot my blinker light as it got dark, I forgot to put on a long-sleeve shirt as the sun went down (and got quite chilled), I forgot to take my fleece my last two laps (when I was going to be walking so slow!). Nothing ended up being a serious problem, but it could have been if the weather had been any cooler (low was 52° that night).
My blister treatment plan needs some serious work. While blisters have only been an issue for me twice in my running life, both times they occurred at the same place . . . the ball of my foot under the callous.

Okay . . . that's about all I can think of right now. I promise I will try to make my next blog entry a little more fun!

The Operation

2011-05-02T16:50:00.000-07:00

"But you know, Joey, only ONCE in all my years of running have I ever had an issue with a blister!"

That is a short excerpt of a conversation Joey Anderson and I had as he and I walked through the mid-afternoon heat Saturday. Somehow we started talking about blisters and some of the problems he had experienced through his running years. After I said this, I should have walked off the road, found a tree and 'knocked' on it!


Just before the start. A word of prayer. The National Anthem was fabulous!

I was thrilled when I saw Joey's smiling face Saturday morning when I was on maybe lap 3 (5.26 mile loops for this course!). Joey had come to a family event in Goldsboro and made time for a little run/walk with me in the morning and the came back for a little over a lap in the late afternoon. Trust me . . . I gave him a lesson in slow running in the morning session and a PhD in slow walking in the afternoon! So enjoyed the time together and the mental lift it gave me!

For that afternoon lap with Joey and the one before it, I had decided to 'walk only' to avoid the 80*+ temperatures. It wasn't all that humid, but the heat was tough . . . and the course had no shade. But you deal with whatever it is that's before you. You just adjust. So I just slowed down to conserve energy. That part worked pretty good.

Joey left as the sun was getting low in the sky. As he was leaving I was changing shoes and socks, though I was not having any problems. Joey and I even talked about the shoes I was putting on. I told him how they had changed this shoe and I really didn't like it much anymore and he agreed saying they even made it heavier and stiffer. I had brought three pairs of shoes and changing shoes at ~31 miles just made sense . . . the temperatures were starting to drop some and I thought starting again with fresh shoes and socks would be a welcome re-start. I knew I didn't love these shoes, but I thought they were okay. In hindsight, it turns out changing shoes was my critical mistake. But I had no way of knowing that at the time.

The event was called "Cures for the Colors' and was a fund-raising event to support NC cancer victims. The event was primarily a relay event but there were six of us who were planning to try to complete the full 100 miles.

Here is the course:

This was the race's first year and I expected just about nothing, since it was not put on by seasoned ultra runners. But I've got to say they did a very good job! Food (hamburgers and hotdogs) , a great selection of fluids (lot's of choices!), excellent number of aid stations, nice planning for dealing with running at night on roads that weren't close! And a nice, flat course with 3 aid stations along the 5.26 mile course. I would do this race again.


Joey at the end of his walk!

After, Joey left and I had changed my shoes and socks, I decided it was time to start running / walking again. And I was really pleased about how much energy I had conserved! I felt fresh physically and mentally! So far so good! I was making good time! And mentally I was 100% there!

I had decided to try to post short update on Facebook (my first time ever doing that!). At about mile 39 I posted "It's a little hot but cooling. Spirits good. At 39" I was moving better then I ever had before at this point.

But somewhere in the mid 40s I started to notice the bottom of my left foot was getting tender. Then, a little later I was definitely hurting. I knew I had a problem.

So I stopped at the main aid station to survey the situation. And it wasn't very good . . . no . . . not good at all! Definite blisters forming under the callous on the ball of my forefoot! With my shoe off I hobbled over to the main aid station volunteers to ask for some help dealing with these blisters. But there was no EMT, nurse or doctor around. The aid station folks told me at Dr. Jim Atkins had earlier been forced to quit due to blisters. Jim was the race organizer and was also trying to finish his first 100 mile race. He and I had walked together for the lap before Joey came that afternoon. I sure hated this for Jim!

Knowing I had a serious problem developing, I decided to change shoes to my most cushioned shoes, my most cushioned socks and stop at the other aid stations to see if they had anyone that might be able to help me deal with these blisters. They didn't.

So, now back at the main aid station (now at about mile 58) I did my own surgery! Those that know me know my eyesight is not so good up close . . . and I'm not as flexible as I used to be! Okay . . . I'm not flexible AT ALL! Especially at mile 58 of a 100 mile run!! So it must have been quite the sight - me with my headlight on, trying to find the edge of a callous on the bottom of my foot where I had a chance of getting a pin in!! Many, many different pokes! And when I hit one of the right spot, it looked like I had hit oil!! A mini-! "There she blows!!" It was like there were many, many different blisters, all hiding under this one huge callous covering my whole forefoot.

So, with surgery over and shoes and socks back on, I headed out again. While every step hurt, I found I could still walk. And I even picked up the walking pace (faster walking!!) for awhile as the pain seemed to back off some. But it got bad again after maybe a mile. Pain was . . . let's just say significant. At least with my foot hurting so bad, my legs felt relatively good, all things considered!

I got that lap finished and took a nap for about 15 minutes. Decided to head out for another lap.

On my last full loop, at mile 1 1/2 or so, I saw Jimmy Ballard who was pacing a friend on his first 100 (sorry but I missed his name!). They were moving really strong! To show you how slow I was moving, they passed me again at about mile 4 or so . . . and he was on his finishing lap!


Toast . . . mile 70 at 6:45am.

Finishing that lap, I knew I was done. But I needed 2 more miles for 70. Doing my out-and-back, the last mile returning took me 40 minutes! My decision to quit was easy. I had (or even now have) no doubts that I did the right thing in quiting. If you saw the bottom of my foot, you would understand! So at about 6:45 am I quit.

Doing the math, I certainly would not have made the 30 hour cut-off to complete the 100, even if the blister issue hadn't come. But I believe I would have been within an hour or so of it. And I believe I could have walked the remaining 30 miles. So I do feel good about this effort. But . . . still . . . a DNF is a DNF! This one is just a tad easier to swallow then Umstead . . . or maybe I'm just getting better at failing!!

Next . . . what went right and what went wrong.

Question: Why do you keep reading this?? It's not going to get any better!

A feudal effort . . . but an effort none the less!

2011-04-28T17:55:00.000-07:00

Talk about 'no pressure' races. This coming weekend's race in Goldsboro is nothing but fun! All excuses are set in stone. Lot's of reasons to not do well!

But, you never know what to expect on race day! Anything can happen . . . ANYTHING!

Legs could feel tired. But legs COULD feel strong! No possible way to predict which legs will show up Saturday. But no reason to feel defeated before I start!

I'm guessing by 20-30 miles I'll pretty much know how I'll feel. But even then, you really just don't know! The ups and down / peaks and valleys of an ultra run continue to amaze me! In 5 minutes I can go from feeling like I'm ready to die, to feeling like I could just go on forever! I've learned to NEVER make a snap decision ultra running. Be sure you go for 10 miles or so, at least!! Things change!

Here is what I hope . . .

I get to 50 miles before I even start thinking.
I can stay moving until at least daylight. I've never gone past 2:30 am!

If I do those two things I'll feel good about my day. Past that . . .

75 miles would be awesome . . . the furthest I've ever gone. I sure would like to do that!
If I could make it to 75 miles by 9 am . . . damn . . . I would have a chance! Rick Grey tells me that THAT should be my goal and then passion would take me in! We'll see!

But realistically, 100 is a pretty far 'out there' goal. Virtually impossible for me, given my current training and rest condition.

But, like I said . . . you never know what to expect on race day! Anything can happen . . . ANYTHING! But one thing I promise . . .

I WILL have fun!

When should a dream just remain a dream?

2011-04-24T12:39:00.000-07:00

Warning to both of you readers!
This is nothing entertaining here . . . at all! Realistically, there is NO REASON to read this. I've just written it to help me sort things out. And I do believe I feel slightly better now. But seriously . . . save your time and skip this one.
-Frank

____________________________________________________________________

I can't help but be torn between two saying:

Never, ever give up! and
Some things are just not to be!

My dream is really quite simple (and cheap!) . . . complete a 100 mile endurance event.

The dream has been with me now for about five years. It started in 2007 soon after becoming a member of the Mangum Track Club. Trust me . . . these folks are a REALLY bad influence on you! And it became a full-fledged goal when I paced the last lap with Cam Kelly and saw him accomplish this seemingly impossible feat. I've now tried to accomplish this twice and failed both times. So now I'm thinking about this dream. Should I try again? Or not?

For me three major questions come to mind:

Can I realistically do this?
Should I try again?
Should keep on with my current strategy or re-train to use a different strategy?

Can I realistically do this?
I honestly do believe the answer to the first question is yes, it is possible. Men and women much older then I do this regularly. And my health is good. So this should be possible. Period.

Should I try again?
This is not quite so clear. It's a lot of work . . . and pain. And why? What is the point really.

Quite frankly I really don't like where my fitness is right now. In order to run the Umstead 100 I've spent literally months in training. My strategy was to go slow and steady. So I trained to walk every two minutes and run one. I thought this was smart. Now I'm not so sure.

Today, even on a 3 mile run, I'm finding myself walking! And when I try to run faster then normal, I get out of breath quickly. I hate to think of how long it would take me to finish a 5k right now!!

Plus, walking is now a mental habit I would need to break. Especially if I decide to move away from this 100 mile run goal. Heck, today find myself walking and there is no physical reason at all to walk! I just do it. Strange.

I honestly believe a shorter, harder run gets you to a better level of fitness then where I am right now. So, once I decide about this 100 mile goal I know I want to work to improve my speed. I did for awhile last spring/summer and results came quickly. It's not really all that hard to do. I know I can.

Simply add intervals and hills one or two days each week. And convert my long run to a shorter, but harder tempo runs. There is work to do, sure. But it's no harder then what I've been doing. Just different. And it would take way less time!

I was never really a fast runner but I wasn't the slowest runner either! My best 5k was a 20:01. Certainly not really fast, but respectable. Convert that to what I might be able to run today . . . maybe 22 or 23?? That would be a good goal to strive for probably.

Should keep on with my current strategy or re-train to use a different strategy?
So . . . IF (and I do mean 'IF') I do decide to try another 100, the remaining question is what is the best strategy for me so that I maximize my chances of achieving this dream? Is it a continuation of my current strategy, or should I change my approach and re-develop my fitness to support a new strategy?

To answer this I have to know why I failed in the past. Realistically you never know for sure. But I believe I pretty much understand . . .

My first failure was not at an official 'race.' Instead, I staged my own attempt. My failure was likely a combination of several factors . . . 1) insufficient miles of preparation, 2) the day I chose to run was the first really hot day of the year, 3) I didn't think through a good approach for a crew and pacers. These three things doomed my first attempt. Notice I didn't say that trying this alone was a failure factor. I run alone a lot. Even at the Umstead 100 I was running alone most of the time. It is nice seeing others while you run, but I'm not sure it is a real requirement.

My Umstead 100 failure was a combination of two factors . . . 1) a mental collapse and 2) dealing this the physical pain.

The mental collapse began when I realized that I was moving too slow to finish within the 30 hour time cutoff. I passed 50 miles at 14:51. Maybe I was just having a not so good day. Maybe the hills got to me. No matter . . . the second 50 miles just couldn't happen in another 15 hours! While I had taken two bathroom breaks and two clothing changes during the first 50, I had slowed to only infrequent run intervals. My last 12.5 miles took me 4 hours and 50 minutes and I walked it all!!! That's just over a 23 minute per mile pace . . . only a moderate walking pace!

And I was hurting pretty bad. Its hard to explain the pain. But trust me . . . it hurts a lot! I do know I could have kept going and now I'm wishing I had. For sure I had at least one more lap )12.5 miles) in me . . . and possibly two. But I'm questioning if I really could have finished the full 100. I'm not so sure I could have. Even with an unlimited cutoff.

But if I trained to run faster, realistically how much would this help?

More information

In some ways I could look at my Umstead 100 failure as a training run.
Two weekends after Umstead, I traveled to the Va 24 Hour race and completed 56 miles and I knew FOR SURE I could have gone further if needed to assure that our Team Awesome won the ultra relay. (We didn't . . . Team Awesome finished with over 800 miles . . . almost 400 miles more then our nearest competitor!). I walked from about 30 miles on . . . I believe due to being tired from Umstead, but I kept a good walking pace. So this, too, could be considered another training run.

So the questions now are: Should I try again now? Or should I re-train and attempt it again next fall? Or should I just say to hell with this 100 miles goal of mine? This really isn't something anyone can tell me. It's something I've got to figure out for myself.

One of my problems is I'm not sure I can just 'give up' this goal as long as I feel like there is a chance I might be able to do it. But in some ways that exactly what I want to do. Let's face it, my running is excessive and compulsive. I know it. But right now, I just don't have anything to take it's place!

I'm mulling all this over . . . and I guess I need to decide pretty soon if I'm going to try this again this spring.

I love 24-hour races!

2011-04-18T18:02:00.000-07:00

If you are a marathon runner or an ultra runner and have never participated in 24-hour race, you've missed a really fun format. There is no easier way to run your first ultra then at a race like this! Fun and low-key. The only pressure is the pressure you put on yourself!

This last weekend I traveled to Hampton, VA to participate in Happy Pace Races (that's right That is REALLY their name!) Virginia 24-hour Race at Sandy Bottoms Park. The race is put on as a way to raise money for the American Cancer Society and, unlike many races that support a charity, this one really cares about it's mission. Very cool in that area. But realistically this race is really more of a 'fat ass' race then a real 24-hour event. Everyone brings their own support and aide. But the race did get some surprise food and drink which was nice, and they did have volunteers that kept up with each runners laps.

The course was a 3.75 mile route through Sandy Bottoms Park, a park of land reclaimed from trash dumps and interstate road construction residue. Very nice place when you consider what it was like not so long ago! For the race we left the start / finish, ran maybe a 1.5 miles next to Interstate 64, left turn, go 1/4 mile, another left between a drainage ditch and the woods. Follow that for a mile or so. Big incentive here was it smelled terrible so you wanted to get by this part just as soon as you could!

Another left through the woods, another left beside a marsh back to the trail beside the interstate, right turn and 3/4 mile back to the start / finish. We did pass some beautiful marsh areas. The trail was for the most part a gravel road.

But the neat part of this event is the team competitions! This added a whole new dimension to a 24-hour race. A group of runners banning together for common support and results. I loved this and hope other 24-hour race will pick up on this. Competition was three ways: 1) individual runners, 2) a traditional relay where one runner passes the baton to the next runner and 3) something they called an ultra team . . . where each team member runs the full race and team member distances are added together!

Alanna's Super Team banner!!!

Our team, Team Awesome, was put together by Shannon McGinn. This 12-person team was a team of 11 really talented runners . . . folks who have won 100 mile ultra event or have been solid 100 mile performers. Heck, one even participated in this year's Barkley!! Oh yea . . . and the last team member has a solid history if minimal performances in a variety of race distances, never performing at a level that could even be deem average. Yes . . . that's me . . . the team excuse. For more on that, see my previous post.

Sabrina, Shannon, Jessi, Jonathon, Tom and Dave . . . all one the front row! Go Team Awesome!

But Saturday was a new day . . . and another chance for something really good to happen . . . it didn't! By the time I had completed four laps (~15 miles) I knew my day was going to be a struggle. My legs just got tired. Period. No doubt I had not fully recovered from my Umstead 100 failed attempt.

So quite early in the race I knew this was going to be a hard day! And it was. After about mile 35 I don't believe I ran a step. Okay 'peanut gallery' . . . I know I don't run all that much anyway!! But this was not pretty . . . I just did what I had to do. But this really wasn't cause for concern . . . after all I was just becoming a better 'team excuse!'

For the first half of the day, the class of the field was Sabrina Moran (another Team Awesome member!) Sabrina lead the race for 13 hours until she had to stop due to some painful toenail issues. Following her was Jonathan Savage. But when the rains came in the evening Jonathan had to quit due to his weird skin disease. Bummer, since he was running strong and had saved plenty of energy for the full 24 hours. Sabrina ended her day with 82.5 miles, Jonathan ended his with just a little less at 78.75 miles.

Shannon before the race.

Shannon McGinn essentially died at about mile 65 or so when the torrential rains, lightning and wind hit at maybe 8:30 or so. Those of you that know me well, know how much I love running in a storm! And I had a GREAT storm to run in Saturday night! Did about 2 laps in this and loved every second! Bet we had 4 inches of rain and the trails became creeks! Great to splash through! Totally soaked!

I was bound and determined to finish 14 laps (a double marathon) and I had 13 complete when the rains stopped and the full moon came out! This just keeps getting better! I LOVE running at night (as long as I can stay awake!). Plus, I still had the mud puddles to splash through!

So Shannon, Jim Plant, Amy Schimmel (all Team Awesome members!) joined me as we all headed out for another lap. Amy and Jim pulled ahead, but Shannon and I just hung together, walking the lap in darkness. Oddly, Shannon shares my love of not using a light unless you absolutely have to! About the mud puddles . . . not so much! Together, on that lap we solved at least 1/2 of the world's problems! Very fun for me to get to know Shannon a little better. Super lady!

Ray . . . photographer, master ultra legend and nice guy!

When we finished that lap, Team Awesome got together to try and decide if we needed more laps or not. Cheryl Lager, our team member who had won last year's race with over 100 miles, wanted to finish 75 miles and needed one more lap . . . so she headed back out. Shannon needed two more for 75 and was planning to head out after a little rest. Amy Schimmel was out finishing her lap 14 and Jimbo had already done 14, but went out with Amy anyway! Such a nice, fun guy! Ray Krolewicz and Tom Gabell had taken a snooze during the storms and had just come out, refreshed, to add more laps! Not sure where these two guys ended up but you can bet with some serious miles!

Sabrina Moran on the left Tom Gabell on the right. One was NOT paying attention at the briefing!

Jessi Kennedy and Dave Lettieri had done a ton of miles each (Dave 60 miles and Jessi I'm not sure about) and had already headed back to NJ. Jessi had had a tough day with some back issues. So sorry Jessi! But I sure enjoyed our lap together! Not often I get to 'run' with the frickin' overall winner of a 100 mile race!

Jessi, Alanna and Dave paying attention at the briefing!

Alanna Garrison-Glast completed 52.5 miles when all was said and done. I didn't get to spend all that much time with Alanna . . . she just runs too fast! But this lady has the unique capacity to brighten anyone's day with her laugh and wonderful spirit!

Me . . . well I tapped out at 14 laps when the team decided we were good. 52.5 miles. I do think I had a few more laps in me, but had little desire to do more unless it was necessary! I admit it . . . I'm a wimp!

When I left, Shannon and Alanna were sitting in camp chairs with warm jackets on and blankets covering them. Shannon, a cancer survivor herself, wanted to finish 2 more laps for a 75 mile day. But after I left, Shannon, with new life, rose from the apparent dead and finishes 83.5 miles . . . the overall female winner for the event! WOW! Folks . . . to come back like that after mentally checking out is unbelievable! What a TOUGH chick!

Three heroes for the days were Charles West, Sid Dos Santos and Todd Glast. These guys served as crew for all 12 of us!! Hard work all day and all night! I hope I get a chance to return the favor! Thanks to each of you! Seriously . . . you guys ROCKED!!

Such a fun time and I loved meeting and sort of getting to know these super athletes and just good folks!

Turns out the team was right! The 11 team members of Team Awesome set a new race record by themselves! They didn't even need 'an excuse!!' But 'the excuse' had a blast anyway!! And 'the excuse' was ready if needed!

Support the Excuse!

2011-04-10T09:13:00.000-07:00

Several months ago as I was training for the Umstead 100, my "friend" Jim Plant, asked me if I might be interested in joining a 12-person relay team to participate in the Virginia 24-hour Race. Since the race was only two weeks after Umstead I was a little hesitant.

I was pretty sure I would be 'trashed' after my Umstead attempt at 100 miles. . . but two weeks rest was somewhat reasonable. And this was, after all, a relay. So it really wouldn't be all that hard. Heck . . . more of a party really! The more I thought about it, the more I liked the idea. Run a few 3.75 mile laps and then pass the baton on to the next person. So when Shannon McGinn extended the official invitation to join Team Awesome,I quickly agreed!

The team was shaping up to really be a great bunch of folks . . . some I know (Jim Plant, Amy Schimmel, Charles West, Ray Krolewicz, Shannon, Tom Gabell and Jonathan Savage) and some I'm looking forward to meeting (Alanna Garrison-Kast, Dave Lettieri, Jessi Kennedy, Cheryl Lager and Sabrina Moran).

Then . . . a few weeks before Umstead . . . I learned the truth!

This isn't really a relay!! Oh . . . they didn't out and out LIE to me! The race 'says' its a relay. But in this 'relay' every team member's total miles are added together!

That's right! They expect me to run for 24 hours!

At Umstead I trudged along for 20 hours and about died! This isn't looking good . . . no . . . not at all good! Then, I started thinking of who some of these people on Team Awesome are . . . top drawer runners:

Jonathan has won the FL Keys 100, and does a marathon before breakfast 3 days a week. Heck at last year's Hinson lake 24-hour Run he finished over 132 miles!!!!
Jessi Kennedy WON the NJ 100 (Not just the first female . . . she won it overall!)
Dave just finished a 100! (I don't know Dave yet, but heck he may have won for all I know!)
Charles just finished his first 100 at Umstead!
Jimbo has done several 100s!!!
Shannon has done a ton of 100s. Not sure of all her running accomplishments but she is a top quality runner for sure!
Ray is a frickin' ultra legend who has run more 100s then I have marathons!!!
Amy is a killer runner who laps me every time. She finished 84 miles at Umstead and would have finished except for hypothermia! A sub 24 hour 100 is a real possibility for her.
Cheryl just finished attempting the frickin' BARKLEY a week ago! That's right . . . THE BARKLEY!

And then there is me. The slowest 61 year old runner on the east coast . . . and maybe the whole US! I hold claim to a 90% success rate for DFL finishes (for you uninformed, that stands for 'Dead F***in' Last' !). 62 miles is my longest run ever!

I started thinking about this team and started wondering why (just as you probably have!) they asked me to be on the team with them. It just makes no sense! But then it struck me . . . there is only one possible reason they asked me to be on this team . . . and I've finally figured it out!! THEY NEED AN EXCUSE!

They think that 11 of them can win this relay! They are going for it!! But if they can't, then they can blame ME!!! That's right . . . I can hear it now, "If we hadn't had that slow, old codger on Team Awesome, we could have kicked butt!"

But one thing that got me excited was that this race is being conducted as a support for cancer research and treatment. And two of our team members are cancer survivors! I personally have contributed an extra amount to the American Cancer Society. And maybe you would like to support this effort and our team and make a contribution too. Here is a link! (It says George Nelson . . . and that's the right place!!)

But a promise is a promise. I said I would be on the team . . . and I will I'll be there doing the best I can. We'll see. I'm hoping I can do at least 50 miles. But I shouldn't do too much or I'll spoil their excuse!!!

Bust . . .

2011-04-04T18:13:00.000-07:00

Ok . . . I failed again! But I felt better about it then I did at my first 100 mile attempt! My time sucked, but somehow I feel better about things!

The Positives:

Chose the best race ever! I've run a ton of races . . . no other race even comes close to this one! They think of everything! Every single possible detail . . . it's perfect! And every volunteer must have to go through a week of training. Everyone single volunteer's focus is to 1) help you succeed and 2) to make YOUR experience the best possible one! As a runner you may THINK you've experience the best race possible . . . but until you've tried the Umstead 100, you'll never know how good it can really be!
No real problems physically! Okay, I hurt all over! Every part of my body . . . except my right ear! But no problem was disabling. And mentally I kept my facilities the whole time. I saw so many folks totally 'out of it' . . . not me!
Perfect weekend for a 100 mile run. Cool but not really cold . . . okay . . . maybe it got a little cold Sunday morning, but overall we could not have dreamed of better conditions.

The Negatives:

My training was obviously lacking.
My mental focus sucked.

I started the race truly believing I had a real chance to finish this race and earn an Umstead 100 buckle. But I was so wrong. I had no chance.

Running 100 miles is hard! It's one SUPER hard thing to do! My hat is off to everyone who has achieved this awesome milestone! Yesterday, I had three friend that got added to the list of successful finishers: 1) Sharon Scott, 2) Charles West, and 3) Daniel Lieb. Several others tried hard and almost made it . . . but not quite: Jim Wie, Amy Schimmel, Jeff Sackaroff, Lauren Wilkins. (Oh God . . . who am I forgetting . . . getting old is hell!!)

Sharon . . . That;s how fast she was movin'!!

I just finished looking at pictures of Sharon's experience thanks to great pictures her husband Ricky took. Got to admit that as I was looking at all the pictures, tears started . . . and continued!! I cried like a baby!. . . if I couldn't do I am sooooo happy Sharon did! Somehow I feel a special connection to Sharon!

Sharon looking happy as always!!

I was at about 45 miles as Charles lapped me! Just before the Biker about took me out!

And Charles West. Charles was on the waiting list but only told a few of us. He killed it out there. Plus, he got to hear me 'let loose' on a frickin' biker that almost ran me over! After all I yelled at him I'm so glad that dude didn't stop, come back, and whip my ass!

Not to mention Daniel Lieb. Of all the first-timers, I was most confident about Daniel's success . . . and successful he was! He is a freak of nature! Somehow I didn't get a picture of Daniel. But I got this one of one of Daniel's pacers . . . Bobby Cordell! Talk about adding spirit!

Jim Wei, Amy Schimmel, Lauren Wilkins and Jeff Sackaroff all have the mental toughness it takes. They didn't fail because of their lack of focus. Each failed in their goal due to physical issues that became insurmountable obstacles. Each will ultimately do this. (I can't help but 'tear up' again when I think about each of these folks . . . and their toughness . . . and their ultimate disappointment at Umstead! They soooo inspire me!)

But Saturday and Sunday I sure had a ton of support!

Will Jorgenson, Tammy and Rick Grey

Tammy and Rick Grey . . . amazingly neat people! Rick had huge digestion issues after 50 miles . . . but every time we saw each other he had noting but support for me! Tammy . . . every trip around she wanted to help. These are two special people. No wonder each is an ultra legend! And the 'Ultra Master and Guru' for so many!

Jim Plant . . . who had a bad cold and had to stop. But Jimbo is one of the most inspiring folks I know. He's done a ton of 100s and he'll do many more. Just not Umstead in 2011! Sorry Jimbo! But your Awesomeness will show through in two weeks!!

My pacers: Eric Pate, Scott Wingfield . . . plus James Stephenson and Cam Kelly waiting to be called. Eric made me finish Lap 5. Scott drove to Raleigh and ran to meet Eric and I even though he knew my Lap 6 wasn't going to happen! James and Cam were both so hoping to be there and help me home. Thanks everyone!

MTC . . . tons of MTCer out there . . . running . . . and supporting. I'll miss many!! But Tom Herbst, Frank MacGuire, Fred Dumar, Susan Dumar (special 'atta' girl' to Susan!!!! Super supporter and volunteer!) and Marie Lewis come to mind. Add to that Ben Dillion . . . probably the one person most supportive of all! And the 'EVERYWHERE" volunteer all weekend long! MTC is the BEST!

Final Thoughts

Everyone person I talk to is amazed at even trying to run 100 miles. Some folks (especially runners) even think they may understand what it might take to actually run 100 miles (I'm one of those . . . but trust me . . . we don't!) Running 100 miles is no frickin' joke. You have to have a mental toughness only a few in this world actually have. The pain . . . the preparation and training, the boredom of the middle miles. . . the focus to push through the unbelievable pain to get to the finish! Everyone who has ever completed a 100 mile run totally deserves the admiration you've earned! I just so wish I had it in me.

And maybe I will. But most likely I won't. But that's okay. Maybe I'll develop the mental toughness it takes and the physical condition. Maybe not. But at least I've tried. I'll try again!

One week away . . . Umstead100

2011-03-26T18:30:00.000-07:00

"I've almost got it made! Just got to claw my way to the top of this damn 'Cemetery Hill' one last time! Damn, it's getting steeper every lap. I'll bet all the other runners have been getting handfuls of dirt from the bottom and carrying them to the top. Almost there . . . just keep my head down and keep putting one foot in front of the other. Just keep moving. Is there any part of my body not hurting? I don't think so! There . . . take THAT Cemetery Hill! Not far now! Finally . . . there is the turn! Just one last time through this rocky section. Now just the short climb up the stairs to the finish! There it is! I DID IT! I FINISHED the Umstead 100! YESSSSSSS!!!"

That is pretty much what I keep trying to picture in my head. Trying to see success . . . Picturing myself doing this! Trying to develop a positive frame of mind.

In a way, I guess I've already succeeded. I mean, I'm going to start this race . . . with full intentions of finishing. I've survived my training. I'm healthy. There is a lot to be said for just getting this far. But just starting won't be enough for me on this one. I've got to break new ground!

Realistically the odds are stacked pretty high against me completing the full 100 miles. I know that. But I've got four secret weapons . . . my pacers! Eric Pate, Scott Wingfield, James Stephenson and Cam Kelly! I've told these guys, my job is to finish four laps getting to the 50 mile point. From there on, it's up to you all to get me to the finish! That's putting a lot on them I know . . . but they can take it! If it's at all possible, these guys will make it happen for me!

I'm pretty sure that by myself I would mentally fold 'like a cheap pup tent.' I would start thinking negative thoughts, dwell on my pain and my need for sleep. And slowly I would decide to quit. But these guys will do their 'dead-level best' to keep me in the game. They are my 'ace in the hole!' My chance for success.

But whatever happens . . . happens.

I've never gone further then 50 miles. Once, I was just trying for 50 but the other time my goal was to run 100. And I failed miserably! So . . . at Umstead my minimum goal is one lap past 50. 62.5 miles. I promise I'll be happy with any distance from 62.5 on. Really!

My training has gone fairly well. Way more than my first 100 mile attempt. I'm not trying to run a time other then just beating the 'ghost of the 30 hour cut-off.' I should have done more training probably. Since January 1st I've run three 30-35 milers and two weekends with back to back marathons and at least a marathon every weekend except three (and one of those I ran the 20 mile miler at Uwharrie). Experienced ultra runners tell me that the training I've done should be adequate. I sure hope they're right!

Bottom line: I want to earn an Umstead 100 buckle. Bad!

I'm sure there will be more goals after this. And new challenges to try. But I do want to be able to say 'I finished a 100 miler.' And the Umstead 100 is my chance!

Don't count me out!

Umstead 100 Race Number Numerology

2011-03-18T18:46:00.000-07:00

Okay . . . Umstead100 race numbers are assigned and all the analysis is complete. So here are the race number numerology results.

Now remember, all this indicates is how much assistance or drag you will get from your race number. Some are definitely faster than others. But you can still do well with a bad number . . . it will just be harder for you. Plus, a fast number doesn't mean your Umstead100 results will definitely be good. It only means your race number is not going to hinder you. You still have some work to do!

Okay . . . here are the results!

Stupidity . . . and now conceit . . .

2011-03-13T17:01:00.000-07:00

Here was my Facebook post after today's run . . .

Oh Marathon Gods . . . hear my prayer!

I come before you a humble and apologetic man. I admit to you my conceit. Never again will I say such things as " . . . finally tapering so all I have to run Sunday is a marathon!"

I promise from this point forward I will always try to preface the word 'marathon' with the word 'frickin' or some similar adjective. I will show respect for 26.2 miles . . . always.

Amen

Need I say more? Probably not . . . but I will.

What have I been thinking? I've actually been trying to convince myself that I have more than 'a snowball's chance in hell' of doing well at the Umstead 100. My training runs have been going great! And I've been gaining confidence! Plus, everywhere I turn I keep hearing how a 100 mile run is mostly mental. Think positive thoughts . . . picture success . . . I will do this! So, I've been trying to use all these positive thoughts.

Well . . . I guess I even had convinced myself!

Yesterday at the Canal 1/2 Marathon I made the comment that I was starting my taper and all I had to run was a marathon on Sunday. Talk about conceited . . . "Oh yea . . . I can run a long way!"

Well, today I had my wake-up call. I finished my 26.2 mile run in an impressive 6:30! That's right friends and neighbors . . . 6:30! And I pretty much was reduced to a 'tuck-tail' walk the last 6-7 miles! I suck.

Four bathroom stops didn't help. But they weren't the cause of my personal meltdown. It also got a little warm today. But heat wasn't the cause of my meltdown either. Quite frankly, I have no frickin' idea why I did so badly today.

And I was humbled! I had total confidence that this would be a fairly easy, confidence-building run. After all, it was 9 miles less then last weekend and on that 35 mile run I felt good at the end. Not today. Today, I barely made it back to my car before I died!No confidence building here today!

Before the run I was having fun talking about the fourth running of the Rocky Mount Marathon and how I was going to set a course record today. Well . . . I guess I did that (new course!), but there wasn't a positive feeling about anything. No fun today. Jimbo needs to just keep last year's trophy.

A marathon is no joke. Some days are better then others and a marathon does seem fairly easy. But we all have bad days and we NEVER know when one will come along. Hey . . . it's a frickin' marathon! In Greece a guy died running one! (And a guy in Rocky Mount almost did today!)

Don't get cocky. God knows I have no reason to EVER get cocky when it comes to running . . . I'm usually DFL or darn close. But I did get cocky and didn't respect 26.2 miles.

But today, the Marathon Gods put me in my place.

I don't even want to think about the Umstead 100 . . .

It's becoming clearer now . . .

2011-03-07T16:57:00.000-08:00

If there was any doubt to my stupidity before . . . I believe I have laid that to rest! So much data . . . all pointing to the same conclusion! Me finishing a 100 miles is just plain stupid.

I chose to do my weekend's long run on Sunday. Saturday was a nice day in eastern NC, but on Sunday we had two separate 'frog-choker' storms. The first hit about 10 am and lasted an hour or so. The second was much stronger, started about 1 pm and lasted maybe 1 1/2 hours . . . but much, much more rain!

Temps were nice, but my feet were wet all day long! At one point I even convinced myself it was 'fun' splashing through the puddles . . . but after maybe 10+ miles of splashing, it just got to be a little old. Even for someone as mentally challenged as me!

For this run I had no route in mind at all! It was fun for me! Just heading out running with no preconceived notion of a route! Just run (okay . . . run and walk!) and turn anywhere I decide. Made for an interesting route. I really did love that! All I needed to do was to end up at my car when I was done!

I carried my Nathan backpack with fluids, gels, a candy bar, some hygiene items, my cell phone and my debit card! By running in Rocky Mount instead at Gaston Lake, I was never too far from a store! Just duck in (no pun intended!) and get what I needed! Probably not a time efficient approach, but it worked . . . and I sure can't do that at the lake!

Arthur Bennett joined me for the first 8 miles. Really enjoyed catching up with Arthur again. Nice to have someone to talk with . . . a pleasure I rarely ever get!

I used this run to experiment with some possible equipment changes I'm considering:

Tried some new socks (Drymax Max Protection). No blisters even with the heavy rains . . . but I rarely get blisters anyway. I liked the socks.
Used SportShield rather than Bodyglide. Hard to tell on this one. I did get some chafing, but with all the rain, I likely would have chafed with Bodyglide or anything else. Still . . . the jury is still out on this one.
Desitin is FANTASTIC! If you don't understand the problem . . . well . . . talk to me about it sometime. But believe me that this is the solution!!
I HATE the new Mizumo Wave Rider 14. They just MUST have changed something besides the colors! Just seems stiffer or something somehow. Still, no blisters or foot problems so I guess I shouldn't complain much. But I'm going to find some Wave Rider 13s and buy several pairs!

In spite of the rain, my 35.5 miles went fairly well, all things considered. I was definitely tired at the end, but I did feel like I could have continued to 40-50 miles if needed. My pace really slowed near the end. Overall, I averaged a 16:00 minute per mile pace including all stops. But the last 5 miles (except the last mile) were really slow.

When you talk about averages I remember what my first boss told me, "Once my left foot was in a bucket of ice and my right foot was in a bucket of boiling water . . . on the average I felt pretty good!"

And that's the way it was for me yesterday . . . up until about 25 miles I did okay but then started to slow and I walked pretty much from 30 to 34.5. The last mile I did pick it up and finished relatively strong for me,

So . . . with this as my long run, I can imagine completing 5 Umstead laps (62 1/2 miles) before totally dying. But a full 8 laps? To hell with the 30 hour time limit, I don't see how I can keep going that far at all! It's just plain stupid to think I have a chance to actually do this.

But I guess the real challenge at least for me is to just see how far I can get!

I loved Tom Herbst's comment on my last blog entry:

"Wrong frame of mind. Your goal is to see how many cheeseburger halves you can eat, how many times you can get passed by Serge (or Jonathan Savage, or whoever), how many times you can pee on a loop - ANYTHING but the mileage. That way lies doom......."

Tom . . . I'm listening!

Stupid

2011-02-27T17:46:00.000-08:00

Today, I looked up the word 'stupid' in the dictionary.

Okay . . . I KNOW I'm not 'the sharpest knife in the drawer!' But what the heck??

After my initial reaction of total denial and now that I've had some time to think about it some, the answer is becoming just a little more clear. I still don't know how the dictionary people figured it out. But I believe they are probably right. But how did they figure it out? How could they possibly know?

I'm guessing that they used the ample public domain information out there about me to just make an educated guess! Here are some facts I bet they considered . . .

I'm a runner - Running without cause, in and of itself, suggests mental issues and lack of clear, focused thinking . . . isn't that a symptom of stupidity? Most runners try to 'sell' their stupidity as them just being 'crazy.' And that may be true to an extent. But there is definitely 'stupidity' in the mix! Let's just be honest folks . . . runners are stupid.

I've run marathons - Just running one marathon probably doesn't make someone appear much more stupid then just being a runner. I mean, there is something to be said for trying something new and different. But running a second marathon is highly suspect. Any more . . . and that is just plain stupid. If you had any sense at all you would realize a marathon hurts. Don't do it again! So continuing to run them clearly starts to cluster one into the 'stupid' group. And I've definitely run more than two marathons!

I've run further than a marathon - Okay folks. Why would anyone run even one step past 26.2 miles? If a marathon is stupid, any further is . . . just . . . well . . . really STUPID!

I've tried and failed to run 100 miles - Come on . . . who wants to run 100 miles? "Who was chasing you dude, and what were they driving!!" Reasonable people get tired just driving 100 miles. There is a perfectly good reason why I failed. It was too far. Simple.

So, after failing miserably at my first attempt to run 100 miles, I've decided to try it again . . . AND I actually PAID $150 for the opportunity to run the Umstead 100 starting April 2nd! Why would anyone PAY MONEY to be publicly humiliated? You got it . . . its just plain STUPID! And it's no real surprise that the race day is the closest Saturday to April 1st . . . that's right . . . April Fool's Day!

About four weeks ago I tried to run the Uwharrie 40 mile trail race. You guessed it! I couldn't finish a 40 miler. So what makes me think for even a minute I just might be able to finish a 100? Stupid.

And what is the 'prize' if you successfully complete the full 100 miles? - A frickin' belt buckle. No . . . the belt isn't even included! And would I ever actually wear the buckle? What do you think? It would just look stupid! (So . . . maybe I would actually wear it? Hummmm?)

And can you imagine how much pain is associated with this effort? Why would anyone CHOOSE to do this? To make a conscious decision to pay hard earned money for pain like this . . . stupid!

Some of the better runners (I said 'better.' Not 'smarter' . . . just 'better!') will run 100 miles in less then 24 hours! Then, their pain stops. But for me, if (and that is a humongous 'IF') I am physically able to tolerate both the pain and the sleep deprivation for the full 30 hours before the race cutoff . . . I just MIGHT be able to get as far as 75 miles! That is a stretch goal. There is no way possible that I could cover the full distance in 30 hours, short of some sort of miraculous, heavenly intervention! Or maybe it time stopped and I could keep going for a few hours! So, let's face it, its totally stupid to start when you KNOW you can't finish. It's like skydiving without a parachute. You know full well what the outcome will be, so why do it? Just stupid!

To continue the stupidity, I'm even going so far as to make a detailed plan of how I'm going to try to accomplish this 100 mile run (a plan doomed to failure before the ink is dry!). I went to the Marathonguide.com site to start my planning. Thought I would see what my pace would need to be. Here is what Marathonguide.com said . . .

Even Marathonguide.com thinks you shouldn't run more then 10 hours!

Now . . . some of you 'Pollyannas' out there will try to say some stupid, encouraging and supportive things (I know they will be stupid because the only people that would want to encourage me in something like this just HAVE to be a runners . . . and we know 'Runners are Stupid!' (We've already determined that.) You'll say things like:

"You can do it!" or "You've got this!" - (These are normal 'calls of support' used by good runners on out-and-back sections when passing someone well behind them that they are pretty sure is in serious trouble and likely won't be able to finish.)

"Any 'DNF' (Did Not Finish) is better then a 'DNS' (Did Not Start)." or,

"At least you gave it your best effort! . . . you tried!" or,

"You just had a bad day . . . " or,

"Just go out slow and pace yourself . . . all you have to average is 3.3 miles each hour . . . that's only an 18 minute per mile pace. That's easy!" or,

"The secret is to just keep relentlessly moving forward!" or,

Other so called 'positive' comments.

But likely no one will be totally honest and say things that I really need to hear like:

"What the heck were you thinking?"
"Did you even think you stood a chance?"
"You're so frickin' slow you're lucky to have finished 3 laps in the 30 hour time limit!"
"You need to find something you can actually DO!"
"Just walk away from the $150 . . . it's a sunk cost anyway."
"Save 'face' and just say you're injured."
"Claim some mysterious illness and say your doctor won't allow you to even start!"

Well readers . . . (or reader) . . . if you are stupid enough to actually return to this blog, you are likely to be reading more and more about the Umstead 100 over the next several weeks. It's consuming almost all of my idle thoughts and I'm actually trying to convince myself I have a small chance to actually finish within the 30 hour time limit!

Stupid.

The Great Medoc Re-Run Re-Run ( or just another long run)

2011-02-21T17:14:00.000-08:00

Is the glass half full or half empty? Two ways to look at today . . .

Option #1 (and my personal favorite!)

Today was the running of the 2010 Great Medoc Marathon Re-Run, Re-Run.

The race began at the crack of 9 am and the field was totally out of site within 4 minutes. The weather started out perfect but as the day wore on temperatures climbed into the . . . well . . . I'm not sure but it felt warm. During the first lap, the field stayed within a comfortable pace, saving the effort for the later laps.

Beginning with lap 2, the pace quickened and the leader emerged from the pack with a strong pace. While the hills tended to have a detrimental effect on the leader, he more then made up the time with his blazing downhills. By the end of lap 2 he had a comfortable lead.

During Lap 3 you could tell the pace was taking its toll and the leader backed off, knowing his lead was sufficient to assure victory. In the last two miles, the leader clearly wanted to demonstrate his dominance over the field by again pressing the pace to an amazing level and crossed the finish line with no competitor in sight!

What a finish!!

Option #2

Well, I'm supposed to be getting ready for Umstead. And I never really earned my Medoc Marathon medal since I fell during the Medoc Re-Run and quite at ~18. So today was a holiday . . .

Started running at about 9 am. Man, were my legs ever heavy and sore. Took it easy for sure. I ran the normal Medoc Marathon track. By the end of Lap 1 my soreness went away and I felt amazingly good considering. Ran all downhills and probably 2/3 of the flats. Uphill . . . well, I just walked! But I carried my saw and ended up cutting probably 12 trees that were blocking the trail. Made for a slow loop but that really what I needed! By the time I finished Lap 1 the trail was 100% clear!! (You are welcome Ron! I got that nasty downed tree just before the climb to the summit!)

Lap 2 was pretty much a duplicate of Lap 1 but just no soreness and no trees to saw!. But I decided to run this lap backward . . . well . . . not really BACKWARDS . . . I just reversed direction. And surprisingly I felt pretty good, all things considered!

I was loving the day! Awesome weather and it just felt great to be out in the woods. No drama so far and I was surprised I had seen no one on the trails. But as I finished the lap there were several people at the picnic shelter.

Lap 3 started off slow . . . okay . . . slower the usual! Starting to feel it. Continued running the backward direction - I actually think it is a tad easier this way!! After the short Bluff loop, I continued on and soon started seeing people!! Wow!

Got to the Summit road and near the end came up on three kids (okay . . . not really 'kid' . . . they were in their 20s!) who wanted to know the quickest way back to the picnic shelter! Thank God! A solid reason to just walk until I could show them the short trail back to the bridge!

A little further I passed a mother and daughter coming up the trail to the summit. Another good reason to walk!!

I hate the hill on the Dam Site trail! Those rock are just killers. Each lap I tried to kick off or throw off the larger loose rocks . . . but when I returned there were new ones to take their place. Where on earth do they come from??

Pretty much survival pace until I finally left the creek for the final gentle climb back to the picnic shelter for the finish. Decided to run this uphill section. Almost made running it all . . . but not quite!!

Luckily, just after I finished a group of motorcycle riders drove up and one took a picture of me at the end!

Tired . . . but glad I did it!

2011 Pilot Mountain

2011-02-20T10:30:00.000-08:00

Got to admit I just don't get the name of this race. I mean, Pilot Mountain had never done anything to me before. I had no reason to 'pay it back' for anything. But now I do.

I've driven by Pilot Mountain literally hundreds of times on my way to Tennessee and totally LOVE this mountain. It must always cold on top . . .

But I've never run or hiked on it.

So I was definitely looking forward to this adventure. I chose this race on the advice of my friend (now ex-friend) Jim Plant. Jim ran the race last year and had rave reviews . . . such comments as "It's a keeper for sure!" and "Frank, you'll love this one!" And perhaps my favorite: "It's got that one climb up to the top, but it's not bad at all."

So I decided to add it to my 2011 list. There were two races going on Saturday - the marathon (just less then 80 runners) and what they called a heavy Half marathon (about 14.5 miles) (about 150 runners).

This race was no joke. So . . . not a lot funny to talk about when remembering my day. Sorry to the ten's of reader out there!!

Decided to get up early and drive to the race and save a few bucks. Ended up getting there early and had time to see a bunch of folks. Weather was perfect! Almost needed gloves . . . but not quite!

Jade and Jim Wei with their dog Canyon

Mark and Jim before the start.

Aren't Lynne and Ken 'Stylin'??

The race really turned out to be three races for me.

One of 10-12 creek crossings. The cool water was nice coming back!

After an immediate creek crossing and a steep 1/4 climb off the bat, things settled in. The first 8 miles were sweet. Nothing too hard at all. Just rolling hills and a few shallow creek crossings. I especially enjoyed these miles, running (and walking) with Jim Plant, Connie Howe and Lynne Evans. Had a blast with these folks! Loved how the returning half marathoners kept telling us the turnaround is just ahead!!

But after the 3rd aid station where the half marathoners turned around, things started to change! The trail started to climb . . . at first not terrible but with an increasing amount of rocks. And soon it just got bad. Really steep with very tricky footing and TONs of rocks! It wasn't long before Connie, Jim and Lynne were out of sight and I was all alone.

I had decided that for this marathon I would try using my hiking poles. GOOD CALL!! Ever since my fall at the Medoc Re-Run where I broke my wrist, I'm just freaking out about falls. And these poles definitely saved me several times! But I've got to get a new pair because where the bear had chewed one of the pole grips was so rough it ended up really hurting my hands.

After the initial hard, steep climb the trail headed steeply down! Crap! After gaining all that elevation, I sure didn't want to lose it, just to have to gain it again. These steep downhills proved to be every bit as hard as the uphills. Again, so glad I had the poles.

Eventually, the trail headed back up . . . straight up! Eventually the rough single track joined a nicely graded trail where the grade was not so ridiculous. I heard voices behind me and surprise, surprise it was some marathoners catching me! Huh? I was pretty sure I was in last place. Turns out these folks were finishing the loop around the summit and were soon to head down the mountain.

Me . . . well I had a ton more climbing to do! The trail got steeper. And the the steps started. Hundreds of frickin' steps! My legs were totally shot! After what seemed like a mile of this torture, I FINALLY got to the aid station! Chilly and windy so I didn't linger, but followed the trail around the base of the 'nipple' . . . seems like I was either going up rock steps or going down them. Did I mention that my legs were totally shot?

Lots of people up at the top of the mountain enjoying the beautiful day and the fantastic scenery. But they all drove up here!!

After making the circle around, the course designer had one final, ugly climb in store for us just when I had convinced myself it would all be down hill from here! To call him sadistic is an understatement!

Some of the 'backside' cliffs

After that short killer climb on my totally shot leg (did I mention how shot my legs were?) we followed the base of the cliffs on the mountain's back side where there were literally hundreds of rock climbers out enjoying the day. I would have liked to watch them climb.

As I was passing one group, a young guy (20s) called out to me, "Hey old man, aren't you too old to be doing stuff like this?" I stopped, turned around and called back to him, "Aren't you too young NOT to be doing it with me?" His friends enjoyed that! But as I continued on, I started thinking that maybe he had a point.

This backside trail continued to be challenging . . . steps up and steps down. Tricky footing. Just a joy!!

But at about mile 13, the trail started to get easier as I started heading down the mountain. No more single track! But my this time my legs were totally shot (I believe I mentioned this!). I was able to run the down hills (with just a few walk breaks) but I had to walk the flats and uphills.

For the last several miles I had been looking at my GPS and was some kind of disappointed to see how much further I had to go. Coming in the the 5th aid station my GPS said I was at like 14. But the guy manning the aid station told me that really I was at about 17.5 or so! Finally something that picked up my spirits!

For the rest of the day I ran the downs, tried to run most of the flats (unsuccessfully I might add!) and I never even THOUGHT about running an uphill! But I did enjoy looking back at what we had just finished!

So I finished. DFL (Dead F***in' Last). Just over 7 hours . . . missing the cutoff by about two minutes. Living up to my blog's name . . . believe it or not . . . I really was hurrying! That's just sad.

This was a HARD marathon. Very hard! For the marathon distance, In my memory it was second only to the Leadville Trail Marathon (which I DNFed). Glad it's done! Oh . . . and Jimbo . . . thanks sooo much for talking me into this day of torture! :-)

And I'm still thinking about what that guy said . . .

PS - February 22 - The race posted results today and I see that a was the last finisher . . . but 4 people got disqualified due to running an alternate course and three DNFed. So I guess I BEAT seven people!!!

Oh My GOD!

2011-02-17T13:04:00.000-08:00

This weekend is the 'Pilot Mountain Payback Marathon' . . . a neat trail marathon through Pilot Mountain State Park.

The race organizers have been great so far and I was just reviewing some of the last minute instructions and a list of participants along with each participant's race number. Numbers started with #300. And I found mine . . . #339. Not great but not bad either. Pretty much average . . . okay . . . just a tad below average.

But I digress . . .

Looking down the list I just had to see who had the dreaded #357 . . . essentially my number at Uwharrie!. Got to admit I was so relieved it wasn't me I almost didn't look. But I did . . .

My buddy Jim Plant has #357!!!

Jim . . . All I can suggest is just DNS this race. Stay home. You have virtually NO CHANCE of having a good day.

The worst numbers for this race are:

#355 - Dan Pieroni
#357 - Jim Plant (essentially my Uwharrie number!)
#375 - Bill Weimer
#377 - Mark Warner

So sorry folks . . . All I can say is I'm glad I'm not you!!!! :-)

Sasquatch at Uwharrie?

2011-02-06T10:00:00.000-08:00

No . . . that's not me!

Is there really such a thing as Sasquatch - aka Bigfoot, Yeti? So much talk . . . so few facts. And no really solid sightings that you can say 'This proves that Sasquatch is out there!' I always thought all the fuss was in the Pacific Northwest. But the Uwharrie National Forest has recently become one of the key areas of focus in trying to either prove or disprove the existence of the illusive creature (assuming he / she exists at all!) Even Animal Planet is on the bandwagon! Check this out!

Before Saturday, I would have said the chances of Sasquatch being real are . . . well, quite low. But now . . . I'm not so sure. Maybe . . . just maybe Sasquatch lives in Uwharrie.

To understand where I'm coming from you have to understand my day Saturday . . . it's a long, boring story. Sorry. My suggestion is to skip this and go find another blog.

The Uwharrie Mountain Run

The event was the Uwharrie Mountain Run . . . a super cool event with three separate races: an 8 miler, a 20 miler and a 40 miler. Last year I had run the 20 miler (ended up being about 17.5 miles as they routed us around a difficult, muddy section since there had been days and days of huge rain). So I thought it was time to step up to the 40 miler. I mean . . . how hard can it be?

Friday night Ron Fleming, Scott Wingfield and I picked up our race packets at the pre-race pasta party. And we got our race numbers. Here is where it all started going wrong! Here is my number . . .

Those of you that know me know that I am a master at numerology when it comes to race numbers . . . years and years of careful study and detailed data analysis. Usually . . . just by looking at a number I can tell what kind of race your going to have. Almost infallible! And those of you that have studied under 'The Master' know that a '57' is one of the WORST POSSIBLE two digit numbers you could EVER get! The two slowest number possible and they are unbalanced . . . but I won't go into race numerology here!

With this race number, I should have never started this race! I should have volunteered to help instead of actually trying to run!

But no. I thought I . . . being the great, strong runner that I am . . . could overcome the numerology. Such a fool!

Started out the day at dawn . . . probably 34 degrees and raining cats and dogs! Perfect! Everyone was shivering and trying to get out of the rain. Sloppy, muddy, cold. (Photos compliments of Shannon Johnstone). Finally, 7 am and we were off!

At about the third mile I took a fall. Didn't seem to hurt anything. I'm relieved 'cause I 'm pretty sure I had broken my wrist on a fall at the Medoc Rerun after Thanksgiving. The wrist still hurts most of the time and I had feared falling. About 1/4 mile later . . . I fell again. Minor wrist pain. I was lucky! But these two falls started working on my mind!

(Medical Update: As it turns out, my left knee is quite sore today . . . so maybe I did do some damage . . . not cartilage but outside the joint just below the kneecap on the outside. Doesn't feel serious. Also, when I'm going uphill my right knee 'clicks' loudly . . . so loud, in fact, that people around me ask what that noise is! No pain . . . just the clicking . . . feels weird though!)

Lots of mud, rocks, hills, water, swollen stream crossing through cold water. (Even crossed a few that didn't have to be crossed . . . yea . . . screwed up! See picture below! ) Did I mention there was a lot of mud, rocks, hills, water, and swollen stream crossings? If you haven't run Uwharrie, you need to, just so you can understand! Everyone needs to run a serious trail race. Not the Umstead Marathon, New River Trail 50k or even Medoc (one of my favorites!!). All those are great, but try a serious, hard core trail race.

Thought I would get a picture of the ONLY bridge on the course!

Notice that is Jim Micheels leading us all across the creek. Unfortunately, the trail had taken a sharp left and we didn't need to cross here! But we did have to cross BACK to return to the trail!

Scott Wingfield just havin' some fun!

Things continued pretty uneventful until about mile 10-11. The rain ended and I took off my rain shell and stuffed it in my backpack.

After my two falls, I was trying to really be careful about my footing. I was going downhill and really feeling good! Making good time (for me!). Then, I find myself laying on my back . . . on the trail. Head super woozy and seeing stars! WHAT THE HELL?? What happened? Where am I? Why am I lying on the trail? What the F***!

So . . . what happened? I'm not really sure! I was running . . . and then I was waking up! There was a tree across the trail just above me. Had I just not seen it? Had I run into the tree? Or had something else happened?

I don't run all that fast, so I'm sort of wondering how that tree could have knocked me cold! I mean, how fast could I have been going? What else could have happened?

I want to state flat out that I NEVER actually saw Sasquatch. There is no way I can honestly say that Sasquatch clubbed me as I passed that tree. But is it reasonable to assume I just ran into a tree and 'cold cocked' myself totally out? Could this have happened?

I don't know. I didn't see anything and I don't remember anything. You be the judge!

Guess I just sat there on the trail for 10-15 minutes . . . until my head cleared and I felt like I could stand and walk. Eventually, the cob webs cleared and I continued on down the trail.

About ~1/2 mile later I realized my gore-tex rain jacket I had stuffed into the webbing of my pack was gone! So I turned around and headed back . . . across a big stream crossing . . . back to where I fell. Where I found my jacket!

Bonus miles!! Got to love them!

By this time I was just mentally 'DONE.' I made up my mind I was going to drop at 20. From this point on, I just struggled on. No motivation . . . no fire . . . just a walk / run fest!

Saw so many friends as they were heading back to the start on their way to a 40 finish.

Shannon Johnstone . . . just flying! And lookin' beautiful! I didn't bother taking a picture of Anthony earlier . .

One of the nicest guys in ultra running . . . Rick Grey at about his 28th mile!

By about mile 18 my head had pretty much cleared . . . and I was just a little loopy. But I really loved the last 6 miles of this course. Last year, they detoured us around this section due to mud and high water, so I didn't know how nice this section really was. It had the biggest climb of the day. Tons of mud. Twisty trails . . . and the deepest stream crossing of the day. I thought this was the hardest part of the 20, but I did love it!

So I bailed at 20 miles. I'm pretty sure they would have cut me off if I hadn't told them I was done . . . but I was done. But still smiling!

But if I ever get '57' again as a race number . . . I'll pass on the race! Bet on it!

I wonder what Sasquatch is doing today . . .

2011 Goals

2011-02-02T05:56:00.000-08:00

I almost decided to wait until the end of 2011 to declare my yearly running goals. But last night I decided that Groundhog's Day would be a good day for this.

As this year's 'Grand Popa' for 'The Royal Order of the Groundhog,' I spent the club's annual night of celebration for our special annual day of festivities - Groundhog's Day Eve I spend time in meditation and self assessment. In the midst of the sacred and mysterious 'Ceremony of the Groundhog' I decided . . . it's time! My running goals must me made public . . . the public has a right to know!

Okay, so . . . now on the the 2011 goals . . . a drum roll please!

#1. Make sure 2011 is a year of FUN in my running.

#2. Fastest Marathon - Over 5:30. Any faster and I'm sure I'm trying too hard. 2011 is totally 'The Year of Fun' and I plan to do my very best to keep this goal in mind.

#3. Number of Marathons or Ultras - Over 14. But I don't want to forget #1. Sort of got a streak going and I don't want to break it! Average at least a marathon a month.

#4, 75 miles or more at the Umstead 100.

Okay . . . there is no way I can achieve both #1 and #4. It is definitely NOT going to be fun running 75 miles or more. So this does present a problem. But my solution is simple . . . I will exempt the Umstead 100 from my yearly results. So I have to do at least 13 marathons, etc. And it will be okay for me to not have fun during this event. Simple. I make all the rules. (Plus, I reserve the right to change the rules and / or my goals at any point during the 2011 year - including 12:59 pm on December 31, 2011.)

#5. Finish 50 miles at Boogie. I haven't tried the 50 yet . . . hell, I've essentially died each time I've just done the marathon at Boogie! Not sure about #1 on this one either. I may just choose to take my backpacking equipment with me and camp out during the night and finish the next day. We'll see how all this works out, but I do have to remember goal #1. But I'm not really worried . . . if I make the rules, and if I can change my goals at any time, I'm confident this will all work out!

#6 Get at least 4 folks to try an ultra for the first time. I've got my targets set. They don't stand a change against me!!

a Father & Daughter Discussion

2011-01-21T16:33:00.000-08:00

I really don't know who to credit for the following . . . I certainly didn't write it! But this sure seems about right to me. I know my blog is a running blog . . . but sometimes stuff just leaks out!

'A Father & Daughter Discussion

A young woman was about to finish her first year of college. Like so
many others her age, she considered herself to be a very Liberal
Democrat, and among other liberal ideals, was very much in Favor of
higher taxes to support more government programs, in other Words
redistribution of wealth.

She was deeply ashamed that her father was a rather staunch
Republican, a feeling she openly expressed. Based on the Lectures that
she had participated in, and the occasional chat with a professor, she
felt that her father had for years harbored an evil, selfish desire to
keep what he thought should be his.

One day she was challenging her father on his opposition to Higher
taxes on the rich and the need for more government programs. The
self-professed objectivity proclaimed by her professors had to Be the
truth and she indicated so to her father. He responded by Asking how
she was doing in school.

Taken aback, she answered rather haughtily that she had a 4.0 GPA, and
let him know that it was tough to maintain, insisting that She was
taking a very difficult course load and was constantly studying, which
left her no time to go out and party like other people She knew. She
didn't even have time for a boyfriend, and didn't really have many
college friends, because she spent all her time studying.

Her father listened and then asked , 'How is your friend Audrey
doing?' She replied, ' Audrey is barely getting by. All she takes are
Easy classes, she never studies, and she barely has a 2.0 GPA. She Is
so popular on campus; college for her is a blast. She's always invited
to all the parties and lots of times she doesn't even show up for
classes because she's too hung over.'

Her wise father asked his daughter, 'Why don't you go to the Dean's
office and ask him to deduct 1.0 off your GPA and give it to your
friend who only has a 2.0. That way you will both have a 3.0 GPA, and
certainly that would be a fair and equal distribution of GPA.' The
daughter, visibly shocked by her father's suggestion, angrily fired
back, 'That's a crazy idea, how would that be fair! I've worked really
hard for my grades! I've invested a lot of time, and a lot of hard
work! Audrey has done next to nothing toward her degree. She played
while I worked my tail off!'

The father slowly smiled, winked and said gently, 'Welcome to The
Republican party.''

If anyone has a better explanation of the difference between
Republican and Democrat I'm all ears.

If you ever wondered what side of the fence you sit on, this is a great test!

If a conservative doesn't like guns, he doesn't buy one.
If a liberal doesn't like guns, he wants all guns outlawed.

If a conservative is a vegetarian, he doesn't eat meat..
If a liberal is a vegetarian, he wants all meat products banned for
everyone.

If a conservative is homosexual, he quietly leads his life.
If a liberal is homosexual, he demands legislated respect.

If a conservative is down-and-out, he thinks about how to better his situation.
A liberal wonders who is going to take care of him.

If a conservative doesn't like a talk show host, he switches channels.
Liberals demand that those they don't like be shut down.

If a conservative is a non-believer, he doesn't go to church.
A liberal non-believer wants any mention of God and religion silenced.
(Unless it's a foreign religion, of course!)

. . . and a loser feels like a winner!

2011-01-09T16:32:00.000-08:00

Pictures

I've never been a front runner, so I have never worried about actually winning a race. Mostly I just compete with myself . . . PRs, ARs (annual records), etc. and a few races just trying to beat friends! And I really enjoyed those competitions. Low stress and just fun times!

But now I am competing with a new competitor. And this one is one steady competitor, incredibly consistent no matter the course or condition. And this competition isn't just for fun anymore.

This competitor is the 'Ghost of Cut-off' and he is at almost every race I run. Now my total effort is simply to beat him! If I lose, I'm out of the race. . . so this is serious. Very serious indeed.

We both start every race at the same time . . . me going out faster and 'the Ghost' holding back, but running the EXACT time to make it to the race cut-off at the appointed time. All I have to do is stay just ahead of this invisible competitor. But it's getting harder and harder to do.

I have no idea why I thought for a minute that the Harbison 50k would be relatively easy.

This one did surprise me! I was expecting this to be harder then Frosty, but not all that much harder. When I saw there was a 9 hour cut-off I thought this would just be a 'cake-walk' but was I ever wrong! This one was a BEAR. Harder then Medoc but slightly easier then Uwharrie. No 'cake-walk,' that's for sure.

Just another PUD . . . (pointless up and down)

Probably 95% of the race was run on single track and for the most part you were either going up or down! A very curvy series of trails totally filled with PUDs . . . pointless ups and downs. The hills weren't long but there sure were a ton of them! I believe I counted 2 zillion! For the most part the curves were pointless too! Many, many times I would look to one side or the other and see folks running just 30 yards away, but I would run 1/4 mile to get to where they were! It messed with your mind!

This was the first year of Harbison, and RD Dan Hartley did an excellent job of both planning and execution. I'm sure Dan saw things he wants to do differently next year, but from my perspective everything was wonderful. I especially LOVED the aid stations! These were so well stocked! I can't begin to remember everything but some of the key things were: 1) hot chicken noodle soup, 2) boiled potatoes (my FAVORITE!), 3) Coke and Mt Dew, and a ton of other goodies! These were the best aid stations I've experienced!

The day was cold and very windy. Not too bad for us runners, but I sure felt bad for all the volunteers! As all us runners know, it's the volunteers that make the race possible . . . folks giving up a day of their lives just to make our day better! And I made the volunteers have to hang around a little longer then expected. Sorry folks, but thank you so much!

For this race I met Erich Chatham, my son's old roommate. Erich is really the guy that convinced me to try running an ultra . . . damn you Erich!

The race started promptly at 7:30. And Erich and I started at the very back of the pack. Our plan was to take the first loop slow and easy and then decide how hard to go lap 2. As it turned out Erich's and my pace (and my running interval) were different, so we separated after a mile or so.

By the time we came to AS #1 at about 6 miles, I knew this was NOT going to be the cake-walk I had expected! Past the aid station, the crazy curves reduced some and I like this much better. Nice ups and downs through this section until we came to AS #2. Here I saw the first person walking back to the AS and pulling out of the race!

Here the trails got much more challenging and this continued until about mile 13 or so. But from 13 to 15.5 we were mostly on forest service type roads not used for hiking. About 3/4 mile from the half-way point the leader past me on the way to his finish! That sucks every time it happens!

On purpose I didn't watch my GPS but I did at the half way point . . . 4 hours and 12 minutes! Now I was beginning to understand the 9 hour cut-off really wasn't going to be so easy! And I started thinking about 'the Ghost' behind me! I knew it would be a huge challenge to finish this in the allotted time! I was already definitely slowing down.

About two miles into the second lap a guy caught up to me and told me he was the race 'sweep'. Ahh . . . 'the Ghost' has arrived! He said I was fine but that everyone behind him was being cut-off. That got me bummed out as I realized Erich's day was done.

The 'Ghosts' name was Brian Clyburn and he was a great sweep and a really great guy! He stayed behind me and never made me feel 'pushed' (though he did keep me focused on my pace and coming cut-off times at the coming aid stations). I'm pretty sure Brian had NEVER gone that slow before! But he was nothing but supportive! Thanks Brian!

From this point on, I really just focused on the present . . . just dealing with what was there before me at that second. Not thinking at all about what was to come. As we approached the first aid station, Brian thought we had missed the cut-off. I started thinking about Erich waiting and how much more I had to go, so I started thinking I was just going to accept the DNF and head home. But it turned out I was almost 5 minutes ahead of the Ghost. So after some quick aid we quickly (a relative term for sure!) headed out towards AS #2.

Brian was very familiar with this section of the trail and kept me informed about what was coming. This was one of my favorite sections . . . nothing too tough and good footing.

Terri Hayes and the Plodder!

Got to AS #2 and found I was still just ahead of the Ghost! YESSSSSS!! Talking with the ladies at the aid station I discovered that one was Terri Hayes! Terri is an ultra running legend and a super popular ultra race director for a series of ultras in SC. I was thrilled to finally meet Terri but wished I had more time to talk with her. Hopefully some time in the future! But the Ghost wasn't stopping. He moves forward relentlessly.

Brian and I headed up Spiderwoman trail, the toughest section of the loop. I knew this was going to slow me down even more. I finally came to the realization during this section that Ghost was going to pass me before I finished. I told Brian that 9 hours was not going to happen, but that I was going to finish for sure, even if I didn't make the cut-off and he told me he would stick with me! All along the way, Brian was using his cell phone to talk with the next AS and with RD Dan so everyone knew where we were at all times!! Kind of funny!

Passed AS #3 and we were probably late, but we kept truckin'. This was the only station what was out of virtually everything. I REALLY wanted some ultra 'jet fuel' (Mt Dew or Coke) but they were out. I guzzled some water, got a gel and we were off!

The next mile and a half was still hard, but we (I) just kept 'relentlessly moving forward' as best as I could. This section had a part that I didn't even try to run . . . I almost couldn't follow the trail. Super tricky footing. The risk of falling outweighed the possible advantage of running.

Finally, we finished the section on top of another hill and came to the forest service road section. I knew the worst was finally over! And was I ever ready for this race to end!! I looked at my GPS and it said we were at 30 miles . . . just one to go! But that proved to be wrong! My GPS read 32.5 miles when we finished!

But we did finish! I believe my time was about 9 hours and 30 minutes . . . 30 minutes behind the Ghost . . . but they let me finish! Sweet!

And the crowd went WILD!!!

2010 - The Year that was . . .

2010-12-20T17:38:00.000-08:00

2010 was definitely not the the best year on record for me . . . but I'm not complaining.

While this blog is a running blog, I do want to mention two non-running personal items . . .

No pictures of Michael actually studying!!!

Son, Michael, got his Masters Degree in Environmental Engineering from Clemson University. But only one person in his class got a job by graduation . . . not Michael. He moved in with me for a few months, but has now moved to Telluride, CO to work until he can find an Environmental Engineering job. So net-net it's good, and bad, and good!

My daughter, Laurie, became the store manager for the new North Face store in Vail, CO. So proud of her! She moved to Vail just last year after graduating from College of Charleston. Got a job as an assistant manager for the North Face store in Lionshead and when they decided to open a new store in Vail Village, Laurie was asked to open and manage the new store! Wow!

Notice Laurie is wearing a Patagonia fleece!

But this is a running blog and I need to stick to running here or I'll lose the ten's of readers I have!!

For the third year in a row I've run at least a marathon a month (okay . . . 12 marathons or longer over the 12-month period). Guess that is cause for some celebration. Plus, I had two more runs that weren't 26.2 but they ran like marathons - Bays Mountain Trail 15 mile Race and the Uwharrie 20 miler. I was a 'beat' after each of these as I was after any marathon.

Anyway, running 12 marathons in 12 months really isn't much of an accomplishment. The first year I set this as a goal, I thought it would be challenging. But it really isn't all that hard.

Compare my 12 marathons with some friends' accomplishments:

Daniel Lieb completed 52 marathons+ this year. And he took some weekends off so, yes, there were several weekends where Daniel ran 2 marathons!
Jim Plant ran over 2010 miles in 2010! Finished at least two 100 miles (maybe more!)

So, to the uninformed, 12 marathons may seem like a lot, but it really pales in comparison to many.

Up to this year I had never had a DNF. Now, for the uninformed, a DNF is not a good thing! DNF stands for 'did not finish' and is something we runners all live in fear of. The longer the distance the worse it is. Failing to finish a 5k race is really no big deal. We've run many, many runs and races way longer so deciding to not finish a 5k means nothing. But that changes when you think about a marathon or longer. Here, the distance itself is the challenge. And all marathoners live in fear of failing to finish a race.

But 2010 saw me with three separate DNFs . . .

My first DNF happened in April when I failed to finish running my first 100 mile attempt. I stopped at 50 miles. But somehow that failure didn't seem harsh.

But my second DNF hurt a lot. After finishing 20 miles of the Leadville Marathon I was forced to quit since I missed the time cut-off. The hardest part was done. I felt very positive when the RD met me and told me my race was over. In hindsight I wish I had given him my race number and chip, but continued on by myself without support. But I didn't. This race is a real bugger. I doubt if I'll try it again.

DNF #3 happened at the Medoc Trail Races Re-run. I fell hard and hurt my wrist and the decision to stop at 20 miles was easy. No regrets on this DNF!

Also, the Friday after the Leadville Trail Marathon I had knee surgery. Injury happened when I got on the floor to play with my dogs . . . not running!! Surgery July 9th went super smoothly and on August 10 I ran 13 miles. Did lose fitness, but the comeback was actually fairly easy.

A few of this year's high points for me . . .

#1 - Finishing the New River Trail 50k this October. The distance wasn't the challenge but the time sure was! I had to finish in 7 hours and I just made it! I worked hard for this finish and it was quite rewarding.

#2 - Finishing the Umstead Marathon and not being dead last! The year before I had finished, but just barely made the time cut-off. This year I was safe from the cut-off and had a good finish.

#3 - Got a 'speeding ticket' for running too fast! That's right folk! A frickin' TICKET! Doesn't get much better then this.

#4 Actually won an age group award in two races!! Since I started running in about 1976 I had NEVER won an age group award in any race of any distance. Even very small races! But this year I broke through . . . well actually the 'ranks are getting thinner' each year. So there is something to be said for just showing up!!

So 2010 wasn't a bad year at all. Thinking about it now, it maybe was a pretty good year! But 2011 is going to be even better!!

61-year old runner - available for immediate adoption!

2010-12-13T14:59:00.000-08:00

If you live on Kiawah Island and have ever wanted a son, I am your man . . . er . . son!

The advantages of an older son are tremendous:

Think about the joys of having your son cut you grass, and do assorted odd jobs . . . the day he comes to your home!
I'm already potty-trained. No diaper needed . . . at least for a few more years!
You don't have to worry about getting your house trashed with a wild party when you go out of town . . .neighbors won't complain about too much noise EVER!
This son won't sleep 'till noon every day, nor will he wake you in the middle of the night to be fed.
You don't have to worry about the costs of a college education etc, as that has all been paid.
Adolescence is over! No raging hormones to deal with! And if you are considering the adoption of an older female, no worries about menopause at all!
No crazy legal papers to fill out. Just ask me and I'm yours! Just change your will to include me!

My only really bad habit is a minor running addiction.

Just post a comment on this blog if you're interested!

Now for a race report from the Kiawah Island Marathon this last weekend . . .

I first met Dave Hinshaw and Brian Wilcox at about the 7 mile point of the 2007 Richmond Marathon. Obviously, they aren't a very discerning pair and are not good judges of character, as the three of us struck up a friendship and have stayed in touch ever since. Dave and I later ran the OBX marathon in 2009 and Brian and I met up at Boogie in 2010 where I get my annual dose of humble pie!.

The fourth member of the this year's crew was Dave's brother, John, who was doing his first marathon!

Four friend, three goals and two successes! And a really fun weekend!

Let's get the bummers out of the way right off!

Brian Wilcox didn't qualify for Boston! Missed it by a measly 32 seconds! and
Dave Hinshaw didn't get the PR he was hoping for.

But the big deal was John completed his first marathon!! Now, THAT is a big deal!

Friday Afternoon -

The four of us descended on John's Kiawah home Friday afternoon. For me, finally getting there was quite a relief: 1) my brand new heat pump quite working the afternoon before I left and temps were in the 20s, 2) my daughter was having a kidney stone trying to pass and 3) I had car trouble on the way to Kiawah.

Once there we went to pickup our packets and John drove us around the course. Nice and flat! There is nothing quite like the excitement of someone doing their first marathon! John was actually pretty calm and cool about the coming race, but you could still sense his excitement . . . reading compulsively from some marathon guide book for last minute tips! I loved hearing he and Dave talk about all the hints they had read! I can't believe all the things I've been doing wrong! :-)

We decided to cook dinner at John's house and hit the bed early for a 5 am wake up to guarantee us good parking.

Saturday -
Up a five, showers, breakfast and we headed to the race! Since John is a homeowner we had great access and parked about a two minute walk from the start!! NICE!

Brian, Dave and John Saturday AM before we started!

Temperatures were in the high 40s and a light rain. About 30 minutes before the race started, the rain intensity picked up to a steady rain . . . not heavy at first, but we were all drenched the first 13 miles.

Kiawah is definitely an beautiful, upscale place. hundreds and hundreds of beautify homes broken by picturesque salt marshes, lagoons and golf courses. Sensory overload! Nice course and one of the best organized races I've been to. Everything was just 'easy.' But a marathon is still a marathon. None are easy.

I should have worn gloves but I didn't think it was that cold! But at about mile 4 I picked up a pair of gloves someone had thrown down! Sweet! They helped a lot, but I was cool all day long!

At about mile 7 or so I met Jennifer Swain from Atlanta who was making Kiawah her first marathon. Jennifer and I were back and forth all day and she ended up beating me by 1 second though our clock time was 30 seconds apart!

The first loop was uneventful with all the 1/2 marathoners keeping us company. Once we started the second lap things got sparse fairly quickly. Just after the turn, I met Carolyn Smith, a neat young pharmacist from St. John's Island, SC doing her first marathon. So Carolyn joined me running 3 minutes and walking one, while Jennifer held her running 2 1/2 minutes and walking one. and the three of us wound our way through the island.

Carolyn, Dave and John just havin' fun!

Jenn, Me and Carolyn at 18

At about mile 18 or so we caught up with Dave and John. Had the take the expected pictures and we all continued on. Carolyn and I soon decided to change two a 2/1 interval and we moved ahead somewhat. By mile 22 Carolyn started suffering and fell back but Jenn and I pushed on. Actually, Jenn pulled ahead quite far but I did manage to close the gap some by the end!

A good day for me . . . 5:33. Carolyn was just behind finishing her first marathon in 5:43.

And just behind Carolyn came Dave and John . . . brother's staying together the whole way and holding hands crossing the finish line! Very Cool!!

John and Dave at the finish!!

As I was coming to the finish, Brian joined me the the finish line and told me the news about missing Boston by 32 seconds. I was soooooo disappointed for him but still a 13 minute PR is totally awesome!!

Brian, John, Dave and I once the pain ended!!

To celebrate, that night John took Dave, Brian and I to dinner at 'Cassique' . . . for one of the best meals I've ever had! It is hard to imagine just how good mash potatoes can be!! And short ribs . . . my goodness!So much fun with these three guys!

More pictures

2010 Medoc Trail Marathon Re-Run

2010-11-28T08:08:00.000-08:00

The weather was perfect! Cold but not really uncomfortable . . . and not windy! Probably 40 folks showed up to run. The majority were planning to do the 10-milers but a few hardy souls were there for the full 26.2.

Here is most everyone! Like herding cats!!

I got there early as set up our semi-aid station. The big surprise was Margaret Bentley! Though Margaret was injured and couldn't run, she had brought hot coffee, hot donuts and sausage biscuits . . . FOR EVERYONE! Thank you so much Margaret!!

We did the road out-and-back sections first so by the time we were on the trail everyone was spread out. Russ Hensley was planning to do about 10 miles and decided to hang with me on my first lap (so he wouldn't get lost!!). Really nice to have company!

It quickly became clear just how many leaves were on the trail. As we were going up the rocky section near the Dam site you couldn't even see the rocks!! But they were still there! All day long almost every step was an adventure! If you've run Medoc before the leaves have dropped you really can't imagine just how hard it is in late November! The added mental side makes the whole run way harder!

Russ and I at the bridge.

Russ and I stopped at the shelter at the ~5 mile point to re-supply and grab ANOTHER donut and sausage biscuit! Down along the creek we saw Richard (from Greenville) coming the wrong way! I still can't quite figure out how he got to where he was, but he was definitely turned around! So he joined us for the next 2 miles back to the shelter. Took spill #1 near the Bluff. Nothing hurt but my pride!

Once we got to the field, Russ and Richard turned to the picnic shelter, and I continued on. Plugged in the IPod and enjoyed some music along the way. Coming down the rocks near dam site, I took spill number 2. This one scrambled my brain some, so I just sat there for a few minutes to clear the cob webs.

Everything was fine as I continued on over the summit, down the fire road and back to the creek. Felt good and strong at this point. I took several pictures and just was enjoying my time in the woods.

But as I neared the bridge I tripped again. No 'tuck and roll', no 'gentle slide'. This was a thud! And I knew wasn't so lucky this time. Not only did it scramble my brain again, but this time I knew I had hurt my wrist / hand. Finally got up and started running again, but now with every step I could feel the beat of my heart in my thumb! Not good at all.

Got back to the picnic shelter and saw Charles West there saying he was done . . . just not having a good day at all! I talked Charles into doing the Bluff Loop with me. By this time I was beat . . . mentally and even a little physically! Charles and I called it a day at 17.5 miles.

Just my second DNF . . . twice this year. The first one bothered me a lot, but this one not so much. Running just killed my wrist and I really didn't want to risk another fall. So I'm fine with my decision to quit.

I did enjoy seeing everyone finish their marathons! Since I am usually one of the last finishers, this is a part I usually miss! So much fun!

Certainly, Medoc is no cakewalk. It is a hard run. But with the leaves like they were it just adds an additional mental challenge.

Here are all the pictures I took.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T05:47:00.000-08:00

I have so much to be thankful for . . . don't we all??

To have families that love us . . . even with all our warts! And who are healthy, wealthy and wise . . . well . . . maybe not all three!
To live in America!
To have Americans that make sure our freedoms remain our freedoms!
To have plenty . . . of everything really!
To just be alive and enjoy life. Maybe in total health but maybe not 100%. Either way, we are lucky to still be . . .
To have friends that just make each day better

I'm sure I could go on and on, but those are the big one's for me this morning.

City of Oaks Marathon

2010-11-09T17:31:00.000-08:00

Bottomline: I loved it! Good day all around!

Now, for those of you that simply don't have anything better to then read this boring blog, here is a little more detail.

I only decided to run this one at the last minute. After Ridge to Bridge last Saturday, the top of my big toe was sore and I hadn't run. But I thought it was feeling somewhat better. Late Friday afternoon, Michael Forrester asked it I wanted in and I said "Sure!" thinking it would be virtually impossible at such a late date. But then he said, "Your race number 768!" Oh . . . . well . . . I guess I'm doing it! A little 'shoe surgery' and I felt like I had a good chance (Turns out I may do a career change and become a 'shoe surgeon' full time!! My toe really didn't bother me much at all!)

The 'important business' lines!

Sunday was a cold fall morning, so I found my way to the parking area before 6 am and then just stayed in my car with the heater going! Nice! About 6:25 I headed to the start area, took care of some important business and just had a few minutes until the race started. Only RMEC member saw was Eric Seale! But other were there. Just before the start I saw Susan Dumar and her friend, Lindsey, who I had met at Medoc! That was pretty much the only person that I knew until I saw Ben Dillion as I was entering Umstead! Even at the finish I saw no one I knew, except the folks I had met during the day!

Lindsey and Susan at the start

A satisfied Heed Drinker!

The City of Oaks marathon course is great! No really spectacular scenery, but no ugly spots either! Nice gently rolling course and the hills are fairly gentle. Half marathoners miss the nicest sections, so next year you all need to step up to the full and see the whole course!

And the race organization seems to have done an excellent job with every detail save one . . . I really hate their electrolyte replacement drink - Heed! Nasty tasting stuff . . . but not as bad as some drink they had a Grandma's Marathon a few years ago! And I learned I liked the Hammer Gels . . . especially 'apple pie!'

I felt good from the very start of this race! But I am now more convinced then ever that something very strange happened the week before at the Ridge to Bridge Marathon (R2BM)! Ridge to Bridge is essentially an all down hill race from about mile 6 on. How could I have gotten as tired as I was and finished with a 5:46 at R2BM? Then, just one week later, run a 5:32 at City of Oaks and and felt like I could have turned around and run it again? 15 minutes lost at R2BM!! No way!

The answer is simple: something supernatural happened the week before, as the last part of the R2BM ran at the base of Brown Mountain, the home of the Brown Mountain Lights!. (see my previous post if you missed this!). That is where the lost 15 minutes is! Either that or I was abducted by aliens at R2B . . . but they obviously wanted none of me and sent me back!

I've been thinking about Ridge to Bridge . . .

2010-11-01T18:21:00.000-07:00

For the last two days, what happened to me at the Ridge to Bridge Marathon has haunted me.

Okay, this isn't a Halloween post . . . this is serious.

While I admit I made some strategic mistakes at the R2B (see my prior post!) I wasn't that bad!

I had some issues around mile 7 that took a significant amount of time, so I tried to 'make up' time on the long down-hill section of the race. But I felt like I did fairly well, passing the 13.1 mile point in about 2:27 and continued on to mile 15 at virtually the same pace. Between 15 and 18 I slowed but pretty much held a 3 minute run and a 1 minute walk. And from 18 on I just mixed running and walking as I could.

I admit I was struggling after 18, but I did still keep some good running in the mix.

When I was at about mile 17 I did some calculations and felt like I still was still going to be able to at least do a 5:25 marathon. At mile 20 that estimation slipped to about a 5:30. But when I finally finished the marathon, I crossed the line with a 5:47!! And I don't believe I slowed up much at all after mile 20.

So what happened to the extra 17 minutes? Where did that time go?

I've replayed this over and over in my mind and there was just no logical answer . . . until I remembered where it was we were running!

We ran down Jonas Ridge to Wilson Creek . . . the same Wilson Creek that drains Brown Mountain!

Maybe you have heard of the Brown Mountain lights. Here is another link.

These strange lights have been seen for centuries. Essentially on some nights, folks can look over to Brown Mountain and see lights moving along the mountain. (Here is a link to a video). There has been lots and lots of efforts to explain these lights but to date there has been no solid explanation. The Brown Mountain lights a mystery!

Now, as far as I know no one has linked the phenomenon of the Brown Mountain lights with any unusual or unexplained time warps. Nor have there been any reports of the time / space continuum being distorted around Brown Mountain. But these have never been either studied or investigated. Who knows? All we know for sure is that strange things happen on Brown Mountain!

Could I have been caught up in some freak, strange time warp that occurred Saturday afternoon?
Was there some sort of cosmic disturbance that focused a strange energy for 17 minutes on Brown Mountain?

Who knows. All I know is I lost 17 minutes I can't account for.