Six Days in the Dome - 48 hour race

Running the 48 Hour at Six Days in the Dome was a new experience for me venturing into the unknown by running a 48 hour race around a 443 meter (0.2753 miles) indoor track at approximately 55F and 35% humidity. I arrived in Milwaukee on Thursday and decided to join other runners doing the race for dinner at Mo’s Irish Pub. Not knowing anyone very well I hesitated to go but figured I should get out of my antisocial comfort zone and would probably enjoy it. I was welcomed into the group and sat across the table from John Vonhof, author of Fixing Your Feet. Interestingly he has written a variety of books on various topics including the pastoral search process, book marketing and niche writing.  I mostly just listened to the interesting conversations and thinking to myself I am so out of my league with this type of event and no clue as to what I was doing. If I had not gone to the dinner, I would have been even more clueless since I picked up a few tips. There was also a 6 day race which started on Sunday.

The 48 hour and the first 24 hour race started at 9 am in the Pettit National Ice Center in Milwaukee. It was a little stressful getting there since the exit the GPS on my phone was telling me to take was closed but I found another route and arrived around 7:15 am. I set up a small table and chair with all my gear, not too far away since I knew I would be hauling the stuff out on Sunday and probably not feeling like walking too far. We had a prerace meeting and then started running clockwise at 9 am. The direction switched every 4 hours.  

I’m a numbers person so I will start off with my significant splits and a few other milestones including sleeping. None of my splits were PRs which is probably good considering I was doing the 48 hours.

Marathon – 4 hr 23 min, 10:02/mi (95 laps)

50K – 5 hr 15 min, 10:08/mi (113 laps)

50 mile – 8 hr 59 min, 10:46/mi (182 laps)

100K – 11 hr 39 min, 11:15/mi (226 laps)

100 mile – 22 hr 10 min, 13:18/mi (363 laps) – 4 hr 7 min rest (actual sleep 3 hours)

108 miles (393 laps) – 50 min nap

125 miles (454 laps) – 7 hr 40 min rest (actual sleep 6 hours)

129.78 miles (471 laps)

For the first 22 laps, I was running each lap in the 2:40s, about 9:41 pace. Then the pace crept down into the 2:30s to 2:40s until lap 93 (25.6 miles). This seemed like a conservative pace but probably should have taken walk breaks to relieve excessive leg tension. The track stressed the muscles the same running the same flat surface. It wasn’t as forgiving as I thought it might be. My pace gradually slowed and between 100K and 100 miles had significantly slowed with several extended breaks taken during that period. I watched in amazement as Olivier Leblond surpassed me in miles while taking regular walk breaks and making it look so easy. I noticed later that when they played faster beat songs, my pace picked up. Then people started showing their displeasure when certain slow songs were played and that was quickly remedied.

At 100 miles, I was in 8^th place overall and decided to get some rest. I wanted to make sure I hit 100 miles before going to bed to make sure I at least earned a buckle. There was always a chance I might not be able to continue after sleeping. I noticed when I took off my shoes and socks I had some small blisters between some toes (mainly both big toes and second toe) but decided not to worry. They weren’t causing any issues and I didn’t notice them when walking. When I came back over 4 hours later around 11 am, I was still in 8^th place. My legs had stiffened so I walked. I must have looked funny since several people asked if I was okay. My right upper calf and lower hamstring area above and below my knee felt stiff. Also, my legs, especially my right one, looked like it was retaining fluid in the lower leg, ankle and most likely foot. My legs looked sunburned in areas and burned to the touch. I’m assuming I had some edema. One guy suggested I take 800 mg of Ibuprofen and I could probably run again. I’m personally against doing that sort of thing. I figure if my body is hurting there is a reason and I need to take it easy.

When I went to bed I wore my Oofos low shoes. These are incredibly light shoes with some kind of foam that seriously absorbs impact and makes it easier to walk when your legs are trashed.  I changed into my running shoes when I got back to the track but since I couldn’t run I decided to change back into the Oofos after a few laps. Things felt much better and I was walking more fluidly. I think I would seriously purchase Oofos running shoes if they existed. They are amazing.  Mike and Laura Eriks were there and had started their 24 hour races. Mike gave me some Biofreeze and a guy next to his table gave me some Epsom lotion and those also seemed to help loosen up the calf/hamstring area on the right leg.

For the first 100 miles, I had worn a short sleeve shirt and felt hot at times but avoided removing my shirt. Now, back out on the track, I had to put on more closes including a long sleeve shirt and jacket to feel warm. I even wore gloves for a short while. It was good to be back out even though I was moving slowly.

There was lots of excitement since Zach Bitter was zooming around the track attempting to break the 100 mile world record. I came back out when he was 2 hours into it. The 100 mile split mat was right in front of where I was set up so I made sure I was on the track when he was ready to hit that point. I ended up being not too far behind and watched as he crossed the mat. But then he kept going since he was also going to break the 12 hour running record. When he hit 12 hours he had to stop and the track was measured off.

Regular meals were served and I had no trouble eating the food. I wasn’t drinking a lot when I came back out since I was moving so slowly. I noticed my hands/knuckles looked a little swollen but there are several causes so I wasn’t sure why. I decided it could be an electrolyte imbalance. An electrolyte imbalance can cause edema which I clearly had in my legs so I think I was short on electrolytes. I had some Pickle Juice but it was too late. I’m pretty sure this was the cause since several days after the race I have craved salty foods and water tasted funny for a couple days. I think perhaps calf compression sleeves might have been useful too even though I’ve never had a desire to try them before.

I decided once I got to 125 miles, I would go sleep. It was pretty clear to me that I was not going to run again. I wasn’t getting very far and moving slower, and I wanted to drive back on Sunday. The smart thing to do was sleep and I intended to do so for a long time. Then I would go back out and hopefully walk until the end. I stopped and went to bed at 11:30 pm, getting up several times to pee which was good to keep me from getting too stiff. The blisters from earlier were bigger but not causing any problems.

When I decided to get up it was almost 7 am so not a lot of time left but I had slept fairly well even with getting up several times. While I was sleeping, I moved from 8^th – 12^th place, being passed by several women that could walk circles around me and must not have slept. They were all very encouraging as they passed me. I felt like I was almost the slowest person the last 2 hours but not any slower than before I slept. I didn’t think I had time to get to 130 miles as slow as I was moving and not running. Mike and Laura were still going and Mike hit 100 miles at 22:17. Laura was in the 90s.  I picked up the pace a bit the last 6 loops and on what I thought would be my last one, I caught up to Laura thinking I would stop when she did. It looked like I had enough time for another loop so I told her I was going to try. I managed to actually run it in my Oofos, completing 129.78 miles.

My mileage was far short of what I thought I might end up running but I’m okay with it. Clearly, I am not cut out for 48 hours of this kind of event. No doubt my training probably wasn’t ideal either so probably expected. 24 hours would have been tolerable but 48 hours was almost insane. I didn’t have a clue or a plan for walk breaks or sleeping. I severely must have screwed up my electrolytes with the fluid retention in my legs and feet which is still not completely cleared up 4 days later. 1 – 2 days after was mostly the usual fatigue and by Wednesday I felt like a normal human being again with the brain fog finally lifting. The legs aren’t very sore but they definitely aren’t recovered at this point. There is still fatigue but nothing like before. I definitely enjoyed running most of the first 100 miles and the people I got move around the track with for the whole time. One starts to feel a sense of closeness with the runners after being with them for so long. The people who do these events are amazing and just because a track does not make it easy. It was a lot of fun. Would I do it again? Definitely not the 48 hour.

Summer 2019 Races

Last Runner Standing

I ran Last Runner Standing in Duluth on June 10. The climbs were challenging and I felt better than last year. I enjoyed using trekking poles for the first time and felt they were beneficial. It was fun having something else to do and pretending I had 4 legs. It also took some of the load off the legs climbing and descending if very steep. I didn't carry fluids since it was cool enough (high of 78F?). I decided to drop after I only had 1:30 remaining after reaching 15 loops (100K) and 2 more loops than last year. I was the last runner in my final 2 loops. We had 1 hour to finish the 4.167 mile loops.

100 runners started. By loop 12 (50 miles) - 20 remaining, loop 13 (54 miles) - 13 remaining, loops 14 and 15 (100K) - both 11 remaining. At this point 4 of us dropped and there were 7 remaining. The last runner standing had 129.17 miles - 31 races in 31 hours. The time on my Strava is moving time of 13 hours 17 minutes so I had a total of 1 hour 43 minutes to take care of everything I needed between loops.

I felt good and my new Topo shoes kept my feet very happy! No issues at all other than I just slowed down on this tough course. I went there to get hills and practice trekking poles for Never Summer 100K. Goals accomplished!

Dark2Dawn - 6 hours

Dark2 Dawn was a race that started at midnight on June 30 near St Louis at Indian Camp Creek in St Charles County. Each loop was approximately 6.7 miles. I ended up getting 5 loops, 32-33.5 miles which took me 6 hours and 20 seconds, placing 4th overall. It was extremely humid all night. Sam, Becky, and Laurel joined me for this event. My loop splits were pretty even overall. They almost weren't going to let me go out for the last loop. However, I think the race director realized how good I felt and I wasn't going to slow down so she said to go back out. I ran this race after after running 22 miles of hilly course the day before for Shawn's birthday run. I would definitely consider doing this race again.

Never Summer 100K

Never Summer 100k was an adventure that several of us from the Columbia area "ran" on July 27. It was a fun time being with everyone. I experienced altitude, elevation, mud, rain, hail and a little snow in a few places we ran. Mountain running is hard enough without the extras. Altitude is tough to train for in Missouri. Lots of climbing got the heart rate up! Straight up the mountain and no switchbacks. The views were nice. I’m glad I got the experience and met some awesome runners to run with during the day and night. It was a great experience but won't be subjecting myself to anything like this again. My time of 21:45 is almost double other 100ks I’ve run. It was more of a hike than a run.

Spring 2019 Races

Attempting to write some brief reports on some of my races so far this year. After 4 Fore 30 in December, I developed what I determined to be IT Band pain my right leg. This took awhile to figure out and I continued to mostly run through it. I took a week off and no improvement at all so I started to do exercises and slowly seen improvement. It was aggravated the most on trails. About 2 weeks after Syllamo (4 months from onset) it thankfully disappeared. I've had some good training and a few decent races.

Three Days of Syllamo
I decided to go back to Syllamo (March 16-17) to run just the 50 miler and 20K this year. I've run the 3 day stage race, 50K, 50 miler, and 20K 5 times with the last time being in 2015. I drove down on Friday after work and stayed with Jeff and Allan in a really nice cabin.

The course this year was the out and back. I ran the first half in 4:58 and the last have in 5:08 but it felt even slower. 10:06 - 8th place and the fastest I've run this version of the 50 miler but helps I didn't run the 50K the day before. I loved running it on fresh legs. Overall went okay but I had some trouble running some of the downhills due to the IT band issues I was having so I couldn’t push the downhill. Also, I didn’t feel great the last 10 miles which was likely lack of adequate hydration.

The weather was perfect and finally got some adequate sun that I’ve been missing all winter. It was my second slowest of the 6 times for the 20k. At some point later in the 20K, I was finally able to run downhill easier. I said after finishing the 50 miler it was going to be a scenic hike. I did end up running it about the same pace as the 50 miler. We had 6 runners from Columbia at the 50 miler and we all finished. It was a challenging day for all of us. We snapped a photo before the race.

Lion's Roar 24 hour

Lion’s Roar 24 hour (April 12-13) was truly an amazing experience to watch unfold from the moment Jason Conner envisioned this race to the very end. He pulled it off and it was a success. It was truly a community event held at Columbia Christian Academy on their 37 acre property. There were many local sponsors that added so much to this event. He sought input from the running community and followed through. The race raised an amazing amount of money for Welcome Home, an organization that assists at-risk veterans. The event also held a 6 hour and 12 hour option. 

There were so many amazing performances happening in 6, 12, and 24 hours by many friends and others setting distance PRs. The course was run on a mowed 2 mile path which amazingly came out 2 miles every time on my GPS. I kept pushing forward at whatever pace my body would allow and mostly running but many walk breaks. I had a couple rough loops in the 90s and my final 2 I was pretty much ready to be done. I ate something I shouldn’t have at 102 miles, came back up repeatedly but felt much better in a couple minutes and continued the next loop.

The support and encouragement by everyone was amazing. Without that I would not have completed 59 loops, 118 miles, a new distance PR and at 100 miles, 19:27, a new 100 mile PR. Hugh came and completed my last loop with me. Earlier in the day he made an appearance with AbbyDog who was happy to see me. Placed 1st overall and honored to be part of the top 3 with Sam and Joe, both amazing performances as well. Too many others to mention but some really impressive distances were reached. 

Trail of Four Winds 25K
This race took place on May 4 and was only 1 hour 15 minutes drive to Lake Ozark, Public Beach #2. I felt good the entire race and splits were very even. The trails were a bit muddy but I still felt like it was a very fast course. I finished the 25K (15.87 mi GPS) in 2:17:36, 10th overall and 2nd in age group. I enjoyed the opportunity to try out my fast trail running legs a little before Berryman. I've already signed up for next year's race.

Berryman
Survived my 12th Berryman (10th 50 miler there and 2 marathons). I was surprised I placed 2nd overall but I tend to place well when it is warmer. My first loop was 4:37 and second was 5:10. Very impressed by Joe Cooper's win and I expected he would do well. It was a tough day for everyone with a lot of challenges.I was not happy to be passing Sam Wells at Brazil Creek, 41 miles since I knew he wasn't doing well. I walked a bit before telling him I was going to see if I could run. I I passed 4 people in the 2nd loop, moving into 2nd the last 5 miles. I’ve never ended a race with so much salt on my skin and shorts. Observed others with the same. Guessing something to do with lack of heat acclimation. Otherwise, I felt pretty decent considering the heat. We started the race at 65 and it was supposed to get up to 85. I hydrated with Pickle Juice at each drop bag, plus a bottle of Body Armour for electrolytes. I ate 3 gels plus a Bonk bar and a mostly a little fruit at aid stations. I forgot to bring Body Glide but had no major problems. I credit the Vuori shorts and feet were the same as usual and heels and a few toes a little red. 

2018 Running and Racing Review

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

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.

Rock Bridge Revenge

I ran Rock Bridge Revenge 50k on October 5. Started out warm and humid in 70s and began raining about 21 miles. I ran first loop in 2:24 and second about 2:29. Overall 4:53:32 and about 30 sec course PR over my time in 2015. I placed 2nd overall. I enjoyed running quite a few miles with Jake G. It was a tough week since my mom died October 2nd but it was nice to enjoy the day.

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

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.

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).

Last Runner Standing - June 9

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.

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

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.