7.5 Month Recap

It’s been some time since I’ve posted anything on this blog. Life has been busy lately…family and work commitments. 

Since early spring, I’ve been fortunate enough to obtain my first sponsor – Massage to the Max.  I’ve been seeing Jacquelyn for the past 6 months and I can say without a doubt that my twice monthly massages has greatly helped me maintain a healthy and injury-free body.  I feel really blessed for this support.  If you want a great massage, please see Jacquelyn @ facebook.com/massagetothemax.       

Capitol Peak 50 Miler

I slowly built my mileage back up and found myself on the starting line of the Capitol Peak 50 miler in late April.  Even though I wasn’t in great shape, I gave it my all and was able to nab 3^rd place honors.  Great course. Great volunteers. Great racing.  I was lucky enough to run with my good friend – Nick Triolo - till mile 25.  Nick subsequently won the race in a time that shows he’s on par for a great race at Western States.

McDonald Forest 50K:

Two weeks out from Capitol Peak, I raced McDonald Forest 50K.  I signed up at the last minute, not sure if I would have the legs to get myself through in good time.  Well, as it turned out, I was right.  My legs were shot from Capitol Peak and a hard weekend of training the weekend before. However, somehow I managed to eek out a personal record (PR) by a mere 17 seconds!  Again, Nick won this race, showing that his training is coming along nicely. 

Western States (pacing):

I had the pleasure – and honor - of pacing Nick at Western States from Rucky Chucky to the finish.  He fought like a tiger and finished strong, placing 34^th overall in a time of 18hrs 50mins – a personal record in the 100miler for Nick by 7+ hours.  It was a great weekend spent with Nick’s family and close friends.     

White River 50 Miler:

I raced White River with my twin brother, Thad.  Miles 0-30 were great.  Miles 30-46 sucked, as I faded from 9^th to 22^nd overall.  Rebounded for miles 46-50.  22^nd overall in 8hrs 12mins.  Some times you have good races.  Other times…well, not so much.  Thad had a great race in 9hrs 45mins. 

It’s been a busy summer.  Circumnavigating Mt St Helens, Mt Hood, an overnight backpacking trip with my son (his first)…..and eventually spending weekends at our newly built beach house at Oceanside!  Now I’m gearing up for a little race I’m putting together - www.volcanic50.com.   

               

Reflecting on 2011

As I finish off the year of races, it is time to reflect on the previous few months.

The year didn't start off well for me. I was injured till mid/late March with severe tendonitis in the ankle. I was a DNS at the HURT 100. It was to be a week of celebrating (10 year wedding anniversary) and a day of racing. However we decided to forgo the trip to Hawaii and I spent my time and energy in a major remodel on the house.

As my ankle improved...so did my fitness, albeit at, what it seemed like the speed of a glacier. I didn't have any expectations on my running was to be like for the summer. My main goal was to remain healthy and enjoy time on the trails.

At the last minute, I signed up for the Beacon Rock 50K (luckily it hadn't filled) in June. I ran well there, placing 3rd.

As my confidence soared from this race, I began to put more miles & time on the trails. My twin brother who resides in Vietnam and had been running consistently, we both decided to run the PCT 50. Soon after his arrival in the U.S., the entire family (parents, both of my brother's families and my family) spent 8 days in Central Oregon. Here Thad and I explored some new trails for the first time as well as some old......Newberry National Monument, Smith Rocks, multiple runs along with the Deschutes River Trail....as well as a few mountain bike rides. It was this week that I put in some serious miles getting ready for the PCT 50 miler.

The PCT 50 miler came and went. Another great race for me, 4th overall, and just missing the 7 hour barrier by 2 minutes! Thad did extremely well there for his first ultra in a time of 9.5 hrs.

Instead of racing, I tend to enjoy the solitude of running in the mountains by myself or with friends, at steady pace, thinking a lot while being out for 6-10+ hours. So for the next number of weeks, that is what I did:

Mt Hood Circumnavigation - Joe K, Joe G, Nick, Yassine, Willie, Ian (August)
Climbed Mt Adams - with Nelson (August)
3 Sisters Circumnavigation - solo (August)
Mt St Helens Circumnavigation - solo (August)
Climbed Prusik Peak - with Phil (first alpine climb in probably 5+ years) (Sept)
Mt Adams Circumnavigation - with Nelson (Sept)
Forest Park Marathon - Oct.

Unfortunately, I wasn't able to get around Mt Rainier.

So what is in store for next year? Well, I've got some ideas.....

Zane Grey
Pocatello
Cascade Crest
R2R2R
Continous runs of all the volcanoes
3 Sisters/Broken Top/Bachelor link-up
Some alpine climbing in the Cascades - Forbidden Peak, Mt. Stuart N. Ridge, Liberty Ridge on Rainier

If next year is anything like this past year (albeit the injury), I'll be satisfied.

Gotta say a big thanks to my family for making this past summer so special. They've supported me the entire time.

3 Sister's Loop - Solo

I was debating about doing this loop. From what I read, it seemed long, but runnable. It was this loop or the Loowit Trail around Mt St Helens. But in the end, I wanted to do something new and so this was it! Running solo, in a new place, isn't that big of deal to me. I actually enjoy running solo. If I had to have a running partner on these longer, mountain runs I wouldn't get out much.....Forest Park doesn't fulfill the adventurous/youthful spirit in me.


I left the Pole Creek TH right about 6:45am after driving from my in-laws house in Salem (they were watching the kids as Christy was in Hood River spending the weekend with friends).


The trail was in great shape all the way till Green Lakes. I run much of the way albeit some short, steep sections gaining the "col" between S. Sister and Broken Top. Yes, some sections were sandy, but still runnable for the most part. There were many streams flowing due to the high snow pack this year so I periodically filled my 2 handheld water bottles in the numerous streams (not knowing the availability of water on the west side of these mountains).


I made it quickly around Green Lakes and down the trail before cutting west over to Moraine Lake. Once around Moraine Lake (on the south side) I came upon a 4-way junction. I looked at the map I had brought (which didn't have the 4-way junction). I opted to go further south towards Devils Lake - trying to head over to the trail that would drop me down to the PCT and the Wickiup Plan. I ended up picking the right trail as I crossed the trail that leads to the summit of S. Sister and soon found myself descending to the Wickiup Plan.


In a nutshell, the west side of this loop is incredible --plains, meadows, streams, pumice fields, forests, etc. A few more people but the scenery is much more enjoyable but definitely more exposed running through the plains and lava fields.


The weather had been perfect all day but the mercury started to rise. The hot, exposed rays of the big bright star eventually took its toll on me as I was nearing the area of Scott Spring/Camp Scott on the N/NW side of the N. Sister. This stupor lasted till I reached Alder Creek (below). This part of the trail was most striking and different from all other aspects of this adventure but I wasn't in any mood to savor the beauty of the landscape and enjoy it. I was just trying to stay cool by spraying water on my face and down my back. Water was scarce on this section from Scott Spring to Alder Creek (the water at Sawyer's Bar looked like it was infested with some protozoan/bacteria). I came upon 2 hikers on Scott Pass who were clearly in need of water. They asked if a water source was close and I mentioned it was over 3.5 miles away. They seemed a little surprised. I didn't stay long to contemplate their decision (or fate), so I dropped down the east side of Scott Pass. I had noticed on the map that Alder Creek was 4.1 miles away...hoping and praying that the creek was still flowing.

I made relatively quick time on the descent from Scott Pass. I came upon a fork in the trail about a mile (good thing for my Garmin) down from Scott Pass. I grabbed my map again. The trail I was needing to take was supposed to be 1.8miles from Scott Pass. I decided to trust my Garmin and map so I kept moving straight ahead. Sure enough, about 1.8miles from Scott Pass there was the trail that would lead to my car.
NOTE: That other trail wasn't on my map.

I was now running low on water. Once I got onto this new trail, I was 2.3 miles from Alder Creek. Again, I was hoping there was water still flowing. Those few miles seemed to drag on forever. A lone hiker and I crossed paths saying a brief hello. Any how, I made it to the creek, walking right into it. The ice cold water was refreshing. The 5 minute break was great!

I set off from Alder Creek (5 miles to the car) with a power-hike...hiking all the uphills as the trail was no different than walking on the beach. I ran the last 2.5 miles to the car as soon as I crested the last ridge.

Feels good to have done it. Hardest solo run ever. Time of 9hrs 40mins. Total 46 miles (Garmin captured 40 of it).

Mt Adams - FKT??

Nelson and I cruised up Mt Adams Friday evening. With a few stops going up and down, our time: 4hrs 13mins (car-to-car). Is this the fastest known time (FKT)?? Not sure. Anyone else know?? Data below.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/106906020#.TkrWBCazZ64.blogger

Mt Hood 50 Mile Race Report

Not interested in writing much at this moment. It's unlikely that I'll write a more indepth report in the coming days/weeks ahead.

Had a great time meeting new people and racing against great (and fast) friends.

Recap of race:
Great 1st half that seemed a bit fast but went with it. Last 22ish miles could've been better.....cramps and stomach issues. Ate a meager 3 GUs, 6 orange wedges and 6 Coke/Sprite mini-cups.

Result:
4th overall in a time of 7hrs 2mins. Thanks Todd for putting on a great race. A big thanks to all the volunteers for making this event possible.

I'm most impressed with my twin brother for finishing his first ultra. His training ground being the streets of Hanoi, Vietnam. Great job Thad!!

Beacon Rock 50K Race Report

With some trepidation, I signed up for this race as I was a bit nervous as I hadn't raced since Pine2Palm in September. With significant elevation gain (stated 7500ft) over the course of just 31miles, I knew this would suite me, as my strength is in climbing. I had no "game plan" for the race. I honestly just wanted to have a good time on the trails and see how the race unfolded.

The first few miles was working out the kinks and getting into a good rhythm on the gradual gravel road. As we hit the single track about 3.5 miles into the race I would alternate between running and power-hiking, depending on the steepness of the trail. I crested the summit of Hardy Mtn and begun the approx mile descent of steep, technical terrain (I'm surprised I didn't twist an ankle or fall) to the aid station.

I hit the first aid station in 4th place (mile 5.5), filling my water bottle with Nuun and grabbed a GU. The slight downhill (half gravel road/other half single-track) to the start of the climb up to the summit of Hamilton Mtn took longer than expected. I pushed it a little bit but not too much on this part, thinking I would gain on the 3 in front while we started the climb.

The climb to the summit of Hamilton Mtn was steep with numerous switchbacks. The views were spectacular. I power-hiked some and ran some. I knew I made up some lost time cause I could see Joe up ahead. I still didn't push too hard as I knew we would be going up this steep climb again. I repeated over and over to myself........"Conserve. Be patient. You'll make lost time on the 2nd loop." Even so, I was still a disappointed that I didn't catch Joe on the climb.


The next few miles to the aid station went by quickly. Just as I was entering the aid station I could see Joe off in the distance going around a bend in the road. I grabbed a few GUs, an S-cap and drank some Coke and took off.


If I wanted to make up lost time on the 3 guys in front, I knew I needed to push the downhills. So after leaving the aid station for the turnaround/halfway point in the race, I found a higher gear and took off. I caught Joe about 2.5 miles from the turnaround. We ran together all the way to the turnaround - pushing each other - but at a nice comfortable pace. The 2 other guys were ahead of us by 4 and 6 minutes.


Joe and I didn't stay for long. My pace was definitely slower going up the gravel road the 2nd time around. Once we hit the single-track climbing up to Hardy Mtn, I was walking more than running. Joe and I caught up to the 2nd place guy - Michael Wedemeyer. But Hozumi Nakai caught up to all of us......and was looking STRONG. We all 3 passed Michael pretty much at the same time...me leading. I pushed the pace a little and Hozumi and I gapped Joe and Michael. I continued the pace but Hozumi was right on my tail so I stepped aside to let him pass. He mentioned something like I didn't need to do that but he was moving way too fast and I was clearly slowing him down. Within a few minutes Hozumi had already gapped me. I quickened the pace down the other side of Hardy on the steep, technical section, thinking that Joe and Michael would catch me.....but they didn't. I rolled into the aid station (mile 20ish) and quickly exited with a few GUs in hand. Just as I was leaving the aid station, Joe was arriving. I yelled, "Let's go Joe!"..... he probably not hearing me.


I got to within about 100meters of Hozumi (he had to take a pee-break along-side the road) but that was as near as I would get to him. I was struggling a little on the single-track leading over to the climb up Hamilton Mtn. I had spotted a Cliff Bar at the previous aid station and started slowly taking bites from it. My stomach began to act up but I knew I needed the calories. As a made the sharp turn to begin the steep climb up Hamilton, Michael appeared out of nowhere behind me, clearly making up time on the way over to Hamilton! His presence actually startled me. Hozumi wasn't going to be caught, he was just too strong today. I knew that if I hammered and made it up to the top of Hamilton before Joe or Michael, my chances of reaching the finish before them were pretty good. The second time going up the mountain seemed longer and harder, but I was able to manage a "fair amount" of running considering the steepness and switchbacks. Once I hit the top, I took off and started bombing down to the last aid station at mile 27ish.


I barely stopped at this last aid station -- just enough time to fill the waterbottle. I then started hammering the last downhill section. With a cramp here (groin area) and a cramp there (right-side of abdomen), I was able to stroll into the finish at 4hrs 55mins. 3rd place overall. Hozumi kicked some serious you-know-what and finished in 4hrs 50mins - 2nd place.

Great course! Great volunteers! Great competition! Great race James! Happy to be back racing again. James Varner's Angels Staircase in mid-August looks pretty cool. I just may sign up for that remote and brutal course.


Thanks Joe for pushing me out there....even tho you probably didn't realize you were doing so. You had me running scared those last miles.

Time

Much time has passed since my last posting. I tend not to write when I'm injured, hence the hibernation. A month before the start of the HURT 100 I got injured. It was an exacerbation of my injury from Pine 2 Palm. What was supposed to be a 4-5 hour run turned into a 2 hour run with a 3 mile walk back to the car. I pretty much didn't run for about 4 months.

It would've been nice to have run HURT...and spend some time with my wife without the kids (the trip was supposed to have been a "delayed" 10-year anniversary trip). With a cancelled trip to Hawaii, I sunk my time and energy (and money) into a major remodel. (The "alternate" 10 year anniversary gift. In my mind, Christy got a great gift. She thinks so too.) With the help from family and friends (William, Jeremy and Joe), I finished the remodel in about 2 months. What a person can accomplish when one isn't training!!

Over the past few months I've put some consistent mileage on the legs. This past week was a big week - at least for me - which consisted of running 85 miles in 4 days and biking 45. I've never been a mega-mile person. Actually, this is the biggest training week I've ever had. So with some consistent mileage behind me, I figured I needed to see how "fit" I really am, so I signed up for the Beacon Rock 50k this Sunday. Looks to be a good course with some good elevation gain.

No matter what the outcome of the race is, I'm just happy to be back running again. I'm certain you will see a grin from ear to ear throughout the race.

Pine 2 Palm Race Report

I'm layed-up on the sofa, foot elevated, looking down at my swollen right ankle, writing this email. I'll spare you all the details of the race...just some highlights. This was my most challenging 100 miler thus far.


First off, I need to say thanks to Orval (father-in-law) and Angela (cousin's girlfriend) for supporting me during the race. I ask for them to stay up all night in wet/windy/cold conditions, and only to support me for a mere few minutes at a time. Angela then had to endure (all at night) a slow slog through the same conditions with a guy who was moaning and groaning (and cursing) for 12 hours. Words can't express my gratitude to the both of you for these sacrifices.


The first 60 miles went by relatively well. I was fueling and drinking properly and taking the necessary electrolyte caps on schedule. It was raining about 90% of the time, albeit the first few miles on the road out of Williams. I had my pace under control....not running the downhills too hard and walking most of the uphills. From miles 60-65, I noticed that my right ankle was a little painful attempting to run downhill....but the pain wasn't alarming. In addition, just around mile 60, my core body temperature dropped and I became cold. This was a result of climbing in elevation, the temperature dropped and the wind and rain increased in intensity. I was able to borrow a light weight shell from a generous volunteer at the 60 mile aid station but it only helped slightly. One mile from the 65 mile aid station, a woman whom I'd never met, stopped her car as I was hiking up the gravel road and offered a garbage bag to put over my upper body. I thanked her and my friend Trevor (we were running together at this stage in the race) made a make-shift coat - as my hands were worthless due to the cold.


I arrived at the 65 mile aid station - exposed on a ridge on Dutchman Peak - shivering violently and in about 5th place. The wind and rain were blowing from all directions. Orval and Angela were there waiting for me with reassurance and calming voices (it sure is nice to have a crew in such conditions). I was able to get dry clothes on with help of Angela and Orval as I huddled around a propane heater. I stayed here for about 15-20 minutes (maybe even longer)...making sure I got my core body temperature up. I tried to eat some food but was feeling pretty nauseous at this point.


This was the start of pacing duty for Angela. It sure was nice to have her with me during the last 35 miles. As she and I left the aid station, the pain in my right ankle was slowly increasing. As we neared the Glade Creek Aid Station at mile 78, I had been relegated to walking the past number of miles on much of the downhills and muster only running for 3-5 minutes on level stretches before needing to take a break from the pain. This is where my spirits took the first nose dive as I was passed by at least 10 runners. There was nothing I could do as this pain persisted throughout the rest of the race. I was afraid to take any pain medications to prevent any kidney issues later on in the race or after.


The climb up to Wagner Peak was another low point. The trail was steep. The temperature dropped. I became cold again. And yes, it was still spitting rain. I hadn't been able to eat much of anything since Glade Creek as nausea episodes would wax and wane. It was during this stretch that my emotions spilled out on the trail. It was at this moment that I thought I wouldn't finish. But getting to the short out and back section to the summit of Wagner Peak, my spirits lifted as I noticed that I hadn't lost much ground to some of the runners that blew passed me between Dutchman Peak (mile 65) and Glade Creek (mile 78).


The downhill from the top of Wagner Peak to the finish was slow and painful. I hiked all the way down to the Road 2060 Aid Station. I was then able to muster a fast hike on this gravel road with a few minutes of running. A last ditch effort was made of "running" about 75% of the last 4 miles to the finish. Again, cold and wet conditions as a torrential rain spell hit Angela and I. So much for a dry finish! I finished in 26hrs and change.


I want to thank all of the volunteers who came out for this inaugural race. The aid stations were well-manned and stocked. They anticipated what the runner needed. The course was well marked - except on a few sections the spacing of the ribbons was a little far.


Lastly, to my #1 fan-base, my family. The support they provide makes this all possible.

Mt St Helens Circumnav

Not sure how many times I've run the Loowit Trail around Mt St Helens. And I'm not sure why I like that trail so much. I think it is just the beauty of the area...but also the diversity for which the trail offers....all single track, steep climbs (not too long), boulder fields, stream crossings, a little route finding, etc. The trail is approximently 32+/-miles in length. My fastest time to date was 6hrs 10mins. This was a few years ago when I couldn't even fathom running much longer....but also it was before the rains from 2006 hit the Northwest and caused some massive slides in the area and a number of "detours" were developed to cross over some major washouts.
Nick was eager to take another stab at the trail. His first major ultra run was last summer with Joe Grant. It sounded like an epic run that lasted 10hrs with a significant amount of suffering. Luckily the run didn't dissuade him from running long again.

I picked Nick up at his house at 0330 and made quick time to the June Lake Trailhead. I'm grateful for Nick's flexibility in the early wakeup call. With 2 kids and a wife back at home, these days which have longer runs start rather early. Thanks buddy!

We started right at 0530. We ran into some campers that were already awake at June Lake. We made the ascent up to the trail that is the main route up to the summit in short order - about an hour.

It was rather pleasant out. There was a ever-so slight mist starting out but as we climbed the clouds started to part and got some glimpses of blue sky. As we made our way around the west side of the mountain, the clouds cleared. We came across a lone hiker who had started the day previous and was also doing the entire loop. We chatted for a few minutes. Soon after, we stopped 9 elk that were scrampering along. It was really neat to see.

The descent down to the Toutle River was nice. We stopped to take a few photos.



At the river, we stopped to fill up our water bottles and dropped a Nuun tablet. Just as we crossed the river, we came across a father and son. They were contemplating how they were going to get down to the river. The "trail" down to the river is rather steep and involves just a little down climbing. I told them that this was the worst of the stream crossings. Again, we chatted for about 2 minutes and we were on our way. I think we made it to the river in 2hrs 45mins.

The steep ascent up to the NW side of the mountain was a grinder. It reminded us of the ascent up to Bull Wheel at Tahoe 50/100....steep, sandy. Even tho our legs were a bit fresher than at Tahoe, it still was seemed steep.

We cruised the trail on the NW/N sides of the mountain. For some reason, this part of the trail always takes longer than what I would expect. Just lots of undulations in the trail as well as steep, rocky, short descents and a little meandering to follow the trail through the blast zone. We filled our bottles at a creek and proceeded to make it to Windy Pass, the high point of the route at 4885ft right at 5hrs. I was struggling a little bit at this point and had to take in a Clif Bar. For just having finished Tahoe 100 just two weeks ago, my legs were feeling pretty good. (Sorry for the 2 videos...my video making skills are, let's just say lacking.)

The run on the Plains of Abraham was great. We pushed the pace during this segment as the trail widens and feels more like a compacted, sandy road. We came across 2 mountain bikers and 4 hikers. I'd never seen more than 6 people at any given time on this trail before.

The last 6 miles to June Lake went by fast. However my left knee was throbbing making the downhills a little painful. We blazed past a few more hikers/climbers on their way up to June Lake. We touch the trailhead sign, making our circumnav of Mt St Helens in 6hrs 50mins. Not bad!

Nick, thanks for a great run!

Tahoe Rim Trail 100 Short Race Report

I'm going to spare every one all the details....just don't feel like taking the time to write a full report. It was a great course in a beautiful area. It was my first 100 (out of the 4 total) that actually went pretty well...all things considering (i.e. heat/altitude). I fueled and hydrated well.

The aid stations were fantastic - most noteably Tunnel Creek and Hobart. The volunteers were incredible!! Thanks to Erik Skaden for the positive words and getting my out of Diamond Peak (mile 80) quickly. You walking with me those few hundred meters out of the aid station got my head back in the race.

I finished 11th overall (10th male) in a time of 25hrs 5min. I'm grateful for my family to be there to support me. It was a pleasure running with my twin brother - Thad - the last 7+ miles. He met me at the last aid station - Snow Valley Peak. It was big a surprise seeing him up there since he and my Dad miscalculated when I was to come in at Diamond Peak. He definitely pushed me those last miles. I didn't walk more than a few minutes.

Most importantly, I'm ever so blessed to have a wife who supports me in these endeavors.

(at the finish)

P50 - An Adventure

Just now getting the time to sit down and write this report after thinking about the race. Sorry for the length.

The Pocatello 50 (or P50) I heard much about from my friend Trevor, who ran the inaugural race last year. What drew me to the course was its difficulty (i.e. hills) and how well organized it was. The steeper the course, the better I seem to do (albeit Wasatch Front 100...that is a different story altogether and my first 100miler). The moment registration opened I signed up for the race. Good thing I did. I believe it filled within 3 days.

My older brother and his family were coming back to the States for a number of weeks during the time of the race. I felt it would be a great experience for him to crew me at an ultra, in addition to spending some quality time with him. So we planned the road trip to Pocatello with his son - Lukas - and my son - Mason - in tow.

We left Thursday morning to break up the drive. First day was spent driving to Boise. It was my son's first long road trip where he would remember anything. He did experience a few 9 hour nausea-induced bus rides in remote Central Mexico a few years back but wasn't of the age to remember. However, it was memorable for a father who gets sick if there are more than a few successive bends in the road. Good thing for Dramamine. At any rate, we made quick time to Boise - 7 hours - after making stops to empty the bladder, eat, etc. It was my first time staying in Boise for any length of time. We ate at Mai Thai Restaurant in downtown Boise just blocks away from the Capitol. I was impressed by the quality of the food, the various options, atmosphere, and service. They even had ample vegetarian and vegan options....of which I opted for a vegan dish that was delicious.

We got up Friday morning and drove the 3+ hour drive to Pocatello. It took a little longer than expected due to some major road construction that funnelled the Interstate down to one lane going in each direction. Stimulus funds?? Geez, couldn't believe the length of the construction. It also was raining......A LOT!! The rain had me peering through the windshield, death-gripped to the steering wheel.

We were able to check into the hotel a little early and I started to get my things ready for the race. We then headed to the start/finish for packet pickup which was a short drive - 20minutes. We stayed for the race briefing and then immediately left afterwards to get a bite to eat as to get to bed at an early hour.

We left the hotel right at 5am to get to the start. Skies were cloudy. Temps were probably in the high 30s/low 40s. Luckily there was no rain. At the very last minute I decided to bring my beanie and wear my lightweight Mountain Hardware vest. As I was stepping to the starting line I saw Trev and said a quick "hi" and we were off.

The first part of the race followed the road we drove up to the starting line for a brief 1/2mile or so. We veered off to the left and got onto some single track. It immediately climbed and I settled into a nice walk/run pace up the hill. After the first climb, it was rolling single track with short, steep ups/downs that were all runnable. It then started to rain somewhere along this nice single track section. I settled into a nice pace behind Sean, Joelle with Trevor and AJW behind. Trevor and I caught up on running, family, etc. This small train of runners lasted for a number of miles before AJW and Sean took off. I rolled into the first aid station (mile 8ish) and grabbed a few gels, filled up my water bottle with Nuun. Trevor, Sean and AJW were about 2 minutes in front.

The trails was beginning to turn really muddy. Trevor had forewarned me that if it was wet out, the trails were going to be slick...and they were. Some sections was like running on ice. I don't know how many times I nearly fell.

I caught up to Trevor just before we headed up the off-trail portion of the race. As we climbed, both Trevor and I caught up to a number of people. The weather started to turn for the worse. The winds picked up and sleet/snow began to fall. It was foggy and having never run the course, I had know idea what the surrounding terrain was like and I didn't recall how many vertical feet we were going to have to climb. My hands were freezing at this point so I tucked my hands underneath my armpits trying to get them warmed up. I put on my beanie and placed my Nuun visor inside of my vest. I knew my body needed food but it would've been futile trying to open a gel/bar/etc so I sucked on my water bottle thinking the little electrolytes I gained from the Nuun would do something for my calorie/electrolyte depleted body.

The conditions reminded me of my many forays into the mountains. However, I had the necessary gear to keep the core of the body warm during those adventures. Today I was just wearing some simple running clothes.

As we crested the ridge that we were on, the snow/sleet made it difficult to see and was covering up the course markers. Winds were probably blowing between 40-45mph. I started to follow AJW and some other guy towards the right on this large open plateau of sorts, when off to my left I noticed some markers. I yelled out to both of them and they followed. The course now followed a ATV/jeep road. I tried to maintain the pace with AJW to help me get off this god-forsaken hill but just couldn't. Within a few minutes I was running by myself in terrain that I wasn't familiar with and in conditions that were deteriorating. I wondered how long we were going to be on this road before dropping elevation. I just started thinking "Keep it together. Keep it together. Look for the course markers. Head up. Look for the course markers." Squinting through the sleet/snow and high winds that were now coming straight at me, I saw 2 course flags off to my right. I stopped for a moment just to be sure. Yes! The flags! I followed them. This ATV/jeep road was now starting to drop some elevation....and fast. In a few minutes, I caught up to AJW, who was stopped and looked like he was trying to warm up his hands to open a few gel packets. I grunted something and continued down. Within 15 minutes it actually felt warm. AJW passed me.....as did Matt. WTF?! Matt?! He had taken a wrong turn just before the off-trail section.

At times the road was a nightmare....muddy, slick and little traction. I fell once, pretty hard onto my left side, while trying to open a ShotBloks (the first fuel since the first AS). The road continued, crossed a few streams and then hit single track. The city came into view and it actually wasn't raining. It was beautiful single track that any ultra runner would love. Then a steep, short downhill section put me at City Creek AS. Just as I was coming in, I saw Trevor leaving. Derek was waiting for me.....boy, it sure was nice to see a familiar face!

I was at the AS a little longer than I usually take but I wanted to be sure I had all the essential items with me. I grabbed my lightweight Marmot jacket, ditched my I-pod and handheld water bottle. I figured I'd need to keep my fingers warm as we were going up again into the weather. It was just too hard to maintain some warm fingers with having the handheld. I had Derek slightly open my Sharkies bag --- again, anticipating my fingers would not be functional once I got into colder weather. I ate a Luna Bar, took two Endurolytes and off I went.

The next couple miles meandered on some single track before hitting a small aid station that had water. I filled what I had drank of my one water bottle since seeing Derek and continued the climb. I thanked them for being there. One of the volunteers said, "Two miles to the top. Then 4miles down to the next aid station." My response joking was, "Piece of cake!"

Just beyond I saw Trevor tying his shoe. We continued on together and again chatted about life. We climbed higher and higher and soon we were again in the wind, snow/sleet. I put on my jacket....and WOW!! what a difference. Sure was nice to have this. At this point, there was about 3 inches of snow on the ground. We caught up to Matt and crested another ridge and gained a ATV/jeep road. Matt and Trevor pushed the pace on the downhill that I couldn't match.

I eventually caught up to Trevor and ran together all the way till around mile 26 - at a remote aid station. Word at the aid station was that the race had been called and racers were stopping people at Mink Creek (mile 32). I grabbed one gel, filled up my water bottle with Nuun and took off. About 1/2 mile beyond I caught Matt. Then Trevor, Matt and I ran together for about a mile before Trevor and I pulled ahead of Matt and then Trevor eventually pulled ahead of me. At this time, there was about 4 inches of snow on the ground and as we descended to Mink Creek, rain began to fall and the snow started to melt. The trail was is in pretty bad shape - basically running in a small stream with the water temperature hovering just above freezing. You could say my feet were cold.

About 2 miles from Mink Creek some one came running up the trail and indeed confirmed that racers were being stopped at Mink Creek. I felt a sense of relief, but in all honestly, a little disappointed. I was looking forward to the next part of the race up and over Scout Mountain, but I knew, due to the conditions, that it was the right decision by the RD's.

Matt and another runner passed me about a mile from the "finish". As I rolled into the finish Derek was waiting for me. A tent was set up and people were mingling inside. I didn't stay for long...just wanted to get to the hotel, take a shower and rest now that the race had been stopped. I finished in 9th place with a time of 5hrs 50ish minutes.

A big thanks to the volunteers for being out in the elements and providing support for all participants. Thanks to the RDs for putting on a great race....and stopping it as well. Thanks to Derek for supporting me at the race. And a bigger thanks to my family for putting up with me and another adventure.

I'll be back next year....just hope the weather is bit nicer!

McDonald Forest 50K race report

I was looking forward to running this race for the first time. It suited me well....the abundance of steep hills. I had run the course with Will, Mike and Angela in mid-March, but come race day, I had forgotten just how steep the hills were -- especially after running the relatively flat Rumble. My fitness was on par for a successful race after PR'ing at all the races this year. I had a goal of running under 4:30.

The race started out pretty fast....at least for me. I was able to hang on till the first substantial hill before falling back into more of a sustainable pace and let 3 guys go. However, just as I hit the first steep hill, my legs just weren't turning over like they normally do. Not sure what was going on. I swapped places with Joe (a ultrarunner from Portland - nice meeting you bro!) on a number of occassions -- he catching me on the downhills, I catching him on the uphills.

The miles were passing by but my legs still were not "functioning" normal...especially on the long, gradual dirt/gravel roads. In addition to my lack of leg turnover, somewhere around mile 16, I started having severe abdominal cramps and bloating. This persisted till the mile 22ish aid station. I attributed this to having too many electrolytes and salt consumption (via S-caps) on board....I was miscalculating.....I was taking these supplements at each of the aid stations and on the trail. Big mistake! This definitely won't happen again! At this point, I was contemplating dropping from the race since I felt like s#*t.


At around mile 24ish, things started to turn around. The bloating/cramps dissipated and I caught 2 runners right beginning of the last, long steep trail before hitting the road that bombs down to the last aid station. My legs felt a little better so I really pushed it -- thinking that they or some one else would catch me on the downhills to the last aid station and onto the finish line. Just outside of the last aid station, I had to stop for a quick restroom break.


I made it down to the last aid station in 4th place - 5 minutes behind 3rd. At this point, I decided to try and hang on to 4th place. I quickly refilled my handheld with water and dropping a Nuun tablet.

The 3+ mile gravel road outside of the last aid station killed me. It just never seemed to end. My legs felt heavy. I walked for about a minute thinking that a different pace would help. My legs are accustomed to varied speeds on trails -- not that same for miles on end on these long, gravel roads.

Just as I reached the last 1.5miles to the finish, Brian Morrison caught me. Ugh! He was moving fast. "Great finish. Keep it up," I said as I let him pass. I was able to match his pace up the final hill before he put the gear into overdrive and was gone, bombing down the hill to the finish.

I cruised the last mile and finished in 4:31 and 5th overall. I was pleased with the result given what all transpired over the day. A friend I went to high school with - Jason Moyer - finished right behind me. Will finished in 4:54 - great race my friend - given the limited training you've done over the past month! Mike finished in 4:42 -- great race -- for having smoked the Eugene marathon in 2:42 (only in my dreams would I be able to run that fast) just 6 days prior!

A great race put on by the race directors. The course was well-marked and the aid stations were well-stocked. Thanks to all the volunteers. They were helpful and ready to meet your needs! Amazing!!

Short Peterson Ridge Rumble 60K Race Report

This was my 3rd straight year running this race. My times have progressively gotten faster and this year was to be no exception. I'm running faster then at any other point in my short career running ultras. I think there are a few reasons to this: #1 -I'm getting at least a 3-6hr run every Saturday (even though I don't run more than 3-4x/wk...thanks to my wife and other family for being so supportive!!), #2 - I'm monitoring what I eat (cutting out almost all dairy and eating very little meat), #3 - I haven't been injured - this is attributed to my monthly massages, #4 - running with local fast guys - Yassine Diboun, Joe Grant and Nick Triolo.


My Dad, son -Mason- and I left Portland at 4:30am. We made quick time - arriving in Sisters right at 7am.


All 115+ people toed the line and off we went. Yassine immediately took the lead - knowing I nor anyone racing today - would see him till the finish. I settled into a nice pace behind Jeff Browning and Matt Hart. As soon as we hit the single track they both picked up the pace. I guess this is why they're ultrarunners.....and sponsored. Soon Jeff was out of sight. I followed behind Matt for an additional 20-30minutes before he too was out of sight....after I paused to squat behind a bush. I was concerned that I was moving too fast, too early on...but I thought, "what the hell. might as well see what happens". I was hydrating well and eating regularly. However my intestines were in an uproar and had to relieve myself 2 additional times along the course. I did skip one crucial aid station - not filling up my water bottle. Big mistake! I misjudged the distance to the next aid station, so I dunked my handheld water bottle in a stream (time will tell if I get giardia, crypto, or campy) knowing that I would need the water.

I thought for sure Matt was gone for good. Then, on a long uphill stretch of a gravel road, I saw him about 2oo meters in front. I was on autopilot, putting one foot in front of the other. Within a few minutes, I caught up to him. Hills are my saving grace in these races....since I suck at downhills and the flats I'm OK. "Good job Matt. Keep it up," I said as I passed him. He said the same.


From that point on, I was running scared...thinking Matt would catch me. I stopped briefly at the second to last aid station - mile 28ish. I dumped what was left of the stream-fill water and refilled with Nunn. Grabbed a banana and I think a gel. Around mile 30, my legs on the inner aspects of the thigh started to cramp...just like what had happened at Hagg. I just kept moving and was able to shake off the cramps and reach the final aid station. Again, I filled my water bottle with Nuun and left in a matter of seconds.


The last 4ish miles went by relatively fast. I turned around countless times thinking Matt was going to be on my heels....but he wasn't.


I finished in 4hrs 40mins in 3rd place. Jeff was second in 4hrs 39min. Yassine was first in 4hrs 17mins.


Sean put on another great race. The volunteers were awesome. Next race is McDonald Forest 50K. I'll be volunteering at one of the aid stations at Capitol Peak 50miler.

Hagg Lake 50K

At this year's race, I was hoping to break the 4 hour barrier. I'm in much better shape then last year and with only one hiccup in my training, I figured it would be possible to get under 4 hours. The weather was perfect, however, having run the trail a few times over the past couple of months, it would still be muddy.
Before the race I chatted with Sean Meissner (a Montrail sponsored athlete). He and I were wearing the same prototype shoes from Montrail. It was pretty cool to be wearing some shoe that only a few pairs existed and providing valueable input in the development of them. Nelson and I also chatted - catching up on life.
The race started promptly at 8am with the short out-and-back section. Within 400 meters, it was readily apparent the men from the boys - Max King, Andy Martin, Ruben Galbraith and Andrew Schupp - were out front and never to be seen again. Hats-off to the 4 of them for ripping-up the course!! This out and back section, although short, has always been tough for me. The return to the lake is a screaming downhill that just kills my quads (I've never been a good downhill runner).
The first loop around the lake was uneventful. If I recall correctly, I came into Sain Creek Aid Station (start/finish line) at 2hrs 8min. I was sitting in 5th place overall and was eating/drinking well. I also took in a few S-caps. The aid stations were well supported and stocked -- the volunteers were great!
It was probably less than a mile after passing the Sain Creek Aid Station, my muscles in the groin area (of all places!!) started cramping. I took 2 S-caps, hoping that would help and increased my fluid intake as well (I had Nuun). The words of encouragement from Yassine helped as I struggled to get up and out of the most technical part of the course that he was directing runners through.
The miles rolled by and the cramping didn't improve. Running across the dam was painful (have I said I hate running on asphalt!!). I left the aid station on the north side of the dam in agony and could see the next runner who was about 2 minutes back (at the time I couldn't recognize the runner but it turned out to be Will Swint). If there is any runner out there that maintains a steady - and fast pace - it is Will. Will caught up to me a few miles later. We ran together just briefly. A few words of encouragement were exchanged and then he was gone.
About 2 miles out from the last aid station, runners comes across a "series" of mud holes that one can go directly through....or around. I ran through the mud holes on the first lap without incident so I thought I would do the same. Well, not so. At the first mud hole I took one long stride and before I knew it, I was down on all fours covered in mud. I yelled a few words that will not be written....then I started laughing. I then got up and starting. After the little spill, my cramping subsided and was actually able to run some of the uphills.
I rolled into the last aid station....again, great volunteers!! They cleaned my mud-incased handheld water bottle with some baby wipes so that I didn't have to drink Nuun and mud.
The last miles to the finish were unremarkable. I didn't have any idea where the next runner behind was. Will was having a good day and I wasn't going to be catching him. I rolled into the finish in 4hrs 8mins - good enough for 6th place. Will was 4 minutes faster and in 5th.
A new PR by 15minutes - one has to be pleased. Next year I'll try and run that sub-4hr. At the finish I spoke with Max - who had won the race in just under 3hrs 27min!! - Will and many others. Craig, from Columbia, was also there.
Christy and the kids ate lunch while I got cleaned up. Mason loved throwing rocks and sticks in the creek. Another great day on the trails here in the Northwest!

Nothing in particular

Capital Peak race went well. Really enjoyed the course and what it offered...steep ascents/descents, lots of mud, stream running/crossings, etc. Thanks to all the participated and volunteered! Results are here: http://www.capitolpeakultras.com/megafatass30mileresults.htm

Ran a tough 22+mile trail in the Coast Range with Angela yesterday. It was my first time running in the coast range...hard to believe since we've had a family vacation home in Oceanside before I was born!!

In a few weeks I'll know if I get into Hardrock 100. I've got a backup - Tahoe Rim Trail 100 - in the event my name doesn't get pulled in the lottery.

I signed up "local" (southern Oregon) 100 miler - Pine to Palm - in mid-September. I'm excited to be apart of a race in its inaugural year.

Cold, wet and snow on the Wildwood Trail

Ran the complete length of the Wildwood Trail (30+ miles) with Nelson. We started in a drizzle as the temperature gauge on my Prius read 34 degrees. The rain increased soon after we started and never let up. Snow covered much of the trail - although it was rapidly melting due to the rain. Nelson and I split up at mile 16. I wasn't fueling properly and the last number of miles were a bit of a struggle. I finished right at 5 hours. When we got back to my car, the temperature gauge had ticked-up to a wopping 37 degrees! Nelson and I agreed.....it was the coldest/wettest run either of us had done in recent memory.

Another Attempt at a Lottery

Not getting my name drawn for Western States, I'm hoping for some luck with the lottery process at Hardrock. If I get in, I'll have to think about Big Horn.

2010 Tentative Race Schedule

Well, never got around to writing a full report for R2R2R. In short, it was a great day on the trail - met some great people, had good weather (although a tad bit chilly on the N. Rim) and most important, I just had fun.


Here is a possible race schedule for next year:

Jan - Capital Peak Fat Ass - 34miler

Feb - Hagg Lake - 50K

March - Chuckanut - 50K

April - Peterson Ridge Rumble -60K

May - Pocatello - 50miler

June - Big Horn 100
or
July - Hardrock 100

August - Cascade Crest 100
or
September - Wasatch 100

Quick R2R2R Report......

Well, I did the run (starting and ending at the Bright Angel Trailhead) in 10hrs 16mins. A more lengthy report will be posted....hopefully soon.

R2R2R Run

Getting my gear ready to run the R2R2R (basically running from the south rim of the Grand Canyon, over to the north rim and back to the south rim) this weekend. Still deciding if I'm wanting to go the Kaibab Trail or Bright Angel Trail upon my return to the south rim. The two previous times I've done this run, I've always opted for Bright Angel. Now that it is mid-November and the temps are looking rather "chilly" (my two previous times running this have always been in May) I may just decide on Kaibab.
I'm running with Nathan Spear, an old friend from high school. He and my twin brother battled for the top x-country spot in the Portland Interscholastic League (PIL) back in the early 90's -- while I was sucking wind as a mid-packer. This will be his first R2R2R. He has ran one other run about this same distance, but any one who has run this knows how challenging the R2R2R can be.
We fly out at 0830 Friday and return 1530 Sunday. I'll let every one know how it goes upon my return. Cheers.