Tahoe Rim Trail 100 Mile Race Report 2014

"A Glimpse of Heaven...........a Taste of Hell" is the motto for The Tahoe Rim Trails Endurance Runs. I was once again signed up for the 100 mile run. I had some unfinished business that I hoped to complete this go around. Like any race or 100 mile run this run is challenging. I have been coming to Tahoe every July for the past 4 years. Running the 50k twice, the 50 miler once and now attempting the 100 mile for the second time. I was determined this year that things would be different, I trained hard, I focused on my fueling, I had an amazing crew and pacers. All was set, now all I had to do was run.

The night before the race my crew and I reminisced over the past few months of training. We laughed and laughed the night away. Trailmomma has been my running partner for years, but this past year she was with me for just about every long run and boy did we have stories to tell. I think sitting there around the kitchen table and sharing and remembering our runs was one my favorite parts about the trip.

The morning of the race I awoke really early. I couldn't sleep, I had some major anxiety and when the alarm finally went off I bounced out of bed full of energy and ready to start the morning. My wife made me eggs, pancakes, ham, and strawberries. I enjoyed this meal like it was going to be my last. We arrived at the starting line about an hour before the race started and I found us a nice spot on the benches to relax and take in all the excitement. Soon it was time to head to the starting line. I kissed my wife and said " I will see you at diamond." and off I went into the cool morning.

Photo By Trailmomma, what was waiting for me on the kitchen table

Start To Hobart:

Right Before the start

The start to Hobart begins on a fire road. I quickly settled into a nice a pace. Soon the line began as we squeezed our way onto the single track trail. I wasn't in a hurry, I didn't try to pass anyone but there were plenty of runners passing me. I wasn't moving slow, I was moving just as quickly as the runner in front me. It was a comfortable power hike as we were climbing, or I should say snaking our way to the top before a nice descent down to Marlette lake. This year I took it all in. I took the time to look up ahead and also below me as the lights from everyone's flashlights were pretty amazing to see. Plus it kept my mind occupied and focused on the current task at hand, to make my way to Hobart aid station, roughly 6 miles. I arrived into Hobart on schedule and quickly gathered my drop bag and enjoyed a Special K breakfast bar. It was easy to eat as it was soft and tasted really good. I was also fueling with Power Gel as I had stopped using the prepetuam as I was getting sick while I trained with it. 

Hobart To Tunnel Creek:

I was in and out of Hobart rather quickly and started the climb up to peak and a gorgeous view of the lakes. I again settled into my pace and focused on the next 5 miles to Tunnel Creek. I knew that trail was super runnable once I crested the peak and I had a nice downhill section into Tunnel Creek. I also knew not to open up to much as the day was just beginning. I arrived at the downhill section and enjoyed the nice smooth rollers and switch backs to Tunnel Creek. I passed a few runners, but I didn't push the pace.I was running comfortable. I was excited to get to Tunnel Creek as my some of my crew were going to be there, I always enjoy seeing a friendly face or two when I am on this trail. Trailmomma and her friend from Canada Be-Well-Run would be at Tunnel Creek and with each step that brought me closer to Tunnel, the bigger my smile became. I arrived into Tunnel right on schedule, and quickly grabbed my drop bag and supplies, refilled my pack and departed. Trailmomma and Be-Well-Run were both waiting for me and cheering loud. It was awesome to see them. 

Photo by Trailmomma, Leaving Tunnel Creek #1 on my way to Red House Loop

Tunnel Creek to Red House Loop

The next section of trail was a 6 mile loop with a massive descent to the lowest elevation on the course. This descent is a quad buster and bone jarring. I took it conservatively on the descent. Here I saw a lot of the front runners and some of the faster 50k and 50 milers started to pass me as they started an hour after us. It is pretty cool to see and even better on the climb back out to offer and receive words of encouragement. I started the slow climb on the fire road. Running some here and power hiking some there. I hit the red house aid station and quickly did my best at making a ice bandana and cooling myself off as the day was getting warm, a bit warmer then previously reported. I knew this next section would be a grind so I just put my head down and continued on my way. Finally I hit the real climb out and slowly started to make my way back to Tunnel Creek. It was tough and it was hot. I just put my head down and carried on. Soon I could see my crew and Trailmomma comes running down to me and asked "How are you?" a harmless question, I quickly say "Why?" a not so harmless answer. She was a bit concerned because in years past I have run this flat section. I was feeling that climb out. I quickly avoided her question and looked at Be-Well-Run and asked "How did you enjoy the climb into Tunnel Creek?" she said "This isn't about me it's about you, how are you?" Such a great crew!!!!! I of course needed some calories and to recover from the climb so I entered Tunnel Creek and took my time getting situated. 

Photo By: Trailmomma, coming out of the red house loop, still smiling 

Photo By: Trailmomma, getting weighed for the first time, down 1 pound

As I entered Tunnel Creek I immediately was weighed. I was down 1 pound from Friday's weigh in, nothing to be concerned about. After weighing in I went and grabbed my drop bag and ate a special K bar, grabbed my bottle to help cool me down during the next 12 miles and picked up a few more gels. Then I sat down in the chair and emptied out my shoes, they were full of sand and pebbles, plus this gave me a moment to breath. Then I gathered my things and used the restroom and told my crew "At diamond have ensure and gatorade ready, I will see you guys there." and off I went to the cheering of my crew. (I also forgot to cross the timing mat, but my crew saved the day and told them)

Tunnel Creek to Bull Wheel to Diamond Peak:

Now I was on the longest stretch of trail, but I wasn't alone. My friend Tina who was also running the 100 miler was with me. We talked and talked, which made the 3 miles fly by. We arrived at bull wheel grabbed some food and started on the 9 mile stretch. I was carrying my water bottle to help keep my cool, as last year I burned up going through here. This year I wasn't going to make the same mistake. I started to notice my energy levels getting low, so I ate a special K bar and took in a gel. Soon, instead of power hiking I was running again. The fuel was what I needed. I pushed on keeping a nice comfortable pace, power hiking some here and there. Then I made that left turn and knew I had 4 miles to Diamond peak and my crew. On this descent though my stomach I had a stomach cramp and had to walk some of the downhill, which was fine as it saved my legs. I was near Diamond Peak so I changed my focus on what I needed instead of how I was feeling. I wasn't feeling terrible, but I also wasn't feeling good. The descent seemed to never end and all I wanted was for the descent to end. Soon, I could hear cheering and I knew I was close. I popped out of the trail and hit the parking lot and my crew immediately went into action. 

Arriving at Diamond Peak Aid Station

I told my crew I had put together a nice 12 mile section, in fact so much better then the previous years. I was stoked about that. I was focused coming into Diamond Peak. My crew took my pack and cooled me down as I walked to check in. Once I checked in they showed me our spot and I went to the bathroom. I was having a bit of discomfort (put lightly) and I needed to address it. I used the restroom, and it hurt. I was chaffed pretty good in that area and it was bleeding as well. In  my efforts this year to keep cool by squirting myself the water my shorts chaffed me in the groin. It hurt, I was swollen, but I was also determined. After the bathroom, I emptied out the pebbles and sand in my shoes, ate some food, drank some coke and was ready to go. 

Diamond Peak, taking care of the sand and pebbles

Photo By: Be-Well-Run, (I should have tried to keep my shorts dry)

I also soaked myself with the hose. I was overheating and it felt so good to cool down. My crew was fantastic here, they had me in and out in no time. I was excited to see them and also excited that this year I came into Diamond Peak in much better condition then last year. 

Kuni and I

Diamond Peak to Bull Wheel:

I was now on  my way up the 2 mile climb of the ski slope. Kuni walked me out a bit and told me to take my time on this climb. I had plenty of time, in fact, he told me to slow down, that it was ok to walk the downhills. I thanked him and off I went. I had my water bottle to keep me cool and I was fueled up. The first mile of the climb isn't that tough, I hiked it and I would pause in the shade when there was some to recover. Soon Tina caught up to me and we both worked our way up the hill. We would pause in the shade on the steeper section, and soon we were pausing every so many feet. It was brutal, but you know what, I was doing better then last year. As we climbed I looked to our left and noticed a storm cell coming in. I told Tina about it and that I hoped it hit us on our way to Tunnel Creek and not Snow Valley. I could hear the thunder in the distance. We climbed and climbed and eventually made our way to bull wheel. Once at bull wheel, we enjoyed the best tasting water mellon I have had this year (Ok, it has been the only water mellon I have had, but it was delicious.) We took some time here, I ate another special k bar and a gel. That climb took a lot out of me and I knew I needed the calories. 

Bull Wheel to Tunnel Creek:

Tina and I were both on our way to Tunnel Creek. It was 3 miles pretty much downhill to the aid station. I had a nice pace going, but I was also uncomfortable, the chaffing was getting worse, and causing a lot of pain. I sat down and emptied a boulder of a rock out of my shoes and then carried on. By this point Tina was a good distance ahead of me and moving well. I was feeling pretty bad and all I could focus on was the chaffing. I couldn't move past it. It burned. I eventually arrived at Tunnel Creek along with some sprinkles. Here I weighed in again and was down another pound, again nothing to be worried over the volunteer said. After weighing I grabbed my drop bag. I ate a Honey Stinger Waffle, a gel, a quarter of a pay day bar, and drank some coke. I took my time in this aid station. I also put the water bottle in my drop bag, and pondered over grabbing my rain jacket. (I had packed a wind breaker in my Hobart drop bag, my rain jacket in the tunnel creek drop bag, and my crew had a wind breaker at the 50 mile marker) I decided against (a decision that would prove costly in the miles to come). It only sprinkled a bit, so at the time I wasn't to concerned about the weather. 

Tunnel Creek To Hobart:

I left tunnel creek hoping that the calories I had just put in would help me get back on track. I also had plenty of food and gels in my pack to refuel on my way. I knew that this next section would have a lot of power hiking and the only thing was, my legs left empty. I didn't have any power in them. I slowly made my way up each switch back and just kept moving forward. This was not good. What just happened? I couldn't believe how bad I was feeling. I tried to focus on the smaller picture of just getting to Hobart and not how many miles I had left. But it was hard, I cried some on the way to Hobart. I was struggling. I kept thinking that the calories needed some time to digest and that I would start to feel better. I kept moving forward switch back after every switch back, the process was slow and painful. The sun was no longer out and the storm clouds at any moment would open up. I slowly arrived at Hobart and just looked at the volunteers. The color was gone from my face and I eventually asked for some warm soup. I sat down and pondered what to do. I grabbed my drop bag and ate a waffle and a gel. I also grabbed my light wind breaker. I sat back down, looked at the volunteers and asked about the situation on snow valley. She responded "It hasn't been evacuated yet. But it is cold up there." I said thank you and packed my wind breaker. Before I could stand up a tremendous boom sounded and streak of lightening danced in the sky. The volunteer was again looked at me and said "Well, it is evacuating right now with that." I held my breath and could only think, I am getting ready to head that way into the storm. 

Hobart to Snow Valley:

I left Hobart, not fully recharged, but ready non the less. I was hiking my way into the storm and secretly hoping it wouldn't be that bad. I mean I was only going to 9,250 feet. I deep down knew better and quickly increased my power hike. I didn't know what to expect, but with each step forward the thunder slowly grew. It started as small growl and slowly grew the higher I got. Then the lightening came, it was bright and seemed very close. I would count until I heard the thunder and then another crack only this time it scared me and I screamed. It was close, closer the I ever want to be. The thunder and lightening were really close and there wasn't anything I could do. Then it slowly started to rain, I unpacked my wind breaker and put it on. Just in time as I placed my hood on my head, the hail came down in buckets. I was in a hail storm and each pelt of hail hurt. The lightening was till dancing around me and the thunder was loud. Then it poured buckets of rain and the trail slowly vanished to river. I saw some runners running to tree line. I followed and asked what they are doing as I knew if I stopped hypothermia would set in in these conditions. The guy looked at me and said "Do you want to go to the aid station." I said "yes." He said "Ok, let's do this together as if we stay here we will get hypothermic." I said "Ok" and off we went. I were sprinting on the trail with the thunder and rain. It was raining so loud we could hardly here each other when we spoke. We picked up a few other runners and together we made our way to Snow Valley, which I was pretty sure would be empty and not be a safe place to stay. We crested the last small hill and were completely exposed with the lightening dancing where it choose. We rushed into the tent and were greeted by a volunteer who told us they had to evacuate and that it was best to keep moving as stopping now we were at risk for hypothermia. I quickly drank a ensure thanked the volunteer and started down the river trail. 

Snow Valley To Spooner Lake (mile 50):

My feet by now were killing me. They were completely soaked and freezing from run off. I couldn't keep them out of the puddles/river. The chaffing was even worse now and I was cold, I couldn't feel my hands. Each step on a rock my feet screamed at me. They were tender and sore from being soaking wet. I was suffering, but that is all part of a 100 miler. The question was how much and how long could I suffer. I slowly made my way down to the tree line and here it wasn't as cold, but I was still cold. I knew my crew was probably worried about me as I was off schedule. This 7 miles was longest thus far for me. It was pure torture, each step caused bolts of pain to shot through my body. By far the worst was the chaffing as the rain didn't help me. I slowly made my way down. Eventually I arrived at the lake level and soon I saw Kuni, my pacer and friend. I became emotional in seeing him and quickly told him about snow valley how I had gotten caught out in the storm. He looked at very supportive and said "so you experienced yourself a mini Hardrock." You see Kuni had just completed Hardrock the weekend before and had run in far worse weather then I, so yes, you could say it was a mini Hardrock experience for me. He walked me into the 50 mile aid station and my crew went to work. 

My crew and others trying to keep everything dry including themselves. 

Mile 50:

They rushed soup to me and were just thankful that I had some kind of a jacket in. I told them I was cold, the chaffing was out of control and my feet were killing me. My wife told me to sit down so that she could assess the situation and fix my feet. We took my soak off and she said "oh wow, your feet are water logged." They were so water logged, we couldn't repair the 3 blisters I had. I had a blister on the sole of foot and on both pinky toe. Last year I had blisters in between each toe, so this was far better then last year. The bad part was we couldn't dry my feet out, they tried, they put foot warmers on my feet. I also shared my concern in regards to the chaffing. It was really bad, so bad I could hardly run. I looked at my crew and knew I had a tough decision to make. They could see that I was torn with what needed to happen. I wasn't able to run due to the chaffing and  my feet were water logged. I looked at my wife and told her to turn in my chip. I was pulling the plug here. It was a serious blow to me. I came into mile 50 mentally ready tackle 50 more miles, but with the chaffing and water logged feet, physically I couldn't. The chaffing was/is getting worse and with me just sitting there, I was on fire it hurt that bad. I kept apologizing to my crew and pacers as they had invested so much time and energy to support me all day and through out my training. I felt like a failure and a disappointment. They kept reassuring me that it was ok, that ultimately it was my decision and a tough one at that. To this day, I question myself on that call. But ultimately in the end, there was no way I could have gone on. 

My amazing crew: Be-Well-Run, Trailmomma,and Rachel my wife (we are expecting our first baby)

Well I be back........maybe......is there another race this season?........maybe?.............

Thank you to my amazing crew for being there all day and braving the storm. Thank you to my very supportive wife for supporting me through the many long training days, I love you so much. Thank you to my friends and family for believing in me, I may have fallen short, but I am not finished.

American River 50 Mile Race Report 2013

I was nervous upon arriving at the start line of AR50. Why? I am not sure. I have run this race before, I know the course, I had my estimated times of arrival based on my fitness. I was ready. Maybe I was nervous because anything can happen during a 50 miler. Once I lined up at the starting line all those nerves went away. 3---2---1--- it was go time!

I settled into a nice comfortable pace, not pushing it and running very relaxed and comfortable. I was going to run my race and not get pulled into the wrong pace. I mean 50 miles is a long ways and I knew I couldn't make any big mistakes at the beginning. My projected time I  knew I could achieve going into Beals which is mile 27 was around a 4:20 - 4:30. My fitness was about where it was last year based on my finish time at Way Too Cool 50K back in March. I knew I was capable of running a 4:20 in to Beals and my projected finish time was a 9:30.

The first 8 miles came and went my crew chief/fiancé Rachel was at the 8 mile marker and it was comforting to see her and know that she would be along the course the entire day helping me achieve my goal. I also saw a bunch of my friends who offered encouragement and shouts along the way which always brings a smile to my face and makes the daunting task of running 50 miles more enjoyable, as running 50 miles is enjoyable some would say no. But to me it is. It is about the challenge, setting the goals and achieving those goals throughout the day. Overcoming adversity, overcoming the lows and embracing the lows to slowly ride it back to a high. There were many lows this day as well as many highs. But that is to be expected in a journey of 50 miles.

I was right on pace at the 8 mile marker; my pace didn't feel force it felt comfortable and sustainable as this would be a crucial key for the day. I was fueling and hydrating along the way, but the day felt humid and I was sweating pretty good, even my hands were sweating. I had originally planned on carry a bottle for hydration, but a last minute change the night before I choose to wear my Salomon pack, which I think was a good idea as I was needing the extra water and I find when I wear my pack I actually fuel better as my hands are free.

The next spot I would see Rachel was at the fish hatchery, so I just counted down the miles. I was still on pace and feeling comfortable and was actually looking forward to the Hazel bluffs as my legs were getting tired of the flats and the asphalt. At the fish hatchery a quick wave and I was off. Again smiling on the inside. I hit the bluffs and went into a power hike, then as I neared the top I felt strong and started running up and over and around the corner and down I go to connect back with the parkway for a bit before hitting the fire road and some sweat single track. I arrived at main bar and filled my pack and grabbed a pb&j and I was off. I powered hiked for a bit stretching out my quads as they just weren't feeling right.

Here Christine from the fleet feel ultra training group had caught up to me and I locked on to her heals and she carried me to the single track. Her energy was just what I needed and I knew that I needed this pace. I just hoped she didn't mind me locking on. We hit the single track and just motored on. We arrived at the bluff and powered hiked up. Here I went by her but I knew she would be close. At the next bluff I just kept on running, it didn't feel forced it felt comfortable to be running the bluffs so I just went with it. With every step forward I knew I was nearing Negro bar and my ultimate destination of Beals point. I was mentally breaking the race and focused on running only aid station to aid station. By doing this my brain could remain focused on the small task instead of the bigger task.

I arrived at Negro bar and grabbed a pb&j and some coke and headed out on my way to Beals. During this next stretch I was slowly starting to feel my energy level dropping. I took in a gel and continued on. I hit the hill and ran some than transitioned into a power hike and ran again. I remained focused on my task. I took in another gel in hopes of getting some much needed calories in as I knew something was off, but I couldn't figure out. I hit the 26.2 mark in 4:13 and knew that I was almost there, just a short ways to go where I will see my crew and change my shoes and hit the trails. Ohh how I was looking forward to the trails.

I arrived in Beals in a time of 4:21, which was right on pace. Rachel quickly directed me to the chair and we went about our business of changing shoes, she made sure that I had my gels replenished and did everything that was on the list. Anthony arrived while I was changing shoes and his first words to me were "You look really pale. Are you eating? Drinking?" My reply, "Yes, I am eating and drinking. I just think I am overheating, I am really hot." He told me continue eating, and keep drinking as it was warmer than usual and then he asked me if I had used the bathroom. My reply "No, I haven't peed." He then said that I feel really dry and I need to keep pushing the fluids. He rubbed my quads down as I had told him my quads feel funny and next thing I knew I was up and off to the aid station. At the aid station I refilled my pack and took some coke and was off.

I hit the dirt fire road and tried to put something together, but I just couldn't find a rhythm. My pace had dramatically slowed down. I immediately started doing the calculation in my head and I was able to calm myself as I had given myself enough time to reach Rattlesnake. I didn't have to push but I needed to be consistent. I took in a gel, by this point my hands were swollen and I thought that maybe I had stopped processing my fuel. This has happened before, but from experience I knew that it would be ok, I just needing to battle through this low and not let this damage me.

I hit the single track and kept a descent pace; it wasn't anything stellar, but I was just glad that I was moving. I neared Granit bay aid station and there I took in some coke and used the bathroom. That is a good sign, it helped me out mentally I know that much. I was now on my way, but my feet were starting to really hurt. I was developing blisters, I could feel two blisters under two toes on my left foot and I could feel a blister under my big toe and between by big toe and on the sole on my right foot. This is not good.

Then everything came to a screeching halt. I wasn't running anymore, I was hardly shuffling. Every step I was in agony; each rock I stepped on during the meat grinder section was painful. All I could focus on were my feet and how much pain I was in. I was now stepping off the trail to let others pass, but I was still moving forward. Aghh the blisters. Again I did some calculation, it would be close, but I was still within my target goal, if only these blisters weren't causing me so much pain.

I stepped off the trail to let some other runners pass, but this time the runner didn't pass. It was my team mate Dan. He knew something was wrong with me. He asked me what was going on. I looked at him and said "I have blisters on both feet and it is so painful." He immediately went into fix it mode. He told me "I have super glue, we can take care of them, I have band aids, whatever you need we can do this." Then he said some magical words, "I have Tylenol or Motrin you want some?" "YES!! That would work, because I am afraid to take my shoes off and see the blisters." With that I took some Motrin and both Dan and I were off.

Dan stayed with me offering encouragement to run up the little rollers. It was amazing how supportive ultra runners are especially when another runner is in need. Thank you Dan! We made our way to Rattlesnake and I could feel the Motrin kick in right as I arrived. Here Rachel was waiting and Pam (trailmomma) was going pace me the last 10 miles. Rachel had everything ready just as I had instructed. She had my bottle with water ready to go. I immediately told her "empty the bottle and put coke in it I am keeping my pack. Does Pam have my gels? Ok I am having some major blister issues but the Motrin is kicking in." I had arrived into Rattlesnake about 15 minutes passed my schedule time, and I knew that historically it would take about 2 hours to finish the last 10. Hmm I wonder if I pushed it if I could make it.

10 more miles and I am 15 minutes back, which isn't that bad considering what I was dealing with. Pam and I were off; I took the lead as I like my pacer behind me unless I tell them to go in front. I pushed the pace up the hill and ran when I could. Slowly my energy level was coming back and the pain was calming down, but with each step I could still feel the pain shooting up through my feet. We hit Avery's Pond and both Pam and I chuckle, ah the memories with Avery's Pond.

Slowly we were gaining on other runners and then passing them. Pam was the voice of reason in my head. She would say things like "how about catching the guy in orange then the guy in white?" Now who am I to say no to a challenge? I would slowly bring them in and pass them. I think each time I passed someone Pam would call out another target I mean runner. With each step my pace quickened. I was on a mission. I wasn't going down I was going to finish strong.

We were running the rollers and with each roller my legs were feeling strong. I was mentally focused and clear, unlike when I came into Beals. I knew what I needed to do and Pam knew what needed to be done to encourage me. She pushed me, but not enough to break me. We were making good time. We hit the aid station in no time and I refilled the bottle with coke and we were off. Keep moving, keep moving, and don’t stop, is all I kept thinking. Again my legs were feeling strong on the rollers and I knew with each step forward I was nearing the end of this journey.

Pam kept me moving being the calm steady voice I needed, the voice of reason. We were almost to the base of the dam hill. I started to grab for a gel as when I hit the base I would take a gel in. We hit the base and I took the gel in. I transitioned into my power hike and I had the biggest smile on my face. I was in beast mode. Nothing was going to stop me, except my blisters. With this 3 mile climb all I could feel with each step was pain. But I wasn't going to stop.

I power hiked the step section and transitioned into a run. Pam matched me step for step. At last gas I had my bottle refilled with coke and kept on going. We hit the pavement and started running and then my bottle of coke exploded onto the runner I was passing. I immediately stopped as I couldn't believe that just happened and apologized. He said no worries; I will get you back with a big smile. I started running and Pam called out the land mark to aim for only I would aim beyond her goal and keep going. Than I would call out 'HIKE" and we power hike. Pam would get me running again. I was nearing the top and with each step I could feel my blisters getting bigger. Each step was painful, but I buckled down and let out a shout and ran.

I ran and I ran. Pam was right there. I hit the last little hill, hiked the last section and was off and running. I hit the grass and the final stretch. I had just enough for a final sprint. I crossed the finish line in 9:46:53. I was only 16 minutes passed my initial goal. But that is OK, as this journey was about overcoming and moving on.

Thank you to my amazing fiancée Rachel who supported me all day and throughout my training. Thank you for your understanding when I am off training and thank you for being apart of this journey. Thank you Pam (Trailmomma) for your amazing pacing duties during the last 10 miles. It was truly special to be running those trails with you once again. Thank you to my friends and family who have supported me and seen my life change over these past few years, and thank you Fleet Feet for your continuous support. 

Way Too Cool 50k Race Report 2012

It was a beautiful day on the trails of Cool for the Way Too Cool 50k. This would be my second time running and I was looking for a PR. My goal was somewhere between 5:15 and 5:30 finish. It was possible and the trial conditions were awesome, it was sunny, the trail was going to be fast, the creek crossing were low, and I was ready.

At the start I lined up with my good friend Dustin who was running his second 50k, but first trail 50k. He is a fast runner so I knew deep down that when he said he would stick with me for a bit I knew it was only going to be for a mile or two. It was maybe 1.5 miles before he pulled ahead. I was feeling good at the start, calm, I had my fueling plan, and I was ready for this. The first few miles were a bit fast but that is to be expected and I slowly found a comfortable pace, well not really. But I well get there.

The first mile or so is on the pavement and I set a quick pace, once I arrived on the single track my pace slowed down a bit but that was to be expected. I arrived at the first creek crossing and saw a huge line of runners wanting to walk across on the rocks and not get their feet wet. To me I thought that was a waste of time. The water wasn't that high and the worst that was going to happen was my shoes would get wet, but I would be moving forward. I followed the same path Dustin took as he crossed a few seconds ahead of me. Thanks Dustin! Next was a climb, I ran most of it but hiked the last little bit and than quickly transitioned into a run. I steeped in line behind some guys who were setting a nice pace and I just relaxed and went with it. At the mile 4ish mark I took in my first gel knowing that fueling was going to be key today along with salt and water.

During this loop I noticed that my legs felt sluggish and really heavy. The turnover wasn't there and it felt like I was lifting a ton of bricks with each step. This could be a long a day if this kept up. Slowly my friends from the Fleet Feet Training group passed me. They looked strong each and every one of them and I thought to myself I will never see them again. But how wrong I was, as I saw and passed them all except two. Soon I arrived at the first aid station at mile 8, and I grabbed a quarter of PB&J and took off. I was quick through the aid station. I headed back out and I knew that the next few miles was pretty much downhill as I make my way to Lower Quarry Road.

The downhill section I knew I could tear it up, but that was if my legs responded. It seemed my legs would respond sometimes or when they wanted. But luckily they responded and I slowly picked up speed and passed others on the trail. I was feeling good, I was in my element and I was focused. I arrived at the highway crossing and made my way across and headed down to the aid station. At the aid station I knew I would need some water so I had my pack ready to be refilled and grabbed a quarter of PB&J and was out of there.

Next up was the fire road of Quarry road. This section is very runnable, but my legs wouldn't work. I tried to put something together but my pace feel off. Not a good feeling, but I knew I had to deal with it. I quickly took in a gel and some salt and started to drink more water. I ended up taking it easy on the hills, running parts of them and then hiking the rest. This of course made me feel defeated and I slowly saw my goals for the day escape me. I know there is still plenty of racing left but at the moment it didn't feel that way. Not only was I mentally defeated but slowly more of my friends started to pace me looking really good. Two of my team mates on the Fleet Feet Ultra Racing Team caught up to me. Dan, spent some time with me trying to get me refocused. We ran side by side, step by step. This little bit of company was what I needed. It may not seem like much but that started getting the juices flowing again and I could feel my running edge come back. Slowly both my team mates carried on with their own races, but those few minutes with them was great.

Slowly things started to fall back in place. I was running once again, but I knew I had a few more major climbs to tackle and the beast of them all goat hill, but that wasn't for a bit. I was making my way to ALT aid station and was back on the single track. I was just running my pace and focused on fueling and moving forward. The climbs I tackled as best I could, power hiking when I needed to and than transitioning back into a run after the climb. Parts of this section is very runnable and I attempted to take advantage of it when I could. I mustered up a strong pace and kept myself focused on the task at hand.

Soon though the wheels started to fall off and I slowly found myself hiking, no walking up the hills. This climb just kept going, I was making my way to third gate and I was doing the math in my head and I knew that once I rounded the corner it would be about 2-3 miles before the aid station, where once there I was going to enjoy some coke. Sugar, I needed sugar for the immediate energy spike my body was looking for. Now, I had been fueling and taking salt and drinking water, but my body just wasn't processing it fast enough or maybe I needed more fuel. All I knew is I needed some sugar. As I was making my way up I could hear cow bells and people cheering and than I heard Daisy and Kuni.

I yelled up to them and they start cheering me and than I heard Daisy ask me if I needed some candy? Yes, I replied, but I think all I could do was nod my head yes. Out of her pocket she pulls out some hard candy. I grabbed the peppermint flavor and pop it in my mouth. I don't think I even had the energy to say thank you, but that candy tasted very good and was just what I needed. As I rounded the corner I hear Daisy yell "You look good girl!" She shouted that a few times to me and it slowly dug it's way into my brain. Than she shouted "See you at the finish!" With that I pointed back down the hill at them knowing that I was going to finish this thing looking strong.

I have been sucking on this hard candy now for a few minutes when I hooked up with a pair of ladies from the Fleet Feet Training Group. I was sandwich in between them holding on a nice steady clip as the lady in front pulled me and the lady behind me kept pushing me. I don't think they knew but they were slowly giving me my running legs back and the little bit of self confidence I needed. As the pace quickened I spit my candy out and held on for all it was worth.

As much as I holding on though the pace quickened again and I slowly fell off the back. But this time it didn't discourage me it motivated me. Another thing that motivated me was I had 11 miles to the finish. When I saw that it was like a switch went off in my head and I began to race. My focus was back, I zeroed in my next goal....the runner in front of me and then the runner in front of them. I was moving. It was the most amazing feeling, I almost felt slightly detached from my body. I was able to block out everything else that was going on, I was numb and I was racing.

As I came into ALT aid station I refilled my pack, inhaled 2 cokes, thanked the ladies who pulled me back from the dead and was gone in a blink of an eye. It was on now. I was on a mission, I tore out of there like my pants were on fire. My legs were firing on all cylinders and I speed off down the trail. I already had my next goal in mind and as I neared my goal I recognized my goal. It was Jim. As Jim heard me barrelling down the trail he asked if I wanted by and of course I replied yes. As I passed him I told him to hook on. I think he tried but I was moving with a vengeance. Nothing was going to stop me. I knew that this section of trail was supper runnable and I was flying, holding 9:20 to 9:30 minutes per mile.

I had some time to make up, but I also knew I had to be smart about it. I needed to stay focused on fueling, drinking and salt. I couldn't make a mistake. Soon I approached 2 runners and I hooked up with them. In the lead was Brian, from the Fleet Feet Training Group. I ran with them for a bit just to recover and than Brian stepped off the trail and the guy in front of me was in charge of setting the pace. I yelled to Brian, "Hook on Brian, you are doing great." I didn't want him to slow down and sometimes it is easier to run with someone else. But he needed to walk as he was recovering from a few weeks of being sick and not being able to run.

I continued on not wanting to lose any ground. The guy in front of me was going OK, he was setting a nice pace but I noticed on the small rollers he was slowing down a lot. I offered some encouragement, on the next roller as we approached I said "You are doing great, keep pushing, push, push, push.!" We crested the small roller and I noticed that his pace was slowing down so I asked if I could get by and he slid off to the left and I scooted around him. I saw not to far in front of me another set of runners and I hooked up with them. They were also setting a nice pace. In fact it was a good pace. I also recognized these runners as these two had passed me as I was making my way to third gate. Hmm how about that I was know making up some serious ground.

We were moving nicely over the rollers and I offered some encouragement to them as well. I was giving back what others had given to me that day. Offering encouragement along the way. Slowly though their pace also slowed down and I went around them. After passing them I hooked up with the next group of runners a group of 4 and they also were setting a good pace. Together we moved over the little rollers and held a steady quick pace. We went by my teammate Bill, who had stepped off the trail for second and I yelled his name "Bill Carr" for all to hear. I didn't know if he recognized me but I wanted him to know I was there and that maybe we could work together a bit.

Slowly our group of 4 caught up to a even bigger train. This time though the pace came to a screeching snail pace. The train was big about 12-15 of us and no one was making a move nor was anyone stepping over to let others pace. About third from the front I saw my teammate Dan. I also noticed that the little rollers caused the entire train to bunch up. The ladies leading the group were walking them. A couple of times I almost ran into the guys in front of me because it was so unexpected. I was also getting frustrated, as I knew Goat Hill was quickly approaching and this section of trail was runnable.

As this run/walk big train moved on I heard Bill say "Hey, Melisa do you want by?" or something to that matter. I was feeling really good, I wanted by and I yelled "YES!!!" Than Bill tried to get the lead runners who were walking to step over so we could pace. Still no one was making a move. I finally yelled to up to Dan, "DAN!!!! I need you take the lead." With some more words from both Bill and I the train slowly let us by. The four guys let us pass, than we were able to pass the ladies. Dan now had the lead followed by myself and Bill. And with that our race and pace quickly increased. Dan was amazed at how I had come from behind.

The three of us Fleet Feet Ultra Racing Teammates worked together, tackling the next few miles to Goat Hill. We were crushing it, quickly passing anyone in front of us. Dan was setting the pace and I just held on for dear life, knowing that Bill was right behind me and I didn't want to let up. I was pushing myself harder with each step, harder with each hill. My mind was screaming walk, but my legs kept on running. Dan was pushing the pace, Bill was pushing me. Team work at it's finest I do believe.

We soon crossed the bridge and I knew I needed to fuel. I took in a gel and a salt tab. All the while Dan was yelling at me to keep running. We were on the fire road that lead us to Goat hill. It was steep, but not as steep as Goat hill. Dan kept shouting, now run to the tree, now the ribbon. He broke that fire road into runnable sections for me and all I did was put my head down and run not thinking twice about it.

Goat hill was next. This hill is a beast. Dan had me take the lead and I took off power hiking with Bill and Dan right behind me. I could feel Bill, he was a animal on the climb. He passed me and I just followed him. We hit the little "flat" spot and I saw Bill run. Dan said "now try and muster something here." Or something like that. All I know is he wanted me to run, but I was hurting really bad. I was having trouble catching my breath, my legs were burning. I let out a yell and next thing I knew I was running with Dan right by my side. I transitioned into a power hike and I kept hearing Dan, he said he wasn't going to leave my side we would do this together. He kept me motivated. Things started to get a little fuzzy and I started to weave on the trail. I felt Dan grab my pack and keep me moving in a straight line. I couldn't walk straight, I was all over the trail. We were almost to the top. I really just wanted this to be over. I was hurting. Only a little bit further I heard Dan say. Can you hear the people, can you hear the cow bells? Yes, I could hear them but I couldn't find the energy to respond. I crested the top of Goat Hill with Dan right there.

I walked into the aid station, grabbed two coke and drank the first one, as the second one went down everything came back up. So fast I didn't have time to step away from the table. I looked to my left at the volunteer and said "I am so sorry, I didn't mean to do that, so sorry." I finished off the little bit of coke Dan was trying to get me to get moving, he wanted me out of the aid station. He knew that a PR was still doable. I saw Bill leave and I followed, but first the volunteers soaked me.

We had 5ish miles to go. So close, I could almost feel it. At this point everything is like a snap shot, I still had the feeling of being detached and it is a very interesting feeling. I was numb, I had chills but I was also running. I was right behind Bill with Dan behind me. I stepped were Bill stepped. At this point I can form a thought, but I can't form the sentence to phrase that thought. I had been pushing it hard, harder than I have pushed before. Bill would yell out obstacles and I would point so Dan would know. Then Bill had to step off and I was in the lead. I slowed the pace down a bit so Bill could catch back up when he was finished but I never saw Bill. Bill you were a huge instrument that day and a motivator like no other.

It was just me and Dan. Dan kept pushing the pace and I did what I could to keep up. We were tearing up the descents and I did my best at keeping a steady pace on the climbs. I was slowing down, but I was still moving forward. Dan was true to his word and never left my side even though he was feeling stronger and faster. He stayed with me offering encouragement and motivation with each step. To this day I can still hear his voice in my head. He did everything he could to get me to run the climbs, some I did and some of them I hiked and some I ran hiked. He kept giving me small goals, the goal was 49 crossing aid station. I could hear the aid station and my emotions almost got the best of me as I was near tears just thinking that I only had 1.5 miles to go. Dan ran ahead and had my coke ready for me when I arrived. I was focused on one thing finishing.

I was able to keep both the cokes down, but as I started the last climb the wave of nausea came flooding over me. I got sick a little but kept on moving. Nothing was going to stop me. Again on this climb Dan gave me goals, run to the tree, only this time I ran past the tree. Than I ran past the rock. Only one more small climb and victory was near. We crested the climb and I could hear the finish line. I could see it. I was almost there. My pace quickened, I was going to finish strong. Almost there, I just need to round the corner and than the home stretch. As I rounded the corner I saw Daisy and Kuni and pointed at them I also saw the time clock. I was going to PR, my pace quickened even faster. Nothing was going to stop me. We crossed in 5:38 a new PR for me by 21 minutes. Dan and I crossed the finish line next to each other just like he promised.

This was a interesting day with many lows and highs. My friends on the trail helped me out so much and my teammates pushed me to stay strong. Dan and Bill were major factors in my PR today, along with Daisy and Kuni. I might have come a little shy of my original goal, but a PR is a PR is a PR any day.

I learned that I have more to give even when things are in the lowest of places. It is never over, just a temporary set back. Always keep pushing forward and never give up. I wanted to give up many times out there but the tides turned for me. I pushed even when I thought I had nothing left.

Thank you to my friends and family for believing in me. Thank you to Fleet Feet Sports for believing in me and thank you to my teammates.Thank you Lily for the great massage after and for always getting me race ready! Thank you Anthony for helping me in my training and for setting the goals that I eventualy set for myself. You believe in me and I believe in myself.

A quick 14

This weekend has been very full for me which is rare for me. It has been all about the family and if I had time squeezing a run in, which I did manage early Saturday morning. Saturday I was ready to run by 0 dark 30. It was 7 am when I started and I was on a time frame. I had only a few hours to get my run in as I was needed elsewhere.

Off I went starting from Cavitt. I was a Trail Pigeon on a mission. My goal I was aiming for was 14 miles. I knew I could get that kind of mileage in in about 2 hours and 20 minutes. I really needed at least an 18 miler, but I just didn't have the time and I couldn't risk not getting back in on time. Plus I had just run 14 miles from Auburn to Cool and back on Thursday and I didn't know how my legs were going to feel.

My legs during this run were feeling great. I wasn't tight and my feet were light on the trail. It felt awesome to be running the pace I was running. I was pushing it on the way out. I knew I could hit my turn around in about 1 hour and 10 minutes, but I would have to move. I was running the hills, I was bouncing off the rocks, I was having fun and running with a smile on my face. I was focused on my task and kept moving. I was feeling so good at the turnaround that I really wanted to go for more mileage, but I knew better.

At the turnaround I took in a GU and 2 salts as the day was warming up and it was getting pretty humid out. I was off, heading back to my car and I was still running most of the ups and really pushing it on the flats. The return was awesome because I ran into a few running groups and that really energized me. I was given one group high fives as they ran past.

I also ran into the Fleet Feel Ultra Training Group, who were out running a training run. I think they logged 18-19 miles that day. It was great to see them because I stopped and talked to a few of my friends I hadn't seen in awhile and I am sure you could hear me calling out "HEY!!!! HEY!!!!" as a big train of them ran past. They were looking good and I was feeling really good. My legs felt awesome, my fueling on this run seemed to be spot on and I was still having fun even though I had just run through the grinder. In fact it wasn't so much of a grind this day as just a small obstacle to overcome.

As I pushed myself on the fire road all I could think about was how fast I ran that fire road during the Sierra Nevada 50 Miler Endurance run. Looking back on that day I always tell myself anything is possible if I just believe. I believe that the mind is a powerful tool.

I arrived back at the car in total time 2:20. Not bad for a quick 14 on the muddy trails. It was a great run, one that I hope to repeat in the future. I was focused, my mind was clear, my legs were responding and I was pushing myself. I can't wait to hit the trails again!

I believe do you?

Lil Man and Fleet Feet

Today after work was Meme time with Lil Man. I had the honor of picking him up from preschool. Once I arrived and rounded the corner he was already running to me and jumping into my arms. It was almost as if he knew it was me. He gave me the biggest hug and he couldn’t wait for our special day to begin.

Our first stop of course was Fleet Feet. We wanted to check out the new renovations that have been taking place. Let me tell you the store looks awesome. It is a totally different store visually stunning. If you haven’t checked it out you need to head over there, it looks awesome.

This is where all the cool kids put their Fleet Feet Stickers

His collection

After the tour of the new and improved Fleet Feet Fair Oaks store both Lil man and chit chatted with the staff, who have become very fond of Lil Man. When he walks in everyone says hi to him and he enjoys it. He gets a huge smile on his face and he is even getting braver in the store. This time around I didn’t have to go to Captain Kirk’s office with him he went all by himself. He even explored the back room as he was looking for the exercise balls he uses to do his arm exercises.

During today’s visit there was almost a minor situation as in my shoes that were ordered last week might have been sold. I knew that I couldn’t take 1 more week in the shoes I was in, but Captain Kirk came to the rescue and found them in the back room. Thank You Captain Kirk, I almost had to buy the shoes with pink on them.  Lil Man of course was paying really close attention to the conversation and had no problem telling Captain Kirk “you messed up Meme’s shoes” and once Captain Kirk told Lil Man he fixed everything Lil Man said “You fixed everything!” In the long run I have my shoes, Lil Man challenged Captain Kirk, and Captain Kirk saved the day!

Before we left Lil Man was given a present.

Bringing the present home

Getting ready to unwrap the present

If you remember he is in charge of store operations, basically it is his job to inspect the store for any outstanding violations i.e.; the door mat needs to be outside, shoes in the back room need to be put away, ECT…you know things everyone notices. (Not really everyone) Today since there is a new door mat he was allowed to take the old door mat home. But before we could bring home he needed to vacuum it. Then it was rolled up and placed in the back of my car. What a special day, I mean it is not every day that you get an awesome Fleet Feet door mat. Do you have one?

Surprise!

Once we arrived home we had to put the mat in its place and what better place then to designate a spot in the garage as his parking space for his buzz light-year bike.

Parking his bike

Yup looks good Meme

 After that it was time to get ready for swim lessons.

"Meme I am ready"

Off to swim lessons we go:

-Swim suit on-check

- sunglasses-check

-chocolate milk-check

-book for car ride-check.

He was set. He did awesome at swim lessons, his 15 minute lesson actually ended up being 25 minutes. He showed me how he could blow bubbles, hold his breath, roll over, swim arm over arm splashing in the water. He swam the entire length of the pool rolling over on his back to catch his breath. Pretty impressive for a three year old.

Keeping entertained

All in all it was a great day with Lil Man. He had exceptional listening skills today and was a little gentleman. I always enjoy my special time with him and today was really special.

This is where I am sure Traildog is spending his time while I am away

Pool is open and Fun at Fleet Feet

Late last week my brother's pool was official opened for the summer, or I should say for the next few weeks since he and his wife will be moving to DC at the end of June. What better way to kick off summer then with a pool party.

Lil Man is already to go!

Have to test the water first

Mouse and Jack head on in, they dont' know what Lil Man is waiting for. Did I forget to mention it was a pool party for the dogs too. It kind of looks like Jack is giving Mouse a nudge!

And they are off! Mouse as you can tell by the splashes is very graceful in the water.

Max the "oldest" is like a U boat in the water. Very slow but a pup at heart.

Go Jack nice jump!

Ohh how cute, look how calm Mouse is

The dogs had a blast celebrating the opening day of the pool

Not only was the pool open, but Lil Man and I made a trip to the Roseville Fleet Feet Store. They had the Brooks bus of Curiosity there and some awesome prizes and treats. 

Getting his first sweet, and he won a t-shirt!

Enjoying the cookie!

Captain Kirk and Wonder Woman with Lil Man! How Cute are they?

Taking a look at the awesome bus, and just a small foot note but the balloon never made it home. It got out of the car while I was putting everything away. Lil Man was quick to tell me that I needed to hold on to the string tightly and not let go. Sorry Lil Man :(

But his all time favorite activity was being the Popcorn Master and watching the popcorn pop.

We had a great time enjoying the bus and all it's wonders it had to show us. Lil Man's favorite part was the bus! He is in fact wearing the t-shirt he won now! Thank you Fleet Feet for hosting such a great event. Lil Man is still talking about it.