Salmon Falls 50K Race Report 2015

This past Saturday was the first race for me in 2015. The Salmon Falls 50k, put on by race director Anthony Brantley. The start of the race was at Magnolia parking area. From there we climb to enjoy some beautiful views of Cronan Ranch as we make our way to the South Fork of The American River. From there we climb and make our descent on Red Dragon which offers views of Salmon Falls. From here we make our way onto the Sweet Water Trail system which is a single rolling track as we continue on to the Browns Ravine Marina and finally our destination at Folsom Point. A beautiful course with a rich history.

 I had some personal goals going into this race, but ultimately my long term goal was to not be destroyed at the end so that I could resume my training. This was a training run for me, but a training run where I wanted to push a bit if I could and see how the body responded. Going into Saturday, I wasn't nervous. It was just another run for me. I didn't sleep that much the night prior as having a newborn in the house doesn't allow for sleep.

Race Day

Race day here. I met up with Trailmomma and our friend drove us to the starting line. Once at the starting line, we had no clue what the weather was going to do. All week I had been watching the weather reports, one day it called for rain, another day thunder showers, and another possible showers. I didn't really know what to wear, so I brought a few extra layers just in case the skies opened up, but didn't need them as it felt like it would be warm day.

At the starting line at Magnolia parking lot I could feel the energy. There were about 180 or so racers. Anthony gave us a pre race briefing, basically saying if you get lost it is your own fault as the course is well marked. And just like that we were off and running. I was warned by many people to take it easy during the first half of the course. If not I could pay for it during the second half. I kept that in mind as I tried to find a good position on the fire road. Soon we hit the creek crossing and started our first climb of the day. I ran some and hiked most of it keeping a steady leg turn over. Trailmomma was right in front of me and looking strong. She had been training hard for this race and I could tell during our long runs how much power she had developed and many runners told me "She is like a billy goat going up that hill." I heard this a lot during the race from other races.

Of course what goes up must go down, we hit the first descent and many runners opened it up. I resisted the urge to fly down knowing we had a long ways to go. It was too early in the day to destroy the legs so I let others fly past me. It was here that I paused for a second and looked around at the beauty of this course and area. It was amazing how lush and green everything was. Soon I was at the base of the hill and slowly starting to climb again. This would be a constant theme throughout the race, up and down up and down. Again Trailmomma took off like a billy goat. I couldn't keep up with her. As we neared the top and started the long descent to our first aid station Trailmomma said that she needed to use the restroom. I told her to run ahead and I will meet her at the aid station. She took off. She was gone. All I saw was a small speck in the distance. I made my way to the aid station and once there noticed just how far the restroom was and looked down the trail to see Traillmomma high tailing it back to the aid station. She explained to me that it was just too far and she would wait.

I chuckled and we were off to the longest climb of the day Pedro Hill. I have climbed Pedro Hill, and it is a nice steady climb, I also took in some calories as I had only garbed a handful of chips at the aid station. My legs never felt loaded and I kept a steady turnover, even running some of the hill with Trailmomma. From here I pretty much have run the course and knew what to expect in the coming miles. I hit the top of Pedro Hill and Trailmomma and I started the descent. Here I backed off a bit and Trailmomma gained a nice lead on me. I knew that she wanted to push herself, so when she pushed here I let her go. I wasn't ready to push the pace.

Soon enough Trailmomma and I reconnected, I could tell she was focused. She wasn't talking much and I was OK with that. We would chit chat a bit here and there but overall not much. I was feeling pretty good and as we neared aid station #2, I heard "Their is the new momma." Hearing that brought a huge  smile to my face. All day long I heard how cute my son was, which just brightened my day and made me smile ear to ear. I thanked Paul with a hug and enjoyed some more chips as Trailmomma and I made our way to aid station #3, where I knew my son and wife would be waiting. That was my driving force, that was my motivation all day.

During this stretch, Trailmomma really opened it up and started to push hard. I couldn't keep up with her. I power hiked as hard as I could but she kept gaining ground on me. She had really perfected her power hike and all her hard work in training was paying off. I settled back and focused. I focused on keeping a nice and steady pace, power hiking when I thought best and running where needed. Here I started to feel a bit off and decided I should take in a few calories. I continued on power hiking and running through the ups and downs and smooth rolling single track, and soon I had arrived at Red Dragon.

Red Dragon is gnarly descent. It twist and turns just as a dragon does. It has super sharp turns and feels like it goes on forever. On the descent I had the urge to use the bathroom, only there wasn't anywhere to step off of the trail. I would have to wait until I reached Salmon Falls aid station. The descent was hard on me and my stomach. I slowly made my way down and kept thinking "Oh I hope I make it." It was going to be close. Soon I reached the bottom and crossed the bridge and saw Trailmomm's family who cheered me on and I made my way to the aid station.

As I popped out of the single track trail and into the parking lot I quickly made my way to the restroom. I had to go and go I did. I felt so much better after that pit stop. A weight had been lifted per say. Once this duty was completed I made my way to my family who was waiting for me with a big orange sign and of course my banana. My wife and son were there and I had arrived right on time. I took a quick photo with my son, kissed my wife and Trailmomma and I were on our way.

13 miles completed and I was feeling pretty good. We crossed the bridge and made our way up the road chit chatting and enjoying the day together. As we hit the single track of the Sweet Water Trail System Trailmomma took off and I couldn't keep up. I was feeling a bit low on energy and my legs weren't responding. I knew I had to take care of myself so I took in a gel. Not long, I started to feel a bit better. This single track trail is super runnable and I was frustrated at myself for messing up my fueling. But once my fuel kicked in and I started to make up some ground.

Long day crewing for Mom!

I was nearing the river/stream crossing and I could see Trailmomma just across the way. She was at least 7-10 minutes up on me. I followed the billion course markers to the stream/river crossing and once across I heard "Pigeon!!!" I looked back and was surprised to see Trailmomma. I shouted to her "Did you get lost???" her face told the story. She looked like a deer in headlights and she explained to me that she was following the runner in front of her and missed the crossing. She settled in behind me and I lead us up the hill. I asked if she wanted by but she said "I just need some time to recover is all." We plugged along and soon enough Trailmomma took the lead and was off once again. We made our way into the aid station and had another surprise, Captain Kirk and Wonder Woman with their little boy were there cheering on the runners. They told us we looked strong and I thanked them. I then focused my attention on fuel, as I needed some. I guzzled down some Pepsi, grabbed 2 girl scout cookies and a handful of peanut butter pretzels and took off after Trailmomma who had already started the climb.

While climbing I finished my snack and could feel the Pepsi kicking in and quickly caught up to Trailmomma. I was feeling better then when I arrived at the aid station as I do believe by now I was behind on my calories. A mistake I know. Together we were making our way to New York Creek Crossing. The trail is rolling along and I could tell from Trailmomma's form that she was feeling strong.

This stretch we focused and talked about our family and how exciting it was to see them, when out of nowhere I see her family. Vans and her kids had made their way down to New York Creek Crossing and had surprised us. That was an exciting moment and really boosted my spirits and Trailmomma's as well. In fact I think this gave her what she needed. After seeing them she was a different runner and I couldn't keep up with her. I was able to keep her in my sights. We were working together during this stretch, at one point I would be in the lead pulling us along and then Trailmomma would take the lead and pull us. I couldn't wait to see the next aid station as I wanted some more coke.

We arrived at the aid station and down 2 cokes, look over at Trailmomma and see the best thing ever. Payday's. She is enjoying a payday. I quickly scan the table and find them. I grab 2 look at trailmomma and we both start to hit the trail again, while others stuck around. We started hiking and finished up our snack. We had put some distance on the runners at the aid station, but I could hear them coming. We picked the pace up a bit and started to cruise. It was during this stretch that Trailmomma asked me how many more aid stations. I responded very quickly and assured her we had 2 more aid stations. She didn't believe me, but also didn't question me. Here I am thinking we have 9 more miles to go. 9 miles.

We cruised along, running more and more of the rollers. I was on a mission and pushed myself to remain steady but run more of the rollers. Trailmomma took the lead and out of nowhere she had this sudden burst of energy. She was gone, I couldn't respond. I focused on a nice and steady turnover, run that roller, keep going. Push, push, push. I could see the aid station and as I neared it it was Fleet Feet. I arrived to some loud cheering gave Dan a hug and guzzeled some coke. I quickly pointed to the sign on the table and said to Trailmomma, "See 3.47 to the next aid." 6 more miles is what I am thinking. She quickly says "3.47 to THE FINISH!" I respond "No, 3.47 to next aid." Then Debbie and Annabelle who were both voluntering look at me and say "No, you have 3.47 to the Finish." I and dumbfounded, really. I look at Debbie and quickly say can you take my pretzles, I can get by on coke them. She laughs and does. I guzzle some more coke and Trailmomma and I are both off. Thank you girls for the help.

3.47 sounded so much better then 6 miles to go. I apologized to Trailmomma. I had no clue where I thought we had 2 more aid stations, I guess my math didn't add up. This last stretch we have both been on numerous times. My legs were tired and I was ready to be done. 3.47 we got this is what I kept thinking. Trailmomma took the lead and I just tucked in behind her knowing that with each step forward was another step closer to the finish. I could see the levee. As we descended down to the levee I shout out "hey, that's Tigger T." Trailmomma's friend had come out and surprised us by being on the levee. We quickly gave hugs and said thanks for being there and that we would see her at the finish. A great surprise.

The levee never ended. I could see the finish line and I could hear the finish line. So instead of focusing on the finish line, I focused on the runner ahead of me. Our pace quickened but it felt like we were not making any progress. We were gaining on the runner and slowly passed him. Soon we made that right turn on to the single track trail that would take us to the finish line. Trailmomma got a burst of energy and I knew she had a strong kick. I couldn't let her get to far ahead of me, but I also couldn't kick as early as her. I had to time it just right. She kicked and I kicked a little, I was gaining. I can catch her, I kicked a bit more, I was so close. I could hear Anthony saying "Look, we have Trailmomma and Pigeon, training partners coming into the finish line." So close I was to her. She crossed the first mat and it looked like she slowed down a bit, I kicked only finaly time, I pushed as hard as I could gaining, when I hear Anthony "Oh no, Pigeon is catching you." and trailmomma pushes hard to the finish line. She crosses one second in front me. I almost caught her. What a finish. When we hit the homestretch we put on a strong finish. We were both smiling from ear to ear and laughing a bit about the strong finish. Way to get it done!

Finished!!! Laughing, just as it should be

We finished, we both had some obstacles to overcome through out the day but in the end we finished with a smile on our face and both our families there to see it. As my son get's older I hope I am an inspiration to him and that he will see that he can achieve anything he put's his mind too. I also hope he knows that he is my motivation and that I love him and my wife very much.

Thank you to everyone along the course who cheered and said encouraging words to me. Thank you to my wife and son, who put up with my training and for encouraging me to sign up for this race. It was a great day made even better because I was able to spend the day doing something I love with people I love. Until next time, Run Happy as trailmomma would say!

Go Here To Read About Trailmomma's experience and for pictures!!

A Different Look at the Damn Hill

This week was my first week back at work, after a nice week and a half long vacation. I enjoyed doing nothing, sleeping in (till 6), and not being on a timeframe or a routine. Back at work, I welcomed my morning routine but I didn’t welcome the stress that came to being back. It is always nice to get away, but even harder to go back.

This week my runs have been scattered, I haven’t had too much motivation to run especially since it has been really warm here and that always makes it hard to get any sort of run in, plus what am I training for? Nothing, I don’t have a race lined up. But I did manage to get a small 4 miler in the heat on Tuesday and then on Thursday I did 6 miles in the morning as it was my day off with little Toby. He enjoyed the distance and was pretty much content just sleeping the rest of the day away.  Friday I hit the parkway for a very warm 4 miler, but my body actually felt pretty good out there. Must be all the heat training I do; no air conditioner in my car as it went out back in June.

This morning I headed up to Cool with Anthony who is the RD for a new race in town, That Damn Run. If you haven’t signed up I suggest you do as this course is on trails that are hardly ever used plus the nice damn hill which we ran today in his free training runs he has been putting on!

We arrived in Cool and headed out with orange ribbon to mark the 7 (I think) mile course. We headed out on the paved road and then made a right turn onto a dirt fire road which would start our 3 mile descent. This descent is bit technically because there really isn’t a good line to follow and it is a bit technical with loose rocks that could easily roll ones ankle right, Trailmomma? But the fire road is wide enough that there won’t be any worries about not being able to pass. It is a real quad buster but I didn’t notice it while running down, but I am sure tomorrow my quads will be feeling it as I ran it twice!

After the descent it is level for a bit before the climb up begins. This climb kind of reminds me of Tahoe, with the constant switch backs and how at the beginning it is steep but as I kept climbing it levels out and is run able, which of course I ran. Then it get’s rather steep again, but it is run able. As I climbed, it was nice to look down and see where I had come from and the view was really gorgeous!

As the climb continued and arrived at the pavement I was surprised that the climbing wasn’t done. Now it had been a few months since the last time I have been on this course and I had forgotten that once I arrived at the pavement it continues to climb. But soon enough it rolls nicely.
This was only a small portion of the half marathon, but a really great damn hill to see. I think it is always easier on my mind if I see the toughest part of a course before the actual event.

Like I said the first time I went out I was helping mark and the second time I headed out I was just enjoying the trail with trailmomma. I always enjoy running with her, because she is always positive, always smiling and no matter what it automatically puts any one in a good positive mode or even able to temporarily forget about some nagging pain; like the one I was having. I had to walk some of the descent and she was nice enough to slow down until I was able to run again. It is weird how the pain comes and goes but when it comes, it comes in waves and is hard to manage/handle. I just keep telling myself when it happens “Just keep running; just keep running, running, running!”

We only walked a short bit of the descent and quickly got under way. We hit the climb and I transitioned into a power hike and enjoyed making my way up, knowing where I could run and where I needed to keep it mellow. The second time my legs felt stronger or more powerful as the first time they were loaded pretty quickly. We made our way to paved road and it is here that I finally gave in and asked if she had any Tylenol, which she did!!! Thank you Trailmomma.
We enjoyed run walking it in to where we parked. It was great to catch up and it was even greater that so many runners showed up, at least 25 I think!

All in all even with the pain it was a great day on the trails, well I should say that any day on the trails is a great day, and better yet any day running with friends is great. Can’t wait for the next training run, which I hear will be the entire half course!  

Tahoe Rim Trail 50 Mile Race Report 2012

A Glimpse of Heaven and a Taste of Hell

I was less than 3/4 of a mile from the finish. I was running on fumes and just keeping it together; when I see this massive hill. Maybe not massive but a tiny roller. Anthony softly tells me "You can hike this hill." I reply "please, thank you" as I transitioned into my hike I slowly feel my lungs closing, I couldn't get any air, I was wheezing which was causing me to hyperventilate, but I was still moving forward. Nothing is going to stop me; except the fact that I couldn't breath. I hear Anthony say to drink some water, I take a sip some how and keep hiking. I am so close to the finish, just keep it together I tell myself, keep it together, keep moving what every I do keep moving as I am wheezing and unable to breath........

The Tahoe Rim Trail 50 miler has been secretly been on my bucket list. I didn't tell anyone that deep down I wanted to run it, but I also knew that it would take some serious training and commitment like no other. I did just that, I changed my training program up, I even changed my diet and as the weeks and months went by I could feel a difference in my body, I felt stronger! I knew that my commitment had been there now it was all going to be tested and tested it was both physically and mentally that day.

The start of the race at Spooner Lake State Park, is at 7,000 feet, I would be running to the highest point of the course just below the 9,214 foot Snow Valley Peak. The low point on the course is at the bottom of the Red House Loop or other wise known as A Taste of Hell at approximately 6800 feet with a very substantial climb near the end.

The Race:

On my way to Marlette Lake which by the way is a 1,500 elevation gain over roughly 4 miles I had decided that I would take this very conservatively. I actually had no choice in the matter as there was a huge traffic jam just getting onto the single track. I took this in stride and just went with it. I am pretty sure the traffic jam helped me remain calm and steady. My hike was very comfortable, in fact I didn't notice any heaviness in my legs like I had in years past. I guess all my hill training had paid off. On the small descent I fly down it, my legs enjoyed it and it allowed me to open them up. After the small descent there is another climb. I was at the base of Marlette Lake (7823 feet) and climbed on dirt roads to the Hobart Road aid station at 8120 feet.

I power hiked the fire road and continued to tell myself to stay relaxed and comfortable. This positive reinforcement went a long ways at it reminded me to conserve. I arrived a Hobart and quickly grabbed a PB&J square and was in and out within seconds. I only slowed down to grab the square. I continued my power hike up to a spectacular view of the lake. What a sight it was, but I didn't spend long looking as I was on a mission. I was now making my way to Tunnel Creek aid station where my crew would be waiting for me. I was feeling really good, lots of energy, I was mentally focused and on point with my nutrition (or so I thought) and slowly reaching my small attainable goals. I didn't look at the big picture of having to run 50 miles but rather shorter attainable goals, basically aid station to aid station.

On my descent into Tunnel I let the trail take me. Not pushing the pace but allowing the trail to tell me what to run. I was listening to my body. I arrived at Tunnel in a little over 2 hours and 40 minutes give or take. I was on schedule. My crew Anthony and Trailmomma quickly went to work, asking me questions trying to decide what I needed. Apparently I wasn't speaking much which caused some concern for them. I thought I was speaking though. They had my bottle ready of hammer perpetuem and I switched out, Anthony refilled my pack while Trailmomma made sure I had everything I needed. I needed to get the rocks out of my shoes and after doing that I downed two gels as I felt a little behind, but not depleted. Anthony poured some cold water on me which he always enjoys and offered me some words of wisdom "stay relaxed on the descent". I was off now for the taste of hell, the Red house loop.

Here comes the cold water; Photo by Trailmomma

Anthony loves this part! Photo by Trailmomma

Taking in fuel and last minute advice for Red House Loop, looking focused; Photo by Trailmomma

This loop is about 6.3 miles with a substantial descent at the beginning and also a challenging climb at the end. The descent could easily destroy my quads and while I went down I just kept thinking "when is this going to end" It hurt to descend, not my legs but my body, the pounding my body took step after step I really needed to be at the bottom. I hit the bottom and continued to motor. Knowing that fueling would be important I sucked down a gel and continued to drink my perpetuem and occasional took sips from hydration pack. On the small climb to the red house I would hike and then run, hike and run, repeating this process. I just needed to keep moving.

I went right by the red house and kept on moving. This started the climb up but it wouldn't be the steepest part that was still to come. I ran on the fire road, knowing that this was runnable and it would help me make up some time. I slowly found myself walking and very low on energy, hmm where did this low point come from I asked myself? I could have sworn I took in some gels, (I took in 2 gels at tunnel before the descent and than only 1 more gel before arriving at the red house, and maybe 1/4 of the hammer perpetuem was drunk) My brain was telling me one thing; I had been eating when in actuality I hadn't been eating or drinking, elevation must have messed with my head. I took in a gel and some salt, the gel was hard to get down but I managed. I arrived at the climb and just put my head down and powered up it as quickly and efficiently as I could. I found myself pausing to catch my breath and than moving onward and upward. It was steep, but I powered on.

I could see the aid station and broke out into a small jog during the flat section. I saw Anthony and Trailmomma my crew and I believe the first words out of my mouth were "I feel a low coming on" That was all I said. My crew had no other information to go on; Trailmomma asked if I needed more drink mix, I told her very matter of factly "yes, my bottle is empty" In reality I had about half a bottle left. I also told her I was out of gels, she didn't tell me at time, but I had plenty still. Anthony quickly took my pack because I told him I had been drinking; in fact I hadn't it was still pretty full. Both Trailmomma and Anthony were probably really concerned because I remember Anthony not telling me but asking me to please drink more water. I thought I was drinking, just like I thought I was eating.

My return from Red House; photo by Trailmomma

I was now going to go 12 miles to Diamond Peak ski resort. This is a long stretch longer than I ever imagined. My stomach was bloated and I was running really low on energy. I was slowly going into a dark place. This first section is really runnable and I threw together what I could reminding myself to run, not hike but run. I hooked on with some other runners and allowed the pace to be dictate for me. I was not in the right mind frame. I continued to drink my hammer perpetuem and I think I managed to get some gels in me but honestly I can't remember. All I know is I suffered during this stretch.

I arrived at Bull Wheel and just kept moving, I didn't stop knowing it would take a lot for me to get going again. I was shuffling along and than I was just walking not hiking but walking. I was empty; I took in a gel and some salt and kept moving. Than a female runner went by me and yelled out "Hi Melisa!" It was Jennifer, we had met back at the fire trails last year where we both volunteered and became friends. I yelled back "Hi!" I was so happy to see here. I watched her go by me and than something snapped in my head. I thought, I need to hook on, her pace is doable and she gave me the little bit of energy I needed. I did just that, my walked turned into a shuffle and I slowly hooked on. Jennifer asked if I wanted by and I told her, "No, if you don't mind I will just hook on." She had no problem. We chit chatted for bit and than we just focused on the task at hand. We worked with each other each of us taking a turn in the lead, I had a stronger hike but she had a stronger shuffle than I so we helped each other. I took my turn in the lead and when she noticed the pace was dropping she offered to take the lead from me and I thanked her. But slowly after a few miles my pace slowed and she went further ahead. I tried to keep her in my sights but I was not moving well, she was gone and I thought she looked strong and that I would never see her again.

I hit the descent that would take me to the Diamond Peak Ski Run and the wheels completely fell off. I was in so much pain on this descent, the pain wasn't in my legs but in my stomach and lower pelvic area. Oh the pain just about stopped me in my tracks, each step caused screaming pain and I was barely holding on. My mental capacity now was to reach the aid station and my crew, but I had no idea how far it was. The climb down winded this way and that, it kept going and going and with each step the pain got worse and worse. Runners slowly passed me as I couldn't keep the pace, I was falling apart and doing everything I could to keep it together. I just told myself "keep it together, just keep it together." I kept moving forward when all I really wanted to do was stop and walk, but I wouldn't allow it no matter how bad it got.

I hit the pavement in a all time low ready to cry because of the pain. I arrived at the aid station to huge cheers and my name being yelled. Anthony and Trailmomma came to me and they knew something was wrong. I was not speaking, not one word, it took to much effort to speak and I needed all my effort to stay on my feet. I handed off my pack and looked at Trailmomma and told her I need a bathroom! I checked in and made my way to the bathroom. I was surprised at this because I actually peed and it was clear, and I also did #2. I stood up and just doubled over in pain, standing caused by stomach to hurt. I exited the stall and Trailmomma had some Tylenol for me, which I took after doubling over again from the pain. I made my way back outside where I sat down and removed the rocks from my shoe. Sunscreen was applied, my perpetuem was ready, coke was in another bottle and my pack was good to go. I was sitting there and I hear Anthony tell me "we ready?" I knew that I only had one reply "yes" I say quielty, Again he asked "we ready?" "Yes!" I say louder, I stood up and he instructed me to get soaking wet as wet as I could. Tony helped get me wet and the coldness caused me to start hyperventilating. It was cold, I was overheated and didn't even know it.

The Last 20; A Game Changer:

It took me 7 hours to arrive at the 30 miler mark and the diamond peak ski resort; I was in bad shape upon arrival. Anthony and I headed out of the Diamond Peak resort at 8540 feet for a 1700 foot climb in just under 2 miles. This was going to brutal! Words can not describe the nature of this climb, pictures don't do it justice. Surprisingly I was in good spirits, my crew and friends did their job, they put me back together, though I didn't take in any calories while I was at the aid station.

The climb took about 45 minutes to an hour to complete. Each time I thought we near the top, surprise I wasn't. I had to pause every now and than and when I did I would take a look behind me and enjoy the great view of Lake Tahoe and also where I had come not to long ago. It put it into perspective for me. I was at an all time low, but now with each step forward I was getting higher and stronger. I was hiking this "hill" with power, my will had not been broken it was getting stronger with each step forward up. I was not done,yet!

We climbed and climbed slowly gaining and also passing some. We joked and laughed; the best joke came from me. We were hiking up, both of us with our heads down starring at our shoes and the sand when I said "The view really is great" Anthony just chuckled and I didn't understand why until a few steps later. The "view" of our shoes and sand was great. Priceless.

Ever so slowly we made our way up when all of a sudden I was doubled over in excuriating pain, pain so bad that I was almost dropped to me knees. If Anthony could have seen my eyes he would have noticed they rolled back from the pain. We kept moving on, battling the pain. Than the pain moved lower into my pelvic and again I was doubled over and not moving. We slowed the pace down even though my legs were feeling strong. Walk 5 steps double over, walk 5 more double over. Finally we arrived at top and I was very surprised to see the aid station. It was a small descent but the pain I had just intensified with each step, running was out of the question, but I did. It didn't look pretty and it hurt but I ran the little descent.

At the aid station I really wanted some tums, to see if that would help settle my stomach, but they didn't have any. They did have Sports legs and I took 2 capsules. I really didn't know what it was but it was suppose to help decrease the lactate acid in the legs. All I know is it actually helped my stomach. We pushed on after filling up the bottles with coke.

We attacked the descent to Tunnel Creek. I was able to run pain free and made up some time. My mental capacity was also back, I was fully understanding and joking around. I was a new runner and Anthony knew and capitalised on this opportunity. He pushed me and told me when to transition into a hike. I was moving really well, there was no stiffness, I just allowed the trail to take me. It was a beautiful thing.

As we neared Tunnel I gave Anthony the plan, I needed to use the bathroom and he would fill my pack with water and fill the bottles with coke and we would be out. I hit the bathroom and as I exited found Anthony, I took in a swig of coke and was ready to go. Only Anthony was chowing down. He saw me and I waved at him that I was ready, I knew he needed to fuel but I was ready. I exited the aid station with him right behind me, or so I thought. He had been stopped by his fans and a photo opportunity took place. Meanwhile I am running down the trail focused on the task. He catches up to me, but it took a bit of an effort on his part. I knew he would catch and I wasn't that worried about, it was just funny and we laughed about it for a few miles. Me leaving him behind at the aid station.

Anthony pausing for his photo opp. Photo by Gretchen Brugman

The climb back to Hobart is challenging because it appears that I should be able to run it, but in actuality it is a pretty good sustained climb. I choose to power hike. I took the lead for a bit and than I instructed Anthony that in case he hadn't noticed I was racing. He knew I was racing at this point but I needed to make sure he knew that I knew I was racing. At this point I asked him to take the lead, I knew I had another gear in me and I asked him to push the pace. I wanted the pace increased but I was having a hard time doing it, but I knew that if he did I would do what ever needed to be done to keep up. He pushed the pace let me tell you. We even ran some of the climb. He continued to monitor my fuel intake as by this point I had only had 2 gels and the coke in the bottles. I knew that I could make up a ton of time just by hiking and I was still hiking with a purpose.We were finally passing other runners and when we passed them I wouldn't allow them to hook on. I was making a statement, I was on a mission. It was here that we spotted Jennifer and I was hoping she would hook on. She was battling some serious stomach issues and wasn't able to to hook sadly.

As we neared Hobart I was took the lead back and was running the trail very well at this point, the little rollers I would roll up and over without breaking my stride. I was passing 100 milers, one female 100 miler hooked on and started up a conversation with Anthony. She remembered us from miles back and told us we were moving really well. This lit a fire within me, I increased our pace and slowly she fell back, again I was making statement I told Anthony. Anthony just laughed when I told him that.

Hobart was arriving and I again gave Anthony the plan, wow here I am some 39-40 miles into the race and I am communicating unlike when I saw him and Pam at mile 11 and 18. A big change in attitude! I told him coke and water and I was again going to use the bathroom. After the bathroom I found Anthony and he quickly iced me down and cleaned my face, I was covered in salt and getting the grim off of my face was Heaven.

Off we went to Snow Valley which sits at 9,214 feet. A huge elevation gain. I was focused and on a mission. I ran until I needed to transition into a hike. My hike was still powerful and I knew that the finish was near. Anthony was always the calm voice in my head, keep drinking, now hike this, lets run this, keep going a few more paces. It worked, what ever he said I executed. On the climb up to snow valley, my breathing became very labored and I started wheezing, I could feel my heart beating up in my throat. I had to slow my pace down to recover. Once recovered we continued to motor. We arrived at snow valley and I took some more sports legs, and Anthony refilled the bottles.

7 miles to the finish, that is all 7 miles a piece of cake after what I have already been through. I had hit numerous lows, been depleted of precious calories but somehow someway I was still moving and not just moving but passing other runners while no one was passing me. The fire was burning and the mental aspect of running had pushed me this far. But how much did I have left? Did I have enough in the tank to finish, or did I spend everything in my mental tank? That was a question that I couldn't answer. There was only one way to find out, to finish strong!

The first part of the descent is very technical, very rocky and extremely difficult to get any rhythm. I was constantly having to stop and side step over a boulder or bounce off another boulder. My downhill legs at this point were not liking this and all the stopping and going was painful. Anthony reminded me that it opens up in a bit and I just went with it. No sense in getting angry at this stage of race. I was still passing other runners and no one was able to hook on.

I hit the very runnable section and run I did. I felt free and alive. My leg turnover was solid and I was effortlessly maneuvering around the boulders and over the boulders, effortlessly running the little ups and finding that last gear I needed. Effortlessly making my way down passing others and only one runner hooked on. This freaked me out, and I am sure Anthony could tell, I did everything I knew how to drop the runner. I increased my pace running 8 minute miles on this descent, I even took risk by running over the boulders instead of around, I pushed the hills that much harder but everything I did was not working. He was still there. Anthony calmly told me that I shouldn't push it and risk imploding because that would be fatal, especially after coming this far. I took his advice and slowed the pace back down to a more manageable sustainable pace. A more comfortable pace.

4 miles to go and it felt like I had nothing left to give. Anthony kept reminding to hike this hill and keep it easy, he knew I was running on fumes and was doing everything he could to get me to the finish in one piece and running. He didn't push me, he let me push myself, he offered up the encouragement I needed to continue to believe in myself. I dug even deeper and was hitting the wall, but just like digging for a well, if you dig far enough you will find water. I found my water per say; I was running, slowly counting down the miles, I knew the terrain and I just had to dig deep with each little roller. I was on fumes, I mean fumes there wasn't much left and the runner was still with us. That runner may not have known it but he was pushing me to keep pushing myself, I didn't want him to pass me.

We arrived at the last aid station and we didn't stop, the three of use on our way to the finish. 1.7 miles to go. One final descent to the lake and then it levels out and I can see the finish. It was on other side. I knew that once I crossed the wood bridge we would be in the home stretch. But the bridge couldn't come fast enough. I was less than 3/4 of a mile from the finish. I was running on fumes and just keeping it together; when I see this massive hill. Maybe not massive but a tiny roller. Anthony softly tells me "You can hike this hill." I reply "please, thank you" as I transitioned into my hike I slowly feel my lungs closing, I couldn't get any air, I was wheezing which was causing me to hyperventilate, but I was still moving forward. Nothing is going to stop me; except the fact that I couldn't breath. I hear Anthony say to drink some water, I some how take a sip and kept hiking.

I am so close to the finish, just keep it together I tell myself, keep it together, keep moving what every I do keep moving as I am wheezing and unable to breath. As I crest the climb I am able to breath and somehow find the strength to run again. The bridge, I see the bridge. I cross the bridge and find another gear, I hope I didn't kick to early I remember thinking. Anthony is right by my side matching me stride for stride, offering encouragement, almost there you can see the finish. I hear cheering but I am just focused on crossing the finish line, I have to get there, again I increase the pace and than again I increase the pace and I cross the finish line in 12:23:01 (give or take).

The final push; Photo by Trailmomma

What an incredible journey! I ran the first 30 miles in about 7 hours and the last 20 miles in 5:23. A pretty good split considering the terrain and the black diamond ski slope I had to hike up. It is amazing what the body can do under tough condition. I never thought about dropping I only thought about finishing. My training for this race was spot on, as I have become a stronger runner. The mental aspect of running should not be taken lightly, I know my mental game is what pushed my body those last 20 miles, that and having great support all day.

Finished a well deserved chair! Photo by Trailmomma

Thank you to my crew; Trailmomma and Anthony. You two knew what I needed and you helped me achieve and overcome this event. Thank you for your support all day. Anthony thank you for running with me. Your confidence in my ability allowed me to push on. You knew when and how to push me and you also knew when to let me push myself. I had a great time laughing and joking with you on the trails! An adventure I will not soon be forgetting, or the FROGS!

Sierra Nevada Endurance Run Race Report 2011

I wanted this so bad, but it was a battle right from the start………

I was sitting at the table in the little gymnasium when I had this feeling that I needed to use the bathroom. I headed to the bathroom and as I was there my stomach was torn up. I dry heaved and gagged a bit trying really hard not to lose my breakfast. I came out and I felt a bit pale and clammy. I headed to the start with everyone else and told myself it was just my race nerves really taking over and that things would settle down.

I headed out and slowly and easily found my rhythm on the fire road. I knew that I had a long day ahead of me and that I didn’t need to fight for position. I hit the climb up Mooney ridge and power walked it and took the descent pretty conservatively. It seemed that things were settling in and I was nice and relaxed. I took in some GU and I was focused on my hydration. I knew that hydrating was going to be a key factor in today’s outcome. As I hit the single track and made my way to the first aid station my stomach started feeling a bit funky. It wasn’t bloated but it didn’t feel settled. I arrived at the aid station and grabbed a PB&J Square ate it and used the bathroom hoping that would help my stomach. Only it didn’t. I knew that I shouldn’t push too hard, I would need to slow things down if I wanted to finish.

My stomach pain would come and go and with it I would run and hike. Run and hike. I arrived at horseshoe and again tried to use the bathroom there hoping that that would help the situation. Nope nothing only a little bit of pee. At least I peed. I grabbed another PB&J square and slowly ate it, hoping that if I ate it slowly it would settle better. I made my way down the trail with a really upset stomach on my way to Rattlesnake and the first time I would see my crew, Dustin. I kept feeling like I “needed to reset my stomach” but nothing. My stomach was really upset and wasn’t settling down. I took in some GU knowing I needed the fuel, but that only upset my stomach further. I kept thinking that this was going to be a long day and if I was even going to finish with the way I was feeling.

I arrived at Rattlesnake, told Dustin I needed some water and ice in my pack and he switched out my sort of empty flask for a full one of GU. I also slowly sipped down 2 ginger ales hoping that would help settle my stomach. I told him my situation and he calmly told me to keep eating, during this next stretch try and snack on a waffle anything solid but to keep eating as I needed the calories. It was great to see him and he helped lift my spirits and he even managed to calm me with his words. Sometimes it is just the simple words from a friend that helped encourage me. He told me it was 3 miles to the next aid and to eat during this stretch, the next aid only had water and was self service. All very valuable information and information I retained. He would be at the top of the overlook for me. And with that I was off. I was maybe a few minutes there, but not much.

I left rattlesnake, I don’t think I ate anything but managed to get the 2 ginger ales in me. I ran and hiked when my stomach became too upset. I was focused on hydrating and took a salt every hour. It seemed that I arrived at Avery’s pond really fast and was a bit surprised to see it. Avery’s pond means much more to me. It brought a smile to my face and a brief memory of my friend Pam asking Anthony one day “so how will I know when I reach Avery’s Pond?” I chuckled a bit and ran around it. The trail wasn’t marked so I took the right because that is the way I usually go. This was the only area I noticed during the race that wasn’t marked, but whichever way you go you will get there.

During this stretch I slowly ate a honey stinger waffle because the last time I felt nausea it helped. It took a good 10 minutes for me to get it down. But I ate the entire thing, and a few minutes later I felt like I was going to get sick. Nothing was working, my usual fuel wasn’t working and I knew that I needed to keep eating. I was thinking that I would need to switch to liquid calories and that I would be picking up my hand held and drinking coke. But I had to get their intake first.

I breezed through the water aid station and made my way to Cardiac. I was hiking faster than some runners were running and I just kept my forward movement hiking when needed and running when things felt settled. It was working as I was slowly making my way to cardiac. I passed a few runners which really lifted my spirits and once at cardiac I downed some coke and started the grueling climb up cardiac.

I didn’t push too hard, I just kept it nice and steady, one foot in front of the other, remembering to breath and to just keep moving. Cardiac is called cardiac for a reason. I could feel my heart beat beating against my chest, I could feel my legs burning with each step up I went, but I never stopped I kept going until I reached the top. Once at the top I slowly transitioned to a run. I took in some GU knowing I had used precious reserve energy and that I was already behind on my calories. I was almost to the overlook and another chance to see Dustin plus my Fleet Feet friends. I just kept thinking about that and pushed out any negative thoughts and how uncomfortable my stomach was making things. I passed a few runners during this stretch and just kept on moving.

I hit the pavement and my steps became lighter and quicker. I was close. I was moving know. I was thinking of what I needed once I arrived. I rounded the corner and I waved to Dustin. He came running along with Anthony. Then out of nowhere Pam is by my side. A huge smile comes over my face and I hug her. I am so happy to have seen her as my time at this point was way off what I originally predicted. I quickly started telling everyone what I needed. I needed to use the bathroom; I need water and ice in my pack and both of my flask switched and water downed some more as it was still too thick. I also wanted coke in my hand held and my stomach was still upset. I handed everything off and made my way to the port a potty, only it was being occupied. I did the unthinkable and quickly squatted behind the horse trailer and Anthony and Pam were my look outs. After that Anthony gave me 2 Tums for my stomach and I ate them both and then I had to spit them out as it became too chalky.

 Anthony soaked me and that really woke me. Dustin and Pam worked on my pack. I was ready to move. Anthony walked me down he reassured me that I had plenty of time as I was beginning to worry about the cut offs. I vaguely remember him telling me take it easy I knew how long this should take and to not push it too hard.

I was off with that. My entire crew did a fantastic job with this stop. I knew what I needed and what wasn’t working which made the transition easier. I was making my way down to no hands bridge. I was bombing the descent. I had a new found energy from the aid station. I didn’t eat anything there so I was running on everyone else’s energy.  It felt really good flying down and passing other runners. It was like a new life had come upon me. I hiked the small hills and drank my coke. I knew I needed to finish my bottle so that I could refill it at the bridge. Calories in, calories in was my mantra and my calories right now was coke. I knew coke would quickly burn off but it was better than nothing.

I was now running down Robbie on my way to the single track when all of a sudden I had to stop; I had just gotten sick in my mouth. It was little bit, but just enough to completely stop me in my tracks as I feared more was to follow. Luckily nothing else did and I washed my mouth out and continued on my way. I hit the single track and found myself all alone but moving at a nice clip. I suddenly heard what sounded like a very loud drunk person crashing through the woods above me. I stopped and looked really hard, and then I remembered what Jenny told me. This is what a bear sounds like. I quickly took off running harder knowing that I didn’t want to get stopped by a bear, one I didn’t know what to do and two, I was alone. I hit the fire road and as runners passed me I forgot to warn them about the bear, why I am not sure it had actually left my mind.

I hit no hands bridge and the volunteers there filled my bottle with coke, I ate 1 square of PB&J and was ready for my return. It took me 6 hours to hit the turn around.

I headed back and as I was hitting the single track some runners told me they had just scared a bear off the trail and to be careful. I told them “ohh that was what that noise was.” I am not sure what they thought of me. But they said it held them up for about 10-15 minutes. I started to make my climb when another came around the bend and told me she just saw the bear cub. I asked her where the momma bear was because I was sure that mamma bear wasn’t too far behind. And then I heard the bear right above me. The runner heading down took off and left me. I stood there for a second and then started hiking up hoping that when I rounded the corner I wouldn’t see the bear. The bear made so much noise but I could never see it. I never saw it, but trust me it was very near.

A runner passed me looking really fresh and I tried to tag along, but her pace was just too fast. I settled back in and continued hiking knowing how grueling this climb really was. As I was nearing the top I heard my best friend Anthony. He had come down to check on me. His booming laughter and voice are not hard to notice. That really lifted my spirits. I told him about my bear encounter and was really excited to see him. He asked me how I was feeling and I told him I was feeling pretty good, just tired. I had no cramping. He was pretty excited with my answers. He said that tired was doable and he could work on that. Cramping and having no quads would have been a totally different story.

We ran together for a bit and hiked the bigger hills. I told him what I think I needed when I arrived back at the overlook. I wanted more coke, I needed my GU even more diluted than what it was as it was still way too thick and very hard to get down my sensitive stomach. I was drinking my water and I had just taken a salt not too long ago. Things were on point. He ran ahead of me to get things ready. Before he left he told me he thought I was doing the smart thing and taking it smart on the return to the overlook. Most runners that came back looked like they had cracked and I wasn’t one of them. All good things to hear especially since I had still had a long ways to go.

Back at the overlook there was again a huge abundance of energy; the Fleet Feet Team was there. Kirk and Jenny came down to walk me back up, Dustin was by my side and taking my pack. I used the bathroom, but I was having a problem. It felt like I had to pee but nothing happened. Anthony told me not to worry, it was better to have the urge than no urge at all.

 I sat down and emptied the tiny pebbles out of my shoe, Jenny helped me with that, I than ran over to the canal and soaked myself and washed all the salt off of my face. That was very refreshing. It was almost like I was rinsing away everything that happened earlier and starting fresh. After my “cleansing” I needed more body glide.

My rear end was chaffing. It was a pretty quick stop everyone was helping and I was ready to go in no time. Anthony and I were ready and off we went.

Anthony’s main concern was calories. I needed calories as I was really behind since I hadn’t been able to eat much all day. He became my voice in my head, “drink coke, ok now some water, how about my spizz” Calories in was our mantra, coke, water salt, coke, water, salt and repeat. At one point on top of the canal I had to stop as my stomach really was upset and I had just gotten sick a bit and we walked for a bit until my stomach calmed down. We hit cardiac and I ran down it remembering not to blow up my quads. Running down is so much easier than coming up. We hit the aid station at the base, filled our bottles, soaked and were off to the sweet runnable single track.

The section of trail is very runnable and it will pull you if you let. Well, I did just that. It pulled me with ease and I even ran a few of the shorter hills without any extra effort. Anthony kept telling me how good I looked, keep it easy don’t push. We even were catching up to all those runners that had passed me earlier in the day. We would run on by and keep going and never see them again. What a huge lift to be running so well at this stage of the race. I stayed in front of Anthony and ever so often I would hear “ok keep drinking, are your legs ok?” and then I would drink more coke and take some more salt. He even had me taking 2 salts an hour and wow what a difference that made.

The single track pulled us all the way to the outpost where we refilled our packs with ice and enjoyed some more coke. My stomach was pretty upset and I grabbed 4 saltines and Anthony grabbed some as well. It was really tough to get the saltines down, but I did. We even gave my extra saltines to a runner who was getting sick on the side of the trail.

We hit the water pump and then not to long Avery’s Pond, which this time was marked. I had to walk a bit here because my stomach did not like the saltines and I was ready to get sick all over the trail. I was bent over and Anthony told me to keep moving, it was better to move while being sick than stand there as that surely would cause me to lose everything. I listened and kept moving.

We were quickly approaching Rattlesnake and were discussing what I needed. I wanted more coke, no ice as it was getting watered down too much and I needed more ice and water in my pack. I was drinking up my water like it was going out of style. As we neared Anthony took the lead and increased the pace as this section was completely runnable. I just focused on his feet and when his feet moved mine did as well. We ran the short little hills ran over the bridge and then hiked the big hill but we transitioned back to a run very quickly. It felt like I was doing 9 minute miles but I am not sure, I was just focused on Anthony’s feet and that was all.

Anthony pulled ahead of me to the aid station and I followed a few minutes later. He had my bottles filled and Dustin worked on filling my pack and the Ultra Runner Podcast team cooled me off. Anthony applied some Vaseline to my neck as it was chaffing from my pack and then we were ready to run. Only 10 miles to go. But first I had to get through the grinder.

My legs were still feeling really good, I would occasionally shake them out and when I did that Anthony would suggest another salt and more coke. I made really good time through the grinder, even running some of it and some of the hills. I was on auto pilot just keep moving, just keep moving, keep drinking and taking salt, keep moving. I hiked when the hill became too steep or the terrain became too rocky. But I was running just as soon as I could. I made it through the grinder in one piece and even managed to pass a couple of runners who I never saw again.

It was 5:30 now with only maybe 5ish miles to go. I told Anthony I really wanted to be in by 6:30, that would be a 6 hour second half. He said it would be close and I pushed the pace even faster. I picked the pace up knowing how close I was, but I also knew that could crack myself if I went to hard and then really struggle the few miles. I was running, pushing myself and the entire time my voice in my head keeps me on track with fuel and water and salt.

As I neared twin rocks the spot where I had to drop last year I became very chocked up as I said to Anthony “That is where I dropped last year.” I ran by it in seconds. I was running further than I have previously gone in this race. I was running from my heart I was doing whatever I could to keep the pain barrier at bay for a bit longer. In my mind I knew I only had a little over 3 miles to go. 3 miles that is all, and earlier today I thought I wasn’t going to make it. I thought it was going to be a slug fest just to finish. And then just like that excruciating pain ripped from my foot.

The pain was overwhelming the fiery burning sensation as the blister on the bottom of my pinky toe exploded. It was all that I could do just to keep moving. It was so painful, I hadn’t been in this much pain all day and then slowly the pain started to work its way up my toes to my ankles to my legs and into my groin. Ohh no the pain was slowly making its way up my body. The fire pain ripping through my toe caused me to walk. I was hobbling, with less than 3 miles to go. I hobbled into the Granit Bay aid station downed some coke and continued hobbling. I had about 2.8 miles to go.

Anthony calmly asked me to push past the pain barrier for a bit longer. I didn’t know what I was going to do. I was hobbling so slowly and then a runner came blazing past me. I tried to run and slowly I began running. Calmness had come over my entire body and I told myself I was going to push hard the last bit no matter what. The pain went away within a step, it was like nothing had happened and I was out for a 2 mile run. I had managed to block out the pain, I was going to finish strong.

I was running and I was slowly catching up to the runner who had passed me. As I was rounded the corner getting ready to climb Mooney ridge the one last big hill of the day I heard Dustin. That brought forth another gear. Anthony quickly stopped to get me some coke and I just kept on motoring. I was 1.5 miles from the finish. I ran half way up Mooney Ridge and overtook the runner who had passed me. I heard Anthony yell up to me “don’t crack” I quickly transitioned into a power hike and continued to gain ground on the runner. Anthony quickly caught back up to me and I took a few swigs of coke. We hit the top and continued running. I wasn’t going to slow down I was so close to the finish. We hit the descent and I just kept on moving.

Now we were on Cavitt road only a few more rollers to go. I was running 10 minute miles and it felt like I was only getting faster. I ran up the hills, Anthony being the calm steady voice in my head like he had been all day, “now run to that ribbon” I would do just that and keep going. He blocked the wind for me as there was pretty decent breeze coming off the lake. Anthony calmly told only two more rollers and then it is all downhill. I ran those rollers and as I crested the second roller I spotted off in the distance Dustin. He had come out; I ran faster, my legs pumping.

Then I saw Julie Fingar; no that couldn’t be her? But it was. She had come out to run me in. She knew that this race was about redemption for me. That brought another gear I didn’t know I had. I heard Anthony say I was running 6:30 pace. Julie called out to me “Great job Melisa, this is all for you!” and with that another gear was found, I quickly sprinted past her and she had to work to keep up. She pushed ahead of me and said “We can race to the finish?” and with that another gear was found. I was moving, my breathing was really labored and I was just focused on the finish. I heard Julie say “relax Melisa, relax” I rounded the corner and heard the cheers from the spectators at the finish.

Just a bit longer, keep pushing, I was running as fast I could, I hit the pavement with Julie right by my side, only a bit longer and the announcer called out “Melisa Mahon #41, redemption is complete!” I crossed the finish line and took a few steps before my legs buckled; I almost went down from the effort I had put in. I quickly zeroed in on Michaela and then Lily was by my side. I heard Anthony call out “Don’t lie down, whatever you do don’t lie down” I was pale and having trouble catching my breath but it was all worth it as Redemption was mine today!

Redemption never felt better. I did it, I overcame stomach issues that lasted all day and I ran the last 25 miles or so on coke and 3 GU’s. My last real food was at No Hands Bridge a small PB&J square, besides the 4 saltines at the outpost. No other runners passed me from the overlook until Granit bay, but I passed that runner on Mooney Ridge. I still to this day have a huge smile on my face and when I think about the race and the effort it took to get the finish I am just amazed. What a way to end this season.

Thank you to Dustin for crewing me and being there when I needed you. Seeing you on the course throughout the day was awesome. Thank you to the Fleet Feet Team at the overlook. Knowing they were there made me push on and keep going. Thank you to my pacer Anthony, the voice in my head. You kept me moving and helped me that a thank you is not enough for what you did. Thank you to all my friends at the finish who were there when I came in. Thank you Lily for taking care of me while my body shut down and for believing in me when I called you that Thursday in tears and in a panic. Thank you to race director Julie Fingar for coming out and running the last ½ mile with me to the finish. That really made my day and allowed me to find another gear that I didn’t know I had. What a day!!!

 REDEMPTION IS COMPLETE!!!!

Turnaround: 6hours
Finish: 6:20:19
Total Time: 12:20:19