Wow, I've had zero motivation to blog lately. I started writing this blog to document my journey through training, experimentation, and lessons I learn along the way. Perhaps I am just running out of things to learn? With each passing year I am certainly experiencing fewer journeys, instead focusing on spending more time around the house. I think that is a normal pattern for an endurance athlete. Or, maybe I am just lacking motivation right now as I wait for Winter to pass and Spring to begin in full? Eh, time will tell...
Anyway, the one thing I have been doing is training hard for the Colorado Marathon. I've run half a dozen marathons (counting "races" only) and this is the most I've stayed with a plan and consistent training yet. I typically get bored and run out of motivation to put in the hard work each day. This goal (3:12) feels so large that I cannot afford to slack. And, I had a rough patch that lasted three weeks due to a nasty, long-lasting illness. While I kept my head above water during that period, it definitely heightened my sense of urgency after getting healthy.
I am averaging around 60 miles a week these days without much vertical gain, but with tons of structure. A typical week has me doing 2 workouts (intervals, Fartleks, or tempo variations) plus a long run, of course. I've used my long run to do way more pace work than previous training cycles. Being so far out of practice from running hard for that long, I feel very adamant that I need that type of work. My long runs are far from fun -- I much prefer adventures at places like Indian Creek or Deer Creek -- but I am committed to my goal. Three more of these long runs and then I can see if it has all worked.
One thing that has stood out about this cycle is the number of times per week that I run between eight and twelve miles. About five days a week I run eight miles or more. While some of that is with pace and a bit faster than when I ultra train, each day is a pretty big commitment to running, rarely squeezing my workouts under an hour. When I consider what it takes to apply the appropriate stress and get to an appropriate weekly mileage (without B2Bs to rely on the weekend), this makes sense. But it isn't easy! I have enjoyed my journey back to the marathon and experiencing the contrast in training, but it certainly isn't the type of training that stimulates me over a long period of time. I'll be happy when trail season is officially here. In the meantime, I'll continue attack this marathon the best I know how.
Friday, March 18, 2016
Wednesday, February 10, 2016
2016 Update - Wasatch Front
The Wasatch Front 100 lottery was held on Saturday and I got in. It was truly unexpected -- though I found out later the odds were better than 50% -- and it has caused me to finalize plans for 2016. Prior to the lottery, I had almost made up my mind I was taking the year off 100s. All I really know about the race is that it is stinking hard, alleged to be beautiful, and they are changing the course in 2016. Should be fun! The good news is that I do not project favorably as a 24-hour finisher, so I can approach the race and training with perhaps a little less stress and see if I can figure out a way to enjoy the journey a bit more this time. I love trail ultra running, but I simply must come to a place where I can enjoy them more and "compete" in them less in order to continue on this path. The training takes a toll on my body and feels like it puts me at odds with home life more than I'd like.
Marathon training is going well and I am extremely happy with my decision to do this. In fact, I am somewhat disappointed that I haven't done more structured workouts the past four years and have allowed myself to be too specific in the trail and ultra world. I love that world, but you can have too much of a good thing. Anyhow, there is an argument to be made that I this is the hardest I've trained for any marathon -- extremely focused and disciplined workouts day after day. Previous marathons plans more informal, jumping around between ultra plans, Pftiz plans, and Hudson plans. Recent workouts have given me confidence that a 3:12 is possible. However, my acceptance into Wasatch means this is a one shot deal, at least for 2016.
I am eagerly awaiting Spring and dry dirt to get back out on the trails. This year, I hope to do it much fitter and keep an edge of "quality" to my training, which likely includes taking a step backwards in volume (both miles and vertical gain).
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Where Have I Been Lately?
.... or maybe more appropriately, where am I going?! I guess it isn't all that unusual for me to go quiet blogging this time of year. Anyway...
2016 planning has been totally unlike the last 4 years where I knew exactly what I wanted to do. Having run Western States last year, a major life goal was accomplished and my thirst for continuing down the 100 mile path was quenched, at least a little bit. The lotteries were a total bust and everything I'd care to do in 2016 has filled up lightening fast. On something of a nostalgic whim, I entered the Wasatch 100 lottery and now await the results of that on February 6th. Should that go bust, there is a very real chance I am taking a year off of running 100s. It might be good for me, possibly exactly what I need to recharge the batteries. I have zero idea what I'll do in that instance. It will likely involve some type of trail ultra, but likely something short(er) and scenic. The thought of it kind of excites me, particularly since I am already training for speed anyway.
In the meantime, I am marathon training. My hope is to qualify for the Boston Marathon in 2017, a pretty ambitious goal as well as one of my few remaining running goals. I am not taking this challenge lightly and far from certain I'll pull it off. The qualifying standard is 3:15 and I have once surpassed that, but I think it will take something closer to 3:12 to actually get into the race, which would be a small PR for me. Considering that was four years ago, it might be a BIG PR for me. I am quickly remembering how hard marathon training is and why I gave it up! The biggest difference is that there aren't B2B long runs to lean on for padding weekly mileage, the result is a lot more midweek mileage. That means less sleep and more cold, dark runs. Of course, there is also a lot more structure as well -- intervals, fartleks, tempos, progressions, etc... Honestly, I kind of enjoy that part. Once I gain the confidence to get out the door, the structure keeps me engaged and the miles pass quickly. Plus, I am a data geek and that gives me lots of things to consider later.
Another unique aspect of the marathon is the structured, hard long runs (aka specificity!). Most ultra long runs are not as challenging as a marathon pace long run in terms of recovery. I can run for three hours easy in the mountains and bounce back relatively quickly. But a 2-hour long run with pace has left me pretty wiped out on several occasions this cycle so far. Of course, over the course of the last four years I have optimized my body for that type of mountain running, so it makes sense that changing has confused my body.
One thing I have not changed is my diet. I continue to be disciplined in following a low carbohydrate regimen. The only difference between now and ultra training is that I have used a bit more Generation Ucan for fueling before some harder runs -- maybe six times now in six weeks. So I am not abusing it, but using it strategically when I have to hit a hard run or feel a bit low.
In short, I am in a bit of a waiting pattern on the trail and ultra front, but I am busy working my butt off for another goal. It has been a nice change of pace and maybe more of a challenge than I expected. It is a struggle to run 10 miles at 7:30 pace right now, I cannot fathom running 26.2 miles faster than that. The reality that I once did that blows my mind.
2016 planning has been totally unlike the last 4 years where I knew exactly what I wanted to do. Having run Western States last year, a major life goal was accomplished and my thirst for continuing down the 100 mile path was quenched, at least a little bit. The lotteries were a total bust and everything I'd care to do in 2016 has filled up lightening fast. On something of a nostalgic whim, I entered the Wasatch 100 lottery and now await the results of that on February 6th. Should that go bust, there is a very real chance I am taking a year off of running 100s. It might be good for me, possibly exactly what I need to recharge the batteries. I have zero idea what I'll do in that instance. It will likely involve some type of trail ultra, but likely something short(er) and scenic. The thought of it kind of excites me, particularly since I am already training for speed anyway.
In the meantime, I am marathon training. My hope is to qualify for the Boston Marathon in 2017, a pretty ambitious goal as well as one of my few remaining running goals. I am not taking this challenge lightly and far from certain I'll pull it off. The qualifying standard is 3:15 and I have once surpassed that, but I think it will take something closer to 3:12 to actually get into the race, which would be a small PR for me. Considering that was four years ago, it might be a BIG PR for me. I am quickly remembering how hard marathon training is and why I gave it up! The biggest difference is that there aren't B2B long runs to lean on for padding weekly mileage, the result is a lot more midweek mileage. That means less sleep and more cold, dark runs. Of course, there is also a lot more structure as well -- intervals, fartleks, tempos, progressions, etc... Honestly, I kind of enjoy that part. Once I gain the confidence to get out the door, the structure keeps me engaged and the miles pass quickly. Plus, I am a data geek and that gives me lots of things to consider later.
Another unique aspect of the marathon is the structured, hard long runs (aka specificity!). Most ultra long runs are not as challenging as a marathon pace long run in terms of recovery. I can run for three hours easy in the mountains and bounce back relatively quickly. But a 2-hour long run with pace has left me pretty wiped out on several occasions this cycle so far. Of course, over the course of the last four years I have optimized my body for that type of mountain running, so it makes sense that changing has confused my body.
One thing I have not changed is my diet. I continue to be disciplined in following a low carbohydrate regimen. The only difference between now and ultra training is that I have used a bit more Generation Ucan for fueling before some harder runs -- maybe six times now in six weeks. So I am not abusing it, but using it strategically when I have to hit a hard run or feel a bit low.
In short, I am in a bit of a waiting pattern on the trail and ultra front, but I am busy working my butt off for another goal. It has been a nice change of pace and maybe more of a challenge than I expected. It is a struggle to run 10 miles at 7:30 pace right now, I cannot fathom running 26.2 miles faster than that. The reality that I once did that blows my mind.
Thursday, December 31, 2015
2015 Year In Review
Wow, a Year End post can take so many different directions. Like many runners, I tend to focus on the stats and the work that I accumulate over the year. (It really is impressive what a person can accomplish if they apply consistency and discipline to anything in their life...) I'll get to the stats, but I think I'll start this post with the things I am thankful for:
Health. Running has always been about getting healthy for me. I've now gone 2 years without an injury that required any meaningful time-off or attention. I am quite proud of that. Some of that is due to the slower paced nature of trail ultrarunning -- my focus the past 2 years. But, trail running also comes with tremendous amounts of vertical gain, which can cause injury in excess. In addition to physical health, I am happy with my metabolic health. Two years on LCHF and I have never felt better: I've barely been sick. My blood pressure is lower. I sleep better. I am running better. My body composition is leaner.
Friends. Running has also become a large part of my social life -- how can it not when you devote 12 hours a week to something? I am so thankful for my group of running friends that help to keep me motivated and show up to support me on my crazy adventures. The social aspects of running come with some challenges, like any social circle, but it is a very positive influence in my life overall. Some of the biggest highlights of 2015 were seeing my friends have success -- Chuck destroying Leadville and Jon nailing his first 100. I guess I like to think I had something to do with helping them succeed...
Racing. I enjoy racing as a way to test my limits, test the things I learn and want to implement along the way, and really just to add adventure to my life. 2015 was incredible as far as races go, by far my best year racing trail ultras. Of course, it will always be remembered for Western States, but 8th and 9th place finishes at Javelina and Bear Chase 50k respectively is also an accomplishment I am quite proud of.
Now for some stats.... I finished with PRs in mileage (2852) and vertical gain (300k), both are 10-15% improvements on previous PRs. I don't train to accumulate stats; in fact, I believe in doing the minimum necessary to be prepared for racing. And, I believe in being a complete athlete, which means time in the gym and sometimes pushes running to the back-burner. Nonetheless, this year was a big year in stats, primarily because I raced on both ends of the calendar (D30 in May and Javelina on October/November). Interestingly, I accumulated another 350 miles and 30K of vertical gain walking, mostly with my spoiled dog! I have never tracked that before, so it was kind of fun to see how that turned out.
2016 is still a bit up in the air. I am committed to the Colorado Marathon and actually quite nervous about it. The primary motivation is break out of the ultrarunning mindset a bit and re-develop some of the systems I've neglected by doing so many slow, heart-rate-driven miles. That's exactly what scares me, the unsureness of how quickly those systems can come back. The last time I raced a marathon, I was on a streak of 5 straight marathon PRs. Now I am coming off a 4 year break.
Beyond that, things are very much up in the air. I've struggled to find the motivation to do a 100, but I need to requalify for both Western States and Hardrock. I never thought I'd do Hardrock, but it is slowly emerging as a potential endpoint to this crazy ultrarunning life. I am basically considering every race other than Leadville at this point.
No matter what I do, I am positive it will be fun and full of adventure. Thanks to all of you that were a part of my 2016. Of course, I'd be remiss if I didn't include my family and say thank you to them for all of their support. Hopefully I contributed something positive to your journey as well.
Health. Running has always been about getting healthy for me. I've now gone 2 years without an injury that required any meaningful time-off or attention. I am quite proud of that. Some of that is due to the slower paced nature of trail ultrarunning -- my focus the past 2 years. But, trail running also comes with tremendous amounts of vertical gain, which can cause injury in excess. In addition to physical health, I am happy with my metabolic health. Two years on LCHF and I have never felt better: I've barely been sick. My blood pressure is lower. I sleep better. I am running better. My body composition is leaner.
Friends. Running has also become a large part of my social life -- how can it not when you devote 12 hours a week to something? I am so thankful for my group of running friends that help to keep me motivated and show up to support me on my crazy adventures. The social aspects of running come with some challenges, like any social circle, but it is a very positive influence in my life overall. Some of the biggest highlights of 2015 were seeing my friends have success -- Chuck destroying Leadville and Jon nailing his first 100. I guess I like to think I had something to do with helping them succeed...
Racing. I enjoy racing as a way to test my limits, test the things I learn and want to implement along the way, and really just to add adventure to my life. 2015 was incredible as far as races go, by far my best year racing trail ultras. Of course, it will always be remembered for Western States, but 8th and 9th place finishes at Javelina and Bear Chase 50k respectively is also an accomplishment I am quite proud of.
Now for some stats.... I finished with PRs in mileage (2852) and vertical gain (300k), both are 10-15% improvements on previous PRs. I don't train to accumulate stats; in fact, I believe in doing the minimum necessary to be prepared for racing. And, I believe in being a complete athlete, which means time in the gym and sometimes pushes running to the back-burner. Nonetheless, this year was a big year in stats, primarily because I raced on both ends of the calendar (D30 in May and Javelina on October/November). Interestingly, I accumulated another 350 miles and 30K of vertical gain walking, mostly with my spoiled dog! I have never tracked that before, so it was kind of fun to see how that turned out.
2016 is still a bit up in the air. I am committed to the Colorado Marathon and actually quite nervous about it. The primary motivation is break out of the ultrarunning mindset a bit and re-develop some of the systems I've neglected by doing so many slow, heart-rate-driven miles. That's exactly what scares me, the unsureness of how quickly those systems can come back. The last time I raced a marathon, I was on a streak of 5 straight marathon PRs. Now I am coming off a 4 year break.
Beyond that, things are very much up in the air. I've struggled to find the motivation to do a 100, but I need to requalify for both Western States and Hardrock. I never thought I'd do Hardrock, but it is slowly emerging as a potential endpoint to this crazy ultrarunning life. I am basically considering every race other than Leadville at this point.
No matter what I do, I am positive it will be fun and full of adventure. Thanks to all of you that were a part of my 2016. Of course, I'd be remiss if I didn't include my family and say thank you to them for all of their support. Hopefully I contributed something positive to your journey as well.
Saturday, December 12, 2015
Preliminary 2016 Thoughts
It is the time of year to reflect on the year gone-by and start thinking about the next one. This year was quite a bit different for me than the others; I have become acutely aware of time, both of its passing and how precious little I have left to enjoy some things. In 2015, my mom passed away, my wife turned forty, and my daughter entered her second year of high school. I very suddenly feel old! Strangely, I never felt fitter (or healthier) in my life and I had a tremendous year racing. The lotteries came and went without my name being called. I wasn't torn up about that as I had very low expectations. Truthfully, I was more bummed for some of my friends that were left out. Fortune shined on me in 2015 and I got into Western States 100. Given the ultrarunning landscape, the fact that I got to run either Hardrock or Western States in my lifetime is pretty cool and I'll have no regrets if this journey ends without another. After my run on Wednesday, I wrote the following on Strava:
While I absolutely love ultra running and mountain running, it takes a big toll. I've spent more than 450 hours training in 2015 and that doesn't count any recovery work, cross training, or commute time to and from trails. It is undoubtedly a huge aspect of my life. There is a constant tug when I weigh that against family time, particularly in years like 2015 where I raced in May and October (November, really) causing me to train nearly all year long. Being "in training" for nine months out of the year is mentally taxing and unfair to my family. I run pretty much year round, but training is different -- it implies a sense of priority over other things and requires a high-level of discipline and sacrifice.
Where am I going with this all this babble? Well, the first thing is that I need to mix up the routine. It has been 8,000 miles and 850K of vertical gain (161 vertical miles!!!) since I last properly trained for a marathon. I am overdue. The effort to train for a marathon is hard, but it isn't as time consuming as an ultramarathon. And, I think maybe it will help me rebalance my body from the constant sub-MAF efforts and granny-gears over the past three season. I have been pretty fortunate to not suffer injuries in the past two years, but I still feel like mixing it up is a good thing for me. And, it takes pressure off to hit trails in Winter. I enjoy a bit of Winter trail running, but not when I am prepping for a hundred miler in rain, snow and mud (like I did most of this past Winter/Spring). Trail running really gets fun about May, conveniently when I'll be finishing up with the Colorado Marathon. That is where this was going, by the way, I'll be running the Colorado Marathon in May with hopes of qualifying for the Boston Marathon. While I get a few extra minutes since I'll be forty for Boston 2017, 3:15 is still a stout standard. I have beaten that standard, but it will have been four years ago by the time I try again.
The million dollar question is what to do after May? The first thing I know for sure is that I need to find a little more balance through the summer months. It is looking like I'll do a September hundred miler (either Bear or Run Rabbit Run), mostly just to keep myself lottery eligible for years to come. As hard as it will be for me, the primary goal will be to do the minimum amount of training I can do to be effectively trained for the event and finish. I don't plan to PR or even "race". Rather, I'd like to do the best I can to enjoy the experience (is that possible?!) and keep a consistent effort, maybe learn a few more things. That is a psychologically dangerous approach to a race, but I think I have enough experience now to navigate those traps.
Well, that's enough dribble for now. Here's to the last few weeks of 2015 and an amazing 2016!
"Routines. They are great for having structure and comfort and making sense of a crazy world with endless possibilities. But do they hold us back when we become slaves to our routines? I love running as motivation to stay fit and setting goals and challenges for myself. I love running 100s for the adventure -- so much happens in those days. But, is this routine of being on the lottery treadmill really holding me back from doing other things (not just running related things either)? It is particularly hard for me because I got my day in the sun. With odds at about 1-5%, the fact that I got to run WS or HR at all is pretty cool (and, I nailed it too!). What to do? That's question I am trying to answer in the next 3 weeks. It is a back and forth tussle..."
While I absolutely love ultra running and mountain running, it takes a big toll. I've spent more than 450 hours training in 2015 and that doesn't count any recovery work, cross training, or commute time to and from trails. It is undoubtedly a huge aspect of my life. There is a constant tug when I weigh that against family time, particularly in years like 2015 where I raced in May and October (November, really) causing me to train nearly all year long. Being "in training" for nine months out of the year is mentally taxing and unfair to my family. I run pretty much year round, but training is different -- it implies a sense of priority over other things and requires a high-level of discipline and sacrifice.
Where am I going with this all this babble? Well, the first thing is that I need to mix up the routine. It has been 8,000 miles and 850K of vertical gain (161 vertical miles!!!) since I last properly trained for a marathon. I am overdue. The effort to train for a marathon is hard, but it isn't as time consuming as an ultramarathon. And, I think maybe it will help me rebalance my body from the constant sub-MAF efforts and granny-gears over the past three season. I have been pretty fortunate to not suffer injuries in the past two years, but I still feel like mixing it up is a good thing for me. And, it takes pressure off to hit trails in Winter. I enjoy a bit of Winter trail running, but not when I am prepping for a hundred miler in rain, snow and mud (like I did most of this past Winter/Spring). Trail running really gets fun about May, conveniently when I'll be finishing up with the Colorado Marathon. That is where this was going, by the way, I'll be running the Colorado Marathon in May with hopes of qualifying for the Boston Marathon. While I get a few extra minutes since I'll be forty for Boston 2017, 3:15 is still a stout standard. I have beaten that standard, but it will have been four years ago by the time I try again.
The million dollar question is what to do after May? The first thing I know for sure is that I need to find a little more balance through the summer months. It is looking like I'll do a September hundred miler (either Bear or Run Rabbit Run), mostly just to keep myself lottery eligible for years to come. As hard as it will be for me, the primary goal will be to do the minimum amount of training I can do to be effectively trained for the event and finish. I don't plan to PR or even "race". Rather, I'd like to do the best I can to enjoy the experience (is that possible?!) and keep a consistent effort, maybe learn a few more things. That is a psychologically dangerous approach to a race, but I think I have enough experience now to navigate those traps.
Well, that's enough dribble for now. Here's to the last few weeks of 2015 and an amazing 2016!
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
My Best Race Performances
I found myself thinking about my best race performances and decided it would be a fun topic for a blog post, better than another post on diets or a race report. I'll start off this post by saying that this is a pretty arbitrary post and could change if you ask me 6 months from now. There is no formal criteria other than how I feel the race went combined with my performance. Also, while I gave each an official ranking, I also tiered the races because there wasn't much difference between certain races.
2 - Western States 100 (June 2015). It was very tempting to put this race as #1 because it is freaking Western States! As it is, the margin is close and my only other tier 1 race. Considering the pressure the lottery and high stakes put you under, I am incredibly happy with how this day went. I ran nearly the entire course and ran very patient, almost veteran race. My lone concern coming away from the race was my feet. I've had issues with my feet in 100s and it popped up late in this race. I fought through, but it leaves me feeling unsure about future 100s.
4 - Leadville Trail Marathon (July 2011). It has been 4+ years now and I am remember less and less about that day. But, this race deserves a spot on this list for many reasons. First, it was my first ever trail race, containing a nasty 6500 feet of climbing at altitude in just under a marathon distance. I was a total rookie with no idea how I'd do on such a course and I ran strong, including a 25 min negative split (not that hard to do on this course, but still...). In many respects, this was also my first ultra. While not technically an ultra at only 26 miles, it runs like a 50k. Once again, this was one of my highest Ultra Signup ranks.
5 - Javelina Jundred 100k (October 2015). My highest overall Ultra Signup rank (90) but only my 5th best race. What gives? Well, unlike Quad Rock, this race suited my strengths. I run lots of roads and am quite comfortable on runnable courses (those under say 75 feet/mile of vertical). And, I have become a decent heat runner and worked quite a bit on it this summer. So, I am mostly disappointed with some of the amateur mistakes I made -- forgetting my cooling hat at home, not drinking enough at aid, not utilizing my arm sleeves with ice -- that led to a rather uncomfortable last lap and rather large positive split. I don't think I left more than 15 mins on the course that day, but I pride myself on running smart races and executing well. That said, I am still quite happy with my overall time and placement in the race and think it was a solid A- day. And, I am over the moon happy with how hard I battled on that last lap. I didn't have much to give, but I gave it my all.
7 - Bear Chase 50k (September 2015). Another very high Ultra Signup result. I don't have a whole lot to say about this race, really. I went out hard and suffered a bit on the final lap (in the heat). I got a great overall finish and am actually proud of myself for going for it (see Colo Marathon). This race probably gets put into the unremarkable category simply because it wasn't a goal race. I ran Bear Chase as a tune-up for Javelina Jundred and just didn't put much focus on training or celebrating afterward.
8 - Power of Four 50k (August 2014). Another somewhat unremarkable race due to its place in my line up as a training run. I felt like I ran a great race -- 6:32 for a 50k that boasts 8500 feet of climbing -- but my Ultra Signup ranking clearly shows that it wasn't my finest performance. The course was easier than the 8500 feet of climbing suggests because the downhill was mostly double track road and quite runnable. (Note: this race became a Sky Running event in 2015 and now contains 11K of vert on a modified course).
10 - Leadville 100 (August 2012). It wouldn't be hard to talk me into moving this one up the list. The race will always hold a special place as my first 100, but it was honestly a pretty average race. I sure do miss the rookie enthusiasm I showed that day (and in training).
Tier 1
1 - North Fork 50 mile (June 2014). This race was close to a no-brainer for this spot primarily because it was a break through race for me. It helped that I finished in 4th place and got a good Ultra Signup ranking (88%). But, really it came down this being the day I knew my new diet was working and that I had another level in ultra running to achieve. The second half of the race was incredibly strong and I finished with a personal best on 1K climb at mile 43 that I had done two other times in training.2 - Western States 100 (June 2015). It was very tempting to put this race as #1 because it is freaking Western States! As it is, the margin is close and my only other tier 1 race. Considering the pressure the lottery and high stakes put you under, I am incredibly happy with how this day went. I ran nearly the entire course and ran very patient, almost veteran race. My lone concern coming away from the race was my feet. I've had issues with my feet in 100s and it popped up late in this race. I fought through, but it leaves me feeling unsure about future 100s.
Tier 2
3 - Quad Rock 25 (May 2014). Again, the margin in this tier of races is oh-so-close. Quad Rock gets a small boost over the others because it was the first time I raced after going to LCHF and because the course was all wrong for me. I am not a strong technical runner and it is a very technical course. It also boasts 5500 feet of climbing in less than a marathon. This was also one of my highest Ultra SignUp ranks.4 - Leadville Trail Marathon (July 2011). It has been 4+ years now and I am remember less and less about that day. But, this race deserves a spot on this list for many reasons. First, it was my first ever trail race, containing a nasty 6500 feet of climbing at altitude in just under a marathon distance. I was a total rookie with no idea how I'd do on such a course and I ran strong, including a 25 min negative split (not that hard to do on this course, but still...). In many respects, this was also my first ultra. While not technically an ultra at only 26 miles, it runs like a 50k. Once again, this was one of my highest Ultra Signup ranks.
5 - Javelina Jundred 100k (October 2015). My highest overall Ultra Signup rank (90) but only my 5th best race. What gives? Well, unlike Quad Rock, this race suited my strengths. I run lots of roads and am quite comfortable on runnable courses (those under say 75 feet/mile of vertical). And, I have become a decent heat runner and worked quite a bit on it this summer. So, I am mostly disappointed with some of the amateur mistakes I made -- forgetting my cooling hat at home, not drinking enough at aid, not utilizing my arm sleeves with ice -- that led to a rather uncomfortable last lap and rather large positive split. I don't think I left more than 15 mins on the course that day, but I pride myself on running smart races and executing well. That said, I am still quite happy with my overall time and placement in the race and think it was a solid A- day. And, I am over the moon happy with how hard I battled on that last lap. I didn't have much to give, but I gave it my all.
Tier 3
6 - Colorado Marathon (May 2012). The margin between these remaining races is getting nearly indistinguishable. I have put such a focus on trail racing that this race almost gets lost. After converting to the trails almost full time, I didn't put much specificity into this race. In fact, I did a 32 mile long run just two weeks before the race. I finished in a bit over 3:13 and was running a very controlled and smooth 7:00 pace the last 6 miles -- on the harder half of the course. So many things went well for me on this day and this was possibly the strongest I've felt at the end of any race other than Quad Rock or Leadville Trail Marathon. The main reason I dock this race a little -- other than maybe just being 3+ years ago -- is that I felt like I had more to give. That was evident in my super strong finish. After blowing up at RnR Vegas six months earlier, I ran a very cautious first half and live with a small amount of regret. I wish I had gone harder and given myself a better chance at 3:10 and a BQ. That number seems impossibly far away right now and I wasted an opportunity to grab it. Not many 190 lb former football players run a 3:10.7 - Bear Chase 50k (September 2015). Another very high Ultra Signup result. I don't have a whole lot to say about this race, really. I went out hard and suffered a bit on the final lap (in the heat). I got a great overall finish and am actually proud of myself for going for it (see Colo Marathon). This race probably gets put into the unremarkable category simply because it wasn't a goal race. I ran Bear Chase as a tune-up for Javelina Jundred and just didn't put much focus on training or celebrating afterward.
8 - Power of Four 50k (August 2014). Another somewhat unremarkable race due to its place in my line up as a training run. I felt like I ran a great race -- 6:32 for a 50k that boasts 8500 feet of climbing -- but my Ultra Signup ranking clearly shows that it wasn't my finest performance. The course was easier than the 8500 feet of climbing suggests because the downhill was mostly double track road and quite runnable. (Note: this race became a Sky Running event in 2015 and now contains 11K of vert on a modified course).
Honorable Mention
9 - Bear 100 (September 2014). If I am honest, I really thought I had a sub-24 in me, even on this mountain course. I went for it and came up way short. The events that unfolded make this without question one of the most memorable nights of my life and I am still a little surprised I fought through and finished. I sure am glad I did because Western States doesn't happen without it.10 - Leadville 100 (August 2012). It wouldn't be hard to talk me into moving this one up the list. The race will always hold a special place as my first 100, but it was honestly a pretty average race. I sure do miss the rookie enthusiasm I showed that day (and in training).
Sunday, November 8, 2015
Javelina Jalloween Jundred ~ 2015 Race Report
Guest Post ~ Chuck Radford (a.k.a. Slim Shady)
"Will the real Slim Shady please stand up?"
After about 4 weeks of trying to cobble together training
runs on a bum knee, things started to take a turn for the better. I did,
however find myself still struggling with glute and ITB issues throughout
training as JJ was approaching at rapid rate. After only about one and a half
months of good training, JJ was here and it was time to race. I had many
conversations with AJ about the race as we both found ourselves with a
ho-hum/indifferent attitude going into the race. Not a great place to be
pre-race, but I was trying to muster up some excitement each day that final
week of taper. I set out what I thought was a “soft” goal of 17 hours hoping
that would give me some structure and drive to push, but not too hard. This was
a B-race after all.
AJ (100K), Jon (100M), Mike (100M), Heidi (Mike’s wife and
all our single crew) and Wyatt (100M) all headed out to Arizona the Friday
before the race. I knew from the start, race aside, this was going to be a fun
guys weekend …and it was. We checked into our hotel, grabbed some food, met
with our local Arizona friends (Steve and Thomas) and checked out the race
start/finish line all the while trying to stay relaxed and energized. Off to
bed, up at 3:30 and off we went to the race start Saturday morning.
Photo by Heidi Mizones
From left to right: Steve, AJ, Wyatt, Mike, Slim Shady, Jon
Loop One ~ 15.3 miles (31st place ~ 8:44 pace)
With a plan to go out around 9:45 pace, I quickly realized
everyone was going to push this first lap. I tried to get out front and once
there, had no problem letting some people go. However, when more and more
people were passing me, I started to get the itch and let the 9:45 pace go
opting for a responsible pace that wouldn’t end my race on the 2nd
lap. We were told by a friend that the first hill was significant even if it
was only around a 2% grade (child’s play for us Coloradoans right? Right?!?). When
I was headed up the hill, I barely even noticed it and wondered if I was even
on it. Later I would realize that hill was like Mt. Kilimanjaro and I would
soon die on it. Being a cool start and a beautiful sunrise, I tried to take in
the pretty scenery and kept my eye out for Javelinas (which I never saw one
throughout the day/night).
After finally making it to Jackass Junctions 8 miles in, we
were greeted by early aid station staff, who were clearly unprepared for the
onslaught of runners headed their way. However, they were upbeat and more than
willing to make you anything you wanted before heading out. Now that we hit
this middle aid station, it was almost all downhill into the first “turn”. I
found the grade nice and runnable and the trail non-technical, which made
holding back even harder, but I did my best. I was beginning to notice signs of
body ache …already!! This was not a good sign so early in the race and I
suddenly realized I was not as fresh as I should be this early in the race.
Loop Two ~ 30.6 miles (19th place ~ 8:53 pace)
After maneuvering through the awkward headquarters aid
station (also the “turn”), I saw Heidi (Mike’s wife) who was very willing to
help in any way. She gladly filled up my water bottles for me and mixed in some
Tailwind while I had a Vespa Jr. and an Epic Bar. I dawned a cap and
sunglasses, tossed my torch, thanked Heidi and was out of the aid station in
less than 3 minutes. My best transition of the day …as it should be.
As the Javelina course is set up for washing machine style loops,
I headed back out in the direction I just came. I was looking forward to seeing
my friends coming at me the opposite direction, as we’d encounter numerous
times through the day. I first saw Wyatt, then Jon and Mike and later would see
AJ and Steve who got an hour delayed start in the 100K race. Everyone looked happy,
healthy and fresh and all looked happy to be finishing up lap one.
I was immediately struck with how much harder heading back
up the gradual uphill was. It certainly didn’t seem that steep when we were
heading down, so it was certainly something to factor in later in the race with
more walk/running. At this point however, I was still fresh enough to run
almost all of the uphill back into Jackass Junction. I was also surprised with
how far that aid station felt. I expected to see it much sooner than I did, but
was happy once I got there. I started eating candied ginger at this aid station
and would do so all day in a pre-emptive strike to hold off any digestive
issues. I also refilled a bottle with Skratch (the only brew I drank the rest
of the day besides water). The next stretch was the longest between aid
stations and the sun was heating things up quickly.
Again, I was surprised with how long it felt between aid
stations and while I tried to be patient with it, it was just downright
frustrating. I was also getting pretty angry with my angry body (the first
angry part of my legs were my hip flexors which did NOT like the downhill at
all). I started considering some Tylenol, which seemed very early in the race
for, but wanted some relief. Hitting the short 2-mile uphill back into the turn
took a little pressure off of the hip flexors and I started to mentally prepare
for what I needed at the “turn”.
Dead heat of the day!!!
Photo by Sweet M Images
Photo by Sweet M Images
Loop Three ~ 45.9 miles (10th place ~ 10:02 pace)
Once again greeted by Heidi, she offered me a chair to sit
in, which I was tempted to deny, but like a dirty little pleasure, I took her
up on it. I once again fueled on Vespa and an Epic bar as Heidi refilled my
bottles. This time I took a little longer washing down my Epic bar and
complaining to Heidi about how hard these loops were starting to feel. Combined
with the heat, which was just starting to get worse and worse, I was finding
myself in a negative frame of mind and wondering how I was ever going to hit a 17-hour
finish. After about a 5-minute stop, I thanked Heidi again and went back in the
direction I just came …this time knowing exactly what I was in for.
The hill that I didn’t think was much of a hill was now
staring me straight in the face in the dead heat. I was already starting to
feel fatigued, hot and now my glutes were yelling at me. I made sure to drink
as many fluids as possible between the “turn” and the Coyote Camp aid station
so that I could top off before heading off on the long 6+ mile stretch between
aid stations. As I noted earlier, these stretches just seemed longer and longer
with each loop and this time, it felt no different. I knew I’d be seeing the
gang again soon, so I tried to keep my head up enough to see them without
tripping on a rock. Saw everyone in the same order and everyone seemed happy
still, which was great news.
Another stop at Jackass Junction meant I had some nice
downhill ahead of me and my glutes were about to find some relief. My drink
rate was really starting to increase and I was wasting water on this stretch as
I drenched my hat, buff and arm sleeves to stay cool. This would become the
pattern for the remainder of this loop and the next.
Mustering a smile in the face of HEAT!!!
Photo by Sweet M Images
Loop Four ~ 61.2 miles (10th Place ~ 10:30 pace)
Greeted again by Heidi and finding that great camping chair,
I continued to push the Vespa and my last Epic bar of the day. Heidi not only
filled my water bottles again, but also took my soaking wet Cabela's neck gaiter (I’m pretty
sure her response when grabbing it was “ewww, that’s so gross!!!”) and filled
it with ice. This turned out to be one of the best cooling options of the day
and worked great …for about 30 minutes.
I also had to wheel and deal with Heidi to give me some Tylenol …the
largest safe dose before heading out to take the edge off.
The heat was getting hotter (peak time of the day) and I
once again drank as much as possible before leaving the Rattlesnake Ranch aid
station. Once again faced with a long sustained hill, I knew I would be walking
much of it and found myself at times forgetting that I needed to run at least
some of it. I willed myself on and tried to adopt the “just get from aid station
to aid station” mentality. I crossed paths with the crew again and everyone was
definitely looking hot and a little drained.
After hitting and leaving Jackass Junction I was starting to
get more and more negative. I began to think about not only letting the 17-hour
finish go, but also entertained (if only intermittently and briefly) calling it
good at a 100K and ending my day. However, I talked myself through the little
meltdowns and reminded myself of the toll running takes on my family and myself
and knew I couldn’t call it quits especially when nothing was drastically wrong
(besides my piss poor attitude).
Now that my hip flexors and glutes had their turn, my IT
bands were starting to really tighten up, which was causing knee pain in my
left knee. My feet were hurting, but were protected by my Hoka Stinson so I planned
to stick with them through the race.
Unfortunately the Tylenol was not helping much and I wished I had an
I.V. drip of something stronger to keep me moving. Down the hill and back into
the “turn”.
Loop Five ~ 76.5 miles (10th place ~ 11:50 pace)
Completely drained and entertaining the idea more and more
of stopping at the 100K mark, I sat down once again and gratefully accepted
Heidi’s help again. She once again hooked me up with a nice ice buff bath. I
had another Vespa and rummaged through my nutrition bag for something to eat
since Epic bars were no longer appealing. I found an Electro-Bites Fuel bag, crunched
them into fine powder and ate them with some Skratch. I also took another bag
along with a LaraBar and put it in my waste pack. After carrying two handheld
bottles for hours, I wanted a break and headed out with my waste pack …not
before I tried to talk Heidi into more Tylenol only to be turned down (Heidi is
a P.A. so who was I to argue?).
Being the fifth loop, I was at least a little relieved to
know this would be the last long loop in this direction. It didn’t make the
monster hill or long stretch out to Jackass Junction any easier, but I was
accepting that the race was over the big hump and now into the final few legs.
I began to really struggle with my lack-luster performance today and couldn’t
figure out why I had no energy or pick up in my legs. I let negativity in and couldn’t push it back
out again. I was disappointed and finding it hard to stay positive or happy
about ANYTHING. Then, all of a sudden, I
passed my first 100 miler in many, many miles. I somehow glided right past him
and found a tiny bit of energy. Sadly, he passed me back again only 5 miles later
and ended up finishing 7 minutes overall ahead of me at the end of the race.
In and out of Jackass Junction and hating life all the way
back to the “turn”. It quickly dawned on me just how hard it is to race a 100
without a pacer. It was lonely out there and I found it hard to motivate myself
to do more running.
Loop Six ~ 92 miles (10th place ~ 12:52 pace)
It was now dark, headlamps were a must and we all started to
encounter runners with pacers clogging up the trails more with blinding lights.
I sat down again, had my last Vespa and nothing else with it. I refilled only
one bottle, had 2 more approved Tylenol from Heidi and changed my shoes into
the Altra Olympus just for a change. I then headed out again with my waste pack, this
time freeing up my hands completely.
Still down and still negative, I once again found solace in
the fact that this would be the last time I had to do this loop in this
direction. I was working (and working hard) towards the finish with every step
being on step closer to finding a shower, some pizza and bed. I started to get
a little punch drunk and began talking to the trail and myself. I would look at
a cactus and say, “that’s the last time I see YOU cactus”. I would then do the
same thing with a rock …and then a bush …and so on. This somehow made me giggle
and helped me pass the time. The heat finally let up a bit, not much, but enough
to ease some of that pain. Final long hill climbing back to Jackass Junction
where I was greeted by a blitzed M.C. who wouldn’t leave me alone as I was
trying to get through the aid station fast. He grabbed me, talked with heavy
alcohol on his breath not making any sense and then let me go. I yelled in
victory, “that’s the last time I see YOU Jackass Junction” to applause from
those that heard me.
This stretch to the next aid station felt the longest of the
day. Time was at a standstill and every step I took felt like a monumental step
that took me nowhere. I passed runners when I could, tried to be cordial and
tried not to get run over by runners and pacers from the opposite direction. I
looked down at my watch and knew that 17 hours would no longer be in play. I
struggled with what I could have done differently, but couldn’t find answers.
It no longer mattered in the grand scheme of things and just getting the finish
was the next goal.
My legs were tired and my focus was weak as I started to
kick rocks and stubbing toes. I swore I broke my big toe at one point
protesting loudly. My confidence was a little rocked and I began being more
cautious on the technical sections. I continued to trudge along working my way
to the “turn” for my final stop. Everything was aching, my thoughts on the race
were twisted, but my resolve to finish at this point was solid.
Loop Seven ~ 101.1 miles (11th place ~ 12:20 pace)
Greeted by AJ this time instead of Heidi, I sat down and
just shared a moment of silence with him. I think we both just caved to the
course and knew without even saying a word how hard this day turned out to be.
He said, “no fun huh?” to which I emphatically agreed. AJ and I are training
partners and have been through a lot together, so having him there at this
point was good mentally. There wasn’t much more to do at this point except
refill my bottle, get back out of the Olympus and back into my Stinson for more
protection and just get this race over with. With a little push from AJ, I was
off for the grand finale.
Up one last time through the technical trail and power
hiking as much as possible, I felt like I was never going to get to the half
way mark. I asked a few runners if it was ahead as I started to worry I missed
the turn. After finally making it there, I immediately heard two voices behind
me. I hoped they were runners still heading out on their 5th lap
…nope. A racer and his pacer came flying by me with such energy I was dumbstruck. I don’t often
get passed in races (sounds cocky …sorry), so for it to happen to me with 3
miles to go, I was upset. Knowing I couldn’t do anything about it at this
point, I just pressed on and tried to put in some strong final downhill miles.
The trail was amazing and for once during the race, I was happy. I was pushing
8 ½ minute miles, but they felt like sub-6 miles. I was pushing, but
undoubtedly looking like a lumbering cow. All of a sudden, I looked back and
saw a headlamp approaching. CRAP!! I immediately increased my speed and kept
looking back to see if I was being caught. I pushed as hard as I could all the
way into the finish and beat the guy …only to find out he didn’t do the laps
correctly and cut loop 6 short taking the cutoff …at least I found some final
motivation to get it over with. I was greeted by AJ and Steve, received my
buckle, took some photos and sat my butt in a chair. It was over, I finished and I was happy to be
done. Final time was 17:54, 11th
OA, 10th Men, 3rd Masters.
After a shower and cheering Wyatt and Jon on to their
finishes, we all celebrated with some food and beer before finally heading back
to the hotel for some uncomfortable sleep. That was a tough day, but we
rewarded ourselves amply with more “cheat” foods and beer than you can imagine
and all the while telling our own personal story from our race. We compared
notes, licked our wounds, confirmed our struggles and celebrated our finishes
together as a crew. It was perhaps the best “guys weekend” I’ve ever had!
Parting Thoughts
This race did NOT go the way I planned. I’ve had an
incredible 2 years of racing and really have nothing to complain about. Yet, I
find myself unsatisfied and frustrated with this race. Was I not fully
recovered from Leadville? Was my compressed training not enough to achieve my
goal? Was my heart never really in it and as a consequence neither was my
drive? Am I getting older and less competitive? Did I just have a bad day? I
find myself considering all of those things, but not finding an answer. Maybe I
don’t need an answer and maybe it shouldn’t matter, but for some reason it
does. It’s not the way I want to end the race season even though I killed
Leadville. It’s left a sour taste in my mouth, but each day it’s losing more
power over me and I’m just accepting it. I didn’t have a terrible race and even
on a bad day, I finished my fastest 100 in hard conditions. You can see the
decline in my paces through the day, but my place stayed steady, which means I
ran a controlled race throughout. I made memories with friends, tested my fortitude
and found persistence I wasn’t sure I had at one point. Will I run two 100’s
again in a year? Unlikely, but this year I did and I will remember this season
fondly.
If you haven’t seen the movie “Southpaw”, I highly recommend
it. There is a scene in the beginning
where Billy Hope (fighter) is sitting in a chair post fight, bleeding
everywhere and looking like death. His
wife asks him if he needs help getting his socks off and he simply says, “Nah,
I’ll just shower in them”. That captures
the way I feel after a 100 to a “T”.
You are broken down to pieces, bleeding and you don’t care if you shower
in your socks or not. You simply want to
find your way back to basic humanity after feeling like a dead dog.
The race was incredibly well organized, full of life and
energy and easy to self-crew and self-pace (although I would never prefer it
over having the support of family and friends).
I found the loop system incredibly difficult mentally to handle. The course
was beautiful (although not always especially when you’re dragging arse and
struggling) and the camaraderie on the course was fantastic. I doubt I’ll ever
run it again, but would certainly consider the 100K option. I would recommend
this race to anyone, but would certainly make sure they understand the
complexities of a loop course as well as how to deal with the heat.
I wish my family was with me during the race and that I
could have seen their supportive and beautiful faces. However, it was the vision
of those beautiful faces that helped me press on and never give up in that
race. Whether they were there in person or not, they were there in my heart and
in my thoughts. My wife and I shared a nice long deep conversation the next
day. My daughter flipped the script on me when I got home and complained about
my performance. Her cute voice told me in simple terms, “Daddy, you finished 100 miles and you finished 10th …that’s amazing”. Damn, I love these people to
death.
The reward for a hard earned finish.
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