Promise Land 50k

Event info
Date: 4/28/12
Location: North of Bedford, VA
Event Distance: 50k 
Hosted by: Extreme Ultra Running
Series: Lynchburg Ultra Series - event 3 of 4
Event Website: HERE

Other race reports on this event: currently 15 reports listed HERE



The Plan
You should know all ready if I titled a section "the plan" that it didn't work out. Of course it didn't. I PLANNED to have a friend run with me a part of the way, but the layout of the course, and when "crew" could be present and when they couldn't sort of hindered the plan. not knowing the exact details of the course did as well. Ultimately I asked the RD and he suggested my friend could run the last 5 or so miles from Sunset Fields to the end. whereas I was hoping he could trail the last 15 or so, but the course didn't allow. So then I considered him running along with me from the first Sunset Fields visit. This was greatly discouraged, so I just chalked it up as a rookie mistake and jumping the gun on the excitement of having Eddie run with me. Thankfully he understood, but I know he was disappointed.

The reason I wanted such a plan was because Terrapin's 50k was such an emotional experience. I liked the idea of either having someone to unload emotions on, or (maybe better yet) help buffer them away.

A first for many
Countless times I heard that this was someone's first ultra. I wouldn't have suggested this for anyone's first, but It hunk I may be wrong. elevation profiles can be so intimidating, but they only tell a small part of the story, until you really get out there and experience it.
For example check out this pic of the Promise Land 50k elevation profile as compared to the Boston Marathon elevation profile that circulated on Facebook in the days after Promise Land.

Of course, I love to irony of the photo, but really these are 2 separate challenges. 2 very different races.

As for this being someone's first ultra. in hindsight I'm not sure if it actually may be a GOOD first ultra. As daunting as that elevation profile to the left looks! My first consideration of running PL50k was one year ago at Terrapin when I finished the half. Dr. Horton said to me "Are you running Promise Land?" for which I said "I've not even run a full marathon, man!" and his reply "YOU DONT HAVE TO! - PEOPLE DONT GET THAT"... and I learn that he is right.

So PL as a first - here's my thoughts. the course is tough enough that you just can't run for much more than 6 miles at a time. then you hike up some big 'ol climb, and then yoga re back to running again. give it a half mile to find your running legs again and settle into a stride, drop a couple miles. then uh-oh, hiking agin up the next big climb. The pattern of this course is a lot of stop and go. Climbs that most mortals wont even consider running up. but hey you are traversing mountains. A first timer still needs to know what they are getting into and should prepare to be on their feet for 7 or 8 hours, maybe more.


What a crew!
Countless Mountain Junkies were present! I really liked the local-Roanoke community support we had with each other there. Many familiar faces. I think that was in part what made Terrapin so difficult of me (one of the many reasons). I enjoy sharing new moments with others. Dragging a friend through something they've never done. It is exciting to me to share it. I like being the encourager. My friend Ed McKeown was taking the challenge! I was excited for him and encouraged by his determination, motivation and courage to do it. With so much of the unknown before me as well, we shared many moments together.

Taking it in sections
I've started to plan my approach to ultras in 3 sections. 10 miles or more for each section. This held me divide up the elevation profile in my head, so I can anticipate - though I usually end up totally forgetting the elevation profile and just take it as it comes. today's approach was to take the first 10 much slower than previously. At Terrapin I dove in too fast, and I knew this. I hoped to stay with Ed for at least the first, and hopefully the first 10 miles. Not only was I with Ed, but Sean Cooper, also doing his first ultra was with us for much of that time as well. I enjoyed the conversation with those around us, the encouragement that was given and received from Ed and Sean. I think after that first 10, Ed seemed positive and hopeful for the remainder of the day. Slowly I began to pull away and I knew it was time for me to increase my overall pace.

Watch this!
This was my first event wearing my Garmin Forerunner 110. Lydia had bought it for me for my birthday and we both know I'd been wanting one for a long time now. I considered all the models, but settled on the 110, cause it was a watch I could wear normally, and it would do all the fancy running stuff I wanted it to do. Sure there was other features that I would have liked it to have, but I knew I was capable of just getting all way too geeked out on it, so I settled for the simple and stayed with the 110. It does all the necessary things to help with my training and I'm very happy with it. Ed was my coach for how to use and operate the watch, as he too uses the 110.

It all blurs together when you go 30+ miles
I dont recall much about the middle section, but I do recall really enjoying the first downhill sometime after mile 10. beautiful single track, fairly steep but I could finally open up and RUN! I was passing a few here and there. Always thinking that they would pass me again sometime. interestingly this race was much different. The second and third sections after mile 10 to the end, I was consistently passing others. The closer I got to the end and was still passing others, I knew I had prepared with taking my first 10 miles carefully - I finally did something right!

Weather or not???
The most difficult climb was up Apple Orchard Falls. It happens to you (and I mean it HAPPENS TO YOU) between miles 27 and 30 or so and then you are in for a nice long downhill - the same hill that was the first climb. Coming up AO Falls was tough. I wasn't expecting any rain. Not that I would have done anything differently, but it began to rain just as I hit the aid station at the bottom of the mountain. Rain was one thing but cold rain is another. But again... not that I would have done anything differently. Maybe I would have carried gloves but they would have done little good. and I don't have a super cool thin running jacket, but I hope to get one someday.

What came from the sky at that moment has been described as freezing rain (it indeed was freezing cold!) sleet and hail. I don't know what a weatherman would say it was, but I was super cold! The only solution was to move and not stop. I was unable to run due to the steep hike that was before me and I felt for those behind me that had to endure it for longer. The climb which was around 2 miles, but I'm sure it was less than 3, yet it seemed to never end. Fingers immovable. My exposed forearms would sting and radiate over my whole arm when a rain drop hit it just right. I was unable to squeeze my water bottle but I knew I still needed to drink and remain hydrated. I still had a lot of miles left. About 5 miles AFTER I finished this climb... if I finished this climb, but I HAD to. There was only one way out and that was within what lay before me, and so onward I pressed. At the top I needed to refill my bottle, but only stretched out my hand to the AS volunteers who removed my bottle for me and refilled it. I struggled to get it back on my hand. It was the same at the next and last AS as well. Just frozen.

I knew this was purely a mental thing I had to overcome here. Sure the climb was a physical feat, but if I wasn't focused mentally and if I diddnt stay focused and positive - if I got negative and let MISERY sink in. I knew it would be so much more difficult. I recalled the saying on the shirt from the Willis River 50k that I ran in January "Pain is expected, Suffering is optional" I knew not to let the suffering set in. Stay positive I kept telling myself "Don't get negative (Win at this mental game), press on, you'll be bragging about this tomorrow". I appreciated that the other runners I was around said very little. Every once in a while a slight complaint of what froze or what they could no longer feel. I was thankful I could still feel my feet unlike one of the ladies around me at the time. I considered that they too were fighting that mental game and their silence affirmed that.

The TOP
Tammy Gray (she doesn't know I know who she is he-he) was at the top and said "you are freezing, you've got to keep going" She's a voice of experience and I knew she was right. I spent little time at the AS and took on down the hill. I knew this was a chance to move more and warm up, and it was a welcomed change. I diddnt exhaust myself on the climb but I was excited to still be pressing on... thinking to myself "I'll be bragging about this tomorrow" I even shared that thought with another runner or two on the climb to try and encourage.

The long gravel road toward the end, as expected, felt much longer than it was on the way up the mountain. I was still pleased to be passing runners. I glanced at my watch to see what my pace was, I was logging 8-minute miles for the last couple of miles and I was excited to be feeling this good. From gravel, to paved and then the distant sounds of the finish line. The cowbells and cheering for the runners ahead of me. I turned onto the camp property and let out a victorious Woo-Hoo, and then crossed the line at 7:45 or so. Immediately I thought, "better beat that next year". Despite the discomfort experienced one hour ago on that climb, I was all ready planning a rematch of man vs. mountain.


What I did differently
The most important thing I did was a low fiber and high carb diet for 3 days leading up to the race. I diddnt have to "pit-stop" in the woods like I had for the last 2 50k events. I read about going low fiber. and I mentioned it to a GI surgeon that I work with who knows quite a bit about running. He said it sounded like a good plan. It felt good to get his approval.

Post race smiles
The familiar faces were welcomed and I thoroughly enjoyed talking with Jerry and Dru and Andy and Ed and Gina and Helen and Sean and Anita and Jay after the race (I'm sure I forgot many others). Veggie burger, chips and water was on the menu for me. Phones didn't work so I was unable to call home and share the excitement. I was excited to have in hand my finisher's shorts. What a better finisher's award than just another cool shirt. I'd been needing a new pair of shorts anyway. I suggest a new pair of shorts every year!!!
I'm still wearing the Montrail Masochist shoe. I'm anticipating I'll be getting a new pair soon. I've had minimal foot and toe problems. I'm nervous what a new shoe will bring.

Looking forward
I'm curious how to progress from this solid foundation of the 50k that I've built up, to whatever it takes to go for about 12 hours and finish the Mountain Masochist 50-miler in November. I've run one ultra every month since December. I'm asking and listening to any advice from others. My calendar shows that I'm basically taking the month of May off from the really long run. June includes the Conquer The Cover trail marathon and then the Eastern Divide 50k, also. I expect I will try to do some back to back runs, say a 20 miler and then 15 or so the following day on tired legs. I've also been told just take it slow and I'll be fine. But still I signed up for the 40miler in Douthat State Park put on by Odyssey Adventure Racing - The Trail Running Rampage in September. I also know that Jerry Ballard will be doing all these listed events with me, as well as the MM50-miler. Cant wait for those days ahead.

Holiday Lake 50k

Event info
Date: February 11, 2012.  
Location: Holiday Lake 4-H Educational Center in Appomattox, VA
Event Distance: 50k 
Hosted by: Extreme Ultra Running
Series: Lynchburg Ultra Series - event 1 of 4
Event Website: HERE

Other race reports on this event: 22 stories (and possibly more now)all linked from THIS page.

I am much later than usual posting this report. The real motivating factor was because I ran another race, which I  want to get to and I had to finish this one first. I had been 90% done for a long time, but never completed it. Life has been non-stop.
History
Even though I've covered this distance, just last month and a couple times previously, THIS was the event I was waiting for. I suppose I felt that to take part in one of Dr. David Horton's 50k's Was just something I HAD to do. Now I can check that off my list. If you don't know much about all he has accomplished, read the bio on that link and you'll be impressed to have a guy of such character and accomplishment in our region!
He and his friend Dr. Clark Zealand host the Lynchburg Ultra Series together, along with the Beast Series.
These are the region's ultimate ultra running events.

I wanted to run this event and this series for a couple years now. I always wanted to get my running up to this distance. I have a few people to thank for this. most importantly my wife, Lydia for allowing me to spend hours away from home and out in the woods. I'd like to thank my encouraging running friends. Especially Anita Finkle. She provided me the final step of encouragement that I needed to really get out there. I believe her encouragement to enter a 24 hour race was just what I needed to show me that I could do it! Also I'd like to thank some bloggers like Jenn at Freedom to be, for sharing her experiences of working toward and running her first ultras. I learned a lot from those stories she shared. I only hope that what I've been documenting here can help someone else get the info they need to accomplish their goals of running ultra marathons.

Events prior to the event
Why do I even call these races events, and not races? it is because they are so much more than a race to me. I think of shorter distances as races. and longer distances as events. They often take all day and there is food and friends and fun. how can you call that a race? I know it still is for many, of course it is. It can still be a race, even thought I call it an event. I think that shows it to be less intimidating and emphasizes it's just not all about gutting it out to the finish.

Trying to fit in my last long run was probably the more dramatic story in the small events leading up to this Sat. I sent out a message to running friends on FB that I'd like to do a long run. I changed the date on everyone a couple of times. and as my schedule would have it, I couldn't do it on a weekend. Which left me to run mid week in the afternoon / evening and it would take me long into the dark hours of the night. After stringing along a few friends and then changing plans a couple more times... I finally arranged with Eddie Mann that we would run the Chestnut Ridge Loop (next to Mill Mountain in Roanoke) and circle the 5.4 mile loop  times. Eventually the day came, I think it was a Thursday and it was a success. of course it got dark, which added an exciting element in the final hours. I was thankful for Eddie to have come with me and I believe it was his longest run at the time of his training... I'm looking forward to hopefully sharing with him his first ultra later this year, possibly at the Eastern Divide 50k.

The morning of
The race starts at 6:30, wow that is early. but I'm thankful for the early start. Of course that means it could be horribly cold, but thankfully today it wasn't. This also means that I wake up at 3:30 and try to leave at 4AM, so I arrive between 5:30 and 6 in just enough time to check in and get comfortable. That is exactly how it happened too. Believe it or not, the only thing I could have done differently was not take the first parking opportunity I saw which would have placed me closer to the race start, but it wasn't bad at all.

I arrived, Took a small walk to the lodge building where it was obvious that check-in would be located. grabbed my entry t-shirt, and scanned the left overs from what looked like a nice breakfast. I took a pack of chocolate covered donuts, which I knew would taste nice after the run. I saw a couple familiar faces, but didn't talk to anyone. Back to the car to make the final prep before the run.

At the start line, I looked around for familiar faces but didn't see them, I heard a couple names I knew being called out for not having checked in. Eventually Samantha Mitchell arrived to the start - Ah! finally a familiar face. Why does that help so much? I don't know. Just nervous energy. I knew others that would have been there but I didn't see them until later.

Finally we were off.

The race


Speaking of the person in front of me....
As the sun came up and I was passing a couple runners here and there, while a couple runners passed me here and there. I came upon an almost familiar figure. I approached him by the side and said "Craig Burns!" sure enough I was right. I've only met Craig once and that was at the Mountain Masochist mis-point. We had a short conversation and he drove my car for me to take it to the end of the race so it was there for me when I was done sweeping the second half of the course. When I expressed my excitement for having recognized him, he humbly replied "It's the Spirit".

Craig and I ran together for a while. I thoroughly enjoyed his company and his focus. Craig and I share the same the same faith in Christ and we were able to enjoy that element as we ran together. I could go on about how important it was to me to have that conversation with him. It was just the right timing. At times when I run, I pray and Craig entered my prayers more than once throughout that day.

A little longer down the trail I ran upon Helen MacDermott. Helen was dragged through the drama of me trying to organize a small group to run with in my final run before the big day. At last minute, I changed plans and she was unable to make that day and time. Life is hectic and schedules can sometimes be difficult to plan around. My life with a family and 2 babied, just makes it challenging. It was good to finally meet Helen. We chatted and ran together a short time as well.

As I was running along. I'm always thinking to myself... "Am I running too fast" because I've got a long way to run and if I run too fast now, I just won't have any energy later in the day. sooner or later I get behind another runner, or group of runners. usually when I find myself behind one or two runners. They may seem to be a tad slower than my desired pace to run at that omen, but I force myself to stay behind them for a little while, just to help control my pace for a moment. At times, thought I come upon a long string of runners and thought difficult to pass. I usually do. So along one long string of runners. I run into John Farmer. John and I crossed the line together at the Willis River Wilderness 50k just last month. It was nice to see him again. Just an encouraging face and name. He was surprised I remembered him. but of course I did.

After that I didn't see familiar faces until the turn around.

The course is 2 loops. Run it once one way, and then run it in the opposite direction. Before the turn around I crossed paths with Jenn from Freedom to be, and soon I was headed down a staircase to cross over a small reservoir  and then around the last part of the lake. Soon I was back to the start with another Aid Station. At this point I felt strong, but I knew I was going to slow down. It was nice to See JJ Jessee at the Aid Station.

JJ, along with Jenn are part of the Iron Mountain Trail Runner community in the Damascus, VA area. That group of trail runners really seem to have a great network of running friends with people always looking for others to run with, or someone asking for advice. I've benefitted a lot from their FB page alone and the conversations they have had there from time to time. I'd hope that we could have something like that in Roanoke, and I feel that we are getting there.

A short conversation with JJ helped estimate my finish time. I secretly wanted to finish at 6 hours. I stopped for a moment, enjoyed a short conversation and some more food and drink. I headed back down the trail.

Pit Stop!

Knowing the next aid station was 4 or miles ahead, I still decided to press on. Even before I got to the turn around Aid Station I felt that I may need to use the bathroom soon. I began to develop a theory that if my body is able to focus resources on digestion, then I'm just not running hard enough. So I kept pressing on, thinking of the 6 hour goal, which I knew I would fall short of.

The next AS was at mile 20 or so. I had no doubt that any of the ASs would have had anything I needed. and so I asked for some toilet paper. As the young volunteer went to look in the back of the vehicle, she turned to yell out to another volunteer, "Hey, where's the... never mind" She didn't want to yell the words "toilet paper" Which was the polite thing to do. Sure enough she found it and I was off into the woods in a totally different direction until I could no longer be seen.

I kept reminding myself that though I'm losing time on my goal, I will be more comfortable overall. Sometime in all my reading, I recalled how to properly go about doing this.... dig a hole, down to the depth of where it is packed dirt, and then cover it all up with the dirt (and leaves and whatever) you displaced.

Of course I immediately felt better when I got on the trail, but I had lost track of all runners before and after me. I was running along a different group of people now. It was a bit of a mental challenge. I knew I wouldn't catch up to them. For some tho would not have been a concerning element at all, but out there in the middle of nowhere it was nice to feel like I kind of know who I had recently passed, and who had recently passed me. Those things give me comfort. It is like I feel that I fit in at this spot within the field of runners. That was disrupted. Once I felt comfortable that I was doing the same thing and only the faces had changed, I was back on track.

Heading home

I enjoy all that I learn from talking to other runners at such events. I spoke with another runner who was strictly sticking to her plan to run for 4 mins and walk 1 min. I tried to stay with her, but I was slowly losing the ability to run for 4 full minutes. but I was surprised how long I was able to stick to that. It is encouraging to find someone to run and chat with in those last miles. Even after pressing on and on, I still found the strength to keep pressing on.

It was nice to finish. A little less climactic than how it was at Willis River 50k when I had a group of friends awaiting, that was nice!

What was done differently

The main thing I did differently was changing some of what I was drinking throughout the race. I carried a 22 oz. Nathan handheld filled with alternating products. I switched back and forth from Pro and Neuro. I felt that I was getting my electrolytes from Salt Stick caps, so I used my drink as energy products. I felt that it worked well. 

The more amazing thing was in the few days after the run. I experienced a muscle recovery faster than I've ever had. I often take ibuprofen for about 3 days after a long run like this one. but this time it took less than a day to recover. It sure felt that way. I took ibuprofen ONCE the night of the race, and never again. I felt great. again what I did differently was that I've been drinking a Vi-Shape shake after my runs, usually 2 during the rest of the day, and often the following day as well. and I've been taking the Vi-pak of vitamins also from ViSalus Sciences.

Most people who really get into a sport or activity eventually find their product line that really works for them. and I'm really enjoying these products.

The Vi-shape shake is marketed as a post-workout recovery drink for protein and nutrients needed as well as marketed as a meal replacement for weight loss. I've seen it have amazing results in my family for weight loss, and I've read the stores of others, whom I don't personally know and seen pictured of those using it to improve fitness. I can now say I am learning it's potential for runners also.

What is next

Explore Your Limits 10k on 3/3/12, Then Terrapin Mountain 50k on 3/24/12, and on to Promise Land 50k continuing with the Lynchburg Ultra Series.

Swinging Bridge 35k / 50k AKA Willis River 35k & 50k Wilderness Trail Runs

The event used to be called Swinging Bridge, but since the race route no longer takes runners to the swinging bridge, the name was changed to Willis River.

Date: January 14, 2012.  
Location: Bear Creek Lake State Park in Cumberland, VA
Event: 50k (35k and 50k distances offered)
Presented by: Richmond Road Runners
Event Website: HERE
Cost: Only $25Other race reports on this event: Lost In The Woods Running (Mike Bailey)


Cheap
It seems like you don't have to search much to find the expensive races, but to find the events with less fuss not only do you have to search deeper, but you have to register quick too.
Not only was Willis River 50k a cheap event (same price for 35k and 50k) but it was also full many weeks before race day.

A first REAL ultra?

I ran 50k for the first time at Hinson Lake's 24 hour event. I completed the 50k in 7 hours. That was my main goal, 50k. This was in late September. My total miles for the event was 55 miles.

I ran 50k for the second time at the Crooked Road 24 hour event. The structure of the day did not allow me to keep time like I did at Hinson. My total miles for the event was 62 miles.

Believing that I could cover the distance, I did feel a little concerned that it was a measured distance and a bit less supported than a 24 hour event. (had good aid stations, but not the FOOD that you get at those 2 24 hour events). Thinking to myself that it would be different as I'd likely log in many more miles alone, rather than shared with whomever was on the loop course, that you get at those 24 hour events. Still I was confident that I could, and would.

Pre-race research

Of course I researched as much as I could for the event. I found limited info. One of the most helpful sources I found was a race report from Mike Bailey, whom I had just shared the course with at the Crooked Road 24 hour event. He wrote a report on his blog after he ran it in 2009 in blistering cold weather.

Weather omg!

The event takes place in January... in 2009 (see Mike's blog above) temps were as low as NEGATIVE 1 degrees! I'm learning that the course has some mandatory creek crossings where you WILL get wet. I'm excited and nervous both. I would much rather submit myself to such conditions at an organized event, rather than on my own training run somewhere all alone. I figured worst case is I sign up, waste $25 and not run, but either way, I was going to be there before I decided to DNS (Did Not Start).

Dead Last finish is better than Did Not Finish which is even better than Did Not Start. 

I prepared for the cold temps by buying my first pair of running pants. OK they are tights, but I researched around and decided on Patagonia Speed Work Tights. Retail $69 affordable and a simple design, no external pockets or fancy anything, just quality material.

I also bought a Smartwool neck gaiter and headband. When worn together is could simulate a balaclava, which is pretty much a ski mask. 

I had recently upgraded my gloves from simple polyester liners to a much nicer Mountain Hardwear momentum running glove.

I was concerned about what the weather would bring, and there was only one thing I could do about it, and that was to prepare. I made sure some cold training runs took me through water so I could run with wet feet and I tried not to let the cold weather hold me back in my running.

Plans - driving arrangements

After I assembled a list of those that might be attending, and learned what running friends would indeed be running this event. I began to talk with them about their past experiences there and how to prepare. We also made driving and traveling arrangements. I was excited to be invited to ride with Josh and Gina Both of them having run this race previously were able to offer a lot of important support.

The drive up and pre race prep.

Meeting early on Saturday AM in Roanoke, we were on our way. Josh, Gina, Dru, Mike and myself. I was thankful to not have to drive. Josh having made everyone some muffins, I think they were chocolate chip banana nut, pretty good stuff! Wish I had one now actually. Discussion about who ran what race, and comparing ultras and some talk about who really knows how to put on a good race. We all seemed to enjoy one another's company and conversation.

Race headquarters was in a nice heated building with restrooms (additional "john's" outside) and water fountains.

Arrival was just over an hour early. Perfect. Packet pickup and time to dress, prep the body and mind. Rid of all the pre-race heebie-jeebies, take pre-race pics and enjoy a lot of nervous chatter and reunions. 

Photo courtesy of Tom Rickard, Mike is missing from the pic.

Questions about about what items of hydration to bring. Wear a pack, or just the hand held bottle? I opted for the hand held bottle as I knew there would be an aid station every 5 miles so I could refill.

The course - weather, trees, mud and water


The new name of the event includes that it is s "wilderness trail" I believe that is to let others know that is may be a bit unmaintained in places, and possibly difficult to follow. The course mostly followed white blazes on the trees, and there were white streamers tied to trees every so often, especially in the difficult areas. I think the white was hard to see, I'd prefer a brighter color. It was obvious that the course had some preparation to it. There were a couple areas that made me feel like we were being used to forge a new portion of trail rather than following an established trail.

I heard it many times, and I must say it here as well (and if you hear one thing about the course other than the potentially cold temps it will be this) but there are many down trees that every runner must step over or climb over. These provided nice breaks in the running though. Well, I thought that at first, but after you get a good number of miles under your feet, your legs don't want to lift that high off the ground!

Other than temps and trees there was mud and water. At various times in the past 3 days leading up to the race it rained. I was thankful it wasn't raining today, but the rain left countless mud pits and filled up the creeks just right. Mud pits so deep that the ever present leaf covered trail became shoe sucking black dirt soupy sections that at first you try to dance over, but soon enough you tie in and just tromp right through. I still don't know how I'm going to clean those shoes.

The creeks included many countless crossings, perhaps 10 times? Not all of them required you to submerge your feet, but a couple of them did for sure. At this race and for this time (another day might be completely different) you could find some areas that would put you in as deep as mid calf. Usually there was a better option. Personally after all the mud, it was kind of cleansing to run through cleaner water. The cold temps of the water only penetrated for a very short time. I wonder if that was in part because I was wearing Smart wool socks, and I've read that wool stays warmer when wet than other fabrics? Who knows.


35k complete stop or go?
I was aware that this course didn't have a lot of elevation, but then was surprised that it has 1800 vertical. I would have considered it more flat than that. It had plenty of simple short ups and down (muds and puds - multiple ups and downs, pointless ups and downs).

After 5 miles out the first aid station. Aid stations were stocked with only water and soda for drink. food included cookies, m&ms pretzels and potato chips. Gummy items and I forget what else.

It was nice that before the turn around, I could see the lead runners as they pass. I was excited to see that Josh was in 3rd place at about that time, and not far from the guys ahead of him.

After returning to the start and completing the 35k. Many choose to call it quits, but I knew what the plan was and I was determined to stick to it. I knew I had 5 more miles out and 5 more miles back. I was feeling good having crossed the line in under 4 hours. I rested a moment and refueled at the aid station, then went back down the trail. It was good to see some friends in our group (Mike and Walker) there resting after having completed the 35k a while ago.

Once I headed back in tot eh woods for the final leg of the 50k. I noticed who came into the aid station behind me. He eventually passed me.


The final 10
I think the last 10 miles were more attractive than the first 20. Arriving at the turnaround aid station. I was pleased to be seeing some greenery and a nice river not too far away. I stopped at the aid station. the Race Director was there encouraging the runners. I thanked him for his work on putting the race together. I enjoyed some m&m's, Pringles, one Advil and I forget what else.

The first 5 of the last 10 were heavily hiked. The last 5 of the race, I felt stronger than the previous 5, and I ran more than before. Perhaps it was more downhill? I do know that I think the last 10 miles were more hilly than the first 20. That could be perception though too as my legs were quite tired by that point. There was definitely less mud water and down trees. it was easier to run without interruption. There was a section of forest road (well, there was a section on the first out and back too) which was a nice change of pace for a short time.

It was again exciting to see the oncoming runners. Constantly wondering how well Josh was running, I finally saw 2 figures emerging through the woods toward me. Josh was in the lead!!!

The runner that passed me in the final 10, never got too far ahead, as I could tell from the turn around how far ahead he was.

At the finish
As I was nearing the last mile. I came up on the runner that was behind me before I began the last 10. We enjoyed one another's company and conversation for that last mile. I really appreciated that as I had so little conversation during this run. We crossed the line together.

It was great to see familiar faces at the finish and Gina there to take my picture. It made me feel right at home like I was at a Mountain Junkie race. Pictures at moments like that are priceless, Thank you!

The clock read something short of 6:30 and I was pleased that it was below 7 hours, but soon thought that it took an extra 30 mins to cover 10 miles, when on the first half of the race I ran 10 miles every 2 hours. Despite my instant negativity, I enjoyed the moment. Soon I asked how the end of Josh's race turned out, and I was happy to hear that he won! His first ultra win!

Driving home... 
After a short cool down, food was on my mind. I knew the other in my group were waiting only on me and ready to go. I wanted to refuel. I partook in what the aid station at the finish had to offer, but knew I wanted more. Soon we were in the car and headed down the road.

Like the good husband, I make contact with my wife. Soon to learn that Lydia is at the race and looking for me! What a nice surprise! She had arrived about 15 mins behind what may have been ideal. We had the option of turning around to meet her, or just to stop at a gas station and let her meet us there. I was thankful for my friends for waiting for me, and the finish would not have been the same without them there. I was also glad to see my family happy for me and providing comfort.


Things I did differently - NEW products
Not too much to say here. I'm getting a little more consistent with what I do at long runs now. I have enjoyed the Salt Stick caps. I'm convinced that they help ward off cramps and assist in keeping me hydrated. I began taking them much less than suggested, but now I'm taking them as suggested with one an hour. I would have had some electrolyte product (Gatorade or NUUN) in my bottle on any other given day, but today this is where I did things differently. I'm trying out a line of products by Visalus Sciences. I used PRO in my bottle, which is a powder to mix in water. I did this for my first and 3rd bottle refills. It is recommended not to exceed 4 servings a day, so I felt that 2 was conservative in testing out something new. How did it work? I'm not sure. It surely did not hinder me at all. It tasted better than plain water. I know it lacks the electrolytes in other products, as it is an energy product not electrolyte replacement drink, but then again I'm taking the Salt Caps for that. I will continue to use the PRO and see how I feel about it.

PRO is only one item in a long list of products from a company which I have begun to work with. I am promoting their products to be used for a 90-day challenge after you set a goal for 90 days. Is it weight loss or athletic performance, go to my website at eliminate waist.bodybyvi.com and learn more about these awesome life changing products. I have seen it effect the lives of others, if I had not, I would not be talking about it here. Check it out.



What is next?
Holiday Lake 50k in 4 weeks. I am confident as this trail claims about 2000 ft in elevation, just slightly and probably not even noticeably different that I just ran. I have not committed to the entire Lynchburg Ultra Series, but I do want to do it. I've even signed up for Terrapin Mountain 50k in March, the second event of 4 in the series. I ran the half-marathon distance at Terrapin in 2011. I am excited to return there in 2012 for the full experience.

Mountain Masochist Trail Run (sweeping the second half)

Mountain Masochist Trail Run - Saturday November 5th

This is an account of "working" the event. I was only covering the second half, picking up trash and taking down all course markings.

Read reports of people who actually ran it here:
Sophie @ Shining's Ultra blog
Jenn @ Freedom to Be

The Mountain Masochist Trail Run is a 50 mile, point A to point B (not a loop) course from the James River Visitor Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway (Mile Post 63.6) to Montebello, VA.

The event is put on by Eco-x. It is a part of the Lynchburg Ultra Series, and The Beast Series.

My experience here starts while I was at work one day checking my Facebook page. I notice am open request for someone needed to sweep the first half of the Mountain Masochist 50 miler! Immediately I send a response via FB, and another via email to the most likely address I have to get in touch with Dr. Clark Zealand, Race Director of the MMTR50. Soon he responds saying that someone beat me to it, believe it or not, but I could help with sweeping the second half with another person.

I thought the first half would be better than the last, for various reasons, but I was excited to be able to take part of this event in ANY way and I was glad to be a part of it.

For the next week or more emails were exchanged, I "met" Courtney the person whom I was to share the sweeping responsibilities with, and plane were being made.

So, this run goes where?

I spent a lot of time, and apparently Courtney did as well, studying maps. It was difficult using Google maps, Blue Ridge Parkway maps, the Eco-X website etc., to decipher where I would be. The most helpful information was a document that Dr. Zealand sent to she and I which detailed instructions for persons crewing for a runner. This gave instructions on how they could go from one aid station to another to support their runner with supplies or encouragement etc. most importantly is that this document had GPS coordinates! Because when told for example, a certain overlook or location (or down some random fire road) around the Parkway, I had to study some maps to locate it. I was thankful for the GPS coordinates it was very simple after that.

The plan

The plan which Courtney and I devised was to meet at the end of the race, leave one car there and take another to the mid-point of the race where we would start our trek. From the mid-point we would make a small attempt to find someone to drive our car back to the finish so it awaits us there. This all worked out perfectly.

I arrived at the finish just moments before her, and only moments after one of those working the race had started setting up the finish line. This race started at 6:30AM, I believe and it was 11:30 now. To think that 5 hours after the race starts you can comfortably begin to set up the finish should tell you that this is a long race!

Soon Courtney arrived, we exchanged hellos dressed, decided on what to bring and not bring, etc. Soon we were on the way to the Long Mountain Aid Station, the half-way point of the race. This AS closed at 12:35, and our goal was to arrive before then, which we did.

Long Mountain Aid Station

One item of concern here was to see if we could arrange a driver for my car back to the finish. Oddly enough it was quite simple. I started with race staff, to see if my Subaru wagon would be helpful in moving supplies, but of course arrangements were all ready in place. I decided to ask some hanging around who may have been crewing for another runner if they could drive it. The one person I approach is someone I was looking forward to meeting, and knew I could potentially meet this day. Craig Burns of e-Motion Constant Forward Motion blog, was there on a picnic table with friends, relishing in all the emotions of completing the first half of the race - cancer free I might add! (read his blogged race report on the MMTR once he writes it), and he was welcoming to help me out. I am quite thankful for his generosity, I am hoping that my timing wasn't bad.

At this time we acclimated ourselves to the event. Checked in with race officials. Gathered data on the last runner on course. Shook off and pre-race jitters of our own, and headed up the mountain. I knew we had a 5 mile 2000 vertical foot climb ahead of us to start so we loitered along, picking up course marking streamers and any trash we saw. We had checked with race officials and knew that the last runner was 20 mins ahead of us, and I thought for sure we'd catch up with them. Any other runners coming into the Long Mountain Aid Station at that point were pulled from the course and unable to continue, as the AS advertised it would close at 12:35. It wasn't long after this time that we hit the trail ourselves.

The climb was on a fire road, and we were even passed by a vehicle or two on this stretch. Once we got to the top, we realized we weren't at the top. The top was "marked" by the next AS (Wiggins Spring, I think) and thought the AS was closed by the time we arrived, there was evidence of cups and items from the AS, like an orange peel here and there. So I knew we got to the top of the climb, but it wasn't the top. It kept going on. More fire road.

Single Track
The trail was well marked with the streamers that we were taking down, but with so many cars which aligned the dirt / gravel road and "crew" members hustling to and from vehicles. I was building questions in my head. Yet I knew I was doing the task which was required of me, so I pressed on. Here we hit the first stretch of single track trail.

Soon I learned what all the attention was. Some cars remained as remnants of the AS that closed, while not far up ahead was an area where one could see their runner come by twice.

It was around this area that we finally got off forest road and onto single track. Courtney commented on how the changing of footing was nice, and I agreed. Intersections and areas where trails split proved to be time consuming. As the course was well marked, that meant there was a lot of markings to gather.

An aside about gathering the streamers
There is probably an essay that can be written about how to properly place and take down streamers for trail races. I'll try not to write that essay here, but there is something that can be said about it. Simple things which I learned quickly:
     How it's easier to remove a streamer when the knot is loose, rather than tied tightly.
     Branches with thorns should be avoided for placing streamers.
     Branches above head height (say 5ft) should be avoided.
     Tying streamers no more than one step off the trail (OK this was only done twice maybe).

I tried at first to untie all streamers, but soon I was breaking the branch to rip it off. If I were able, I'd grab the knot and pull, hoping to break the band around the branch. Perhaps this is essay enough about streamers, but it was proving to be rather time consuming stopping and playing with every single streamer. ...and then I eventually put on my gloves - that surely didn't help any. I can only imagine had I been doing this alone.

The loop

I think the 5 mile loop was a most interesting part of the course. A great 5 mile stretch of trail quite rocky with many roots, yet no significant climb that I recall. I really liked this portion of the trail. I was nicely set up with an AS as you enter the loop, and within 20 feet was the exit, with another AS. Kind of like "headquarters" a lot of crew, and a lot of staff. After being alone out there on the trail for a few miles, it would probably be refreshing to see all the commotion. I'll put in my vote for that being the nicest stretch of the trail. There is also an overlook just 0.5m off that loop... so tempting.

Here was encountered some day hikers as well, non race-affiliated humans, just out enjoying the day and much entertained by all the race festivities. "How far are they running?" they would ask, and I love being the one to tell them, "50 miles".

When we exited the 5 mile loop and the AS there was almost all cleaned up. the staff checked with us on our supplies, exchanged our full trash bag for an empty one etc. Courtney asked "You know what I'd like, is if you have a PB&J sandwich." We were presented with a jar of PB and a jar of jelly but a "I just don't have any bread"..... Oh! so close... yet here comes another race volunteer with 2 ziplocked wrapped PBJ sandwiches!!! He said it was what he packed for his lunch, but he never ate it, and he's headed home anyway. Beautiful timing, I needed that more than I knew and glad Courtney was in-tune with her body's needs enough to know and ask. It made a difference miles down the trail.

Getting slower by the AS

Much of the trail from this point on becomes a blur, as Courtney and I were soon learning that we were not gaining on the "last runner". Of course we considered that there were still runners dropping from the race at the aid stations. So the runner whom we thought we were closest to catching up with would drop, and then it was the person in front of them that we were then chasing. We learned by talking to race staff that at each AS we were becoming further behind the last runner.

We guessed that about 10-15 miles had passed and we had not run at all. Of course that climbing we started out with hindered running for us. When we started running we only were able to run in short bursts, as we had to stop for every streamer and other random items that didn't belong in nature, like someone's bottle of Advil. Random Cliff Shots, some opened, some not. Many gel pouch tops. (still need a better design for those things).

We developed a pattern of running while alternating who got the next streamer, and this worked until we came upon a group of streamers, then it was one after the other of gathering as much as we could.

Eventually the following aid stations were not only just closing, or just having closed but long closed and dust settled. I was thankful for the staff that hung around and made sure the sweepers were still coming through, checking to see if we needed anything, water food etc. Keep in mind we were carrying a trash bag this entire time that was progressively getting more full. Try running with a trash bag full of junk and beer cans/bottles sometime. (Of course I'm trying to cover all the excuses why we were moving so slow).


I love it when a plan comes together

Soon after heading back down the trail (fire road again) she commented on how awesome it was that 2 random runners planned to meet in a random location and it worked. Then we have to get to the mid-point AS and we easily find our way. Then I've got to find someone to drive my car back to the finish and I find someone, and we know each other, just hadn't met yet. Then when she's hoping she can get a PBJ out in the middle of the woods, she does... We started considering what we should ask for next.

The conversation
Topics in our conversation were quite varied. College and career. Diversity. Stupid people. Debt. Stereotypes. Training. Shoes. Charles Dickens and literary geniuses. Concerns of taking Ibuprofen when at risk of dehydration. Wildlife and bears. The important reasons of adopting a healthy lifestyle and diet. Our next race. Birth order and it's influence on your personality. Foot strike and shin splints. Running trails at night. Getting shaving cream in your eye. The list goes on.

This was taken early on in the second half

It was dark before you knew it.
Courtney confessed that she hadn't run trails at night with a head lamp before, but was excited and almost hoping today was the day. When we had that conversation I wasn't sure if we were going to be in the dark or not, but it ends up that our last 5 miles or so was all in the dark. To think that I wasn't going to bring gloves or a hat (Courtney convinced me otherwise). I probably should have put them on before now, but this is when we stopped for our lights, so I put on my hat and gloves here too.

I think we ran our fastest when it was totally dark. I believe the concern of all the smaller trash items became too difficult to track down with our head lamps and we focused on the streamers. I convinced myself that it was the last stretch of the race and it was less likely to have a lot of gel packs there.

It was cold enough that icicles were present 

We endured the long downhill and contemplated, as we did various times on the trail about how the runners would have felt at this point. I saw some chalk on the ground of the fire road which I believe would have been the message to runners stating that there is only one more mile to go. Once on the street again I knew it wasn't long. and we arrived at the finish in Montebello... No one awaiting us, but our cars. No person in sight, not even other vehicles, just us. It was kind of neat actually, in it's own little way.

It was dark and quiet
A lot of races and events are held with much fanfare. There are also many events that are simple and  have no frills. It was perfectly OK to not be welcomed or congratulated at the end of my day. I was pleased to have helped this year's classic event take place. I was happy to have helped the runners which I am looking up to and aspire to run with on a different year. I thought of the runners that started and didn't finish. I considered how they felt, the mix of emotions. I recall one runner saying "I just hate that I'll miss out on the finishers award" I reminded myself that my reward was this moment. Standing in the dark and quiet, knowing I was a part of something that didn't end until we were done. Our footsteps were the final foot steps on that trail. I was satisfied knowing that I assisted in leaving no trace. I sure hope that those trails are cleaner now than when the first runner ran through. It was a special opportunity to not only volunteer and share in part of the MMTR, but I also take some satisfaction in feeling like I went on a 25 mile cleaning spree through the woods. There were items that we removed from nature that didn't belong there and would have stayed if we didn't pick them up.

We took little to no time to wind down and soon realized just how cold it had become and made sure we had directions to get out of the middle of nowhere. (which is surely what it felt like) All I knew is that I was near the fish hatchery in Montebello, VA and I could point in the direction of Interstate 81.

Post race festivities were taking place an hour away in Lynchburg, VA. The excitement and stories of the day were being exchanged. I later learned that Eric Grossman came in first for his 3rd MMTR win. Sandi Nypaver Came in first for the women.

What I did and didn't do
First off, I underestimated many things. The time it would take to cover the course while removing course markings. The pace of the slowest runner vs my own. Those were the most obvious. Had I not been so relaxed about this journey, I would have diligently taken GU gels or Cliff Shots at certain intervals but I used none. I would have filled my hydrations pack's bladder completely and drank more diligently, but apparently 1.5L was more than enough. I would have carried and consumed electrolyte / salt caps, but I did not. I would have prepared food items to bring and carry, but I had none. I wasn't stressed with what I ate for breakfast and lunch before I hit the trail.  In fact, I decided as I pulled off I-81 that I should get lunch and got a fish sandwich and fries from Burger King. I would have never done that. Seeing that on the menu they have a veggie burger, I wish I had known that. So after the event... I got the veggie burger.

Overall I am excited and pleased with how I've felt afterward. I felt the most sore and tired that evening. I took one Salt Cap once I got home at Lydia's instruction, and I believe it helped. I've now put 25 more miles on my Montrail Masochist trail shoe. Which ironically shares the name of the race and some strong connections there. In the following days after I've felt great. Amazing what the body can do. Amazing what all those 250+ bodies that ran the MMTR did do!

There is a possibility that if my training goes well, I may be running this next year, and it will have helped greatly to have had this day.