It seemed as though I was just unpacking my bags from going up to Lutsen to run the 50K as I was packing my bags to go up to Lake Vermilion to spend the Holiday weekend at the cabin.
Last week flew by. Tyler had tennis sectionals and wrapped up the season by earning a distinguished academic achievement award, lettering in tennis and named to the all conference academic team. Go Tyler!
After the tennis season was finished on Tuesday, he began baseball on Wednesday. Troy is playing baseball too and getting them to practices and games is always a challenge. We always manage to get them where they need to be and on time one way or another.
We packed up and headed to Lake Vermilion for the long weekend. My Mom and Dad and my sister Laurie, her husband Tim and son Lukas were also at the cabin for the weekend.
We had a wonderful time, the weather was beautiful! Sunday Tim and Steve shuttled Laurie, Mom, Topaz and I over to the shoreline. There is not a road into our cabin so our transportation back and forth is via boat. Tim has a huge Lund, I was referring to it as Tim's Taxi. I'm sure with gas at 5.50 a gallon he wanted to charge fare too; but he didn't. Topaz and I walked with Mom and Laurie for 30 minutes until they turned back for their ride to the cabin. Topaz and I headed off for 20 miles of hilly gravel road running along Lake Vermilion. The ditches were all full of water, Topaz had plenty of water. The Vermilion River was full as well. I've never seen so many boaters getting onto the river as I ran past. There was one hill on Crane Lake Road that was over a mile long. Up up up we ran until it finally leveled out. I figured I might as well take advantage of it and get is some hill repeats. After running close to 2 hours I turned back toward the lodge to pick up Tim's Taxi. As I was running toward the lodge I saw Mom coming back to fetch us. Sure enough, our ride was waiting.
I asked if anyone would be interested in hiking the Vermilion Gorge, in Crane Lake. It's about a 40 minute drive from Cook where we park our cars. Everyone was up for it. We hadn't hiked the Gorge since Troy was 4, Tyler was 8. Laurie had never hiked it. We all piled into Dad's truck and headed out. The sky was becoming dark and looked like a storm, we hoped we wouldn't get caught in it.
As we piled out of the truck the heat blasted us. It was warm, sunny, calm. Amazing! We looked for the trail head and were on our way. Beautiful. This trail resembles the Superior Hiking Trail. Rocks, roots, waterfalls, climbing, climbing, climbing.
We began with sweatshirts, they were soon removed. Pretty soon Tyler was pulling off his shirt and Troy and Lukas were dipping their hats into the lake. It was hot! Crazy!
We hiked to the gorge and oohed and ahhed. Troy wanted to climb a bit more. He climbed a huge rock formation and I tried to follow. By carrying three sweatshirts, a water bottle and a camera I was slower than he. He was sure to let me know! To get down from the rock I had to just slide on my butt. I couldn't find any of the footholds I used to get up.
Dad let out his shrill whistle. We knew they were heading back toward the trail head. Troy and I hiked a bit more, then headed back in their direction. "Mom, let's run". Guess what? I smiled. The biggest smile was upon my face. "OK, Troy, let's go!" He ran along that trail like a pro. Pretty soon I couldn't see him. He was way ahead of me. I finally caught up to him as he was dipping his hat into the lake.
We climbed back into the truck, back into Cook and back to the cabin. What a great afternoon!
Today as we headed out it was raining, a good day for driving in the car.
This week I'll run the trail in the evening with Topaz, tread mill intervals in the AM, a stair steeper workout, lift legs, get in another hill session Saturday and run Sunday at Afton with the gang. I need to take it easy the following week as FANS is June 7. Amazing. Summer is just about here. 4 days left of school. Crazy.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Monday, May 19, 2008
Sunday, May 18, 2008
A Slice of Heaven..on Earth
If there is such a thing as heaven, for me, it would resemble the Superior Hiking Trail. Tranquil, beautiful, majestic. I feel at home on the Superior Hiking Trial; I feel at peace. Even during the daunting mid morning hours on day two of the 100 mile race, the SHT is still a wonderful place to be.
This year Tyler and Troy decided to come along with me. I was thrilled! We always have a good time in Lutsen, the boys favorite thing is to climb around Temperance and hike the rocks of Grand Marais. We covered both of those activities after the Superior 50K, which I ran yesterday.
I had no goals for the 50K. I wanted to enjoy the run, build the 50K into my weekly training. No dietary changes, no taper (which I usually don't do anymore anyway). I decided to eat as I would during a training run: Hammer Heed and Hammergel, coffee and skim milk for breakfast.
After hiking Temperance River, we checked into our townhome early Friday afternoon. There was plenty of time to swim, hot tub and play ping pong. Time to fix a fabulous steak salad for me, ravioli for the boys. We were all in our bedrooms by 930, reading our books.
The sun rises early in Lutsen. I'm not kidding! Our townhome was all windows facing Moose Mountain. I didn't pull any shades before we went to bed. At 430 the sun was streaming in. I thought I overslept! Nope. Just bright.
I ground my Caribou Mocha Java, fixed my coffee in my french press, added a bit of splenda and skim and was ready for my race. I walked up to the race start, checked in and we were off!
I don't like getting stuck in the back of the group any longer. I begin to feel claustrophobic when I can't pass someone on the trail. We begin the race on a wide road, about a mile to the trail. I went out in the front of the pack, figuring I could slow whenever necessary.
I fell into a group of triathletes that were training for an Ironman in Canada. It was fun to listen to them talk of their different training regimens. There was much talk about bikes and how much they paid for them. Good grief.
The trail was beautiful, soft, covered with leaves. There wasn't a whole lot of mud, some wild flowers were just beginning to bud. I saw a snowman that someone had built! Yes, there was snow. The snowman even had little stick arms. I laughed.
I came into Oberg with a dry bottle. I was carrying a handheld of Heed and had a dozen Hammergel's in my Race Ready shorts. I was doing a gel every 30 minutes, drinking 24 oz of Heed roughly every hour.
There were a ton of downed trees. Some I climbed over, some I crawled under. One damn near killed me as I was straddled upon it and I FELL OFF. I was glad nobody was around to laugh at me. I had to laugh at myself.
By the time I reached the turn around I was sweating heavily. The guy at the turn around told me I looked like I was having the most fun and that I was smiling the biggest smile. Of course I am! It's a great day in the woods, I said. He said not all were feeling that way. Whatever. I enjoyed every mile. I took off my shirt and ran down as fast as I could. Then the cold breeze came along and back on went my shirt. It was like that all day. Hot and Cold. I was expecting 45F and rain, so 45-55 and sun was A OK with me.
By the time I made it back to Oberg I felt like I was flying. I hadn't looked at my watch yet, I was just running what felt good. I told myself I would look at my watch at the river crossing, right before I would get off of the trail.
I saw Tom and Nancy hiking, making their way off the trail. I looked at my watch. Holy shit! I'm going to PR this course. 5:49. I can break 6 hours. I saw Amy and Jason finishing up the 25K. I ran as fast as I could. A PR on a training run. Sweet stuff.
I saw Matt and yelled PR! Woohoo! Into the finish line I ran, 5:56. 4th Master. Amazing, and feeling so good. Tyler and Troy were at the finish waiting for me. It was great to see them there. Troy was freezing, so Tyler drove him back to the townhome and came back to pick me up.
After a shower I went back for the award ceremony and saw all of the gang. Everyone had a great time on the SHT. Gretchen and Mike gave the place winners heavy blaze orange microfiber hooded fleece sweatshirts! Troy wore mine last night on the shoreline. I also took home a medal, tshirt and a bandanna.
Back to pick up the boys and off to Grand Marais to rock climb. The shoreline of Lake Superior is incredible here. We climbed and ran and played in the rocks. We pointed out a tree that my Dad nearly punctured his eyeball with two years ago. The branch is broken off where it scratched him and broke off, the tree is still standing there.
We met Alicia, Larry, Kate, Tom, Nancy, Jo, Amy, Jason and Keith at Sven and Ollies for pizza; I had a double chicken ceaser salad. We arrived back to Caribou in time for one more swim and a game of ping pong. We were back in bed by 930 again last night.
This morning I was treated to the SHT solo. What a treat. I filled two bottles of HEED and a handful of gels and headed out the door at 5AM for Moose Mountain. It was cold and windy, but the sun was bright.
The trail was loud with birds waking and squirrels and chipmunks. They sounded like huge beasts in the woods! Nobody was out there. I had a great workout. My goal was 5 MM's. I did 10. I felt more tired after 10 Moose Mountains' than I did after the 50K yesterday!
I ran back to the townhome before the boys awoke. As I began to fry bacon and prepare pancakes they came alive.
What a great weekend :)
This year Tyler and Troy decided to come along with me. I was thrilled! We always have a good time in Lutsen, the boys favorite thing is to climb around Temperance and hike the rocks of Grand Marais. We covered both of those activities after the Superior 50K, which I ran yesterday.
I had no goals for the 50K. I wanted to enjoy the run, build the 50K into my weekly training. No dietary changes, no taper (which I usually don't do anymore anyway). I decided to eat as I would during a training run: Hammer Heed and Hammergel, coffee and skim milk for breakfast.
After hiking Temperance River, we checked into our townhome early Friday afternoon. There was plenty of time to swim, hot tub and play ping pong. Time to fix a fabulous steak salad for me, ravioli for the boys. We were all in our bedrooms by 930, reading our books.
The sun rises early in Lutsen. I'm not kidding! Our townhome was all windows facing Moose Mountain. I didn't pull any shades before we went to bed. At 430 the sun was streaming in. I thought I overslept! Nope. Just bright.
I ground my Caribou Mocha Java, fixed my coffee in my french press, added a bit of splenda and skim and was ready for my race. I walked up to the race start, checked in and we were off!
I don't like getting stuck in the back of the group any longer. I begin to feel claustrophobic when I can't pass someone on the trail. We begin the race on a wide road, about a mile to the trail. I went out in the front of the pack, figuring I could slow whenever necessary.
I fell into a group of triathletes that were training for an Ironman in Canada. It was fun to listen to them talk of their different training regimens. There was much talk about bikes and how much they paid for them. Good grief.
The trail was beautiful, soft, covered with leaves. There wasn't a whole lot of mud, some wild flowers were just beginning to bud. I saw a snowman that someone had built! Yes, there was snow. The snowman even had little stick arms. I laughed.
I came into Oberg with a dry bottle. I was carrying a handheld of Heed and had a dozen Hammergel's in my Race Ready shorts. I was doing a gel every 30 minutes, drinking 24 oz of Heed roughly every hour.
There were a ton of downed trees. Some I climbed over, some I crawled under. One damn near killed me as I was straddled upon it and I FELL OFF. I was glad nobody was around to laugh at me. I had to laugh at myself.
By the time I reached the turn around I was sweating heavily. The guy at the turn around told me I looked like I was having the most fun and that I was smiling the biggest smile. Of course I am! It's a great day in the woods, I said. He said not all were feeling that way. Whatever. I enjoyed every mile. I took off my shirt and ran down as fast as I could. Then the cold breeze came along and back on went my shirt. It was like that all day. Hot and Cold. I was expecting 45F and rain, so 45-55 and sun was A OK with me.
By the time I made it back to Oberg I felt like I was flying. I hadn't looked at my watch yet, I was just running what felt good. I told myself I would look at my watch at the river crossing, right before I would get off of the trail.
I saw Tom and Nancy hiking, making their way off the trail. I looked at my watch. Holy shit! I'm going to PR this course. 5:49. I can break 6 hours. I saw Amy and Jason finishing up the 25K. I ran as fast as I could. A PR on a training run. Sweet stuff.
I saw Matt and yelled PR! Woohoo! Into the finish line I ran, 5:56. 4th Master. Amazing, and feeling so good. Tyler and Troy were at the finish waiting for me. It was great to see them there. Troy was freezing, so Tyler drove him back to the townhome and came back to pick me up.
After a shower I went back for the award ceremony and saw all of the gang. Everyone had a great time on the SHT. Gretchen and Mike gave the place winners heavy blaze orange microfiber hooded fleece sweatshirts! Troy wore mine last night on the shoreline. I also took home a medal, tshirt and a bandanna.
Back to pick up the boys and off to Grand Marais to rock climb. The shoreline of Lake Superior is incredible here. We climbed and ran and played in the rocks. We pointed out a tree that my Dad nearly punctured his eyeball with two years ago. The branch is broken off where it scratched him and broke off, the tree is still standing there.
We met Alicia, Larry, Kate, Tom, Nancy, Jo, Amy, Jason and Keith at Sven and Ollies for pizza; I had a double chicken ceaser salad. We arrived back to Caribou in time for one more swim and a game of ping pong. We were back in bed by 930 again last night.
This morning I was treated to the SHT solo. What a treat. I filled two bottles of HEED and a handful of gels and headed out the door at 5AM for Moose Mountain. It was cold and windy, but the sun was bright.
The trail was loud with birds waking and squirrels and chipmunks. They sounded like huge beasts in the woods! Nobody was out there. I had a great workout. My goal was 5 MM's. I did 10. I felt more tired after 10 Moose Mountains' than I did after the 50K yesterday!
I ran back to the townhome before the boys awoke. As I began to fry bacon and prepare pancakes they came alive.
What a great weekend :)
Friday, May 16, 2008
To Graduate as a Runner
The last session of my first stint as coaching for the Woman's Beginning Run Class was held on Wednesday. Six weeks ago most of these women had never run before, and quite frankly, were not sure that they could. Six weeks later they all emerged as runners.
It's been wonderful to watch the progress, to watch the fear rise and fall from their eyes, to watch them grow.
We had a beautiful evening to run. After I led the gals in the warm up and stretches many of them began to come up to me, one at a time, and voice the reasons why they didn't think they could run for 45 minutes. One gal had a sore knee, one was having trouble breathing, another had a side ache, another had a cold..they all had a reason .. a fear that was holding them back. I told each one to do whatever they could. That 6 weeks ago they didn't think they could run for 8 minutes..they now could..they could run for 10 minutes..they could run!
We began by walking for one minute, then ran for 15 x 3. They were awesome. They all ran the full session. When they began to have difficulty, I began to talk..talk about the night sections on the Superior 100, talk about the hunch I feel in my shoulders as I the whole race consists of the one square foot of flash light in front of the trail as I put one foot in front of the other..talk about the beavers in the dam and 2 in the morning, talk about the Superior 50K that I will be running tomorrow. My talking took their minds off of their fears.
After our run everyone was all smiles. I handed out a sheet showing continued running programs to get them to a 10K, a 1/2 marathon, etc. Some will stick with it, I know it! We finished with juice, grapes and pretzels and lots of thank yous and good lucks!
Today Topaz and I headed out for the trail for an 8 mile run. Topaz's last until Sunday. The boys and I are getting ready to head out to Lutsen. Tyler didn't want to miss his first hour math class, now they are packing. I'm looking forward to spending the weekend with them. Lots of driving/talking time.
Superior 50K is tomorrow. A super fun race! I'll leave my watch behind and just have a joyful run in the woods. No stress. Sunday will be hill repeats up Moose Mountain. Love it!
It's been wonderful to watch the progress, to watch the fear rise and fall from their eyes, to watch them grow.
We had a beautiful evening to run. After I led the gals in the warm up and stretches many of them began to come up to me, one at a time, and voice the reasons why they didn't think they could run for 45 minutes. One gal had a sore knee, one was having trouble breathing, another had a side ache, another had a cold..they all had a reason .. a fear that was holding them back. I told each one to do whatever they could. That 6 weeks ago they didn't think they could run for 8 minutes..they now could..they could run for 10 minutes..they could run!
We began by walking for one minute, then ran for 15 x 3. They were awesome. They all ran the full session. When they began to have difficulty, I began to talk..talk about the night sections on the Superior 100, talk about the hunch I feel in my shoulders as I the whole race consists of the one square foot of flash light in front of the trail as I put one foot in front of the other..talk about the beavers in the dam and 2 in the morning, talk about the Superior 50K that I will be running tomorrow. My talking took their minds off of their fears.
After our run everyone was all smiles. I handed out a sheet showing continued running programs to get them to a 10K, a 1/2 marathon, etc. Some will stick with it, I know it! We finished with juice, grapes and pretzels and lots of thank yous and good lucks!
Today Topaz and I headed out for the trail for an 8 mile run. Topaz's last until Sunday. The boys and I are getting ready to head out to Lutsen. Tyler didn't want to miss his first hour math class, now they are packing. I'm looking forward to spending the weekend with them. Lots of driving/talking time.
Superior 50K is tomorrow. A super fun race! I'll leave my watch behind and just have a joyful run in the woods. No stress. Sunday will be hill repeats up Moose Mountain. Love it!
Sunday, May 11, 2008
A Happy Mother
When I woke up this morning I wasn't sure if it was still raining out. It had rained all day yesterday and all last night. I woke at 430 so Topaz and I could be on the trail by 515 for a 30 mile run.
I looked at the thermometer. 31F. Good grief. Out came the gloves and ear band. The jacket. The long sleeved shirt. I was sure that as the miles ticked off and the sun rose the day would become pleasant.
I was correct! The sunrise was stunning. Pinks, purples and blues as the big red sun rose from the ground. I stood on top of Blue Hill to watch the show. Beautiful. As soon as the sun rose the small birds began to sing, the frogs began to ribbit, the sand hill cranes made their crazy bad violin sound and the geese began to honk. A wilderness symphony. I love the outdoors. I love to run in the early morning sunrise.
Not one other person was out on the trail this morning, my footprints were the only ones visible, making craters in the damp sandy areas. I love the solitude. The peace and quiet, being alone. That is one of the reasons I love long distance running. Time to myself; to think, to meditate, to sooth my soul.
The ponds are all full, some overfull, spilling into the low lands. Topaz had plenty of areas to immerse himself, go for a swim and a drink.
I ran 30 miles..I believe Topaz probably ran 40, as he runs out from me, and back, making big circles around me. He didn't get a run yesterday as I was at the ski hill. His body was a quiver with unleashed, pent up energy. He let it loose.
By the time we were finished the gloves and ear band were removed, the long sleeved shirt was off and I was warm. 5 hours goes by very quickly when I spend it doing what I love.
Back home to a shower and then Happy Mothers Day! Steve and the boys presented me with a Honey Crisp Apple tree! My favorite apple. When they are in season I eat a few a day, and then complain that they are the most expensive apple in the store. Now I have my own tree!
Tyler and Troy then offered to help me weed out my perennial gardens and to get them ready for the season. I was stunned. Help me weed? I took full advantage and we weeded and planted for 3 hours, without one complaint! We had 3 hours to talk without being interupped by telephone or television or friends. 3 hours that I will always treasure; talking about school, friends, sports and anything else that came up. 3 hours of garden work was never more enjoyable.
A hard leg day at the gym..some grocery shopping and taking it easy tonight, watching the Twins. A very good day.
Happy Mother's Day to all of the Mom's out there!
I looked at the thermometer. 31F. Good grief. Out came the gloves and ear band. The jacket. The long sleeved shirt. I was sure that as the miles ticked off and the sun rose the day would become pleasant.
I was correct! The sunrise was stunning. Pinks, purples and blues as the big red sun rose from the ground. I stood on top of Blue Hill to watch the show. Beautiful. As soon as the sun rose the small birds began to sing, the frogs began to ribbit, the sand hill cranes made their crazy bad violin sound and the geese began to honk. A wilderness symphony. I love the outdoors. I love to run in the early morning sunrise.
Not one other person was out on the trail this morning, my footprints were the only ones visible, making craters in the damp sandy areas. I love the solitude. The peace and quiet, being alone. That is one of the reasons I love long distance running. Time to myself; to think, to meditate, to sooth my soul.
The ponds are all full, some overfull, spilling into the low lands. Topaz had plenty of areas to immerse himself, go for a swim and a drink.
I ran 30 miles..I believe Topaz probably ran 40, as he runs out from me, and back, making big circles around me. He didn't get a run yesterday as I was at the ski hill. His body was a quiver with unleashed, pent up energy. He let it loose.
By the time we were finished the gloves and ear band were removed, the long sleeved shirt was off and I was warm. 5 hours goes by very quickly when I spend it doing what I love.
Back home to a shower and then Happy Mothers Day! Steve and the boys presented me with a Honey Crisp Apple tree! My favorite apple. When they are in season I eat a few a day, and then complain that they are the most expensive apple in the store. Now I have my own tree!
Tyler and Troy then offered to help me weed out my perennial gardens and to get them ready for the season. I was stunned. Help me weed? I took full advantage and we weeded and planted for 3 hours, without one complaint! We had 3 hours to talk without being interupped by telephone or television or friends. 3 hours that I will always treasure; talking about school, friends, sports and anything else that came up. 3 hours of garden work was never more enjoyable.
A hard leg day at the gym..some grocery shopping and taking it easy tonight, watching the Twins. A very good day.
Happy Mother's Day to all of the Mom's out there!
Saturday, May 10, 2008
The Hills Are Alive..With The Sound of ...
MEGADEATH. Yup, at the Myth last night. Awesome show.
My ears were still ringing when I headed for the ski hills today. My first session of running ski hills since last fall. I had some errands to run in St. Cloud so I decided to try Powder Ridge, where the boys and I snowboard.
My legs didn't lose anything over the winter. In fact, they are stronger. I guess the one hour, twice weekly, iron sessions have increased their strength as well as the one hour, twice weekly, stair stepping sessions from hell, where my heart rate screams at the 180-195 mark. Gotta love it.
I ran a mile warm up and then up the hill I ran, walked, hiked my way up. What a view from the top! Thundering down the hill; a bit wet, mushy and muddy in spots. Slippery! I fell down a few times over the length of the session. What a muddy mess. But fun, oh yeah, I loved it.
It was cool; low 50's and lots of rain. I was soaked. At the end of the session I had completed 10 hills, then a two mile cool down. I quickly changed into dry clothes and headed for home.
Next week I'll get hills on the Superior Hiking Trail. Saturday I'll run the 50K and Sunday I'll do repeats on Moose Mountain. That'll be a treat :) Hill repeats are back as a weekly workout.
My ears were still ringing when I headed for the ski hills today. My first session of running ski hills since last fall. I had some errands to run in St. Cloud so I decided to try Powder Ridge, where the boys and I snowboard.
My legs didn't lose anything over the winter. In fact, they are stronger. I guess the one hour, twice weekly, iron sessions have increased their strength as well as the one hour, twice weekly, stair stepping sessions from hell, where my heart rate screams at the 180-195 mark. Gotta love it.
I ran a mile warm up and then up the hill I ran, walked, hiked my way up. What a view from the top! Thundering down the hill; a bit wet, mushy and muddy in spots. Slippery! I fell down a few times over the length of the session. What a muddy mess. But fun, oh yeah, I loved it.
It was cool; low 50's and lots of rain. I was soaked. At the end of the session I had completed 10 hills, then a two mile cool down. I quickly changed into dry clothes and headed for home.
Next week I'll get hills on the Superior Hiking Trail. Saturday I'll run the 50K and Sunday I'll do repeats on Moose Mountain. That'll be a treat :) Hill repeats are back as a weekly workout.
Saturday, May 03, 2008
Topaz: The Great Beaver Hunter
Thoughts of today passed through my brain all week long. I knew that I had to work at the annual City/Township Clean Up Day, which is always held the first Saturday of May. It is always cold; sometimes rainy, sometimes snowy. Rain is the worse of the evils.
I stand on the muddy dirt road, walk up to a zillion trucks in a long line, take the driver's license, check address, check what type of junk they are disposing of: TV, appliance, motors, electronics, household junk, etc. Collect the fee and direct them onto the next stop.
All week long it rained or snowed. The forecast for today was more rain and snow this morning and later clearing. Clean up day is bad enough when it is dry. I stand there for 5 hours as I freeze and my back becomes sore from standing in one place and shivering.
Well, today wasn't as bad as I anticipated. It wasn't raining! It was just very very windy and cold. I wore a winter parka, wool hat and gloves and yes, my sorel boots. I had my snowboard pants in the car just in case my jeans weren't warm enough. Thankfully, the snowboard pants stayed in the car.
After my 5 hours were up I headed home. Steve and the boys were at the indoor archery center so Topaz and I headed for an afternoon run.
As I pulled into the lot I couldn't believe my eyes. 15 or so cars were parked in the lot. Ish. I almost drove to the gravel road as I figured I'd rather run gravel road solo than trail with 15 cars full of people. Then I thought maybe they were using the lot as a park n ride or something, how could their be 15 cars? I ventured into the lot, barely found a spot and hit the trail.
We ran along, surprising deer and the sand hill cranes. I though it interesting that the deer were so near to the trail when there must have been people around somewhere. The ponds are absolutely full with water; the canadian geese and swans love it. Topaz loves it. He dive bombs into the ponds, disturbing the birds, trying to get to them before they fly off. It's hilarious. He comes out all drippy, can't stand that I'm in front of him so he shakes as he is running, passing me by.
We almost finished one loop before we finally saw the reason for all of the vehicles. A boy scout troop was touring the trail. They were identifying the turtles and frogs down by the river banks. I was glad that I didn't pass up the trail for the gravel road!
While running toward a pond I saw something dark move slowly across the trail. Topaz spied it too. I couldn't figure out what it was. As we approached the animal it began to move more quickly, it was lumbering, kind of wobbling back and forth as it moved forward. I saw his tail. It was a beaver! Topaz took after it and the beaver began to move more quickly, waddling as fast as he could. As he reached the pond Topaz began to gain on him, the beaver slid into the pond with Topaz right after him. Topaz couldn't find him once he hit the water. He dug around the shoreline, blew bubbles underwater but could not find the beaver.
We ended up running 20 miles, never to find the beaver again. Each time we passed that pond, Topaz stopped to look for the beaver. I bet he stops by the pond again tomorrow, looking for that beaver.
I stand on the muddy dirt road, walk up to a zillion trucks in a long line, take the driver's license, check address, check what type of junk they are disposing of: TV, appliance, motors, electronics, household junk, etc. Collect the fee and direct them onto the next stop.
All week long it rained or snowed. The forecast for today was more rain and snow this morning and later clearing. Clean up day is bad enough when it is dry. I stand there for 5 hours as I freeze and my back becomes sore from standing in one place and shivering.
Well, today wasn't as bad as I anticipated. It wasn't raining! It was just very very windy and cold. I wore a winter parka, wool hat and gloves and yes, my sorel boots. I had my snowboard pants in the car just in case my jeans weren't warm enough. Thankfully, the snowboard pants stayed in the car.
After my 5 hours were up I headed home. Steve and the boys were at the indoor archery center so Topaz and I headed for an afternoon run.
As I pulled into the lot I couldn't believe my eyes. 15 or so cars were parked in the lot. Ish. I almost drove to the gravel road as I figured I'd rather run gravel road solo than trail with 15 cars full of people. Then I thought maybe they were using the lot as a park n ride or something, how could their be 15 cars? I ventured into the lot, barely found a spot and hit the trail.
We ran along, surprising deer and the sand hill cranes. I though it interesting that the deer were so near to the trail when there must have been people around somewhere. The ponds are absolutely full with water; the canadian geese and swans love it. Topaz loves it. He dive bombs into the ponds, disturbing the birds, trying to get to them before they fly off. It's hilarious. He comes out all drippy, can't stand that I'm in front of him so he shakes as he is running, passing me by.
We almost finished one loop before we finally saw the reason for all of the vehicles. A boy scout troop was touring the trail. They were identifying the turtles and frogs down by the river banks. I was glad that I didn't pass up the trail for the gravel road!
While running toward a pond I saw something dark move slowly across the trail. Topaz spied it too. I couldn't figure out what it was. As we approached the animal it began to move more quickly, it was lumbering, kind of wobbling back and forth as it moved forward. I saw his tail. It was a beaver! Topaz took after it and the beaver began to move more quickly, waddling as fast as he could. As he reached the pond Topaz began to gain on him, the beaver slid into the pond with Topaz right after him. Topaz couldn't find him once he hit the water. He dug around the shoreline, blew bubbles underwater but could not find the beaver.
We ended up running 20 miles, never to find the beaver again. Each time we passed that pond, Topaz stopped to look for the beaver. I bet he stops by the pond again tomorrow, looking for that beaver.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Sunday, April 20, 2008
EVE REMBLESKI
My friend, Eve. Won TRAIL MIX 50K outright. Yup, first place OVERALL.
Way to Rock and Roll, Eve. You the woman! 50K in 3:41; a 7:09 pace.
Way to Rock and Roll, Eve. You the woman! 50K in 3:41; a 7:09 pace.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Back in the Saddle Again
What a difference 8 hours of sleep can make! Every night this past week I had something I had to attend to. Township Board of Equalization, County Planning and Zoning, Gun Safety with Troy, Tennis, Coaching. Last night I only ran, brought Tyler home from tennis, brought Troy to the Middle School Activity Night and picked him up..and stayed home. It was wonderful. I dozed on and off while reading my book, I went to bed at 10 and slept until 6. Wonderful. I normally rise at 4; the two extra hours were needed. I had decided that I wasn't going to make it the the Trail Mix 25K/50K to volunteer. I was too tired.
I and Topaz hit the trail for 10 miles. It was fabulous. No aches and pains, no stiffness, all of the swelling is gone, thanks to 101 cold baths. I feel great. Topaz took off after a group of 19 deer..yes, I counted them! He was gone for a good 5 minutes before he finally reappeared. I saw Bald Eagles, the Sandhill Crane, Trumpeter Swans and two Coyotes. Lots of wildlife enjoying the woods.
Most of the snow is off of the trail now. It felt so great not to be running in snow shoes. What a treat!
Now I am going to head over to the gym before I do some grocery shopping and other errands.
Thanks for all of your comments and well wishes. I appreciate each and every one of them.
I must be feeling good..I find myself planning my FANS 24 hour run in June. I will run the Superior 50K in May, but just for fun. FANS is going to be more of a goal oriented race. I'm looking forward to it.
Inov 8 keeps me in trail shoes, but for FANS training I'll need to cough up $130 for a new pair of Asics Gel Kayano's. The ones that I have been running treadmill repeats are the same I wore at Vermont 100 last summer. I guess I need to shop tomorrow, before I head over to PF Changs to meet Bonnie and Marie for lunch :)
I and Topaz hit the trail for 10 miles. It was fabulous. No aches and pains, no stiffness, all of the swelling is gone, thanks to 101 cold baths. I feel great. Topaz took off after a group of 19 deer..yes, I counted them! He was gone for a good 5 minutes before he finally reappeared. I saw Bald Eagles, the Sandhill Crane, Trumpeter Swans and two Coyotes. Lots of wildlife enjoying the woods.
Most of the snow is off of the trail now. It felt so great not to be running in snow shoes. What a treat!
Now I am going to head over to the gym before I do some grocery shopping and other errands.
Thanks for all of your comments and well wishes. I appreciate each and every one of them.
I must be feeling good..I find myself planning my FANS 24 hour run in June. I will run the Superior 50K in May, but just for fun. FANS is going to be more of a goal oriented race. I'm looking forward to it.
Inov 8 keeps me in trail shoes, but for FANS training I'll need to cough up $130 for a new pair of Asics Gel Kayano's. The ones that I have been running treadmill repeats are the same I wore at Vermont 100 last summer. I guess I need to shop tomorrow, before I head over to PF Changs to meet Bonnie and Marie for lunch :)
Thursday, April 17, 2008
McNaughton Musings
- The man who said "I know I could finish this damn race in 24 hours if it weren't for the mud" I found that hilarious; I didn't realize he was serious and I responded "yeah, I could finish Leadville in 24 if it weren't for the elevation" I mean, come on, dude!
- Andy, voice booming, each and every lap "..and here is Julie Berg, McNaughton Woman's Champion for 2005 and 2007"..it was embarrassing, but still felt good!
- Last lap, singing at the top of my lungs to Ozzy "I keep running but I'm getting nowhere..." the man around the corner in front of me said "oh yeah, you are getting somewhere chicka.."
- Watching the men climb the fallen tree, over the river crossing and jumping off on the other side to stay dry. No way! I would have fallen off of the tree into the river, getting more wet than just trudging through each time.
- The cookie balls during the night at Heaven's Gate. They were chocolate and coconut and peanut butter I think. I don't believe they were cooked. I think they were refrigerated and oh so delicious. What were those balls of goodness?
- After heading out on a night loop, deciding I had to return because I couldn't see and needed better lights. Asking Andy if I had to re-do the first part of the loop, so happy when he told me no, I could continue where I left of. Thank goodness.
- The Joy. The pure Joy of the race. Loving the run, loving the race, loving each and every step I put into it. The race was the party that I had been training for.
- Andy, voice booming, each and every lap "..and here is Julie Berg, McNaughton Woman's Champion for 2005 and 2007"..it was embarrassing, but still felt good!
- Last lap, singing at the top of my lungs to Ozzy "I keep running but I'm getting nowhere..." the man around the corner in front of me said "oh yeah, you are getting somewhere chicka.."
- Watching the men climb the fallen tree, over the river crossing and jumping off on the other side to stay dry. No way! I would have fallen off of the tree into the river, getting more wet than just trudging through each time.
- The cookie balls during the night at Heaven's Gate. They were chocolate and coconut and peanut butter I think. I don't believe they were cooked. I think they were refrigerated and oh so delicious. What were those balls of goodness?
- After heading out on a night loop, deciding I had to return because I couldn't see and needed better lights. Asking Andy if I had to re-do the first part of the loop, so happy when he told me no, I could continue where I left of. Thank goodness.
- The Joy. The pure Joy of the race. Loving the run, loving the race, loving each and every step I put into it. The race was the party that I had been training for.
Monday, April 14, 2008
McNaughton Fun Fest
Where to start? This is going to be l o n g. With thank yous. Thank you to all of you, for thinking of me this weekend and sending emails and comments while I was gone. Thank you to Andy, the Race Director of McNaughton. He dotes on his runners from the time first time I see him at packet pickup on Friday to the final hug when I leave Sunday morning. He is incredible. The volunteers are wonderful, the Heaven's Gate aid station welcomed me back each lap just like I was a part of the family. Of course I'm thankful to my family who puts up with me and to Topaz, who ran almost all of my training miles with me, most of them while I was on snowshoes (see Steve Q, snowshoeing CAN be training!) and he (Topaz) was foraging through miles of snow.
Early last week Karen graciously offered to ride along to Pekin IL with me, as I was going solo this year. Most of the Minnesota contingent was doing Wynn's 50K in WI this past Saturday. I told Karen that I was now planning to leave Thursday, to meet my sister in law in IA, flying from San Francisco, as well as my parents, who were coming back from wintering in TX. Well, none of that panned out. SIL's flight was cancelled (American Airlines) and parents were ahead of schedule, arriving at my home to spend Thursday-Sunday. So, solo I was.
Thursday night it began to snow. And snow and snow. There was a 2 hour late start at school, so I hung out with the boys Friday morning, thinking I'd leave after I dropped them off at school. Well, the late start ended up being a cancellation for the day, so at 9 AM I was finally on the road.
I arrived at the Concorde Motel, $49 a night, around 6PM. The motel gave me the chills. There was a bar with a band and the doors opened to a parking lot, no into interior halls. My room faced the back lot where there was a Subway drive up window. I could hear the cars and the Subway speaker lady. Not a good thing. My room smelled like a smoking room that had been sprayed with Lysol. It irritated my throat and eyes.
I went to the race start to pick up my packet and made introductions. Andy gave me a big hug and welcomed me. I received a very nice red jacket and a woman's fit black/white running top, hat. Very nice.
Back to the motel of doom. I packed my drop bag, had my french press and beans, grinder all set. Crawled into bed with my Terry Goodkind series. The band began. The Subway girl was talking. Someone was pounding on the door. Oh, it was the door next door that sounded like it was in my room. I had a room that at one time connected to both rooms on the sides of me. Oh god. I could hear two men speaking like they were in my bathroom. Talking of women and drugs and money and guns. Good lord. One man left, another came, more money and drug talk, again and again, over and over. I was freaked out. I didn't make a sound. If they heard me, they would know I heard them. The hair on my neck stood on end. I was scared. Truly scared.
I decided to get out of there. It was 10 PM. I grabbed all my stuff, in the dark, packed it all and went to my car. I drove to the race start at McNaughton Park and slept peacefully and safely in my car until 5 AM. Whew!
I had just purchased a new vehicle last week. I didn't know where anything was. The dome lights, the back heater, etc. I do now!
I turned on the heater a few times during the night, it was cold and I hadn't packed for camping. I always carry my red down blanket, and it kept me fairly warm.
Managed to scrape up a cup of coffee, suck back a Hammergel and start the day.
As I waited at the start I was freezing. It was 34F. I wore heavy long pants, a top, jacket, fleece hat and gloves. I never changed during the race. I couldn't believe that this was my 4th McNaughton 100 and that 4 years ago I was standing at this very line scared to death, about to run my first 100, wondering what would happen out there. The fear was gone, I knew I could finish, there are 34 hours to do so. I was a bit concerned about the trail conditions. It had rained in IL for days and was drizzling and snowing off and on. It was going to be pretty mucky, I figured...I was right. It was more than pretty mucky...
I didn't see many familiar faces. The Minnesota's that were there were Al Holtz, running the 150, John Taylor, running the 150 and Jim Wilson running the 50 mile. Jim had finished the 50 mile on Friday.
Andy said go and off we went. By 6 the sun was beginning to rise so I didn't need lights. I had a Fenix handheld in my drop bag for later. I tried to just get into a rhythm and enjoy the first few loops. I have come to realize that I just don't get into my 'zone' until 30 or 40 miles. Before that my mind is worrying about the evening, the dark, my lights, tomorrow..blah blah blah. I kept telling myself to enjoy myself, this is the party that I have been training for. Enjoy the people.
The trail really was a mess. My first loop was just over 2 hours, my plan was to run the daylight loops in 240 or so and night was whatever I could muster. I'll have to look at my splits but I think each daylight loop was 210-240 or so.
I was a bit concerned about the amount of mud. It make the ups and downs crazy slippery. I thought of Karl Meltzer last year, how he just tramped up the muddy hills without a slow down. Someone asked me how I could get up the hills so quickly. I didn't think that I was!
During my 3rd loop I came across Al and John. Al was on his 9th and John was on 8. They both looked great. Al told me he went the whole night without lights; for a challenge. He challenged me to the same. I couldn't understand why? But he did just that! He ran 3 loops in the dark with a light to only illuminate his watch. Wow. I didn't want that challenge. But it came true, anyhow.
I saw Ryan Dexter. Man, he had finished 100 miles at 20 hours and was going on to finish up his 150. He looked fabulous, yes, Ryan, you did! He was moving well with his pacer and ended up finishing second to David Goggins. I never saw David.
I came across Ollie, who wasn't feeling too well. His stomach had gone south, but he was still moving forward.
Two gals that read this blog introduced themselves to me: Jess from Seattle was running her first 100. She became very cold and wasn't able to finish, but did get in 7 laps, I believe. She came to chat after I finished and looked very good! Good job, Jess. Ellen from IN was running the 100, too. I did see Ellen on the course in the morning. She looked good! You guys will have to post a comment and let everyone know what you thought of the race.
At miles 40 everything came together for me. I was eating well, which was a concern for me in the beginning. I haven't run a 100 since I have been cutting weight and pretty much eating Paleo, via Leanness Lifestyle. I have been eating only 1 carb meal a day, post run, and really didn't know how, or if, this would affect my race. I ate a peanut butter and jelly sandwich almost every 3 hours for the first 50 miles or so. I also sucked back over 20 Hammergels, I had 20 bottles of Hammer Heed. I was all carbbed up during the race. But still, I had to have something to worry about, so I worried about the way I had been eating. Which wasn't necessary. I used my blister potion at Heaven's Gate, every three loops, I didn't have ANY blisters. NONE. All race! Blisters have been the bane of my existence during 100 mile events. Not any more. Now flashlights are. I didn't have any upset stomach ache, no pains, I was in the zone. Finally.
I hadn't used my iPod yet, I was 'saving' it for the half way point. I was just producing endorphins, feeling incredibly exhilarated and full of fire. John Storkamp told me to Be the Warrior. I was. I was running hard through the mud, my legs held up. Has to be from squatting 210x12x10 each week during my weekly 2 hour leg weight session, as well as stair stepping 2 sessions a week. My leg strength has surprised me. My quads never felt tired, I felt great. I felt bad for some of the runners. Some were really struggling through the mud. One man was in front of me going up a hill, a muddy mess. All of a sudden he stopped and I was like WTF? I almost banged into him. Then I realized his SHOE WAS SUCKED OFF HIS FOOT. Right in the quagmire of mud. Stuck there. I told him he now had a great story, that his shoe was actually sucked off. He didn't think it so amusing. I didn't laugh; I just thought it was a good story. I guess not. I shut up and moved on.
The rivers were refreshing. It felt good to cross them, get all of the mud off my shoes and feel my toes chill. The crossings were mid calf high.
I was feeling so damn good I didn't want night fall to come. I knew that during the night I would slow due to the fact that I am as blind as a bat in the darkness, and I suck with lights. I have spent a small fortune in head lamps, all which sit in a drawer. They give me headaches, they are uncomfortable, heavy, etc. I knew that the night would cause me to slow, to stiffen, to lose my endorphin high.
At lap 5 Andy told me I had first woman. I was surprised, as I hadn't seen any women on the trail for a while and assumed it was because they were ahead and we were travelling the same speed. I was happy, giddy, is more like it. I grabbed my iPod and rocked on. I was euphoric, having so much fun, frolicking through the mud, enjoying myself, enjoying only having to concentrate on putting one foot in front of the other.
Loop 6 and Jim reminded me to grab my flashlight. I have a little Fenix I use. Jim helped me with batteries and such, took my empty gels, filled my Heed and I was off. I ran the first section and then went back to the start. I couldn't see. It sucked. It was too dark and my flashlight was not doing much. Jim gave me his handheld and Andy took the headlamp off of his head for me to use. He found it amusing that I didn't have a headlamp. I found it stupid. I thanked them both, and headed back out.
I ran when I could, trying not to stiffen up by moving too slowly. I felt so good, I wished I had a few more hours of daylight to really move. I switched out the batteries in the handheld once and continued to the start.
Then came the lap from hell. I was running along, noticing all the bright lights runners had, questioning them about their lights, when Jim's handheld went out. I replaced the batteries again, and it still wouldn't go on. A runner from Norway (I think) helped me out, but couldn't get the flashlight to work. Shit. I ran on, worrying about the headlamp of Andy's that was getting more and more dim. I had AAs with me as that is what I understood the lamp to need. Before it died on me, I was at the Totem aid station and began to change batteries. Oops, it took AAA. Oh man. Screwed. No one had batteries. I went off in the complete dark. I berated myself. Told myself how stupid I am. How can I have run 9 100s and still have not figured out the damn light thing? What was I thinking? So what if the headlamps at home give you a headache, bring it along and strap it on your waist or your wrist..hello..you need a freaking lamp you know? I slowly navigated the trail. Hoping for a runner to come up so I could follow along. No luck. Suckage. I picked my way through the trail, ever so slowly, bitching at myself and putting myself down the whole way. FINALLY I realized that this is a learning opportunity. This is a time to say OK, I will never be without lights again, I will figure something out to work in the future. I am learning from this mistake. Yes, I may lose the lead, I may not finish when I wanted to, but look, I am running a 100 mile race, I have the fitness to be able to do this, that is pretty awesome. ENJOY, Julie. Enjoy the next lap that will be in the daylight, you can embrace the next lap, enjoy the sun, enjoy the rest of the race. OK, glad I have myself under control now.
I continued on, at times feeling like I should just curl up in a ball on the trail and cry. But it was too cold and I'd freeze to death. It was snowing and windy. I kept on.
At 530 I was so excited that the sun would slowly rise. I was coming down the hill of hell after Golf hill, in the muddiest section of the race, trying to get down without killing myself, trying to follow the ribbons in the darkness when I saw the lightness in the sky. THANK god. Happiness! I could see. Could I run?
Oh yeah. I ran as hard as I could back to the start. I lamented my problem for a quick moment, then got over it. I was ready to party. Andy told me I was First Woman/Second Overall. What? No way. Where are all of the boys? He told me sleeping or home. I could not believe my ears. After the slow lap from hell I had, and I'm Second Overall? Nutzo Cookoo.
I had a great last 10 miles. I ran as fast as I could. I rocked out to Ozzie, Black Sabbath and Megadeath. Runners asked me what I was on? Can I have some? I laughed, I'm just running..just enjoying the party. The endorphins came back in I finished the last loop in 240 or so. Great way to finish a fine race.
As I came in Andy had another hug for me, Jim as well. Andy presented my award, as well as some clothing from North Face, reserved for the first woman, pretty cool.
We took photos, had fun. Drank Diet Pepsi. I was able to see Charlotte, the 150 woman winner come in. WOW. All I can say is WOW. I can't imagine 150. I just don't have the want to do that.
I changed out of my wet muddy gross clothes, put dry clean clothes over my gross body. Visited an hour or so and headed for home .. with a smile on my face. What an awesome fun weekend.
Oh, Jim Wilson, a huge thank you! I just met Jim last weekend at Zumbro. He ran the 50 at McNaughton, on Friday and helped me out ALL weekend. I can't believe what he did for me. He was at the start for me every lap, bue one, while he caught some sleeip, he filled my bottle with Heed, he brought me sandwiches, he helped me with my lights, he even brought me a wad of Vaseline, he asked for my garbage each lap, he was incredible. Thank you, Jim.
Today I feel very good. I brought the boys to school and have the day off. Unfortunately, in my haste to leave the motel room of doom, I left behind my book, so I'll be heading to Maple Grove's Barnes and Noble soon. I am reading Terry Goodkind's Sword of Truth series 18 nice big fat 1000 page books, and can't miss number three! There is about 4" on snow on the ground, I and Topaz will hit the trail for a nice brisk walk this afternoon and I'll just be chilling today.
Congratulations to all the McNaughton runners. It was a tough day to be out there, for sure. To those of you running your first 100, it isn't always that rough. Come again, it won't always be that muddy!
I'll post some pictures later.
Early last week Karen graciously offered to ride along to Pekin IL with me, as I was going solo this year. Most of the Minnesota contingent was doing Wynn's 50K in WI this past Saturday. I told Karen that I was now planning to leave Thursday, to meet my sister in law in IA, flying from San Francisco, as well as my parents, who were coming back from wintering in TX. Well, none of that panned out. SIL's flight was cancelled (American Airlines) and parents were ahead of schedule, arriving at my home to spend Thursday-Sunday. So, solo I was.
Thursday night it began to snow. And snow and snow. There was a 2 hour late start at school, so I hung out with the boys Friday morning, thinking I'd leave after I dropped them off at school. Well, the late start ended up being a cancellation for the day, so at 9 AM I was finally on the road.
I arrived at the Concorde Motel, $49 a night, around 6PM. The motel gave me the chills. There was a bar with a band and the doors opened to a parking lot, no into interior halls. My room faced the back lot where there was a Subway drive up window. I could hear the cars and the Subway speaker lady. Not a good thing. My room smelled like a smoking room that had been sprayed with Lysol. It irritated my throat and eyes.
I went to the race start to pick up my packet and made introductions. Andy gave me a big hug and welcomed me. I received a very nice red jacket and a woman's fit black/white running top, hat. Very nice.
Back to the motel of doom. I packed my drop bag, had my french press and beans, grinder all set. Crawled into bed with my Terry Goodkind series. The band began. The Subway girl was talking. Someone was pounding on the door. Oh, it was the door next door that sounded like it was in my room. I had a room that at one time connected to both rooms on the sides of me. Oh god. I could hear two men speaking like they were in my bathroom. Talking of women and drugs and money and guns. Good lord. One man left, another came, more money and drug talk, again and again, over and over. I was freaked out. I didn't make a sound. If they heard me, they would know I heard them. The hair on my neck stood on end. I was scared. Truly scared.
I decided to get out of there. It was 10 PM. I grabbed all my stuff, in the dark, packed it all and went to my car. I drove to the race start at McNaughton Park and slept peacefully and safely in my car until 5 AM. Whew!
I had just purchased a new vehicle last week. I didn't know where anything was. The dome lights, the back heater, etc. I do now!
I turned on the heater a few times during the night, it was cold and I hadn't packed for camping. I always carry my red down blanket, and it kept me fairly warm.
Managed to scrape up a cup of coffee, suck back a Hammergel and start the day.
As I waited at the start I was freezing. It was 34F. I wore heavy long pants, a top, jacket, fleece hat and gloves. I never changed during the race. I couldn't believe that this was my 4th McNaughton 100 and that 4 years ago I was standing at this very line scared to death, about to run my first 100, wondering what would happen out there. The fear was gone, I knew I could finish, there are 34 hours to do so. I was a bit concerned about the trail conditions. It had rained in IL for days and was drizzling and snowing off and on. It was going to be pretty mucky, I figured...I was right. It was more than pretty mucky...
I didn't see many familiar faces. The Minnesota's that were there were Al Holtz, running the 150, John Taylor, running the 150 and Jim Wilson running the 50 mile. Jim had finished the 50 mile on Friday.
Andy said go and off we went. By 6 the sun was beginning to rise so I didn't need lights. I had a Fenix handheld in my drop bag for later. I tried to just get into a rhythm and enjoy the first few loops. I have come to realize that I just don't get into my 'zone' until 30 or 40 miles. Before that my mind is worrying about the evening, the dark, my lights, tomorrow..blah blah blah. I kept telling myself to enjoy myself, this is the party that I have been training for. Enjoy the people.
The trail really was a mess. My first loop was just over 2 hours, my plan was to run the daylight loops in 240 or so and night was whatever I could muster. I'll have to look at my splits but I think each daylight loop was 210-240 or so.
I was a bit concerned about the amount of mud. It make the ups and downs crazy slippery. I thought of Karl Meltzer last year, how he just tramped up the muddy hills without a slow down. Someone asked me how I could get up the hills so quickly. I didn't think that I was!
During my 3rd loop I came across Al and John. Al was on his 9th and John was on 8. They both looked great. Al told me he went the whole night without lights; for a challenge. He challenged me to the same. I couldn't understand why? But he did just that! He ran 3 loops in the dark with a light to only illuminate his watch. Wow. I didn't want that challenge. But it came true, anyhow.
I saw Ryan Dexter. Man, he had finished 100 miles at 20 hours and was going on to finish up his 150. He looked fabulous, yes, Ryan, you did! He was moving well with his pacer and ended up finishing second to David Goggins. I never saw David.
I came across Ollie, who wasn't feeling too well. His stomach had gone south, but he was still moving forward.
Two gals that read this blog introduced themselves to me: Jess from Seattle was running her first 100. She became very cold and wasn't able to finish, but did get in 7 laps, I believe. She came to chat after I finished and looked very good! Good job, Jess. Ellen from IN was running the 100, too. I did see Ellen on the course in the morning. She looked good! You guys will have to post a comment and let everyone know what you thought of the race.
At miles 40 everything came together for me. I was eating well, which was a concern for me in the beginning. I haven't run a 100 since I have been cutting weight and pretty much eating Paleo, via Leanness Lifestyle. I have been eating only 1 carb meal a day, post run, and really didn't know how, or if, this would affect my race. I ate a peanut butter and jelly sandwich almost every 3 hours for the first 50 miles or so. I also sucked back over 20 Hammergels, I had 20 bottles of Hammer Heed. I was all carbbed up during the race. But still, I had to have something to worry about, so I worried about the way I had been eating. Which wasn't necessary. I used my blister potion at Heaven's Gate, every three loops, I didn't have ANY blisters. NONE. All race! Blisters have been the bane of my existence during 100 mile events. Not any more. Now flashlights are. I didn't have any upset stomach ache, no pains, I was in the zone. Finally.
I hadn't used my iPod yet, I was 'saving' it for the half way point. I was just producing endorphins, feeling incredibly exhilarated and full of fire. John Storkamp told me to Be the Warrior. I was. I was running hard through the mud, my legs held up. Has to be from squatting 210x12x10 each week during my weekly 2 hour leg weight session, as well as stair stepping 2 sessions a week. My leg strength has surprised me. My quads never felt tired, I felt great. I felt bad for some of the runners. Some were really struggling through the mud. One man was in front of me going up a hill, a muddy mess. All of a sudden he stopped and I was like WTF? I almost banged into him. Then I realized his SHOE WAS SUCKED OFF HIS FOOT. Right in the quagmire of mud. Stuck there. I told him he now had a great story, that his shoe was actually sucked off. He didn't think it so amusing. I didn't laugh; I just thought it was a good story. I guess not. I shut up and moved on.
The rivers were refreshing. It felt good to cross them, get all of the mud off my shoes and feel my toes chill. The crossings were mid calf high.
I was feeling so damn good I didn't want night fall to come. I knew that during the night I would slow due to the fact that I am as blind as a bat in the darkness, and I suck with lights. I have spent a small fortune in head lamps, all which sit in a drawer. They give me headaches, they are uncomfortable, heavy, etc. I knew that the night would cause me to slow, to stiffen, to lose my endorphin high.
At lap 5 Andy told me I had first woman. I was surprised, as I hadn't seen any women on the trail for a while and assumed it was because they were ahead and we were travelling the same speed. I was happy, giddy, is more like it. I grabbed my iPod and rocked on. I was euphoric, having so much fun, frolicking through the mud, enjoying myself, enjoying only having to concentrate on putting one foot in front of the other.
Loop 6 and Jim reminded me to grab my flashlight. I have a little Fenix I use. Jim helped me with batteries and such, took my empty gels, filled my Heed and I was off. I ran the first section and then went back to the start. I couldn't see. It sucked. It was too dark and my flashlight was not doing much. Jim gave me his handheld and Andy took the headlamp off of his head for me to use. He found it amusing that I didn't have a headlamp. I found it stupid. I thanked them both, and headed back out.
I ran when I could, trying not to stiffen up by moving too slowly. I felt so good, I wished I had a few more hours of daylight to really move. I switched out the batteries in the handheld once and continued to the start.
Then came the lap from hell. I was running along, noticing all the bright lights runners had, questioning them about their lights, when Jim's handheld went out. I replaced the batteries again, and it still wouldn't go on. A runner from Norway (I think) helped me out, but couldn't get the flashlight to work. Shit. I ran on, worrying about the headlamp of Andy's that was getting more and more dim. I had AAs with me as that is what I understood the lamp to need. Before it died on me, I was at the Totem aid station and began to change batteries. Oops, it took AAA. Oh man. Screwed. No one had batteries. I went off in the complete dark. I berated myself. Told myself how stupid I am. How can I have run 9 100s and still have not figured out the damn light thing? What was I thinking? So what if the headlamps at home give you a headache, bring it along and strap it on your waist or your wrist..hello..you need a freaking lamp you know? I slowly navigated the trail. Hoping for a runner to come up so I could follow along. No luck. Suckage. I picked my way through the trail, ever so slowly, bitching at myself and putting myself down the whole way. FINALLY I realized that this is a learning opportunity. This is a time to say OK, I will never be without lights again, I will figure something out to work in the future. I am learning from this mistake. Yes, I may lose the lead, I may not finish when I wanted to, but look, I am running a 100 mile race, I have the fitness to be able to do this, that is pretty awesome. ENJOY, Julie. Enjoy the next lap that will be in the daylight, you can embrace the next lap, enjoy the sun, enjoy the rest of the race. OK, glad I have myself under control now.
I continued on, at times feeling like I should just curl up in a ball on the trail and cry. But it was too cold and I'd freeze to death. It was snowing and windy. I kept on.
At 530 I was so excited that the sun would slowly rise. I was coming down the hill of hell after Golf hill, in the muddiest section of the race, trying to get down without killing myself, trying to follow the ribbons in the darkness when I saw the lightness in the sky. THANK god. Happiness! I could see. Could I run?
Oh yeah. I ran as hard as I could back to the start. I lamented my problem for a quick moment, then got over it. I was ready to party. Andy told me I was First Woman/Second Overall. What? No way. Where are all of the boys? He told me sleeping or home. I could not believe my ears. After the slow lap from hell I had, and I'm Second Overall? Nutzo Cookoo.
I had a great last 10 miles. I ran as fast as I could. I rocked out to Ozzie, Black Sabbath and Megadeath. Runners asked me what I was on? Can I have some? I laughed, I'm just running..just enjoying the party. The endorphins came back in I finished the last loop in 240 or so. Great way to finish a fine race.
As I came in Andy had another hug for me, Jim as well. Andy presented my award, as well as some clothing from North Face, reserved for the first woman, pretty cool.
We took photos, had fun. Drank Diet Pepsi. I was able to see Charlotte, the 150 woman winner come in. WOW. All I can say is WOW. I can't imagine 150. I just don't have the want to do that.
I changed out of my wet muddy gross clothes, put dry clean clothes over my gross body. Visited an hour or so and headed for home .. with a smile on my face. What an awesome fun weekend.
Oh, Jim Wilson, a huge thank you! I just met Jim last weekend at Zumbro. He ran the 50 at McNaughton, on Friday and helped me out ALL weekend. I can't believe what he did for me. He was at the start for me every lap, bue one, while he caught some sleeip, he filled my bottle with Heed, he brought me sandwiches, he helped me with my lights, he even brought me a wad of Vaseline, he asked for my garbage each lap, he was incredible. Thank you, Jim.
Today I feel very good. I brought the boys to school and have the day off. Unfortunately, in my haste to leave the motel room of doom, I left behind my book, so I'll be heading to Maple Grove's Barnes and Noble soon. I am reading Terry Goodkind's Sword of Truth series 18 nice big fat 1000 page books, and can't miss number three! There is about 4" on snow on the ground, I and Topaz will hit the trail for a nice brisk walk this afternoon and I'll just be chilling today.
Congratulations to all the McNaughton runners. It was a tough day to be out there, for sure. To those of you running your first 100, it isn't always that rough. Come again, it won't always be that muddy!
I'll post some pictures later.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
First Coaching Stint
Tonight was my first stint at coaching. As I previously posted, I am coaching a Woman's Beginner Running Group. This group meets at the Edina Community Center, is part of the Edina Community Education Program. Once a woman enters the group, she is part of the Minnesota Distance Running Association group, which puts on the program. It's a great tool to encourage new membership into MDRA. There were 38 women in the group tonight; 28 signed up as new members. That's amazing!
I was nervous, but excited. When I first began to run I had always wished I would join group such as this. I always felt I was too fat, too slow, too embarrassed, to uncoordinated..oh, and I couldn't run and didn't think I could be a runner. I was too afraid to step out of my comfort zone and ask for help.
Many of the women in this group felt just as I did a few years back. Over half of the women had NEVER run. I love it! Brand new exited and scared women ready to embark on something that could really change their lives..for the better. Many of the women could not believe that I was, in fact, them; that they were in fact, me. I told them they had one up on me, they stepped out of their comfort zone to run with a group of women, I was afraid to do that.
We began with me leading a warm-up and stretching session. Then we broke the group into three groups. One group (that had 1 woman) was an 'all run' group. She ran with another coach the whole workout. The second group was the 'never have run' group. They ran with another coach, walking 8 minutes and running 2 minutes 3x. I took the 'in between' group. These woman had run a bit in the past but not much. We walked 6 minutes and ran 4 minutes x3. We ended ended the session with another stretch and called it a night.
I loved it.
From here on out, for the next weeks, we have a speaker coming each week. We'll have a warm up, a workout, stretching and then the speaker. We'll discuss clothing to wear, shoes, races, injury, nutrition, etc.
I love it.
As for McNaughton, I'm set. Looks like a cool rainy weekend, which is fine. McNaughton is usually pretty wet and muddy. No biggie. It'll be a blast. Looks like a snow storm will be hitting here tomorrow. We could get a foot of snow. Hopefully as I head south, I'll be hitting rain and not snow! I'll drive back home on Sunday, following my finish. Hopefully before noon :)
Over and out...
I was nervous, but excited. When I first began to run I had always wished I would join group such as this. I always felt I was too fat, too slow, too embarrassed, to uncoordinated..oh, and I couldn't run and didn't think I could be a runner. I was too afraid to step out of my comfort zone and ask for help.
Many of the women in this group felt just as I did a few years back. Over half of the women had NEVER run. I love it! Brand new exited and scared women ready to embark on something that could really change their lives..for the better. Many of the women could not believe that I was, in fact, them; that they were in fact, me. I told them they had one up on me, they stepped out of their comfort zone to run with a group of women, I was afraid to do that.
We began with me leading a warm-up and stretching session. Then we broke the group into three groups. One group (that had 1 woman) was an 'all run' group. She ran with another coach the whole workout. The second group was the 'never have run' group. They ran with another coach, walking 8 minutes and running 2 minutes 3x. I took the 'in between' group. These woman had run a bit in the past but not much. We walked 6 minutes and ran 4 minutes x3. We ended ended the session with another stretch and called it a night.
I loved it.
From here on out, for the next weeks, we have a speaker coming each week. We'll have a warm up, a workout, stretching and then the speaker. We'll discuss clothing to wear, shoes, races, injury, nutrition, etc.
I love it.
As for McNaughton, I'm set. Looks like a cool rainy weekend, which is fine. McNaughton is usually pretty wet and muddy. No biggie. It'll be a blast. Looks like a snow storm will be hitting here tomorrow. We could get a foot of snow. Hopefully as I head south, I'll be hitting rain and not snow! I'll drive back home on Sunday, following my finish. Hopefully before noon :)
Over and out...
Sunday, April 06, 2008
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