Running mileage was 2471.
Goals accomplished (or not accomplished) for 2018:
I set a goal to do 60 weight workouts and completed 32. I completed 33 last year. I had some consistent months but my racing schedule interferes with my consistency.
I made some progress on decluttering upstairs but still not done.
I definitely succeeded in having more fun both at work and running.
Ran 1 marathon and 9 ultras this year, 1 marathon less and 5 ultras more than last year. I didn't feel drained like I did for part of last year which I blame on my previous job. I finished the year feeling good although it would probably have been better to end the ultra season in October after Backyard rather than December although winning 4 Fore 30 was a good way to end the year.
Total Miles:
2018 - 2471
2017 - 2529
2016 - 2472
2015 - 2588
2014 - 2683 (yes, the exact same as 2012)
2013 - 2405
2012 - 2683
2011 - 2460
2010 - 2839
2009 - 2675
2008 – 3014
2007 – 2572
2006 – 1937
2005 – 2090
2004 - ~1000
Marathons (35 total):
2018 - (1) Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2017 - (2) Marathon to Marathon (BQ), Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2016 - (1) Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2015 - (1) Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2014 - (1) Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2013 - (2) Heart of America Marathon (BQ), Kansas City Marathon (BQ)
2012 - (2) Post Oak Trail Marathon, Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2011 - (2) Berryman Trail Marathon, Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2010 - (2) Go! St Louis Marathon (BQ), Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2009 - (5) Disney Marathon (BQ and Sub-3 hr), 3 Days of Syllamo (Trail), Boston Marathon (BQ and Sub-3 hr), Heart of America Marathon (BQ and Course PR), Louis & Clark Marathon (BQ and Sub-3 hr)
2008 - (4) Boston Marathon (BQ and PR), Laughing Out Loud Marathon, Heart of America Marathon (BQ), Twin Cities Marathon (BQ)
2007 - (5) Laughing Out Load, Berryman (First Trail Marathon - placed
4th), Heart of America (BQ), Baltimore Marathon (BQ), Bass Pro
Marathon
2006 - (3) Flying Pig (BQ), Heart of America (BQ, Chicago (BQ)
2005 - (3) Mad City, Heart of America (BQ), Portland (BQ)
2004 - (1) Heart of America
Ultramarathons (71 total):
2018 - (9) - Ozark Foothills 50K, Strolling Jim 40 mi, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Last Runner Standing 54 mi, Get Your Butt Kicked at Route 66 41.7 mi, Psycho Psummer Run Toto Run 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Big Dog's Backyard Ultra 112.5 mi, Fore for 30 88 mi
2017 - (4) - Berryman Trail 50 mi, Psycho Psummer Run Toto Run 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Big Dog's Backyard Ultra 100 mi
2016 - (10) - Psycho Wyco Winter 50K, Ozark Foothills 50K, Free State Trail 100K, Flatrock 100K, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Kettle Moraine 100 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Barkley Fall Classic 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Big Dog's Backyard Ultra 91.67 mi
2015 - (8) 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Mark Twain 50 mi, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Defiance 50K, Ozark Trail 100
2014 - (7) 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Mohican 100 mi, Barkley Fall Classic 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Big's Backyard Ultra 104 mi
2013 - (4) Land Between the Lakes 50 mi, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Leadville Trail 100 mi
2012 - (9) Post Oak 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Free State Trail 100K, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Kettle Moraine 100K (PR), Psycho Psummer 50K, Burning River 100 mi, Big Dog's Backyard Ultra 104 mi
2011 - (5) Psycho Wyco 50K, Grand Canyon 47 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Pumpkin Holler 100 mi (PR)
2010 - (6) Psycho Wyco 50K, Free State Trail 100K (PR), Kettle Moraine 100 mi (PR), Flatrock 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Ozark Trail 100 mi
2009 - (4) 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Psycho Wyco 50K, Berryman 50 mi, Q50 Ultramarathon 50K (PR)
2008 – (4) 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Berryman 50 mi, Rock Creek Trail 50K
2007 - (1) Hocking Hills Indian Run 60K
Number of each type of races for 2018:
100 mi+ - 1
88 mi - 1
50 mi+ - 2
40 mi+ - 2
50K - 3
Marathon – 1
Half Marathon - 3
10K - 1
5 mi - 1
4 mi - 1
5K - 3
I didn't count the Thursday night trail races.
Total running miles run in 19 races - 568.4 miles (2017 - 16 races – 326 mi)
States I ran marathons and ultras in 2018 (3): MN, MO, TN
All states I have run marathons and ultras (19): AR, AZ, CO, FL, IA, IL, LA, KS, KY, MA,MD, MN, MO, OH, OK, OR, TN, WA, WI
2015 PR in 4 mi
2014 PR in 4 mi
2013 PR in 50 mi
2012 PRs in 25K, 100K
2011 PRs in 4 mi, 10K, 100 mi
2010 PRs in 1 mi, 4 mi, 10 mi, half marathon, 3/4 marathon, 100K, 100 mi
2009 PRs in 5K, 25K, half marathon, and 50K
2008 PRs in 5K, 5 mi, 10K, 10 mi, marathon, 50K, 50 mi
2007 PRs in 5K, 4 mi, 8K, 5 mi, 10K, 10 mi
2006 PRs in 20K, half Marathon, and marathon
Goals for 2018 (same as 2017):
1. Continue weight lifting and try to get at least 60 workouts for the year (deadline Dec 31).
2. Declutter upstairs.
3. Have more fun.
Possible races planned for 2019:
January - Runner's Choice 20K
February - Nut Race 5K Taum Sauk 50K
March - Syllamo 50 mi, Sedalia Half Marathon
April - 24 Hour Lion's Roar
May - Trail of the Four Winds 25K, Berryman 50 mile
July - Parley Pratt Memorial Freedom Run, Never Summer 100K
August - Sandbagger 5 mi, Dome 48 Hour
September - Heart of America Marathon
October - Rock Bridge Revenge 50k, Backyard Ultra
November - Thanksgiving Day Pie Run 10K
December - Cheese and Sauerkraut 10 miler, 4 Fore 30
Monday, December 31, 2018
Monday, December 03, 2018
Fall 2018 Races
I got a little behind on race reports but here's a short recap on Rock Bridge Revenge and Big's Backyard Ultra. Then a more in depth report of 4 Fore 30 which was my first time running this event.
Big's Backyard Ultra
I ran 112 miles at Backyard Ultra which exceeded my expectations. I was hoping to beat my previous record of 104 miles. I decided to stop even though I had about 4 extra minutes. I was unsure if I could do another loop under 1 hour and wanted it to count. That is my lame excuse. For some reason I felt pretty disconnected this time. I was able to continue and not let my mind tell me to stop as soon as other years. Allan B. went with me and helped me after he timed out.
4 Fore 30
December 2 I ran 4 Fore 30 which was held in Camdenton, MO at the Lake Valley Golf Club. It was a last runner standing type event where at the top of each hour we started the 4 mile course with 1 hour to complete. Those that fail to do so or fail to show up at the start line at the top of the hour are eliminated. This race differed from Big’s Backyard Ultra in that it would end when one runner remained or 30 hours whichever came first where BBU can go on for days. If both started the 30th hour, the first to finish in the final hour is the winner. Proceeds from the race benefited Kids’ Harbor, a Lake-area based nonprofit that assists victims of child abuse.
I went to bed at 7:30 Friday night and left very early Saturday for the 6 am start and 80 minute drive. When I arrived I picked up my bib and set up my aid station near the start.
Thirty six runners, 26 men and 10 women toed the start line for this inaugural race. The 2 oldest were in their 60s and 2 youngest were under 17. Scott, one of the race directors ran the first loop with us to make sure we could see the markings in the dark due to the rain. It rained Friday night so there was water standing in a few places along the cart path where we ran. We passed the start line at mile 2. There was an aid station at the start and many runners set up their own as well or went back to their cars between loops since parking was close. The temperature at the start was in the upper 40s and soon in the 50s as the sun came out. It was a nice day so the golfers were out but we still got to use the entire 4 mile cart path and no issues with golf balls but there were a few minor incidents with walnuts that blew off some trees. Being on the cart path, there was plenty of time for me to complete the course in an hour and have 15+ minutes to rest, eat, etc, but I didn’t sleep.
The race aid station served potatoes, grilled cheese, quesadillas, rollups, chicken noodle soup, oranges, pork rinds and more. I did not try the pork rinds but I’m sure they would have been just fine. Margie, working the aid station much of the time would walk around offering grilled cheese or soup. When I passed at the 2 mile point, she would ask if I was okay or needed anything. Everyone was so helpful and it was appreciated. I brought a variety of food and ate grapes, bananas, divinity, pecan pie, protein shakes (a new thing for me during a race and worked well), pepperoni/cheese wraps (purchased and too dry with no condiments), cola, ginger ale, Sword, mixed nuts, Sweet Brown Sugar Sun Chips, guac, fruit and chia cups, Pickle Juice, and Muddy Buddies. I had more food than I needed and brought gels but consumed none of them as I am not that fond of them during these longer events. The little pecan pies are great since they pack 480 calories into a very small amount of food which is enough to keep me going a couple hours. Also, the pie and other sweets definitely stave off any bonk that has hit me when I didn’t use something with an infusion of sugar during an event this long.
The course had some hills which I walked. Some of the downhills were pretty steep and hard on the quads so I tried to be gentle going downhill. During the day it was quite windy at times but much of it worked out to be a tailwind depending on the direction I was headed at the time. Gradually it started to cool off and I had to change into a long sleeve shirt and eventually a wind breaker later when it was cold and windy.
During the first 12 hours (7 hours/loops being an ultra at 28 miles) several runners ended up completing their first ultra with some going even further than the first 12 hours. A few had never even completed a marathon and I think a lot of people went further than they originally expected. Our bib indicated how far we planned to go and there were 5 runners that had said they planned to go all the way (bibs in the 90s). Runners gradually dropped out and from the 12th – 17th hour, we had 9 runners still going strong. It got colder during the night and there was a gusty wind but I was plenty warm with a shirt, zip pullover, windbreaker, gloves, headband, and Vuori shorts that are a little longer and heavier than most I wear. They breathe well and I love them in any temperature. Earlier I had moved my car to where I had my aid station set up since there were fewer runners left. I sat in the car between loops to stay out of the wind and waited for the 3 minutes, 2 minute and 1 minute warning. When it was cold there was no need to get out until the 1 minute warning and still had over a half minute to wait to start again.
My quads were hurting at 64 miles. My left knee and right quad were hurting at 68 miles. The course was slanted in places and the steep downhills were taking their toll a little. I slowed down on purpose in loop 17 and 18. Starting the 18th hour, there were 4 runners remaining and then 3 runners remaining at 19th hour. In loop 19, I picked it up, nothing hurt and the change in how my legs felt was amazing. I think the issue was just muscles tightening up and pulling on knees and quads as I have experienced this before a few times.
Finally only 2 runners in the 20th hour which was sooner than I expected and things started to get real. I had met Chris, the other remaining runner after HOA where he finished right me and only 1 minute. We were also set up next to each other all day. I was a little stressed about the fact that if we went 30 hours, that the fastest person in the final loop was declared the winner. I’m not sure I can explain why but I really didn’t want to see it end this way. I would have preferred a cumulative time overall or maybe flip a coin over the thought of racing anyone on the final loop. I like him and wouldn’t want his race to end this way if I were to run it faster. If it ended with me losing the loop, I wouldn’t have like it either so I just didn’t see how I could feel good about winning or even losing in that way. However, this is what I signed up for so I needed a strategy to be ready if that 30th loop race took place. I had no doubt I could go 120 mile or 30 hours since the pace was easy for me. Chris still looked strong too. He had run slower earlier in the day but once his friends he was running with left, he picked up the pace. I decided I needed to slow down until the final loop and conserve my energy. I’ve had bursts of speed at the end of a few 100 milers before and probably could do the same after 116 miles if necessary.
I never got the chance to race him the final loop since shortly after we started loop 22, I noticed he had not passed me and then noticed I wasn’t seeing his light. I was afraid to turn around and look so kept running. Once I went around the first corner, I didn’t see his light and was a little sad thinking he must have turned around since shutting off his light would have been highly unlikely on this course in the dark. I picked up the pace a bit thinking this was likely my last loop. As I was approaching the start, I noticed his truck with the headlights on. Before I was a little in denial that he had dropped but this confirmed. I started to walk that direction and the race director’s pointed out that he was with them right where I needed to turn to complete the last 2 miles. He congratulated me and said he decided he wanted to go home. I told him he was a very strong runner but that I understood. I went back out and completed the last 2 miles in 43:38 counting the time stopped so about as fast as my first loop of the day.
I changed into some drier clothes and then went inside to receive my award goodies including an acrylic painting, shirts, and golf ball with 76 miles printed on it. They had golf balls for different milestones and it was the closest to 88 miles. I drove home before I started to get sleepy. Usually, after Big’s Backyard Ultra, I am ready to wind down for a few months with little interest in doing any more ultras. Allan had alerted me to this race months ago and I had kept in mind and then signed up on my birthday before the price went up. For the 6 weeks between BBU and 4 Fore 30, I didn’t run as much with my longest run at 16 miles and ended up with 2 weeks of 20-ish and 4 weeks of 40-ish miles. I took many days off due to the cold weather and decided that I would go and have fun. It was fun but I am now ready to hibernate for a few months.
Finally, I’d like to say that the race directors Alysia and Scott did an excellent job for this inaugural event and Margie (and others) did an excellent job taking care of everyone at the aid station. The friendly runners and caring volunteers are another reminder there is still good in this world.
4 mile loop splits:
1 – 42:53
2 – 42:39
3 – 41:30
4 – 43:12
5 – 40:57
6 – 41:43
7 – 41:21
8 – 41:09
9 – 41:22
10 – 43:00
11 – 44:56
12 – 45:15
13 – 45:56
14 – 47:07
15 – 48:47
16 – 45:32
17 – 49:38
18 – 50:13
19 – 43:13
20 – 50:33
21 – 47:41
22 – 43:38
Monday, October 08, 2018
Summer 2018 Races
Get Your Butt Kicked at Route 66 (6 hour)
July 14, I ran Get Your Butt Kicked at Route 66 (State Park, Eureka, Mo), a 6 - hr event that started at 6 pm. There were 2 different loops we could run . I ran 16, 2.4 mi loops and 9, 0.33 mi loops at the end for a total 41.7 mi. Overall about 8:30 pace. I ran 8 min for about first 26 miles and then gradually slowed. 2nd overall of 93 and 1st in Masters age group. I was hoping at least 42 miles so I guess I got my butt slightly kicked. We really got lucky with the weather. We had rain before the race and during which kept temperature in the 70s. Originally was supposed to be 91 at start. My first time running this format and I really enjoyed it. Tough to keep moving!
Psycho Psummer 50K
I ran my 11th Psycho 50k on July 21 - 7 Psummer and 4 winter. Temperature was not too bad - 68 - 86. I ran 5:10:11 - loops were 1:37:20, 1:44:10 and 1:47:40. My time was my second fastest for the summer version. Usually the splits are further apart when it gets in the 90s -100. I placed 8th overall of 71 finishers and 1st 40-49 AG.
Heart of America Marathon
I Finished my 15th Heart of America - 3:22, 3rd overall and my slowest HOA by 2 minutes.
Monday, July 02, 2018
Spring 2018 Races
I haven't been keeping this blog up to date with race reports so rather attempt to write 4 reports for races that are no longer fresh in my mind, I will give a few highlights.
Ozark Foothills 50K - April 7
I ran the Ozark Foothills 50k and had a good day! I ran 2 years ago in 5:11 and the course measured 30.9 miles. They changed the course slightly and this year my GPS measured 31.9 miles. I hit 50k under 5 hours but 31.9 in 5:08. First loop around 2:30 and second 2:38. It was warmer on second loop but still cold. The temperature was 25F at the start. Thankfully no snow on the ground like they were predicting. I placed 4th overall and 2nd in 40-49. However only age group awards for first place so didn't add to my plaque collection. Delicious BBQ, sides and cookies were served after the race. I consumed 2 bottles Sword and 5 gels. I didn’t stop at any aid station long enough to see what they had. The week prior to this race I ran 72 miles with 26.6 on the Wednesday before on the HOA loop. This week of the race ran 2 runs before race for a total of 9 miles. I guess that counted as a mini taper. I drove to the race with Allan B. and Lisa Wells. Becky H. and Allan also ran the 50K and Lisa ran the 25K.
Strolling Jim 41.2 Miler - May 5
The Strolling Jim is a road Ultramarathon and tough conditions with hills. There is also a marathon, half marathon, and 10K. This year was the 40th running so I thought a good time to go run it. It was a little warm but cloudy and threatening to rain. It was a very hilly course I seemed more difficult than HOA with the first 26 miles having 3 hills that were as bad or worse than HOA. It ended up raining later in the race (about 30 miles) until the finish. I walked many of the hills. I finished in under 6 hours in 5:54 so received the blue finishing shirt. Under 5 hours gets a gold shirt. I placed 10th overall out of 189 finishers and there were very few DNFs.
Berryman 50 miler - May 19
2 weeks later I ran the Berryman 50 miler. Our pre-race gathering Friday night was the fun part. I honestly cannot say the race was fun. It was a rough day for many. It was humid and warm but I’ve experienced worse. By the end I almost felt like I’d run 100 miles but only 52. I felt overheated from about mile 33-41. I was sure I was going to be over 10 hours for the first time. Then the wind picked up and temperature dropped. I started to feel better but worried about falling limbs. The pollen was stirred up and not pleasant to breathe and burned my eyes. Then it rained and I felt almost great. The Berryman flu lifted, the misery went away and I could run again. This rain was a welcome surprise and didn’t stop until I finished about 8 miles later. The finish banner was a little sad, hanging to one side as I crossed the finish in 9:57, a new Berryman personal worst time. A tough day for all. I was 6th overall and I took home the Masters award for the last time (new age category next year).
Three weeks later I ran Last Runner Standing in Duluth. This was a 4.16 mi loop where we had 1 hour to finish and started on the hour every hour. I went 13 loops, 54 miles and decided to stop. Probably could have gone another loop but was getting slower. It was a tough loop with steep uphills and a long steep downhill. I was impressed with how well so many people (likely from the Duluth area) ran the hills so well. I excelled on the steep downhills. Quite a few runners used trekking poles. My first loop was 46 min and my 13th was 57 min. Unlike Backyard Ultra, this race did not switch from trail to an easier road course at night. Race ended with 1 runner standing after 22 loops (91.67 mi). I never imagined it would go so long on this course. I really hope to run this one again next year.
Sunday, December 31, 2017
2017 Running and Racing Review
Running mileage was 2529.
Goals accomplished (or not accomplished) for 2017:
I set a goal to do 60 weight workouts and completed 33. I didn't realize how much I failed at this goal. I completed 59 last year.
I decluttered house and had a garage sale Still need to do declutter main floor.
Failed at having more fun due to circumstances beyond my control at work. Left Extension after 21 years and having more fun at work although future is uncertain at MU.
Ran 2 marathons and 4 ultras this year, 1 marathon more and 6 ultras less than last year. I was surprised to surpass mileage of last year since I was felt very drained part of the year. Ended the year feeling better.
Total Miles:
2017 - 2529
2016 - 2472
2015 - 2588
2014 - 2683 (yes, the exact same as 2012)
2013 - 2405
2012 - 2683
2011 - 2460
2010 - 2839
2009 - 2675
2008 – 3014
2007 – 2572
2006 – 1937
2005 – 2090
2004 - ~1000
Marathons (34 total):
2017 - (2) Marathon to Marathon (BQ), Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2016 - (1) Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2015 - (1) Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2014 - (1) Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2013 - (2) Heart of America Marathon (BQ), Kansas City Marathon (BQ)
2012 - (2) Post Oak Trail Marathon, Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2011 - (2) Berryman Trail Marathon, Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2010 - (2) Go! St Louis Marathon (BQ), Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2009 - (5) Disney Marathon (BQ and Sub-3 hr), 3 Days of Syllamo (Trail), Boston Marathon (BQ and Sub-3 hr), Heart of America Marathon (BQ and Course PR), Louis & Clark Marathon (BQ and Sub-3 hr)
2008 - (4) Boston Marathon (BQ and PR), Laughing Out Loud Marathon, Heart of America Marathon (BQ), Twin Cities Marathon (BQ)
2007 - (5) Laughing Out Load, Berryman (First Trail Marathon - placed
4th), Heart of America (BQ), Baltimore Marathon (BQ), Bass Pro
Marathon
2006 - (3) Flying Pig (BQ), Heart of America (BQ, Chicago (BQ)
2005 - (3) Mad City, Heart of America (BQ), Portland (BQ)
2004 - (1) Heart of America
Ultramarathons (62 total):
2017 - (4) - Berryman Trail 50 mi, Psycho Psummer Run Toto Run 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Big Dog's Backyard Ultra 100 mi
2016 - (10) - Psycho Wyco Winter 50K, Ozark Foothills 50K, Free State Trail 100K, Flatrock 100K, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Kettle Moraine 100 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Barkley Fall Classic 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Big Dog's Backyard Ultra 91.67 mi
2015 - (8) 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Mark Twain 50 mi, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Defiance 50K, Ozark Trail 100
2014 - (7) 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Mohican 100 mi, Barkley Fall Classic 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Big's Backyard Ultra 104 mi
2013 - (4) Land Between the Lakes 50 mi, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Leadville Trail 100 mi
2012 - (9) Post Oak 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Free State Trail 100K, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Kettle Moraine 100K (PR), Psycho Psummer 50K, Burning River 100 mi, Big Dog's Backyard Ultra 104 mi
2011 - (5) Psycho Wyco 50K, Grand Canyon 47 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Pumpkin Holler 100 mi (PR)
2010 - (6) Psycho Wyco 50K, Free State Trail 100K (PR), Kettle Moraine 100 mi (PR), Flatrock 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Ozark Trail 100 mi
2009 - (4) 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Psycho Wyco 50K, Berryman 50 mi, Q50 Ultramarathon 50K (PR)
2008 – (4) 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Berryman 50 mi, Rock Creek Trail 50K
2007 - (1) Hocking Hills Indian Run 60K
Number of each type of races for 2017:
100 mi - 1
100K - 0
50 mi - 1
50K - 2
Marathon – 2
Half Marathon - 2
10 mi - 1
10K - 2
4 mi - 1
5K - 3
1 mi - 1
I didn't count the Thursday night trail races this year but ran 9 of them.
Total running miles run in 16 races: 326 miles (2016 - 34 races – 645 mi)
States I ran marathons and ultras in 2017 (4): IA, KS, MO, TN
All states I have run marathons and ultras (19): AR, AZ, CO, FL, IA, IL, LA, KS, KY, MA,MD, MN, MO, OH, OK, OR, TN, WA, WI
2015 PR in 4 mi
2014 PR in 4 mi
2013 PR in 50 mi
2012 PRs in 25K, 100K
2011 PRs in 4 mi, 10K, 100 mi
2010 PRs in 1 mi, 4 mi, 10 mi, half marathon, 3/4 marathon, 100K, 100 mi
2009 PRs in 5K, 25K, half marathon, and 50K
2008 PRs in 5K, 5 mi, 10K, 10 mi, marathon, 50K, 50 mi
2007 PRs in 5K, 4 mi, 8K, 5 mi, 10K, 10 mi
2006 PRs in 20K, half Marathon, and marathon
Goals for 2017 (keeping it simple):
1. Continue weight lifting and try to get at least 60 workouts for the year (deadline Dec 31).
2. Declutter upstairs.
3. Have more fun.
Possible races planned for 2018:
February - Nut Race
March - Quivering Quads Half Marathon, Shamrox 5k, Sedalia Half Marathon
April - Mustang Stampede 5k
May - Strolling Jim 40 miler, Berryman 50 mile
July - Parley Pratt Memorial Freedom Run
August - Great Sandbagger 10k
September - Heart of America Marathon
October - Rock Bridge Revenge 50k, Backyard Ultra
November - Thanksgiving Day Pie Run 10K
December - Cheese & Sauerkraut 10 miler
Goals accomplished (or not accomplished) for 2017:
I set a goal to do 60 weight workouts and completed 33. I didn't realize how much I failed at this goal. I completed 59 last year.
I decluttered house and had a garage sale Still need to do declutter main floor.
Failed at having more fun due to circumstances beyond my control at work. Left Extension after 21 years and having more fun at work although future is uncertain at MU.
Ran 2 marathons and 4 ultras this year, 1 marathon more and 6 ultras less than last year. I was surprised to surpass mileage of last year since I was felt very drained part of the year. Ended the year feeling better.
Total Miles:
2017 - 2529
2016 - 2472
2015 - 2588
2014 - 2683 (yes, the exact same as 2012)
2013 - 2405
2012 - 2683
2011 - 2460
2010 - 2839
2009 - 2675
2008 – 3014
2007 – 2572
2006 – 1937
2005 – 2090
2004 - ~1000
Marathons (34 total):
2017 - (2) Marathon to Marathon (BQ), Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2016 - (1) Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2015 - (1) Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2014 - (1) Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2013 - (2) Heart of America Marathon (BQ), Kansas City Marathon (BQ)
2012 - (2) Post Oak Trail Marathon, Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2011 - (2) Berryman Trail Marathon, Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2010 - (2) Go! St Louis Marathon (BQ), Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2009 - (5) Disney Marathon (BQ and Sub-3 hr), 3 Days of Syllamo (Trail), Boston Marathon (BQ and Sub-3 hr), Heart of America Marathon (BQ and Course PR), Louis & Clark Marathon (BQ and Sub-3 hr)
2008 - (4) Boston Marathon (BQ and PR), Laughing Out Loud Marathon, Heart of America Marathon (BQ), Twin Cities Marathon (BQ)
2007 - (5) Laughing Out Load, Berryman (First Trail Marathon - placed
4th), Heart of America (BQ), Baltimore Marathon (BQ), Bass Pro
Marathon
2006 - (3) Flying Pig (BQ), Heart of America (BQ, Chicago (BQ)
2005 - (3) Mad City, Heart of America (BQ), Portland (BQ)
2004 - (1) Heart of America
Ultramarathons (62 total):
2017 - (4) - Berryman Trail 50 mi, Psycho Psummer Run Toto Run 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Big Dog's Backyard Ultra 100 mi
2016 - (10) - Psycho Wyco Winter 50K, Ozark Foothills 50K, Free State Trail 100K, Flatrock 100K, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Kettle Moraine 100 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Barkley Fall Classic 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Big Dog's Backyard Ultra 91.67 mi
2015 - (8) 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Mark Twain 50 mi, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Defiance 50K, Ozark Trail 100
2014 - (7) 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Mohican 100 mi, Barkley Fall Classic 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Big's Backyard Ultra 104 mi
2013 - (4) Land Between the Lakes 50 mi, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Leadville Trail 100 mi
2012 - (9) Post Oak 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Free State Trail 100K, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Kettle Moraine 100K (PR), Psycho Psummer 50K, Burning River 100 mi, Big Dog's Backyard Ultra 104 mi
2011 - (5) Psycho Wyco 50K, Grand Canyon 47 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Pumpkin Holler 100 mi (PR)
2010 - (6) Psycho Wyco 50K, Free State Trail 100K (PR), Kettle Moraine 100 mi (PR), Flatrock 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Ozark Trail 100 mi
2009 - (4) 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Psycho Wyco 50K, Berryman 50 mi, Q50 Ultramarathon 50K (PR)
2008 – (4) 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Berryman 50 mi, Rock Creek Trail 50K
2007 - (1) Hocking Hills Indian Run 60K
Number of each type of races for 2017:
100 mi - 1
100K - 0
50 mi - 1
50K - 2
Marathon – 2
Half Marathon - 2
10 mi - 1
10K - 2
4 mi - 1
5K - 3
1 mi - 1
I didn't count the Thursday night trail races this year but ran 9 of them.
Total running miles run in 16 races: 326 miles (2016 - 34 races – 645 mi)
States I ran marathons and ultras in 2017 (4): IA, KS, MO, TN
All states I have run marathons and ultras (19): AR, AZ, CO, FL, IA, IL, LA, KS, KY, MA,MD, MN, MO, OH, OK, OR, TN, WA, WI
2015 PR in 4 mi
2014 PR in 4 mi
2013 PR in 50 mi
2012 PRs in 25K, 100K
2011 PRs in 4 mi, 10K, 100 mi
2010 PRs in 1 mi, 4 mi, 10 mi, half marathon, 3/4 marathon, 100K, 100 mi
2009 PRs in 5K, 25K, half marathon, and 50K
2008 PRs in 5K, 5 mi, 10K, 10 mi, marathon, 50K, 50 mi
2007 PRs in 5K, 4 mi, 8K, 5 mi, 10K, 10 mi
2006 PRs in 20K, half Marathon, and marathon
Goals for 2017 (keeping it simple):
1. Continue weight lifting and try to get at least 60 workouts for the year (deadline Dec 31).
2. Declutter upstairs.
3. Have more fun.
Possible races planned for 2018:
February - Nut Race
March - Quivering Quads Half Marathon, Shamrox 5k, Sedalia Half Marathon
April - Mustang Stampede 5k
May - Strolling Jim 40 miler, Berryman 50 mile
July - Parley Pratt Memorial Freedom Run
August - Great Sandbagger 10k
September - Heart of America Marathon
October - Rock Bridge Revenge 50k, Backyard Ultra
November - Thanksgiving Day Pie Run 10K
December - Cheese & Sauerkraut 10 miler
Monday, November 06, 2017
2017 Races - Heart of America Marathon, Rock Bridge Revenge 50k, Big Dog Backyard Ultra, and FLATS Trail Half Marathon
Life got a little stressful in July so haven't updated this blog in a few months. Here's my attempt to catch up on the major races I've run.
Heart of America Marathon
I finished my 14th consecutive Heart America Marathon on September 4. It was likely the second warmest and also humid. I ran 3:14:00, placed 3rd overall, 1st 45 - 49 .age group I did not have great expectations this year. The course changed and was different at the beginning and the end. I think the end makes it a little easier since we now run on the trail rather than up Providence, Stadium, College, and Downtown. It finished in Reactor Park but there is a significant hill from the trail on Stadium to Carrie Francke Dr.
When I arrived at the start I realized I had forgotten my GPS. I was a little relieved and didn't worry about it. Instead I used the stop watch on my FitBit. I paced with Sankalp for first 12 miles and felt like I had a good feel for pace. I ran the 1st half 1:38:40, 2nd half 1:35:20 which was an unexpected surprise. At one point running with 8th, 9th, and 10th so moved up. Second wasn't too far ahead. First ran 3:02 and both 1st and 2nd were 22 years old which made me feel good. I certainly didn't feel 22 during this race but considering I didn't marathon train it went pretty well.
Rock Bridge Revenge 50k
On October 7 I ran Rock Bridge Revenge, my 6th time running the 50k. The trail was wet but not bad the first loop. The second loop, it rained and it got quite muddy in places. I think I was about 2:41 the first loop and 2:45 the second but the first loop is a little longer. I ran with a friend for 27 of the miles and then he dropped back. If he hadn't been behind me, I would have likely walked more. I placed 5th overall. I think about 50 started and a few dropped.
I hate to complain but I didn't feel good the entire race. My whole body felt achy and I hurt which had been the norm for awhile. I had a headache most of the run which disappeared after. I felt kind of flu-like. I had been running very little before the race. My training consisted mostly of Heart of America and pacing Steve at Superior 100 for 54 miles.
The race was my only run during the week. I ran 25, 30, and 37 in the previous weeks. I had a 2 hour massage on Tuesday before the race and that helped loosen me up a bit as my body was very tight. My upper back seized up a bit the morning of the race. A hot shower helped so it was not an issue during the race. I wondered if my body is telling me to stop running. Someone suggested magnesium. I found early signs of magnesium deficiency include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and weakness. I had all those except vomiting. I also read stress depletes magnesium levels and I've had no shortage of stress this year. I ended up going on a magnesium supplement and am happy to say that I think I am feeling much better. I am also eating a few foods that are a good source.
Big Dog Backyard Ultra
I had doubts about whether I should run this race but I started to feel better after the magnesium supplement. I was had a free CBC, testosterone and PSA test at Epoch and everything was okay. Unfortunately, they did not test for magnesium so don't know for sure if that was the issue. I decided to go run the race and have fun. I left on Friday, October 20 and the race started at 6:40 am on Saturday morning. A good explanation of the race is on Ultrasignup.
This was my 4th time running (2012, 2014, 2016, 2017) I missed 1 year and there was no race the other year. I survived 100 miles, 24 laps this year. I went 100 - 2012, 104 - 2014, and 92 last year. The race starts on the trail where we have 1 hour to finish a 4.1667 mi trail course (technical, some hills, rocks and roots). Then after 12 hours we switch to a road course (pretty easy). I had plenty of time (about 9 min) to spare my last lap on the road but decided to stop at 100 miles since I needed to get home. Overall felt pretty good but not sure my legs could have made another trail loop.
I can't say that I actually trained this time. However, I do well in this format with the breaks since I can run it fast enough to have 10 - 12 min after trail course and 10 - 17 min on the road. Off course you don't want to run it too fast or you won't last so my splits are always run easy. If it gets more and more difficult, you will run into trouble finishing within the hour. There were 14 people on the last road loop and 4 of us dropped at 100 miles. I was certainly happy to stop but one always wonders how far you can go if you run until you time out.
The temps were pretty warm when we started and it got up to 78 and turned cloudy so not a bad day. At night, it maybe got into the 50s and some wind. Perfect conditions for running. This year I tried something different for food and took a lot more sugar. Last year I dropped at 92 since I had been feeling nauseous for a few loops and it wasn't getting better. This year I used no gels although I took them with me, I never had a desire to consume them. Instead I had fruit, dates, pecan pie, pumpkin pie, pin wheels, soup and Sword drink. I think next time I will had real Coke. I had several Coke Zero Sugar for the caffeine boost but I should have used real Coke for the easy calories.
The race ended up going on for 59 hours, 245 miles! More details on the Facebook page.
FLATS Trail Half Marathon
The week after Backyard Ultra, I ran the F*L*A*T*S Trail Half Marathon. This was the 7th year for the race and my first year running it. I had to drive 90 miles north to Kirksville, MO and needed to arrive by 7:15 am to take a bus to the start since the race is point to point. I arrived about 7:05 and ended up being the last person to get on the first bus. Once we arrived at the start we were able to hang out in a boat rental store for about an hour and stay warm until the race started at 8:30 am. They took bags with our stuff we removed before the race back to the start. Temp was 33F. I wore 2 long sleeve shirts, one being my zip pullover that I could pull over my hands. I wore nothing on my head and many people had a hat and gloves. I was slightly too warm but not bad most of the time if in the wind.
The race started on the road for 1.5 miles so plenty of time to spread out. Once I secured my position I stayed about the same the entire race other than getting passed by a couple guys after the first half, passing one back and then passing another. The trail was marked every half mile and lots of aid stations but I carried my 20 ounce handheld filled with Sword and drank about 2/3. After running 100 miles last weekend, this was my first time running. My legs were definitely still tired but overall ran very well other than often didn't have much energy to power up the hills. The downhills and flats though felt pretty good. Trail was in good shape and very firm.
I felt like I paced very well. The first 1.5 was road so faster. The slower miles had hills.
1 7:54
2 7:50
3 8:07
4 8:21
5 8:40
:6 9:00
7 9:05
8 8:41
9 8:40
10 8:16
11 8:45
12 8:31
13 8:28
Overall, placed 20th of 176 runners and 7 of 22 in age group of 45 - 54. They offered $500 to break the course record for male and female and the 4th overall runner, a female, broke the record.
Post race was one of the best parties I've experienced. They had coffee, hot chocolate, gatorade, beer, fruit, pizza, cookies and I am sure I missed something. It was held in the old ski lodge (back when it was cold enough to have skiing in Kirksville). I skied once there when I was a student. There was also a live band and they had students from the Osteopathy school stretching the runners. I didn't have to wait very long since I finished so early and it was a good stretch. They also had 50% off shoes from somewhere and clearance clothing.
In our race bags we got a race mug, Kashi bar, head wrap (seems like many are giving these out the past 2 years). At the end we got a finisher's shirt. There were also race photos but most have not been posted yet. I spotted myself in one of the starting photos, near bottom right with blue shoes, wearing black, and my race number on my shorts. Definitely hoping I can do this race again. When I signed up it was only $40 and well worth it.
Heart of America Marathon
I finished my 14th consecutive Heart America Marathon on September 4. It was likely the second warmest and also humid. I ran 3:14:00, placed 3rd overall, 1st 45 - 49 .age group I did not have great expectations this year. The course changed and was different at the beginning and the end. I think the end makes it a little easier since we now run on the trail rather than up Providence, Stadium, College, and Downtown. It finished in Reactor Park but there is a significant hill from the trail on Stadium to Carrie Francke Dr.
When I arrived at the start I realized I had forgotten my GPS. I was a little relieved and didn't worry about it. Instead I used the stop watch on my FitBit. I paced with Sankalp for first 12 miles and felt like I had a good feel for pace. I ran the 1st half 1:38:40, 2nd half 1:35:20 which was an unexpected surprise. At one point running with 8th, 9th, and 10th so moved up. Second wasn't too far ahead. First ran 3:02 and both 1st and 2nd were 22 years old which made me feel good. I certainly didn't feel 22 during this race but considering I didn't marathon train it went pretty well.
Rock Bridge Revenge 50k
On October 7 I ran Rock Bridge Revenge, my 6th time running the 50k. The trail was wet but not bad the first loop. The second loop, it rained and it got quite muddy in places. I think I was about 2:41 the first loop and 2:45 the second but the first loop is a little longer. I ran with a friend for 27 of the miles and then he dropped back. If he hadn't been behind me, I would have likely walked more. I placed 5th overall. I think about 50 started and a few dropped.
I hate to complain but I didn't feel good the entire race. My whole body felt achy and I hurt which had been the norm for awhile. I had a headache most of the run which disappeared after. I felt kind of flu-like. I had been running very little before the race. My training consisted mostly of Heart of America and pacing Steve at Superior 100 for 54 miles.
The race was my only run during the week. I ran 25, 30, and 37 in the previous weeks. I had a 2 hour massage on Tuesday before the race and that helped loosen me up a bit as my body was very tight. My upper back seized up a bit the morning of the race. A hot shower helped so it was not an issue during the race. I wondered if my body is telling me to stop running. Someone suggested magnesium. I found early signs of magnesium deficiency include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and weakness. I had all those except vomiting. I also read stress depletes magnesium levels and I've had no shortage of stress this year. I ended up going on a magnesium supplement and am happy to say that I think I am feeling much better. I am also eating a few foods that are a good source.
Big Dog Backyard Ultra
I had doubts about whether I should run this race but I started to feel better after the magnesium supplement. I was had a free CBC, testosterone and PSA test at Epoch and everything was okay. Unfortunately, they did not test for magnesium so don't know for sure if that was the issue. I decided to go run the race and have fun. I left on Friday, October 20 and the race started at 6:40 am on Saturday morning. A good explanation of the race is on Ultrasignup.
This was my 4th time running (2012, 2014, 2016, 2017) I missed 1 year and there was no race the other year. I survived 100 miles, 24 laps this year. I went 100 - 2012, 104 - 2014, and 92 last year. The race starts on the trail where we have 1 hour to finish a 4.1667 mi trail course (technical, some hills, rocks and roots). Then after 12 hours we switch to a road course (pretty easy). I had plenty of time (about 9 min) to spare my last lap on the road but decided to stop at 100 miles since I needed to get home. Overall felt pretty good but not sure my legs could have made another trail loop.
I can't say that I actually trained this time. However, I do well in this format with the breaks since I can run it fast enough to have 10 - 12 min after trail course and 10 - 17 min on the road. Off course you don't want to run it too fast or you won't last so my splits are always run easy. If it gets more and more difficult, you will run into trouble finishing within the hour. There were 14 people on the last road loop and 4 of us dropped at 100 miles. I was certainly happy to stop but one always wonders how far you can go if you run until you time out.
The temps were pretty warm when we started and it got up to 78 and turned cloudy so not a bad day. At night, it maybe got into the 50s and some wind. Perfect conditions for running. This year I tried something different for food and took a lot more sugar. Last year I dropped at 92 since I had been feeling nauseous for a few loops and it wasn't getting better. This year I used no gels although I took them with me, I never had a desire to consume them. Instead I had fruit, dates, pecan pie, pumpkin pie, pin wheels, soup and Sword drink. I think next time I will had real Coke. I had several Coke Zero Sugar for the caffeine boost but I should have used real Coke for the easy calories.
The race ended up going on for 59 hours, 245 miles! More details on the Facebook page.
FLATS Trail Half Marathon
The week after Backyard Ultra, I ran the F*L*A*T*S Trail Half Marathon. This was the 7th year for the race and my first year running it. I had to drive 90 miles north to Kirksville, MO and needed to arrive by 7:15 am to take a bus to the start since the race is point to point. I arrived about 7:05 and ended up being the last person to get on the first bus. Once we arrived at the start we were able to hang out in a boat rental store for about an hour and stay warm until the race started at 8:30 am. They took bags with our stuff we removed before the race back to the start. Temp was 33F. I wore 2 long sleeve shirts, one being my zip pullover that I could pull over my hands. I wore nothing on my head and many people had a hat and gloves. I was slightly too warm but not bad most of the time if in the wind.
The race started on the road for 1.5 miles so plenty of time to spread out. Once I secured my position I stayed about the same the entire race other than getting passed by a couple guys after the first half, passing one back and then passing another. The trail was marked every half mile and lots of aid stations but I carried my 20 ounce handheld filled with Sword and drank about 2/3. After running 100 miles last weekend, this was my first time running. My legs were definitely still tired but overall ran very well other than often didn't have much energy to power up the hills. The downhills and flats though felt pretty good. Trail was in good shape and very firm.
I felt like I paced very well. The first 1.5 was road so faster. The slower miles had hills.
1 7:54
2 7:50
3 8:07
4 8:21
5 8:40
:6 9:00
7 9:05
8 8:41
9 8:40
10 8:16
11 8:45
12 8:31
13 8:28
Overall, placed 20th of 176 runners and 7 of 22 in age group of 45 - 54. They offered $500 to break the course record for male and female and the 4th overall runner, a female, broke the record.
Post race was one of the best parties I've experienced. They had coffee, hot chocolate, gatorade, beer, fruit, pizza, cookies and I am sure I missed something. It was held in the old ski lodge (back when it was cold enough to have skiing in Kirksville). I skied once there when I was a student. There was also a live band and they had students from the Osteopathy school stretching the runners. I didn't have to wait very long since I finished so early and it was a good stretch. They also had 50% off shoes from somewhere and clearance clothing.
In our race bags we got a race mug, Kashi bar, head wrap (seems like many are giving these out the past 2 years). At the end we got a finisher's shirt. There were also race photos but most have not been posted yet. I spotted myself in one of the starting photos, near bottom right with blue shoes, wearing black, and my race number on my shorts. Definitely hoping I can do this race again. When I signed up it was only $40 and well worth it.
Monday, July 24, 2017
2017 Psummer Psycho 50k
This race was my 60th ultramarathon and my 10th Psycho race (6 of them Psummer). Temperature was 83 at the start and 97 (111 heat index) by the time I finished. First loop felt blah, 2nd loop felt pretty good, and the last half of the 3rd loop was really tough as it heated up even more. Also, the last few miles of the loop have some tough hills.
Loop 1 - 1:47:42, 15th
Loop 2 - 1:52:25, 9th
Loop 3 - 2:06:01, 8th
Overall finished 5:46:10, 8th, 2nd in 40-49.
I was so ready to be done. My shorts were wet the entire run. About mile 14, during the second loop, just after I had my picture taken, I stumbled and slammed my left arm into a tree. My arm was fine but it pressed against my lower rib cage, knocking the wind out of me a little. That area is still quite sore and didn’t really notice how sore until after I was done. It hasn’t gotten worse so hopefully will get better.
Loop 1 - 1:47:42, 15th
Loop 2 - 1:52:25, 9th
Loop 3 - 2:06:01, 8th
Overall finished 5:46:10, 8th, 2nd in 40-49.
I was so ready to be done. My shorts were wet the entire run. About mile 14, during the second loop, just after I had my picture taken, I stumbled and slammed my left arm into a tree. My arm was fine but it pressed against my lower rib cage, knocking the wind out of me a little. That area is still quite sore and didn’t really notice how sore until after I was done. It hasn’t gotten worse so hopefully will get better.
Sunday, May 21, 2017
2017 Berryman Trail 50 miler
After a 7 month break from ultramarathons, Saturday I ran
my 8th Berryman 50 miler. Always a fun race and we had a large contingent of
local runners doing the 50 mi or marathon. After running 50 ultras, these
reports are actually getting harder for me to write but since I may want to
look back and remember, I will focus on the major highlights.
Conditions often are not ideal and this year was no
exception. Course was muddy in sections since it rained Friday night and during
some of the race. Often I am running alone for most of the race but this year
enjoyed the company of Tim, a runner from St Joseph for around 20 miles from
mile 11 - 31. I've seen him at many races but never have had an opportunity to
run with him for so long.
I found an older woman running the marathon lying on the
trail at about 41 miles. She yelled help before I even got to her. She told me
she had fallen, twisted her leg and couldn't get up. I asked if she wanted me
to move her off the trail before I went for help. She wasn't sure she could
move so I told her I would run as fast as I could to the next aid station, only
3/4 mile to get help. I notified them and went on my way. Tim came upon her
after and stayed until she got help. She had broken her femur and had to be
4-wheeled out and life-flighted.
Then 1 mile from the end found another older woman puking
on the trail. She was going to stop until she felt better. Nausea was getting
to me the last few miles since the sun came out later in the day.
I finished the first loop in 4:41 with Tim and second in
5:02 for my slowest Berryman ever 9:43. However, it was a nice surprise to
place second overall and win the Masters award. I was spent and don't think I
could have gone faster. Definitely slower if Tim hadn't been with me for 20
miles.
It was great having the support of everyone out there. It
is a special race since I know so many of the runners. Highlight of the day and
all my Berrymans was seeing Karen, a friend I run the trails with finish the 50
miler and be the second ever 60+ woman to finish and also a new record!
Sunday, January 01, 2017
2016 Running and Racing Review
Running mileage was 2472.
Goals accomplished (or not accomplished) for 2016:
I set a goal to do 50 weight workouts, 25 less than my goal last year when I failed to complete 75. I completed 59 (34 hours), 25 more than my big fail of 24 last year.
I set a goal to take 2 - 3 short breaks with 3 - 4 consecutive days of no running. I managed 9 breaks this year with 3 - 7 days of no running.
I completed garage decluttering and am almost done with basement. Still need to do the rest of the house.
I had hoped to use 7 weeks vacation before end of the year but only took 5.
Have more fun. Not sure that happened but paid down a lot of debt on the house and managed to run 10 ultras, 1 marathon, and a bunch of other races.
Total Miles:
2016 - 2472
2015 - 2588
2014 - 2683 (yes, the exact same as 2012)
2013 - 2405
2012 - 2683
2011 - 2460
2010 - 2839
2009 - 2675
2008 – 3014
2007 – 2572
2006 – 1937
2005 – 2090
2004 - ~1000
Marathons (32 total):
2016 - (1) Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2015 - (1) Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2014 - (1) Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2013 - (2) Heart of America Marathon (BQ), Kansas City Marathon (BQ)
2012 - (2) Post Oak Trail Marathon, Heart of America Marathon
2011 - (2) Berryman Trail Marathon, Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2010 - (2) Go! St Louis Marathon (BQ), Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2009 - (5) Disney Marathon (BQ and Sub-3 hr), 3 Days of Syllamo (Trail), Boston Marathon (BQ and Sub-3 hr), Heart of America Marathon (BQ and Course PR), Louis & Clark Marathon (BQ and Sub-3 hr)
2008 - (4) Boston Marathon (BQ and PR), Laughing Out Loud Marathon, Heart of America Marathon (BQ), Twin Cities Marathon (BQ)
2007 - (5) Laughing Out Load, Berryman (First Trail Marathon - placed
4th), Heart of America (BQ), Baltimore Marathon (BQ), Bass Pro
Marathon
2006 - (3) Flying Pig (BQ), Heart of America (BQ, Chicago (BQ)
2005 - (3) Mad City, Heart of America (BQ), Portland (BQ)
2004 - (1) Heart of America
Ultramarathons (58 total):
2016 - (10) - Psycho Wyco Winter 50K, Ozark Foothills 50K, Free State Trail 100K, Flatrock 100K, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Kettle Moraine 100 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Barkley Fall Classic 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Big Dog's Backyard Ultra 91.67 mi
2015 - (8) 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Mark Twain 50 mi, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Defiance 50K, Ozark Trail 100
2014 - (7) 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Mohican 100 mi, Barkley Fall Classic 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Big's Backyard Ultra 104 mi
2013 - (4) Land Between the Lakes 50 mi, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Leadville Trail 100 mi
2012 - (9) Post Oak 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Free State Trail 100K, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Kettle Moraine 100K (PR), Psycho Psummer 50K, Burning River 100 mi, Big Dog's Backyard Ultra 104 mi
2011 - (5) Psycho Wyco 50K, Grand Canyon 47 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Pumpkin Holler 100 mi (PR)
2010 - (6) Psycho Wyco 50K, Free State Trail 100K (PR), Kettle Moraine 100 mi (PR), Flatrock 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Ozark Trail 100 mi
2009 - (4) 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Psycho Wyco 50K, Berryman 50 mi, Q50 Ultramarathon 50K (PR)
2008 – (4) 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Berryman 50 mi, Rock Creek Trail 50K
2007 - (1) Hocking Hills Indian Run 60K
Number of each type of races for 2016:
100 mi - 1
91.67 mi - 1
100K - 2
50 mi - 1
50K - 5
Marathon – 1
Half Marathon - 1
10 mi - 1
10K - 5
4 mi - 5
5K - 11
12 are Thursday night trail races - 17 total free races.
Total running miles run in 34 races: 645 miles (2015 - 32 races – 519 mi)
States I ran marathons and ultras in 2016 (4): KS, MO, TN, WI
All states I have run marathons and ultras (18): AR, AZ, CO, FL, IL, LA, KS, KY, MA,MD, MN, MO, OH, OK, OR, TN, WA, WI
2015 PR in 4 mi
2014 PR in 4 mi
2013 PR in 50 mi
2012 PRs in 25K, 100K
2011 PRs in 4 mi, 10K, 100 mi
2010 PRs in 1 mi, 4 mi, 10 mi, half marathon, 3/4 marathon, 100K, 100 mi
2009 PRs in 5K, 25K, half marathon, and 50K
2008 PRs in 5K, 5 mi, 10K, 10 mi, marathon, 50K, 50 mi
2007 PRs in 5K, 4 mi, 8K, 5 mi, 10K, 10 mi
2006 PRs in 20K, half Marathon, and marathon
Goals for 2017 (keeping it simple):
1. Continue weight lifting and try to get at least 60 workouts for the year (deadline Dec 31).
2. Declutter upstairs and have garage sale.
3. Have more fun.
Possible races planned for 2017:
February - Nut Race 5K
March - St Patrick's Day 5K, Sedalia Half Marathon
April - Mustang Stampede 5K
May - Berryman Trail 50 miler
June - Marathon to Marathon
July - Parley Pratt 4 mi
August - Great Sandbagger 10K
September - Heart of America Marathon, Barkley Classic 50K
October – Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, F.L.A.T.S. Half Marathon
November - Thanksgiving Day Pie Run 10K
December - Cheese and Sauerkraut 10 miler
Goals accomplished (or not accomplished) for 2016:
I set a goal to do 50 weight workouts, 25 less than my goal last year when I failed to complete 75. I completed 59 (34 hours), 25 more than my big fail of 24 last year.
I set a goal to take 2 - 3 short breaks with 3 - 4 consecutive days of no running. I managed 9 breaks this year with 3 - 7 days of no running.
I completed garage decluttering and am almost done with basement. Still need to do the rest of the house.
I had hoped to use 7 weeks vacation before end of the year but only took 5.
Have more fun. Not sure that happened but paid down a lot of debt on the house and managed to run 10 ultras, 1 marathon, and a bunch of other races.
Total Miles:
2016 - 2472
2015 - 2588
2014 - 2683 (yes, the exact same as 2012)
2013 - 2405
2012 - 2683
2011 - 2460
2010 - 2839
2009 - 2675
2008 – 3014
2007 – 2572
2006 – 1937
2005 – 2090
2004 - ~1000
Marathons (32 total):
2016 - (1) Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2015 - (1) Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2014 - (1) Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2013 - (2) Heart of America Marathon (BQ), Kansas City Marathon (BQ)
2012 - (2) Post Oak Trail Marathon, Heart of America Marathon
2011 - (2) Berryman Trail Marathon, Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2010 - (2) Go! St Louis Marathon (BQ), Heart of America Marathon (BQ)
2009 - (5) Disney Marathon (BQ and Sub-3 hr), 3 Days of Syllamo (Trail), Boston Marathon (BQ and Sub-3 hr), Heart of America Marathon (BQ and Course PR), Louis & Clark Marathon (BQ and Sub-3 hr)
2008 - (4) Boston Marathon (BQ and PR), Laughing Out Loud Marathon, Heart of America Marathon (BQ), Twin Cities Marathon (BQ)
2007 - (5) Laughing Out Load, Berryman (First Trail Marathon - placed
4th), Heart of America (BQ), Baltimore Marathon (BQ), Bass Pro
Marathon
2006 - (3) Flying Pig (BQ), Heart of America (BQ, Chicago (BQ)
2005 - (3) Mad City, Heart of America (BQ), Portland (BQ)
2004 - (1) Heart of America
Ultramarathons (58 total):
2016 - (10) - Psycho Wyco Winter 50K, Ozark Foothills 50K, Free State Trail 100K, Flatrock 100K, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Kettle Moraine 100 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Barkley Fall Classic 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Big Dog's Backyard Ultra 91.67 mi
2015 - (8) 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Mark Twain 50 mi, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Defiance 50K, Ozark Trail 100
2014 - (7) 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Mohican 100 mi, Barkley Fall Classic 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Big's Backyard Ultra 104 mi
2013 - (4) Land Between the Lakes 50 mi, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Leadville Trail 100 mi
2012 - (9) Post Oak 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Free State Trail 100K, Berryman Trail 50 mi, Kettle Moraine 100K (PR), Psycho Psummer 50K, Burning River 100 mi, Big Dog's Backyard Ultra 104 mi
2011 - (5) Psycho Wyco 50K, Grand Canyon 47 mi, Psycho Psummer 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Pumpkin Holler 100 mi (PR)
2010 - (6) Psycho Wyco 50K, Free State Trail 100K (PR), Kettle Moraine 100 mi (PR), Flatrock 50K, Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, Ozark Trail 100 mi
2009 - (4) 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Psycho Wyco 50K, Berryman 50 mi, Q50 Ultramarathon 50K (PR)
2008 – (4) 3 Days of Syllamo 50K, 3 Days of Syllamo 50 mi, Berryman 50 mi, Rock Creek Trail 50K
2007 - (1) Hocking Hills Indian Run 60K
Number of each type of races for 2016:
100 mi - 1
91.67 mi - 1
100K - 2
50 mi - 1
50K - 5
Marathon – 1
Half Marathon - 1
10 mi - 1
10K - 5
4 mi - 5
5K - 11
12 are Thursday night trail races - 17 total free races.
Total running miles run in 34 races: 645 miles (2015 - 32 races – 519 mi)
States I ran marathons and ultras in 2016 (4): KS, MO, TN, WI
All states I have run marathons and ultras (18): AR, AZ, CO, FL, IL, LA, KS, KY, MA,MD, MN, MO, OH, OK, OR, TN, WA, WI
2015 PR in 4 mi
2014 PR in 4 mi
2013 PR in 50 mi
2012 PRs in 25K, 100K
2011 PRs in 4 mi, 10K, 100 mi
2010 PRs in 1 mi, 4 mi, 10 mi, half marathon, 3/4 marathon, 100K, 100 mi
2009 PRs in 5K, 25K, half marathon, and 50K
2008 PRs in 5K, 5 mi, 10K, 10 mi, marathon, 50K, 50 mi
2007 PRs in 5K, 4 mi, 8K, 5 mi, 10K, 10 mi
2006 PRs in 20K, half Marathon, and marathon
Goals for 2017 (keeping it simple):
1. Continue weight lifting and try to get at least 60 workouts for the year (deadline Dec 31).
2. Declutter upstairs and have garage sale.
3. Have more fun.
Possible races planned for 2017:
February - Nut Race 5K
March - St Patrick's Day 5K, Sedalia Half Marathon
April - Mustang Stampede 5K
May - Berryman Trail 50 miler
June - Marathon to Marathon
July - Parley Pratt 4 mi
August - Great Sandbagger 10K
September - Heart of America Marathon, Barkley Classic 50K
October – Rock Bridge Revenge 50K, F.L.A.T.S. Half Marathon
November - Thanksgiving Day Pie Run 10K
December - Cheese and Sauerkraut 10 miler
Tuesday, October 18, 2016
2016 Big's Back Yard Ultra
Prerace:
Saturday I ran Big Dog's Back Yard Ultra for the 3rd time. For background info on this race, see my 2014 report where I did a pretty good job of explaining the race and why I enjoy it. I will say my training wasn't that great but I did run 9 ultras and 1 marathon this year so maybe all the racing counted for something. I even ran the same 3 races (Heart of America Marathon and Barkley Classic 50K in September, and Rock Bridge Revenge 50k in October) that I ran in 2014. I guess the races were my training. I did a better job with weight lifting over the summer and let my running slide and went into this race at 160+ lbs, 8 lbs more than usual but felt good. I also scrapped my training plan for the year back in March when I was training for Kettle Morraine 100 miler. It was actually nice not having the stress of a training plan for a change.
I arrived on Friday, setting up camp at race headquarters, talking awhile with a few runners I knew, and then going out to dinner alone since I thought I would try to get to bed a little early since I hadn't slept enough during the week. When I got back, it was a little noisy, but I took a couple Benadryl and managed to get to sleep and it soon quieted down. They had the race clock counting down and I kept hearing someone reminding everyone only so many hours to the start.
Trail hours:
We started at 6:45 am to give us more daylight on the last trail loop of the day. 46 starters and the race has a limit of 50 runners but they took a few more. We started off on the first loop. To my surprise, I finished the first loop first in 48:35 which was maybe reasonable other than this year it was definitely warmer. It was in the 60s at the start and got into the 80s later. The trail loops were pretty routine, running at the same times, and walking the same hills each loop. The second loop was 47:36 and 3 through 11 were 48- 50 so all very consistent. Some good conversation on some loops and I ran others mostly alone. I remember loop 6 feeling not that great but the rest went better.
I kept up on nutrition and watched my feet since my trail shoes have been rubbing my heels with the new version of Innov8 - 295s. I alternated pairs and socks for awhile and used the lubrication on my heels. Later I noticed they felt fine so quit alternating shoes. For nutrition I had Sword, Huma gels, and some solid foods. I really wasn't feeling the gels for some reason so didn't use as many as I planned. I wasn't feeling my best on lap 10 so decided to go a bit slower on 11 and hopefully speed up on 12 when it would get dark. I finished 11 about 2 minutes slower than the previous and felt better. I think the temps cooling off helped too.
I am excited on the 12th trail loop since it is the last one until we switch to the road which I knew would be easier and temps would continue to cool off. We were told to take a light but my plan was to go faster and hopefully beat the darkness. I start off fast on the out and back road section before we come back and get on the trail. The guy ahead of me let me go around him as I started on the trail and I knew I was the first runner. I was feeling good although still walking most hills. At some point into my loop Marc Laveson flies around me. He's an amazing athlete and I watch him climb the hills with ease. He ended up running this lap, 10 min faster than he had been running all day. It was getting dark but I never had to turn on my light. I ended up running my fastest lap in 46:42, finishing second.
Road hours:
At 6:45 pm, we started our first lap (out and back) on the road with 17 runners remaining. I was actually happy to be on the road after 12 hours on the same trail. The road is easier even after running for 12 hours on the trail. I was running with some runners I hadn't had the opportunity to run next to on the trail. She was an excellent runner that seemed to run the laps with ease with plenty of time remaining. I had heard her talking throughout the day although I hadn't run near her that much. She was very talkative and outgoing and seemed to have a lot of energy for as warm as it felt. In case anyone from the race is reading and heard anything I will just mention the conversation turned south (big misunderstanding on her part) but we have since come to an understanding that I think I can live with.
The full moon was very bright and I barley used my headlamp all night other than to check the time. I ran the first road lap in 38:08 which was way faster than I should have but the adrenaline was pumping from the conversation I had at beginning of this lap. When I finished the lap someone said I must really like the road since I finished the lap so fast. I then explained to the race timers what had happened and they confirmed I was in the right.
On the next loop, I decided to calm down a bit and kind of hung behind several runners at first. I never mentioned the incident to anyone else still in the race since I didn't feel it would be appropriate. I finally ended up running ahead and I was probably still not calm since I ran that lap in 39:58. I didn't have a firm plan going into this but felt these were too fast so I decided to try to find someone the next loop to stay behind.
For laps 15 and 16, I ran with Case Cantrell, good conversation, perfect pace for me and it really helped my mood and helped me focus on running smarter. We took walk breaks and ended up running 45s. For laps 17 - 19, I ran pretty well between 42 - 46. I was getting to the point where it was more difficult to drink the Sword and gels didn't sound good. I was able to eat some vegetable soup between laps and had a brat which I have done before and had no problems. I started feeling worse (low energy), and finished lap 20 in 48 but still not unreasonable. Before lap 21 I was feeling pretty yucky. I was eating some yogurt and before I finished it, it felt like it was going to come up so I stopped. I was feeling a little cool so I put on my jacket for the next lap thinking it might help with my tummy issues. I forgot to grab my bottle. My jacket was too hot so I had to remove and carry it. It was just as well I didn't carry the bottle since I doubt I wasn't sure I could keep it down. I ended up walking most of the last mile although some of it was uphill so would have walked anyway. I just walked more than usual.
I ran 51:50 but was seriously thinking about quitting due to how I was feeling. I decided to try one more effort to save my nutrition assuming that was the problem. I had some more soup and it went down okay. I also had some Sword. I got up with the 2 minute warning sounded for lap 22. I hoped I could finish it and feel better. Unfortunately, I felt worse, walked even more and finished 55:49. I didn't like the direction things were going so waited and went up when the 1 minute warning and turned in my timing chip. Marcy timed out and the other female runner quit too so now there were just 4 guys remaining. I waited until Marcy got back and talked a bit with Case until I said I needed to go lie down.
It took me forever to get out one of my contacts. When I finally got to sleep, it was around 5:30 am and I woke up just before 7 am as the still final 4 headed out on their first trail loop of the day. In the end the winner ended up going 29 hours after everyone else either dropped or timed out. It would have been nice to get 100 miles but I just wasn't having fun anymore after mile 22. I had said before the race I wouldn't drop unless I timed out I guess how I was feeling persuaded myself to stop.
I tied 5th for most number of miles at 91.67 and placing 6th overall with my total time of 17:30:27.
Thursday, September 22, 2016
2016 Psycho Psummer, Heart of America, and Barkley Fall Classic
Psycho Psummer 50K
I ran Psycho Psummer in July. Starting temperature was 81F and finish 91F. It didn't make to 99 as predicted but the heat index was likely higher. I finished in 5:41:38, 7th of 50. 80 or so registered and some dropped to the 20 miler. I ran the loops in 1:47, 1:55, and 1:58. It could have been worse with the heat. I felt amazing the entire run which is unusual at this distance in the heat. I drank 12 - 20 oz bottles so stayed well hydrated. It sounds like a lot but apparently was needed. Also drank pickle juice. Kaci Lickteig, 2016 Western States winner was the first female and overall race winner in 4:23 - 1:25, 1:28, 1:29. I had the second most even splits. Hugh ran 10 on the road and walked/ran 14 including walking 1 loop of the course! We had lunch at Subway and shopped at Trader Joes before heading home.
Finished my 13th consecutive HOA on Labor Day. Placed 5th overall and second in age group. This was pretty good with my crappy my crappy training, weight gain and lack of motivation to put in the necessary miles. I felt pretty good except for first 4 and last 2 miles. 3 hr 16 min so same time as last year. I guess I will continue to try to keep up my streak but a long way to go to break the record. Another guy still running has 17 years and the record is 25 years. Maybe I should try running at least 1 other marathon for practice earlier in the year or doing some actual marathon training might be good too.
I won't go into too much detail since part of the fun of this race is a venture into the unknown. If you want to know more check out the race website, Facebook group, and this brief report by a fellow runner that covers the major points of the race.
Fortunately, I survived the Barkley Fall Classic (50k, lol) at Frozen Head State Park in TN, only 12 days after HOA. The race isn't dangerous but it is extremely difficult due to the severe climbs. I ran the 2014 version of the race and decided to go back this year since last year Laz added some additional challenges and running through the old prison.
The only things pleasant about this experience were the rugged, yet beautiful and peaceful scenery, the intermittent cool breezes and the satisfaction of finishing what at times felt like the impossible. I kept moving forward and that included going nearly straight up at times, hopefully finding footing or something to pull myself up to get a few more inches. The challenges: going uphill for long stretches, severe vertical challenges, briars, going downhill for long stretches, feeling lost at times even though with people, humidity, heat, running out of fluids up Chimney Top, muscle spasms 2 different times going up, and nearly complete exhaustion with high heart rate going up the severe long climbs. I’m sure I’m forgetting something. At least I wasn’t stung multiple times by bees like some people. Also no GPS and no gel packets allowed for this race. I only fell once but it was due to my own clumsiness.
I wore my old malfunctioning Fitbit which somehow died (for good I think) 2.5 hours from the end being fully charged and ate 4 Lara bars. Sword was served on the course which I regularly use so I didn’t need to carry much of anything other than the 2 water bottles which was a challenge at times since I needed to have at least one hand free at times to pull myself up. Once I got to mile 22 where Laz punches our bib (I think the first time, I’ve left blood on my race bib), we have the option of finishing a “marathon” or continuing up the last climb, Chimney top which I think is 3 miles of climbing. I had 5.5 hours to cutoff of 13 hr 20 min to finish so plenty of time. I caught up to 2 guys on the way up, one that I knew from previous races, and the other had been at some of the same race but didn’t know him. We enjoyed each other’s company and stuck together until the end finishing in 10 hr 31 min. I placed 22nd.
From Laz: 550 runners were accepted for entry to the BFC. 226 of those either withdrew, or never showed up at all. Of the 324 who answered the starting cigarette; 73 dropped out 132 either chose, or were relegated to the marathon... and 119 took home a croix de barque. 37% of the starters.
If you want the ultimate challenge and a race that will create doubt in your mind that you can finish, then this is the event for you. Runners can even opt for the "marathon" if they don't reach the 22 mile point by 9.5 hours or they can also choose to do they marathon if they've had enough. There's no reason to be scared of this race if you do your best to prepare. Also, with over 300 starters, you probably won't ever be alone. Another fun feature is that there were 7 checkpoints where we had to get our bibs punched. The punches spelled "I escaped" (the P was free).
Heart of America Marathon
Finished my 13th consecutive HOA on Labor Day. Placed 5th overall and second in age group. This was pretty good with my crappy my crappy training, weight gain and lack of motivation to put in the necessary miles. I felt pretty good except for first 4 and last 2 miles. 3 hr 16 min so same time as last year. I guess I will continue to try to keep up my streak but a long way to go to break the record. Another guy still running has 17 years and the record is 25 years. Maybe I should try running at least 1 other marathon for practice earlier in the year or doing some actual marathon training might be good too.
Barkley Fall Classic 50K
Fortunately, I survived the Barkley Fall Classic (50k, lol) at Frozen Head State Park in TN, only 12 days after HOA. The race isn't dangerous but it is extremely difficult due to the severe climbs. I ran the 2014 version of the race and decided to go back this year since last year Laz added some additional challenges and running through the old prison.
The only things pleasant about this experience were the rugged, yet beautiful and peaceful scenery, the intermittent cool breezes and the satisfaction of finishing what at times felt like the impossible. I kept moving forward and that included going nearly straight up at times, hopefully finding footing or something to pull myself up to get a few more inches. The challenges: going uphill for long stretches, severe vertical challenges, briars, going downhill for long stretches, feeling lost at times even though with people, humidity, heat, running out of fluids up Chimney Top, muscle spasms 2 different times going up, and nearly complete exhaustion with high heart rate going up the severe long climbs. I’m sure I’m forgetting something. At least I wasn’t stung multiple times by bees like some people. Also no GPS and no gel packets allowed for this race. I only fell once but it was due to my own clumsiness.
I wore my old malfunctioning Fitbit which somehow died (for good I think) 2.5 hours from the end being fully charged and ate 4 Lara bars. Sword was served on the course which I regularly use so I didn’t need to carry much of anything other than the 2 water bottles which was a challenge at times since I needed to have at least one hand free at times to pull myself up. Once I got to mile 22 where Laz punches our bib (I think the first time, I’ve left blood on my race bib), we have the option of finishing a “marathon” or continuing up the last climb, Chimney top which I think is 3 miles of climbing. I had 5.5 hours to cutoff of 13 hr 20 min to finish so plenty of time. I caught up to 2 guys on the way up, one that I knew from previous races, and the other had been at some of the same race but didn’t know him. We enjoyed each other’s company and stuck together until the end finishing in 10 hr 31 min. I placed 22nd.
From Laz: 550 runners were accepted for entry to the BFC. 226 of those either withdrew, or never showed up at all. Of the 324 who answered the starting cigarette; 73 dropped out 132 either chose, or were relegated to the marathon... and 119 took home a croix de barque. 37% of the starters.
If you want the ultimate challenge and a race that will create doubt in your mind that you can finish, then this is the event for you. Runners can even opt for the "marathon" if they don't reach the 22 mile point by 9.5 hours or they can also choose to do they marathon if they've had enough. There's no reason to be scared of this race if you do your best to prepare. Also, with over 300 starters, you probably won't ever be alone. Another fun feature is that there were 7 checkpoints where we had to get our bibs punched. The punches spelled "I escaped" (the P was free).
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