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Sent: Thursday, April 14, 2005 8:22 AM
Subject: Incline Club V9 LR #21, TH #2
Howdy ICers,
Yes, a newsletter two weeks in a row!!! Amazing what can be accomplished with some free time:-)
First, I have caught up on all of the “R” reports that have been submitted so far this season. Please check the * board to make sure you got credit for your race. The reports that have not been posted before are below.
Next, I have also (and at last) compiled all your 2004 Pikes Peak A/M/D “things done right/things done wrong stories.” In some respects the delay might be good in that while they were written while the races were still fresh in your minds, reading them now with only 127 days till the races may do you more good. They are here: http://www.skyrunner.com/story/p_stories_04.htm
A couple of things that jumped out at me as I compiled them are the number of people complaining about crowding and the number of people who say they did not do enough, or long enough, long runs. While you can’t do much about the crowding (other than just expect it) there is plenty of time to get in long runs.
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Quite a few e-mails this week asking for credit for last Sunday’s run even though the writers could not make it due to the Blizzard! I feel your pain… However, a “B” is already being used on the “*” board by the Barr Trail Mountain Race. Therefore, I have decided to award an “NT” for “Nice Try” to everyone in the club who did not show last Sunday. Unfortunately, there is only room for one letter per run on the board so just know deep in your little stay-at-home hearts that when you see a blank space for last Sunday by your name it is the space between the letters “NT.” The “NT” is really there, I promise, but you just can’t see it. Oh, and by the way, the * counter program does not count spaces so I am sorry to say that your “NT” will not affect the rankings either…
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Was it awesome to get back to the Thursday runs or what? I don’t know about you, but even though we did Hydro Hell repeats easy since it was our first time this season they seemed like it the were quite a bit steeper than last year. On that note, someone asked why we do the Hydro repeats. I figured it was a good enough question to put some thoughts here — in no particular order; 1) They build strength and speed because they are short and intense. 2) They work on your finish kick since they are at the end of a hard workout. 3) It’s not good to end up a run on such a long downhill so it helps you unwind. Ever notice how the first couple seem to be the hardest and then they seem to get easier and faster? Well until we start doing 10 :-O 4) They are an excellent time to work on, and practice your form. Look straight ahead, not down. Good cadence etc. 5) Its sorta fun to take over Hydro Street as a group and at the same time it is also neat to be able to encourage each other to push!
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Well, I should stop now because as you will see there are a LOT of “R” reports below and again don’t forget the PPA/M/D stories at http://www.skyrunner.com/story/p_stories_04.htm
See you today and Sunday!
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NEXT RUNs:
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Thursday, April 14, 5:45pm — Hydro Street
Warm up from Memorial Park. Leave the park in time to get to Hydro Street on time. Do a 30 minute tempo run up the Barr Trail or to No Name Creek, whichever comes first. After an easy run back down the Barr Trail do 2 easy and 2 hard Hydro Street hill repeats. Cool down back to the park.
Sunday, April 17, 8:00am — Memorial Park
Barr Camp (or higher) and back via the Barr Trail. Bring $ if you need water at Barr Camp. 2-3.5 hours.
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ICers WRITE:
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Teresa and Neal Taylor write:
Looks like we will shoot for the 24th of April for the 7th annual Van Feed.
After the normal run, join us at our westie van in the parking lot by the creek for breakfast! Friends and family welcome and encouraged. Great time to get to know your fellow IC’ers! No need to bring anything but yourself. Pancakes of various sorts, as well as other surprises! Run hard, come hungry! Silly human tricks welcome as well!
(Matt C adds: Remember to bring some goodies to share with everyone else - cookies, bananas, brownies, juice, whatever…)
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Fred Wright passes on the following:
Here is some info on a fundraising effort for the outgoing caretakers of Barr Camp to aid them in their transition to the real world — http://www.barrcamp.com/caretakers.html
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R REPORTS:
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Anita Bower reports:
Race = Umstead 100
Location = Umstead State Park, Raleigh NC
Date = April 2 & 3 2005
Distance = 100 miles
Goal = under 27 hours
Results = about 27 hour 47 minutes
Website = http://ncroadrunners.org
General = The Umstead 100 is a very runnable loop course. An excellent well organized race, good for a first time 100, or a first 100 of the year. This year there were only 8 loops, with a little more climbing than last year.
Right = Kept stuff down. Raw foods really helped, along with taking digestive enzymes to help with the cabs. Took NO Hammer Gel, which has become way too sweet for me. Protein taken during the race paid off big-time later on and after the race, as the legs felt strong throughout. The last loop was faster than the two before it. Carried LOTS of rain gear, and had three other pairs of shoes, which I used, because my feet blistered badly in the 12 hours of rain and cold fronts that poured during the first 12 hours of the race.
Wrong = Jet lagged. I felt it badly after 10 at night, until it got light the next day. I almost fell in a ditch, turned out the headlamp I was wearing was making me dizzy, so I just turned it off, and ran with my pacer, who was great. Even a cold wet trail seemed appealing to sleep on for about 5 hours.
Other Stuff = I won the “pissing contest” between my pacer, and another unfortunate runner who happen to run with us for a few hours. Somehow the cool night air has a way of doing that to me. The guys appeared really threatened by my natural ability, so not to be undone, they drank up at the aid stations, and outdid me during the morning hours. That’s what I love about this sport. Where else can you have a pissing contest for 8 hours with someone who was once a complete stranger, and subsequently make a new friend?
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Charles Scheibe reports:
Race = 28th Annual Capitol 10,000
Location = Austin, Texas
Date = April 3, 2005
Distance = 10K
Goal = sub 50
Results = 50:34
Website = http://www.statesman.com/sports/content/cap10k/
General = 13,000 participants, many in costumes, running up Congress Avenue and hilly streets just west of downtown, finishing on the shores of Town Lake. Clear skies and temps in the 50s and 60s.
Right = Took the time to enjoy the trip and visit with old friends in Houston and in Austin.
Wrong = Lack of sleep leading up to race day. Overslept morning of the race. Inadequate warm up. Burned off most of my adrenalin making it to the starting line on time. Got caught up in the excitement and went out too fast. Unable to loosen up tight muscles during 5th and 6th miles.
Other Stuff = Completed 28th straight Capitol 10,000 — which is sponsored by the local newspaper — the Austin American-Statesman. The initial race had a 55 minute cut-off in order to receive a race shirt. I’ve managed to run 49 minutes or better 24 times and have always managed to finish under the 55 minute standard imposed in the first running.
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Theresa Pitman reports:
Race = The Platte River Half Marathon
Location = Littleton, CO
Date = 4/3/05
Distance = 13.1 miles
Goal = use it as part of my 20 mile long run
Results = 1:49, right on with my marathon goal pace
Website = http://platteriverhalf.com
General = Very flat course until the end. Very pretty along the Platte River on a nicely paved trail. I ran 30 minutes before and 40 minutes after to get in my long run for the Salt Lake City marathon on April 23, 2005. I ended up running the race at my marathon goal pace of 8:19. So hopefully with a good taper I can do that pace in 3 weeks.
Other Stuff = Great dri-fit long sleeved t-shirt, finish line cookout and train ride back to the start.
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Joe and Brenda Cowell report:
Race = Tri-State
Location = Utah, Arizona, finished in Mesquite Nevada
Date = 3-26-05
Distance = 26.2 mile
Goal = Improve over time in New Orleans
Results = Improved by 13 minutes
General = Early morning start. Bus left Mesquite at 4:00 am Mesquite time. Full moon rising over desert was a lifetime memory. Paved the whole way but the desert was in full bloom and green for the first time in local memory.
Right = Been training consistently and trying to get the weight down.
Wrong = The Friday night buffet at the casino was probably not a good idea but man it was good.
Other Stuff = We are attempting to run 12 marathons in 12 months and better our time each race. So far so good.
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Mike Shafai reports:
Location = Kahului, Hawaii (Maui)
Date = 03/26/2005
Distance = 36 Mile Relay (12 miles per runner)
Goal = Have fun a get a cool t-shirt
Results = Had fun, got a cool t-shirt, and a very cool medal
Website = http://www.virr.com/run_2_sun.html
General = Run to the Sun is a 36 mile run from Kahului (near the Maui Airport) to the top of Haleakala (which means “House of the Sun” in Hawaiian). The course is entirely paved and is run along the steepest paved road in America. The race is entirely uphill, beginning at sea level and climbing to a summit elevation of 10053 ft.
Runners can either do it solo, or do it as a 3-person relay. Because I’m a wuss, I opted for the relay (I was also recovering from my marathon the weekend before). The race director was kind enough to connect me with two other runners seeking relay partners. One woman was from Alaska, also on vacation in Maui with her spouse and two kids. The other woman was a local runner. She was also a board member of the Valley Isle Road Runners (who organized the event), which was nice since she knew the area, the course, and many of the people involved in the race.
Right = Since the goal was to just have fun, that was the main focus. I got to drive the shuttle van (until it was my turn to run).
The race started at 4:30AM, which meant getting up at 3AM. Since I was still on California/Colorado Time (somewhere in between the two), this was not an issue for me.
Our Alaska teammate got to start it off. It was absolutely pouring at the start, and of course, it was pitch black. I felt sorry for her as she headed off down the dark road into the sugar cane fields. My other partner and I drove to the relay hand-off spot and drank hot coffee in the dry car :)
Although we started at 4:30AM, it wasn’t my turn to run until around 9:15AM. My teammates and I decided that I should get the last two legs, which covered the higher elevations. I started at around 6500 feet and ran around 12 miles to the finish.
Although my legs were minorly sore from the marathon the weekend prior, they seemed to hold up just fine for the shorter distance. It felt like a faster-paced IC Sunday run.
After running for over a week at sea level, it actually felt great to run in the cooler air up top. I ended up passing a bunch of runners during my leg, most of whom were “sea level dwellers".
Our team ended up getting first place for “Mixed Relay.” More importantly, we all had a blast.
If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii during Spring Break time in future years, I recommend trying to work this into your schedule. The views and the scenery are incredible!
Wrong = Nothing... had a lot of fun. The weather could have cooperated more, since it was cloudy and rainy during much of the race.
Other Stuff = Saw lots of rainbows on the way up the mountain. We also saw quite a few ‘nene’ once we got into the park. (Haleakala is a National Park). Nene is a rare type of Hawaiian goose that is on the endangered species list.
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Joel Jenkins reports:
Race = Run to the Sun
Location = Haleakala, Maui
Date = 26 March 2005
Distance = 36.2 miles
Goal = 9:50
Results = 9:58
Website = http://www.virr.com
General = Excellent race with wonderful support and many well stocked aid stations. Sea level to 10,000 feet, only one hill in the entire race! Much like Pikes Peak. Started off rainy and cold (relative to life in Hawaii of course) and stayed that way for most of the race.
Right = Didn’t carry my entire stash of running gear in my camelbak. ate as I ate when i trained, in fact, did everything the same as I trained so it was like a really long training run.
Wrong = didn’t grab my hat and gloves for the top 3,000 foot elevation gain because we were told it was warm and not very windy up above 8,000 feet, they were wrong!
Other Stuff = This is a great first ultra for anyone wishing to try. The Valley Isle Road Runners and the Hawaiian Ultra Running Team put on a great race, very low-key with minimal stress. Nice shirt and finisher award. The award is hand made by a local pottery artist.
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Andy Dillon
Race = Tri-State Marathon
Location = Mesquite,NV
Date = Mar 26th, 2005
Distance = Marathon
Goal = 4 hours
Results = 3:53:50
Website = http://www.tristatemarathon.com/index.cfm
General = My first marathon — this one appealed because it was early in the season, the weather would be cool, and there was also a half marathon which Jane wanted to do. In my only other attempt at a full marathon (American Discovery Trail in 2002) I dropped out at mile 21 — this time I HAD to finish!
Right = Trained primarily on the Santa Fe Trail, parking at Woodmen and running North through the Air force Academy. I built up the weekly long run from 12 miles up to a longest run of 23 miles, adding a couple of miles per week. This certainly helped.
I set a pace and stuck to it — 9 minute mile pace. The first few miles were downhill, and I was actually going at 8 minute mile pace, but it felt about the right level of intensity. Later there were some uphill miles, and these took 10 minutes each, so it all worked out.
Towards the end there were some uphill sections, and I found myself passing everybody around me with ease. This was certainly Incline Club training kicking in — it was a great feeling!
Wrong = Ended up eating a huge pasta meal rather late the night before the race. This was not ideal, but when you are staying in hotels it isn’t always easy to eat what you want when you want it!
Other Stuff = This was a low-key but fun race — only about 150 people in total in the Marathon and about the same in the half marathon. The half marathon started at the half way point of the course so everyone finished at the same place.
At the beginning it was cold and dark, and everyone sat around bonfires trying to stay warm. Then when the race started the sun rose over the mountains and it was pretty spectacular. Lots of people were saying it was the most scenic race they had ever done — I thought to myself they haven’t been to Colorado ...
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Steve Bremner reports:
Race = Ocean Drive Marathon
Location = Cape May, New Jersey
Date = March 20th, 2005
Distance = 26.2 miles
Goal = sub 3hrs
Results = 3:02
Website = http://www.odmarathon.com/
General = The Ocean Drive Marathon is a point to point marathon running from the southernmost point of the New Jersey coast at Cape May northwards along the seashore to Sea Isle City. To my consternation after arriving in Cape May I realized that I had Inadvertently signed up to run two races last weekend: the first race was the marathon. The second was the race to the airport.
Normally marathons start somewhere between 0630 and 0730, so I had long ago booked the return flight from Philadelphia for 1345, thinking I’d have plenty of time to run the race, shower, and make my way from the New Jersey coast to the Philadelphia airport. It wasn’t until Friday when I re-checked the race web site that I noticed that the race start time was set for 0900. A quick check of mapquest.com showed that the time required to drive from the race ending point in Sea Isle City, NJ to the Philly airport would be 1 hour 18 minutes. Yikes! That meant that if I ran a 3 hour marathon, immediately jumped into the car and raced to the airport I’d have approximately twenty minutes to turn in the rental car, ride the shuttle to the airport, make it through security, and dash to the gate before the flight closed ten minutes before take off. To make a long story short, that’s exactly what we did. I ran a 3:02 marathon, was driving down the turnpike less than five minutes later, weaving in and out of traffic 80-85 MPH, pulled into the rental car dropoff area after 1 hour 8 minutes driving time, just made the shuttle as it pulled out, dashed to security (we had printed our boarding passes the day before) where for the first time in memory there was NO LINE--what luck! I had separated the problem items that normally catch me, like coins and bottle openers, and we sailed through easily. As we approached the gate, a mere 100 yards further, we heard with relief “This is the final boarding call for flight 5646 to St Louis".
Right = Kept putting on the brakes to ensure I didn’t blow up and could finish close to 3 hours.
Wrong = Didn’t check the starting time for the race before I bought my plane tickets.
Other Stuff = Cape May is an attractive old-time resort town build in the Victorian Era. If you are going to run the marathon spend a few extra dollars to stay here.
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Rebekka Hannula reports:
Race = Ocean Drive 10 Miler
Location = Cape May, NJ
Date = March 20, 2005
Distance = 10 Miles
Goal = 1:20
Results = 1:22:27
Website = http://odmarathon.com
General = A point to point 10 miler on a mostly flat course.
Right = I kept a nice even pace.
Wrong = Need to learn how to tie my shoes !Both shoes came undone. Should have trained harder.
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Adam Feerst reports:
Race = Queen Charlotte Classic
Location = Marlborough Sound, South Island, New Zealand
Date = March 19, 2005
Distance = 44.3km (27.5mi), 4,900’ of climbing
Goal = Have fun. Get a good workout. Compete hard.
Results = 4:19:02. 2nd place. Had a good workout. Didn’t compete hard.
Website = http://www.coolrunning.co.nz/races/charlotte/index.html
General = When I was planning my honeymoon trip to New Zealand, of course I looked for races to do. I found this race and contacted the race directors. They were very helpful answering questions and letting me pay on race day. It was pre-registration only, but it’s hard getting NZ$ from here.
The race was in the middle of our 2-week trip. It gave us a chance to view the Marlborough Sound along one of the more popular tramping (NZ for trekking) tracks. We were going to do it as a relay, but my wife hurt her knee, so I decided to do it solo.
I came down with a cold earlier in the week, so I didn’t know how I would feel during the race. Thus, I started out conservatively.
I came through the first leg (of the relay), 20.7km, in 1:51. Surprisingly, I was told I was in 2nd place, about 8 min behind the leader. I knew that the 3rd place solo runner was just a minute or so behind me. I thought that if I picked up the pace a little, and the lead runner faded, I might be able to run him down.
I started a little harder on the second leg. I could still feel the effects of the cold and didn’t have a lot of energy. After about 2:45, at the one sections where you could see well ahead and behind, when it was clear that I hadn’t picked up any ground on the leader, and probably lost ground, and had built a big lead on the 3rd place runner, I decided to shut it down and just cruise easily to the finish. I walked the steep uphills. And, after twisting my ankle about 10 times, I even took it easy on the downhills.
About 1/2 — 3/4 mi from the finish, the first 2 relay runners caught me. They started the leg 2 runners en masse after I had come through. I let the first one go. When I heard the second one coming, I decided to see if I could hold him off. I consider myself a very good downhill runner, but he blew by me and was quickly out of sight. I don’t know whether they are just a lot better in NZ, or I didn’t have a lot of spare energy, or I couldn’t turn it on quickly after having turned it off for ~1:30.
One more note: Racing flats don’t work well on muddy trails. I was slipping and sliding down many of the steeper descents.
Right = Started conservatively until I saw how I felt, after being sick during the week. Backed off when it was clear that I wasn’t going to win. I was in NZ to have fun. I didn’t want to get really sick or injured and ruin the rest of the vacation.
Wrong = Get sick before the race.
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Anita Bower reports:
Race = Catalina Island Marathon
Location = Catalina Island CA
Date = March 19, 2005
Distance = 26.2 miles
Goal = finish
Results = finished
General = I would definitely not recommend this to anyone running their first marathon. The course was beautiful, but unmarked. The front runners got lost. The aid stations were poor at best. Gatorade, water, Cliff shots, pretzel sticks, and gummy bears were about it, and you were lucky to get that depending on which aid station you were at.
Right = Brought my own stuff. Didn’t aggravate any old injuries, since I am running the Umstead 100 in two weeks. Enjoyed the scenery, (translation: moved very slowly).
Wrong =
Other Stuff = Race was way over priced for what you got: a cheap cotton shirt, and a cheap medal. I’ve done 50 and hundred milers where I’ve gotten way more, not that I run races for the “stuff.” It is nice, however, to get something decent for your efforts.
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Mike Shafai reports
Race = Catalina Marathon
Location = Catalina Island, CA
Date = March 19, 2005
Distance = 26.2M
Goal = 3:43:59
Results = 3:48:08
Website = http://www.pacificsportsllc.com
General = The course is a point to point race that winds from Two Harbors to Avalon. To get to the start line, runners take a ferry boat at 5AM to the other side of Catalina Island, then they run home.
The course is very hilly, about 95% trail, and typically offers great views of the Pacific. This year was a little different, given the fact that we were socked in with clouds and it rained for much of the race. Between miles 18 and 23, the mud became somewhat of a factor, because the rain came down harder on that side of the island (primarily because of the higher elevation in that area, which traps the clouds coming in from the west).
Overall, I had a blast and once again, I’m looking forward to next year. Catalina is definitely one of the funnest races on the planet, given its unique location, the wonderful scenery, and the laid back demeanor of the people who are attracted to this race.
Right = I felt I was well-trained. I hydrated enough, got plenty of sleep, and ate a good breakfast.
Wrong = I may have gone out too fast, too early, for the conditions. Through mile 19, I was on pace to finish in around 3:30, which would have placed me at 3rd in my age group (which is where I finished last year). Although I was well hydrated, my legs started cramping up when I hit the pavement section from mile 19-20. I had to stop and stretch several times and I had to slow down my pace. I ended up 5th in my age group and 35th overall, when at one point in the race, I was in 20th place overall. Bummer!
Other Stuff = It was great to see fellow IC-ers, Bob McAndrews and Doug Laufer out there as well!
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Richard Hedlind reports
Race = Boston’s run to remember
Location = Boston, MA
Date = 03/13/05
Distance = 13.1 miles (half marathon)
Goal = <1h45min (8 min pace)
Results = 1h44m17s
Website = http://www.bostonsruntoremember.org
General = A nice half marathon on the streets of Boston to honor fallen Police officers. Boston had a small winter storm the day before, so the roads were wet but runnable. The cool air was easy to breathe. 8000 people showed up to run. Way more than the race officials had anticipated but it the race went smoothly.
Right = I paced myself very well. I wanted to complete the race in 8min/mile pace and ended up doing 7.58min/mile pace. Ate GU every half hour and brought my waist camelback so I did not have to stop at the aid stations.
Wrong = Slept only 6 hours the night before. Did not run much in my new shoes before the race so I got blisters. I am always afraid to hit the wall and stay conservative too far into the race, which means I still have more to give at the finish. But I met my goal so I should not be sad.
Other Stuff = A nice course running through parts of downtown Boston. Very flat with one big uphill and downhill. Used by many runners as a fitness check for Boston marathon.
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Gordon Neal reports:
Race = Old Pueblo 50
Location = Tucson, AZ
Date = March 5, 2005
Distance = 50 miles
Goal = finish
Results = dropped at 33 miles
General = The race directors have turned a small race that I regularly participated in and even directed a couple of times into one of the premier midwinter trail runs in the Rockies. I bought my tickets to do this run last October and started training in mid December. When training with the Incline club on January 2nd I slipped on the Barr trail and landed flat on my back. On previous years I had always used shoe screws. At the end of last year I threw away the shoes that I had put screws in so I would be forced to get new screws this year. I kept meaning to buy them but I found I was always thinking about this at 6AM on Sunday mornings. Although I knew I had hurt myself pretty bad when I fell I was able to get myself home under my own power. When I got home my wife looked at me and asked what was wrong. I told her that I had better go get x-rayed. The x-rays showed that I had 4 broken ribs. I missed work for a week and slept sitting up for 2 weeks. I didn’t run a step for a month. In the 9 weeks before this 50 mile race I only got a total of 76 miles of running in. A week before the race I decided that even if it was going to be the slowest race of my life I was going to try it anyways. The race started relatively warm but was cloudy enough that heat wasn’t going to be a problem. I had forgotten how rough the trail was in places and knowing that a fall could easily re-break my ribs, I ran extremely cautiously. I reached the 25 mile mark almost exactly one hour slower than the last time I ran this course and was debating if I wanted to run into the dark hours. The race has a 15 hour cutoff so I don’t think that was going to be a problem. About a half mile after I left the 25 mile aid station. we got hit by a cold soaking rainshower and I knew I was going to be quitting. From here on out I started really enjoying the run. I knew that the 33 mile aid station was only about 3 miles from the start/finish line so I could cut out there and finish about the same time as the front runners. The showers kep t cycling through with increasing intensity. A particularly heavy shower hit about an hour after I finished. If I had continued I would have been running through a cold wet night and would probably not been in any condition to get to work on Monday. I think I will be trying again next year but without the fall on the Barr Trail.
Right = Decide to try to run any ways. It is a beautiful course and I really enjoyed what I was able to run. When I came to the decision at 25 miles that I was not going to finish, I really started to enjoy myself and the country I was running through.
Wrong = Not used shoe screws when running on the Barr trail in January.
Other Stuff = If you are looking for a good ultra in the early March timeframe I highly recommend this run. It has grown to around 125 runners, but it looks like it may fill early in upcoming years.
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Anita Bower reports:
Race = Old Pueblo 50
Location = Sonoita AZ (out in the middle of nowhere)
Date = March 5, 2005
Distance = 50 miles
Goal = under 11 hours
Results = 12:28:?? (injured)
Website = http://ultrazone.us/J100
General = OP50 is a great race. Well organized by ultrarunners Duane and Julie Arter. Very well marked! Even I couldn’t get lost. This race has everything. Beautiful views, wild flowers galore, wild life, rocks, stream beds, stream crossings, valleys, canyons, long climbs, quad-busting downhills, a nice finishers dinner, a beautiful buckle, and a cactus! No stupid hoopla either!
Right = Kept going. My ankle hurt so bad I was reduced to a 2 mph pace for about two hours. It hurt at the start, but the pain diminished when I ran, (when it hurts, speed up!)but on the difficult, rocky downhills I had to slow down, (wouldn’t want to fall and break a nail)and the pain started kicking in. Then it started to hail and thunder. At least hail bounces off you and doesn’t soak you. At the 33 mile aid station I almost quit, but a former fellow Badwater runner was working the aid station and encouraged me to keep going. “You have 15 hours!” he said. Half a mile down the road the pain just vanished. I’d never had anything like that happen before. My ankle has hurt for two months, and then poof! no pain. It still doesn’t hurt. So I guess there was an important lesson to be learned; ultras are unpredictable! Both the good times and the bad times can change in a heartbeat, so just keep on going!
Wrong = Wasted emotional energy getting mad because I wasn’t going to make it under 11 hours.
Other Stuff = The digestive enzymes I took with the carbs I ate really helped me digest food. I learned if food is cooked and processed in temperatures over 118 degrees all the digestive enzymes are killed, making it harder for your stomach to process the food, so it just tends to sit there, causing gas and bloating and worse. I never had to stop and “make brownies” (or pudding in some cases) during the race.
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Joe and Brenda Cowell reports
Race = Mardi Gras
Location = New Orleans, LA
Date = February 27, 2005
Distance = 26.2 mile
Goal = finish quicker than the last one
Results = finished quicker than the last one
General = Flat and at sea level. all pavement but an interesting run thru the historic areas of New Orleans. Weather was great for running. about 60 degrees, slight drizzle for first 13 miles, and overcast for remainder. Started and finished in the sugardome. lots of food and music after the race.
Right = Went there to enjoy ourselves and have another interesting run in a new city.
Wrong = As usual the pavement beat up our legs but we will still continue to train on trails.
Other Stuff = Mardi Gras was over but there were plenty of people who didn’t get the memo. The crowd was in full party attire as were many of the runners.
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Anita Bower reports:
Race = Lake Hodges 50km
Location = Lake Hodges CA
Date = February 26, 2005
Distance = 50km
Goal = 5 1/2 hours
Results = 5 hours 16 minutes/3rd over all, 1st in age group
Website = http://surf.com
General = It was very humid, because of all the rain SoCal has been getting, along with it being along a lake. The race started an hour and a half late, and was poorly marked, causing me to get lost and come in third instead of second. There was also lots of shoe-sucking mud to contend with.
Right = Switched to drinking Succeed! which is less sweet than other electrolye mixes, and has much less stomach discomfort. Have incorporated raw foods and enzymes into my diet, which helped me maintain my energy levels. I also wore pink shorts and an IC shirt, which seemed to help. Despite the poor marking and late start due to the late arrival of the RD, I still managed a PR.
Wrong = Got lost twice, losing about 10 minutes, due to no markings at critical runs or mismarkings, causing me and other runners to waste valuable time. When you pay good money for your entry and motel, gas and food, it really ticks me off. I chafed really bad, because I am not used to running in humid conditions.
Other Stuff = Guys hate being passed by women in pink shorts.
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Steve Bremner reports:
Race = Myrtle Beach Marathon
Location = Myrtle Beach, SC
Date = 19 Feb 2005
Distance = 26.2
Goal = under 3 hrs
Results = 2hrs56min
Website = http://www.mbmarathon.com/
General = Myrtle Beach is a bit too built up for my tastes. Rebekka and I had booked a “package tour” through Travelocity.com. We had thought it was a “great deal,” but after finding our Holiday Inn was some 20+ miles from the beach, and found ourselves woken up at midnight to a fire alarm and noisy TVs, we opted out and migrated instead to the seashore, where we found a one bedroom oceanfront condo with kitchen for a mere $45/nt. There was still noise though, here it came from the low riders cruising Ocean Blvd and reving their engines. The second night we moved our bed from the back room to the ocean side and closed off all doors which made things much quieter. All in all, too much noise and bussle for our tastes....
It was very cold at race start at 0630. I think the temperature was 28F. This was my 65th marathon though, and I maintained my tradition by wearing only a singlet and shorts. It took a good five miles before I warmed up. Four runners were treated for hypothermia.
Right = Took it easy from the git-go.
Wrong = nothing
Other Stuff = The course is flat and fast. With half marathoners, relayers and marathoners all starting together it was confusing and I never knew who I was racing against until the half marathoners dropped off halfway through the course. At the first relay handoff point a young hotdog in green shorts burst forward zipping in and out, weaving through us steadily paced marathoners in some big hurry. He quickly moved out 200 yards ahead. I thought to myself that I would probably see him again. Sure enough, three miles later he came into view. As I passed him I said “I thought I’d see you again. It’s all about pace. You took off like a bat out of hell, now look at you.” He replied “I’ll get you.” To which I responded, “Come on then. I’m running the marathon. Let’s go. Run with me.” To which he could only splutter, “I’m 17 years old. I’ll be running with you. Just wait.” I have to hand it to him. I sure hope he sticks it out and makes good on his threat.
My first mile was 6:15 and that proved to be my fastest. I kept every mile under 7 minutes until mile 23 which was 7:02. My slowest mile was 7:15, so I was satisfied with my run. I wanted to go below 3 hours and I achieved that. I didn’t hit the wall--my slow down was on account of the inevitable shortening of the stride that comes at the end of the 26.2 mile ordeal.
####
Rebekka Hannula reports:
Race = Dasani Half-Marathom
Location = Myrtle Beach, SC
Date = February 19, 2005
Distance = 13.1
Goal = sub. 2:00
Results = 1:48:28
Website = www.mbmarathon.com
General = This was my first half-marathon so I did not know what to expect. The race started at 6:30 with the temperature a balmy 28 degrees! The course was flat and basically very easy to run. I DID NOT WALK.
Right = Well hydrated, thanks to Steve B. Long sleeves. A big tree for a pre- race pit stop!
Wrong = I should have pushed harder.
Other Stuff =
####
Curt Krieger reports:
Race = New World Snowshoe Championship
Location = Luck, Wisconsin
Date = February 12, 2005
Distance = 10K is the national qualifier (5K and 20K distances also available)
Goal = Finish top 10 overall; Qualify for nationals: shoot for around 45 minutes
Results = 4th overall; 1st in Age Group; Qualified with a 46:15
Website = http://home.centurytel.net/luckrunningclub (info) or www.myvira.com (results)
General = Part ski trail and part golf course, the groomed race route has been described as the most beautiful in the Midwest. Rolling hills and the winding trail make for a challenging snowshoe course. Also beautiful scenery along the river valleys on the drive to the race!
This year I was becoming very concerned while driving north from Iowa as the snow was steadily disappearing. It did not seem possible that enough snow would remain to conduct a snowshoe race. “Luck"ily, there was just enough snow in “Luck” for the race to proceed as designed. There was adequate snow for the most part, yet several sections did include ice and/or bare ground and was difficult to maintain any form or rhythm.
I eventually lost contact with the three runners ahead of me and settled in to a relaxed pace, by myself, seemingly alone in the woods.
The runner in second place was phenomenal at 60 years of age. Jim Graupner is one of the top age group runners in Minnesota, setting numerous age group records and acquiring high overall placements in road races!
The race is one of the regional qualifiers for the USSSA National Race, this year in Anchorage, Alaska.
Right = Able to train for many more days this year due to snow conditions. Included some specificity of training to cover poor snow conditions and some hill repeats!
Got out of the start area relatively quickly to avoid the congestion created by the narrow groomed area and large number of racers (e.g. young participants in the 5K that start at the front regardless of ability!)
Wrong = Dinner in Stillwater, Minnesota the night before included an entree that was much richer(fancy sauces etc. on Tilapia) than what I would typically consume the night before a race. However, it was also to serve as “Valentine’s Day” for my wife so what could I do?
Other Stuff = Snowshoe races are a BLAST! I really enjoy the competition and effort as well as the camaraderie following the event.
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Anita Bower reports:
Race = Pemberton 50km
Location = Fountain Hills AZ
Date = Feb. 6, 2005
Distance = 50km
Goal = break 5:53:??
Results = 5:42:??
General = The Pemberton 50km is run on the same course as the Javvelin Jundred Ultra. I was in AZ to see an alignment specialist, so I decided to stay and run the race too. It was two loops of 15.3 miles, with aid stations about every five miles.
Right = Rarely walked. Took no advil. Had a great time.
Wrong = Could have went out harder. Hopefully when my hips are in in alignment again I’ll be able to, without IT pain. Hammergel disagreed with me too, which added to my time, but it was a confidence builder for the Wasatch 100, which I got accepted into, which will be held in September in Utah.
####
Harry Harcrow reports
Race = Las Vegas International Marathon
Location = las Vegas, NV
Date = 1/30/2005
Distance = 26.2 miles
Goal = 3:11:00
Results = 3:07:18
Website = http://www.lvmararthon.com
General = This is a very fast course that starts in Jean, NV and runs towards Vegas. There isn’t much to see except the interstate and the desert. At the start the temperature was a bit cold and never got much warmer than 50 degrees. I thought this was perfect running temperature. The wind started around mile 9 and really picked up around mile 17. About the last 3 miles the wind is at your back and made the finish easier.
Right = I had an elaborate mile pacing strategy, but when the race started I threw that out. Basically, I tried to run a consistent pace throughout the race. There are times when you feel good and want to increase your pace and put some time in the “bank,” but I refrained from that. One of my goals was to finish strong and for the first time in a road marathon I finished strong and didn’t fall apart. I also made sure that I hydrated well and took gels.
Wrong = Not much really went wrong. The only thing that I would change would be to start closer to the front. I started in the middle of the pack and had to run on the shoulder of the road for the first mile.
Other Stuff = The course starts in Jean, NV and runs on an old highway towards Vegas. The first 8.5 miles are slightly uphill with the next 9 miles slightly downhill and the rest of the course is FLAT. The race finishes near the Las Vegas airport. I didn’t feel that the race was all that well organized. There were no gels given out at any of the aid stations (I always bring my own anyway) and no food after the race. The post race party was later in the day and it was an additional charge.
####
Gina Harcrow reports:
Race = Las Vegas Marathon
Location = Las Vegas, NV
Date = 01/30/2005
Distance = 26.2
Goal = 3:40
Results = 3:42:25
Website = http://www.lvmarathon.com
General = The Las Vegas Marathon is the flattest marathon I have ever run. They bus you out 26.2 miles and you run back. For 22 miles, you never even turn a corner or round a curve, its just running straight on the old LA Highway. Once we crested what was the last of the gradual hills at about mile 9, it was flat or slightly downhill from there.
Unfortunately, that was also the last hill that blocked the ugly headwind from hitting us full force until we finally turned at mile 22.
Right = I feel like I trained well for the off-season. I did speedwork (yasso 800s) for 10 weeks, I did about 6 long runs of 18 plus, I tapered fairly well (as well as i can expect from myself). Hydrated well throughout the race. Finished very strong, I think the last 5k was my fastest miles.
Wrong = I usually go out to fast. I was so aware of this fact that I made it my goal to go out as slow as I could. So slow, in fact, that my first mile was a 9:33 and by the time I hit the 10 mile mark, I was almost 4 minutes off my goal time. Stupid, I know. When I started to push it, the headwinds kicked up and it was not to be.
Other Stuff = I ran my first negative split marathon despite the headwinds (This was I am sure due to the fact that I had all this energy from not going out fast enough), but once again missed by goal time by over 2 minutes. I have a habit of making poor decisions like this in marathons, this being my third one that I have missed 3:40 by less than 3 minutes. But other than that, its Vegas. I Love Vegas! If you want a fast course, sign up and pray for no headwinds.
####
John O’Donnell reports;
Race = Las Vegas Marathon
Location = Las Vegas, Neveda
Date = Jan. 30, 2005
Distance = 26.2 miles
Goal = 4:30
Results = 5:21
Website = http://www.lvmarathon.com
General = Nice flat course. Didn’t expect 19 miles of blowing wind. Plenty of aid stations along the way. To long a wait seating in the bus 1:50 hour. NO TRAILS.
Right = Good carb load. Fluids and gels used.
Wrong = If you haven’t been to Las Vegas before, the place is a whole different world,too much walking with all the things to see. Also, to many late nights.
Other Stuff = Expect wind or rain on race day, good qualifier for Boston.
####
Joe Cowell reports:
Race = Florida marathon
Location = Clearwater Fl
Date = 1-23-05
Distance = 26.2 mile
Goal = finish without leg becoming a pogo stick
Results = not quite
General = Temp was not bad at about 50 degrees but the wind was relentless. Once again the pavement proved to be hard on the legs.
Right = I didn’t overtrain.
Wrong = I need to lose some weight.
Other Stuff = This was my 32nd marathon, 11th state
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Anita Bower reports:
Race = Calico Trail 50km
Location = Calico, CA
Date = January 16th, 2005
Distance = 50km
Goal = finish
Results = 6:45
Website = http://calicotrailrun.org
General = CTR 50km started in a ghost town outside of Barstow CA. Many runners showed up, because the Avalon 50 miler on Catalina Island the week before was cancelled due to all the severe storms. Parts of the course were 9 feet under water and boats over to the island were canelled. This was the first annual CTR, and many people were pleasantly surprised.
Right = Went out SLOOOOW and didn’t aggravate my IT band which had been hurting since last October. Have been using Succeed! for drink, with good results, no bloating.
Other Stuff = The course was a lot harder than I thought. The first 16 miles were mostly climb, followed by a steep, rocky, scree like section. It you have ever driven by Barstow CA, which is the nearest town to Calico, it’s like, “yuck, this place sucks.” Not a place you would want to stay. But back in the mountains it was very nice. Lots of wild flowers blooming, lots of different colored rocks and mountains, and you got to run through tunnels. The race was very well organized too. Definitely gets the Princess seal of approval.
####
Charles Scheibe reports:
Race = 33rd Annual Houston-HP Marathon
Location = Houston, Texas
Date = January 16, 2005
Distance = 26.2 miles
Goal = under 5:00
Results = 4:50:39
Website = http://www.houstonmarathon.com/
General = City-wide course, starting and finishing in downtown Houston.
Right = Maintained 10-minute pace for 16 miles. Completed 17th Houston Marathon.
Wrong = Once again, shins gave out, this time @ mile 16. Still haven’t figured out solution. In order to keep training without aggravating shins, reduced daily mileage, no long runs, starting to affect endurance!
Other Stuff = Predominantly flat course with lots of concrete. Well organized. Great weather ... 40’s to low 50’s.
####
Steve Bremner reports:
Race = Mississippi Marathon
Location = Clinton, MS
Date = January 15, 2005
Distance = 26.2 miles
Goal = 2:55
Results = 3:08
Website = http://www.mstrackclub.com/
General = This, my 32nd marathon state and 64th marathon overall, was a good excuse to visit the capital of Mississippi and to see the Natchez Trace Parkway. The Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic road, closed to commercial vehicles that makes it way some 100+ miles diagonnally across the state. January, with its bare trees, is probably not the most scenic time of year to visit, but it does have the advantage of being cool enough for a Coloradan.
Indeed, the temperature of 35 or so at race start was quite frigid.
Right = Took a gamble. Given a chance to go for the win, don’t shrink from the task at hand.
Wrong = Took a gamble. I wasn’t sure what condition I was in, so when a 48-yr-old guy moved out in front early on, I latched on and kept him in touch staying about 15 seconds back to nearly the halfway point, which we turned around 1:22. When we turned to head back we discovered the wind. It wasn’t overly strong, but under its persistence I wore down rapidly. Another 5 miles and my legs turned to lead, though even when my miles slowed to 8+, I kept running.
Other Stuff = Scenic, mostly flat, out and back course on the Natchez Trace Parkway.
After the marathon I drove around Jackson and realized despite all our complaints about rapid uncontrolled growth--we have it good in Colorado Springs. Much of the city is trashed out tenement housing--ramshackly “BBQ” joints, liquor stores, garbage in the streets, pot holes, and trashy public housing tenements falling down in disrepair.
This afternoon I drove out to the historic city of Vicksburg on the Mississippi River, which I remembered visiting in the early 80’s while stationed at Keesler AFB. It has changed for the worse. They now have several large casinos which have apparently sucked the life blood from the town. I searched the city for an hour for a decent local non-chain restaurant before I finally found an excellent Italian place downtown. I did duck into one of the gaudy casinos and its buffet was packed. I retreated in horror though upon seeing the monstrously obese patrons lining up at the troughs.
####
Neal Taylor reports:
Race = HURT 100
Location = Honoulu, Hawaii (sort of)
Date = Jan 15-16, 2005
Distance = 100 miles
Goal = 36 hour cutoff
Results = 33hr 4min
Website = http://www.hurthawaii.com
General = Not one to write up much of a race report normally, I thought this race was worthy. This was one tough run.
The Incline Club was well represented. Without any coordination between us, Teresa, Tom & Laura Kelecy, and myself all wore our IC shirts throughout the day. Took about two hours of scrubbing to clean my shirt.
Below, I have some things of interest and some course highlights.
Other Stuff = HURT 100, 2005
OF INTEREST:
Jan 15 — 16 2005, 5th running
88 starters, 17 finishers — I was 6th with a 33 hr 4 min.
99% trail, 1% road.
5 x 20 mile loops, three aid stations on each loop. VERY long climbs out of each aid station.
Leadville = 43% finish rate, 15,600 ft of climb, 30 hour cutoff.
HURT = 19% finish rate, 23,750 ft of climb, 36 hour cutoff. Only two people were under 30 hours.
Not to take anything from Leadville (it has “cleaned my clock” a few times too), just to show some comparisons that got my attention.
Only two other 100 runs with a slower course record, Hardrock and Eagle (in Canada).
The top three runners for the first three laps did not finish. Eric Clifton included. They were all shooting for a sub 24 hour race. Winning time was 27:25
Mike Sweeny — prior winner and course record holder, one of the “top three” mentioned above. Mike fell on the second lap, dislocated his finger, finished that lap, went to the hospital all muddy and bloody from the fall, got his finger straightened, came back out to the course, ran lap three to finish the 100 km option. THAT’S TOUGH!
Two women finishers — Monica was shooting for a sub 30 hour race. Her winning time was 31:35
This 100 miler is unique in that they let you drop to the 100 km distance during the event with timing and scoring if you do so. Although, that is a nice option to have, it definitely decreases their finish rate in the 100 mile.
100 km = 52 finishers
I saw, and participated in, more falling during this event than ever before. I did not talk to anyone who did not fall.
Special thanks to Teresa, and Tom & Laura Kelecy. They were awesome support, crew and pacers. Great friends = Great times
The race organizers provide a rescue whistle to be carried during the race. Mine became useless due to a fall that exploded a gu pack which filled the whistle.
Due to the constant wet conditions, many people dropped due to what they called “trench foot.” That is a first for me!
I developed a burning rash on my legs and stomach. I was concerned that I had brushed against some sort of strange tropical plant, so at one of the aid stations I asked Teresa to get an opinion from one of the locals as to what it might be. She reported at the next aid station that it was simply “heat rash” and many people had it, whew! Another first!
THE COURSE:
I read the race reports, and did as much homework as I could to prepare myself on how tough this course would be; I still underestimated it. This thing was a Beast! Nevertheless, it was sooooo great!
I have never been to Hawaii before. Therefore, my first experience with the rain forest trails was when the sun came up about an hour into the race. I could not believe the lush plants and the unreal shapes they formed. The Banyan tree roots provided the most technical running I have ever experienced. In many places, there was just no good place to put my foot, just pick the best of the worst. The bamboo would knock against one another in a breeze that provided a gentle knocking sound; this was our natural wind chime.
The overcast clouds and some rain made for perfect temperatures for the whole run. However, the things that made for a great feeling above the ground made for an absolutely treacherous course beneath our feet. There was just enough moisture on everything to make an ice-like slipperiness on the roots, rocks, mud, and grass, combined with the steep and constant ascending and descending. Many places on the course have cliff-like edges next to the trail, but there was normally enough vegetation within reach to keep from falling very far. In my race description, I mention a spectacular fall a fellow took right behind me. This course is tough enough on a good year, but the race organizers and repeat runners named this year the toughest year yet.
THE RACE:
Start — 6:00 am Saturday, Jan 15, 2005. After a Hawaiian prayer, read in both Hawaiian and English, there was a blow on the conch shell, and we were off.
Lap one, 0-20 miles - About eight miles into the run when, as I was talking to the fellow behind me I heard a simultaneous “aaaagh” and “thump.” I stopped to help and he was just off the trail still in a vertical standing position but his head was about three feet lower than the trail. That would be the first of many falls I would see, but maybe the most spectacular. About halfway through this lap, I connected with my ultra-buddy Monica Scholz. We spent the rest of this lap and the next lap just cruising and chatting. There would be time later for racing each other. Although, I would find out that she is in great shape so I would not be much of a challenge for her today.
Lap two, 20-40 miles - Just enjoying the course, trying to run a smart race.
Lap three, 40-60 miles — Monica took off like crazy from the start/finish aid station, at 40 miles. I was still feeling good and I knew that if I let her go I would not catch her later. Therefore, I took off to try to get some distance ahead of her, it was my only chance. At about 47 miles, I picked up Tom as my first pacer. Up until this point I had witnessed quite a few falls but I was all puffed up with myself that I had not fallen, so my goal became that I would finish the race without falling. HA!!! It was dark now and before the night was over, I fell at least ten times! Although, I only took one real hard hit, thankfully most of the falls were in the mud. Toward the end of this lap, around 55 miles, Monica passed me back and I knew it would the end of our contest with each other for this race. That was OK with me though, I had one thing on my mind. Finish.
Lap four, 60-80 miles — Up until this time, the course seems to have a lot of runners on it. Due to the multiple laps, which also involve some out and backs, there were people around quite a bit. Well, approximately 62 miles is 100 km. In order to drop to the 100 km distance the requirement is that you speak to the race official at the start/finish aid station at 60 miles, he will try to talk you into finishing the 100 miles, but if you insist, he will give you an additional small loop to complete 100 km. This had the affect of cutting the number of starters in half; the trail was noticeably less populated. At the 72-mile aid station, pacers changed from a muddy and bruised Tom over to fresh and ready to go Teresa. We crossed the stream out of the Nu’uanu station and Teresa was able to experience the full-scale mud bath. Additionally, climbing up out of Nu’uanu is the steepest climb on the course, complete with permanent ropes strategically placed for safety against falling; a long way.
Lap five, 80-100 miles — It has just gotten light out but I am battling my normal demon of the 100 mile. Sleep deprivation. This is always my worst time during a race. Luckily, Teresa has been through this too many times to count and we were able to work through it. We kept plugging along and with the daylight, we were able to see the two out-of-this-world big Banyan trees on the course and a huge waterfall. Too Cool. At Nu’uanu station again, mile 92, Teresa turned her pacing over to Laura. Laura is battling a heel injury and was not going to pace me, but I think she heard about this wild and wooly course and just could not pass it up! So on toward the finish we went. The one place on the trail that I just could not believe every time I saw it was in the middle of each leg where we intersected on the out and backs. For about a half mile there are banyan tree roots that cover the whole trail which is very wide at this point, about 15 feet. The roots are all intertwined without enough space for a who le foot, and they vary about 2-6 inches high from the ground. Crazy. On the way down to the finish, some hikers were out (Sunday about 2:00 pm) and asked us what we were doing. Of course, they could not comprehend that we had started running yesterday at 6:00 am. I was all too comfortable just standing there yakking with the hikers, but Laura had other ideas, like finishing.
Finish — 3:04 pm Sunday, Jan 16 — Laura ran with me on in to the cheers of those at the finish. I had to run up and touch the sign that said, in both Hawaiian and English “We wouldn’t want to make it easy.” Well, they didn’t have to worry about that!
One belt buckle and a seashell & nut lei. I was one happy camper!!!
####
Teresa Taylor reports:
Race = HURT 100 ******PACER, not runner!********
Location = Honolulu, HI
Date = Jan 15-16, 2005
Distance = 100 Mile
Goal = Pace Neal for a 20 mile loop
Results = Wow, what a course
Website = http://www.hurthawaii.com/
General = Neal’s race report has most of details, but I would like to add that in my years of trail running, never have I seen a trail as wicked as this one!
The HURT club and volunteers, including a HS cross coutry team, were WONDERFUL to runners and crew alike.
Right = I usually pace Neal at the end of his 100 milers and know what to expect and how to handle it. The sleepiness he normally experiences was a minor factor this time, which was a surprise, as this course requires more time on trail that he has ever experienced. It is always amazing to me as both a racer and a pacer that 7 hours can go by so fast! Neal is always a joy to pace, and he was in good spirits knowing he was going to be finishing one of the hardest courses in the 100-mile circuit. We just took the climbs and descents as they came and ran whatever steps we could. I was impressed with the leg he had left for the up and down and we think being in shape for once, and the varied use of all muscle groups kept the range of motion intact throughout the race. At the end of my 20 miles, I turned the pacing over to Laura Kelecy, who although she had an injury, felt the pull of the course and wanted some of that trail experience we were all having. Going home without mud on her legs was not an option!
I was very pleased with my climbing. I know part of it was the abundance of Oxygen at sea level, but running more than once a week, plus the trips to Barr Camp and back these last months (both running and hiking with big backpacks) helped me build some strength I have been lacking. There is no substitute for training!
I was very proud at the finish, when Neal with his mud encrusted legs and big smile received his finishers Kukui nut lei and belt buckle. He went into this race with respect for and fear of the low finish rate and the difficulty of the course. He was one of the 19% who overcame it all and finished!
Wrong = When your runner finishes and all is well, the things you thought might have been wrong really mean nothing!
Other Stuff = Wicked! Continually up and down, and footing so bad you wonder how you will stay up — and I only did 20 miles! Not to mention the mud — a sticky tacky slippery mix of yuck that gets all over! Neal’s white IC shirt took an hour plus of scrubbing to get presentable, and the photos we took throught out the race show the shirt going from white to muddy mess with each of the loops!
I switched with Tom Kelecy so I could run the daylight to see the course. Bamboo clanking in the breeze, a green canopy filled with all sorts of birds, and plants that we know as houseplants with leaves as big as I am, were just some of the things we got to experience. Narrow Hog back mountain tops with sea breeze fog making it so slippery you made sure you held onto whatever vegetation you could find, and roots nearly up to you knees criss-crossing the trail in a tight weave you could not plant a foot securely or squarely between where just some of the more challenging trail hazards.
I was wonderful to have Tom and Laura there to help and to share trail and time with!
####
Connilee Walter reports:
Race = Arizona Rock N Roll
Location = Phoenix, AZ
Date = January 9, 2004
Distance = 26.2
Goal = At least, go under 3:30, if I had a good day, go sub 3:20
Results = 3:22:11
Website = http://www.rnraz.com
General = Ran this race because I to get back in shape after Casey was born in August and the location was close to my parents town so we could time a visit accordingly. Admittedly, I was nervous about completing this marathon, since I had not completed a marathon in nearly two years, and had been off running for approximately a year prior to starting a marathon training plan.
Right = Tried out the Pete Pfitzinger 55 miles week or less for 12 weeks marathon plan. Loved it. Ran a couple of tune up races to assess my fitness level and set goals accordingly. Brought my own gels but relied entirely on the race staff for water and gatorade.
Ran indoors on the treadmill as much as possible the last two to three weeks prior to the marathon to help acclimate myself to the warmer conditions I expected in Arizona.
As I thought about pacing myself to the finish, I wanted to feel fresh at the half marathon point (just like the goal in the Peak is to feel relatively fresh at Barr Camp). I passed the half marathon in 1:41 and change and felt good. I picked it up a bit from mile 13 to 20, and then another notch from 20 to 26. Finished strong.
Also, a new twist for me — Jonathan and Lindsay Cavner were kind enough to pace me the last two miles of the marathon. I was feeling strong at this point, and he was able to give me an extra push. My guess is that I was able to push 20-30 seconds per mile faster due to the help of fresh humans! :) The emotional and physical support was a real boost!
Wrong = Maybe, I could have broken 3:20 if I had been more ambitious with my pacing. But it might have backfired too.
Other Stuff = This was the second year for AZRNR. The first year reportedly had several glitches including a late start and lost shuttle buses. This year, however, Elite Racing seemed to have straightened out the glitches with a super-smooth race start and plenty of water at all aid stations. This second year also brought a ‘flatter’ course (but surprisingly, slower times by the elite athletes). The temps were warm but not unbearable at about 40 degrees for the race start and close to 70 at the finish.
####
Charles Scheibe
Race = 6th Annual Texas Marathon
Location = Kingwood, TX (NE of Houston)
Date = January 1, 2005
Distance = 26.2 miles
Goal = under 5:00
Results = 5:28:47
Website = http://www.50statesmarathonclub.com/texas2005.html
General = 4-loop trail run through pine forests and along lake NE of Houston. Well-organized and definitely caters to all of the runners.
Right = Maintained 10-minute pace for first 18 miles.
Wrong = Shins gave out @ mile 18. Became difficult to push off with either foot, Could not even walk fast. Warm weather ... mid-70’s and humid!
Other Stuff = Course was fairly flat. Trails were mainly asphalt and concrete.
####
Charles Scheibe reports:
Race = 14th Annual Austin Freescale Marathon
Location = Austin, Texas
Date = February 13, 2005
Distance = 26.2 miles
Goal = under 4:40
Results = 5:59:17
Website = http://www.freescaleaustinmarathon.com/home.asp
General = Beautiful, point-to-point course from 13 miles north of downtown Austin through neighborhoods, the UT campus, past the capitol, and around Town Lake.
Right = Ran and visited with several old running buddies. Maintained a sub-10 minute pace for 16 miles. Rendered aid to a good friend who had become quite ill and was unable to continue.
Wrong = Took over an hour and 20 minutes to cover miles 17 to 19 and wait for assistance for my friend.
Other Stuff = Hilly course; net downhill for the first half. Weather was very warm and sunny ... mid 70’s, windy and humid!
####
Charles Scheibe reports:
Race = 15th Annual Sunmart Texas Trail 50 Miler
Location = Huntsville, Texas
Date = December 11, 2004
Distance = 50 Miles
Goal = Under 12:00
Results = 9:28:54 (40 miles)
Website = http://www.sunmart.net/Race/Default.aspx
General = 4 12.5 mile loops through thick pine forests, dirt trails with plenty of rock and root outcroppings.
Right = Maintained planned pace and comfortably made all three cut-offs.
Wrong = Didn’t pack flashlight or headlamp. Shied away from completing final loop because of darkness, muscle stiffness and frequent cough.
Other Stuff = While disappointed by DNF, I established distance and time benchmarks that will helpful in future ultras.
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To change your e-mail address or unsubscribe from the Incline Club newsletter go here:
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Go out hard, when it hurts speed up...
Matt Carpenter
http://www.skyrunner.com
Training for the Ascent and Marathon on Pikes Peak
http://www.skyrunner.com/guide
Barr Trail Mountain Race
http://www.runpikespeak.com
presented by Pikes Peak National Bank
Incline Club
http://www.inclinclub.com
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