So...time to start at least putting some notes down...I guess.
Signed up for RATS again..racing cross...Shelley did her first cross race which was awesome and I am soooooo proud of her.
More to come
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Some times I wonder
It has been hot for my last few runs. What I consider stupid fucking hot...100 degrees with high heat indexes...it has been tough. I think it is kind of interesting that some people won't run in it. A few friends are running early mornings to avoid the heat...Shelley always asks are you running tonight? It is hot you know? I don't know if it does and good or harm but yeah I am running in the heat. If we only run/train when the conditions are good how are we going to race when the conditions are bad?
It is a miserable son of a bitch out there when it is hot or cold for that matter...but on race day we only get what is served.
It is a miserable son of a bitch out there when it is hot or cold for that matter...but on race day we only get what is served.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Ponderings and training stuff
Well this week has been a bit of a downer training week. I am still pretty tired and might have done a little much last week. I will get some good stuff in this weekend because the mind is good but the body wants more sleep. No worries, it is going to be a long year in preparing for Desert RATS 2010...
I was thinking last night about is endurance sport what I do or who I am? I have known many people in the past few years who live and die by the race clock and the time it reflects. I must admit I have been there myself a few times but I think I have turned that corner and although my lifestyle includes endurance sport and by the nature of the events I enjoy I spend a very large part of my spare time doing and training for these events. I do them purely for the enjoyment of the effort. Yes I still like to see times on the clock that I think are "good" I cherish the effort, the people and the places. I have said it before...it is the faces and the places not the finish times of my races.
Have fun.
I was thinking last night about is endurance sport what I do or who I am? I have known many people in the past few years who live and die by the race clock and the time it reflects. I must admit I have been there myself a few times but I think I have turned that corner and although my lifestyle includes endurance sport and by the nature of the events I enjoy I spend a very large part of my spare time doing and training for these events. I do them purely for the enjoyment of the effort. Yes I still like to see times on the clock that I think are "good" I cherish the effort, the people and the places. I have said it before...it is the faces and the places not the finish times of my races.
Have fun.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Keeping on keeping on
Good spin last night...knee wasn't tracking well. I think it is due to my laying off the bike. Felt okay this morning. I think I will go for a short run tonight to see how things are.
It feels awesome getting back at it.
It feels awesome getting back at it.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Moving again....
Did a nice hour spin last night after going to see Terri (PT) for my shoulder. I have to get my shoulders stronger. I think my lack of swimming the past year has been a factor. No worries, my legs still work...for now anyway.
Weight is back to normal 196.8 so I have 16 lbs to shed in the next year. No problem right...well I have yet to be successful in that endevor...we'll see.
Weight is back to normal 196.8 so I have 16 lbs to shed in the next year. No problem right...well I have yet to be successful in that endevor...we'll see.
Monday, June 29, 2009
The start of a "new year"
OK so it is 1 week post Desert RATS...I didn't do jackshit last week. It felt wonderful. I have been thinking way too much about 2010 RATS...I do believe we are in for 2010. I have no idea why but I want to go back...I need to go back. The feelings and thoughts from the race are still fresh and I want/need that feeling again. I dread and welcome the training and race all at the sametime. I think I know what to do and how to prepare for the event the second go round so it begins. I trained alittle over 500 hours for this years race. I want to up that to 600. Hopefully injury for both Shelley and I are in the past so we should be able to ramp it up that much. I hope.
Here is a video of the race shot by a filmmaker who was with us. Allison did a great job capturing the essence of our adventure
http://natgeoadventuretv.com.au/Blog/Post.aspx?PostId=516
So...51 weeks from now I will be back...15 lbs lighter with many more miles on my feet. I will raise to this challenge.
Here is a video of the race shot by a filmmaker who was with us. Allison did a great job capturing the essence of our adventure
http://natgeoadventuretv.com.au/Blog/Post.aspx?PostId=516
So...51 weeks from now I will be back...15 lbs lighter with many more miles on my feet. I will raise to this challenge.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Desert RATS RR
Desert RATS...2009
I guess to get to the end you have to start at the beginning. The beginning of Desert RATS started long before I even knew of the race. It started the day I looked at endurance sports and started training for my first triathlon some 14 years ago. I didn't know it then but like most things in life you start down one road and it leads to others. I think that is one of the beauties of living out loud and being in tune with the world of living beyond possibilities. The past 10 years Shelley and I have been racing Ironman's and ultra running was something we did in the off season to stay in shape for the up coming tri season. After IMUSA in 2008 I knew it was time for something new. Ironman was fun but it lost its challenge as the fields grew and the hoopla surrounding it seemed to make it less of an endurance challenge and more of big participant party. That is not necessarily a bad thing but it isn't what I am looking for. I want the challenge; I want to be out there where the terrain smacks you in the head and says "this world is much bigger than you". This event did just that.
Desert RATS is a 6 days stage race that runs the length of Kokopelli's trail which is 148 miles in length. Competitors carry their daily needs plus a list of mandatory gear. This is similar to races like Marathon de Sables and the Gobi March but we did not have to carry the full week. Each night camp was set up by the crew of Gemini Adventures and we had dinner cooked for us as well as breakfast supplies. Aid stations varied but were generally 10 to 14 miles apart with water drops in between. The trails are very remote and temps can be extreme. We got lucky and the temps were very mild.
A quick note about the Gemini crew...these folks are professional and the organization is awesome. They really know what they are doing and their love for this race shows in their actions. I can not say enough good things about them and in the end I am so lucky to have shared time with all of them. I will make sure our paths cross many times in the future.
For those of you wanting a short report...This race was the hardest thing I have done to date both physically and mentally. Going to the well to drag my depressed butt out of darkness time and time again was a challenge like I had never experienced...there is no one out there handing you a Dixie up of Gatorade and telling you that you are doing awesome...there is no race expo....there is no jumbo-tron...there is just you and an expanse of land that you are trying to cover. This race is what endurance sport is about...a solo effort against something that is immense. If you have a crack in your confidence it will crush you....but...you can control those emotions and fight to finish what you start. It is all up to you and that is the beauty of it. It is simple...run, rest, run again. A priceless span in time.
Sunday, June 14th Check In:
Sunday was check in at the hotel in Moab. I was so freaking nervous I could hardly stand it. We met Chris and Tom who were doing the race and were seasoned vets of big events including MdS. They were so helpful in putting mine and Shelley's minds at ease. Seeing the race crew and our race group for the first time was nerve wracking. I had no idea what to expect. We went through our mandatory gear and did a bit of paper work. We were no more than a bunch of individuals who signed up for a race at this point but that would change as the days went by. After check in it was time to get to bed. No sleep would come. I was ready to get this thing started.
Monday, June 15th Stage 1:
20 miles: We loaded our gear packs in the trailer and hopped on the shuttle that would drive us from Moab UT to Loma CO. for a 1 pm start time. I was a ball of nervous energy. About ½ ways to Loma I had to call for a pee break much to the delight of the 10 of us stuffed in the van. A bit later we were at the start line. The temp was mild low 80's...we took a few pictures and then Reid (RD) said go...we did, up hill. Looking at the profile I was under the assumption that the stage was flat. Wrong answer...after the first little hill we came out along the trail as it ran along the Colorado river. The trail was amazing as it ran on a rim along huge canyons just so beautiful. I have never been on a trail that was this breath taking. Words can not describe how I was feeling. Lots of single track, lizards and open space. I was feeling small. I also was feeling some gnarly GI issues and had to make a pit stop. At this point the gravity of this race set in and I started to have doubts. We made it to the aid station and worked our way through the day. Thankfully we only missed one turn and realized it before we went too far...only added a mile or so.
Camp was set up and the crew was cooking up some great grub. Got my gear in the tent and ate...my mind was really starting to play tricks...much bad ju ju in my mellon. I was totally convinced that there was no way I was going to make the next days cut off. The internal conversations were intense.
Tuesday, June 16th Stage 2:
40 miles: After horrible nights sleep (4 hours at most) we get the "coffee call" and I waste no time getting my gear sorted out. A good cup of coffee and some oatmeal and we were at the line for the start. I told Shelley to hang with Juliann as I was having serious doubts about making the cut off. I really didn't want her to miss one due to my short comings. The first few miles were really casual and I was making good pace staying with Shelley and Juliann. Then we hit the only big climb of the day...it was short maybe ½ mile but it was really steep and I was laboring. I hit so many low points in the brief period it was so strange...but I made it to the top. Shelley and Juliann separated at this point and I was alone...the rest of the stage was rolling and one we got to the final aid station it was basically down hill but that was killing my feet. I just kept moving forward. I finally came to the camp but it took a long time 10:25? I was spent mentally and physically. I took a dip in the river and Milts stop and eat cooked us up some burgers and bacon...best thing I have ever eaten in my life...
The crew of runners and mountain bikers had started to gel...friendships were forming and the support started to grow...we only had each other...Morgan fixed some blisters on Shelley's feet, Chris help me get some nutrition down. I was so happy to make cutoff. I was at a high point and feeling a bit better...one big hurtle down.
Wednesday, June 17th Stage 3:
I slept a little better knowing that today's stage was only 9 miles. I was sore but my feet were in pretty good shape and I had no issues at this point other than altitude and fitness. We took off back up the hill that was yesterdays finish stretch and headed along the river rim trail. I wish I had words to describe the beauty of it all. I was just amazed to be out there and still in the race. Shelley, Juliann and I ran the stage together getting some pictures and just moving along at a leisurely pace. The finish line came quickly and I was glad to have a few hours of rest...another great meal on the river. We all did some laundry and bathed in the river...the cool water was welcome relief on tired legs. We had covered nearly 70 miles in three days...all day my eyes were wandering up to the La Sal mountains, I was fighting the thoughts in my head that come Thursday we were heading into the mountains. They seemed so far off...52 miles off...and I knew that I was going to have to move my body over that distance to stay in the race.
Thursday/Friday June 18th, 19th Stage 4:
The Expedition Stage: 52 miles...8000 feet of elevation gain. Today was going to be about making the cutoff...I had till 3:30 am on Friday to make it that seemed like a lot of time but I was still nervous as hell. My confidence was low. Tom and I were talking and he made the comment..."you will make it if you want it". That thought stayed with me for the next 16 ½ hours. Do I want it? Do I want it? At that point honestly I didn't know...I was almost to the point of...well, you had a big week that is good enough but I knew that did hold any truth. I did want it and I was going to move forward until I either passed out and was drug off the course or I made the finish line. Go...we were off. I was moving well the first 9 mile loop to Aid one...this section was basically sand and some amazing canyon walls...I was actually hanging with Shelley and Juliann at this point and making good time. We were treated to seeing a Golden Eagle take flight...I thought to myself..."Kurt take flight". I nearly broke down...After Aid 1 we started up hill...for 10 miles we went up...remote canyons, huge drop offs below and huge walls above...I had seen many photos in magazines of people running in remote places and I always wanted to be that guy...and I realized...I was that guy. I finally reached the water drop on top as I sucked that last ounce of water I had...refilled and started the decent to Aid 2.down the Rose Garden...what a trail. I was just trying not to break an ankle going down that rock strewn goat path... back in the valley...only one more climb. Heading to about 9000 ft. I saw the clouds building and wondered how bad the storm was going to be...Aid 3 was about a mile and a half from the peak...as I started up the sun started to go down. I felt okay and was determined. I wanted this with every fiber in my body I WANTED THIS! I knew I was good on the cutoff time if I just keep moving up. I had so many ups and downs through this section I lost track but I kept moving...the sunset was beautiful only because it was lighting up the thunderstorm on top of the mountain...I was climbing directly into it...then it started to rain...I hit aid 3 at dark and just as the lightening started to crack all around me. I sat down and Reid through a tarp over me "HEY I AM NOT DEAD YET" I got my tights on as the temps were getting really cold. I was shivering. I got some coke, potato chips and beef jerky in me and was back on the trail...a little over a mile of climbing left then down hill to camp and a rest day. I trudged on...the rain finally stopped about the time I hit the downhill which was pavement. My legs were toast. I tried to run but my back would lock up and knees felt as if they were going to explode...I kept moving...I wanted this. Sam followed me in the car as it was dark and I was having trouble keeping a straight line...finally the glow of camp came into sight. It was still a bit off but I kept moving...finally I got to the cut off and headed to camp. Everyone was awake and waiting for me....I broke down. That was one of the hardest days that I can remember...I hugged Shelley and just stood there completely and utterly spent. A couple bowls of chili and I crawled into my bag and shook myself to sleep. I had made it. The support of the racers and crew was overwhelming. I could not thank them enough. These people have become family.
Friday, June 19th Rest Day...
After a good nights sleep finally it was rest day...we ate a huge brunch that was awesome and loaded up to spend the day at the sandy beach on the Colorado River...as we were leaving I saw two people on road bikes coming into camp. I said...who the hell is riding a road bike down here and holy shit it was Lauren and Mark from Austin coming to say hello to Shelley and I! I was so stoked to see them it meant the world to me and Shelley! The met us down at the river and after some huge hugs we recounted our adventures of the past few days. It was so awesome to have them there...we spent the afternoon relaxing, eating and telling stories. It was a very special moment for us all. We went from being strangers to family in those days. It was our world and when boats of rafters came to stop on our little corner of earth we looked at them as intruders. It was odd looking at them wondering how we were going to tell others about our adventure in the desert.
Saturday, June 20th...Stage 5 Marathon Stage:
After a good nights rest it was all done but a marathon. LOL We all laughed when it became clear what we were saying...."all we have to do is run a marathon today". It is funny how ones perspective changes with their environment. I was still shaky on the stages cutoff time but knew that I wanted this more than ever and would turn myself inside out to finish this thing. The first six miles of today's stage was all up hill on the road...it was a long steep climb but I knew if I could get to the top I could make the day. I was steady and I was going up...that is what I could control and what I did...once on top it was downhill until the Porcupine Rim trail head...my legs were killing me going down hill has my big toe nail was all but off. I had to put the brakes on to keep from screaming in pain...got to Porcupine and headed back up hill for 2.5 more miles to find a bowl that had a numbered rock in that I had to bring back to show the final aid station that I actually did the out and back...that trail section was diabolical...I struggle up and up...saw Morgan coming down...he was hurting...saw Ashley and she was her upbeat self all smiles, then Kyle, pissed he missed a turn, then Juliann and then Shelley who gave me a big hug and told me not to get frustrated and the rocks were a little further...finally that little red bowl was sitting there...I took out rock #1 which was my race number...tucked it into one of my pockets with a zipper...no way I wanted to lose that little SOB...back to Aid and showed it to John and Sam...after a few words of grief to one another it was back down hill to the finish...I just kept it rolling the best I could. I was so ready to be done...the last 6 miles was the longest 6 miles I have ever run. I got more and more worried I had missed a turn off...finally a mtb guy came by and I asked if I was close to the Slick Rock trail head...he asked what I was doing...I told him I was trying to finish a 148 mile run on Kokopelli's trail...he said "holy shit" that is awesome and yeah the finish is like 200 yards around that rock! I couldn't believe it. I took off and there it was...all my friends and the finish line! I HAD MADE IT! Lots of tears hugs and congratulations! Of course much smack talk as well. We had done it.
If you have made it this far congratulation...this race is still a blur in my mind and I am missing many details I know...I have never had such an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and I am truly proud of myself for getting through this race. I have many people to thank...I know I will miss many but if you are reading this you are to thank as you have listened to me tell tales of running and endurance sport for a long time and are a part of everything I do....thanks to Reid, John, Sam, Josh, Glenn, Karen, Mark, Doc (the crew) also thanks to Chris, Tom, Kyle, Juliann, Ashley, Jeremy, Shaun, Morgan the runners...Heather, Eric, Lasha, Ryan and Matt the mtb gang...
What a week.
I guess to get to the end you have to start at the beginning. The beginning of Desert RATS started long before I even knew of the race. It started the day I looked at endurance sports and started training for my first triathlon some 14 years ago. I didn't know it then but like most things in life you start down one road and it leads to others. I think that is one of the beauties of living out loud and being in tune with the world of living beyond possibilities. The past 10 years Shelley and I have been racing Ironman's and ultra running was something we did in the off season to stay in shape for the up coming tri season. After IMUSA in 2008 I knew it was time for something new. Ironman was fun but it lost its challenge as the fields grew and the hoopla surrounding it seemed to make it less of an endurance challenge and more of big participant party. That is not necessarily a bad thing but it isn't what I am looking for. I want the challenge; I want to be out there where the terrain smacks you in the head and says "this world is much bigger than you". This event did just that.
Desert RATS is a 6 days stage race that runs the length of Kokopelli's trail which is 148 miles in length. Competitors carry their daily needs plus a list of mandatory gear. This is similar to races like Marathon de Sables and the Gobi March but we did not have to carry the full week. Each night camp was set up by the crew of Gemini Adventures and we had dinner cooked for us as well as breakfast supplies. Aid stations varied but were generally 10 to 14 miles apart with water drops in between. The trails are very remote and temps can be extreme. We got lucky and the temps were very mild.
A quick note about the Gemini crew...these folks are professional and the organization is awesome. They really know what they are doing and their love for this race shows in their actions. I can not say enough good things about them and in the end I am so lucky to have shared time with all of them. I will make sure our paths cross many times in the future.
For those of you wanting a short report...This race was the hardest thing I have done to date both physically and mentally. Going to the well to drag my depressed butt out of darkness time and time again was a challenge like I had never experienced...there is no one out there handing you a Dixie up of Gatorade and telling you that you are doing awesome...there is no race expo....there is no jumbo-tron...there is just you and an expanse of land that you are trying to cover. This race is what endurance sport is about...a solo effort against something that is immense. If you have a crack in your confidence it will crush you....but...you can control those emotions and fight to finish what you start. It is all up to you and that is the beauty of it. It is simple...run, rest, run again. A priceless span in time.
Sunday, June 14th Check In:
Sunday was check in at the hotel in Moab. I was so freaking nervous I could hardly stand it. We met Chris and Tom who were doing the race and were seasoned vets of big events including MdS. They were so helpful in putting mine and Shelley's minds at ease. Seeing the race crew and our race group for the first time was nerve wracking. I had no idea what to expect. We went through our mandatory gear and did a bit of paper work. We were no more than a bunch of individuals who signed up for a race at this point but that would change as the days went by. After check in it was time to get to bed. No sleep would come. I was ready to get this thing started.
Monday, June 15th Stage 1:
20 miles: We loaded our gear packs in the trailer and hopped on the shuttle that would drive us from Moab UT to Loma CO. for a 1 pm start time. I was a ball of nervous energy. About ½ ways to Loma I had to call for a pee break much to the delight of the 10 of us stuffed in the van. A bit later we were at the start line. The temp was mild low 80's...we took a few pictures and then Reid (RD) said go...we did, up hill. Looking at the profile I was under the assumption that the stage was flat. Wrong answer...after the first little hill we came out along the trail as it ran along the Colorado river. The trail was amazing as it ran on a rim along huge canyons just so beautiful. I have never been on a trail that was this breath taking. Words can not describe how I was feeling. Lots of single track, lizards and open space. I was feeling small. I also was feeling some gnarly GI issues and had to make a pit stop. At this point the gravity of this race set in and I started to have doubts. We made it to the aid station and worked our way through the day. Thankfully we only missed one turn and realized it before we went too far...only added a mile or so.
Camp was set up and the crew was cooking up some great grub. Got my gear in the tent and ate...my mind was really starting to play tricks...much bad ju ju in my mellon. I was totally convinced that there was no way I was going to make the next days cut off. The internal conversations were intense.
Tuesday, June 16th Stage 2:
40 miles: After horrible nights sleep (4 hours at most) we get the "coffee call" and I waste no time getting my gear sorted out. A good cup of coffee and some oatmeal and we were at the line for the start. I told Shelley to hang with Juliann as I was having serious doubts about making the cut off. I really didn't want her to miss one due to my short comings. The first few miles were really casual and I was making good pace staying with Shelley and Juliann. Then we hit the only big climb of the day...it was short maybe ½ mile but it was really steep and I was laboring. I hit so many low points in the brief period it was so strange...but I made it to the top. Shelley and Juliann separated at this point and I was alone...the rest of the stage was rolling and one we got to the final aid station it was basically down hill but that was killing my feet. I just kept moving forward. I finally came to the camp but it took a long time 10:25? I was spent mentally and physically. I took a dip in the river and Milts stop and eat cooked us up some burgers and bacon...best thing I have ever eaten in my life...
The crew of runners and mountain bikers had started to gel...friendships were forming and the support started to grow...we only had each other...Morgan fixed some blisters on Shelley's feet, Chris help me get some nutrition down. I was so happy to make cutoff. I was at a high point and feeling a bit better...one big hurtle down.
Wednesday, June 17th Stage 3:
I slept a little better knowing that today's stage was only 9 miles. I was sore but my feet were in pretty good shape and I had no issues at this point other than altitude and fitness. We took off back up the hill that was yesterdays finish stretch and headed along the river rim trail. I wish I had words to describe the beauty of it all. I was just amazed to be out there and still in the race. Shelley, Juliann and I ran the stage together getting some pictures and just moving along at a leisurely pace. The finish line came quickly and I was glad to have a few hours of rest...another great meal on the river. We all did some laundry and bathed in the river...the cool water was welcome relief on tired legs. We had covered nearly 70 miles in three days...all day my eyes were wandering up to the La Sal mountains, I was fighting the thoughts in my head that come Thursday we were heading into the mountains. They seemed so far off...52 miles off...and I knew that I was going to have to move my body over that distance to stay in the race.
Thursday/Friday June 18th, 19th Stage 4:
The Expedition Stage: 52 miles...8000 feet of elevation gain. Today was going to be about making the cutoff...I had till 3:30 am on Friday to make it that seemed like a lot of time but I was still nervous as hell. My confidence was low. Tom and I were talking and he made the comment..."you will make it if you want it". That thought stayed with me for the next 16 ½ hours. Do I want it? Do I want it? At that point honestly I didn't know...I was almost to the point of...well, you had a big week that is good enough but I knew that did hold any truth. I did want it and I was going to move forward until I either passed out and was drug off the course or I made the finish line. Go...we were off. I was moving well the first 9 mile loop to Aid one...this section was basically sand and some amazing canyon walls...I was actually hanging with Shelley and Juliann at this point and making good time. We were treated to seeing a Golden Eagle take flight...I thought to myself..."Kurt take flight". I nearly broke down...After Aid 1 we started up hill...for 10 miles we went up...remote canyons, huge drop offs below and huge walls above...I had seen many photos in magazines of people running in remote places and I always wanted to be that guy...and I realized...I was that guy. I finally reached the water drop on top as I sucked that last ounce of water I had...refilled and started the decent to Aid 2.down the Rose Garden...what a trail. I was just trying not to break an ankle going down that rock strewn goat path... back in the valley...only one more climb. Heading to about 9000 ft. I saw the clouds building and wondered how bad the storm was going to be...Aid 3 was about a mile and a half from the peak...as I started up the sun started to go down. I felt okay and was determined. I wanted this with every fiber in my body I WANTED THIS! I knew I was good on the cutoff time if I just keep moving up. I had so many ups and downs through this section I lost track but I kept moving...the sunset was beautiful only because it was lighting up the thunderstorm on top of the mountain...I was climbing directly into it...then it started to rain...I hit aid 3 at dark and just as the lightening started to crack all around me. I sat down and Reid through a tarp over me "HEY I AM NOT DEAD YET" I got my tights on as the temps were getting really cold. I was shivering. I got some coke, potato chips and beef jerky in me and was back on the trail...a little over a mile of climbing left then down hill to camp and a rest day. I trudged on...the rain finally stopped about the time I hit the downhill which was pavement. My legs were toast. I tried to run but my back would lock up and knees felt as if they were going to explode...I kept moving...I wanted this. Sam followed me in the car as it was dark and I was having trouble keeping a straight line...finally the glow of camp came into sight. It was still a bit off but I kept moving...finally I got to the cut off and headed to camp. Everyone was awake and waiting for me....I broke down. That was one of the hardest days that I can remember...I hugged Shelley and just stood there completely and utterly spent. A couple bowls of chili and I crawled into my bag and shook myself to sleep. I had made it. The support of the racers and crew was overwhelming. I could not thank them enough. These people have become family.
Friday, June 19th Rest Day...
After a good nights sleep finally it was rest day...we ate a huge brunch that was awesome and loaded up to spend the day at the sandy beach on the Colorado River...as we were leaving I saw two people on road bikes coming into camp. I said...who the hell is riding a road bike down here and holy shit it was Lauren and Mark from Austin coming to say hello to Shelley and I! I was so stoked to see them it meant the world to me and Shelley! The met us down at the river and after some huge hugs we recounted our adventures of the past few days. It was so awesome to have them there...we spent the afternoon relaxing, eating and telling stories. It was a very special moment for us all. We went from being strangers to family in those days. It was our world and when boats of rafters came to stop on our little corner of earth we looked at them as intruders. It was odd looking at them wondering how we were going to tell others about our adventure in the desert.
Saturday, June 20th...Stage 5 Marathon Stage:
After a good nights rest it was all done but a marathon. LOL We all laughed when it became clear what we were saying...."all we have to do is run a marathon today". It is funny how ones perspective changes with their environment. I was still shaky on the stages cutoff time but knew that I wanted this more than ever and would turn myself inside out to finish this thing. The first six miles of today's stage was all up hill on the road...it was a long steep climb but I knew if I could get to the top I could make the day. I was steady and I was going up...that is what I could control and what I did...once on top it was downhill until the Porcupine Rim trail head...my legs were killing me going down hill has my big toe nail was all but off. I had to put the brakes on to keep from screaming in pain...got to Porcupine and headed back up hill for 2.5 more miles to find a bowl that had a numbered rock in that I had to bring back to show the final aid station that I actually did the out and back...that trail section was diabolical...I struggle up and up...saw Morgan coming down...he was hurting...saw Ashley and she was her upbeat self all smiles, then Kyle, pissed he missed a turn, then Juliann and then Shelley who gave me a big hug and told me not to get frustrated and the rocks were a little further...finally that little red bowl was sitting there...I took out rock #1 which was my race number...tucked it into one of my pockets with a zipper...no way I wanted to lose that little SOB...back to Aid and showed it to John and Sam...after a few words of grief to one another it was back down hill to the finish...I just kept it rolling the best I could. I was so ready to be done...the last 6 miles was the longest 6 miles I have ever run. I got more and more worried I had missed a turn off...finally a mtb guy came by and I asked if I was close to the Slick Rock trail head...he asked what I was doing...I told him I was trying to finish a 148 mile run on Kokopelli's trail...he said "holy shit" that is awesome and yeah the finish is like 200 yards around that rock! I couldn't believe it. I took off and there it was...all my friends and the finish line! I HAD MADE IT! Lots of tears hugs and congratulations! Of course much smack talk as well. We had done it.
If you have made it this far congratulation...this race is still a blur in my mind and I am missing many details I know...I have never had such an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and I am truly proud of myself for getting through this race. I have many people to thank...I know I will miss many but if you are reading this you are to thank as you have listened to me tell tales of running and endurance sport for a long time and are a part of everything I do....thanks to Reid, John, Sam, Josh, Glenn, Karen, Mark, Doc (the crew) also thanks to Chris, Tom, Kyle, Juliann, Ashley, Jeremy, Shaun, Morgan the runners...Heather, Eric, Lasha, Ryan and Matt the mtb gang...
What a week.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Time draw near....
Okay ya'll, I should have taken the whole week off I am so outta here mentally. We leave Wed around 3 for one of the biggest adventures LMS and I have every embarked on. So much of it is unknown but the feelings are very familiar...The nervous energy is out the roof...The radical mood swings are in full pull...the packing and unpacking of gear is getting out of hand...wondering if I have too much...too little...have I done too much training or not enough. I have hit pucker factor
10+...just where I should be.
I usually post Mr. Presslers "Alice in wonderland" piece this time of year just before racing another Ironman...I was looking for it today and sadly I must have deleted it...no matter as it doesn't really ring true with the race I have spent the last 8 months or so getting prepared for.
I haven't filled my log book pages in for a couple weeks. This happens every year as an event gets near. I just cannot bring myself to look. I do know that last week has put me at 500+ hours of training. This included weeks off for my ankle break and some sick weeks that occurred.
I haven't spent any time to speak of in the pool. Probably account for 2 hours total.
Last count there were less than 20 people toeing the line. There will be no expo...there will be no banquets...there will be very few aid stations at most there is one each stage with one or two water drops...I won't have anyone yelling YOU ARE A DESERT RAT...the start and the finish are no more than a line drawn in the sand by the race directors heal. This alone makes me smile like an idiot.
tick tock...tick tock...it all comes down to this.
10+...just where I should be.
I usually post Mr. Presslers "Alice in wonderland" piece this time of year just before racing another Ironman...I was looking for it today and sadly I must have deleted it...no matter as it doesn't really ring true with the race I have spent the last 8 months or so getting prepared for.
I haven't filled my log book pages in for a couple weeks. This happens every year as an event gets near. I just cannot bring myself to look. I do know that last week has put me at 500+ hours of training. This included weeks off for my ankle break and some sick weeks that occurred.
I haven't spent any time to speak of in the pool. Probably account for 2 hours total.
Last count there were less than 20 people toeing the line. There will be no expo...there will be no banquets...there will be very few aid stations at most there is one each stage with one or two water drops...I won't have anyone yelling YOU ARE A DESERT RAT...the start and the finish are no more than a line drawn in the sand by the race directors heal. This alone makes me smile like an idiot.
tick tock...tick tock...it all comes down to this.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Today
Today is June 1, 2009
I am physically and emotionally drained beyond anything I have done outside the military. The gear is in the spare bedroom starring at me. We still have a couple odds and ends to pick up and still need to figure out exactly what we need to pack in our race bag…I can't even concentrate enough to put a clear thought together long enough to get it done. LMS injury issues are better but not 100% adding to the mounting pile on my shoulders. I am more unsure of my training than ever before. I suppose I have been here before yet this is different in so many ways. This run is looming bigger and bigger each day. Yet I am smiling.
I took Thru and Friday off to try and save what is left of my sanity. Had some friends in town racing Tulsa Tough…3 days of crit racing. I so wanted to be on my bike riding 30+ down main in a pack of 70. Watching the pro's race is something everyone should do. These guys do it so freaking smooth it is sick. Our team had a few scattered out in various cats. Our P/1 girl was 19th on Friday in her first race back in over 5 years and I hope she can continue to be in the saddle despite all that life throws at her young life. She is a good kid and I hope she can keep it together. The crashes were beyond crazy as is the hill off of riverside…some 200 people drinking in various stages of dress throwing money in a hat for "crowd preems". Just a great time…high notes…saw Ms Hatch and got my picture taken with Floyd Landis…he was really cool about and I approached him as he finished his warm up and was going to the call up. He was just so happy to be out there riding his bike. I like him. I hope he continues to ride and has success in whatever he does.
I also got some running in only 8 1/2 hours running this weekend but honestly I don't think I could have done anymore. I just hope it is enough. The hay is in the barn and we will spend the next 13 days doing shorter runs in the heat of the day and hopefully getting enough rest to put our gear in order. Still doesn't seem real. Had a good run yesterday with the crew…the main topic is "what are you running next". My answer is simple…"can't see past June 20th at this point".
So anyway those are my thoughts right now.
I am physically and emotionally drained beyond anything I have done outside the military. The gear is in the spare bedroom starring at me. We still have a couple odds and ends to pick up and still need to figure out exactly what we need to pack in our race bag…I can't even concentrate enough to put a clear thought together long enough to get it done. LMS injury issues are better but not 100% adding to the mounting pile on my shoulders. I am more unsure of my training than ever before. I suppose I have been here before yet this is different in so many ways. This run is looming bigger and bigger each day. Yet I am smiling.
I took Thru and Friday off to try and save what is left of my sanity. Had some friends in town racing Tulsa Tough…3 days of crit racing. I so wanted to be on my bike riding 30+ down main in a pack of 70. Watching the pro's race is something everyone should do. These guys do it so freaking smooth it is sick. Our team had a few scattered out in various cats. Our P/1 girl was 19th on Friday in her first race back in over 5 years and I hope she can continue to be in the saddle despite all that life throws at her young life. She is a good kid and I hope she can keep it together. The crashes were beyond crazy as is the hill off of riverside…some 200 people drinking in various stages of dress throwing money in a hat for "crowd preems". Just a great time…high notes…saw Ms Hatch and got my picture taken with Floyd Landis…he was really cool about and I approached him as he finished his warm up and was going to the call up. He was just so happy to be out there riding his bike. I like him. I hope he continues to ride and has success in whatever he does.
I also got some running in only 8 1/2 hours running this weekend but honestly I don't think I could have done anymore. I just hope it is enough. The hay is in the barn and we will spend the next 13 days doing shorter runs in the heat of the day and hopefully getting enough rest to put our gear in order. Still doesn't seem real. Had a good run yesterday with the crew…the main topic is "what are you running next". My answer is simple…"can't see past June 20th at this point".
So anyway those are my thoughts right now.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
long time
Man things are busy getting ready for rats. Ran a trail marathon in KS last weekend 4:45 and change...muddy as a mother fucker and hilly and rocky and rooty...most fun.
I need to be more diligent with posting...I slack therefore I am
I need to be more diligent with posting...I slack therefore I am
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Monday, April 6, 2009
Another 50k race...
Makes two in two weeks, I am pretty beat right now and only trained 13 hours last week but the race took a lot out of me. It warmed up to about 85 degrees and we just haven't had that kind of weather yet...
Met up with some friends Friday night in Guthrie OK, ate BBQ of all things and hit the rack fairly early. For some reason I was a little on edge. I think it was because I really wanted to run well and a little smack talk was in my brain...I know better than that...but it did motivate me.
Got to the race course and the wind was blowing like hell. It was a little cold just before that start. Shelley said she was feeling good and wanted to take off. I was totally fucking worried about her...she ran way too fast and smartly withdrew after about 22 miles.
I started on the north loop a bit too fast. My plan was to take it easy on the first north loop then pick it up on south loop...then ease back on the second north loop then empty the tank on the second south loop....
I was a bit ahead of schedule coming off the first loop. I had lost touch with al and malane but wasn't too worried...made a quick ditch of my long sleeve shirt had 1/2 a redbull and was off on the south trail...I felt great and was flying but it was getting hot...I got to the button hook on the south trail and didn't see al or malane...I knew I was within a 1/2 mile since that is about the distance around the button hook...I don't know if this was a good thing or not because it sent me into chase mode...I was coming in to the transition area and as I passed the bathroom Malane was coming out of it...I knew I was really close...
Another 1/2 redbull as I watched Al and Malane head out of the second north loop...I caught them fairly soon and just hung with them for rest of the north loop...I was really starting to feel the heat and it was starting to work on my legs. I was ready to be done...
Coming into to start the second south loop Shelley was there and had withdraw...I felt so bad for her as she was on course record pace by a long shot. She could have walked the finish and still won...I just don't know what she needs to be fixed an back to her normal running self. I just really worry about her...
...I took off on the last loop and was feeling tired, hot and ready to be done but I thought I was in the top 10 so I wanted to stay there. Going out I saw a few dudes that were ahead of my and didn't know how. I was totally confused later I found out they started an hour earlier...Anyway I got to the button hook and started my watch to see if I had put any time on Al and Malane as they left the transision after I did...I got to the trail intersection and there they were so I knew I had about 5 min on them but I was really starting to hurt...I just keep digging and pushing...finally I was within a mile from the finish and I started to relax...dumb move I got passed by the 1st place female with about 200 yds to go...no worries I still finish 8th overall. So a good day on two 50k's in two weeks.
Met up with some friends Friday night in Guthrie OK, ate BBQ of all things and hit the rack fairly early. For some reason I was a little on edge. I think it was because I really wanted to run well and a little smack talk was in my brain...I know better than that...but it did motivate me.
Got to the race course and the wind was blowing like hell. It was a little cold just before that start. Shelley said she was feeling good and wanted to take off. I was totally fucking worried about her...she ran way too fast and smartly withdrew after about 22 miles.
I started on the north loop a bit too fast. My plan was to take it easy on the first north loop then pick it up on south loop...then ease back on the second north loop then empty the tank on the second south loop....
I was a bit ahead of schedule coming off the first loop. I had lost touch with al and malane but wasn't too worried...made a quick ditch of my long sleeve shirt had 1/2 a redbull and was off on the south trail...I felt great and was flying but it was getting hot...I got to the button hook on the south trail and didn't see al or malane...I knew I was within a 1/2 mile since that is about the distance around the button hook...I don't know if this was a good thing or not because it sent me into chase mode...I was coming in to the transition area and as I passed the bathroom Malane was coming out of it...I knew I was really close...
Another 1/2 redbull as I watched Al and Malane head out of the second north loop...I caught them fairly soon and just hung with them for rest of the north loop...I was really starting to feel the heat and it was starting to work on my legs. I was ready to be done...
Coming into to start the second south loop Shelley was there and had withdraw...I felt so bad for her as she was on course record pace by a long shot. She could have walked the finish and still won...I just don't know what she needs to be fixed an back to her normal running self. I just really worry about her...
...I took off on the last loop and was feeling tired, hot and ready to be done but I thought I was in the top 10 so I wanted to stay there. Going out I saw a few dudes that were ahead of my and didn't know how. I was totally confused later I found out they started an hour earlier...Anyway I got to the button hook and started my watch to see if I had put any time on Al and Malane as they left the transision after I did...I got to the trail intersection and there they were so I knew I had about 5 min on them but I was really starting to hurt...I just keep digging and pushing...finally I was within a mile from the finish and I started to relax...dumb move I got passed by the 1st place female with about 200 yds to go...no worries I still finish 8th overall. So a good day on two 50k's in two weeks.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Somedays
I just sit in my office and think what the fuck is wrong with people. I hear more fucking bitching, complaining, whining that should be allowed by law...
Why am I noticing more and more of the people who just can't find one thing in there day that is good.
Just makes me sad.
Wake up people life is good
Why am I noticing more and more of the people who just can't find one thing in there day that is good.
Just makes me sad.
Wake up people life is good
Good week
Week wound up being pretty good...total training time was 14:15...Only about 5 hours running though...Snowed like a bitch on Sat and our sat trail run was more of a hike slog whatever...
Sunday's run was good. We got on the paved trail and go in 11 miles..we were running fairly fast for that distance at least for me...right at 9:30's. Felt pretty good surpisingly...
Going to try and get a solid week this week. It is going to be tough with all the crap going on...running the Lake McMurtry 50k the 4th of April....that will be 4 50k's in 4 months.
Sunday's run was good. We got on the paved trail and go in 11 miles..we were running fairly fast for that distance at least for me...right at 9:30's. Felt pretty good surpisingly...
Going to try and get a solid week this week. It is going to be tough with all the crap going on...running the Lake McMurtry 50k the 4th of April....that will be 4 50k's in 4 months.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Crash week and the 6 hour Snake run...
I came up a little short on total hours but rocked the fuck out of the run! Feeling awesome...just hope Shelley can pull it together...
Report as follows
Today was the Tulsa Area Trail and Ultra Runners 6 hour snake run...easy peasy run for 6 hours...who ever runs the furthest wins...It is a 4 mile loop no real hills just a couple inclines...there is also a 1/2 mile loop once you get to the point you can't make a full loop or you just want to get in some odd miles...
I have been running a little bit lately and riding as well...here is my training schedule since Sat 3/14
3/14
Bike 1:45
Run 2:00
3/15
Run 2:30
Bike 1:00
3/16
Bike :45
Run 1:15
3/17
Run 2:30 (split run)
Bike 1:30
3/18
Bike 1:45
Run 2:15 (split run)
3/19
Bike 1:30
Run :45
3/20
DOR
today the snake run 6 hours...I was a little worried that my legs were toast...I figured to try and get 24 miles in and call it good...I was running with our normal group and was really feeling fit...we made the first loop pretty slow but not in bad shape...same with the second...we started dropping people...then the third and more were pulling off...then the 4th mile 16 and we were down to a few of us...my bud Glen and I are freaking laughing and cheering everyone we pass...the course loops back on it self so you get to see everyone...5th lap mile 20...and my legs are really feeling good...hmmmm might make 50k at this rate if I don't fall apart. My 50k pr is just over 6 hours...lap 6 and it is Glen and I the rest of our group has dropped off and we have been lapping people. We speculate that we are in the top 10 over all and no one is older than me up the trail....lap 7 and we are feeling as good as the first....we get back to the start finish but decided to run 6 loops of the 1/2 mile trail to get 50k in...this was a little more technical and my legs were really starting to hurt. We got 6 laps in in just under 5:46 a new 50k PR for me by 14 minutes or so. I decided to trot another lap finished with 31.5 mies in under 5:55.
I finished in 5th or 6th place and 1st masters I believe...no results yet as they really only do 1st male and female over all at the awards ceremony...there were just over 155 starters....
This is the first run I didn't suck at.
Report as follows
Today was the Tulsa Area Trail and Ultra Runners 6 hour snake run...easy peasy run for 6 hours...who ever runs the furthest wins...It is a 4 mile loop no real hills just a couple inclines...there is also a 1/2 mile loop once you get to the point you can't make a full loop or you just want to get in some odd miles...
I have been running a little bit lately and riding as well...here is my training schedule since Sat 3/14
3/14
Bike 1:45
Run 2:00
3/15
Run 2:30
Bike 1:00
3/16
Bike :45
Run 1:15
3/17
Run 2:30 (split run)
Bike 1:30
3/18
Bike 1:45
Run 2:15 (split run)
3/19
Bike 1:30
Run :45
3/20
DOR
today the snake run 6 hours...I was a little worried that my legs were toast...I figured to try and get 24 miles in and call it good...I was running with our normal group and was really feeling fit...we made the first loop pretty slow but not in bad shape...same with the second...we started dropping people...then the third and more were pulling off...then the 4th mile 16 and we were down to a few of us...my bud Glen and I are freaking laughing and cheering everyone we pass...the course loops back on it self so you get to see everyone...5th lap mile 20...and my legs are really feeling good...hmmmm might make 50k at this rate if I don't fall apart. My 50k pr is just over 6 hours...lap 6 and it is Glen and I the rest of our group has dropped off and we have been lapping people. We speculate that we are in the top 10 over all and no one is older than me up the trail....lap 7 and we are feeling as good as the first....we get back to the start finish but decided to run 6 loops of the 1/2 mile trail to get 50k in...this was a little more technical and my legs were really starting to hurt. We got 6 laps in in just under 5:46 a new 50k PR for me by 14 minutes or so. I decided to trot another lap finished with 31.5 mies in under 5:55.
I finished in 5th or 6th place and 1st masters I believe...no results yet as they really only do 1st male and female over all at the awards ceremony...there were just over 155 starters....
This is the first run I didn't suck at.
Nothing but a big grin after this one....man it was good
Monday, March 16, 2009
Crash Week has begun...
Okay it is spring break here in Okie land...I am going to take Wed thru Fri off from work and put in some long training...My hope is to be north of 20 hours total...with at least 10 of that being running...like a dip shit we signed up for a 6 hour trail race on Sat now I have to save some legs for that...I might take tomorrow as well...
So this morning was a 45 min spin to get the past two days of running out of my legs.
Hey looks like the fucking canadians are going to give us a break this week with their stupid shit cold weather....I love you KonaShelley :) I really do.
So this morning was a 45 min spin to get the past two days of running out of my legs.
Hey looks like the fucking canadians are going to give us a break this week with their stupid shit cold weather....I love you KonaShelley :) I really do.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Cold again
fuck you canada seriously fuck you.
Okay last weekend was Salt Creek crit...hilly, fucking wind blowing 40+ had a blast though and rode pretty well for the training. I was off the main group that went to the line but felt good after about the 3rd lap...I should have buried myself to stay on but my legs were having none of it. I flatted with 1 1/2 to go but I was lucky and only 20 meters from the pit...quick change of the tire and I killed to get back to the little group I was with. Wound up 29th out of 54...we had a ton of DNF's it was a tough race...
Good training this week but the fucking cold is bumming me out...next week is spring break and my goal is to run 10+ plus hours...
Okay last weekend was Salt Creek crit...hilly, fucking wind blowing 40+ had a blast though and rode pretty well for the training. I was off the main group that went to the line but felt good after about the 3rd lap...I should have buried myself to stay on but my legs were having none of it. I flatted with 1 1/2 to go but I was lucky and only 20 meters from the pit...quick change of the tire and I killed to get back to the little group I was with. Wound up 29th out of 54...we had a ton of DNF's it was a tough race...
Good training this week but the fucking cold is bumming me out...next week is spring break and my goal is to run 10+ plus hours...
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Spring time already!
Shit I need some warm...serious warm....like full on sweat your ass off warm. I am sick if tights, I am sick of gloves, I am sick of stocking hats, I am sick of jackets.....
All is well in training land beside really wanting warmth. Good runs this weekend. I took my first run with by race pack and it had 102 oz of water...that shit is heavy.
Looks like I am going to race Salt Creek Circuit race this weekend. I have no stinking fitness so it should be embarrassing as hell.
All is well in training land beside really wanting warmth. Good runs this weekend. I took my first run with by race pack and it had 102 oz of water...that shit is heavy.
Looks like I am going to race Salt Creek Circuit race this weekend. I have no stinking fitness so it should be embarrassing as hell.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Another good week
Despite all that is going on I did manage another good week. Total was 14 hours about even split between bike and run. Legs are feeling good.
Sad note a bud who I race with decided that the world would be a better place without him ended his life this weekend. Fucking stupid and I am bummed for his kids.
Who knows what a person is thinking especially in times like these...I just wish I could have stopped it.
RIP Brett
Sad note a bud who I race with decided that the world would be a better place without him ended his life this weekend. Fucking stupid and I am bummed for his kids.
Who knows what a person is thinking especially in times like these...I just wish I could have stopped it.
RIP Brett
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Damn I am tired...Mom Update
Well at this time mom is still in ICU. The prognosis is good according to her doc but man I just don't feel it. She won't freakind to ANYTHING to help the situation...it is so fucking frustrating. I just do not understand it. Some very simple things would make the situation so much better...but she won't hear of it. Arghhhhhhhhh
Well training wise I have been doing pretty well just to beat down the frustration that life is dealing me right now. A long run in the woods is an awesome escape.
Well training wise I have been doing pretty well just to beat down the frustration that life is dealing me right now. A long run in the woods is an awesome escape.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Sometimes you realize
...how short life is. Lots of emotions today. Mom has been in and out of ICU with pneumonia this weekend. I think she will be okay but just so many issues surrounding that. I just wish these were happier days for her.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Quick update
Last week wound up pretty good. 12.5 hours total training with 3.5 running. It was freaking awesome to get back in the woods and run. I can't believe how bad I missed it.
This week is starting pretty good despite some work shit....
On a philosophical note...why do people here insist on being assholes?
This week is starting pretty good despite some work shit....
On a philosophical note...why do people here insist on being assholes?
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Twas a good day
Good spin this morning for an hour...ez 30 min run after work followed by a 45 min trainer ride...
I'm so hungry I could eat the ass out of a skunk
it is good to be running.
I'm so hungry I could eat the ass out of a skunk
it is good to be running.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Much much better
EZ spin this am...
I have had enough...had to get in the mud today. I was giving every fucking rock the stink eye as I was running. I was daring one of them sumbitches to roll my ankle...no worries, I think we have made peace...45 min in the woods YES!
Had to celebrate so I got on the trainer when I got home to spin for 45 more!
I have had enough...had to get in the mud today. I was giving every fucking rock the stink eye as I was running. I was daring one of them sumbitches to roll my ankle...no worries, I think we have made peace...45 min in the woods YES!
Had to celebrate so I got on the trainer when I got home to spin for 45 more!
Monday, February 2, 2009
Why the fuck am I so tired
I damn sure hope it was two 30 min runs this weekend...
No running today got a easy 45 min trainer ride...tired tonight so I am going to lay off my evening session. Tomorrow should be good.
No running today got a easy 45 min trainer ride...tired tonight so I am going to lay off my evening session. Tomorrow should be good.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Day two in a long journey
Day 2: Nice ride on the trainer this morning watching the grrrrrls world champs of cyclocross...cool that an american was on the podium...keep my HR nice and high..
Ran 30 min again today and it felt MUCH better than yesterday.
Just a few more runs and I will be ready bwhahahahaha
Going to the pub for a burger in celebration...
Ran 30 min again today and it felt MUCH better than yesterday.
Just a few more runs and I will be ready bwhahahahaha
Going to the pub for a burger in celebration...
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Man that hurts
For some reason I have been locked out of this page at work...I think they are on to me surfing porn...
Any not much to comment on over the past three days...snow, ice and being sick have taken their toll...Feeling better now for the most part..
I did my first real run this morning...30 min HOLY SHIT MY LEGS HURT! about the only thing that didn't hurt was my ankle...my quads felt like they were about to explode...well at least we were moving
Any not much to comment on over the past three days...snow, ice and being sick have taken their toll...Feeling better now for the most part..
I did my first real run this morning...30 min HOLY SHIT MY LEGS HURT! about the only thing that didn't hurt was my ankle...my quads felt like they were about to explode...well at least we were moving
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Here goes nothing
OK it has been awhile...6 weeks no running since the ankle went snap. I got the okay from the doc but still took a few more days. Shelley is still dealing with her injuries and finally got the go to walk. Man, what a fucked up way to start this journey. I am afraid she won't be able to get the training in to even start the race....
They say the journey of a 1000 miles starts with one step...I guess the run of 148 miles starts with uncertainty and fear. I did jog a few steps Sunday with some sorness in the ankle.
Man, I just hope we can get there....
Anyway I started this blog to journal this trip so I will be updating often....
Today started with no training. It has been raining ice here for about 24 hours...roads are shit...I have a head cold...
I just hope to look back at this entry in 7 months and think it was funny.
They say the journey of a 1000 miles starts with one step...I guess the run of 148 miles starts with uncertainty and fear. I did jog a few steps Sunday with some sorness in the ankle.
Man, I just hope we can get there....
Anyway I started this blog to journal this trip so I will be updating often....
Today started with no training. It has been raining ice here for about 24 hours...roads are shit...I have a head cold...
I just hope to look back at this entry in 7 months and think it was funny.
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