tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37751114546576931652024-03-13T20:37:58.594-06:00Team Fast EddyNo one can coach desire - Bill BowermanAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.comBlogger709125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-9914710002159358292014-12-12T10:55:00.001-07:002015-01-12T08:40:33.601-07:00South Africa<div class="MsoNormal">
I came to South Africa to use running as a vehicle for
self-discovery, adventure, and to expose myself to vulnerability.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I explore new cultures and environments, I
learn that my <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">normal</i> isn’t
necessarily <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">normal</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nice cars, name brand clothing, jewelry, and
every electronic known to man surround my normal life; the more I have, the
more I want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A Hippocratic lifestyle,
for sure, compared to the simplicity that running offers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know this is wrong deep in my heart but I
don’t know how to change it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This trip
helped me take the first step.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I arrived in Cape Town after traveling half way around the
world from Colorado, USA.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tired and
hollowed from jet lag I journeyed 5 hours inland with an agenda to share and
seek knowledge from the people and learn about their culture along the
way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I stopped in Montagu, Calitzdorp,
Oudshoorn (oats-win), and Prince Albert with the Swartberg Mountains as my
final destination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Cape Nature
Conservation is the agency that manages the natural heritage of the land that gave
me a great an overview of the area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While
researching I also learned about people living in the area at the turn of the
century, which intrigued me even more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Who were these people and how did they survive in such a rugged and
isolated environment?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More importantly,
why not live closer to towns where the conveniences of life are much more
plentiful?<o:p></o:p></div>
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The one –most striking- common thread was the optimism
everyone displayed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt a sense of
genuine happiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People live
deliberately with only the essentials of life in mind, whereas, I’ve been
living unnecessarily by overindulgence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>One image I’ll never forget as I was leaving Calitzdorp, was a young boy
–no more than 4 years old- walking down the road with two bottles of water,
which he had just retrieved from the local river.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Very humbling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would imagine this was his daily chore, and
to him, this was normal.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The first couple of nights I was hosted by Living Waters
Farm (Erika and Johann) curators of the Donkey Trail. This farm, among many others,
is situated in a small valley above Calitzdorp that’s brimming with life:
vineyards, olive trees and expansive gardens, but no electricity. This is
simple living at its finest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Erika and </span>Johann provided me an in-depth history of the Donkey Trail, which turned out to
be used primarily as a trading route over the spine of the Swartberg Mountains
to connect the Gamkaskloof valley on the other side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Donkeys were used to carry heavy loads in
trains and would sometimes traverse the 26km trail by themselves and arrive at
the other end as expected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children from
the Gamkaskloof also used the trail so they could regularly attend school in
the opposite valley.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After my
introduction to the area I went out on the trail and simply took my time to
observe and explore. As the sun was setting I hiked to the highest point around
and marveled at what I saw.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I envisioned
the early settlers excitement as they crested the ridge to see the lush and
expansive valley below.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This place was
rugged and isolated but so beautiful at the same time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have never been so humbled thinking about
what it took to survive here.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dwOQJefodIo/VIsqJ4w0nDI/AAAAAAAAEvw/OaqV6qy56KQ/s1600/BlackMountain-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dwOQJefodIo/VIsqJ4w0nDI/AAAAAAAAEvw/OaqV6qy56KQ/s1600/BlackMountain-4.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset on the first day (All photos courtesy Andrew King D4 Productions)</td></tr>
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On my second day of exploring I came across a couple of
local guides who had donkeys in tow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
joined them as they made their way to Elands pass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Along the way they reiterated the history and
further pointed out some shrubs and plants and the usefulness of each.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Short of the pass, I parted ways with the
guides and my thoughts suddenly shifted to all the modern conveniences in my
life that I consider necessary. Is there a way to curb my appetite for
conveniences and overindulgence?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What I
think of as burdens, such as walking to town over a few miles or getting water
from the river, others think of as necessities for survival.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How do I get back to appreciate my primal
instincts of survival and rid myself of the material things in which I think
are necessary?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Experiences like this
help to put things in perspective.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Over-privileged, under-privileged, whatever privileged, doesn't matter;
I have found those with less to be more thankful, optimistic, and enthusiastic
towards everyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The trail running
community is very much like this, with a sense of mutual respect and a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">we’re all in this together</i>
mentality.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wanted to feel
vulnerability during my time in South Africa because I feel it’s a powerful way
to grow exponentially and help change all aspects of my life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JcQB4O8CcKA/VIsqK11JjYI/AAAAAAAAEwE/TBkkUor2u2U/s1600/BlackMountain-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JcQB4O8CcKA/VIsqK11JjYI/AAAAAAAAEwE/TBkkUor2u2U/s1600/BlackMountain-7.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guides on The Donkey Trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I consider myself an average family man with average running
talent and a huge appetite for adventure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I have a corporate job that provides for my family while trail running
fuels my need for adventure. I started running trail races to redefine my
limits and what I lacked in talent I made up with hard work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This type of mentality has spilled over into
every aspect of my life, approaching everything with possibility.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I continually ask myself “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I wonder if</i>..?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ran my first marathon at the age of 11
because <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I wondered if</i> it was
possible. I ran the 500-mile Colorado Trail –<u>twice</u>- because after the
first time <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I wondered if</i> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could do it faster than anyone else. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With the right mindset combined with hard
work, I believe anything is possible.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I reluctantly left Living Waters Farm and made my way to
Oudtshoorn (oats-win), which is known as the Ostrich capital of the world. I
had lunch in town, picked up supplies and checked in with Cape Nature, the
environmental agency managing the Swartberg Nature Reserve. For the next 3
nights I rented a house near Swartberg Pass, which had been built for the crews
during the construction of the road through the Swartberg range.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This road, built by Thomas Bain and crew,
took 6 years to complete and officially opened in 1888.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The amount of rock placed to support flat
stable portions of road on cliff edges is an amazing piece of engineering for
all time.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cape Nature provided me with maps showing a series of trails
traversing the Swartberg Nature Reserve.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The Swartberg Mountains are part of the Cape Fold Belt, which is a fold
and thrust belt formed over 250 million years ago. The fold creates amazing
layers in the rocks looking much like ribbon candy, while the thrust creates
huge slabs of rocks piled upon each other exposing rocky jagged edges. Now I
was in my element with endless possibilities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Each day I planned to explore a different trail, heading in different
directions.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The first morning I ran up and down the main Swartberg pass
road to get the legs talking to the lungs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After a long journey in the car, the feeling of lactic acid building in
my legs was enough to clear my mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Later that day I headed to Prince Albert to learn about the town and
little more about the area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why had it been
settled and why did people stay in this remote town?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Simply stated on a sign entering the town “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">If wide-open spaces and the deafening
stillness inspire you then Prince Albert is your place</i>”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was founded over 250 years ago by Dutch Settlers and
still - to this day - provides a source of vibrant culture and necessities of
life, much as it did in the beginning.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-duObSshAKsM/VIsqMXvibsI/AAAAAAAAEwg/DcGRJimfbpU/s1600/BlackMountain-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-duObSshAKsM/VIsqMXvibsI/AAAAAAAAEwg/DcGRJimfbpU/s1600/BlackMountain-12.jpg" height="266" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">In my element - Swartberg Mountains</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I spent the day walking around town and talking with the
locals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found a local blacksmith who
was eager to talk and share his story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This was the hardest working man I have ever seen, and yet, very giving
with his time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As he taught me how to
hammer out a piece of glowing red-hot steel, it was clear he was very passionate
about his craft.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Later I visited a local
factory and watched workers play a game of dominos during their lunch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They played with such enthusiasm as they called
out their numbers and smacked down their dominos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was Prince Albert: hard working,
passionate and enthusiastic people who enjoyed the simplicity of their
community. A simple game of dominos and the working of a hot piece of steel,
simple and deliberate and equally as happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>People live here for the same reason I trail run; the simplicity and
happiness it provides.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Now that I’ve gotten a feel of the land and culture I
decided to head deeper into the range; to the Gamkaskloof, also known as Die
Hel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I left the comfort of the house and
ran 30km in search of this secluded valley on a road that went as far as I could
see, dipping behind several bends and ridges, each providing a new valley of
exploration and further built the anticipation of the Gamkaskloof. Then, just
as I had imagined, I came around a bend and there it was, the Gamkaskloof.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Several hundred meters below, a sliver of
paradise 20-kilometers long, 300-meters wide and teaming with green vegetation
from end to end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ran the winding road
down to the valley with the same excitement as finishing a race, smiling from
ear to ear with anticipation of what I would encounter.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’ve been very fortunate to be able to run all over the
world. Not because I’m the most talented runner but because I’ve been in the
right place at the right time when opportunity knocks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I run to live and do my best thinking on the
run in the isolation and peacefulness of nature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is what centers me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel I become a better father, husband,
friend and colleague.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The remote nature
of extreme environments makes me feel more alive, whereas living in a metropolitan
area surrounded by material things only offers false pretenses of true
happiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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The valley was thought to be discovered in the early 19th
century and later grew to about 160 people living in complete isolation. Their
only access routes –initially- <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>where
through a steep river valley or over the top of the mountains via a couple of
rough trails, one of which I had explored a few days previously, the Donkey
Trail. As the community grew in the Gamkaskloof, they decided to build a
school, which meant they would stay in the valley for nearly everything except
for trading goods.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They farmed grain,
vegetables, fruit, tobacco, beer made from wild honey, and even distilling
something call Witblits (or white lightning) made from corn mash.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Once the road was built in 1962 people began to leave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The children attended high schools in nearby
villages and most of them did not return to the subsistence life in the
valley.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The elderly returned to
retirement villages outside the valley and overall the number of residents
diminished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The valley was declared a
national monument in 1997 and was included into the Swartberg Nature
Reserve.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Subsequently the cottages in
the valley have been renovated and equipped with solar power and
bathrooms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because of the improvements,
the Gamkaskloof has become a tourist attraction as well as an adventurer
paradise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Today, a few people still live in the valley and even
operate a restaurant, which serves food from their subsistence farms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The loaf of bread I ate for lunch was made in
an outdoor oven by a woman who learned the craft of bread making passed down
from many generations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t know
what you don’t know so these people choose to stay secluded, and just like
everyone else that I spoke to, there was a genuine happiness and enjoyment
about their life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They wanted to share
their story as much as I wanted to learn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Simple living is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">their normal</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s hard work to live a simple life but
provides so much gratification and happiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If that’s the point in life then why know anything else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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I started ultra running because of two passions of mine: backpacking
and running.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a boy scout I used to
take long backpacking trips deep into remote areas with a heavy backpack loaded
down with some of the conveniences of modern life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As my sense of exploration expanded <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I wondered if</i> I could lighten the load
and go farther? Pretty soon I was leaving the house with just a fanny pack and
a water bottle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was doing more with
less.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Much like the people I encountered
in and around the Swartberg Mountains; they travel long distances on foot for
the essentials and through the process live deliberately and happy. If I can
achieve happiness by simplifying my life then why not remove some of the modern
conveniences that have become part of my normal life?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I honestly think I don’t want to expose
myself to vulnerability because of my fear of failure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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All of this made me realize how far away we’ve gotten from
what normal should be for human beings. Adaptation is a strength that has
allowed us to survive as a society and yet today we have gotten so far away
from the primal essence of life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I live
with so many comforts in my life, thinking I’m thriving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet these people live with so much less while
leading a happy and successful life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Modern conveniences have crossed the line into overindulgence and
created a sense of entitlement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can
–and should do- with far less.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a
father I should be teaching my kids about subsistence living, not providing all
the latest modern conveniences.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am not
doing them any favors if the next generation is to be better than the last, but
as a species, we must be better than the last in order to survive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The image of the little boy walking down the
road with two water bottles under his arms will forever be etched in mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He will someday teach his kids to the same.<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s8R6WlLfZsI/VIsqJNSa6EI/AAAAAAAAEvk/qle236L2vUg/s1600/BlackMountain-23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s8R6WlLfZsI/VIsqJNSa6EI/AAAAAAAAEvk/qle236L2vUg/s1600/BlackMountain-23.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Contemplating it all</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I leave South Africa with everything I was looking for:
self-discovery, adventure, and most importantly to expose myself to
vulnerability. I run in remote places to
gain a sense of freedom and center myself, this makes me happy. South Africa is an absolutely beautiful and
diverse place filled with a rich and vibrant culture. Whether in the city centers or in the remote
bush, people I encountered are enthusiastic, deliberate, and happy. I recognize
that I’ve been living with a mentality of <i>once
I’m successful I’ll be happy</i> and need to change it around to <i>Once I’m happy I’ll be successful</i>. Being aware of the difference will allow me
to live simply and pass it on to the next generation. Now, <i>I wonder if</i> I’m strong enough to be the change I want to see in my
family. Running has been at the center of my life for quite some time and I never
really figured out why I did it because it’s such hard work. But that’s the point; the result of hard work
is more hard work and the gratification of progress. Well, simple living is hard work but yet so
gratifying. So running is very much like
life should be: simple, deliberate and provide genuine happiness along the
way. Running is -and always has been- my
gateway to living a simple, happy life.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-49668392575482642262014-01-12T16:44:00.001-07:002014-01-13T16:21:34.928-07:00Colorado Trail Day 8+ - Gold Hill to Waterton CanyonThe line between a dream and reality is completely blurred. Let the outer body experiences begin. <br />
<br />
I must have passed out because I woke up in that -all too familiar- stupor of not knowing where I was and if I had somewhere to be. Those few minutes were terrifying and exhilarating all wrapped up in one emotion. When I finally had the sense of where I was, I reached for my phone hoping that I had not overslept.... 12:30 AM?!? Yep, it was one of those 30 minute power naps that somehow revitalizes every fiber of your being. "<i>This is it!" </i>I mumbled while stretching. From here all the way to Waterton Canyon will be one continuous push. No more sleeping, just relentless forward motion (RFM). I didn't actually get vertical until 1:15 AM but my mind was racing so I could not fall back asleep. With no sleep from the night before, plus 30 minutes tonight, and nothing planned for the next 39 hours, I was going to need all the help I could get to stay coherent and upright.<br />
<br />
Thank goodness Robert Kunz volunteered to leave Gold Hill with me. It was 2:15 AM and we were on our way to the Middle Fork of Swan River, the first crew stop <i>so</i> <i>I thought</i>. The storm had passed but it was pretty chilly so I elected to wear tights - Manpris with long socks nonetheless.... At least I was warm and dry. I had 105.1 myles in 38 hours and 59 minutes to break the record, and according to my smart friends (Nick Pedatella and Brian Fisher), I only had to manage 3 MPH with a total of 4 hours of down time. But that 4 hours had to be broken up over the next 6 crew points, which gave me a maximum of 40 minutes per stop with no stopping on the trail. No more sleeping, planning, or thinking, just RFM!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SUIVVtVGzbk/UtLmw36iPBI/AAAAAAAAEX0/zBSIn9MpIGs/s1600/Day+8+start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SUIVVtVGzbk/UtLmw36iPBI/AAAAAAAAEX0/zBSIn9MpIGs/s1600/Day+8+start.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little bewildered</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sedmd01f0Qc/UtLnjIHjZ0I/AAAAAAAAEYA/Oe61y6e7Ho4/s1600/3+AM+day+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sedmd01f0Qc/UtLnjIHjZ0I/AAAAAAAAEYA/Oe61y6e7Ho4/s1600/3+AM+day+7.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Starting to smile @ 3:30 AM. With Rob Kunz</td></tr>
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It was dark and damp but the moon was our beacon once again, which seemed to lift our spirits a bit. We were talking and keeping a pretty good pace over the first hill and continued to do so with a succession of rollers in the pre-dawn hours. Four hours in the dark -for once- seemed to pass by in minutes and once nautical twilight arrived, our pace quickened. We started our descent into the Middle Fork of the Swan River and as I carelessly slapped my right foot down on the trail, I felt a little pop or some sort of tweak. I stopped to massage it out but as I started up again the uncomfortable pain was all too familiar. The shin splints I was so carefully avoiding may have reared its ugly head. Walking on flat terrain didn't hurt, it was when I tried to lift my toe uphill or heel strike on a downhill that it hurt. With the crew being no more than a mile away I could deal with it at that point. To top things off, the Mexican food I ate late last night was not agreeing with me, stopping several times to clear out my system. I've never been one to go fast in the woods so that took some time. I should have learned my lesson from a few days ago when the same thing happened after eating Mexican food. But I can't help it, I'm Mexican and I was eating everything that was put in front of me.</div>
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We arrived at the Middle Fork of the Swan River, crossing the road and then through the campground, and the crew were nowhere to be found. We didn't have a map because I knew where we were going and <i>I knew</i> this was the spot to meet. We had passed a couple of campers and before trudging along to what <i>I thought</i> was Georgia Pass next, Robert went back and asked the campers for a map or at least give us a snapshot of what lay ahead. According to their map we still had to get to the North Fork of the Swan River before we started the climb to Georgia Pass. That's when we realized the crew must be waiting at the North Fork and NOT the Middle Fork. We had wasted at least 15 minutes of that precious 4 hours of downtime on a silly mental mistake of mine. In my mind, the North and Middle Fork were one in the same. <br />
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It was only a couple of myles to the North Fork but with my bum right shin, those myles dragged on waaay too long. From quite a distance away as we -unknowingly- paralleled the Middle Fork road, Robert and I heard the strangest noises, sounded like a chorus of humming or howling but we couldn't quite make it out. Good thing Robert turned and acknowledged the noise because I was gonna pretend I didn't hear it... I certainly didn't want to talk about something that really wasn't there so early in the day. Finally we saw the source . Whew! It was a dog sledding camp with literally hundreds of Alaskan Malamute type dogs standing on their houses howling because it was breakfast time. That occupied my mind long enough to take us to the waiting crew in no time at all. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xv4Z70ZYu5I/UtMRiCx3LiI/AAAAAAAAEcc/8LljAK1R5vQ/s1600/Day+8+North+Swan.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xv4Z70ZYu5I/UtMRiCx3LiI/AAAAAAAAEcc/8LljAK1R5vQ/s1600/Day+8+North+Swan.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eating while massaging</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5erbxjjVL9Q/UtLoiRqItdI/AAAAAAAAEYI/kRxtVOGZoyg/s1600/Day+8+middle+fork+swan.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5erbxjjVL9Q/UtLoiRqItdI/AAAAAAAAEYI/kRxtVOGZoyg/s1600/Day+8+middle+fork+swan.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">North Fork of the Swan River. Not happy and a little concerned with my shin<br />
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It was just after 7 AM, which means I was traveling at least 3 MPHs but I still sensed the urgency from the crew as I sat to scarf down my breakfast burrito. I changed shoes to alleviate some of the pain I was experiencing in my shin, briefly put some ice on it and we were off within 20 minutes. A little time back into the bank. Sylvia now joined me to Kenosha pass and just as I wanted, her positive can-do attitude came along for the ride. She was excited so that got me excited as we started the 5 mile climb up to Georgia Pass. About midway through the climb we passed a couple of backpackers and from a distance Sylvia tells them <i>"This guy is going to break the record on the Colorado Trail! Check him out, his name is Scott Jaime".</i> I don't remember if they responded or not because I was so embarrassed. A little while later as we approached Georgia Pass we passed another couple and Sylvia -excitingly- blurted out the same thing. All I could think was "<i>maybe</i> <i>with my Manpris and long socks they didn't think she was serious..." </i>I knew as we got closer to Kenosha Pass that we'd inevitably see more people so I asked if she not say that, I just didn't know how to respond and with my timeline I didn't have the time to stop and talk. She obliged as we passed several other people, just giving the customary nod and a "<i>hey".</i><br />
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What I didn't realize was that those episodes were giving me a jolt of energy and as soon as the stimulation disappeared, so did the energy. Right as we crested Georgia Pass I could not stay awake. Very similar to when you're falling asleep while driving so you open the windows to let some fresh air in. Well I was gulping air and breathing deep to help get me out of this trans of falling asleep on my feet. Finally I couldn't take it anymore so I sat down on a rock, hung my head and shut my eyes for a few minutes. Once I got up I pounded the EFS liquid shot along with a Snickers bar and stumbled along. Just as we got to tree-line the nutrition started to translate into energy and it was just like that I entered into a euphoric running spurt. Albeit, it was downhill but I was running and all around was a blur. More and more people were coming up and we just sailed on past. I had done this run from Kenosha to Georgia several times over the summer so the territory was familiar along with my splits. It was a fun mental game to see how close, or in reality, how far off I was from the summer splits and managed to pass the time really well. Shortly before crossing Jefferson Lake road I looked up to find a familiar face smiling from ear to ear - it was Todd Gangelhoff! It was one of those moments when I realized how close I was to home. When I planned the trip from Durango to Denver I had hoped my friends would come out to run with me. And they did. I gave him a hug and quickly continued towards Kenosha Pass. His plan was to go out as far as he needed to reach us and turn back around to Kenosha where he started. <br />
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Six myles left to Kenosha after crossing Jefferson Lake road and it was ridiculously hot in my long sleeve shirt and Manpris. But as hot as it seemed right now there were still piles of hail on the side of the trail -some a foot deep- that was a good reminder of how miserable we were on top of Tenmile yesterday. According to Todd that storm was just as nasty on the front range. Finally we arrived at Kenosha just after 1 PM and I was hot and tired. But after I saw and heard the crowd of people there to support me, it all went away. I already wear my emotions on my sleeve and now being stripped to the core it was easy to get choked up behind my <a href="http://www.smithoptics.com/products/#/sunglasses/New+Releases/Approach/view/">Smith Optics glasses</a>. Although I didn't want to expose any of these emotions to anyone because everyone else was tired and stripped to the core so it would only become a sob-fest. I nearly broke down the last time Nicole broke down at Clear Creek. I needed to guard against that so as we crossed Hwy 285 I grit my teeth and swallowed my flowing tears. Once there, I was quickly shuttled into the RV to change out of those ridiculously hot clothes, ate some food, and on my way within 20 minutes. I REALLY wanted to stay and talk with people but this timeline was so tight every minute/second counted against me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dVNl2MMKJvA/UtLmKACTWiI/AAAAAAAAEXs/ZKuQPG_4fLo/s1600/Day+8+Kenosha+with+Rick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dVNl2MMKJvA/UtLmKACTWiI/AAAAAAAAEXs/ZKuQPG_4fLo/s1600/Day+8+Kenosha+with+Rick.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rick and I at Kenosha</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-km2MdIN1mR0/UtLlKZG1hNI/AAAAAAAAEXc/WWhTYH6i8rQ/s1600/alyssa.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-km2MdIN1mR0/UtLlKZG1hNI/AAAAAAAAEXc/WWhTYH6i8rQ/s1600/alyssa.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alyssa and I on our way to Long Gulch</td></tr>
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So long to the Kunz' as they were <i>really</i> <span style="text-align: center;">on their way back home now. What a treat to have them part of this journey. Now I was leaving Kenosha Pass with Alyssa Wildeboer (who had traveled over from Winter Park with Travis) and Todd Gangelhoff. The conversation was non-stop -mostly them- while I listened in enjoying the companionship. Up to this point I had only been alone on the trail for the very first segment of day one. It's truly astonishing the support everyone has given to me and my crew - so grateful! Fifteen myles till we see the crew again at Long Gulch, Todd would turn around a few myles in because of an upcoming race (he'd be back later) and I would continue on with Alyssa to Long Gulch. Surprisingly, my parents and Travis stopped to give us aid at Rock Creek, half way to Long Gulch. This was against crew instructions because every stop took time... time I didn't have. I didn't care - what a welcome sight! It was still hot and exposed so my Dad traveled down the trail a bit and handed off some much needed cold water and an Ensure. My parents did a lot of behind the scene stuff, i.e. crew the crew, and now make critical stops along the trail. For the next 8 myles Alyssa was great. I never once had to respond to a question with more than "yes or no", all the while she kept the conversation interesting and entertaining. Roughly 4 and 1/2 hours after leaving Kenosha we arrived Long Gulch, right around 5:45 PM. I was constantly doing the math in my head and got pretty good predicting time I would arrive at the next aid. I was a little behind on this one but still averaging over 3.25 MPHs so I was banking a little time here and there despite the continued bathroom breaks.</span><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jpy46dDlFX4/UtLy0IiRf6I/AAAAAAAAEZc/oPHdzWn5dF8/s1600/Day+8+with+Alyssa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jpy46dDlFX4/UtLy0IiRf6I/AAAAAAAAEZc/oPHdzWn5dF8/s1600/Day+8+with+Alyssa.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Sort looks like I'm wearing a skirt. Nope big boy shorts.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DxtAPHyGXIg/UtLx7cBNoEI/AAAAAAAAEZU/_aKK9l5nQws/s1600/Day+8+Long+Gulch+with+Nicole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DxtAPHyGXIg/UtLx7cBNoEI/AAAAAAAAEZU/_aKK9l5nQws/s1600/Day+8+Long+Gulch+with+Nicole.jpg" width="207" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Concern as I leave Long Gulch heading into another night</td></tr>
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Since leaving Gold Hill I have traveled 48 myles in 15hr and 30mins (3.1mph) -usually a normal day- but I still had 57 to get to Waterton canyon. I need an extended break but my crew way too efficient. They had pancakes and potatoes all ready to go when I arrived. I probably ate too much and would suffer a subsequent food coma but eating bought time, so I feasted. Within 15 minutes they had me out of the chair and on the way to Wellington Lake road with Rick Hessek. Rick had gone home for the week to work and came back up with his wife to finish the trail with me. The impending food coma never came as we crested the top of Long Gulch and for the next 6 myles Rick and I would cruise down a very gentle slope paralleling the Long -open- Gulch. As I mentioned before, nautical twilight at both ends of the day were my favorite times and with the scenery and mild temps, we had a lot of positive energy flowing. Just as we arrived at North Fork and entered the trees we stopped to get ready for the night and a bite to eat.<br />
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We still had 8 myles to reach Wellington Lake Road and from what I remembered last time I did this section during the day was a short climb then a gradual downhill on a primitive road to the crew. It was about this time when I started questioning everything and became severely agitated because -once again- the darkness was messing with my ability to judge distance. I fell once on a slippery boulder section just as the rain started and I could not get up, basically upside down stuck in a rut. Rick had to pull me out and that incident further fueled my anger. The road was straight enough that we could see 1/2 mile at times with our lights and every turn would present another straight away. I began to throw rocks at random trees on the side of the road (which startled Rick as the rock clashed against the trees) to release some of the pent up anger. I certainly felt relieved once I hurled the rock -grunting- with fury (ahhh). I kept looking for signs that I'd remember but nothing looked familiar. Nine o'clock became 10 and there was no end in sight. Finally we made a turn onto single track that would lead us to the Rock Creek TH. It must have been almost midnight before we made it to Wellington Lake road. We had traveling 17 myles in ~6 hours which was just below the magic number of 3MPHs. <br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FFi25IgIMjU/UtLiD005nqI/AAAAAAAAEXA/8aLfOqQNHW4/s1600/Day+8+crew+in+Bailey.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FFi25IgIMjU/UtLiD005nqI/AAAAAAAAEXA/8aLfOqQNHW4/s1600/Day+8+crew+in+Bailey.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The crew in Bailey</td></tr>
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When the crew saw our lights they started cheering and whistling and the emotion once again overtook me. Same thing as last time, I wiped away the tears and grit my teeth. I couldn't see any faces but counted no less than 15 people there. I still get emotional even as I write this because I'm processing the significance of the support. Kathy Darnold, whom I met while prepping for Hardrock a few years back, and is currently a camp host with her husband outside of Telluride, had been part of this caravan from the very beginning. She was there with her brother to show support. The Wildeboer's were there, along with my parents, Jill Hessek, and good friend Brian Fisher. This is a remote Forest Service road in the middle of nowhere in the middle of the night! I am overwhelmed with this show of support. Quickly into the RV I sensed more urgency this time because I was little late. Nicole came in and said "<i>look who came up to run with you... Brian Fisher" </i>Nicole knew he would spark motivation in me. And he did! I hid my emotions and gave him a hug. Rick and I ate as quickly as possible, changed the batteries in my headlamp and we were on our way. But before we left, my Mom came up to give me a hug and she was sobbing. She knows a son's pain and it didn't help that I was stumbling. They wanted this suffering to end just as much as I did, but also knew how close I was to breaking the record. <br />
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If there was any fun left in this adventure, I wasn't seeing it. I just wanted it to be over. The succession of pacers were always a welcome sight but shortly after leaving Wellington Lake Road with Brian and Rick I had to sit down because I couldn't see straight. Nearly 24 hours on my feet and a belly full of food was too much to handle. Although each time I sat down it was no longer than 5 minutes and yet so revitalizing. As we got going again the pace felt slow and methodical but it was all I could do. The moon had a made a full circle around the earth and came back up to make the night pleasant with mild temps. The span between Wellington Lake Road and Buffalo Creek is always a long one -mentally- so I prepared my mind not worry about distance, just enjoy the time with Brian and Rick. In reality, it's only 12 myles but almost feels like the movie "Groundhog Day" where the terrain is identical around every corner and you ask yourself "<i>wasn't I just here</i>..." Unfortunately this happened several times and ended up being further away than we thought. Finally we crossed a road (FS 550) and knew Buffalo Creek CG was just a mile up the trail. <br />
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It was around 4:30 AM and not a soul was stirring about as we arrived at the parking lot, although it didn't take long for a couple of headlamps to come out and greet us. I know I was slurring my speech and couldn't really articulate what I wanted, I just wanted to lay down. I got into the RV and slumped over the table. For the first time in the RV I didn't care about food, just sleep. Pumpkin pie, oatmeal, breakfast burritos... they were all put in front of me and I just didn't have the desire to eat. I'm not sure how much time went by but I finally came to with Nicole saying "<i>are you alright?", </i>and Rick saying "<i>you gotta eat..." </i>I may have slurped down some oatmeal and some pumpkin pie but just as my body and mind were getting comfortable, it was time to go. Maybe 4:45 AM and I was baby stepping down the trail with Brian and Rick. I basically had to do the next 28 myles in 12 hours to break the record. By now you all know (if you've been reading) there's a pattern, after a slump/pass out comes a euphoric running spurt... no different here but these spurts are getting shorter and requiring a lot more focus than I have right now. I needed the sun or something else to jump start me to the finish, I was losing a sense of reality. <br />
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Head down, shuffling towards the Hwy 126 crossing I hear some sort of "<i>YeeHaw and bang-bang" </i>commotion and out from behind me comes two dudes running dressed in Cowboy and Indian outfits. My headlamp picked up a yellow Speedo with "goodbye" tattooed on the butt and a couple of feathers.... What the hell is going on?!? It scared me at first and really didn't know what was happening but then Brandon Stapanowich and Harsha Nagaraj turned around... I had quite a good laugh! Both of them had been on the trail earlier in the trip and had come back to run in with me. Here I have 4 friends who put everything else aside for the day to come out and support me. This was really happening! In less than 8 hours I'd be finishing the Colorado Trail in record time and this caused me to internalize what it all meant: family, friendship, adventure, memories, limits, community. Running -in of itself- is a very selfish sport and I have always struggled with the time commitment involved. But in this long trail/multi-day/FKT adventure I have found a place to make it "not so selfish" by creating these adventures to form bonds and lifelong memories that will forever be etched in all of our minds. I have found the importance of a loving and supportive family and the meaning of true friendships that will last a lifetime. It takes a community of like-minded people to pull off one of these adventures and everyone who takes part knows it can't be done without them, which makes the success/completion just as much theirs as it does mine. I walk away knowing that "WE" did this together and "I" could not have done this alone. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xNZBDvMU5Bg/UtMLCMNyIDI/AAAAAAAAEa4/MF_TsUXh450/s1600/Day+8+south+platte+cowboy+and+indian.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xNZBDvMU5Bg/UtMLCMNyIDI/AAAAAAAAEa4/MF_TsUXh450/s1600/Day+8+south+platte+cowboy+and+indian.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cowboy and Indian pacers</td></tr>
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The spike of emotion was taking it's toll on my energy state, almost as if I'd burn up any and all endorphins I had stored and nothing left to tap into. Shortly before sunrise I was stumbling forward and remember thinking (third person) "<i>wake up! you are walking on a trail and if you fall asleep you're gonna fall down and bash your head on a rock" </i>It was truly an outer body experience and I was not controlling my physical body anymore. I finally threw my pack down and told the guys I needed to shut my eyes for a few minutes so I found a grassy area and passed out. I mean passed out -my mouth wide open and heavy breathing within seconds- kind of passed out. I had gone 80 myles in 27 straight hours with only 30 minutes of sleep the prior two days - I was nutty. My pacers told me that I literally slept for 5 minutes or so and shot up and said "<i>Let's go</i>". I don't remember falling asleep but I do remember waking up in a panic not knowing how I'd got there and somehow thinking I wasn't going to get the record. I started running the best I could, trying to dismiss the pain in my right shin and shrug off my overall malaise. <br />
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The music faintly playing in the background is the "walk it out" rap song from Day 2. Harsha is hilarious! "I'll just eat Basmati (rice)" A joke that goes back to Day 5. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5KgsVOIEGI/UtLgXRtSKMI/AAAAAAAAEWI/PK9u_TkvBEI/s1600/Day+8+totally+passed+out.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5KgsVOIEGI/UtLgXRtSKMI/AAAAAAAAEWI/PK9u_TkvBEI/s1600/Day+8+totally+passed+out.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Completely passed out</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AMCDylMnqd4/UtMIpb4HAKI/AAAAAAAAEaU/Q0Dn1hYw3LI/s1600/Day+8+the+crew+passout.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AMCDylMnqd4/UtMIpb4HAKI/AAAAAAAAEaU/Q0Dn1hYw3LI/s1600/Day+8+the+crew+passout.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Another view</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MCHoZWTIc_c/UtLsxRZOFgI/AAAAAAAAEY8/Tt7lJNmmQFY/s1600/Day+8+sunrise.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MCHoZWTIc_c/UtLsxRZOFgI/AAAAAAAAEY8/Tt7lJNmmQFY/s1600/Day+8+sunrise.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sun helped a lot</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YnaFjUSeZlM/UtMR940o4DI/AAAAAAAAEck/xA9gQZTjjgw/s1600/Day+8+the+sun+helped.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YnaFjUSeZlM/UtMR940o4DI/AAAAAAAAEck/xA9gQZTjjgw/s1600/Day+8+the+sun+helped.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sun!</td></tr>
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The sun had come up, the trail was a downward trend, and my determination was at an all time high. I remember the next 10 myles through segment two being playful, sort of a pre-celebratory type of atmosphere. I was having a sword fight with Harsha with my hiking sticks while he had "war paint" all over his body to make the Indian outfit come to life. Meanwhile I couldn't help but stare at Brandon's butt... how could this not be fun and lively! The one downer was that my shin was a constantly nagging at me and I could tell blood was starting to pool up below my calf sleeves. At this point, I wanted to go as light as possible so I gave my poles to Harsha and was just carrying my Ultraspire pack with two half filled water bottles. Earlier in the year Bryce from Ultraspire had sent me the latest version of the <a href="http://www.ultraspirestore.com/Fastpack-Ultra-Red-p/ua055re.htm">Fastpack</a>, and to be quite honest, I haven't said much about how I carried all my calories until now. The reason is that I didn't feel like I had anything on my back, just forgot about it. The weight distribution and the big angled pockets allowed for a perfect anatomically correct fitting pack. Not once during this entire journey did I have any sort of issues with this pack. I can't wait for this Fastpack (II) to hit the market, I think you'll like it. At any rate, it was time to go light and get rid of everything (except the pack) for the final segment of the Colorado Trail.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CCMxy9R31Ss/UtLsxRZr2jI/AAAAAAAAEY4/6UiX9NLghB4/s1600/Day+8+focused.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CCMxy9R31Ss/UtLsxRZr2jI/AAAAAAAAEY4/6UiX9NLghB4/s1600/Day+8+focused.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Determined</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1UJtJcHA3CI/UtLgYULPGVI/AAAAAAAAEWs/TMtwg-X-Ky4/s1600/Day+8+with+Brian.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 13px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1UJtJcHA3CI/UtLgYULPGVI/AAAAAAAAEWs/TMtwg-X-Ky4/s1600/Day+8+with+Brian.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brian Fisher with the escort</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I4QRkoX4u6o/UtLt6vX0pfI/AAAAAAAAEZI/WsWRREg_oNQ/s1600/Day+8+sword+fighting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I4QRkoX4u6o/UtLt6vX0pfI/AAAAAAAAEZI/WsWRREg_oNQ/s1600/Day+8+sword+fighting.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fighting like Jedi's</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buffalo Creek burnout with Brandon Stapanowich</td></tr>
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It was right around 8 AM when we finally crossed the big steel bridge over the South Platte. Greeted first by my dog (Livvy) as she herded me across the bridge. I sat down in the chair and had nothing but a big smile on my face and a Coke in my hand. The record was going to be broken. But now the question was by how much? On a good day I could do this segment in less than 2 and 1/2 hours but I had 470 myles on this old body so maybe I'd shoot for double that time. The South Platte canyon was filled with excitement all the way around; instead of tears of sorrow, they were tears of joy. I wanted to celebrate too but I quickly changed into my "race kit" (you know, it's kinda like picking a girl up for the prom, you wanna make a good impression), ate some food, had another Coke and the five of us started on the final segment of the Colorado Trail. My plan was to run -almost- the entire segment and give this trail everything I had. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing over the South Platte. Amazed at the sight of my crew</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The crew at South Platte</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YtgKZycpTok/UtLiEtCpseI/AAAAAAAAEXQ/RSPeOrslCKY/s1600/Day+8+S+Platte+motley+crew.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YtgKZycpTok/UtLiEtCpseI/AAAAAAAAEXQ/RSPeOrslCKY/s1600/Day+8+S+Platte+motley+crew.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What's not to love about these guys?</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making our way</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GcWTKUplByM/UtMPDoazvWI/AAAAAAAAEcQ/3DCczs3kK1g/s1600/Day+8+with+Brian+in+woods.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GcWTKUplByM/UtMPDoazvWI/AAAAAAAAEcQ/3DCczs3kK1g/s1600/Day+8+with+Brian+in+woods.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming up on Bear Creek</td></tr>
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Noon was my initial goal as we trudged up the 1500 ft climb out of the canyon. Once we started on the flat contour of the trail, we really picked up the pace. Even though I couldn't feel my legs I was running with a sort of reckless abandon. We passed a couple of bikers who were amazed seeing runners this far from Waterton. One made the comment "<i>man, you guys are hard core running all the way back here".</i> You have no idea, I thought, as I snickered. We finally took a break about 11 myles from the end and we all were pretty silent, just taking in some calories and soaking in the day. My mind was scanning the last 8+ days and could not take in all that had transpired. I had no more emotion to give and sort of had to remind myself to stop and enjoy it. Waterton is a very busy place on the weekend so we started to see a succession of mountain bikers, along with a few runners, make there way past. With the costumes, people started asking what we were doing and I heard Brian tell one guy the story. People were probably thinking "<i>yeah right...." </i>I didn't care what anybody thought, I knew the significance of this trip defining what my limits where both mentally and physically. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start of Waterton Canyon</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking up the road</td></tr>
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Soon enough we were on the final 6 mile stretch along the Waterton canyon road. The 5 of us spaced out across the road -as if we owned it- and no one really asked any questions. Just a couple of awkward stares after which I'd take a look around at us and laugh myself. This was a very surreal moment, one I played it out in mind over a thousand times and none of them could have prepared me for the joy and relief I was feeling. Last time I finished the trail I cried like a baby on Gudy's rest for a good 20 minutes but this time I just didn't have any more tears. I had so many of my private little moments over the past 48 hours that all I could do now was smile, look around at all the support and know that this was a moment to be etched in my memory forever. Alyssa came running up the road to meet us, a little closer Todd was back, and now my Father In Law would run the final mile to the finish. I raised my hands and pumped my first in the air and said "<i>We did it!", </i>as I hugged Rick. I was running the best I could but realize it was slow because everyone in front of me was walking faster than I was running. I think Rick finally said <i>"look at all the friends here supporting you". </i>Pretty amazing. We turned the final corner where I saw my wife, my boys, my parents, and more friends. I stopped to hug my wife but she said <i>"come on, let's go".</i> She was still cracking the whip so continued on with everyone all the way to the official Colorado Trail sign. Stopped the SPOT, declared my time, and put my hands on my knees. 8 days, 7 hours, 40 minutes and 17 seconds to be exact. I gave this everything I had and my crew gave everything they had. Short of my original goal of under 8 days but I have achieved so much more. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Huo7EGFldio/UtMLqiuiGhI/AAAAAAAAEbQ/2SK5H9LBGE8/s1600/Day+8+last+1%253A2+mile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Huo7EGFldio/UtMLqiuiGhI/AAAAAAAAEbQ/2SK5H9LBGE8/s1600/Day+8+last+1%253A2+mile.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The crew during the final mile</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aqxE_VLOo_I/UtMLzGEqTQI/AAAAAAAAEbs/I-m_4R7KEGM/s1600/Day+8+rick+hug+end.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aqxE_VLOo_I/UtMLzGEqTQI/AAAAAAAAEbs/I-m_4R7KEGM/s1600/Day+8+rick+hug+end.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rick and I the final mile</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bskCBpxkzDE/UtMXQBZtwZI/AAAAAAAAEdU/p2Kwe0BEq7w/s1600/Day+8+crewchief.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bskCBpxkzDE/UtMXQBZtwZI/AAAAAAAAEdU/p2Kwe0BEq7w/s1600/Day+8+crewchief.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Crew Chief</td></tr>
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Someday this FKT will be lowered, by how much no one really knows, my guess is a few hours. The record is really tight and does not allow for any errors at this point. I defined my limits and will be satisfied regardless how long -or short- this records stands. My hope is that someone will look at this record and say "<i>I can do better". </i>That's what the human spirit is about, making each other better by pushing limits. Everyday I hope to make a better version of myself and continually push my own genetic makeup in some way. We won't be here forever so never look back on your life and say "<i>should have, could have, would have" </i>but rather say "<i>I did that". </i>Hopefully I've set a good enough example for my boys to know they can achieve anything they set their minds to and live their lives to the fullest.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mhKnVGMctL0/UtMUxsBwaDI/AAAAAAAAEdI/0axVFhFIqAU/s1600/the+final+paces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mhKnVGMctL0/UtMUxsBwaDI/AAAAAAAAEdI/0axVFhFIqAU/s1600/the+final+paces.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The escorts</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c88sGpaa1QU/UtMUvSQ5-3I/AAAAAAAAEcw/5cQm9X94aMk/s1600/Arms+raised.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c88sGpaa1QU/UtMUvSQ5-3I/AAAAAAAAEcw/5cQm9X94aMk/s1600/Arms+raised.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The final steps</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4dTXKOCifL8/UtMUvtQyIAI/AAAAAAAAEc0/EQtssBYHAyE/s1600/Finish+hug+from+my+wife.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4dTXKOCifL8/UtMUvtQyIAI/AAAAAAAAEc0/EQtssBYHAyE/s1600/Finish+hug+from+my+wife.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A hug from my wife. Matt with his ever-present camera</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ncXuteh1phQ/UtMUv8QhVcI/AAAAAAAAEc4/3gZ20q9w1i4/s1600/THE+CREW.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ncXuteh1phQ/UtMUv8QhVcI/AAAAAAAAEc4/3gZ20q9w1i4/s1600/THE+CREW.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The crew</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k8lqviDvyOs/UtMIm_HnXrI/AAAAAAAAEZ0/Y-HTNt8qyb8/s1600/Day+8+finish+myles+hug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k8lqviDvyOs/UtMIm_HnXrI/AAAAAAAAEZ0/Y-HTNt8qyb8/s1600/Day+8+finish+myles+hug.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Myles giving me a hug</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8VDp8kp4emI/UtMM0EuWWVI/AAAAAAAAEb8/aPtrPtYvvz0/s1600/Day+8+finish+with+jaxon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8VDp8kp4emI/UtMM0EuWWVI/AAAAAAAAEb8/aPtrPtYvvz0/s1600/Day+8+finish+with+jaxon.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jaxon telling how proud he is of me</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FzXta3rm2XA/UtMn8Wx5LQI/AAAAAAAAEdk/6Cicrflr5Us/s1600/day+8+matt+and+i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FzXta3rm2XA/UtMn8Wx5LQI/AAAAAAAAEdk/6Cicrflr5Us/s1600/day+8+matt+and+i.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look for a film by Matt Trappe this coming Spring. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xz_zjoPap14/UtMolhCQvPI/AAAAAAAAEds/iIbyyIO4Ork/s1600/finish+the+feet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xz_zjoPap14/UtMolhCQvPI/AAAAAAAAEds/iIbyyIO4Ork/s1600/finish+the+feet.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time to rest the feet</td></tr>
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<br />
<b>Myles: 105.1 (485.8)</b><br />
<b>Time: 34h 25m (152h 34m trail time)</b><br />
<b>199 hours 40 minutes and 17 seconds total time</b><br />
<b>(8 days 7 hours, 40 minutes and 17 seconds)</b><br />
<b>Elevation: 15,184 (88,895)</b><br />
<b>Myles to go: ZERO</b><br />
<b>(totals)</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Total Avg. MPH: 2.43</b><br />
<b>Avg. moving MPH: 3.18</b><br />
<b>Total sleep: 14 hours</b><br />
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<td class="xl67" height="15" style="height: 15.0pt; width: 38pt;" width="38"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; width: 166pt;" width="166"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Segment</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; width: 65pt;" width="65"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">mileage</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; width: 92pt;" width="92"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">start/finish time</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; width: 54pt;" width="54"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">time on feet</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; width: 65pt;" width="65"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">MPH</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; width: 65pt;" width="65"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Elevation gain</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Day 1</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Jxn Creek to Molas
Pass</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">73.9</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">5:00 A to 12:35 A</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">19h 35m</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">3.77</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">15,608</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Day 2</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Molas Pass to Spring
Creek Pass</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">53.3</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">6:11 A to 11:41 P</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">17h 31m</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">3.05</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">10,843</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Day 3</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Spring Creek Pass to
Hwy 114</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">55</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">5:59 A to 10:39 P</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">16h 40m</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">3.3</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">8,611</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Day 4</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Hwy 114 to US Hwy 50</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">49.9</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">5:48 A to 9:21 P</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">15h 33m</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">3.21</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">8,826</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Day 5</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">US Hwy 50 to N.
Cottonwood crk</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">43.2</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">5:40 A to 7:40 P</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">14h 0m</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">3.09</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">8,874</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Day 6</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">N. Cottonwood crk to
Timberline </span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">53.6</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">4:45 A to 9:45 P</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">17h 0m</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">3.15</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">11,082</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Day 7</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Timberline Lake to
Gold Hill</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">51.8</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">3:55 A to 9:45 P</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">17h 50m</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">2.9</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">9,867</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Day 8</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Gold Hill to Waterton
Canyon</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">105.1</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">2:15 A to 12:40 P</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">34h 25m</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">3.05</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">15,184</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl67" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"></td>
<td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">TOTAL</span></b></td>
<td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">485.8</span></b></td>
<td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">8d 7h 40m 17s</span></b></td>
<td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">152h 34m</span></b></td>
<td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">3.18</span></b></td>
<td class="xl66" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">88,895</span></b></td>
</tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-12417400461137782322013-12-30T09:58:00.001-07:002014-01-01T08:47:42.505-07:00Colorado Trail Day 7 - Timberline to Gold HillPatience and perseverance has gotten me through the last 6 days. With 150 myles to go there is no more patience, it's all out now. Little did I know this would be the most challenging day yet.<br />
<br />
Up before my 3 AM alarm, I didn't get a wink of sleep last night. Thinking about everything that has transpired and what lay ahead - my mind was racing. I was exhausted mentally and physically. But as weird as it may seem, I didn't have to think about what I was doing anymore, everything was automatic. My shins were holding up (thanks -in part- to the painful ice bath) and the energy from the crew started to grow as we got closer to Denver. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uBcCT2zWa-0/UsDIgQ3iMbI/AAAAAAAAESw/8dz0bgEl0PQ/s1600/setting+the+SPOT+day+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uBcCT2zWa-0/UsDIgQ3iMbI/AAAAAAAAESw/8dz0bgEl0PQ/s400/setting+the+SPOT+day+7.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Setting the SPOT</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Matt and I loaded up the truck around 3:45 and headed to the Timberline TH just a quarter of mile down the road. At 3:55 we set off with a full moon as our beacon. For the next hour and 5 minutes was banked time into day 6. My original schedule had me starting from Tennessee Pass today so I was still 13 myles behind the plan. Just like most days, we started off with a climb, this one was 1500 ft over the next 4 myles. By the time 5 AM came around to officially start day 7, I had only gone 3 myles, meaning I was still 10 myles behind schedule. It was great having Matt back on the trail with nonstop conversation about this adventure from different perspectives. When he wasn't with me on the trail, he was helping the crew out with logistics and made the comment "<i>It's much easier being out here on the trail...</i>" No doubt. All I had to do was to get from A to B. The crew had to risk driving with weary minds, organize logistics, and prepare food.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PoIZIsW161c/UsDIjr6J4lI/AAAAAAAAES8/ol-_X2JEukU/s1600/start+day+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PoIZIsW161c/UsDIjr6J4lI/AAAAAAAAES8/ol-_X2JEukU/s400/start+day+7.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Timberline TH about to begin with Matt Trappe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The sun was starting to come up over the Ten Mile range as we worked our way through Holy Cross Wilderness. What a beautiful stretch! Shortly after we exited the wilderness area, we entered the 10th Mountain Division Hut area while crossing a myriad of roads and some very nice bridges. The amount of work that went into constructing and maintaining the Colorado Trail was -and is- a Herculean effort. Just before getting to Tennessee Pass, as we crossed over one of these nice bridges, we encountered a couple of overnight backpackers and it was clear they wanted to talk. I was always reluctant to tell anybody what we were doing but it always came out when they wanted to know where we started.... (sheepishly) "<i>uh... Durango? 7 days ago...</i>" I knew once it was known, the conversation would be extended and that takes time, time we didn't have. At any rate, I never wanted to be rude so we stopped and talked to these two -very nice- gentlemen who were doing the entire CT over several summers. Everyone has a story on the CT, all a little different, but we share something in common: the thirst for beauty, adventure, and solitude.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1BlmsBbByNo/UsDIf2T7C-I/AAAAAAAAESg/4wqdYa45srI/s1600/scenery+day+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1BlmsBbByNo/UsDIf2T7C-I/AAAAAAAAESg/4wqdYa45srI/s400/scenery+day+7.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holy Cross Wilderness just after sunrise</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n9rtOV1oeMI/UsDIcMJiksI/AAAAAAAAER0/4XPVvLEYbNc/s1600/bridge+day+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n9rtOV1oeMI/UsDIcMJiksI/AAAAAAAAER0/4XPVvLEYbNc/s400/bridge+day+7.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the nice bridges along the way</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vErarKcwHwU/UsDId0po_NI/AAAAAAAAESY/qRxRxyYipGc/s1600/matt+and+I+day+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vErarKcwHwU/UsDId0po_NI/AAAAAAAAESY/qRxRxyYipGc/s400/matt+and+I+day+7.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little blurry but the two backpackers insisted on taking our picture</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Just past 8:30 AM we arrived at Tennessee Pass. Not particularly fast for the last segment (~3 MPH) but I was happy. The crew was set up with the same breakfast burritos as Clear Creek from yesterday... been thinking about those burritos ever since. I've also been thinking about time. If I were to stay on pace with the schedule I would now arrive at Waterton Canyon ~8 days 2 hours and some odd minutes. Thinking to myself "<i>I still have a really good shot of getting under 8 days...." </i>My thoughts really weren't that clear, it took me the better part of the day to sort that out but I knew I was in the ballpark. At any rate, I wanted to be quick with the stop while my energy was up and the day was young. I was pretty sure we'd see Bill Dooper again at TN Pass but he was nowhere to be found. I later found out that he'd been there around 7:30 AM and had since left because he thought he'd missed us. Makes sense, 8:30 AM is kinda late for Bill.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qdqzwgneIMg/UsDIbKP0joI/AAAAAAAAERg/-S51MtFCLPc/s1600/TN+pass+day+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qdqzwgneIMg/UsDIbKP0joI/AAAAAAAAERg/-S51MtFCLPc/s400/TN+pass+day+7.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rick greeting me at Tennessee Pass</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Down the railroad grade paralleling Hwy 24, we were running side by side on the double track. It was clear with the chatter that I was buzzing with energy. I wouldn't call it one of those euphoric running spurts, but we were <i>running</i> and everything else around was a blur. Double track turned into single track and <i>this trail</i> started curving away from Hwy 24 back to the 10th Mountain Division Huts. I made a comment that this didn't seem right because we should be making our way back to Hwy 24 and cross over to Camp Hale. We kept going, the trail kept looping back around, and finally I knew <i>this trail</i> wasn't right. Matt had his cell phone and looked up our location on Google Maps... sure enough we were way off. Matt ran back toward the double track -probably just over a mile- and located where we went wrong. It was an older CT blaze but clear as day. I was pissed! More-so because we had been making good time for the last few myles and all that time was lost - 45 minutes and a couple myles out of our way. I became silent and processed what had just happened. At the same time, Matt was good about verbalizing reality "<i>we can't do anything about it. It's over and just need to move forward</i>" Words of simple wisdom. It was my own mistake for not paying attention and with Matt's words, I let it go, at least I tried to.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QCNEl_sRZlI/UsDIcdM1JzI/AAAAAAAAER8/JpO6S3SbamE/s1600/determined+day+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QCNEl_sRZlI/UsDIcdM1JzI/AAAAAAAAER8/JpO6S3SbamE/s400/determined+day+7.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Focused and trying to move forward</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6ch4mLE4PKk/UsDIbOacIPI/AAAAAAAAERs/Fp5tEDl74Yg/s1600/7+fingers+day+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6ch4mLE4PKk/UsDIbOacIPI/AAAAAAAAERs/Fp5tEDl74Yg/s400/7+fingers+day+7.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 7th day and a little smile. All better.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Soon enough, we arrived at the Hwy 24 crossing with a very familiar -and unique- vehicle sitting on the side of the road at a pull out. No mistaking this green VW Westfalia - it was the Kunz'! They were on their way to their scheduled event when they decided to turn the bus around and continue on this adventure. Rob jumped out and said "<i>Do you mind if Sylvia goes with you for the next section?" </i>I was a little perplexed but Rob put it in perspective "<i>what you are doing here is far more amazing and we want to help you as much as possible". </i>I was blown away. Twenty minutes ago I was pissed off and now I felt ashamed. Even though the anger I felt was towards myself and never let it be known, I felt like that negative energy replaced all of the gratitude I should be feeling towards everyone. Poof! It was gone when the Kunz' once again joined the caravan and Sylvia brought her positivity as we made our way to Camp Hale and then further to Copper Mountain.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-03kq6ePfMKM/UsDHz10S-VI/AAAAAAAAERE/rzCmX_4w9VI/s1600/Camp+Hale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-03kq6ePfMKM/UsDHz10S-VI/AAAAAAAAERE/rzCmX_4w9VI/s400/Camp+Hale.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Through Camp Hale on our way to Kokomo Pass</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The CT parallels the road leading through Camp Hale so Rob was able to give us a couple of water stops and "a show" along the way. I'm still laughing as I type this because it's -obviously- etched in my mind. I think Sylvia was a little mortified. He would have been a great cheerleader the way he was jumping around hootin' and a hollerin'. It helped pass the time through Camp Hale - very boring and flat. You'd think the pass is no more than a mile away based on the ridge line, but it's actually 5 myles while being hot and exposed. Rob finally met us at the last possible place before the trail turned uphill for the grunt over Kokomo Pass. I was a little concerned because my crew was supposed to meet us somewhere in here. Rob had driven up the road as far as he could and turned around because he said it was nasty and couldn't find them. Later I found out that they <i>thought</i> they missed us so they made their way to Copper Mountain. In reality, because of our detour, we hadn't crossed Hwy 24 yet. The Kunz' saved our bacon there because that stretch is nearly 20 myles from Camp Hale to Copper Mountain.<br />
<br />
Four myles and 2500 feet to get to Kokomo pass. I felt solid on the climb, and if I remember correct, we got to the pass in an hour and 15 minutes (3.2 MPH). My climbing ability gave me confidence for what lay ahead but once at the pass I felt dizzy and a little out of sorts. I remember very vividly eating a huge brownie with frosting to cure the dizziness. Oh man, it tasted sooo good but it hit my gut like a lead weight as we made our way to Searle Pass. I once again entered a food coma. At the time I didn't know what was happening because I was dizzy and couldn't stay awake. I finally sat down on the side of the trail and could not move for about 10 minutes. I should of stuck to my standards of EFS liquid shot, Justin's nut butter, and Peter Rabbit fruit and veggie liquified packs. I finally got moving and soon arrived at Searle Pass as the clouds were thickening with lightning and thunder cracking really close. We stopped to put on the rain gear -quickly- and were on our way down to Copper Mountain. Within minutes it was pouring and the lighting was striking very, very close - scary stuff. That was enough to get me out of my food coma and enter into a euphoric running spurt. <br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nUG_64PJkT8/UsDpQD3sGZI/AAAAAAAAETM/D_3-K2E8ci4/s1600/minutes+before+surprised+by+boys+day+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nUG_64PJkT8/UsDpQD3sGZI/AAAAAAAAETM/D_3-K2E8ci4/s400/minutes+before+surprised+by+boys+day+7.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Pulling into the Copper Mountain parking lot</td></tr>
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I really don't know how fast I was running but I did not feel anything. I was floating over the rocks like a hovercraft, legs were numb, and lungs felt as big as hot air balloons. It was now around 4 PM and within cell phone coverage so Matt had been in contact with the crew. Because we were running low on water my Dad made his way up the trail from Copper Mountain to give some aid. Not really stopping (just long enough to down a bottle of water) because I didn't want to lose my mojo. We made our way past Copper Mountain, across Hwy 91, and were greeted by Rick. I turned into the parking lot where the caravan of cars were circled and only wanted to sit for a little bit because of the nasty looking clouds coming our way. Just before sitting down both my son's, Myles and Jaxon, came out from behind one of the vehicles and gave me the best hugs I have ever received. I still get emotional thinking about this moment. This was the defining moment of this adventure and would give me the momentum to get up over Ten Mile range and finish strong. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CiWt8EQzy6M/UsGq0JJX5eI/AAAAAAAAEUM/wWggtnQhu3U/s1600/Myles+greeting+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CiWt8EQzy6M/UsGq0JJX5eI/AAAAAAAAEUM/wWggtnQhu3U/s400/Myles+greeting+me.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Myles greeting me</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0BuNbNePd8Q/UsDpTJTxmBI/AAAAAAAAETU/Na4XdmeUtwM/s1600/Me+and+the+boys+Day+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0BuNbNePd8Q/UsDpTJTxmBI/AAAAAAAAETU/Na4XdmeUtwM/s400/Me+and+the+boys+Day+7.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Most memorable moment of the Colorado Trail</td></tr>
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So much for a quick stop, I wanted to stay forever. These comfortable pit stops were already hard to leave, and now adding my boys to mix, it becomes heart wrenching. But I know it's still nip and tuck with the time so our conversation shifted to what time I needed to be to Gold Hill and how much further I need to go today. The crew wanted me to push past Gold Hill another 5 myles with an easy access road, which sounded like a good plan to me. As I left, now with Rob Kunz and Gavin McKenzie, my boys escorted us out and shortly after parted ways. I needed music to keep this powerful emotion going over the top of Ten Mile range so I put my headphones back on. We were climbing really well and as we cleared the trees a couple of guys were coming down so I took out my headphones just in case they said something. Sure enough, they said something to the effect "<i>you guys going over the top?" </i>followed up by a <i>"well, good luck". </i>Those nasty lighting and thunder producing clouds that chased us off of Searle Pass earlier were now growing in size and following us along the top of the Ten Mile range. Uh-oh. Before we could start our descent down the Breckenridge side, the rain started to come down hard and we were soaked immediately. I had left all my barrier stuff at Copper because it was already wet and it was hot. Not only was the rain coming down but lightning was all around us and for a brief moment -very brief- I thought about going back down to the comfort of my family. We were in trouble with 10 myles to get to Gold Hill. Our only hope was for the rain to stop and get into the trees. We hustled the best we could but I was frozen and had no energy. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YlBXYJtLrmE/UsD6-9UtOaI/AAAAAAAAETk/tJAILYoi7Wo/s1600/Ten+Mile+day+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YlBXYJtLrmE/UsD6-9UtOaI/AAAAAAAAETk/tJAILYoi7Wo/s400/Ten+Mile+day+7.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Atop Ten Mile range right before it started to rain</td></tr>
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We made it into the trees, and for the moment, the rain had stopped as we turned on our headlamps. It didn't last. Within 10 minutes it started back again and I was still soaked from the first round. We were in trouble, better yet, I was trouble as I started to shiver. I needed a miracle and got it from a lone mountain biker who had set up camp and made a fire right next to the trail. He invited us in to huddle around his fire and I cannot tell you what a flame does to the soul. We spent 5 or 10 minutes, not totally dry or warm, and were on our way with a little pep in our step. Before we left I gave that guy some cookies, Justin's almond nut butter, and some other goodies for igniting our soul to which he was ecstatic.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rWE4Cz1N21Q/UsGdnGdBB5I/AAAAAAAAET0/3k16fnbX8n4/s1600/more+scenery+day+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rWE4Cz1N21Q/UsGdnGdBB5I/AAAAAAAAET0/3k16fnbX8n4/s400/more+scenery+day+7.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What had happened to our friend - the Sun?</td></tr>
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Off and on rain all the way down to Gold Hill but the good thing was that we were at lower elevation so it wasn't as cold. Although now my headlight was dying and I couldn't keep the pace. Just about that time Gavin took out one of the brightest spotlights, I mean headlamps, I have ever seen. This thing lit up the mountain side but also gave me enough energy to make it to Gold Hill. We saw the lights of Hwy 9 and Breckenridge below so that also helped, but as the trail zig and zagged the lights weren't getting any closer. The darkness once again was messing with my ability to judge distance - the last 3 myles seemingly took a few hours. It was very frustrating while being completely soaked.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Finally the lights from our crew vehicles came into view and were once again circled up at Gold Hill. As soon as they saw our headlamps, they all started honking and cheering. We had made it! Once there, people got out to greet us -briefly- as we were whisked away to the warm and dry RV. I sensed concern as they saw how soaked we were and the ten mile stare in my eyes. It was 9:45 PM and the rain was coming down in sheets at this point so I did not want to go the additional 5 myles as suggested earlier. As I scarfed down my food with dry clothes on we quickly discussed the timeline. If I were to keep going that night I should have arrived at the next access around 12:30 AM and then the North Fork of the Swan River at 3 AM. I couldn't do it. My drive and will power were crushed and decided I needed a few hours to get warm and refuel. We came to the decision that I would be on back on the trail at 2 AM with Rob and hopefully the storm would pass. I finally got horizontal at 11:30 PM and set my alarm for 1 AM. The night before I hadn't slept and tonight, if I'm lucky, I'd pass out for an hour. This would turn out to be the last time I get horizontal in the RV. A total of 6 days 16 hours and 45 minutes to this point. A little over 100 myles and 44 hours to break the record.<br />
<br />
<b>Myles: 51.8 (380.7)</b><br />
<b>Time: 17h 50m (118h 9m)</b><br />
<b>Elevation: 9,867 (73,711)</b><br />
<b>Myles to go: 105.1</b><br />
<b>(totals)</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-5988751845112798732013-12-18T11:33:00.001-07:002013-12-19T08:43:35.549-07:00Colorado Trail Day 6 - N. Cottonwood Crk to Timberline<i>The strongest steel is forged from the hottest fire. </i>A quote that defines my mindset as I left North Cottonwood Creek at 4:45 AM with Robert and Harsha. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xY-ti-zmkTE/UrHd0L5TO2I/AAAAAAAAENo/iTG9CBYXsyE/s1600/Day+6+start.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xY-ti-zmkTE/UrHd0L5TO2I/AAAAAAAAENo/iTG9CBYXsyE/s400/Day+6+start.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The crew starting day 6</td></tr>
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As day 5 ended I was behind schedule and really thought my bid for an FKT was over. With a little rest, my tired body and mind were once again rejuvenated. I was now marching up the first hill with my head down and teeth clinched. I'll admit, I had some anger pent up for the simple fact that I mentally gave up the day before. For the entire first segment (18 myles) I was thinking "<i>Get to Clear Creek unphased and pretend the day has just begun from there...". </i>Before I knew it we were there. Coupled with great conversations, fantastic views of 3 more 14ers (Columbia, Harvard, and Oxford), and another spectacular sunrise, 5 hours had gone by in what felt like 5 minutes. Honestly, Robert and Harsha were chit-chatting away -while I listened in- with the occasional "<i>Scott are you drinking</i>?" And "<i>Let's stop to eat</i>"... Other than that, I was in automatic mode and was numb to most everything.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LZyUQ3CzXl8/UrHlQDO1PaI/AAAAAAAAEO8/00qtaA9t8ok/s1600/Day+6+sunrise.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LZyUQ3CzXl8/UrHlQDO1PaI/AAAAAAAAEO8/00qtaA9t8ok/s400/Day+6+sunrise.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful sunrise</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_W5MtipINUQ/UrHWazIwmyI/AAAAAAAAEMk/lrmB3J1c_9o/s1600/with+Rob+Kunz+early+day+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_W5MtipINUQ/UrHWazIwmyI/AAAAAAAAEMk/lrmB3J1c_9o/s400/with+Rob+Kunz+early+day+6.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robert and I at sunrise</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vdfT1SRPc5o/UrHd0NBkGXI/AAAAAAAAENs/m3mR-0rj5FQ/s1600/Day+6+early+morning+stop.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vdfT1SRPc5o/UrHd0NBkGXI/AAAAAAAAENs/m3mR-0rj5FQ/s400/Day+6+early+morning+stop.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early morning stop </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5LBfMLHSKsk/UrHlPYhwJII/AAAAAAAAEOw/j7OrmUNUoBs/s1600/Day+6+another+cool+shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5LBfMLHSKsk/UrHlPYhwJII/AAAAAAAAEOw/j7OrmUNUoBs/s400/Day+6+another+cool+shot.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cool picture</td></tr>
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Numb, meaning that I was now in the moment, not thinking about what was ahead or behind me. The power of thought propelled my body forward as we descended into Clear Creek. I've mentioned a lot about food in previous posts, most of which was out of "<i>I can't believe I just ate that...</i>". It takes a lot of calories to fuel the body -even at a slower pace- and now to add to my arsenal was a new mixture of First Endurance products. Robert introduced me to Key Lime Pie, which is a combination of EFS Lemon Lime (1 scoop), Vanilla EFS liquid shot (2.5oz), topped off with water in a 20 oz bottle. Straight away I had my crew make me two bottles and from here on out this would be my <i>goto</i> juice. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VQEGiCBKU64/UrHlPY3BZMI/AAAAAAAAEO0/LAXTXNgK-PY/s1600/Day+6+flowers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VQEGiCBKU64/UrHlPY3BZMI/AAAAAAAAEO0/LAXTXNgK-PY/s400/Day+6+flowers.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early morning beauty with one of the 14ers in the distance</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RGMibC0eq50/UrHWbUc_XSI/AAAAAAAAEMo/8Ib5vRPdIC0/s1600/Day+5+Leadville.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RGMibC0eq50/UrHWbUc_XSI/AAAAAAAAEMo/8Ib5vRPdIC0/s400/Day+5+Leadville.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poles were awesome for getting over trees</td></tr>
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Up to this point, Clear Creek was my favorite crew stop. The regular crew was there and had since made a stop in Leadville to get some tasty breakfast burritos. Yum. Pretty sure Robert and Harsha would agree. Somewhere along the way, Bill Dooper, who was decked out in his Pearl Izumi shirt, joined the caravan. Bill greeted me with his standard pat on the back and -ever present- contagious smile. How can you not be happy around this man?! I sat down in a chair to visit and get him caught up on everything up to this point. <i>"Ok! You're doing great", </i>Bill exclaimed.<i> </i>Deep down my soul was revitalized with all of this support. And now coming into more familiar ground, I was determined to give the next 200 myles everything I had. I could not let these people down. They are tired -yet flawless- and every time I see them they are happy and unphased. I need to be strong, just like them. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aYz5ovm7xJs/UrHZ9XOG5AI/AAAAAAAAENI/sAG_3iTH7Ro/s1600/Day+6+almighty+burrito.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aYz5ovm7xJs/UrHZ9XOG5AI/AAAAAAAAENI/sAG_3iTH7Ro/s400/Day+6+almighty+burrito.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying breakfast burritos!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9f6PSI2HvwY/UrHaAKPpXLI/AAAAAAAAENQ/duXRv8d-L5U/s1600/Day+6+Bill+Dooper+greeting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9f6PSI2HvwY/UrHaAKPpXLI/AAAAAAAAENQ/duXRv8d-L5U/s400/Day+6+Bill+Dooper+greeting.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bill Dooper's contagious smile</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3KqVWLSISto/UrHZ8y6WAXI/AAAAAAAAENE/0M6aND6rOLM/s1600/Day+6+Bill+Dooper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3KqVWLSISto/UrHZ8y6WAXI/AAAAAAAAENE/0M6aND6rOLM/s400/Day+6+Bill+Dooper.jpg" width="305" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting ready to leave</td></tr>
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I've been married to Nicole for nearly 20 years so I know every look she gives me, good and bad. As she helps me out the chair I see a very concerned look on her face. She hugs me then walks me out of the Clear Creek aid station with her arm around me saying (while sobbing) <i>"It's so hard to see you suffer like this". </i>I guess she knows every look on my face too, I can't hide anything from her. I am weary but my body is holding up well. Last time on the CT during day 6 my shins started giving me trouble. Severe shins splints were extremely painful by the end, taping them every day, and sometimes walking downhill backwards. Since the second day that Brandon had given me tips about preventing this from happening again, I had practiced landing mid-foot going downhill instead of a heel strike. So far so good. My body is the one major item that can put this journey to a screeching halt, so I am thankful. I tell Nicole as I leave, "<i>I knew what I was getting myself into when I signed up for this thing so now</i> <i>I've gotta see it through and push till I can't push anymore</i>". <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bjvw9Ud_yEE/UrHaAirr1qI/AAAAAAAAENY/Ewk68pvfRGQ/s1600/Day+6+leaving+Clear+Creek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bjvw9Ud_yEE/UrHaAirr1qI/AAAAAAAAENY/Ewk68pvfRGQ/s400/Day+6+leaving+Clear+Creek.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving Clear Creek</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XjVTVwCVMWU/UrHWdSqM0UI/AAAAAAAAEMs/A_zdk_1Pzzs/s1600/Day+5+clear+creek.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XjVTVwCVMWU/UrHWdSqM0UI/AAAAAAAAEMs/A_zdk_1Pzzs/s320/Day+5+clear+creek.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Nicole</td></tr>
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<br />
Robert was now switching places with his wife Sylvia. The three of us (Harsha, Sylvia, and myself) started the short climb out of Clear Creek onto some flatter stuff for the next 10 myles. I remember this section being very exposed and hotter than normal. My two bottles of Key Lime Pie might not be enough to get me to Twin Lakes. Having new people at my side is always refreshing. I always get a sense of not wanting to let them down by going too slow. Needless to say, our pace quickens on the flat portions of the trail. With the good spirits all around, Harsha broke out his music playing device. Prior to coming out Harsha had promised to learn a couple of songs from my favorite band (Godsmack) and sing out loud to pass the time. Sully Erna started belting out songs from his album Avalon but Harsha was not singing... I think he was a little embarrassed because he didn't know Sylvia all that well. To his credit, he said he tried to learn the songs but could not understand a word of this "angry music"... I was really looking forward to Harsha serenading me but just didn't happen. Music is my escape during longs runs and with someone by my side for the entire trip so far, I hadn't put my headphones on yet. So hearing Sully Erna brought out a bunch of emotion and new energy. The energy that had slowly been wearing off since leaving Clear Creek was back again as we descended into the South side of Twin Lakes. This new energy and downward trend towards Twin Lakes helped pick up the pace and before long we were crossing the dam across lower Twin Lakes. <br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b_XrV4hp9LU/UrHd0OI59sI/AAAAAAAAENw/lLV__p4C7AU/s1600/Day+6+running+the+road.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b_XrV4hp9LU/UrHd0OI59sI/AAAAAAAAENw/lLV__p4C7AU/s400/Day+6+running+the+road.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Running the flatter stuff with Sylvia</td></tr>
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As we started crossing the dam, Bill Dooper showed up again, this time with Gavin McKenzie. He made a comment on how fast we had moved over the last 8 myles, around 2 hours. Not fast by running standards but this far along into the journey, averaging 4 mph on any extended portion of the trail was a moral victory for me. We didn't chat much because the crew stop was just up the road. Or so I thought. For some reason, this section of trail paralleling Hwy 82 is especially long (in my mind). In reality it's <i>only </i>3 myles until you cross the road to the Lakeview campground, it just takes forever. Thank goodness my parents had stopped at the parking lot as we crossed the dam because I was all out of liquids. I downed a bottle of water, refilled another and set off again. It was nearly 2 PM when we arrived at the Lakeview campgrounds and I remember feeling a bit groggy and grumpy. Maybe from the rush of emotion the music gave me, kinda like a sugar rush, and now I was experiencing the crash. Either way it was a roller coaster of energy all day. Because of my grumpiness and ahead of schedule, I decided to make this stop fairly quick so that I could knock out the remaining 20+ myles to Timberline (May Queen).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o74GZepLnmk/UrHlQ49_NaI/AAAAAAAAEPY/EWR8w7o6nNk/s1600/day+6+with+harsha.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o74GZepLnmk/UrHlQ49_NaI/AAAAAAAAEPY/EWR8w7o6nNk/s400/day+6+with+harsha.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving Lakeview (Twin Lakes) with Harsha<br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lNkxfqYF4gE/UrHWY0Pl8xI/AAAAAAAAEMc/Z2sVLJPOkL4/s1600/Day+5+aspens.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lNkxfqYF4gE/UrHWY0Pl8xI/AAAAAAAAEMc/Z2sVLJPOkL4/s400/Day+5+aspens.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Beautiful aspens</td></tr>
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Leaving with Harsha, I decided to put on my headphones for the next segment over to Half Moon road. I kinda felt bad for not being social but I needed to zone out with my <i>angry </i>music. The food from the stop didn't put me in any food comas, in fact, it revitalized me immediately. This roller coaster of energy would come and go pretty quick, usually hour long spurts. The music, familiar flat single track, and the food all came together to create another one of those amazing running spurts I had experienced a couple days ago around Sargent's Mesa. I was running everything. Harsha led me out and kept looking back to check on me and each time he did I took it up a notch. By the time we had reached the final descent leading into Half Moon road we were putting down mid 8 to 9 minute myles. I was amped up coming into Half Moon/Mt Massive trail head. I acted like it was race and I needed to get out quick. Well, for all intents and purposes, this was a race but I was racing a ghost, Paul Pomeroy's ghost. I downed a Coke (or two), ate more food, refilled my bottles and we were on our way to the Fish Hatchery.<br />
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<i>Listening to 'angry' music, blowing my nose and (apparently) wiping my boogers on trees while tripping over rocks.</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-USfawQkjU7E/UrHlQhyjHhI/AAAAAAAAEPE/PE9x5O3_dMs/s1600/day+6+leaving+halfmoon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-USfawQkjU7E/UrHlQhyjHhI/AAAAAAAAEPE/PE9x5O3_dMs/s400/day+6+leaving+halfmoon.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mount Massive TH</td></tr>
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It's along this stretch that I begin to crunch the numbers, something my crew had been doing for the past couple of days. I was still behind schedule but making time back and by the end of the day I'd only be 12 myles behind schedule. The initial schedule would have put me into Waterton canyon at 7 days 21 hours. Now I was more likely end up 8 days and between 5-10 hours. But I was still 170 myles from there so I let those thoughts be drowned out by the music. As long as I keep putting one foot in front of the other I would have a good shot at the FKT.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tc22RrX3bVE/UrHjQyYG8fI/AAAAAAAAEOo/d9HcAgxIXfU/s1600/Day+6+cool+shot.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="237" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tc22RrX3bVE/UrHjQyYG8fI/AAAAAAAAEOo/d9HcAgxIXfU/s320/Day+6+cool+shot.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just another cool picture</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nQw2gBH6GpM/UrHlPTSy_gI/AAAAAAAAEO4/cEHYApHu-IE/s1600/Day+6+harsha+selfie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nQw2gBH6GpM/UrHlPTSy_gI/AAAAAAAAEO4/cEHYApHu-IE/s320/Day+6+harsha+selfie.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Harsha having a little fun with a selfie</td></tr>
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It began to rain as we descended the trail above the Fish Hatchery area. I put on a jacket and took out my headphones because it wasn't creating a spark for me anymore. I needed to change it up a bit. I turned around and Harsha was nowhere to be found. That concerned me. Had I been so tuned out that Harsha decided to ditch me? It was nearly 7 PM and we were losing daylight so it was time to stop and put on lights and warmer clothes. Harsha caught up while I was chowing down on a Snickers bar and explained that he stopped to call his kids and tell them goodnight. My heart sank because I hadn't spoken to my kids in a week. Harsha then dialed my home number and I got hear my kids voices for what seem like an eternity. I was very emotional talking and, in fact, found myself not saying anything at all because I wanted to hear them talk. And yet they wanted to know everything I'd been doing. It was one of those moments on the trail that will be etched in my memory forever. I remember feeling how special my boys are to me and how they can seemingly take away all my pain with their pure innocence and unconditional love. Thank you Harsha for creating that special moment for me. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5rr7ekZ0ZFk/UrHlQSaqpxI/AAAAAAAAEPc/uw8HZxsZhs8/s1600/day+6+cellphone.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5rr7ekZ0ZFk/UrHlQSaqpxI/AAAAAAAAEPc/uw8HZxsZhs8/s400/day+6+cellphone.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calling my boys</td></tr>
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For the next couple of hours I felt guilty for being out there. At this point, the only thing I had control over was to get home as quickly as possible. But as darkness consumed us, so did fatigue. I had been eating and drinking well all day and had enough calories on me to last a couple days. Even so, every time I left an aid station, Nicole or Rick would hand an Ensure to whomever was pacing me. I always refused it and they ended up carrying it. Well Harsha was persistent, he kept asking so I finally told him he might as well drink it cause I wasn't going to.... It wasn't until it got dark that I all of a sudden wanted the Ensure.... I turned to Harsha to get it and he said, "<i>you told me you didn't want it, so I drank half of it. You still want it?</i>". Can you blame him? I mean, he was carrying that thing for 8+ hours. It was these little things that agitated me when I had no right. Obviously this was an emotional day for me and it just showed that the trail was stripping me down to the core. As previously mentioned, the darkness has a way of making the trail go on forever which further got me agitated. Harsha later told me that he couldn't believe how positive I was all day long. At one point we started talking about sleep and apparently I said "<i>Yeah sleep would be nice but people who get records make scarifies.... I can't afford to sleep in". </i>It's amazing that what I was saying was not always what I was thinking. <br />
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I kept thinking that Power Line road was just around the next bend and the next... Some 45 minutes later we arrived at Power Line road and then I knew for sure the Timberline trail head was just a few myles away. Finally we crossed a bridge that popped us out to the parking lot. Th<span style="text-align: center;">e Kunz', my parents, and Rick were all there to greet Harsha and I. (Thank you Kunz' for your amazing support the last couple of days. They are now headed to their intended event... or so I thought.) It had been a long emotional day but now I was a little over 150 myles from the finish and the light at the end of the tunnel started to sparkle.</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-align: center;">I was quickly whisked away to the RV at a nearby campsite. Food and Ultragen were ready when I arrived so I quickly put them down the hatch and got horizontal. Just as I did Rick and my wife told me I had to ice my shins. The thought of dipping my lower legs into freezing water created a bunch of anxiety and phantom pains shot through my already freezing body. "NO WAY!" I said. I couldn't brace myself enough mentally to handle it. But they wouldn't let it rest so I gave in and bit the bullet. "HOLY SHIT!" (and probably hundreds of other expletives) Pins and needles were shooting through my legs as they timed me for what seemed like an hour. Probably only a minute or so but every second was agonizing. I hadn't had any problems with my shins up to this point -and wanted to keep it that way- so that's why I finally agreed. </span><br />
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Finally horizontal around 11:45 but an hour later I was still wide awake. I was thinking about the finish and every so often I'd find myself getting emotional at the thought. This FKT was within my reach but it was nip and tuck according to the numbers. I only had 6 hours of down time while averaging 3 MPH on the trail ahead for the record. I needed to get back on the trail early and put as much banked time before 5 AM as possible. <span style="text-align: center;">And because of all this mental stimulation, I really didn't sleep a wink all night and was up before my 3 AM alarm - laser focused and teeth clinched. Let's get this done!</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Myles: 53.6 (328.9)</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Time: 17h (100h 19m)</b></div>
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<b>Elevation: 11,082 (63,844)</b></div>
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<b>Myles to go: 156.9</b></div>
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<b>(totals)</b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-49509670781735958362013-11-24T14:03:00.000-07:002013-11-25T08:51:05.801-07:00Colorado Trail Day 5 - Hwy 50 to N. Cottonwood Crk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Spirits were high knowing today would present fresh faces with fast terrain.</div>
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The best night of sleep so far. I passed out around 10:45 PM and would wake up to my alarm at 3:30 AM. Each day my intention was to get started at 5 AM but I was always late. I told Bryon to meet us at Hwy 50 at 5:45 AM because of my zombie-like state last night. The terrain was more forgiving today; flatter and lower elevation. So starting later today would not be a problem because I <i>thought</i> I'd be traveling close to 4 MPH for most of the day. I mistakenly discounted the distance and growing fatigue on my mind and body.<br />
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Bryon and I got started at 5:40 AM, and although a bit chilly, it was slated to be a gorgeous day, if not hot. I'll admit I was a little nervous starting with Bryon, only because I didn't want to disappoint him. He and Meghan Hicks had just been covering the Leadville 100 run and were on their way home so they decided to spend a day with me. I'll be honest, I felt pressure to perform. I didn't want anything leaking out that I was painfully slow but rather strong and smiling throughout the day. I know that's shallow thinking but those thoughts entered my mind early in the day. Once we saw the sunrise, all shallowness was washed away. We were treated to an amazing sunrise - orange and red with a layer of soft clouds. "<i>That is awesome</i>" exclaimed Bryon, as he snapped pictures left and right. The guy is very talented; he can snap pictures while running backwards (never tripped) and carry on a full conversation. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kHp8hi-REg8/UpAF-rfuk7I/AAAAAAAAEHs/Fi52S9YY74c/s1600/First+light+day+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kHp8hi-REg8/UpAF-rfuk7I/AAAAAAAAEHs/Fi52S9YY74c/s400/First+light+day+5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amazing sunrise with Bryon Powell</td></tr>
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The sunrise gave us a little charge, and right on cue to my morning surge. Granted, my morning surges were getting pretty pathetic at this point but I looked forward to them nonetheless. They were usually hallmarked with energetic conversation and positivity of what the day had in store for me. Thirteen myles into the day we arrived at the first -remote- pit stop. I was now officially half way home. No celebrations, just a Coke and a smile. Oh, and a McGriddle?? Buena Vista was just down the road and I guess at some point I murmured that a McGriddle would be awesome! I chowed it down and walked away for the next 10 minutes in disbelief. It was so good but went against every nutrition principle I believed in. Honestly the last time I had been in McDonald's was the last time I finished the Colorado Trail - 4 years ago. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UJvx_o8lMnQ/UpInhZIYEOI/AAAAAAAAEJU/YoQ46GtbDb0/s1600/Trail+Porn+early+Day+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UJvx_o8lMnQ/UpInhZIYEOI/AAAAAAAAEJU/YoQ46GtbDb0/s400/Trail+Porn+early+Day+5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Aspens are thick through here</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vq7CVVTzLuc/UpInlMx3P2I/AAAAAAAAEJs/_JcaSRDXfIo/s1600/Remote+stop+Day+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vq7CVVTzLuc/UpInlMx3P2I/AAAAAAAAEJs/_JcaSRDXfIo/s400/Remote+stop+Day+5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Coke and a (half) smile<br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-799_PSW33hc/UpInj684u_I/AAAAAAAAEJo/4o5GTnol3lk/s1600/first+pit+stop+day+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-799_PSW33hc/UpInj684u_I/AAAAAAAAEJo/4o5GTnol3lk/s400/first+pit+stop+day+5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Remote Stop</td></tr>
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Rob and Sylvia Kunz will now join Bryon and I for the remaining 7 myles to Chalk Creek. After I got over my initial shock of downing a McGriddle, I endured a little bit of a food coma for the rest of Segment 14. Ironically, we are still moving really well because the terrain was flat and forgiving, in addition to the new faces giving me a charge. We have now left the Aspens and are into the Pinyon pines skirting around the base of Mt Antero. Mt Antero is one of three 14ers (Shavano and Tabeguache the other two) we have passed in this section so far, so the relief to our left is absolutely spectacular. I hadn't noticed much of it with my head down but Bryon was still snapping off 3 or 4 pictures per minute while commenting about the beauty. His comments caused me to be silent for a bit and really reflect on where I was and what I was doing. Living in Colorado I often take access to wilderness for granted and will only take a step back when someone mentions how lucky we are to live here. I felt like the luckiest man alive in this moment and really had to choke back my emotions. Here I am doing this very selfish adventure and I have more than 25 people helping me along the way. This really hit home as we descended into Chalk Creek with Rob, Silvia, and Bryon out in front, while being greeted by my support crew of more than 5 vehicles and 10 more people. This is truly amazing. As much as my fatigued was growing, my crew seemed to reach down deep in my soul and flip a switch of rejuvenation. Support on and off the trail was vital!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T1O3dsX8pxE/UpInbrJsRiI/AAAAAAAAEI4/xNF9vHvIu5I/s1600/Rob+and+Syliva+kunz+Mt+Shavano+day+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T1O3dsX8pxE/UpInbrJsRiI/AAAAAAAAEI4/xNF9vHvIu5I/s400/Rob+and+Syliva+kunz+Mt+Shavano+day+5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Rob and Sylvia Kunz. Taberguache over my left shoulder</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--uYiWEp7HFY/UpIncULb3TI/AAAAAAAAEJE/Rd9uZAJs0G8/s1600/Mt+yale+with+sylvia+kunz+day+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--uYiWEp7HFY/UpIncULb3TI/AAAAAAAAEJE/Rd9uZAJs0G8/s400/Mt+yale+with+sylvia+kunz+day+5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Sylvia Kunz. Mt Princeton straight ahead. </td></tr>
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Meghan Hicks has traded places with Bryon for the next 23 myles; he shuttles the Prius and she enjoys beauty. As we (Rob, Sylvia, and Meghan) leave the comfort of the pit stop I am not looking forward to the asphalt section ahead. It's getting hot and the gentle downward slope has us running right past Mt Princeton hot springs. I can't help but think how nice one of those pools would be right now. The downward slope is now over as we start to climb towards Mt Princeton base. My legs are sludge and the heat is melting me. This is painfully slow and feels surprisingly longer than 3 myles of pavement indicated in the Colorado Trail guide book. To pass the time I ask everyone to name three people they would like to have dinner with and why. I got the idea from Aric Manning on a FB post and I thought it was interesting as to who and why people were picked. In this group we had Abe Lincoln, Fidel Castro, MLK, amongst others. I don't remember the whys but you can imagine. <br />
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Segment 13 is deceivingly tough with 5300 ft of climbing in 23 myles. The first part of the segment is up and over a little rise to South Cottonwood creek, not too difficult, but the second part has a 3000+ climb in 9 myles. Most of the first part was a blur to me because the upcoming climb was weighing heavy on my mind. But one conversation about human potential was memorable. I love to define my own genetic potential, first and foremost, and then see how it compares to others. FKTs are for defining genetic potential and racing is for comparing it to others. Rob asked "Do you think the 2 hour barrier in the marathon will be broken in our lifetime?" I said no. It will be broken but not in our lifetime. What <i>is </i>possible? The mind is the limiting factor. That's what intrigues me about human potential. Just when we think we've defined our limits we push a little farther the next time with the right conditions. Familiarity of that mental aspect of what <i>a limit</i> feels like, makes the difference of going past it or not. In my case, I did the Colorado Trail 4 years ago and it was the hardest thing I had done in my life. Once the pain and fatigue were a distant memory I starting preparing for my attempt to break the FKT. I knew I was capable of something in the 8 day range, but exactly what, I didn't know. This conversation passed the time -mentally- for the entire 14 mile first part of the segment. Next thing I know we're dropping into South Cottonwood creek and the crew was once again set up. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qzSv2wNSSzU/UpInYjLFhzI/AAAAAAAAEIk/ZMYIjTtW1eY/s1600/20%252B+myles+day+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qzSv2wNSSzU/UpInYjLFhzI/AAAAAAAAEIk/ZMYIjTtW1eY/s400/20%252B+myles+day+5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rolling into South Cottonwood creek around 4 PM</td></tr>
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My fully loaded breakfast burrito and Ensure are down the hatch and I'm eager to get back on the trail. It's only a 15 minute stop but daylight is burning. If I had any hope of making it 60 myles today I gotta go and my crew knows it. I had been putting off the conversation of cutting the day short since leaving Hwy 114 a couple days ago, but before I leave, Rick and I talk. They are concerned that there are no crew access points for 18 myles after North Cottonwood Creek (NCC). I was now concerned. NCC is only 9 myles away but 3000+ feet stand in the way, which means 3+ hours. Rick asks me to think about stopping at NCC and get a fresh start early in the morning. No decision was made, just think about it. Reflecting on this now, I was starting later and finishing earlier each day as a consequence of sheer exhaustion. It was just a matter of falling off that razors edge before my entire FKT attempt would be in jeopardy. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3TPzMpsCcq4/UpJcyPFUHEI/AAAAAAAAEKM/dnTD2ZTVacI/s1600/Sun+is+getting+low.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3TPzMpsCcq4/UpJcyPFUHEI/AAAAAAAAEKM/dnTD2ZTVacI/s400/Sun+is+getting+low.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sun is getting low</td></tr>
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Once back on the trail now with Matt Trappe and Meghan, we continued the conversation about genetic potential. I was still buzzing about it from earlier and I noticed our pace picked up once we started talking again. We crossed South Cottonwood Creek road and began the stiff climb to the pass just below Mt Yale (yet another 14er). My legs were given a short break today from all the climbing so I was eager to see how they responded. The good news is that I was climbing really well and got into a nice rhythm. I didn't want to stop, not even once during the climb, but I could tell my energy flow was waining. I wanted to get to NCC before sundown so that I could convince my crew to let me trudge on for the final 18 myles to Clear Creek. Once at the top of the climb we took a food break and something was a little off in me. I was processing everything just fine in my brain but what was coming out of my mouth was not the same. I sloughed it off externally but internally I knew this was a "new low". For the first time on this journey I didn't want to push on into the night. Was I at the tipping point of my journey? Could I still get the fastest time on the trail if I stopped at NCC? Doubt set in. To get my mind off these thoughts we started talking about predictions on who would win UTMB. My favorite was Dylan Bowman. Little did I know he had busted up his ankle and would not start. </div>
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This steep downhill was killing my quads. My uphill was way faster than this downhill. In 3 myles we lost 2500 ft of elevation, very similar to the backside of Hope pass. Coupled with my mental state, I just wanted to be off the trail. Around 1/2 way down we ran into Harsha Nagaraj, who came out to pace me the following day. It was another mental spark I needed to make it the remaining 2 myles to NCC. Harsha has a great (dry) sense of humor -and I usually laugh- but right now I wasn't getting it. I was barely processing anything rational. And with all the bitching I was doing about how steep this section was, I only wanted to know how much farther. We rounded a corner and there was my Dad. I nearly broke down. In a sense I wanted him to save me and tell me it's going to be alright. He said "<i>you're doing great, son. Almost there</i>." It was comforting but I was hurting. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UX2Ie1e0zk4/UpJgpndFR0I/AAAAAAAAEKk/LgicMVVEiEY/s1600/Meeting+harsha+Day+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 13px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UX2Ie1e0zk4/UpJgpndFR0I/AAAAAAAAEKk/LgicMVVEiEY/s400/Meeting+harsha+Day+5.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meeting up with Harsha</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4st4XRuyd14/UpJgpJa6lhI/AAAAAAAAEKY/kJScfqeXMeU/s1600/Coming+down+Day+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 13px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4st4XRuyd14/UpJgpJa6lhI/AAAAAAAAEKY/kJScfqeXMeU/s400/Coming+down+Day+5.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming down</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gG13mIS9PFA/UpJgpE1rVhI/AAAAAAAAEKg/yDmcTmp4nA4/s1600/Final+road+Day+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 13px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gG13mIS9PFA/UpJgpE1rVhI/AAAAAAAAEKg/yDmcTmp4nA4/s400/Final+road+Day+5.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Final mile of the day</td></tr>
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The sun was lost in this narrow canyon as I rolled into the campsite. No one needed to tell me I was done for the day, I knew it. We all huddled around in a semi-circle and before Rick could even finish stating the obvious, I cut him off and said "<i>alright, that's it for today. I'll start around 4 AM to get a head start</i>". Everyone was just as relieved as I was. By 9 PM I had been fed and was vertical in the RV -not sleeping- just letting my body calm down. People were coming by the RV to say hello and check on me. Bryon and Meghan were now heading back home to Utah, but before they did, Bryon gave me another beer and told me how amazing the (Princton) hot springs were... The beer made up for the comment. </div>
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I was fine with a belly full of food but I couldn't help but think it was over. I had only gone 43 myles and I needed to 60 to have any shot at the FKT. I kept asking if anyone knew if I was still ahead of Paul Pomeroy's splits, but no one knew. Up to this point I was ahead based on making it past the San Juan's in two days, but in my mind, we were probably even now. </div>
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Before everyone settling in, we made plans to start in the morning around 4:30 AM with Harsha and Rob. Rob and Sylvia were supposed to be headed to the USA Pro Challenge, in which First Endurance was a sponsor, but they wanted to continue to support me with this journey. That meant a lot to me. As much as I was having a pity party for the shortened day, all of this support helped me turn the corner, grit my teeth, and commit to giving it every ounce of my being to get to Waterton Canyon under 8 and 1/2 days. I was now exploring that realm of redefining my limits.</div>
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<b>Myles: 43.2 (275.3)</b></div>
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<b>Time: 14h (83h 19m)</b></div>
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<b>Elevation: 8874 (52,762)</b></div>
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<b>Myles to go: 210.5</b></div>
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<b>(totals)</b><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-46782274682089622002013-11-11T09:12:00.000-07:002013-11-18T08:38:55.139-07:00Colorado Trail Day 4 - Hwy 114 to Hwy 50<i>Barring any mechanical breakdown, the body will do twice as much as the mind thinks it will - </i>Peter Bakwin after his double Hardrock. This quote was on my mind as I settled into bed at Buffalo Creek campground. The body was holding up but the mind was second guessing.<br />
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Even though I had achieved my daily goal of finishing before 11 PM yesterday, we still had to drive a few myles down the road to the campground. Once there my ritual of eating, icing the shins, and cleaning off began. My Mom has made some homemade pinto beans so I took my time to enjoy -at least- 5 burritos. This meant I wouldn't actually lie down until almost 1 AM. But those two hours of settling in became normal routine. What I learned is that my body and mind became more settled after a couple of hours and my sleep was much more restful rather than tossing and turning. <br />
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Up the next morning at 3:30 AM. I still had it in my mind that I was going to get ahead of schedule to cut into those final two days. Still no soreness in the muscles just an overall malaise and each morning it was getting more difficult to tear my back away from my mattress. I <i>only </i>had 50 myles today, which was the shortest so far, and with plenty of access points after Hwy 50 my thinking was to add 5 to 10 myles. But one step at a time so I would make that decision later. For now though, I commenced with my normal breakfast routine: Muesli mixed with fruit and hot tea, got up to date on the previous day behind the scenes events, and out the door by 5:30 AM.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PfxOB3PJAvY/UoD6KK7gchI/AAAAAAAAEG0/o83_TI7nmeg/s1600/start+of+day+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PfxOB3PJAvY/UoD6KK7gchI/AAAAAAAAEG0/o83_TI7nmeg/s400/start+of+day+4.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start of Day 4</td></tr>
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Today I would start with Rick Hessek and Matt Trappe. My father-in-law would drop us off at the TH and we were on our way at 5:45 AM. Just like we finished last night, it was cold again. Probably in the low 30s but the forecast for the day was to be in the 60/70 range with blue skies. We were greeted with a nice little climb along a dirt road for about two myles. Once at the top we shed some clothing and arrived just in time for light to be spread across the Arkansas Valley - spectacular views! Those views sparked motivation deep in my soul and I know it had an affect on the other guys because we started chatting about how lucky we were to be out here.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3AKMsrOuyPg/Un-zMeUN7sI/AAAAAAAAEDY/BrR5k8bgGxI/s1600/early+morning+views+Day+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3AKMsrOuyPg/Un-zMeUN7sI/AAAAAAAAEDY/BrR5k8bgGxI/s400/early+morning+views+Day+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early Views</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P7PGWZ0nES4/Un-xuZHA19I/AAAAAAAAEBw/yuyYid6aKX0/s1600/First+light+Day+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="264" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P7PGWZ0nES4/Un-xuZHA19I/AAAAAAAAEBw/yuyYid6aKX0/s400/First+light+Day+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Light</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c2em9J2tPyY/Un-zUbHQ33I/AAAAAAAAEDs/9M0tCpRBzRo/s1600/hole+in+tree+Day+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="255" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c2em9J2tPyY/Un-zUbHQ33I/AAAAAAAAEDs/9M0tCpRBzRo/s400/hole+in+tree+Day+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cool shot</td></tr>
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From the top of this climb we are now traversing a ridge line for the next 5 or so myle<span style="text-align: center;">s and it's constant up and down on a rutted out trail. As with any morning run, my system gets going after about an hour and I have to <i>go in the woods</i>. Remember those burritos from last night? Yep, those things were not agreeing with me right now. As much time as I was spending on the trail, it was inevitable for something not to agree with me. For the next hour or so I continually stopped to get rid of pretty much everything in my system. Coupled with not putting (hardly) anything back in, I was running on empty 5 hours into the day. The one thing I had that I know has agreed with me in previous races was my rocket fuel - </span><a href="http://www.firstendurance.com/nutrition/efs-liquid-shot.html" style="text-align: center;">EFS liquid shot</a><span style="text-align: center;">. Usually I can catch a bonk before it gets too bad but there's always some downtime. Over the course of an hour or so I labored along waiting for the EFS LS to get into my system. With a few stops here and there and a few dizzy episodes, I finally caught my energy again. But now I was out of wipes....</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--fIPfJLdebM/Un-x36VYNnI/AAAAAAAAECA/Rxxna62toHE/s1600/Grimice+Day+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="264" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--fIPfJLdebM/Un-x36VYNnI/AAAAAAAAECA/Rxxna62toHE/s400/Grimice+Day+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not feeling it</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2hbyVxn465A/Un-xAbsmBwI/AAAAAAAAEAw/gtGGnq06YP0/s1600/10+miles+in+Day+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2hbyVxn465A/Un-xAbsmBwI/AAAAAAAAEAw/gtGGnq06YP0/s400/10+miles+in+Day+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Managed a smile despite the way I was feeling</td></tr>
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The first time we would see the crew was at Sargent's Mesa - 20 myles from Hwy 114. Half way there and the trail is just a nasty myriad of baby head rocks. It's flat and wide but <b>rocks</b> everywhere. I was starting to come out of my fog and do a bit jogging. I always knew my energy level was coming back because our conversations became longer. I very vividly remember talking about nutrition and how America is conditioned for convenience, which results in a lot of processed unhealthy food. Deep thoughts about how we were going to revolutionize the North American diet. It's a problem that probably won't be fixed anytime soon. The trail eased up on the rocks and I could sense we were getting close based on time. Then we passed two thru hikers who said "you must be Fast Eddy"... they had passed -and been fed by- my crew at Sargent's Mesa and indicated we were only a mile or so away. That put a little pep in my step. This was a crew stop that was agreed upon this morning so I was more realistic on a timetable. Arriving just before noon and although I was now feeling relatively good I needed this break. Nicole and Rick had laid out a smorgasbord of food. Just like Snow Mesa, the views up here are expansive and with a blue bird day, it was a great day to be alive.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WP1OHflVhDY/UoD3BoHfUbI/AAAAAAAAEF0/jYP2Ob_gHEQ/s1600/My+wife+Sargents+Day+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WP1OHflVhDY/UoD3BoHfUbI/AAAAAAAAEF0/jYP2Ob_gHEQ/s400/My+wife+Sargents+Day+4.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nicole, Livvy, and Hampton at Sargent's Mesa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0XxEMh3T3sw/UoD3Eeo3VzI/AAAAAAAAEGI/RVSAq6VMSeU/s1600/Rick+Day+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0XxEMh3T3sw/UoD3Eeo3VzI/AAAAAAAAEGI/RVSAq6VMSeU/s400/Rick+Day+4.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rick at Sargent's Mesa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8eU65T8Ph-c/UoDs574WL6I/AAAAAAAAEEI/R1_uhJwp_Ng/s1600/Day+4+food.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8eU65T8Ph-c/UoDs574WL6I/AAAAAAAAEEI/R1_uhJwp_Ng/s400/Day+4+food.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The spread</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WxHWxIMD7sM/UoD3GCEe8cI/AAAAAAAAEGU/-TF1S32o-B4/s1600/Sargents+Mesa+Day+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WxHWxIMD7sM/UoD3GCEe8cI/AAAAAAAAEGU/-TF1S32o-B4/s400/Sargents+Mesa+Day+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm doing my best to smile</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0imBjFA9e3s/UoD6fH5NGlI/AAAAAAAAEG8/T2-qSqhqllk/s1600/the+crew+sargents+day+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0imBjFA9e3s/UoD6fH5NGlI/AAAAAAAAEG8/T2-qSqhqllk/s400/the+crew+sargents+day+4.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The crew at Sargent's Mesa</td></tr>
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Around 20 minutes after I arrived, I was back on the trail headed <i>down</i> for the next 4 or 5 myles. I thought for sure I would have to endure a two hour food coma because of all the food I ate. But something different happened. The trail was relatively rock free, a downward trend, and I was on fire. I was running the best I'd been since leaving Durango. Matt and Rick will have to attest to this but I bet I was running about 8 minutes per mile (7.5mph), more than double my usual speed. The faster I ran, the more I wanted to run. It's hard to explain what came over me but I was motivated to get to Marshall's pass ahead of schedule and send a message to my crew that I was alright. As I recall, this running spurt lasted for the better part of two hours and with only 7 myles to Marshall pass, I was way ahead for this segment. Nothing lasts forever and I could tell the wind was falling out of my sail, but nonetheless inspired. I knew it could happen again as long as I took care of myself. The euphoric running officially ended at the base of a two mile grunt that greeted on our way to the Continental Divide. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6mQy3-Cxd-Y/Un-ybOL3YWI/AAAAAAAAECg/kfzHhpeT30E/s1600/Meadow+Day+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6mQy3-Cxd-Y/Un-ybOL3YWI/AAAAAAAAECg/kfzHhpeT30E/s400/Meadow+Day+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gotta get to the base of that mountain (Mt Ouray 13,971) to reach Marshall's Pass</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HNZnT54i864/Un-xu-XY4_I/AAAAAAAAEB0/CNkxtK4_Bng/s1600/Good+running+section+Day+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HNZnT54i864/Un-xu-XY4_I/AAAAAAAAEB0/CNkxtK4_Bng/s400/Good+running+section+Day+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let the euphoric running begin</td></tr>
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Up until now I had always climbed better than anything else but this hill I really struggled. We were nearly at 12,000 ft so maybe that played into my fatigue -maybe not- I just know that my lows were becoming lower. Not only were lows-lower but they became more sustained. Once we passed through a gate on the Continental Divide I knew we had less than 4 myles to the Marshall's Pass -and better yet- it was all downhill. It was just after 4 PM when we hit the final dirt road leading into the pit stop and I noticed I was becoming clumsy. I had been kicking a bunch of rocks. Rocks that make you turn around to look for the culprit, saying "<i>what the hell did I just kick?!?</i>". All the while muscles are seizing up trying to catch the fall. I wasn't falling just stumbling. So I told Matt that I wanted him to take pictures of all the rocks I kicked and I would started a Twitter feed with a hash tag of "ShitJaimeKicks". It never materialized but made light of my frustration. At this point I needed to laugh -at me- and I needed everyone else to follow suit. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nx04k2i7ymk/Un-x-l0uHNI/AAAAAAAAECI/TGdo9FxyRR8/s1600/Heading+down+Day+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="264" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nx04k2i7ymk/Un-x-l0uHNI/AAAAAAAAECI/TGdo9FxyRR8/s400/Heading+down+Day+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost there but running out of steam</td></tr>
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From the highest of highs to a new low, I arrived into Marshall pass around 4:45 PM. I had averaged about 3.75 MPH and just like I wanted, surprised my crew as they were just beginning to get set up. I needed to sit and relax but in my head it was "tick-tock-tick-tock". I told my crew I wanted to be in and out -15 minutes max- so that I could get to Hwy 50 by 9PM. If I could do that then I would make a decision to push another 5-10 myles to get ahead of schedule. My overall schedule was such that I would finish in 7 days 21 hours and break the record by 15 hrs but I wasn't even half way there so I couldn't think about the end result just yet. <br />
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True to my word, my crew had fed me a cheese quesadilla, Ramon noodles, a can of Coke, and refilled my pack in less than 15 minutes. It was great having my parents there, not to add more people attending to me, but they served as a crew to the crew. Like I said before, this was a well oiled machine and practically anything I asked for they had. Rick Hessek would stop at Marshall Pass to get back to work but Matt continued on for the next 14+ myles to Hwy 50. This next section (15) is one of the prettiest sections as we intersect the Monarch Crest loop (famous biking section). We climbed up to 12,000 ft along the Continental Divide and then shot down Fooses Creek, which is a small alcove with lots of lush green undergrowth. Very pleasant and calming environment.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ig7dhc5xw_0/UoD11BuNLGI/AAAAAAAAEFg/EuOvCFEg9yA/s1600/struggling+Day+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ig7dhc5xw_0/UoD11BuNLGI/AAAAAAAAEFg/EuOvCFEg9yA/s400/struggling+Day+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The energy has left me - CDT/CT above Marshall's Pass</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At the Fooses creek intersection is where the new West CT segments follow the CDT for the next 80+ myles to Winfield. The signs are old and not well managed at this point so you have to be paying attention to the maps or know to make that hard right turn. Matt and I took a little break as I chomped down a Snickers bar and took nips at my EFS flask. Now I was ready to bolt down the steepest section of the CT -short- but really steep. We still had decent light dropping into tree line so we could see all the beauty with the lush green undergrowth. Having said that, the lushness and water attracts animals. Sure enough we're in the thick of the trees and hear a non-hooved animal break through some bushes and quickly bound up a hillside. We didn't get to see exactly what it was but by my description with the last bear encounter we're pretty sure it was a bear. It's interesting that all these years the only bear encounters I have heard about were attacks so I was sure my first encounter would be the same. I am here to tell you that bears are more afraid of humans than we are of them. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-loFFKmh6zEU/UoD1zarveuI/AAAAAAAAEE4/n_CAaXxv7q0/s1600/Signage+Day+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-loFFKmh6zEU/UoD1zarveuI/AAAAAAAAEE4/n_CAaXxv7q0/s400/Signage+Day+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Signage for that right turn</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DWcjIPYxNmg/UoD1zTwq85I/AAAAAAAAEE8/rK0UKHIBqtU/s1600/Fooses+Creek+Day+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DWcjIPYxNmg/UoD1zTwq85I/AAAAAAAAEE8/rK0UKHIBqtU/s400/Fooses+Creek+Day+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All down to Hwy 50 from here</td></tr>
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That little adrenaline jolt, coupled with the fading light, had me running down faster than I had been. In addition, the twilight hours always gave me a boost mentally that translated into physical for at least an hour. I had been turning on my light around 8:30 PM every night so I was constantly checking my watch while trying not to stumble on the trail. Twisting and turning and -on and on- I was sure we could make it to the Fooses Creek TH before dark. We crossed a very nice bridge which I mistook as the final time we would cross Fooses and the TH was no more than 1/4 mile away... Once again my mind had me closer than what we actually were. I could tell Matt was getting antsy as well, maybe because of my comments of "<i>we are almost there</i>..." I felt a little more at ease when I knew Matt was feeling the same way I was on most nights so I became more vocal with my frustrations to Matt. Although it didn't solve the problem of getting there any quicker, it released pent up tension I was carrying. It felt good to vent and accept the fact that every night was going to be the same. Embrace the night.<br />
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Finally at the TH and now I'm sure it's no more than 3 myles to Hwy 50. It's just after 9 PM and I can't wait to be done. The thought of going another 10 myles after Hwy 50 was not an option anymore. Although I was happy about another successful day on schedule, I began to worry about the days ahead. By the time we met Rick in the truck just short of Hwy 50, I was exhausted both mentally and physically. I tried to keep my thoughts in the moment rather than look ahead and when I did I was much happier: "<i>I'm half way home.... No mechanical breakdowns... The iRunfar and First Endurance crews are coming out tomorrow..." </i><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Mhlp0Juiko/UoD44o00PxI/AAAAAAAAEGk/DtImXMc7BD4/s1600/Zombie+like+state+Day+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Mhlp0Juiko/UoD44o00PxI/AAAAAAAAEGk/DtImXMc7BD4/s400/Zombie+like+state+Day+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zombie like state at Hwy 50 - photo by iRunfar</td></tr>
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<i><br /></i>
Matt had gone the distance with me today. I couldn't have been more proud of him. He not only had to do his best to motivate me during those final hours but make also sure I was eating and drinking. All the while filming, take pictures and carrying all the camera gear for 50 myles. We had a mini celebration with a side hug as we rounded the corner and could see the lights from the crew cars. I remember getting to the truck and immediately being surrounded by people I couldn't see, only headlamps. I hugged my wife, stopped my SPOT and was immediately handed a beer from Byron Powell. A EddyLine Crank Yanker IPA in which he marked up with "Fast" in front of "EddyLine". My parents and Rob and Sylvia Kunz were also there so I did my best to greet and thank everyone but I know what I was saying was not exactly making sense. Then I was whisked away to the campground a few myles down the road. I was really confused as to where we going and made a comment to Rick "<i>aren't we going the wrong way</i>?" to which he replied "<i>Don't worry about it, we've got a spot at an RV park with a hot shower</i>". I knew full well my crew was taking care of me but for the fact that I was now second guessing that notion caused me great concern. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8Bap-hCHRA/UoD54xmxxpI/AAAAAAAAEGs/j30wzayjkV0/s1600/crank+yanker+day+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8Bap-hCHRA/UoD54xmxxpI/AAAAAAAAEGs/j30wzayjkV0/s400/crank+yanker+day+4.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happiness</td></tr>
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I was now in the RV, all showered up, ate some sort of salad dish, and then downed my Crank Yanker IPA all by 10 PM. I had gone 232 myles in 3 days 16 hours and by the time I would start in the morning I was moving into Day 5*. Motivated! Mentally I was feeling better and the fact that I could lay down for 3+ hours was going to be the difference tomorrow. "<i>Stay in the moment and be positive... Stay in the mo..."</i> I kept repeating to myself as I passed out.<br />
<br />
<b>Myles: 49.9 (232.1)</b><br />
<b>Time: 15h 33m (69h 19m)</b><br />
<b>Elevation: 8826 (43,888)</b><br />
<b>Myles to go: 253.7</b><br />
<b>(totals)</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>*</b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Time reporting can be confusing. My anniversary time for one day is 5 AM so even though I report 3 days 16 hours getting into Hwy 50, it's actually day 4 on the trail up until 4:59 AM. When I start again in the morning, say if it's 6:00 AM then my exact time for reporting will be 4 days 1 hour, however, day 5 on the trail </span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-73592061062678692342013-10-19T10:30:00.000-06:002013-10-20T16:20:27.749-06:00Colorado Trail Day 3 - Spring Crk to Hwy 114<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I must have passed out because the first time I looked at the clock it was 2 AM.</div>
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Two hours of solid sleep was good. Then began the tossing and turning for the next two hours thinking about the day ahead. So again I waited -wide awake- for my alarm to go off at 4 AM. Better than the night before so I'll take it. I stood up out of bed with no soreness and surprisingly feeling good. I slipped into my clothes (which had been laid out next to my fully reloaded pack), applied the body glide, and started heating up water for my tea. As I wait for my water to boil and the rest of the troops began to move about, the only thoughts that enter my mind are "<i>how fortunate I am to have such a supportive wife and crew." </i>The night before my wife had taken care of everything I needed so all I had to do was roll out of bed and start moving on the trail.<br />
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As became the routine during breakfast, I'd get the download of the events from the day before. I knew from the planning phases that yesterday would be logistically a challenge. Getting from one side of the San Juan's to the other is not convenient; it's a minimum of 3 hrs from Molas pass to Spring Crk. In addition, Rick had to drive the ATV up and down Carson Saddle road twice to shuttle Rick Hessek and Matt Trappe. In the process of all this, Rick nearly rolled the RV and then drove up and down Carson Saddle road at a breakneck pace. So I'm told.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wkdixHlC5-4/UmKj4yOM0GI/AAAAAAAAD9E/2ods9SdkBPM/s1600/Mobius.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wkdixHlC5-4/UmKj4yOM0GI/AAAAAAAAD9E/2ods9SdkBPM/s400/Mobius.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast Burritos!</td></tr>
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All I had to do was to get from point A to point B. As mentioned in the previous paragraph, the real work was done by my crew: driving winding roads to get to predefined checkpoints, shuttling cars for pacers, and restocking (from my perspective) the never ending supply of breakfast burritos. Naively thinking, they magically appeared at every checkpoint and created a stress-free environment while I sauntered through.... with a hot breakfast burrito in hand, nonetheless. Just like a pregnant women's cravings, I wanted breakfast burritos. But because there's only one Mobius cafe in Silverton, Nicole and Rick started making homemade eggs, crispy bacon, and cheese burritos around the clock. THIS was a well oiled machine at work.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7EKe5wqqDvc/UmKgizHkhHI/AAAAAAAAD8s/METyjTC9DUQ/s1600/Sunrise+2+Snow+Mesa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7EKe5wqqDvc/UmKgizHkhHI/AAAAAAAAD8s/METyjTC9DUQ/s400/Sunrise+2+Snow+Mesa.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunrise on Snow Mesa</td></tr>
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Brandon and I hit the trail at 5:59 AM and was welcomed back with a stiff little climb up to Snow Mesa. Brandon had gone the distance yesterday and I got a sense early he was experiencing the same hyper-aware/chatty state that I'd been accustomed to. We chatted the next two myles up to the wide open Snow Mesa. Last time I had gone through here it was nearly midnight and seemed to go on forever. Now that I could see it in daylight, I can tell you it's a beautiful, expansive mesa with <i>views</i> that go on forever. The mesa was generally flat, coupled with the morning buzz, we were running pretty good for nearly 4 myles. So many memories of this section from the last time. It was the day when Paul Dewitt and I got lost for 3 hours to extend our day to nearly 20 hrs. And then ran into a <i>lonely </i>sheep herder as the sun was setting, who'd been out there for the better part of 3 months. He approached us with his huge rifle and 10 mile stare. After he <i>let </i>us pass through his sheep herd, we mysteriously started talking about Brokeback Mountain. Creepy. As Brandon and I passed a sheep herder -almost in the same exact area- with two very protective dogs in the distance, I began to tell him the story about Paul and I. He laughed as I finished the story and then proceeded to check over his shoulder every so often...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1h04lZb1RlU/UmKgjjbh4xI/AAAAAAAAD8w/KIIV6T2XhZ8/s1600/Sunrise+Snow+Mesa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1h04lZb1RlU/UmKgjjbh4xI/AAAAAAAAD8w/KIIV6T2XhZ8/s400/Sunrise+Snow+Mesa.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some running on Snow Mesa</td></tr>
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Now that the -flat- Snow Mesa was behind us, we start a jagged up and down journey for the next 7 myles to San Luis Pass. Except for the initial climb out of Spring Crk, this entire segment (21) is around 12,000 ft., which makes for slower than expected travel. When I predicted my time to each checkpoint it was done on a very rudimentary elevation profile. Let's just say it wasn't as smooth as the picture looked. We can see San Luis Peak (14,014 ft.) in the distance and in between are several drainage's that will occupy us for next couple of hours. The day started off as being a blue bird day but as we got closer to San Luis Peak, the clouds gathered rather rapidly. Brandon had contemplated summiting San Luis to do a bit of peak bagging, but by the time we got to the pass it was thunder and lightning so he smiled and quietly shook his head. The peak is literally one mile off the Colorado Trail, which makes this segment more popular than most in the La Garita wilderness.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T029AYRe9Q8/UmKgf8yU1sI/AAAAAAAAD8E/JnQP6KPCi-k/s1600/Day+3+climbing+Snow+Mesa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T029AYRe9Q8/UmKgf8yU1sI/AAAAAAAAD8E/JnQP6KPCi-k/s400/Day+3+climbing+Snow+Mesa.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The flat stuff is behind us now</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nk6NpsilY3k/UmKgimDZ2SI/AAAAAAAAD8o/UXyqddSXQD0/s1600/Day+3+up+high+Snow+mesa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nk6NpsilY3k/UmKgimDZ2SI/AAAAAAAAD8o/UXyqddSXQD0/s400/Day+3+up+high+Snow+mesa.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The views go on forever up here</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-08pSdBpGxpI/UmKgii06CqI/AAAAAAAAD8k/OdSZrnHSqog/s1600/Day+3+into+gully.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-08pSdBpGxpI/UmKgii06CqI/AAAAAAAAD8k/OdSZrnHSqog/s400/Day+3+into+gully.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ups and downs ahead</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7F1-uF2fNaQ/UmKghq7oKqI/AAAAAAAAD8Y/wdvzLOpdVv8/s1600/Day+3+looking+at+San+Luis+peak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7F1-uF2fNaQ/UmKghq7oKqI/AAAAAAAAD8Y/wdvzLOpdVv8/s400/Day+3+looking+at+San+Luis+peak.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching the saddle below San Luis Peak</td></tr>
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Sure enough, as soon as we put on our rain gear it decided to stop. Off and on again all the way down to Eddiesville TH. It was nearly 1 PM, and by my judgement, we should be rounding a corner to see a confluence of canyons where Eddiesville TH sits. The descent down from the saddle near San Luis Peak is a long one. Much longer than I thought. The proverbial <i>corner</i> really wasn't a corner at all, it was just a mild curve that made me more frustrated and eager to get to Eddiesville. I was frustrated because I was late again. This time by 1 hour. It was 2:45 PM when we finally arrived at Eddiesville TH with the rain (again). <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GySVh9Zk-CI/UmKghHOIo-I/AAAAAAAAD8Q/EJP6t9aFpVE/s1600/Day+3+down+to+Eddiesville.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GySVh9Zk-CI/UmKghHOIo-I/AAAAAAAAD8Q/EJP6t9aFpVE/s400/Day+3+down+to+Eddiesville.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The long valley ahead to Eddiesville. See the "corner"?</td></tr>
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Eddiesville TH marks the end of Brandon's 80.8 mile journey with me... for now. Rick Hessek will now take me to Hwy 114. But before we leave, my father-in-law and wife want to sit me down and discuss cutting the day short. They can see that 10 mile stare in my eyes and with my constant late arrivals, they are concerned that I can't keep to the schedule. They have consulted with two smart guys, Brian Fisher and Nick Pedatella, to crunch the numbers. The rationale is that if I cut off 8 myles today to end before dark then I could recharge the battery and start before 5 AM (anniversary time to mark a day) to bank those 8 myles on a fresh-er mind and body. I was not happy with that decision because I was trying to get ahead of schedule to cut into the last two, 70+ mile days. This would only make those last two days longer. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2Jc8Dd1Xuk0/UmKqVOreFzI/AAAAAAAAD-w/dJSBsmHxRAg/s1600/The+conversation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2Jc8Dd1Xuk0/UmKqVOreFzI/AAAAAAAAD-w/dJSBsmHxRAg/s400/The+conversation.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The conversation*</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j_MqcC4Rzx0/UmKgfcy1bjI/AAAAAAAAD78/nYk6Wf2AEq0/s1600/Day+3+Eddiesville+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j_MqcC4Rzx0/UmKgfcy1bjI/AAAAAAAAD78/nYk6Wf2AEq0/s400/Day+3+Eddiesville+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The crew at Eddiesville TH</td></tr>
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I knew this record was tight but now I was living how tight it really was. As I left Eddiesville TH with Rick H, I thought about what Rick R and my wife were telling me. They were looking out for my best interest to break the record and didn't want me to falling off that razors edge. The segment to Saguache Park Road was generally downhill so I knew my speed would pick up, but it didn't, or at least it didn't feel like it. As became a pattern, I would leave a checkpoint with a belly full of food and then succumb to the food coma for the next 2 hours. I felt like I was dragging ass, to say the least. Good thing I had Rick H because he's always good with conversation to keep my spirits high. He's been running awhile which translates into many running related stories. "<i>One time I found a dead body</i>...." Oh boy, that's a freaky story. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lmIfGudyPYE/UmKgfgPhHVI/AAAAAAAAD8A/dwC0V1vYN68/s1600/Day+3+Eddiesville+rick+box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lmIfGudyPYE/UmKgfgPhHVI/AAAAAAAAD8A/dwC0V1vYN68/s400/Day+3+Eddiesville+rick+box.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Rick Hessek (box) standing next to Rick Robinson<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d3rxSyeWAxg/UmKqRaP1bDI/AAAAAAAAD-g/oUB_4AGWRBI/s1600/Day+3+view+from+up+high.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d3rxSyeWAxg/UmKqRaP1bDI/AAAAAAAAD-g/oUB_4AGWRBI/s400/Day+3+view+from+up+high.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The FS road leading into Saguache Park road*</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N9EBCNuiIOA/UmKp8EUXgSI/AAAAAAAAD9Q/mOO60ODbfWQ/s1600/Day+3+Hessek+and+I+cresting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N9EBCNuiIOA/UmKp8EUXgSI/AAAAAAAAD9Q/mOO60ODbfWQ/s400/Day+3+Hessek+and+I+cresting.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Rick and I getting close to Saguache Park Road*</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">The food coma started to lift its grip and the territory became familiar. Or did it? Saguache Park Road is where Paul and I did a 6 mile loop and came back to the same point 3 hours later. I described it in detail to Rick "<i>You see FS road 787-1A and FS road 787-1D intersect here but there's no CT blaze</i>..." I'm sure Rick was bored but retelling the story gave me a charge due to the lack of CT blazes throughout the myriad of roads. I'm sure blazes have been put up throughout the years but because it's a popular 4WD road, they probably get taken down quite a bit. Initially I predicted this 13.7 mile segment would only take us 3 hrs. By the time we saw Nicole and Matt on the ATV driving towards us, it had been 3.5 hrs and only a tiny bit more before Saguache road. For me, this was a moral victory. This was to be my evidence to present to the crew to let me continue onto Hwy 114. I could still move when the terrain was easier.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VyWG9nXHnX4/UmKp8VVFO2I/AAAAAAAAD9g/7ybjhDm2kR4/s1600/Day+3+-+me+and+Livvy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VyWG9nXHnX4/UmKp8VVFO2I/AAAAAAAAD9g/7ybjhDm2kR4/s400/Day+3+-+me+and+Livvy.jpg" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Livvy greeting me*</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ip6PIfS8-3M/UmKqR4o60EI/AAAAAAAAD-s/aAWVbyj108w/s1600/Day+3+opening+a+coke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q8Vpo1A7Elc/UmKqDwyVR4I/AAAAAAAAD9w/_H87XzMR87A/s1600/Day+3+close+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q8Vpo1A7Elc/UmKqDwyVR4I/AAAAAAAAD9w/_H87XzMR87A/s400/Day+3+close+up.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost ready for the night*</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The plethora of supplies at the checkpoints*</td></tr>
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I had eaten my breakfast burrito, an Ensure, downed two cans of Coke and put my warmer clothes on before 6:45 PM. Only one segment (18) and 13.8 myles to Hwy 114. The crew would check on me again 8 myles short of Hwy 114. In my mind, if I could get there before dark then I would go all the way to Hwy 114. Along the way we ran into another thru hiker going to Denver. He'd gotten lost on the same myriad of roads missing a crucial turn off of Sagauche road that took him all they way to Hwy 114 - the short way. He was alone and it was apparent he wanted to chat a while. At the same time it was "tick-tock tick-tock" in my mind. Through 3 days I had seen no less than a dozen thru hikers. And you can tell a thru hiker from a one or two day hiker... they just have that look. Not all of them wanted to talk, and most of the time, it was just a look we gave each other. Whether we knew each others story or not, it was a look of respect.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q1KP_ztP9e4/UmKqKkhOMLI/AAAAAAAAD-M/TSVczgRWwYY/s1600/Day+3+going+into+Saguache+road.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q1KP_ztP9e4/UmKqKkhOMLI/AAAAAAAAD-M/TSVczgRWwYY/s400/Day+3+going+into+Saguache+road.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The road ahead to Hwy 114*</td></tr>
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Right before sunrise and sunset were my favorite times of the day. The energy level seemed to soar during those times and the peacefulness in the wilderness just can't be beat. Rick H and I rounded a corner and out of the trees appeared Cochetopa Pass Road - 8:35 PM and still a little bit of light left. Nearly 3.9 MPH for that last section. The RV was pulled off onto a lush grassy area and my parents were just pulling in from Utah. I didn't ask but I sensed my crew wanted to pull the plug for the day. Like I said, I didn't ask... just told them I wanted to be quick with the pit stop so I can get done before 11 PM. I still don't know if they intended on me stopping for the night or were just prepared if I physically couldn't go anymore. Either way, I drank another Ensure, ate some cookies, restocked my pack with my Peter Rabbit packets and I was on my way. On the way out, my Mom and crew walked with me up the road. My parents being there gave me a much needed boost (and a sense of relief) to get me through the last section of the day. <br />
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Rick H and I turned our lights on shortly after leaving the crew. For the next few myles we'd be traveling on an old logging road, which had a very gentle grade that made for good running. I say running but it was more of a shuffle at this point. It was dark the last time I had been through this section so I really don't know (or remember) what lay ahead to Hwy 114. But as I mentioned before, when it gets dark, the trail just keeps going. We crested a 500ft climb and started a long switch back descent on the logging road. Rick kept checking the guide book for clues as to how far we had to go. I could tell he was getting antsy to finish the day as well. Finally we crossed a stream, which Rick identified in the guide book as two myles to go. Once by the stream, it got cold quick. It was the first time I had to put every ounce of clothing on to keep warm. Following the stream for a bit, we rounded a corner and saw the occasional car go past on Hwy 114. It was 10:39 PM when we pulled into the parking lot, trekking the last 7.2 myles in 2 hours. I was happy because we maintained a 3.5+ mph avg. for the last 14 myles but it had come with a price. I was tired and my thoughts became disjointed to my mouth. <br />
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<b>Myles: 55 (182.2)</b><br />
<b>Time: 16h 40m (53h 46m)</b><br />
<b>Elevation: 8611 (35,062)</b><br />
<b>Myles to go: 303.6</b><br />
<b>(totals)</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>*</b>These photos are taken by a professional photographer, Matt Trappe. Please be respectful and go to <a href="http://www.trappephoto.com/">his website</a> to purchase. Other photos are taken by Brandon Stapanowich, please send a note to me if you reuse his photos.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-25093318207202101882013-10-08T19:24:00.000-06:002013-10-18T11:58:33.036-06:00Colorado Trail Day 2 - Molas Pass to Spring Crk PassIt's never a good sign when you're waiting for the alarm to go off at 4 AM.<br />
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I didn't get settled into my bed until 1:45 AM. And just like a 100 mile race, the body was giving off way too much heat and the adrenaline still pumping. Needless to say, I tossed and turned for two hours. Out of bed, I'm dressed in no time at all and quickly eating breakfast. As I sat and ate my Muesli and drank my tea, my 5 AM anniversary time to mark a day had come and gone. I was now one plus day into my adventure and 412 myles to go. <br />
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At 6:11 AM I finally set off with Brandon Stapanowich down to the Animas river - a 4 mile, 2200 ft drop. As would become a theme early in the morning, my body was spry and my mind was sharp. A hyper-aware/chatty state. Brandon and I weren't going fast but we ran all the way to the river where we had to stop to shed some clothes and eat some food. For me, SnackWell creme cookies and my standard concoction of EFS liquid shot diluted in water. Now starts the toughest part of the day - a 9 mile, 4000 ft climb to heaven - the heart of the mighty San Juan's.<br />
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My morning buzz started to wear off just an hour into the climb when total malaise took over my body. Brandon is a Physical Therapist by trade, which I didn't know until I started to shed some concern about a pain in my right shin. I had severe shin splints last trip on the CT and for it to be happening this early was a real concern. Brandon gave me some solid advice that would help save my shins for the majority of the trip, "<i>most likely you're heel striking as you go down hill. The tendons and muscles on the front of your foot/shin have to contract and stretch way too much, which becomes an over-use injury. Lean forward and try to strike mid-foot going down hill to reduce the stretching motion". </i>It worked. I concentrated on my foot strike on most down hills and eventually stopped thinking about the <i>phantom</i> pain in my shins.<br />
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Finally at the top of the world where the views go on forever. My stomach was unsettled, my energy was low, and the pace slowed quite a bit. Brandon got his music out and played it for all the marmots to hear, something to take my mind off the monotony. The first song was a rap entitled "Walk It Out". Look it up and you'll laugh too. Pretty soon we were singing along... pretty easy when there's only 3 words in the song. Exactly what I needed. We finally pulled into Stoney Pass around 12:45 PM, almost two hours late. I felt uneasy for being behind schedule but needed the rest so we took about 20 minutes to eat and refill water bottles. <br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tGH1WAr9NV0/UlSoZIzuCUI/AAAAAAAAD6w/bCFKM0rkp3g/s1600/Day+2+me+and+bstap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tGH1WAr9NV0/UlSoZIzuCUI/AAAAAAAAD6w/bCFKM0rkp3g/s400/Day+2+me+and+bstap.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Brandon and I on top of the world</td></tr>
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I started pointed out the trail for Hardrock to Brandon, which told me mentally I was coming back. 20 minutes does wonders for the soul. We are now headed towards Maggie's Gulch and the memories from Hardrock, a mere 5 weeks ago, flooded my mind. I'll admit, I was getting a little emotional. Maybe because the terrain was very familiar? Maybe because I'm feeling better and to know I can dig out of a hole? Maybe because I'm approaching 100 myles on the journey and the trail is starting to strip me down? Probably a combination of all of them. I've been here before both mentally and physically and know I've got to keep things in check. Shortly after we bisected the Hardrock trail we ran into Jason Halladay, Jeff, and Eric who had left Spring Crk early that morning. Nice to see some familiar faces out there and stop to chat a bit. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rBqbTAJnpRw/UlSoOjOL8jI/AAAAAAAAD6E/uC0PRqxToLc/s1600/1175037_10201721541739594_14352129_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rBqbTAJnpRw/UlSoOjOL8jI/AAAAAAAAD6E/uC0PRqxToLc/s400/1175037_10201721541739594_14352129_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sign made by Jason, et. al. at Spring Crk, Brandon and I above Maggie's</td></tr>
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Up and down ridges, in and out of drainage's, and the ebb and flow of energy is the theme for the day. It's slow progress, much slower than I anticipated, but this terrain is unforgiving and above 12,000 ft. it takes a toll. Timing-wise, we are about 3 hrs behind schedule with 8 myles till we reach Carson Saddle. I start to calculate in my head "<i>at 3 MPH that's still another 3 hours away... shit!" </i> Brandon was great the entire time: he asked questions where I only had to answer yes or no, he kept the mood light, and he put things in perspective when it seemed like we would never get there. Finally we descend into the top of Cataract Gulch where we intersect the Hardrock course once again. My energy is renewed -again- because I know we're getting close - 2 hrs tops. Once we climb out of Cataract Gulch our pace quickens and then the Carson Saddle road appears. We were both running low on water and food but now we can smell the burritos from Mobius cafe. Matt Trappe, Rick Hessek, and my father in law are all eagerly waiting for us. We are 3 and 1/2 hours behind schedule but still get to Carson saddle by 6 PM. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TfV8-vEu5mc/UlSoXje4H-I/AAAAAAAAD6U/1aatR3tFQD0/s1600/Carson+saddle+resting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TfV8-vEu5mc/UlSoXje4H-I/AAAAAAAAD6U/1aatR3tFQD0/s400/Carson+saddle+resting.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Much needed rest at Carson Saddle</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qXkUHY3pvjY/UlSoYkQuHfI/AAAAAAAAD6c/ZEgTqaRJTQI/s1600/Day+2+carson+saddle+burrito.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qXkUHY3pvjY/UlSoYkQuHfI/AAAAAAAAD6c/ZEgTqaRJTQI/s400/Day+2+carson+saddle+burrito.jpg" title="" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scarfing down a Mobius Cafe burrito at Carson Saddle - Thanks Megan!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nshj4_LdsTo/UlSoYy_StEI/AAAAAAAAD6s/IMRun2dGx3M/s1600/Day+2+grimmace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nshj4_LdsTo/UlSoYy_StEI/AAAAAAAAD6s/IMRun2dGx3M/s400/Day+2+grimmace.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">Making our way out of Carson Saddle</td></tr>
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After a 45 minute break, Rick, Matt, Brandon, and myself start the 17 remaining myles of the day. What lay ahead was probably the most spectacular scenery of the trail; high alpine tundra, sun was setting through some clouds, air was still, and the temps were in the low 50s. Amazing. We finally have to stop, just short of the Yurt (San Juan Solstice aid station), to put on our lights. Rick had packed a can of Coke, which I gladly sucked down in 2 seconds. Coke became my "go to" mojo juice. And as much as I hate to admit it, a Snickers bar to boot. I kept thinking "<i>man! Those are good but I can hear me getting fat..." </i>To balance things out I ate a packet of my fruits and veggies - <a href="http://www.peterrabbitorganics.com/">Peter Rabbit Organics</a>. Energy is now up and we start making bets to see if we can make it to Spring Creek before the first finisher of Leadville 100.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e_cMNcZoUhs/UlSoYQrbgnI/AAAAAAAAD6Y/vrkPr4rw9c4/s1600/Day+2+San+Juans+viewing+lake+crystobal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e_cMNcZoUhs/UlSoYQrbgnI/AAAAAAAAD6Y/vrkPr4rw9c4/s400/Day+2+San+Juans+viewing+lake+crystobal.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake San Cristobal in the distance</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4CISJH72IXw/UlSoaKCAEgI/AAAAAAAAD7U/Rcz-yEvzrdA/s1600/Day+2+side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4CISJH72IXw/UlSoaKCAEgI/AAAAAAAAD7U/Rcz-yEvzrdA/s400/Day+2+side.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sun is setting fast</td></tr>
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Even though we were on familiar ground, the horizon was gone in the darkness and the trail -once again- went on forever. The trail virtually disappeared among a sea of rocks, which caused us to keep looking up to find the CT blazes. Stumbling over rocks after 16 hrs on my feet became very frustrating... quietly under my breath I was repeating expletives "<i>eff this and eff that and where the eff is the road</i>..."* Matt got some cell reception and found out that Ian Sharman had won Leadville in a blazing time with Nick Clark hot on his tail. Happy for them because they were done but my day would keep going for another hour and 45 minutes. We finally hit the dirt road which told us that we still had another 3 myles. Ugh! We rounded a corner and saw the lights of the RV. 11:41 PM - 53.3 myles in 17 and 1/2 hours. <br />
<br />
Slow and go but I was through the San Juan's after two days on the trail. Right on schedule. Nicole had cooked up some steak and potatoes and we all went silent as we gorged ourselves. Brandon would go again with me in the morning to Eddiesville. My goal was to start everyday at 5 AM but I made the call to start an hour late in the morning. I was now running the razors edge and I didn't want to fall off.<br />
<br />
<b>Myles: 53.3 (127.2) </b><br />
<b>Time: 17h 31m (37h 6m) </b><br />
<b>Elevation gain: 10,843 (26,451) </b><br />
<b>Myles to go: 358.6</b><br />
<b>(totals)</b><br />
<br />
*<span style="font-size: x-small;">I don't want to come across as being negative or always seem like I'm complaining, I'm just explaining what was going through my head every step of the way. I certainly didn't let this be known to those who were helping me but if you've ever run an ultra then you know what I'm talking about. Constantly fighting off the demons and try to remain focused on the task at hand. I struggled almost every day when the sun went down primarily because I couldn't see where I was going and the end always seemed closer in my mind. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-43525694966681538792013-09-07T12:53:00.000-06:002013-10-18T11:58:58.781-06:00Colorado Trail Day 1 - Jxn Creek to Molas Pass"I am completely destroyed". Those are the first enervated words I spoke as I finished the Colorado Trail on Saturday afternoon. 9 days later I attempted my first run, still "completely destroyed". Sound sleep is also hard to come by. I usually end up dreaming about a particular day on the CT in a hurry to get somewhere. Needless to say I'm exhausted when I wake up. For the past two weeks, when I'm not napping, I spend my days pacing as if I'm still fast hiking with my mind racing all the while. And yet it still takes every bit of strength to get out of the chair to make the journey into the kitchen. <br />
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<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; width: 170pt;" width="170"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Segment</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; width: 66pt;" width="66"><span style="font-size: x-small;">mileage</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; width: 98pt;" width="98"><span style="font-size: x-small;">start/finish time</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; width: 77pt;" width="77"><span style="font-size: x-small;">time on feet</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; width: 63pt;" width="63"><span style="font-size: x-small;">MPH</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; width: 94pt;" width="94"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Elevation gain</span></td>
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<td class="xl64" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Day 1</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Jxn Creek to Molas
Pass</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">73.9</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">5:00 A to 12:35 A</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">19h 35m</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">3.77</span></td>
<td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">15,608</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl64" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Day 2</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Molas Pass to Spring
Creek Pass</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">53.3</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">6:11 A to 11:41 P</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">17h 31m</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">3.05</span></td>
<td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">10,843</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl64" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Day 3</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Spring Creek Pass to
Hwy 114</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">55</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">5:59 A to 10:39 P</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">16h 40m</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">3.3</span></td>
<td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">8,611</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl64" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Day 4</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hwy 114 to US Hwy 50</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">49.9</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">5:48 A to 9:21 P</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">15h 33m</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">3.21</span></td>
<td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">8,826</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl64" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Day 5</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">US Hwy 50 to N.
Cottonwood crk</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">43.2</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">5:40 A to 7:40 P</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">14h 0m</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">3.09</span></td>
<td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">8,874</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl64" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Day 6</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">N. Cottonwood crk to
Timberline Lake</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">53.6</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">4:45 A to 9:45 P</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">17h 0m</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">3.15</span></td>
<td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">11,082</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl64" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Day 7</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Timberline Lake to
Gold Hill</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">51.8</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">3:55 A to 9:45 P</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">17h 50m</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">2.9</span></td>
<td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">9,867</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl64" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Day 8</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Gold Hill to Waterton
Canyon</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">105.1</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">2:15 A to 12:40 P</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">34h 25m</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">3.05</span></td>
<td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">15,184</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl64" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>TOTAL</b></span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>485.8</b></span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>8d 7h 40m 17s</b></span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>152h 34m</b></span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>3.18</b></span></td>
<td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>88,895</b></span></td>
</tr>
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I accomplished my goal of setting the new Fastest Known Time on the Colorado trail with a time of 8 days, 7 hours, 40 minutes and 17 seconds, beating the old record set by Paul Pomeroy by 4 hours 37 minutes. From the very beginning I wanted to define my limits and give this adventure every ounce of my being. There is no question in my mind I have defined my limits. I did not accomplish this alone, this was a complete team effort with a total 27 people helping out along the way: Nicole Jaime. Rick Robinson. Alverna Jaime. Julian Jaime. Rick Hessek. Brendan Trimboli. Harsha Nagaraj. Brandon Stapanowich. Rob Kunz. Sylvia Kunz. Byron Powell. Meghan Hicks. Rae Jean Robinson. Matt Trappe. Molly Trappe. Gavin McKenzie. Mike Ambrose. Todd Ganglehoff. Alyssa Wildeboer. Travis Wildeboer. Brian Fisher. Kathy Darnold. Dick (Kathy's brother). <span style="text-align: center;">Johnny Darnold. Beth Blankenship. Rodney Blankenship. Leah Fein. I thank each and everyone one for their help along the way! Here is our journey:</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-align: center;">Since I don't have very many photos,</span> <a href="http://www.trappephoto.com/scott-jaimes-colorado-trail-fkt-images/">go here</a> for some professional photos.<br />
<br />
My wife and I, alongside <a href="http://www.trappephoto.com/">Matt Trappe</a>, made the journey to Durango on Wednesday, August 14th to get settled in and finish up any last minute shopping. We joined up with Brendan Trimboli, Ian Sharman, and others at Carvers brewery on Wednesday night for some grub and a few brews. The talk was more about the Grand Slam and, in particular, the Leadville 100. Which was fine by me because it got my mind off the journey ahead. Weather inevitably comes up in these conversations and according to the weather people, I had timed my trip just right. The monsoonal moisture had subsided and looked as though I was going to have the best weather possible, if not a little hot leaving Durango. Thursday we met up with Rick, my father in law and crew chief, who had driven the RV over from Utah. We settled into a camp site at Junction Creek and it was just like getting ready for a 100 mile race.... second guessing all my prep and questioning if I had everything. Perfect!<br />
<br />
<b>Day 1</b><br />
Up at 3 AM and I hardly slept a wink. My wife, Rick, and Matt all up and just as excited as I was... no one needed to say anything, it was in the air. A lot of hard work and sleepless nights lay ahead and we were looking forward to it. I drank my Yerba Mate and ate my Muesli (which would become my standard breakfast over the next week) and it was time to go. 4:45 AM we are at the South terminus of the Colorado Trail along with a hearty bunch of friends to see me off; The Darnolds, Rodney and Beth, Leah Fein, Brendan Trimboli, and my crew. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pzpKB4ApVXY/Uittjw2gWBI/AAAAAAAAD4E/RLZT_IOSyr4/s1600/1st+morning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pzpKB4ApVXY/Uittjw2gWBI/AAAAAAAAD4E/RLZT_IOSyr4/s320/1st+morning.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to go!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
5 AM on the dot and we were off. Brendan Trimboli and Leah Fein accompanied me up to Gudy's Rest and it was non stop chatter. We parted ways at Gudy's and for the first time I was alone with my thoughts. Alone and excited till I rounded a corner and spooked a bear on the trail! Holy shit! It really didn't sink in until about 15 minutes after the encounter. That was a freaking bear! The bear was more afraid of me than I was of it. It bolted up the side of the hill and out of sight quickly. First encounter with a bear in the wild.<br />
<br />
I kept a constant eye on my watch, and in particular, the MPHs. I became obsessive with it and realized it was helping me dig a hole so I ditched the Garmin after the first day. 4 MPH seems slow in running terms but in these multi-day adventures, it's quite fast. This day was crucial not to push too hard but also try to get done as quickly as possible - a risky game. I was told by many that 74 myles was too much for the first day but I also knew if I wanted a shot at the record I had to do something that has never been done. For me, this was getting ahead while I was fresh and then maintaining a relentless forward motion (RFM) for the next 7 days. In addition, if you look at the logistics going from West to East, you have to try and get across the San Juan's in one push.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bpsutb2WXjQ/UittlwF1w-I/AAAAAAAAD4Y/BsnsDo8_j3I/s1600/To+Kennebec.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bpsutb2WXjQ/UittlwF1w-I/AAAAAAAAD4Y/BsnsDo8_j3I/s400/To+Kennebec.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On our way to Kennebec pass and beyond</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fWCQ32uj9_w/UjOg7GfK-wI/AAAAAAAAD5Y/dX0eU4SOO84/s1600/my+favorite+section.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fWCQ32uj9_w/UjOg7GfK-wI/AAAAAAAAD5Y/dX0eU4SOO84/s400/my+favorite+section.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Favorite section - Cape of Good Hope</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I made it to my first checkpoint at mile 17 where my faithful crew was waiting for me. Downing some calories and electrolytes, picked up Matt Trappe and we were gone. I was ahead of schedule at this point and for the next 20 myles we maintained that pace. <i>That pace</i> was basically running all the flats and downs with intermittent hiking uphill. Because of this slower than race pace effort I was able to pack and eat most real food items such as: breakfast burritos, Ensure, granola bars, Pay Day candy bars, Allen Lim's rice bars, cookies, and fruit. But I also had my <a href="http://www.firstendurance.com/nutrition/efs-liquid-shot.html">First Endurance liquid shot flasks</a> for that much needed "pick me up". I also had two 20 oz bottles, one filled with straight water and the other filled with grape electrolyte drink. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bUxnFiNY4Xo/UipaW3sMs2I/AAAAAAAAD3g/_Y01hClmLgY/s1600/CT+food.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bUxnFiNY4Xo/UipaW3sMs2I/AAAAAAAAD3g/_Y01hClmLgY/s400/CT+food.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My choices at aid stations. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Matt was busy running ahead and snapping some great pictures but also getting some good video footage. He most certainly did more than 20 myles in that section. There were lots of people out on the trail; some day hikers, some thru hikers (by the looks of their beards and must), and others who were doing the segments between Molas and Jxn Creek over a weeks time. We stopped and chatted with a few and I was always reluctant to tell them what I was doing. Maybe I was more afraid of what they were thinking... "<i>a week to get to Waterton canyon - no way!"</i> In my mind I knew what I could do and it would be close to the FKT so I didn't need any doubt from others creeping in.<br />
<br />
Finally we arrive at Hotel Draw, 42 myles and 10 hours into the journey. My crew is there all set up with turkey wraps made, cold Coke, EFS grape drink, and a nice comfy chair. While I eat my food, my wife runs around repacking my <a href="http://www.ultraspirestore.com/Fastpack-Ultra-Red-p/ua055re.htm">Ultraspire pack</a> for the next segment of my journey. This is how all the aid stations went - flawless. The precision of a high speed NASCAR crew but with a calm demeanor and smiles all around. <br />
<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-weFiJvjwWZY/UitrpWoo_XI/AAAAAAAAD3w/K0qmKYO8Tzc/s1600/Fairy+Trimboli.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-weFiJvjwWZY/UitrpWoo_XI/AAAAAAAAD3w/K0qmKYO8Tzc/s400/Fairy+Trimboli.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">My faithful trail fairy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I now pick up Mr fairy himself, Brendan Trimboli. I gave him a hard time for not toting the fairy wings while he paced me at Hardrock so he broke them out and certainly lifted my spirits. Brendan was set to take me the next 50K to Molas pass. The climb up to Blackhawk pass was casual. In fact, I tried to keep most of every day casual. I didn't want any soreness in my muscles and the only way to do that was to keep it under the hood. Picture this: a Pinto (car) with a souped-up Corvette engine. Saving it for when I need it. Rick would meet us again in 11 myles at Bolam pass. Most who have gone this direction trying to set the FKT would stop at Bolam pass and with 13 hours into my journey, I contemplated it. After I sat down to drink <span style="text-align: center;">my Coke and Ensure, I felt revived. I felt in my heart that I could push on and be off the trail by midnight.</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WH7ZTchlL5A/Uittlu8CUgI/AAAAAAAAD4U/t2rC8l40ImY/s1600/Resting+day+0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WH7ZTchlL5A/Uittlu8CUgI/AAAAAAAAD4U/t2rC8l40ImY/s400/Resting+day+0.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Resting up at Bolam Pass for the final push</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We crossed Cascade creek at 8 PM and shortly after dawned our headlamps. A stiff climb up to a 13,000 foot pass awaited us and it would not disappoint. For the first time in 16 hours I had to sit on a rock and gather myself. I had been eating and drinking regularly but the day was wearing on me, as would any hundred mile race. I knew once at the top of the pass there would only be 11 myles remaining. I was not thinking about any days beyond the moment I was in and felt that mentally was my saving grace day after day. This was the first of many nights and what I came to dislike about darkness was that it always seemed farther than it actually was. We could not see any horizons and judging by familiar places on the trail, we always thought we were closer. One example of this was when we saw a headlamp in the distance. Rick had mentioned he would get to little Molas lake and started making his way towards us. The light lifted our spirits but the closer we got the light, the further it seemed away. The trail contours the finger like canyons in a u-shaped fashion; meaning a straight line would only have been a couple myles. Turns out the light was Megan Finnesy. She had walked out to meet us but started back towards little Molas when our lights disappeared in the canyons. Anxious and frustrated, I wanted to be done.<br />
<br />
Soon enough we caught up with Megan, rounded a couple of ridges, and heard a few faint tires humming on Hwy 550 below. Brandon Stapanowich and Rick were waiting on the side of the trail a mile up from little Molas, while my wife and Livvy waited at the lake. All of this lifted my spirits but it was late. 12:40 AM. I ate some beef stew and anything else I could get into my mouth before I passed out. Brandon and I would hit the trail at 6 AM the next morning. A little late but refreshed mentally and physically. Now my favorite and toughest part of the Colorado Trail - The mighty San Juan's.<br />
<br />
<b>Myles: 73.9 </b><br />
<b>Time: 19h 35m<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></b><br />
<b>Elevation gain: 15,608 </b><br />
<b>Myles to go: 411.9</b><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GjHYzimiiCM/UjOg7ImwjhI/AAAAAAAAD5g/hDvlcKJJVIw/s1600/1st+day+crew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GjHYzimiiCM/UjOg7ImwjhI/AAAAAAAAD5g/hDvlcKJJVIw/s400/1st+day+crew.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">End of the first day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hM3AcJONBBg/UjOg7AvmNvI/AAAAAAAAD5U/2p2t1zg8FW4/s1600/First+night+eating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hM3AcJONBBg/UjOg7AvmNvI/AAAAAAAAD5U/2p2t1zg8FW4/s400/First+night+eating.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eating as much as I can at 1 AM</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-51752956970939323502013-08-15T11:09:00.001-06:002013-08-15T11:09:13.042-06:00CTFKT attemptCTFKT - The Colorado Trail Fastest Known Time attempt for those not familiar with trail acronyms. <br />
<br />
Here I am again, just on the opposite end this time. I completed the CT from Denver to Durango in 2009 but not for any record. I simply wanted to finish and try to define my genetic potential. It was the toughest thing I had accomplished in my life and here I go ago again. It took me 11 days, 12 hours, 37 minutes and I finished on my 40th birthday, averaging just over 40 myles per day. <br />
<br />
I've said all this before. I am just nervous and trying to stay active (mentally) as the trail awaits me tomorrow morning. I really should be working... Dakota wrote a <a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/trails-run/colorado-trail-colorado">great article</a> on the CT last winter, in which, he quoted me:<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><i>"The trail—in all its splendor, majesty and drama—is long enough to indoctrinate a soul to the natural world and leave behind the material one. I became one with the trail as it took me through the most scenic areas of the Rockies, the famed mineral belt, high above the old mining towns. Each day the trail welcomed me back with relentless climbs and asked me to redefine my limits. It’s much bigger than I am; it forever shaped my character, and will continue to inspire me"</i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><i><br /></i></span>
I still feel this way 4 years after finishing the trail. I look forward to the journey and all the disconnectedness that comes with it! <br />
You can follow my journey here: <a href="http://trackleaders.com/cti.php?name=Scott_Jaime" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" target="_blank">http://trackleaders.com/<wbr></wbr>cti.php?name=Scott_Jaime</a> or here <a href="http://trackleaders.com/ct" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" target="_blank">trackleaders.com/ct</a>. <br />
You can also follow me on twitter for updates: @mexiFast #ctfkt and Facebook<br />
<br />
Waterton canyon here I come!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-50164618352001142642013-07-30T18:45:00.000-06:002013-07-30T18:45:34.773-06:00Achieving Balance: The Colorado TrailWhen I approached <a href="http://www.trappephoto.com/">Matt Trappe</a> about documenting my Colorado Trail journey, I had no idea it would turn into a full length film. I simply wanted a keepsake that I could look back on to share with my kids and grandkids. But Matt, being the artist he is, saw much more. <br />
<br />
This is the first of two teasers that will be released prior to the completed film. I hope you enjoy it!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/71354364?autoplay=1&api=1" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="580"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-41234420684003059662013-07-28T17:44:00.003-06:002013-07-29T19:34:59.523-06:00Colorado Trail Adventure<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Zp_YY1MlVE/UfLk_n-p7lI/AAAAAAAADfg/o9ARojDE74Y/s1600/Confidence+marker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Zp_YY1MlVE/UfLk_n-p7lI/AAAAAAAADfg/o9ARojDE74Y/s400/Confidence+marker.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And so it begins.... again.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now that the haze has lifted from Hardrock, I can concentrate on the <a href="http://www.coloradotrail.org/">Colorado Trail</a>. Many paralyzing thoughts enter my mind: will I be recovered from <a href="http://hardrock100.com/index.php">Hardrock</a>.... are all the logistics in place... and a bunch of "what if" scenarios... I'm already nervous 3 weeks out, kinda like the first time I ran Hardrock. I know what the Colorado Trail has in store for me and it has <i>pain</i> written all over it. My sensible side says "then why do it again?" Good question. Why do we do <i>anything</i> that's adventurous? My answer is to see what I'm capable of doing. Lewis and Clark pushed their expedition to the limits, some paid with their lives while others succeeded in opening up the new frontier.<br />
<div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-awBKCepMWhU/UfLlBq5GRvI/AAAAAAAADgY/KX3ovOuwKnI/s1600/The+book+that+inspired.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-awBKCepMWhU/UfLlBq5GRvI/AAAAAAAADgY/KX3ovOuwKnI/s400/The+book+that+inspired.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The book that inspired</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gldlc1lFZ-Q/UfLmSRu0gII/AAAAAAAADg8/HhIU_2i2_0I/s1600/Family+on+day+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gldlc1lFZ-Q/UfLmSRu0gII/AAAAAAAADg8/HhIU_2i2_0I/s400/Family+on+day+11.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">My family supports me 100%</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i8-FkArcczA/UfLk-lEHq2I/AAAAAAAADfM/xFpQgTL_UfA/s1600/Brian+Fisher+and+I+at+Waterton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i8-FkArcczA/UfLk-lEHq2I/AAAAAAAADfM/xFpQgTL_UfA/s400/Brian+Fisher+and+I+at+Waterton.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brian Fisher at the start</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's as simple as that - pushing one's limits. I want to see if I can complete the Colorado Trail faster than anyone has ever done it. The trail has been done hundreds, maybe even a thousand times before, but I'd like to put something out there for others to test their limits against. Last time I completed the Colorado Trail in 11 days, 12 hours, and 46 minutes in 2009. I wasn't going for any speed records, just to finish on my 40th birthday. That was an average of 43 myles per day. This time I'm asking my body and mind to average just over 60 myles per day, both aggressive and daunting. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ij5NuDXGcMY/UfLmTLKWkLI/AAAAAAAADhA/mzSkhVa6eYk/s1600/Rick+and+I+-+Day+3+Segment+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 13px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ij5NuDXGcMY/UfLmTLKWkLI/AAAAAAAADhA/mzSkhVa6eYk/s400/Rick+and+I+-+Day+3+Segment+7.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rick Hessek on day 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OHwV80DJLp4/UfLk-gYjj3I/AAAAAAAADfI/raI7GTr5vaE/s1600/Bill+Dooper+and+I+at+Tenn.+Pass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OHwV80DJLp4/UfLk-gYjj3I/AAAAAAAADfI/raI7GTr5vaE/s400/Bill+Dooper+and+I+at+Tenn.+Pass.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ultra Fan Bill Dooper in Leadville</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SfXxZyf5I54/UfZr3HmiQ3I/AAAAAAAADhg/6zgUBgZEdc8/s1600/Parents+CT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SfXxZyf5I54/UfZr3HmiQ3I/AAAAAAAADhg/6zgUBgZEdc8/s400/Parents+CT.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Parents on day 5</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Last time I had severe shin splints starting on day 7 and agonized through them for the better part of 5 days. Wrapping my shins and icing everyday and even walking backwards downhill just to keep moving forward. To make matters worse, I also slurped down some <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giardia_lamblia">Giardia lamblia</a> on day 9. Thank goodness it takes 7 days to incubate otherwise I would have never finished. Once I was home though, I could not eat or drink anything for a week because it came out just as fast. I lost another 9 lbs after I got home to the already 10 I lost on the trail. I was emaciated.<br />
<br />
Now you see why it's easy for me to be nervous. It's the hardest thing I've ever done in my life and I'm going to do it again. I have many people supporting me, many of the same people as last time, and I cannot thank them enough. My trustworthy crew to meet me at critical trail junctions and know exactly what I need at a moments notice is the difference between success and failure. The CT is a known factor to us but things happen out there and my crew knows what to do. This time, however, I am going from Durango to Denver so it throws a little curve ball into the mix but not much. We are ready. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LHT-AbSFjmM/UfLk_0ZNvDI/AAAAAAAADgA/jCTBZV8CKcU/s1600/Harsha+and+I.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LHT-AbSFjmM/UfLk_0ZNvDI/AAAAAAAADgA/jCTBZV8CKcU/s400/Harsha+and+I.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harsha on day 6</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8eHpq7yFBFM/UfLmTavZ_9I/AAAAAAAADhQ/m1W4wnhnEo8/s1600/The+Darnold's+to+meet+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 13px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8eHpq7yFBFM/UfLmTavZ_9I/AAAAAAAADhQ/m1W4wnhnEo8/s400/The+Darnold's+to+meet+me.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The Darnold's at Molas Pass</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xkLCKRhb20s/UfLlBOBDkrI/AAAAAAAADgI/N8hOSTeZIZc/s1600/Paul+and+I+at+Molas+Pass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xkLCKRhb20s/UfLlBOBDkrI/AAAAAAAADgI/N8hOSTeZIZc/s400/Paul+and+I+at+Molas+Pass.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paul Dewitt at the end of day 10</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Here is my schedule:<br />
<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 661px;">
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<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 6656; mso-width-source: userset; width: 156pt;" width="156"></col>
<col style="mso-width-alt: 7168; mso-width-source: userset; width: 168pt;" width="168"></col>
<col span="4" style="width: 65pt;" width="65"></col>
<col style="mso-width-alt: 3285; mso-width-source: userset; width: 77pt;" width="77"></col>
</colgroup><tbody>
<tr height="19" style="height: 19.0pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="19" style="height: 19.0pt; width: 156pt;" width="156"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Day</span></td>
<td class="xl66" style="border-left: none; width: 168pt;" width="168"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Segment</span></td>
<td class="xl66" style="border-left: none; width: 65pt;" width="65"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Mileage</span></td>
<td class="xl66" style="border-left: none; width: 65pt;" width="65"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Time (hrs)</span></td>
<td class="xl66" style="border-left: none; width: 65pt;" width="65"><span style="font-size: x-small;">TOD</span></td>
<td class="xl66" style="border-left: none; width: 65pt;" width="65"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Pacer</span></td>
<td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; width: 77pt;" width="77"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Matt Trappe</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="16" style="height: 16.0pt;">
<td class="xl67" height="16" style="height: 16.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Friday, August 16 Day 1</b></span></td>
<td class="xl67" style="border-left: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Junction Creek - 28</span></td>
<td class="xl67" style="border-left: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">0</span></td>
<td class="xl67" style="border-left: none;"></td>
<td class="xl68" style="border-left: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">5:00 AM</span></td>
<td class="xl69" style="border-left: none;"></td>
<td class="xl69" style="border-left: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bike</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Crew</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Kennebec TH - 27</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">21.5</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">5</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">10:00 AM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bike</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Crew</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Hotel Draw Rd - 26</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">42.1</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">11</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">4:00 PM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Brendan</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl73" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Finish</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Molas Pass - 25</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">73.9</span></b></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>19</b></span></td>
<td class="xl74" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">12:00 AM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Brendan</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl70" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Saturday,
August 17 Day 2</b></span></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Molas Pass - 24</span></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl71" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">5:00 AM</span></td>
<td class="xl72" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Brandon S.</span></td>
<td class="xl72" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Crew</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Carson Saddle - 23</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">35.7</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">9</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">2:00 PM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Rick H.</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Run</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl73" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Finish</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Spring Creek pass -
22</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">52.8</span></b></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>14</b></span></td>
<td class="xl74" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">7:00 PM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Run</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Total</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">126.7</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl70" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Sunday, August
18 Day 3</b></span></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Spring Creek Pass -
21</span></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl71" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">5:00 AM</span></td>
<td class="xl72" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Brandon S.</span></td>
<td class="xl72" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Crew</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Eddieville TH - 20</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">27.5</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">7</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Noon</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Rick H.</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl73" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Finish</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Colorado Hwy 114 - 18</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">55</span></b></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>14</b></span></td>
<td class="xl74" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">7:00 PM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Total</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">181.7</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl70" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Monday, August
19 Day 4</b></span></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Colorado Hwy 114
- 17</span></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl71" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">5:00 AM</span></td>
<td class="xl72" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Rick H.</span></td>
<td class="xl72" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bike</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Crew</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Marshall Pass - 16</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">35.6</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">9</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">2:00 PM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Rick H.</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bike</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl73" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Finish</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">US 50 - 15</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">49.8</span></b></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>13</b></span></td>
<td class="xl74" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">6:00 PM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bike</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Total</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">231.5</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl70" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Tuesday,
August 20 Day 5</b></span></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">US 50 - 14</span></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl71" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">5:00 AM</span></td>
<td class="xl72" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bryon</span></td>
<td class="xl72" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bike</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Crew</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Chalk Creek - 13</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">20.9</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">5.5</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">10:30 AM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Meghan</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Crew</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">N. Cottonwood crk
-12 </span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">43.7</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">12</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">5:00 PM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl73" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Finish</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Clear Creek rd. - 12</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">62.2</span></b></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>16</b></span></td>
<td class="xl74" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">9:00 PM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Total</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">293.7</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl70" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Wednesday,
August 21 Day 6</b></span></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Clear Creek rd. - 11</span></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl71" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">5:00 AM</span></td>
<td class="xl72" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Harsha</span></td>
<td class="xl72" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Crew</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Half Moon creek - 10</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">21.5</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">6</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">11:00 AM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Harsha</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Crew</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Timberline Lake - 9</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">34.5</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">9</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">2:00 PM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Harsha</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl73" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Finish</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Tennessee Pass - 9</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">48.1</span></b></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>13</b></span></td>
<td class="xl74" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">6:00 PM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Harsha</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Total</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">341.8</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl70" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Thursday,
August 22 Day 7</b></span></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Tennessee Pass - 8</span></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl71" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">5:00 AM</span></td>
<td class="xl72" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl72" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Run</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Crew</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Copper Mtn - 7</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">25.4</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">7</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Noon</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Run</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Crew</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Gold Hill - 6</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">38.2</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">11</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">4:00 PM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bike</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Crew</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Middle Fork Swan
River - 6</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">54</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">15</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">8:00 PM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Nick P.</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bike</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl73" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Finish</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Kenosha Pass - 6</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">71.1</span></b></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>20</b></span></td>
<td class="xl74" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">1:00 AM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Total</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">412.9</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl70" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Friday, August
23 Day 8</b></span></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Kenosha Pass - 5</span></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><br /></td>
<td class="xl70" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><br /></td>
<td class="xl71" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">5:00 AM</span></td>
<td class="xl72" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl72" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Crew</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Wellington Lake rd. -
4</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">31</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">9</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">2:00 PM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Rick H.</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Crew</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">FS - 550 Buffalo Crk
- 3</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">43.7</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">12</span></td>
<td class="xl64" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">5:00 PM</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Rick H.</span></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bike</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl73" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Finish</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Waterton Canyon</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">72</span></b></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>21</b></span></td>
<td class="xl74" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">2:00 AM</span></td>
<td class="xl75" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bike</span></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl73" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Total</span></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">484.9</span></b></td>
<td class="xl73" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl74" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">7d 21h</span></b></td>
<td class="xl75" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl75" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
</tr>
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<col style="mso-width-alt: 3285; mso-width-source: userset; width: 77pt;" width="77"></col>
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<td class="xl66" height="19" style="height: 19.0pt; width: 156pt;" width="156"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></td><td class="xl66" style="border-left: none; width: 168pt;" width="168"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></td><td class="xl66" style="border-left: none; width: 65pt;" width="65"><br /></td><td class="xl66" style="border-left: none; width: 65pt;" width="65"><br /></td><td class="xl66" style="border-left: none; width: 65pt;" width="65"><br /></td><td class="xl66" style="border-left: none; width: 65pt;" width="65"><br /></td><td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; width: 77pt;" width="77"><br /></td></tr>
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<br />
<div>
As you can see this is very aggressive and no way will it pan out exactly like I planned. The current FKT (<a href="http://fastestknowntime.proboards.com/thread/10">Fastest Known Time</a>) is 8 days, 12 hours, 14 minutes, 5 seconds set by Paul Pomeroy. It's a very tight record but hopefully I've built enough wiggle room in there to get under the FKT<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E8NjFl3TdJU/UfLk_A8PRGI/AAAAAAAADfk/uhxyeml4WJA/s1600/Colorado+Trail+29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E8NjFl3TdJU/UfLk_A8PRGI/AAAAAAAADfk/uhxyeml4WJA/s400/Colorado+Trail+29.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My family on day 11</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kXDmrbhHbWo/UfLlAXSYksI/AAAAAAAADf0/BPx-L9k9R5g/s1600/Near+Blackhawk+pass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kXDmrbhHbWo/UfLlAXSYksI/AAAAAAAADf0/BPx-L9k9R5g/s400/Near+Blackhawk+pass.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jaxon at Blackhawk pass on day 11</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dqp-CHWgG2E/UfLk_RLovGI/AAAAAAAADfc/UTNE7airFtQ/s1600/Colorado+Trail+88.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dqp-CHWgG2E/UfLk_RLovGI/AAAAAAAADfc/UTNE7airFtQ/s400/Colorado+Trail+88.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My crew chief Rick Robinson at the end</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YEwzySJV96E/UfLlAIISkCI/AAAAAAAADf4/JhNGUlljWLQ/s1600/My+wife+and+I.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YEwzySJV96E/UfLlAIISkCI/AAAAAAAADf4/JhNGUlljWLQ/s400/My+wife+and+I.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My ever loving wife Nicole Jaime at the end</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.trappephoto.com/">Matt Trappe</a> is doing a documentary on my journey. We've been filming for the past couple of months and it's kept my mind focused on the task at hand. This documentary really isn't about breaking the record but more about a normal family man with a full time job and a sense of adventure. When you see the film the question will be answered of what drives me to seek out adventures and how it makes me a better husband, father, son, and co-worker. In the end, I hope to inspire people to push their own limits and seek out new found adventures to lead a happy and healthy life.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WDs9Wnesqos/UfLmSHdUO_I/AAAAAAAADgw/o_RJGdFT1BY/s1600/Colorado+Trail+223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 13px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WDs9Wnesqos/UfLmSHdUO_I/AAAAAAAADgw/o_RJGdFT1BY/s400/Colorado+Trail+223.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The end September 13th, 2009<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My wife will take control of my Twitter account (@Mexifast) and also update my Facebook page. Follow along and if you're in the area, I'd love to see you out there at some point. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-16398856617169235492013-07-18T16:24:00.001-06:002013-07-20T13:27:18.598-06:00Hardrock 100 - 3rd 26.38<div class="MsoNormal">
Hardrock 2013 is in the books and I’m happy to report I
kissed the rock for the 7<sup>th</sup> time with a PR, nonetheless. I always tell people that I am continually
chasing my ghost and this time gray haired Jaime finally passed
him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am blown away with the support I receive at Hardrock every year from my family, friends, and newly found friends. My
wife somehow understands how important Hardrock is to me and since we’ve been
doing it for the past decade off and on, my family embraces Silverton as their
hometown.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank you Nicole for
supporting me for so many years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
thank you to my parents, in-laws, and Darnolds who love this race just as much as I
do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could not do this without your
support.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So here it goes, grab a beer and settle in for a journey
through the San Juans:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PRE-RACE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This year we arrived in Silverton on June 25<sup>th</sup>,
which is a little less time than last year but enough time to be considered a resident.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I organized a SoftRock event two weeks prior to Hardrock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>SoftRock is<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> basically </span>running the course over 3 days and I was accompanied by the <a href="http://www.humrs.blogspot.com/">HUMR</a> group
from Utah and a few fellow Coloradans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The weekend was a lot of fun, especially for me because I had the opportunity
to show 15 people around the Hardrock course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>For so many years, they have been hearing stories of how beautiful and
tough the course is and now they get to experience it first hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I questioned whether I was doing too much too
close to Hardrock but decided if I just took my time it would be time on my
feet, especially with the Colorado Trail coming up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We ended up traversing the course
in 36 hours and my body felt great.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mizJsvuf6xg/UehoBYEM-4I/AAAAAAAAC08/GSo1bYXq7vQ/s1600/Softrock+silverton.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mizJsvuf6xg/UehoBYEM-4I/AAAAAAAAC08/GSo1bYXq7vQ/s400/Softrock+silverton.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soft Rock crew in Silverton. photo Molly Trappe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next couple of weeks leading up to the race would be
easy runs, spread out with a bunch of rest. By the time raceday came I was feeling fresh, acclimatized and as fit as I've ever been.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
THE RACE<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Silverton to Sherman (0 - 29 miles)</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No nerves to start, just anxious to get
running.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leaving town I quickly settled
in with <a href="http://ultrarunnerrn.blogspot.com/">Chris Price</a> and for the moment Josh Maiz and Karl Meltzer. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://alpine-works.com/">Joe Grant</a> and <a href="http://www.sebchaigneau.com/en/">Sebastian Chaigneau</a> were already off the front by mile
3 and Troy Howard was in hot pursuit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was
telling Chris that we would be good if we got to Cunningham in 2.05 to 2.10.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As easy as I was running we got there in 1.57
– yikes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I often make the mistake of
going out too fast and I felt like I did it again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I didn’t wear a watch so my crew told me I was “ok, just settle
in".<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I left Cunningham with Troy and felt
even better climbing the next hill to Green Mountain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was well within myself and really enjoying
being alone at this point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cfoUDdiRtzI/UehoB98uvgI/AAAAAAAAC1A/36mMjwii_Qc/s1600/Stoney+Pass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cfoUDdiRtzI/UehoB98uvgI/AAAAAAAAC1A/36mMjwii_Qc/s400/Stoney+Pass.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just to so show you how small we are. Look in the bottom right corner, that's me running. photo Matt Trappe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I pulled into Maggies Gulch at 9:33, which is still cooking, so I made a concerted effort to slow it down and eat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The next section leading into Pole Creek is
relatively flat with easy running but it’s at 11,000 ft so runners can really
blow it out here if they don’t watch it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It took me 49 minutes to get to Pole creek and Troy was hot on
my heels.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t stop at Pole Creek because I knew I'd be walking parts to get to the top of Cataract
Gulch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t realize in the moment, but I was working too hard to keep Troy behind me for most of the way
up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally I pulled over to eat and let
him go by, he was running really strong and knew I was digging a hole to be
running everything with him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>The lesson
here: Run. Your. Own. Race!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can get
caught up within the race and not even know it.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>From the top of Cataract Gulch down to Sherman was pretty uneventful, I
just soaked in the views and ran methodically to the aid station.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got there at 12:07 which marks my fastest
time to Sherman and –by far- feeling the best I had to that point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sherman to Ouray (29 - 57 miles)</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Now the work begins, but not racing yet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I picked up my sticks for the foray over
Handies and found myself running large portions up Burrows Park road – that’s
never happened before…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was hell bent
on hiking strong over Handies and feeling good coming out the other side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I followed Troy up Handies step for step but
once we hit the top he was gone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I ate and drank a bunch in this section because I was walking a razors edge at this point. I just needed for the fuel to kick in before I started pushing again. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9wBqoc28-pQ/Uehn_29z0lI/AAAAAAAAC0c/AOAbJiiAtTc/s1600/Grouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9wBqoc28-pQ/Uehn_29z0lI/AAAAAAAAC0c/AOAbJiiAtTc/s400/Grouse.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming into Grouse with a smile on my face. photo Dom Grossman for iRunfar</td></tr>
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In and out of Grouse Gulch was a good sign. I usually feel the wheels start to come off at this point. I picked up <a href="http://www.teamcrud.com/rickh.html">Rick Hessek</a>, who would take me to Ouray. Not much talking going on up Engineer road because I was still teetering. Anytime I got low on energy I started nipping at my <a href="http://www.firstendurance.com/nutrition/efs-liquid-shot.html">EFS liquid shot flask</a> and I could feel the life spring back into my legs. I ran real well all the way down to Ouray so I was really surprised to see Diana on my heels. I had arrived at the front end of my splits (6:55 PM), still in good spirits, and now picking up my second pacer.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qt3ODT9ptzY/UehoBcvqxYI/AAAAAAAAC1E/ZwDzzQW4hZ4/s1600/crew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qt3ODT9ptzY/UehoBcvqxYI/AAAAAAAAC1E/ZwDzzQW4hZ4/s400/crew.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crew chasing me into Grouse</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s9H1dgJvtSk/UehoAbvwopI/AAAAAAAAC0s/UKd0_tz6hqY/s1600/Ouray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s9H1dgJvtSk/UehoAbvwopI/AAAAAAAAC0s/UKd0_tz6hqY/s400/Ouray.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running down Bear Creek with Rick Hessek. photo iRunfar</td></tr>
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<b>Ouray to Chapman (57 - 82 miles)</b></div>
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Nick Pedatella has the honor of slogging up Camp Bird road with me. I dread it but at least it was cool, slightly misting, and not many cars. Nick didn't give me an option to eat and drink, he said "you will be done with that chicken broth and rice bar by the time we get to Governors" I did it and we also got to Governors without turning on our headlamps. At this point, I'm starting to think about my finish time. I know I'm running a good smart race and with the help of my pacers I'm feeling good. Once up at Kroger's the first thing I ask for is a beer. They thought I was kidding at Governor but this time Roch Horton came through with an Odoul's. Two shots of that stuff and I flew down to Telluride. I don't know what it is about beer but it's refreshing and it makes me happy. I had one at Jemez this year but only because I got lost (with Pedatella) and my race was over. <b>Another lesson here: Beer calms your stomach down and makes you happy. </b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nBfJfOZXf2c/UehoAT4ZD_I/AAAAAAAAC0g/13shUjOqARE/s1600/Krogers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nBfJfOZXf2c/UehoAT4ZD_I/AAAAAAAAC0g/13shUjOqARE/s400/Krogers.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's right folks - beer! At Krogers. photo Roch Horton</td></tr>
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Into Telluride still on the front end of my splits and now the racing begins. I dropped Pedatella off and picked up <a href="http://www.solarweasel.com/">Brendan Trimboli</a>. He did a quick assessment of what I'd been eating and how I felt - key if you want to be a good pacer. I felt a little twinge in my left quad right on the vastus medialis or sartorius muscle. Only hurt if I was going down a steep downhill, like the one coming up off of Oscars. I did my best to put the brunt on my right quad slowing me down quite a bit on the downs. Chris Price was still lurking behind me and <a href="http://www.dominicgrossman.com/">Dominic Grossman</a> did his best to let me know by hooting and hollering and stall tactics (Kenny Loggins Footloose dance). We saw their lights just as we left the lower basin of the Wasatch saddle, I predicted about 20 minutes. I didn't put too much thought into what was behind me, I was now racing so I was always looking forward to get a time gap to Diana. </div>
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Once into Chapman my crew (Beth Blankenship and Jim Darnold) had told us Diana was only 12 minutes up. I stayed a few minutes sucking down <a href="http://www.firstendurance.com/nutrition/efs-drink.html">EFS grape drink</a> and an Ensure but started to catch a chill so we began hunting again. </div>
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<b>Chapman to Silverton (82 - 101 miles)</b></div>
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I was still climbing strong despite the bum quad. I had told Brendan to string me out a bit and see if I could hang on. So in other words, he kept me honest. We saw Diana and Ben's lights up ahead coming back to us ever so slightly. I didn't believe it but Diana was going through a rough patch right before Grant-Swamp and she eventually had to stop at KT only a few miles away. Really sad to see her stop but with her recent episodes of health issues at Hardrock, I don't blame her. </div>
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One of the first things I told Brendan when he picked me up was that I wanted to be at KT in the dark at 5:30 AM. Seemed like a stretch but we pulled into KT right on the money! My crew was there but they were cheering for Diana (I guess Brendan had the same color of shirt on) and then they finally saw me and erupted. I love that feeling after a long night! Pumpkin pie and Coke hit the spot and we were gone. </div>
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A few more climbs and a nasty trail down from Putnam is all I had to go. We got to the top of the last climb and looked back, we saw no one. That effectively gave me at least a 30 minute lead but because of my left quad I could not go down hill very fast and I know Chris could smell my gray hairs. We pulled into Putman and learned that Chris had left 20 minutes after I did. That made me a little nervous. I decided not to stop at Putnam and gritted it out till the end. If I stopped and started, that's when the quad would seize up so I made it a point to not stop. The grade is also gradual enough that it didn't hurt that much. But now I can smell the barn so I was hell bent with tunnel vision to get under 27 and keep everyone else behind me. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2JVlHINf_Ww/UehqwiOKtxI/AAAAAAAAC1c/AlO3wR4A2ac/s1600/Top+of+Putnam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2JVlHINf_Ww/UehqwiOKtxI/AAAAAAAAC1c/AlO3wR4A2ac/s400/Top+of+Putnam.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top of Putnam. photo Brendan Trimboli</td></tr>
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Finally down to the river and I had no energy left. My crew and <a href="http://www.trappephoto.com/">Matt Trappe</a> (one of many places) were there and I just didn't have any emotion to evoke at this point. I had 45 minutes to get under 27. I ran pretty much everything from that point, save it the grunt up to the shrine. One our way up to the shrine Brendan and I encountered a very rare sight. A couple of deers were being chased down the road by a large coyote. The deer ran right towards us, nearly running us over, the coyote screeched to a halt and high tailed it back into the hills. How appropriate to finish a race, a hunter hunting. The same mode that I'd been in ever since I left Telluride. </div>
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There is nothing better than running down the chute to kiss the rock. I got very emotional this year because I had put it all out there and my entire family was there to witness it and celebrate with me. Thank you to all my crew and pacers as well as all the volunteers and race committee for Hardrock. I am indebted to all you and look forward to a time I can give back to a race that has given me so much. Also a big congratulations to all those who lined up! Until next year, cheers!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_vogiNpTb04/UehoAQqQyYI/AAAAAAAAC0o/Oxk3boMoom8/s1600/HR+finish+family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_vogiNpTb04/UehoAQqQyYI/AAAAAAAAC0o/Oxk3boMoom8/s400/HR+finish+family.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The family at the finish. photo Matt Trappe</td></tr>
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Here is all the stuff I consumed during the race:</div>
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<li>9 EFS liquid shot flasks</li>
<li>7 bottles of EFS grape drink</li>
<li>1 bottle of EFS tropical punch drink</li>
<li>10 bottles of water</li>
<li>8 pouches of Peter Rabbit Organics</li>
<li>20 oz of Chicken broth</li>
<li>4 bowls of ramon noodles</li>
<li>30 oz of Coke</li>
<li>6 bags of <a href="http://mycocoroons.com/">CocoRoons</a></li>
<li>6 rice bars (<a href="http://feedzonecookbook.files.wordpress.com/2011/10/feedzonecookbook_allenlimricecakes.pdf">recipe in Feed Zone</a>)</li>
<li>4 pieces of pumpkin pie</li>
<li>multiple pieces of crystallized ginger</li>
<li>4 Ensure</li>
<li>4 oz of Odoul's</li>
<li>2 chocolate chip cookies</li>
<li>2 servings of Ultragen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-77834999714975300692013-05-17T16:15:00.001-06:002013-05-17T16:15:15.108-06:00PCT 50 - 5th 7.46Exactly two weeks after Zane Grey I decided to take on another 50 mile race. Sounded like a good idea while I sat at my computer looking at races. Sure enough, 1/2 way through the race I was cursing my decision. Here's how it played out:<br />
<br />
The nice thing about this trip is that my wife came along, just the two of us, hanging out in sunny San Diego. So regardless of how the race turned out, the trip would be good. We got in late Thursday night and then spent all day Friday lounging around in La Jolla. I must say it was relaxing but every now and again I would remind myself I had to race in the morning - ugh. I could tell my mind was not fresh and soon enough I'd find out my body wasn't either.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qTl6pXOadbk/UZaopY81l5I/AAAAAAAACyY/csM2PKWnJRM/s1600/Nicole+La+Jolla.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qTl6pXOadbk/UZaopY81l5I/AAAAAAAACyY/csM2PKWnJRM/s400/Nicole+La+Jolla.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nicole in La Jolla</td></tr>
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At the start I could tell it was going to be a scorcher, not a cloud in the sky and the air was still. We took off right at 6 AM and right from the get-go Rod Bien, Fabrice, Hardel, and another fellow were running at a pretty good clip up the hill. As much as I wanted to go out with them, I knew that was a recipe for disaster. By the first aid station, mile 6-7, they were out of sight. Jesse Haynes and I ran together for the next 15 myles and really keeping a steady pace. Most of the climbing is done on the way out but we were running everything. It's that douche-bag grade stuff that you just can't walk but at the same time takes its toll for running it.<br />
<br />
Right before the turn around I sensed my body was not going to hold on at that pace. I hit the 25 mile mark in 3.25 and now I had the chance to see where the 3 leaders were. Rod and Fabrice were about 10 minutes up, while 3rd place was only 4 minutes up. I got a little charge out of that and decided to push and see what I had. Pretty steady running for the next 12 myles and I found myself in 2nd place. I quickly asked the aid station how far up Rod was and they told me a demoralizing "30 minutes". Rod was running out of his mind! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LEfO_aizjNo/UZapHXYaWPI/AAAAAAAACyg/AYItmCZH3Qs/s1600/Mile+32.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LEfO_aizjNo/UZapHXYaWPI/AAAAAAAACyg/AYItmCZH3Qs/s400/Mile+32.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 32 or so</td></tr>
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I had given everything I had up till about 13 myles to go and hearing the news just let the wind out of my sail. I put my head down and pushed on, most of which was downhill running, but I started to develop cramps in my upper calves and groin. That was really the beginning of the end. And just like that, a freight train came past me: Jesse was first and he was motoring, next was Fabrice, and finally with 1.5 myles to go the fellow I didn't know. <br />
<br />
I basically walked the last 4 myles and really, really could not wait for this race to be over. I finished and I couldn't be happier to see Nicole waiting for me. She looked concerned, which means I looked like hell, and I immediately collapsed in a chair. After my Ultragen I must have downed 4 cokes in the span of 10 minutes. The cramps were still acting up in my legs so I just lounged in the chair for a good hour. Nicole said my face was caked in salt so I know I was doing enough electrolytes, I just think it was too hot for this Colorado boy<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MgKjdFEkCkk/UZap0MwMkfI/AAAAAAAACyo/hRuViCfIqWc/s1600/walking+to+the+finish.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MgKjdFEkCkk/UZap0MwMkfI/AAAAAAAACyo/hRuViCfIqWc/s320/walking+to+the+finish.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walking to the finish</td></tr>
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We didn't hang around too long, all I could think about was a shower and food. Specifically, <a href="http://www.el-indio.com/">El Indio shop</a>, the Mexican food I grew up on and it did not disappoint. I have to admit that I ate a tortilla for the first time all year but since it's not "technically" bread I still have my food challenge going for the year. <br />
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Next up, Jemez 50 mile on May 25th. What was I thinking??Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-87933648706496609502013-05-10T09:56:00.001-06:002013-05-13T14:56:37.315-06:00Zane Grey 50 - 9th 10.20On the eve of another 50 I had better put some thoughts down around Zane Grey or all will be lost. <br />
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Zane Grey didn't turn out as I had hoped but I can tell you it was the worst and best of times. Here's the story:<br />
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I spent the week working in Phoenix trying to acclimate to the heat by driving around with my windows rolled up in business clothes and going out for mid-day runs. The salt layer on my face is always a good conversation piece with my customers and wouldn't you know, I didn't get any business this trip. With it being so cold in Colorado I needed some sort of heat to increase my salt flow and although I knew it was too little too late, every little bit helps. I think back to my previous race in Utah where the temps hovered in the 20s and 30s all day, even with a mild year at ZG it was going to be a scorcher for me. <br />
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Lots of people whom I consider friends in the desert this year: James Bonnet, Mark Cosmos, Kevin Higgins, Jamil and Nick Coury, Jason Lutick, Ian Torrence, Paulette Zilmer, Dom Grossman, Mike Foote, Chris Price, Diane Finkel, and Brian Tinder. So my thoughts going in were "no matter how the race turned out it was worth every second to hang out with these folks". <br />
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The moon was out and the air very pleasant as Joe yelled "Go". I found Mike Foote and we chatted it up on our way to Geronimo (8) in a casual 1.17. Chris Price was out front with Mike, Dom, and myself trying to keep in under the hood. The trail up to this point is very tame in comparison to what was coming but apparently my memories were foggy as to how many rocks, twists and turns, and ups and downs really lie ahead. <br />
<br />
I pulled over and lost sight of Mike pretty quick and never saw him again. Looking at the splits, Chris had sped up and Mike was slowly catching. It's pretty much the same story with the trail up to Wash Park (17.5) and with nearly 3 hrs in the legs I was still feeling pretty good. It was shortly after the aid station that James Bonnet caught me and really looked smooth going down the technical descents. I was going to latch on but then sure enough I rolled my ankle pretty good. So I slowed up and James was out of sight in no time. Up to this point I had fallen twice and rolled my ankle and with the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manzanita">Manzanita bushes</a> starting to carve there work into my legs, I looked beat up going into Hell's Gate (23.6).<br />
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Hell's Gate is apply named because the trail is the toughest trail I've ever run. You have to run Zane Grey to understand what I'm talking about; it's hot, exposed, up and down, twisting, rock, roots, bushes, you name it and this trail has it. And just as the name suggests I started feeling it. Basically for 10 myles it does not quit and this hellish place was sucking every bit of energy. I was dizzy and stumbling on rocks and every hill was a death march. I continued to eat and drink hoping the energy would return. I pull into Fish Hatchery (33) trying to put on my best smiley face but deep down I knew things were not good. As I left the aid station I could have sworn I saw a naked man running down the trail. I stopped, rubbed my eyes, and sure enough there was a naked man running down the trail asking me which way to go!! I laughed so hard! It was Brian Tinder and exactly what I needed at that point. The image still haunts me today but it's good payback. At Western States 3 years ago we were both pacing (Josh Brimhall and Ian Torrence) and I took off all my clothes as they rounded a corner and started running. It gave us all a laugh and boosted our spirits so Brian paid me back and lifted my spirits when I needed it the most. You're awesome Brian!<br />
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It didn't last long because there was another exposed climb and my conditions were deteriorating quickly. Now I started cramping everywhere. I had a second bottle now but within 30 minutes of leaving the aid station I had already drained one. To add insult to injury I took a wrong turn. I took a left and started heading up to the rim and it didn't feel right but what kept me going was a set of footprints. The trail started to fizzle out, I stopped and looked around but was totally confused at what I should do. It was probably about 10 minutes that I had gone up and finally made the decision to go back the way I came. When I got back to a junction a man was standing there asking how far up I had gone and if I'd seen anyone else. I told him I was following some footprints but didn't see anyone. Turns out Chris Price had gone up that same trail about double my time and the radio people had seen us make a wrong turn. Chris came by me later and asked why I hadn't waited for him... I was totally out of it and couldn't even remember his name to respond. <br />
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After that point the trail actually gets better with a bunch of trees for cover. People were starting to catch me and I had no idea how many people passed me while I was off trail but at this point I was far beyond trying to race. I just wanted to be done and drink some beer. I pull into See Canyon (43.5) and Ben is there (Diana Finkel's significant other) and he gives me this look like "you should stay here a while". My face, arms, and legs were crusted with white from the salt. Brian Tinder was pacing Kerrie and had brought me back a bottle of water prior to the aid station because I was completely out. I was dizzy at See Canyon and sat for a bit but I just wanted to get this over with, and besides, sitting down only made my cramps worse. So I got out of there and basically walked it in. My split to the finish was 1.39... I'd say that pretty good for walking. <br />
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Tough day in the desert. But what made it all worthwhile were the friends I mentioned in the beginning. It took me about an hour after the race before I could actually socialize and once I did Justin Lutick had plenty of beer to rehydrate every single person in the race. Special thanks to Dom and Katie for giving me a ride to the start, Chris Price for giving me a ride home, and Justin for, well, just being Justin. Big congrats to James Bonnet for winning Zane Grey! I don't know if I'll be back because Zane has kicked my ass twice now and I'm too old for a good ass whooping anymore. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-27875791439294146962013-03-31T22:28:00.000-06:002013-04-03T07:49:10.949-06:00Buffalo Run 50 - 1st 6.24A successful first race of 2013.<br />
<br />
Nutrition, training, and Hulk Juice were they keys to a successful day on the island. <br />
<br />
Leading up to the Buffalo Run I felt like I had dialed in my training by integrating tempo and metabolic efficiency runs into my weekly routine. But I also knew I had to race exactly like I trained, something in the 7:30/mile range was well within my reach.<br />
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The morning was very cold to start but like many times before I knew I'd warm up as long as I kept moving at a good clip. As I stripped off my final layer of warm clothes at the car I heard Jim yell "GO" and just chuckled as I sprinted toward the start. I was only about 20 seconds late so I hustled through the pack to the front. Already there was a light bobbing way up ahead the first hill and based on my breathing I knew I shouldn't chase. I actually felt kind of funky before the race and through the first 10 myles, just seemed like I was working way too hard to maintain a 7:45 pace. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FSMizdvtL18/UVlxjGel96I/AAAAAAAACw0/OXFIV9thcsM/s1600/Buffalo+run+sky.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FSMizdvtL18/UVlxjGel96I/AAAAAAAACw0/OXFIV9thcsM/s400/Buffalo+run+sky.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Threw this picture in because Nicole snapped a good Juan</td></tr>
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Even though I was working harder than I wanted early on, I also reminded myself that all the 3500+ climbing is done in the first 15 myles of the race. So I finally settled in around mile 8 as I started the split rock loop and light from the sun started to expose the landscape. I let gravity take me downhill and felt very comfortable with a 6:11 mile and that took my average/mile back down below 7:40. I had one water bottle with me, filled with 1/2 flask of EFS LS and then another flask tucked in my shorts. A total of 600 calories for the first 20 myles, which ended up being around 250 calories/hour - exactly like training. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fcryw7rHz-I/UVlxjSWeWqI/AAAAAAAACw4/5PnUghmCVu4/s1600/Nick+P+pointing.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fcryw7rHz-I/UVlxjSWeWqI/AAAAAAAACw4/5PnUghmCVu4/s400/Nick+P+pointing.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nick Pedatella telling me to jump in the lake if a Buffalo chases me</td></tr>
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I came through the start/finish area and I noticed the fellow in front of me was coming back, little by little. I didn't speed up, just maintained, and by the time we hit 20 myles he was behind me. With the hills behind me I concentrated on getting my average per mile closer to 7:30... 7:31, 7:25, 7:22, the miles started ticking away and surprisingly I was feeling stronger. I ended up going through the first half of the race in 3.11 and just hoped I could maintain. Only problem was that I was going with the wind through Lower Frary on my way to the Ranch and knew coming back into the wind would not be fun. <br />
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Finally at the Ranch aid station, my father in law helped me with my drop bag in which I had a special potion called "<a href="http://firstendurance.com/sports/triathlon/cameron-dye/">Hulk Juice</a>". I poached this recipe from Cameron Dye and had tried it a few times in training. 1 scoop Pre-Race, 1 scoop EFS Grape, 1/2 flask EFS LS Berry, and the rest water. I wouldn't say it makes running late in a race <i>easy</i> but it helps me focus and get into a rhythm. I feel like I can push harder and dig deeper. Even though I did not look forward to going back into the wind I had a chance to see where everyone else was at. My best guess was that I was about 12 minutes ahead of second place at mile 34. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XTwRxJ97oL8/UVlwqwQVPaI/AAAAAAAACwY/Y6IG7HstbtI/s1600/Buffalo+Run+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XTwRxJ97oL8/UVlwqwQVPaI/AAAAAAAACwY/Y6IG7HstbtI/s400/Buffalo+Run+6.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming back with the Hulk Juice starting to kick in</td></tr>
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Knowing that gap made me push harder. And with the Hulk juice starting to do its work I was maintaining my pace into the wind: 7:45, 7:31, 7:34, 7:26... Although I knew my work was still cut out for me because I had made a bet with Karl - best 50 mile time +15 minutes to Karl. I knew he put down a 6:30 something but not sure on the exact number during the race. At any rate, I knew I was cutting it close. <br />
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Rick had been following me around the backside offering support and then my wife and kids showed up to cheer me on. Then I came around to the front side of the island and saw my parents with my brother - man this was like home field advantage for me. I was motivated all the way around the island and never once did I bonk or get low on energy. But deep down I had to get that dreaded monkey off my back from the last time I ran this race (I took a couple wrong turns and lost the race with a 1/2 mile to go). Not this time. 6.24:19, 7:41 avg - a 50 mile PR for me by 20 seconds. Second 1/2 split was 3:13 so I was pretty steady all day. btw - I ended up losing the bet to Karl by 3 minutes. <a href="http://strideracing.com/2013/march/buffalorun.html">Race Results</a>. <a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/290451285">My Garmin</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gufzm92B6Js/UVlwqyrg7LI/AAAAAAAACwU/3Ob6HgyiwCc/s1600/Buffalo+Run+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gufzm92B6Js/UVlwqyrg7LI/AAAAAAAACwU/3Ob6HgyiwCc/s400/Buffalo+Run+9.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up the fence line to the finish</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MFBjqGncthk/UVlwrf8kKxI/AAAAAAAACwc/S-hLRtsghEk/s1600/Buffalo+Run+finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MFBjqGncthk/UVlwrf8kKxI/AAAAAAAACwc/S-hLRtsghEk/s400/Buffalo+Run+finish.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little fist pump as I yelled "No wrong turns"</td></tr>
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Couldn't be happier with this result. I feel my nutrition for the past 3 months played a huge roll in how I felt late into the race, concentrating more on nutrient dense food as opposed to carbohydrate dense foods. Coupled with metabolic efficiency training and, of course, Hulk Juice - this race was a success. And if it couldn't get any better, I sat around with a group of friends afterwards and shared a bunch of beers and stories. <br />
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Thanks, as always, to my family and extended family for their love and support.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-noSBHknMgPs/UVlxiigqlmI/AAAAAAAACww/qeqpcmKcchk/s1600/Buffalo+Jaxon+and+I.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-noSBHknMgPs/UVlxiigqlmI/AAAAAAAACww/qeqpcmKcchk/s400/Buffalo+Jaxon+and+I.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jaxon and I at the finish with Myles purple hat at the bottom</td></tr>
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Here is my nutriton for the race:<br />
2 EFS Liquid Shot flasks - 1/2 flask diluted in 20 oz of water x 4<br />
2 EFS Liquid Shot flasks - full strength (nipping every 15 minutes in conjunction with water bottles)<br />
1 bottle of Hulk Juice - 1 scoop Pre Race, 1/2 flask EFS LS berry, 1 scoop grape EFS + water<br />
handful of bananas<br />
Ultragen post race<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-48348057760633624572013-03-21T08:17:00.001-06:002013-03-21T08:27:27.377-06:00Racing againThe last time I toed the line was at UROC 100K last September. I can tell you without a shadow of doubt that I was not in the right place mentally and physically to be there. But like most athletes I love to compete and could not turn down an invitation to race on the East coast. <br />
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Fast forward 6 months and I am here, ready to compete. Physically and mentally. I took the better part of those 6 months making my core stronger and didn't force any training. I wanted it to be "organic", as some people would say, and run what felt good. I have skied more than 30 days this year, skate skied a dozen times, and did my core routine every morning. The cross training been refreshing to say the least. <br />
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January is when I really started to pick up more of a running routine by adding two tempo runs each week along side my metabolic efficiency run and tempering each with a heart rate monitor. But most important were those easy/recovery runs in between where nothing mattered except breathing, pumping the blood, and pumping GodSmack into the brain. <br />
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What I've seen is my heart rate go down while my pace picked up. Here's an example: My metabolic efficiency run consisted of a 15 mile trail run -1200 ft of climbing- with no calories in my system and only 90 calories (in the form of EFS drink) during the run while keeping the heart rate around 140 bpm. Here is the progression:<br />
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<ul>
<li>January 7th - 8:21 pace (avg 140 bpm)</li>
<li>January 16th - 8:20 pace (avg 140 bpm)</li>
<li>February 1st - 7:59 pace (avg 137 bpm)</li>
<li>March 18th - 7:45 pace (avg 139 bpm) </li>
</ul>
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One important thing to point out about these numbers is that once I incorporated tempo stuff twice a week (2nd week in January), I became more efficient at a faster pace while the heart worked at the same rate. Common sense. I believe in speed work for ultra runners. I don't like to be hooked up to the gadgets but I've become used to it and feel I am training smarter, not harder, because of it. Over the past 3 month build up to The Buffalo Run I have been able to put in 740 myles (Jan 245, Feb 305, Mar 190) and continually feel stronger. I firmly believe this has everything to do with my off season strengthening as well as balancing easy and hard workouts. </div>
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My goal was to be able to run a 7:20 pace for 5 hours leading up to this race while keeping the HR under 150. I didn't quite get there but I did put down a 7:24 pace for 4.40 with HR of 148 - almost! SO if I stay within my limits on Saturday I know I will lay down a good time. Not gonna make a prediction because if I do then mother nature will lay down something nasty of its own. </div>
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<i>HUMRs will be in full force Saturday</i></div>
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I look forward to seeing all my friends and sharing a few beers! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-87262804711074812222013-02-18T18:18:00.001-07:002013-02-19T07:46:22.718-07:00The Body-Training-NutritionIt's a new year -and hopefully- a new version of me. <br />
<br />
I didn't quite make it through last year with two DNF's (which doubled my lifetime total) but for some reason the mind kept pressing on while the body disintegrated. I've been running trail ultra's for 10 years now, accumulating 24,704 myles while making it to the finish line at 64 ultras - something eventually had to give. Whether it was the mind or body, it was hard for me to take a step back and not do something I truly love. <br />
<br />
<b><u>The Body</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
Last October I decided to take that <i>step back</i> to put everything back together and re-evaluate my passions. I ran a total of 628 myles in 3 months and only ran when I wanted to and only if the body had allowed me to enjoy it. Rewinding to the beginning of last year, my job had me traveling quite a bit but I still wanted to maintain a race a month so the only way to do that was to race myself into shape. I picked 4 - 50 mile races in a span of 8 weeks and paid the price with shin splints. Doesn't sound too bad but since shin splints were the very thing that almost made me quit the Colorado Trail back in 2009, I had to let them heal or miss out on Hardrock. Next up was the lower back that I had been "putting up with" on and off for the past two years. If I would have just looked at the tread wear on my shoes I would have seen that my stride was not symmetrical. I was wearing through the tread on my left outside soul within two weeks. The PT in October told me I had a proximal rotated hip which caused my SI joint to cease up on the left side. Cindy Stonesmith fixed me up during Leadville this year but my non-symmetrical stride put the hip rotated again before I hit Winfield, resulting in a <a href="http://teamfasteddy-fasted.blogspot.com/2012/08/leadville.html">DQMITTFL</a>. I did, however, manage to finish UROC 100K in Virginia afterwards but I did so only to get the sour taste out of mouth and because it was relatively flat on even running surfaces. <br />
<br />
From October through December of last year I concentrated on core work every day. One of the books I purchased was <a href="http://triathletetrainer.com/runwithnopain/UpdatedBook/RunWithNoPain.pdf">Run with No Pain</a> by <a href="http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/">Ben Greenfield</a> , which had me doing very specific one sided resistance and stretches. The pain slowly went away and with a little maintenance I am now relatively pain free. <br />
<br />
<b><u>Training</u></b><br />
<br />
In January I put in 245 myles with another 40 on the skate skis for some cross training. I can't confirm this but I feel the skate skiing complimented the core work I was doing to straighten out my hip. My approach to training has taken a little twist as well. I have taken things I have learned from coaches I have had and combined them with nutrition. More on nutrition in the next paragraph. January training has been a base building month by using a heart rate monitor. I used the first 3 weeks with nothing over 150 bpm. Then for the last 3 weeks I integrated some tempo work twice a week in the range of 160-170 bpm. One workout designed as an LT (mile repeats) and one as a tempo (10 mile @ mp) each week, alternating weeks with flat and hills. Here is an example:<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 387px;">
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<col span="2" style="width: 65pt;" width="65"></col>
<col style="mso-width-alt: 5034; mso-width-source: userset; width: 118pt;" width="118"></col>
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<td class="xl63" height="15" style="height: 15.0pt; width: 74pt;" width="74"><b>Flat week</b></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; width: 65pt;" width="65"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; width: 65pt;" width="65"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; width: 118pt;" width="118"><b>Hill week</b></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; width: 65pt;" width="65"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;">Monday</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">2+ hrs</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">Long run </td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">3+ hr</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">Long run</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;">Tuesday</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">1.5 hrs</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">recovery</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">1+ hr</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">recovery</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;">Wednesday</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">4 x 1mile</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">LT run</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">10 x 1 min (7%)</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">LT run</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;">Thursday</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">1.5 hrs</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">recovery</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">1+ hr</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">recovery</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;">Friday</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">10 mile</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">Tempo</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">2 x 20 min
(undulating) </td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">Tempo</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;">Saturday</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">1 hr</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">recovery</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">2+ hrs</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">recovery</td>
</tr>
<tr height="15" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td class="xl63" height="15" style="border-top: none; height: 15.0pt;">Sunday</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">off</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"></td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">1 hr</td>
<td class="xl63" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;">recovery</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This schedule has been giving me about 70 myles and 10+ hrs on the feet. Little by little I have been watching my HR drop with the same perceived effort during those long runs. For instance, in the beginning I averaged 145 bpm with a pace around 8:20 on a course that offers 1200 ft of climbing over 15 myles. Now the pace has dropped to 8:00 with the same average. As I get past The Buffalo 50 mile race I will drop the flat week and go strictly on the hill week to get ready for Hardrock and other 'hilly' 50 mile races. Here's a profile my <a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/275071753">most recent run</a> to show where my fitness is at right now. Getting fit.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Nutrition</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
As some of you might know every year I give up a food that I really love and is really bad for me. This year it's bread. I also gave up coffee last September so the "Bakery and Espresso shops" are a sinful place. At any rate, I'm trying to teach my body to rely more on nutrient dense foods as opposed to carbohydrate dense foods. I have never been a good eater and always find myself gravitating to the sweets, pastas, and breads because they satiate me most. Call it a high carbohydrate craving that needs to come down. Truth be told there is a real chemical dependence here with serotonin but I won't get into it. <br />
<br />
In the October 2012 issue of Ultrarunning, Sunny Blende wrote an article entitled "<a href="http://www.eat4fitness.com/articles/Metabolic_Efficiency_Training.pdf">Metabolic Efficiency - Becoming A Better-Butter-Burner</a>" and a light bulb went off in my head. I thought "<i>I'm a carb-whore and that's what I burn, when it's gone so is my energy." </i>Then I <a href="http://youtu.be/97q1YCXmM9c">watched this</a> and read "<a href="http://www.runnersworld.co.za/nutrition/novel-dietary-ideas/">High Fat/Low Carbohydrate</a>" by Tim Noakes. And the last piece of influence, First Endurance has a <a href="http://team.firstendurance.com/page/low-carbo-training-1">great article</a> on how to implement a low carb diet into training and racing. Ultimately I am trying to teach my body to become more efficient, and by "efficient" I mean burn fat. I honestly feel I will be better off in the late stages of 100 mile race and I will be healthier because of my eating habits. <br />
<br />
Will this work or is this a bunch of mumbo-jumbo? I don't know but I'm willing to give it a try and have been doing so since the beginning of the year. I believe there is real substance here and with all the processed food here in America, it's time to train my body to reacquant itself with nutritious based food and less carbohydrate dense food. <br />
<br />
If you care to remember anything from this post, remember this "You will never out-train a bad diet"Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-81131185562647094032013-02-05T17:08:00.000-07:002013-02-05T19:42:51.968-07:00Pearl Izumi 2013<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Not sure why I decided to put up a blogpost because for all intents and purposes, this thing is dead. I've come to the computer several times over the past year to shut it down but just don't have the heart. There is some good content on here and I find myself referring back to see what my fitness was like in any one month. When I started the blog it was to log my workouts so friends and family could keep tabs on my fitness. But now there are so many other avenues to log workouts on the computer, I just don't see the utility anymore. Not to mention brevity is key, and with such media venues as <a href="https://twitter.com/mexiFast">Twitter</a> and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Mexifast">Facebook</a> the blog becomes a thing of the past. But for the sake of tradition I'll blog about important stuff and link it to my FB and Twitter accounts.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There has been talk about the Pearl Izumi Ultra running team folding. Why would PI do such a thing when the attention was at an all time high, not to mention the launching of a new shoe line: E:Motion? I'll put all rumors to rest by saying that the PI Ultra running team did not fold, it just changed shape. Here is an official statement from the PI headquarters:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<i style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">“We have decided to aggressively expand our trail and ultra presence in 2012 through a program called Team PI which is a grassroots program developed in concert with our rep and retailers. In 2012 Team PI grew to 55-60 athletes across the country . This proved so successful that in 2013 that we want to grow that program to 250 members of the running community many who are a part of the trail and ultra community. Growing this program from the ground up awards many athletes a chance to be a part of PI and brings us brand awareness across the country. There is also a direct tie to retailers. The expanded Team PI is an evolution of the concept started with the elite team and is intended to support the program with a broad base and a few highly visible athletes. We are aggressively evaluating new athletes for 2013 so, visit our facebook page to find out if a Team PI program exists in your territory and to learn more.”</span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><br /></i>
7 years ago when <a href="http://leavenothing-manners.blogspot.com/">Aric Manning</a>, myself, and Bob Africa met for the first time in Moab to discuss the Pearl Izumi Ultra running team, it was by meer coincidence. Aric had branded some Pearl Izumi shirts with the Smith logo for me and we were looking for additional sponsors to fully outfit a team. I just so happened to be running with Bob Africa during Moab Red Hot 55K and he noticed my Peak I Pearl Izumi running shoes and started asking how I liked the shoes. I began to tell my story as to why I love PI. Little did I know Bob actually worked for PI and designed the very shoes I was wearing. The rest is history. The one thing I remember is that we all agreed that we wanted a small group of talented runners who loved to be on the race scene, hang out afterwards and have a beer together. A group that genuinely was fun-loving. I feel we accomplished that over the years. But we all know nothing lasts forever and as business' morph so do areas of focus and marketing strategies. So I say to Aric Manning and all those runners who flew the PI flag - thank you for making the team and Pearl Izumi products what they are today. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Moving into 2013 I will once again fly the PI flag and hopefully it will be a year to remember in the racing and adventure department. I am no spring chicken anymore but every time I see <a href="http://karlmeltzer.com/">Karl Meltzer</a> take down another 100 mile race, I'm inspired. So we will see what the pins have left in them. Here is my 2013 schedule:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
Buffalo Run 50 - March 23rd</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Zane Gray 50 - April 27th</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">PCT 50 - May 11th</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Jemez 50 - May 25th</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Hardrock 100m - July 12th</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Colorado Trail - August 6th-13th (more to come on this juan)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
Here's to 2013 and health!</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NbeFksTOOEg/URGeTYADtsI/AAAAAAAACt0/xO00TrwWhKw/s1600/IMG_0682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NbeFksTOOEg/URGeTYADtsI/AAAAAAAACt0/xO00TrwWhKw/s320/IMG_0682.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-87645089396820086272012-10-01T11:07:00.000-06:002012-10-02T09:21:10.609-06:00UROC 100k - 9.38 12thGoing into UROC I knew my body wasn't 100%, but I also knew I'm as fit as I've been all year. So I took a huge risk racing knowing that my previous race (Leadville) resulted in a DQMITTFL. Above all, I wanted to end my year on positive note. Here's how the weekend went:<br />
<br />
Traveling to Charlottesville was quite the adventure with a huge delay in Denver that caused a missed connection flight. I ended up renting a car from DC to Charlottesville and driving through a horrendous rain storm that ultimately would delay any incoming flights to Charlottesville. It all worked out though as I met up with Rosemary and <a href="http://elliegreenwood.blogspot.com/">Ellie</a> in Charlottesville airport. Already 10:30 PM, I was was ready for the bed. Turns out we would wait until 1:30 AM for our travel partners, <a href="http://irunmountains.blogspot.com/">Nick Clark</a>, Jorge Maravilla and my luggage. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7EM5kbKGg9s/UGmyhbb_FqI/AAAAAAAACrQ/2lDG7qdBGXk/s1600/the+crew.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7EM5kbKGg9s/UGmyhbb_FqI/AAAAAAAACrQ/2lDG7qdBGXk/s320/the+crew.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Traveling partners to Wintergreen resort<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
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</tbody></table>
Finally arrived at our house in the Wintergreen resort just after 2:30 AM. A very nice house, I might add. My roommates: Bryon and Meagan of <a href="http://www.irunfar.com/">iRunFar</a>, <a href="http://sharmanian.blogspot.com/">Ian Sharman</a>, Jorge Maravilla, and Jordan McDougal. Having had a good nights rest, Friday was all about lounging around and race check in. Gill and Francesca did an amazing job organizing this event as we did pre-race interviews and later that evening a panel discussion. Lot's of work to organize but the result is what we all look for in an ultra event - camaraderie. <br />
<br />
Race day morning I was feeling very optimistic in terms of having a steady day. Notice I didn't say "fast". The sciatica I have been experiencing has really limited me in doing any resemblance of speed work so I would have to rely on consistency throughout the race. Right from the gun I settled into the back of the pack as we shot down (2800ft) a very rocky and slippery 3 mile trail. I was really surprised how fast I lost sight of 20 guys but I really was in good company with Ellie by my side. At the bottom 20 guys came running back, as they had taken a wrong turn and lost a couple of minutes. Ellie and I benefited and quickly joined them on the climb back up. Once we started to go back up, I began to feel very comfortable and rapidly made contact with the top 10. <i>If only I could have more of this climbing today I would be OK, </i>I thought. We transitioned back to the road and then back to the trail and so goes the back and forth sporadically throughout the day. <br />
<br />
Wintergreen resort sits on top of a hill so there is a 3 mile/1000+ft descent to get to the Blue Ridge Pkwy (BRP). This being the second big descent my quads were already quivering in weakness. I was really nervous as we started on the BRP but pleasantly surprised as I got into cruise mode. Cruise mode for me turned out to be around 7:30/8 pace and I think for the most part I was maintaining my position. Nearing the turn around Ellie caught me and rapidly went by at least 20 sec/mile faster. So much for maintaining huh? I actually felt good coming off the road as we approached the Whetstone aid (32 myles) and the beginning of 8 myles of trail. <br />
<br />
Going into the race I had tinkered with my diet, primarily going gluten, coffee, and processed sugar free for a month. I had a feeling that as much coffee as I've been drinking that I may have been taxing my adrenal glands and thus had nothing to tap into late in a race. Sluggish every morning? Yes. So as I took my first cups of Mountain Dew at Whetstone I was buzzing, coupled with the fact I was on some beautiful single track. Its almost as if a light had been switched on and I was in "hunting mode". As I commented to iRunFar "the trail has awakened MexiFast!"<br />
<br />
Still no speed, yet steady, coming back on the BRP but I had a sense that I would be catching a few people. Up through mile 48 I had only caught up with Dominic Grossman at the aid station. Seeing him on the road it appeared we were running identical pace so I thought we could help each other. Dr. David Horton was my crew and it always was a pleasure to see him on the course, having him give me aid and updates. Thank you David! Next up would be Frank Gonzales but on the long stretches of the BRP I was not catching sight of anyone. A little demoralizing but I was still motivated to finish strong. <br />
<br />
Finally to the last aid station, Reeds Gap (mile 59). Meagan (iRunFar) was there and she conducted a little "on the run" interview. Always gives me a boost to see Bryon and Meagan out on the course. So I charged up the final 3 mile/1000ft climb and ran nearly all of it. Energy was good all day, not really any down spots. I felt the best while I was climbing and being able to run the last hill after 9 hours really made me feel satisfied with a 9.38 12th place finish. <br />
<br />
Not only have I been tinkering with my diet but my race day nutrition as well. I realize nutrition and hydration is very individualistic but for me here is what gave me good energy all day: 3 First Endurance <a href="https://www.firstendurance.com/nutrition/efs-liquid-shot.html">EFS liquid shots - Kona Mocha</a>, 2.5 oz (200 calories) diluted down into a 20 oz water bottle. Each bottle lasts about an hours and 1/2. In addition, I carry two EFS liquid shot flasks and take a nip at each full strength every 45 minutes. I realized the full strength concentration was too much for my stomach to handle for extended periods of time so this diluted version did not mess with my stomach and gave me great -even keel- energy all day. I also grabbed a handful of boiled potatoes at every aid station and would continually put them in my mouth to have something to chew on. Last, I added Mountain Dew and Coke at about the 40 mile mark for the extra jolt of energy. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0DrXg3HDmC8/UGsF7hSHR2I/AAAAAAAACrk/UmWB0CReESk/s1600/Finish+with+beer.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0DrXg3HDmC8/UGsF7hSHR2I/AAAAAAAACrk/UmWB0CReESk/s320/Finish+with+beer.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NOT gluten free beer. Fat Tire all the way from Colorado</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Great way to end the season. I am very pleased with the result. My legs are incredibly sore today but well worth it. Thanks to Gill, Francesca, Rosemary, and David Horton for all of their wonderful support! The last night made every bit of the race come together as we had burgers and beer with the AJW family, Scott McCoubrey, iRunFar, and few runners - all of whom I consider great friends. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-61971647556559143622012-08-19T17:57:00.003-06:002012-08-21T07:58:39.155-06:00Leadville....Shit.Damn.Hell.<br />
<br />
DNF is such a harsh term. It makes me cringe every time I say it so I'm going with a new term -DQMITHFL. <b>D</b>idn't <b>Q</b>uite <b>M</b>ake <b>I</b>t <b>T</b>o <b>T</b>he <b>F</b>inish <b>L</b>ine. I did make it, however, I was assisted by a vehicle with my wristband cut off. I am more bummed for my crew and pacer than I am for myself because they spent the day at Twin Lakes supporting me. <br />
<br />
Not much to really elaborate on so I will be brief:<br />
<br />
Since Hardrock (5 weeks ago) I put in about 250 myles with an entire week off and a taper week included. With those myles I have been battling lower left back pain (don't want to self diagnose myself here but would appear to be Sciatica). Yeah it causes me to limp but for some reason I thought it would go away the longer I ran. <br />
<br />
Right from the gun I felt it but no different than the previous weeks so I plodded along with optimism. I got to May Queen in pretty good time (1.44) but with no up or down, I had not really challenged the back. Up onto the Colorado Trail, up and over Sugar loaf, and into Fish Hatchery (3.21) my stride became altered but once back onto the flats it seemed to be tolerable. I cruised the road pretty good and thought I could deal with it but then we hit the Colorado Trail again with some climbing and rolling hills. Sure enough it started to hurt a little more. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DWXon30LN3o/UDOTjigDmfI/AAAAAAAACq4/1jDo1Eui0_M/s1600/Photo-10-Meghan-M.-Hicks-photo-credit.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DWXon30LN3o/UDOTjigDmfI/AAAAAAAACq4/1jDo1Eui0_M/s320/Photo-10-Meghan-M.-Hicks-photo-credit.jpeg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving Fish Hatch with Jason Ostrom and Lucho</td></tr>
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I had every intention of dropping at Twin Lakes (5.54) but as my crew looked on while I rolled my back on a tennis ball (ala Nick Pedatella), I needed to make an attempt to get over Hope Pass. The tennis ball was painful but it seemed to help so kept going over it. Then my savior, <a href="http://www.ultrarunnertraining.com/cindy-stonesmith/">Cindy Stonesmith</a> (massage therapist), came over and really worked on me for the next 30 minutes. I hate to admit it but she brought a little tear to my eye as she dug in there with her elbow, working my back and hip flexor. She eventually made something in my foot pop, I have no idea what the correlation is but it seemed to release something and I was relatively better. <br />
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I left Twin Lakes just under 7 hours into the race and I hiked up Hope Pass really smooth. Leaning forward with my hands on my knees seem to the do the trick. Down the back side of Hope and onto the new section of trail all was going smooth but the tightness returned on the left side going into Winfield (9.30). Nick Pedatella was over there and he really tried to give me another work over but the longer I sat the tighter the back got. Snipped off the wrist band and rode back to Twin Lakes with <a href="http://brandon.fuller.name/blog/">Brandon Fullers</a> crew. <br />
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To be honest, I was embarrassed to walk up the street at Twin Lakes licking my wounds and telling people my sob story. I saw the look in their eyes "you look fine, WTF?" And that's the tough thing is that my spirits and energy were good and positive all day, even after 50 myles. So as I walked up the street the Patricks (Garcia and Stewart) each came up offering a full beer. Thanks guys, you know me well! <br />
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To my crew: Nicole and my boys, Mom and Dad, Rick, to my solitary pacer Scott Tucker, Nick Pedatella, and to Cindy Stonesmith - Thank you for supporting me. It's never an easy decision to call it a day but I figure the longer I do this, it's inevitable this happen every once in a while. Better days to come!<br />
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Some amazing performances out there: Of course everyone who finished but in particular my PI teammates <a href="http://irunmountains.blogspot.com/">Nick</a> and Ashley for pulling down the number 3 positions and <a href="http://www.darcypiceuafrica.com/Lifes_Ultra_Journey/Lifes_Ultra_Journey.html">Darcy</a> for cranking out yet another 100 mile to keep the Rocky Mountain Slam alive. In addition, the Leadman race was outstanding, Lucho and Troy battled to within minutes of the title with Lucho pulling it out as Leadman champion and new record holder - Amazing! <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-24687727325537107572012-07-23T08:51:00.000-06:002012-07-24T18:19:34.263-06:00Hardrock 100 - 28.37 6th<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HS-d4-uDUb4/UA28ET5wNlI/AAAAAAAACpo/qRW0fj4QxHA/s1600/Start+of+HR+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HS-d4-uDUb4/UA28ET5wNlI/AAAAAAAACpo/qRW0fj4QxHA/s400/Start+of+HR+2012.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Start of HR 2012 - photo Fred Marmsater</i></div>
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First and foremost I need to say thank you to my wife and family! The journey leading up to HR is never possible without my wife to support me in every decision we make around HR. And that includes spending all our vacation time in Silverton, Colorado. It's never "No" but "let's see how we can work this out" Thank you Nicole! 1 month in Silverton is not easy. Thank you Jaxon and Myles for understanding (trying anyways) to know what this HR thing is all about. Thank you to my In Laws who love Hardrock as much -or even more- than I do. Thank you to the Darnold's for the their continued support. And last, thank you to my Dad, brother, and nephew for coming to see this crazy thing we do. I hope the San Juans have left an impression of inspiration on you like they have for me over the past 6 years. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZF1QLxRmMg0/UA1dPufG0lI/AAAAAAAACo8/pQQ0-xvfC88/s1600/Grant+peak+irunfar.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZF1QLxRmMg0/UA1dPufG0lI/AAAAAAAACo8/pQQ0-xvfC88/s400/Grant+peak+irunfar.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Is there any wonder why we run Hardrock? photo - irunfar</i></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9soUPc43eAE/UA1dlm_BS6I/AAAAAAAACpc/J2t_BiN4o9E/s1600/Nicole+Dakota.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9soUPc43eAE/UA1dlm_BS6I/AAAAAAAACpc/J2t_BiN4o9E/s400/Nicole+Dakota.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Nicole and her new friend after hanging out a month in Silverton</i></div>
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<i>(she is not a DG)</i></div>
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<i>Run your race---Be smart---Run within your limits... </i>That's what was engrained in my skull the days leading up to the race. The last time I ran this race I blew up. I remember it like it was yesterday so I wasn't going to let it happen again. I've trained too hard for the past two months to let my race distintegrate in the matter of a few hours. This is 100 myles and the one who is patient yet persistant will have a great day. I wanted to hunt as opposed to survive the last 30 myles. Here's how it went:<br />
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<b>Start - KT (2.27) 11.5 myles</b><br />
I knew Karl wasn't going out fast so I figured if I stayed with him through Telluride, I would be keeping it "under the hood". A group of about 6 of us climbed steadily towards the Putnam basin, not a constant run but rather a run/hike, whatever felt natural. There was a lot of chatter and joking going on and also many statements of how lucky we really are to be enjoying this day in the San Juans with such a good group of friends. None of us felt like we were working and as we approached the KT aid station road we knew we were a little fast but because it felt <i>easy</i> so we just kept rolling along at that pace. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tetmBIzeMVc/UA1cKmneo8I/AAAAAAAACos/IPzean7kG1w/s1600/KT+train+irunfar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tetmBIzeMVc/UA1cKmneo8I/AAAAAAAACos/IPzean7kG1w/s400/KT+train+irunfar.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">Leaders at KT - Photo irunfar</i></div>
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<b>KT - Chapman (1.32) 18.9 myles</b><br />
Nicole, Rick, and the Darnold's hiked up from the South Mineral CG to give me some aid. Nicole quickly gave me my <a href="http://www.ultraspire.net/products/spry/">Ultraspire Spry vest</a> which contained an <a href="https://www.firstendurance.com/nutrition/efs-liquid-shot.html">EFS liquid shot</a> bottle (5 oz EFS LS + 15oz of water) tucked in the back, some boiled potatoes in the front pockets, and a light shell with gloves. My fueling system was perfect. While I had two handhelds, only one in hand while the other was tucked in the back pocket of the vest. When I was climbing for a while I would put the other bottle in the back of my shorts so I could use my hands to push on my lower thighs - that was a technique I picked up from the Euros last year at UTMB. <br />
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Up Grant Swamp we go. There was a little separation between myself, Dakota, Karl, and Nick as we trailed Hal, Timmy Parr, and Joe by about 400 yards. At the top I could not believe how many people had made the climb, at least 30 people taking pictures, ringing bells, and just overall energy. I bolted down the other side towards Chapman, going all the way to the right where the dirt was soft to get some good traction. Across the rock field, down into the trees, and into Chapman with Joe, Hal, and Dakota. It really did feel effortless up to this point but I questioned if it was too much. I certainly wasn't going to push it up Oscar's. <br />
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<b>Chapman - Telluride (2.25) 27.8 myles</b><br />
I tucked my bottle in my shorts and started to push on my lower thighs. Of the two previous training runs up Oscar's this was the best I had felt. I soon caught up with the 3 leaders and just marched on very steadily up the 8 or so switchbacks. The clouds had covered the sun so it was pleasant and not hot like I thought it would be. Up at the top there was another slew of people who brought more energy. I stopped to change bottles out of my vest and the top 3 were gone! It was at this point I realized I was getting caught up in it again and made the decision to run down to Telluride at a very mellow pace. Time to get refueled and let me body try to absorb some of the potatoes I was taking in. The climb out of Telluride always kicks me in the teeth so I wanted to save something for it. <br />
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I really felt great getting into Telluride. The energy was amazing! I saw my brother and that gave me a really good boost. He's never seen any of my races so I wanted to make a good impression. As my wife restocked my potatoes and ran out of the aid station with me I told her that I was doing everything in my power to slow down. I felt like I was crawling. It was kind of scary because even though I had gone an addition two myles (reroute) I was still within 15 minutes of my time last time through here. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GwvNE4v408M/UA1cR3g0tfI/AAAAAAAACo0/5Om79LoRERw/s1600/Oscar+smile+JM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GwvNE4v408M/UA1cR3g0tfI/AAAAAAAACo0/5Om79LoRERw/s400/Oscar+smile+JM.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<i>Starting up Oscar's - photo John Medinger</i></div>
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<b>Telluride - Kroegers (1.49) 32.8 myles</b><br />
There is no getting around the fact that the climb up to Kroegers is a kick in the teeth. I was climbing good and even running the flatter sections but once we clear the trees - it is just plain tough! As I cleared the trees it started raining pretty hard and I was soaked immediately. I kept eating the potatoes and sucking on my EFS bottle but the energy was leaving me pretty quick. I knew some of that had to do with the altitude so I wasn't worried too much. By the time I had entered Roch's cantina I was a bit woosy and they could see it in my eyes. I took my first coke and bolted down the other side. Both Karl and Nick were on my heels but I didn't mind because I knew they were good company. <br />
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<b>Kroegers - Governor Basin (0.32) 36 myles</b><br />
I was absolutely freezing on top of Kroegers but as soon as I got onto the road leading to camp bird I was pretty much dry and warm again. I didn't stop at Governor because I was in a groove and knew I should just maintain my pace so that I could get off the road as quickly as possible. <br />
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<b>Governor Basin - Ouray (1.09) 43.9 myles</b><br />
I ran the entire road. Shouldn't be such a big deal but the two previous times in this direction I couldn't run the road because I was starting to feel it. I knew I wasn't blazing but there were no doubts in my mind that the pace I was running was good. Shortly before I turned to go into Ouray, Karl and Timmy Parr caught me and were moving just a tad bit faster. Mentally and physically that was OK for me. Flashback to last time, I had a feeling that I needed to push to stay in front, even though I was suffering by the time I got to Ouray. I had to push harder than I ever had before. We all know the result so this year I was in a good place. Ironically as I pulled into the aid station, so did Diana Finkel. Almost the same spot as the previous time. Basically 10 hrs into the run now and I really do feel like I'm running a good race.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PzK3n3OjQMM/UA1dZDF-_WI/AAAAAAAACpM/ygeeCP8zc2E/s1600/Jaxon+advice+AW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PzK3n3OjQMM/UA1dZDF-_WI/AAAAAAAACpM/ygeeCP8zc2E/s400/Jaxon+advice+AW.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
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<i>Jaxon with some solid advice in Ouray - photo Alyssa Wideboer</i></div>
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<b>Ouray - Engineer (2.55) 51.5 myles</b><br />
Both times previous this climb has always been the worst. Something physiologically goes wrong on the climb to Engineer. I was certain that I escaped this time, but it was not to be. By the time I reached the "dinner plates" (4 myles out), I was dizzy and nausious. At about which time Jonathan Bashman passed me and offered assistance. I started shoving more potatoes and more EFS into my mouth as well as water. In fact, I left Ouray with two bottles and I had to dip into the stream at the first crossing before Engineer aid station. I was taking care of myself. I seemed to snap out of it within 30 minutes and I was even running the flatter stuff in the meadows leading into the aid station. At the aid station, I sat down and drank a coke and ate two cookies. I left with a positive state of mind that I would be making it to Grouse before dark. <br />
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<b>Engineer - Grouse (1.38) 58.4 myles</b><br />
There is only one part to this section that is real tough, and it's the last 400 meters getting to Engineer pass. This year some guy yelling "that's what I'm talking about" and his van was full of all sorts of goodness. But my the time I got to the top I was hurting and didn't even want to talk. Sorry dude. Now down the road for 5 myles to Grouse. All I kept thinking is "running is easy downhill". My whole goal was to run the entire road at a relaxed pace. Last time I was not able to run more than 5 minutes at a time and didn't reach Grouse till way after dark (without a headlamp).<br />
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Because I was way late last time, Dale Garland came up the road in his truck to check on me. It's always good to see Dale, even if I don't like chatting, Dale has a way of striking up conversation. It was a mental boost for me for sure. I rolled into Grouse 14 and 1/2 hours after I started and it was still light. Even though I wanted to use the daylight, I needed a little break to eat some pumpkin pie, soup broth, and more coke. It was also good to chat it up with those who were driving around these mountains to support me. By this time my EFS LS consumption was dwindling so my crew cut the concentration in 1/2 - 2.5 oz EFS LS to 18oz of water. I need the calories because between Ouray and Grouse (4.5 hrs) I only had a few potatoes and a couple cookies.<br />
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<b>Grouse - Sherman (4.21) 71.8 myles</b><br />
In my mind this is when I start to hunt. But as I climbing over to American Basin I would be a starving hunter... I felt like crap! I had to stop several times even before I crested the first climb. I turned my light on about a mile outside of Grouse. Down the valley I saw a string of better hunters and I was about to be dinner. I kept eating, I kept drinking, but I couldn't help but stop after about 10 minutes. Finally, Adam Wilcox caught me on the final ascent up Handies. I was dry heaving and freezing cold. Adam stopped to offer anything but I was trashed and beyond repair at that point. I just needed to rest for a good 5 minutes but I knew I would freeze before that. I pushed on and over the top where I rejoined Adam. I certainly was feeling better after I descended about thousand feet. <br />
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Now I was moving much better and started to get into a rhythm down to Burrows park. Midway down I caught a slowing Timmy Parr and his pacer Duncan Callahan. Hoping for Timmy to turn it around but it wasn't meant to be. Although I will say, Timmy toughed this one out and got his HR finish. Nice job Timmy! Down the road I go into Sherman, and again, I don't want to stop at all. All these roads are slightly down but this one feels uphill for some reason. At any rate, I run into Sherman with Jason Koop and Pete Stevenson. I need another break but both Jason and Adam barely stop. I ate pretty good at Sherman and 10 minutes later left with some good energy. My father in law Rick came over with Mindy Campbell so that was a boost of energy and confidence as well.<br />
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<b>Sherman - Pole Creek (3.10) 80.9 myles</b><br />
My spirits and energy are good despite being on my feet just over 19 hours. I climbed really well up cataract gulch, catching Jason Koop around 30 minutes into the climb. I could see two more sets of lights ahead so that gave me energy to push harder. As soon as I reached the top, I was right behind one set while another had slowly gained from behind. Ted Mahon and pacer passed me just as we started our descent into Pole Creek. I thought I was moving good -forward anyways- but Ted was moving great! I tried to stay attached but it was too much. I got into Pole Creek just after 4 AM and Ted had put 10 minutes on me. <br />
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I stayed at Pole Creek for about 10 minutes drinking coke and eating cookies. I was not in a hurry and really felt like I was coming into my own. I was confident as I left Pole Creek!<br />
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<b>Pole Creek - Maggie Gulch (1.25) 85.2 myles</b><br />
As I looked across the valley I could see 3 sets of lights. I started putting time checks in my mind which told me I was back into hunting mode. I was not looking behind at all. I ran most of the valley and then had to hike the climb to get up to the Colorado Trail. I turned my light off at the crest of the climb leading into Maggie. I was hurting but I was also gritting my teeth and wanted this to be over. As I rolled into Maggie I saw Ben and then I saw Diana! I couldn't believe it and was feeling bad for her. I know she would not have been there unless something was really wrong. She had such a fantastic race going but because of the Rhabdomyolisis symptoms, it was the right choice to stop. <br />
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I packed away all my night stuff, drank a coke, and ate some stuff. They offered me a "bacon and maple" roll but I was not at all intrigued by that combo. I have always had a good climb out of Maggie so I was hopeful I could catch a glimpse of someone to fuel my climb.<br />
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<b>Maggie Gulch - Cunningham (1.54) 91.3 myles</b><br />
The climb didn't go that smooth out of Maggie as I had to stop a few times but got sight of someone so I kept pressing. Up and over Buffalo Boy ridge and onto Green Mountain and I was slowly, but surely, reeling someone in. By the time we could see Cunningham aid station we were running together. Into the aid station, and again, I took my time. I ate more pumpkin pie and more coke. I emptied out my vest and took one water bottle over the Dives Little Giant climb. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Woja86uCJmY/UA1dTBG8MgI/AAAAAAAACpE/ZdyL-NRBJbo/s1600/Cunningham+irunfar.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Woja86uCJmY/UA1dTBG8MgI/AAAAAAAACpE/ZdyL-NRBJbo/s400/Cunningham+irunfar.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<i>Cunningham in hunt mode - photo irunfar</i></div>
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<b>Cunningham - Silverton (2.39) 102.1 myles</b><br />
All of that climbing goodness that I had in my legs had now suddenly left. I couldn't keep pace and had to rest every 10 minutes. Once I was near the top, Zeke Tiernan and James Bonnett came bolting by and it gave me reason to stop for a break. They gave me some good energy and decided I would try to run it all the way in. My time up to the top of the last climb was not good at all but once I started down I was moving really good. <br />
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Finally down the switchback road to the river where I caught up with Karl. He had been having a rough go trying to stay awake since Sherman. I offered to run it in together but he was having none of it. On the flat section coming in I had a renewed sense of energy so this section went by pretty quick. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-emhHfHyrD6U/UA87RxMP1BI/AAAAAAAACp0/6hKQ_Z-Ie4E/s1600/Finish.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-emhHfHyrD6U/UA87RxMP1BI/AAAAAAAACp0/6hKQ_Z-Ie4E/s320/Finish.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Representin' the gray hairs</i></div>
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<i>Eric and Dillon at the finish while Dad looks on</i></div>
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Sure I wanted the race to be over but when the awards are done, there is a certain emptiness that takes hold for the next few weeks. The Hardrock family gets into your blood and I can't wait to go back!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-89193297464865955782012-07-01T15:22:00.000-06:002012-07-01T19:24:52.299-06:00100,000Ascending 100,000 feet in the month of June was the goal. I have never been close to that number while preparing for Hardrock so why not give a go and see what happens. Result: 388 myles and 106,385 feet ascended for the month. Check.<br />
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So what does this mean at Hardrock? In terms of pain - nothing. In terms of confidence - everything. One of my favorite quotes by Dave Horton is "pain is inevitable, suffering is optional". In my mind, preparation forces the balance one way or the other. I know I've done my best work to prepare for this year. You know the song "everybody hurts" by R.E.M.? Hardrock 100 does that to every runner, and if not, then you're not pushing to give your best. Confidence is the key, especially during the second half of Hardrock which can flip the switch from survival mode to hunting mode. <br />
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The last time I ran Hardrock was two years ago, same direction (clockwise) as this year. <a href="http://teamfasteddy-fasted.blogspot.com/2010/07/hardrock-100-3117-11th-place.html">Reference this post</a> to find out what happened. I don't want to repeat that so my number one goal is to NOT be the first person to Ouray. I've won that race before, now it's time to be the fastest in the second half. Better yet, what I'd like most out of this year is a PR. A PR is something that I control with my own actions. I can't control what other people do. I could be 50th place, but would be a success if I kiss that rock in 27.47:52.<br />
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I am leaving to Silverton tomorrow and really look forward to seeing my extended Hardrock family once again. Safe travels everyone! For those of you at home, <a href="http://hardrock100.com/index.php">follow along here</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-12746095310707048132012-04-29T13:23:00.000-06:002012-04-29T13:28:54.548-06:00Leona Divide 35.3 - 4.50Translation - DNF. <br />
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"You're crazy, that's too much racing" said <a href="http://davemackey.blogspot.com/">Dave Mackey</a> post Lake Sonoma. Dave is pretty much a doctor so I should have listened to him. In addition, I was battling my shins for the week post Lake Sonoma but I thought I'd made it through. A good reminder of doing too much too fast.<br />
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Since I was working in Los Angeles the week leading up to Leona Divide, it made perfect sense for me to be racing. That was until we starting climbing the first hill. This day I was real content letting about 20 people slowly fade away, along side <a href="http://dominicgrossman.blogspot.com/">Dominic Grossman</a>. Dom and I would spend the next 20 myles going back and forth, he was battling his stomach and I was unsure of what I could sustain. The climbs seemed to get easier so I was thinking I would maintain the pace and cruise in. <br />
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At the top of the last big climb going out, I caught up with Jamil Coury and then James Bonnet shortly after @ mile 24. Even though it seemed slow, I was very comfortable at 8 pace on the rolling hills and really started to gain confidence that I was going to run a good race. The turnaround for this race is at mile 29.6 with a steep fire road down 2.5 myles. During this descent is when I started to get shooting pains in my shins, an all too familiar problem I had for the better part of the Colorado Trail a few years ago, I knew this was not good. Going up hill, the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Tibialis_anterior_2.png">Tibialis anterior</a> gets a good workout by pulling the toes up, but it's on the downhill when it's stretched out and that's when the pain occurs.<br />
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I climbed back up to the single track where is was more rolling to get a better evaluation of how the shins would feel.... even on the shortest dip the pain returned. At this point I knew it was not a good idea to try to make it in 15 more myles, even though the energy was good. I got to Jimmie Dean Freeman's aid station and it was a full on 80's Jazzersize dance station. JDF asked if I could walk to the next aid station, which was only 3 myles away and I told him no and would wait until they packed it up at 5. Thank goodness <a href="http://ultrasignup.com/results_participant.aspx?fname=Jesse&lname=Haynes&age=0">Jesse Haynes</a> came up to make a deliver and graciously gave me a lift back to the start. Thank you Jesse! And thank you to Kiera and all her volunteers for pulling together an amazing race!<br />
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I'm not upset about not finishing because I did the right thing and in the moment when energy is good, it's a tough call. Hardrock is the goal, and at this point I can't afford any injuries to force extended time off. Having said that, I will bow out of <a href="http://gnarrunners.com/quad-rock-50/">Nick's race</a> in two weeks and re-evaluate. So I take away a few lessons re-learned: 1. If it sounds like too much, it is. 2. Listen to your body and gut. 3. I don't recover quick. <br />
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I walked away from this race feeling positive with my fitness and climbing legs with a good 35 myles and 6k climbing in 5 hours. My only regret is that I missed Myles soccer game where he scored two goals. <br />
<br />
On another note, HOW 'BOUT <a href="http://dylanbowman.com/">Dylan Bowman</a>, <a href="http://timothyallenolson.wordpress.com/">Timothy Olson</a>, and Ashley Nordell!! DBow and TAO threw down the two fastest times in the history of Leona Divide. Those guys, along with <a href="http://irunmountains.blogspot.com/">Nick Clark</a>, are primed for podium spots at Western States. Ashley Nordell ran from behind to nab 2nd place with the 6th fastest time! Will she run Western States? She is quietly putting together a great year! Becky Wheeler ran <a href="http://www.collegiatepeakstrailrun.org/">CP50</a> and came away with 2nd in 8.11! What's amazing is that she broke her foot in the first 15 myles and continued on. Wow! Congratulations <a href="http://www.pearlizumi.com/publish/content/pi_2010/us/en/index/0/run_news.html">Team Pearl Izumi</a>!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3775111454657693165.post-18095036370788219882012-04-22T11:42:00.008-06:002012-04-22T15:48:54.732-06:00Lake Sonoma 50 - 7.43 15th Place<div style="text-align: center; "><div style="text-align: left; "><span><span>A week removed from Lake <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Sonoma</span> and the body is recovering nicely. I can always tell when my fitness is comi</span><span>ng around based on the amount of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">myles</span> I can log the week after. This week I ran 42 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">myles</span> and 7200 ft of elevation gain. Today was the best run of all; felt like I had no chain and no residual soreness. Hope I can feel this way going into Leona Divide next Saturday. Four 50 mile races in 8 week</span><span>s is against my better judgement but with the work schedule and family, it's the only way I will be ready for Hard Rock.</span></span></div></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span>Now for a recap on Lake <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Sonoma</span>:</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span>I had no intentions of doing Lake <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Sonoma</span> but with work meetings in San Francisco and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Napa</span> back to back it made perfect sense. Was I ready to race 50 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">myles</span>? No. Maybe 35 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">myles</span> but if I tried to race 50, it would not be pretty coming in. <span style="font-size: 100%; ">To top things off, this race was stacked with fast runners so in the back of my mind I knew I would try to race way outside my fitness level. </span></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span>Tropical John yelled GO and I quickly found myself chatting it up with friends in the lead pack, Dakota, Nick, Dan O, etc... I didn't think the pace was that bad until Gary <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Gellin</span> said "this is nuts! Are we running a 50K or 50m?" That's when it hit me that I was racing, but 10 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">myles</span> into a race I was determined to see how long I would last hanging onto coat-tails. We arrived at Warm Springs aid (11.5), search for my drop bag (with diluted <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">EFS</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Kona</span> Mocha liquid shot) and they can't find it... Finally found it under the wheel of the truck. Seemed like an eternity but probably only 5 minutes, but I had lost contact with the leaders and I was still feeling good so I made a rookie move... </span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mo3P2r816_o/T5RP6iaiS7I/AAAAAAAACmc/zxXTPKJ7T0s/s400/Willow%2BSprings.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5734296092638596018" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px; " /></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; text-align: center; "><i>Warm Springs mile 11.5 </i></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; text-align: center; "><i>Photo by <a href="http://www.pbase.com/gtach/running">Glenn <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Tachiyama</span></a></i></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; text-align: center; "><br /></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span>I ran hard to try and make contact with the lead pack again, up two decent sized hills, and finally caught Gary, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">OOJ</span>, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">DanO</span>. Gary was in front going slow up the hills but cruising at a nice clip on the downs and flats. He was keeping his HR in check (smart) and on one of the uphills I decided to maintain my pace to catch up to others... I've always had the notion of "going when it's good" and in this case it was too much. When I realized it was too much is when the four of us starting going up Rock Pile hill towards the turnaround and I could not keep pace, even at a fast walk. I decided I would eat and drink in hopes of restoring some order. </span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span>The order of energy never returned and knew by the inbound pass of Liberty Glen aid that it was going to be a long, slow death march in to the finish. As I stated in the beginning "maybe 35 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">myles</span> of racing", turns out I only had a good 50K in me. So to the pain chamber I enter, an all too familiar place for me to visit. In fact, the guard now calls me by my first name... Anyways, it was a rough final 15 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">myles</span>, with my <a href="https://store.4implus.com/g.php?g=113&l=1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">HighGear</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">XT</span>7 GPS</a> watch giving me mile splits (11<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">ish</span>) I knew I was crawling. I was 5 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">myles</span> from the finish and no one had passed me so I started to settle even more when all of a sudden a train of 3 came flowing by; Jeff Browning, Scott Wolfe, and Jon Robinson all had a pretty good pace going and soon were out of sight. <a href="http://www.run100s.com/splits/12ls.htm">Here are the results and splits</a> As you can see I slowed down significantly with a turnaround time of 3.22 and a finish of 7.43. Big congrats to all, but in particular my PI teammates <a href="http://timothyallenolson.wordpress.com/">Timothy Olson</a> and <a href="http://irunmountains.blogspot.com/">Nick Clark</a> for putting down some blazing times behind <a href="http://thatdakotajones.blogspot.com/">boy wonder</a>.</span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-45qiPksnHhY/T5RQj5cGimI/AAAAAAAACmo/VsZqJFpaMyA/s400/Indbound.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5734296803193817698" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); font-family: Times; font-size: medium; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px; " /></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; text-align: center; "><i>Inbound Warm Springs mile 38.2</i></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; text-align: center; "><i>Photo by <a href="http://www.pbase.com/gtach/running">Glenn <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Tachiyama</span></a></i></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; text-align: center; "><i><br /></i></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span>Sure I would have liked to do better by finishing strong but in the whole scheme of things I had a great time! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Pre</span>-race hanging out with friends, post-race hanging out with friends at Bear Republic, and the next day once again hanging out with friends at the Wilson winery. I love running ultras for the simple fact of community! No matter where you go or how you do, everyone always has a good time. Thanks to Tropical John and his crew for putting on a tremendous race! And just as a side note, Karl indicated in his odds that I was the "fan favorite"... not true! Jorge <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">Maravilla</span> was the fan favorite! I think I can pass for a Jorge....</span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span>My nutrition: 3 and 1/2 - 5 oz flasks of <a href="https://www.firstendurance.com/nutrition/efs-liquid-shot.html"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">EFS</span> liquid shot (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">Kona</span> Mocha)</a>. I dilute each flask in about 16 oz of water and take a sip every 7-10 minutes. One water bottle lasts around 1.45 to 2 hours. Immediately after 2 big scoops of <a href="https://www.firstendurance.com/nutrition/ultragen.html"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">Ultragen</span></a> to help restore order, works every time.</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span>Next up: Leona Divide 50, April 28<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">th</span>.</span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06698749333112163049noreply@blogger.com3