tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60457344850275178582024-03-26T01:59:56.337-07:00Endurance Racing FamilyBecause we can...Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comBlogger67125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-9346940586592012182009-12-20T14:21:00.001-08:002009-12-20T15:32:05.136-08:00The Endurance Addiction<a href="http://www.runthecoast.com/"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 184px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417461813364263650" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/Sy6w0PnSCuI/AAAAAAAAAVc/PU1t-nV-ea0/s200/RTC+logo+DONE.jpg" /></a><br /><div>I've been training and competing in ultra-endurance sports for about 5 years now. Looking back, I find it difficult to remember exactly when I became so passionate about these sports. When did it become the focus of my personal energy...when did it become the one thing I think about every night as I lay down to sleep? Why does it feel like a drug sometimes? A drug that is legal, addictive, and makes you better the more you use? Perhaps, if I share some of my thoughts with you, I will remind myself just what makes endurance sports so special to me and you might find some inspiration too...</div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div>As a child, growing up in San Diego, I played sports on a daily basis. Everything my brother Mike and I did was active. We played baseball and football...we rode bikes and went hiking. We slept outside the entire summer on the deck my dad built off of our bedrooms. Imagination was key in our world. We created adventures and carried them out. Basically, our adventures were limitless, exept for the fact that some require money and most times, we had to back by sundown.</div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div>In my teenage years, I was a wrestler and musician. I had boundless energy and never quit anything I started. Anything considered "legal fun" was good in my book. I felt, as long as I followed the rules, I could do whatever I wanted. I also reflected on many of my family members who's lives were clouded with alcohol, drugs, or other forms of addiction. And at a very young age, I acknowledged the fact that I too was probably hard-wired for some sort of addiction. But, I was also the rarity in that I actually learned from the mistakes of others. In doing so, I knew where to turn and what pitfalls to avoid. I also credit my parents with their guidance and careful selection of role models with which they influenced me.</div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div>And so, my adult life brought me great success at an early age and relative achievement compared to those of my own age. I bought a house and married my high school sweetheart. I chose a career as a police officer and started training "new cops" before I was 25 years old. Life was easy....maybe too easy. And, by the time I was the ripe old age of 26, I found myself with an abundance of time and money (Never a good thing).</div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div>At this point, felt drawn to spend my time and money doing something....but what?! Video games are fun...I played them for a few months. And, if my predictions and introspective self-thought were correct, it should be no surprise that I could play those video games for 8-10 hours at a time. I actually lost weight playing video games! Oh, I could also happily play a video poker machine for 6 hours at a pop too. You see, whatever I did, I did it hard and for a long long time. I realized that wherever I put my focus, I could create passion and energy. One day on a lunch date with my wife Jen, she urged me to focus my time and energy on something positive. She had concerns about the future due to my boundless energy, time, money, and lack of goals outside of work. And because I love her...I listened.</div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div>So, it probably took me a couple hours to come up with my plan. The plan was? Ironman triathlon of course! Afterall, I had the background... I could barely swim across the pool without suffocating, I didn't own a bicycle, and I ran 3 miles at a time in the Marine Corps. Plus, I ran those 3 miles pretty fast. Hindsight 20/20.....I didn't have the physical background at all. What I did have was the right <em>mindset.</em></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div>I threw myself into training and started making mistakes, which I quickly learned from. I bought a bike and all the equipment. The new challenge was exciting and intimidating. I walked into a bike shop one day having never been in one....and walked out with a new road bike and $2,000 worth of equipment. I bought 10 books on triathlon training and a membership to the local gym. And I started training.....hard.</div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div>Within 7 weeks, I was finishing my first sprint triathlon. I was feeling awesome and proud. I was enjoying everything I was doing. I hadn't played a video game in months. There was no time! And, I also discovered one of the secrets of passion and time management...that is, the more you have to do, the less time you have, BUT, the more time <em>you will find</em> to do it. AND, the more passionate you are about something, the more energy you will create and find from within.</div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div>Fast forward a couple years...I spent that time training consistently and doing various races. I found myself doing longer distance triathlons like half-Ironman and half marathons. I also used all my new found energy to finish my masters degree with a 3.8 gpa. Life was good baby!</div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div>Next, I signed up for Ironman. Ironman is the ultimate experience of life right? I saw it on television when I was 16. That's what they said...they said that Ironman triathlon was the ultimate human endurance test. So, I needed to get there....NOW!</div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div>Oh yeah, 3 weeks after I registered for that Ironman...Jen told me she was pregnant! Happy Happy Happy! But wait....when would that baby be due? How about 3 weeks, 3 days before Ironman? Is that possible?</div><br /><p></p><br /><p>Yes sir. It's possible:</p><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417455422800966290" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/Sy6rAQ6QspI/AAAAAAAAAVU/btC9BH7yI6s/s400/10039-287-028f.jpg" /><br />Crossing the finish line of my first Ironman was supposed to be the achievement of a life time. And, AT THE TIME, it was. It was the happiest moment of my life. My son was born happy and healthy having survived a high-risk pregnancy. But, I also felt like I had opened a new door into world previously invisible...the world of Ultra-Endurance. Little did I know it would become my life. Ultra-endurance sports. </p><br /><p></p><br /><p>The best drug ever.</p><br /><p></p><br /><p>5 years later, I am 100% ultra-endurance athlete. It has provided a framework from which I make decisions about how I spend my time and money. It also lead me to a vegan diet for health, longevity, recovery, and happiness. The most rewarding aspect of my training and life has been the impact I have had on others. I constantly meet people who find inspiration in what we do as ultra-endurance athletes. And, I realize that my story is unique. </p><br /><p>Today, I find myself working on a new project. I am working with close friends and family to bring a great adventure to life. <a href="http://www.runthecoast.com/">"Run The Coast"</a> is a 500 mile run from San Francisco to San Diego. Along the way, runners and walkers will join me and my running partner, Jason, as we make our way down the coast. Each step we take will generate donations for our chosen charity, <a href="http://www.ironandyfoundation.org/">The Iron Andy Foundation.</a></p><br /><p>Please come run or walk with us in November, 2010 as we make our way down the California Coast. <a href="http://www.runthecoast.com/">RunTheCoast</a></p><br /><p></p><br /><p>Your friend,</p><br /><p>Jerry</p><br /><p><br /></p><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-88944243226835730032009-12-06T22:24:00.000-08:002009-12-06T22:41:59.041-08:00Team Iron Andy @ Western States 100!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SxyjK3l3aJI/AAAAAAAAAVM/8W-DvuaDCh8/s1600-h/images.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 124px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 124px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412380259309283474" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SxyjK3l3aJI/AAAAAAAAAVM/8W-DvuaDCh8/s400/images.jpg" /></a><br /><div><div><div><div><a href="http://www.ws100.com/">The Western States 100mi Endurance Run (WS100)</a> is the mother of all ultras. The race is so popular and rich with history, athletes from all over the world compete yearly in a "lottery", which determines who will get the opportunity to run the course. After 5 years, Jerry was finally accepted through the lottery system and accepted entry into the 2010 race!</div><br /><br /><div>The WS100 is held in the last week of June. In preparation for Run the Coast, Jerry will be training and competing at Western States. He will be "paced" by Jason Chilson for the final 38 miles in their quest to score a sub-24hr silver belt buckle for Team Iron Andy.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/Sxyhx_9KQMI/AAAAAAAAAU8/typHAwg1GPE/s1600-h/WS100buckle.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 116px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 86px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412378732546113730" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/Sxyhx_9KQMI/AAAAAAAAAU8/typHAwg1GPE/s200/WS100buckle.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div> </div><div>From now until June 2010, physical training will be focused on a series of shorter ultramarathons, which will prepare Jerry for Western States 100. At this point, logistics and preparation for Run the Coast continue and will be strengthened by the intermediate goal of running a successful race at the 2010 Western States 100. Following the WS100, they will be driving the route from San Francisco to San Diego, mapping out the exact course for <a href="http://www.runthecoast.com/">Run the Coast!</a> <a href="http://www.ironandyfoundation.org/get_jtia.php">Go Team Iron Andy!</a></div></div><div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412379939704885490" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/Sxyi4Q-PUPI/AAAAAAAAAVE/a7A8KrsJYCg/s200/16270_1278165198687_1366726485_775182_2305284_n.jpg" /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-48882648128200332902009-10-19T19:39:00.001-07:002009-10-19T20:03:27.190-07:00Team Iron Andy Takes 1st Place!<div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/St0m0be0J8I/AAAAAAAAAUc/xmzKrQsUTds/s1600-h/100_5672.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394510610831779778" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/St0m0be0J8I/AAAAAAAAAUc/xmzKrQsUTds/s320/100_5672.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://www.runthecoast.com/">Team Iron Andy (Jason and I)</a> competed in the 24hrs of Boulder race this past weekend. We worked as a two-man team in the 12hr division. Being an ultrarunner, I thought this would be easy for us...especially considering the rest breaks! Well it wasn't.</div><br /><br /><br /><div>The race started at 9am and ended at 9pm. That provided 12 hours for which to accumulate as much mileage as possible. Each lap was about 7.1 miles. We decided to run laps, one after another. Each lap, we estimated, would take just under an hour. That would give us an hour of 'recovery' before having to run again. Well, having never done that before, we ran at a much higher pace from the beginning of the event. Averaging 7:30/mi becomes increasingly difficult when you pretend that your 'recovered' and attempt to do it over and over again. Gradually, our pace slipped. The running became just as painful as any ultramarathon. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Fortunately, no other relay teams were within <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/St0oU9AdiUI/AAAAAAAAAUs/kkF1hk6C95Y/s1600-h/100_5655.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394512269098715458" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/St0oU9AdiUI/AAAAAAAAAUs/kkF1hk6C95Y/s200/100_5655.JPG" /></a></div>reach of our accumulated mileage. We were able to run more miles than every other 2-man team and also a few 5-man relay teams as well. <a href="http://www.runthecoast.com/">Team Iron Andy </a>takes 1st place!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/St0nBzIdgRI/AAAAAAAAAUk/JroKVjPhCtY/s1600-h/100_5633.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394510840518770962" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/St0nBzIdgRI/AAAAAAAAAUk/JroKVjPhCtY/s320/100_5633.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div>Ken Forest, a close friend, provided crew support throughout the day. Ken was awesome and became more of a crutch as the hours and miles began taking their toll on our bodies. We spent much of the day trying to recruit him for full-time crew support at <a href="http://www.runthecoast.com/">Run the Coast</a>. When the clock ran out, we had run 78.5 miles as a team. </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>It was our first chance to compete publicly as <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.runthecoast.com">'Team Iron Andy'</a>. Everything we do, including races such as this, are meant to prepare us for Run the Coast next year. We proudly wore our new Team Iron Andy uniforms. We hope you will become involved or support our efforts. It is with great pride that we share our adventures. We are proud to be supporting those with diabetes by asking for donations, on our behalf, to the <a href="http://ironandyfoundation.org/">Iron Andy Foundation.</a></div><br /><br /><br /><div>See you on the trail!</div><br /><br /><div>-Jerry</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>For more information, visit <a href="http://www.ironandyfoundation.org/">Iron Andy Foundation</a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-76601305133461413522009-10-14T14:24:00.000-07:002009-10-15T18:57:10.714-07:00Run the Coast: 500 miles for Juvenile Diabetes<a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.runthecoast.com"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 307px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392569767832574258" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/StZBof4r2TI/AAAAAAAAAUE/Joh4Vuteayo/s320/RTC+logo+draft.JPG" /></a><br /><div>Run the Coast?</div><div></div><div>So what's this all about Jerry? </div><div>Well...let me explain in a little more detail.</div><div></div><div>I became interested in an urban point to point run when a Facebook friend, Christrian Griffith, starting loosely organizing <a href="http://runacrossgeorgia.com/">"Run Across Georgia". </a>Upon his announcement to host such an event in April 2010, I immediately joined the FB group and told him I was interested. Then I became jaded by the idea due to the Colorado winter and significant difficulty in preparing for such an event through the Colorado snow. And, even though I started to give up on running across Georgia, I remained interested in such an event.</div><div></div><div>Next, I met <a href="http://ironandyblog.com/">Andy Holder "Iron Andy"</a> at Ironman Louisville. <a href="http://ironandyblog.com/">"Iron Andy</a>", as he's known, started the "<a href="http://www.ironandyfoundation.org/">Iron Andy Foundation</a>" after being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in his late 30s. Diabetes had always been my target for charity work....and Andy's foundation seemed to be the perfect fit for my efforts. At the time, I had no specific charity for which to support. My personal connection to diabetes is, of course, my wife Jenifer (a type 1 diabetic) and several of my family members who also have diabetes. Just this past summer, my older brother Jeff was also diagnosed with diabetes.</div><div></div><div>Andy I and I spoke briefly about ultramarathon and my interest in helping his foundation. We then spoke again several weeks after Ironman Louisville. This time, I had an idea for supporting the Iron Andy Foundation. <a href="http://www.runthecoast.com/">How about a 500 mile run?</a></div><div></div><div>The idea of a 500 mile run came from a disussion I had with my training partner, Jason Chilson. Jason was new to ultrarunning at the time and I had been working with him on developing his endurance skills. So, I threw the idea to Andy and he showed interest in the idea. It seemed that the run provided some framework for which to promote the Iron Andy Foundation, raise money for juvenile diabetes, and inspire people to live a healthy lifestyle. Within a week, Jason and I had come up with <a href="http://www.runthecoast.com/">"Run the Coast".</a></div><div></div><div>With over 12 months left to prepare and train for <a href="http://www.runthecoast.com/">Run The Coast</a>, we are moving forward with enthusiasm and high hopes. This basic idea is this:</div><div></div><div>Jason and I will start our run from the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. We will run/walk 40-50 miles per day, moving down the coastline of California. </div><div></div><div>Along our route, we will allow fellow distance runners to join us. We anticipate a few die-hard runners, that will put in longer mileage......100-200 miles. For the most part, however, I expect fellow runners to spend the day or half a day running 25-50 miles. And, I also would enjoy having people join us for just a few miles as well. For us, it does not matter whether someone wants to run all day or not.....just that we have other runners out there with us, having run, and supporting the Iron Andy Foundation. And for what it's worth...our running pace will likely be much slower than those that are joining us!</div><div></div><div>Non-runners can also help us. I anticipate needing about 12 volunteer coordinators, who can assist with communication and organizing aid stations. I will keep the coordination close to my friends and family......and ask those closest to me for assistance. Having said that, I would greatly appreciate anyone's interest in helping us....whether it be for a day, week, or two weeks. This run is about having fun and helping support kids with diabetes. This run WILL do great things.....so I believe it is a worthy cause for which to spend your time and/or money. Please send me a direct email if you wish to be an area coordinator, volunteer, crew member, etc... And thank you in advance for offering your time. <a href="mailto:endurancejer@gmail.com">endurancejer@gmail.com</a> </div><div></div><div>Over the next 6 months or so, we will be working on finding corporate sponsors and developing communication infrastructure for <a href="http://www.runthecoast.com/">Run the Coast</a>. The exact route, dates, and stop-off locations are yet to be determined. Unfortunately, this is not an event which can be off-the-cuff. We have to plan and organize.....and it will take AT LEAST the full year to do so. For now, we will be sending out most information through our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/group.php?gid=161190724815&ref=ts">Facebook Group "Run The Coast".</a></div><div></div><div>We hope you can join us next year for Run The Coast!</div><div></div><div>-Jerry</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-78239922436343000692009-05-19T11:12:00.000-07:002009-05-19T14:05:55.279-07:0024hr Kida Relay-Solo<a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.kidarelay.com"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337637795818299090" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/ShMZS5dy3tI/AAAAAAAAATs/rktM0C1VsZY/s320/100_4559.JPG" /></a><br /><div><div><div>I returned from Utah last week after competing in the inaugural "24hr Kida Relay" as a solo athlete. One other entrant, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.epicdistance.blogspot.com">Matt Ward </a>from Utah, competed for the entire 24hrs...although we weren't really 'competing' as much as supporting one another.</div><br /><br /><div>The field was primarily teams of 4, both male and female teams, as well as mixed. The race was well organized and held in an incredible location. First-time RD <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.heaththurston.blogspot.com">'Heath Thurston' </a>of Utah designed the race as a fund raiser for 'Kids in Motion', which is a nonprofit group that supports families of children with cerebral palsy. "Kida" is Heath's daughter's name and she has a mild form of cerebral palsy. Treatment and care for these children can be very expensive for families, so this organization provides an invaluable service to the community. <em>(donations can be made through the race website: </em><a href="http://www.kidarelay.com/"><em>www.kidarelay.com</em></a><em> )</em></div><br /><div>The race started on Friday, May 14th at 8am. For the following 12hrs, we did repeat loops of 25 miles around 'West Mountain.' It provided a scenic route with few cars. </div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/ShMYNcc0r_I/AAAAAAAAATU/if5J4zEuCJM/s1600-h/100_4494.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337636602618621938" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/ShMYNcc0r_I/AAAAAAAAATU/if5J4zEuCJM/s320/100_4494.JPG" /></a><br /><br /></div><br /><br />(view southeast from race headquarters)<br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><div><br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/ShMZ3T8wizI/AAAAAAAAAT8/1tZ2m5Vtzrs/s1600-h/100_4496.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337638421402782514" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/ShMZ3T8wizI/AAAAAAAAAT8/1tZ2m5Vtzrs/s320/100_4496.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>(a sunset photo taken from the run course)<br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div>Matt and I took the liberty of using a crew vehicle and/or bike pacer for some of the ride. The relay teams were strong cyclists, ironman competitors, and short-course triathletes. They maintained a strong competitive pace throughout the day. Race headquarters kept stats and posted the competition results throughout the day.</div></div><br /><div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/ShMY3HzZpzI/AAAAAAAAATk/Az7FdH56zY4/s1600-h/100_4554.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337637318630680370" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/ShMY3HzZpzI/AAAAAAAAATk/Az7FdH56zY4/s320/100_4554.JPG" /></a><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>At 8pm, we all switched to running repeat 6 mile laps on an out-and-back course along a lonely stretch of roadway that paralleled Utah Lake. At dawn, wildlife was everywhere and the stillness was awesome.</div><br /><div>Matt Ward beat me in the solo division, putting up 175 miles in the roadbike course and 42 miles in the run. I was satisfied with my 2nd place 150 miles roadbike, 36 miles run.</div><br /><br /><div>Relay teams remained competitive throughout the night and everyone was exhausted at the 8am award ceremony.</div><br /><div>I put edited a short video about my race and I am creating a second video, which will highlight Kida and the other athletes. Here is the video I created, showing some of the beauty the course had to offer:</div><br /><br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyMJfHGCm9UFqBCewOp4NNeEiZKO4I7QrEAE5cdin9fsX2j8cDxwc0MgL8K1Bh1qgSJDXlo_H7mFZNOcqgxLw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /><br /><div><strong>Video of 24hr Kida Relay Solo-</strong></div><div><strong>Jerry Armstrong, Team E.R.F.</strong></div><div><strong></strong><br />If you're looking for a unique and difficult ultra challenge.......check out <a href="http://www.kidarelay.com/">http://www.kidarelay.com/</a> and sign up for next year's event. And if you are more interested in keeping it fast and having fun with friends, sign up as a team. Remember, there's a $500 prize purse for winning teams! Stay strong.......have fun.</div><div></div><div>-jerry<br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p></div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-47435764254603377562009-04-05T16:14:00.000-07:002009-04-05T18:32:41.141-07:00Latest Training Technology-iPhone RunKeeper<div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SdlFDyocjfI/AAAAAAAAAS8/bAkfmN3PEtk/s1600-h/runkeeper.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321360366148292082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 97px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 138px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SdlFDyocjfI/AAAAAAAAAS8/bAkfmN3PEtk/s320/runkeeper.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><em>Fellow endurance athletes listen up! </em>A simple application on the iPhone called<strong> "Run Keeper Pro"</strong> will make the iPhone worth purchasing by itself.</div><br /><div>I bought my iPhone last week and quickly learned that is was much more than just a phone. It's a personal assistant, computer, entertainment device, and much more. But wait......what's this Run Keeper program? Holy smokes......no way!</div><br /><br /><div>I downloaded Run Keeper Pro for a one-time fee of $9.99. The download/install took less than a minute. Later that day, I was preparing to head out on a short run to test out my new toy. I started the Run Keeper application and............<br /></div><div></div><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SdlFL730XVI/AAAAAAAAATE/DqJS9kYoxfo/s1600-h/runkeeper3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321360506067639634" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 87px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 141px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SdlFL730XVI/AAAAAAAAATE/DqJS9kYoxfo/s320/runkeeper3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>I began receiving audible information from a female voice through my headphones. The voice provided information including pace, average speed, distance, and duration. I was simultaneously listening to mp3 music on the same device, but the voice clearly told me the info I needed. There was no need to look at the device, which was awesome.</div><br /><div>The Run Keeper Pro application uses the phone's internal GPS to calculate information. Of course, like all GPS, it needs an outdoor signal. But, I found the accuracy to be as good or better than the Garmin series watches we all use.</div><br /><div>I was excited to discover this toy within a toy..........and I think you will to.</div><br /><div>I share this mainly for those of you that carry a standard cell phone and, like me, had no idea that iPhones came with this capability. As an endurance athlete, I found this one application to make the phone almost worth the price by itself.</div><br /><div>Using Run Keeper Pro on iPhone will work great for shorter runs, less than 3 hours. Like other portable devices, it has battery limitations. The Garmin 201/301 watches will track the same information, but last as long as 8 or 10 hours. (Also, if you're a trail runner, you must be weary of the expensive computer in your pocket so you don't drop it in the river.) </div><br /><div>Other than batter life or fragility in adverse weather, I find no drawbacks to using the Run Keeper application on all runs. </div><br /><div>Another sweet feature for runners is the added microphone in the headphones. If someone calls you while you're running and listening to music.......you simply press the 'answer' button and talk hands-free. When the phone call is done, you end the call and the music comes back on automatically. </div></div><div></div><div>Run Keeper information can also be uploaded and maniupated to provide mapping and analysis. Until now, this was something that only Garmin was doing with relative ease.<br /><br /><div>If you want to learn more, google iPhone Run Keeper. I found most of the user reviews to be positive. You should also know that the application can be adjusted for hiking and cycling as well.</div><br /><div>I don't mean this to be an all-inclusive review of the Run Keeper Pro application. I merely wanted to share my excitement over this application for those of you that didn't know it existed....like I was just last week.</div><br /><div>Run long, stay strong.</div><br /><div>Jerry</div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-82387306806379198562009-03-17T23:55:00.000-07:002009-03-18T00:36:06.133-07:00Yoga<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/ScCkNUCNpnI/AAAAAAAAAS0/rNqGTK21Kck/s1600-h/1234153983_yoga_sex.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314428108920432242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/ScCkNUCNpnI/AAAAAAAAAS0/rNqGTK21Kck/s320/1234153983_yoga_sex.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>So I've been experimenting with yoga...</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I think yoga can be extremely beneficial to endurance athletes and that's why I thought I'd share...</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>About a year ago, my good friend Lorraine talked me into some '<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Bikram</span> yoga' classes. At the time, I was purely motivated by the idea of heat training in preparation of crew support at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Badwater</span>. I also thought it would help my flexibility. Looking back, I enjoyed the classes and wish I had continued training in yoga techniques.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I went to about 4 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Bikram</span> yoga sessions. They were extremely intense and difficult. The room was heated to about 120 degrees and extremely humid. I always took fluids and the instructor had a problem with that. Each pose was difficult, primarily because of the intensity of heat and humidity. Of course, I'm attracted to challenges and I left each session planning to improve on my next visit. (I also didn't mind the motivation provided by the many spandex-wearing ladies around me.) At <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Badwater</span>, I enjoyed the air conditioning of the car as a crew support member and shut the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">proverbial</span> book on my yoga experience...until now.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Flexibility has always been a challenge for me. I was blessed with a stiff and inflexible body. It never prevented me from athletics and even may have helped in wrestling. Although, when I started endurance sports....I think my inflexibility became something of an obstacle. I've suffered from many <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">over training</span> injuries and in recovery from each, I came to learn that stretching and flexibility may have helped prevent my diagnosis. Swimming, cycling, and running require muscles to break down, rebuild, and therefore....become less flexible. If you want to see a tight <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">quadricep</span>, take a look at an <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">ultrarunner</span>. This was pointed out to me by my last physical therapist when she was trying to fix my IT band. Our legs are stiff, strong, and inflexible....and if we don't work at lengthening those muscle fibers, we might as well prepare for injury...because something has to give.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>So, in an effort to improve and avoid repeating mistakes...I recently started doing yoga training at home. I've been recording a television program called, "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Namaste</span> Yoga". I'm not sure if the show is available outside of Colorado but I do think it has been produced well. I don't think it's necessary to attend yoga classes if you have access to a quality yoga video and the interior space to do the movements and poses.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>To those that refuse to include yoga in their training, I urge you to reconsider. Yoga is thousands of years old. It has deep, rich history. I believe that 'attempting' to do the poses and breathe as instructed, can help your flexibility and mental focus. I have begun realizing the positive effects of yoga in my training. In just a few weeks of doing yoga at home, my flexibility has improved in my shoulders and lower back. Because the poses are often <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">similar</span>, I recognize my improvement in holding poses that were impossible when I first started.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Endurance sports are special because they often require athletes to tap into something deeper than the surface-level physical exertion. Incorporating mental strength and meditation techniques allow the average athlete to go further than they thought possible. And ultra endurance athletes have already already proven, by way of their chosen sport, that they choose challenge and discomfort as a means to learn about inner strength. If you really think about why we do these sports...you will probably conclude that it is about realizing individual potential and self-improvement. Besides the physical......one must consider the intangible power of the mind. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>When we run for 5, 10, or 20+ hours...we are using meditation. Our physical accomplishments are completed by the power of the mind...not the body. Because of this, the benefits of yoga are obvious, in my opinion. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Yiannis</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Kouros</span>, the hands-down, best <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">ultrarunner</span> of all time said in an interview that if his records were ever broken, it would not be an American. His reasoning? American athletes do not engage the meditative, spiritual, and mental potential of their potential. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Kouros</span> predicts that only a runner from Asia would be capable of beating him because culturally, they use the power of the mind to overcome physical limitations. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Kouros</span> believes he is capable of extreme ultra endurance feats, because of his mind power.....not his body. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Speaking from a beginner point-of-view....I can say that practicing yoga does not immediately provide obvious benefits. It is with continued, and repeated effort that you will begin to realize how beneficial it is to your health and performance. I look forward to using yoga as a part of my training from now on. I am only <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">disappointed</span> in myself for not making this decision earlier.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Coach Jerry </div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-12510566794428550462009-03-10T17:32:00.000-07:002009-03-10T18:04:46.050-07:00Endurance CoachingI recently linked up my blog with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Facebook</span>, which has been pretty cool. On a run last week, I came to realize that coaching and teaching really <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">fulfillls</span> me... <br /><br />Although somewhat successful, I decided to stop trying to make a profit off from my coaching business, "Team <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">ERF</span>". I enjoyed teaching, coaching, and helping beginner athletes achieve their goals and realize their dreams. But, when I added the business element, something was lost. I was not fulfilled in accepting money from those that sought improvement.<br /><br />I learned a lot from coaching, even if it was a loose format. And I realized last week that I want to offer my 'coaching' to all those that may need it. I'm strongly against coaching-for-business. I just want to put myself out there again because I know that I can be of service to so many friends and acquaintances.<br /><br />Training/Topics related to:<br /><br />-Running:trail/road/distance/ultra/race selection/goals/equipment/starting programs<br />-Hydration: <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">pre</span>/post/training/products/electrolyte tabs/equipment<br />-Nutrition: <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">pre</span>/post/for distance races/dietary concerns/vegan, vegetarian, etc..<br />-Cycling<br />-Swimming<br />-Endurance Training/Racing<br /><br />I plan to blog pertinent training information each week, which will be of interest to hardcore endurance athletes, but also beginners. I also want to generate a dialog with those that are interested in the information. The conversation will be on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Facebook</span> and I will likely create a profile specifically for Coach Jerry or Team <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">ERF</span>. I may also create a group page for it.<br /><br />I also want to say that I do not claim to be an "expert" on anything. In the past, if a question came up, I researched the answer and was able to learn something new for myself. Thankfully, I also maintain communication with true "experts" that support my knowledge.<br /><br />With that said, Coach Jerry is open for business.<br /><br />Hit me up on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Facebook</span>...or shoot me an email.<br /><br />-Coach <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Jer</span>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-20061322003139105082009-03-04T10:06:00.001-08:002009-03-15T14:29:51.551-07:00A Runner at Masters Swimming<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/Sb1zPsBiQLI/AAAAAAAAASs/QG5E3-JgMnI/s1600-h/100_2835.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313529848719884466" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/Sb1zPsBiQLI/AAAAAAAAASs/QG5E3-JgMnI/s320/100_2835.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>When I started competing in triathlon 6 years ago, I considered the swim to be nothing more than something that provided a starting position for the 'real race'. As I increased the race distances and headed toward my first Ironman, I ignored proper swim training as well. I trained for swimming much like I would for an ultramarathon....long, slow, mileage.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Shortly thereafter, I met and became friends with Cindy Yankee (a two-time All American and high school swim coach). Cindy encouraged me to improve my swim stroke and we started training irregularly. Basically, I would apply myself to swimming when I was injured or not preparing for an ultra. Cindy knew my heart was with distance trail running but she still chipped away at my swim stroke and built a foundation that provided me better efficiency to this day.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>To give you some idea of how my swimming compared to the others during a race...I submit this...</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>At Ironman Arizona 2006, I exited the water 1,050th. Since there are approximately 2,000 athletes in the event, I was basically right in the middle. I thew myself into the bike leg and began passing other athletes over the next 5 hours. I was only passed ONCE. I passed over 700 people on the bike leg. I then began the run and passed more. I climbed from that initial placement after the swim to about 316th. </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>One might argue that my cycling/running is strong. Well, I'm here to say that it was the weak swimming that makes it seem that way.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Two months ago, I finally decided to join masters swimming. I had read several times that masters swimming was the best way to improve. Looking back, I'm glad I did. Twice a week, I attend the coached swim training in Boulder. The swim training is consistent with other masters training groups in other states and cities around the U.S.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The coach placed me amongst other swimmers of approximately the same level. Each week, I show up ready for the daily workout. We usually start with a few laps for warm-up. The session is then presented and shown on dry erase boards. The pool is reserved for the hour, so we only have to organize from within the group. Each lane swims 'in circle', which means you swim the first length on the right, flip turn, and return on the left. By leaving the wall about 4-5 seconds apart, as many as 6 or 8 swimmers can use the lane simulaneously. The other athletes are friendly and supportive. It has a 'team' feel even though we are all training for something different.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Over the past couple months, I have seen my swimming strength improve. I don't become as winded during the 1hr workouts. On my own, I have done several 500yd time trials and realized about 30 seconds less for 500yds.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The advice I was given long ago is what I present to other aspiring triathletes....Focus your time and energy on your weakest sport. For me, that was swimming, but I am now looking forward to my first triathlon of the year when I can capitalize on this focused improvement. Also, remember that triathlon is a sport in and of itself. Do not consider triathlon to be three different sports........they transition and meld together. Combine your workouts and focus on the aspect of the sport that slows you down in races. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Enjoy the day.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Jerry</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-62533619172031787382009-03-03T13:46:00.001-08:002009-03-04T10:04:09.246-08:00Full-Time Dad, Part-Time Athlete; Ultraman 2010<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ultraman</span> is one of my lifetime endurance goals. Although I am an <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ultrarunner</span> at heart, I can't help but be absolutely fascinated by the idea of traveling to Hawaii or Canada for this:<br /><br />Day 1: 6.2 mile ocean swim/90 mile bike<br />Day 2: 170 mile bike<br />Day 3: 52.4 mile run (double marathon)<br /><br />I would not compete in races if I was all alone. I don't enjoy traveling to races alone or competing alone. In fact, I hate it. For me, it is the shared memories and adventure of teamwork in the outdoors. Sure, I can complete difficult events.....but who would understand what I went through or what was so funny about random things like the "Banana at mile 72". Nobody would understand if I didn't bring family and friends into the ridiculous and wonderful world of endurance sports.<br /><br />So <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Ultraman</span> strikes my fancy on so many levels. You have to have the endurance resume....the luck of the application selection (only 35 get selected per year) and the money/time-off. Oh yeah, you have to train your ass off too.<br /><br />I want to make a serious bid for selection to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Ultraman</span> 2010. In order to do that, I will have to round out my triathlon resume for 2009. So, the balance must begin.........Full-time dad, Part-Time Athlete.<br /><br />My son, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Jalen</span>, turns 3 years old this month. I refuse to call him an obstacle for my personal goal of getting to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Ultraman</span>. He is merely, "a challenge". Since I must share equally the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">resposibility</span> of caring for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Jalen</span>...the event takes on new meaning.<br /><br />You may not have noticed, but many ultra-endurance athletes are single or retired. Many do not have children. And those on the podium rarely have to rush home to prepare <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">PBJs</span> for their toddler. At the same time, I wish to acknowledge ultra-endurance athletes who still manage to work full-time and compete in these events. In fact, race directors should probably create a special division for us.<br /><br />Excuses are everywhere and I can think of a thousand reasons to ignore my personal goals. But yesterday I resolved to move toward <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Ultraman</span>...one <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">PBJ</span> at a time.<br /><br />For what it's worth, I'll let you all know how it goes. Gotta go... <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Jalen</span> just laid down for a nap and I have to squeeze in 40 miles on the indoor trainer.<br /><br />-Jerry (Jalen's dad)Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-20272453942522628722008-08-25T12:35:00.000-07:002008-09-21T19:18:33.401-07:00Leadville 100 PacingSince moving to Colorado this past June, I maintained contact with all my running friends in Southern California. I remember how remote and extreme Colorado seemed... I wanted to become liason of sorts, for runners in SoCal that sought to run races here in Colorado. <div><div><div><div><div><div><div></div><div>Michelle Barton was one of the first to take advantage of my offer this past month when she flew out for the Leadville 100. Our crew included Cindy Yankee and Jenifer Armstrong...both experienced with crewing long distance races. Michelle's 8 year old daughter, Sierra, also joined the team when the adventure started on Saturday morning at 4am.</div><div></div><div>Leadville is a small mountain town in the Rocky Mountains, which finds itself at a modest 10,200 feet. Runners are challenged in this environment by the obvioius factors associated with oxygen deprivation and rapid weather changes. The Leadville 100 is ranked among the most difficult 100 mile trail ultramarathons in the United States.</div><br /><div>Michelle arrived just one week before the race, placing herself at a distinct disadvantage for this race. I had concerns for her ability to perform in the high altitude, knowing how I felt after an entire month of living nearby. I knew that the elevation would be the main factor to overcome.</div><br /><div>At the first aid station, mile 13.5, Michelle arrived looking out-of-sorts. Instead of being among the top 5, she found herself quite ways back in the pack. She didn't appear to be struggling, but admitted that she was having problems breathing. This scenario continued throughout the day. To make matters worse, mother nature opened a can of whoopass on everyone trying to run this already difficult course. Temperatures ranged from 30-45 degrees. Freezing rain, hail, and winds pounded runners into submission. At approximately 45 miles, athletes climb up and over Hope Pass at 12,700 feet. The 50 mile turn around is just after the climb, requiring everyone to climb back up and over Hope Pass again while they are still celebrating their survival from the first time.</div><br /><div>The course cut offs require that athletes cover a certain distance over a specific length of time. If they are behind the cut offs, they are disqualified. In consideration of the weather conditions, the drop out rate rose significantly. I suited up to pace Michelle from 50 miles but the evil cut off warned near. Michelle, along with hundreds of others, were disqualified by the established timelines. An announcement from the lead volunteer advised all athletes in the aid station at 50 miles to ''exit immediately'' or be disqualified. At that moment, I knew that Michelle and many others were being pulled from the race.</div><br /><div>At that same moment, a male runner was hurridly arranging his gear for the ''immediate exit.'' His name was Ladislav Lettovsky. Ladislav called out for someone to pace him...he had not prepared to have a pacer until that exact second. Knowing Michelle was out of the race...I told Ladislav I would pace him. He ran out of the aid station while I pinned his name on my chest, indicating to race officials, that I was his official pacer.</div><br /><br /><div>I caught Ladislav and then saw Michelle making her way into the aid station. I stopped and told her the bad news. She was shocked, and being the incredible athlete she was, never even thought about the cut 0ffs. Our exchange was rushed and left me feeling guilty for having to make such a quick decision regarding my pacer duties. I encouraged her to get to the aid station where Jenifer and Sierra were waiting. Once there, Michelle would also find her good friend Rob Cowan would dropped, as well, due to altitude-related illness.</div><br /><div>I spent the nex 15 hours pacing Ladislav. He was determined and strong. On the climb up and over Hope Pass...again, Ladislav struggled to breath. He vomited regularly and climbed slowly, although using every ounce of strength. I offered suggestions for his form, knowing that he was using all his energy to move forward without consideration of things less important...like hiking form. He occasionally spoke in short sentences, letting me know he was well aware of the timelines he must meet in order to finish the race. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238549731228519714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SLMRObwYDSI/AAAAAAAAANY/3i8dX-Jhwrg/s320/CIMG0820.JPG" border="0" />Climbing above 11,000 feet, clouds and fog enveloped the valley below...making it's way smoothly up the mountain. It represented the looming cut off times that we would be fighting for the rest of the race.</div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SLMRgNFE3II/AAAAAAAAANg/WCwwJ_eAW2c/s1600-h/CIMG0845.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238550036526455938" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SLMRgNFE3II/AAAAAAAAANg/WCwwJ_eAW2c/s320/CIMG0845.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />The environment is remote and powerful. It is quiet. The only sound heard is that of natural streams, foot steps, and the arduous sound of oxygen-starved lungs.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div>Ladislav climbed up and over the pass. He asked me for a time check and then confirmed I had not lied to him. (Pacers will sometimes lie to the runner in order to motivate them or keep them positive.) I told him it was indeed, 8:05 pm, and he seemed to be satisfied with that time. He stopped only for a split second...not to look at the incredible view, but only to take a picture with his pacer.</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SLMSvHcANLI/AAAAAAAAANo/fsEIPIu4-jA/s1600-h/CIMG0855.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238551392221672626" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SLMSvHcANLI/AAAAAAAAANo/fsEIPIu4-jA/s320/CIMG0855.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>At this point, Ladislav knew he was ''only'' 45 miles away from his goal. He had finished the most difficult climb of the race...and he knew he could finish.</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>The darkness came fast. Ladislav and I pounded down the north side of Hope Pass. At the bottom, we could see through the darkness...bright lights which Ladislav identified as the 'Twin Lakes Aid Station.' In the final few miles before Twin Lakes, we had to make our way across a stream using a rope. The water was cold but felt invigorating. </div><br /><br /><div>We arrived at Twin Lakes and Ladislav's crew/family was there waiting. We had to rush out of the aid station because the cut-off times continued to threaten Ladislav's successful finish. This would continue as we made our way from aid station to aid station.</div><br /><br /><div>Into the darkness we plodded. One moment will stick with me forever...it was about mile 63. The sky was black dark. We were running along a single track section of rocky trail and aspen trees were everywhere. Just 10 minutes earlier it had been raining hard......the temperature had dropped and we covered ourselves in black trashbags. I was running behind Ladislav, handing him his bottle about every 6-7 minutes. Conversation was nill and no other sounds polluted this surreal moment. </div><br /><br /><div>Lightning struck in the distance above us, and because of the darkness, we were illuminated with each strike. I counted like a 6 year old....one one-thousand, two..... And my scientific approach confirmed what I already knew; the lightning storm was coming over the hill right toward us. I continued counting until it was painfully obvious that we were about to go from cold and damp to soaking wet. </div><br /><div>It was then that a strange sound alerted me. Something like amplified static or paper all around us. I looked above and tried not to run off the trail. Ladislav didn't even slow down. Did he know what was coming? Perhaps.</div><br /><br /><div>Hail fell out of the sky without warning. It poured frozen hail, the size of peas. We weren't forewarned by rain or sleet.......this was just hail and it was falling out of the sky. The trail turned white and the loud static sound became louder. The sound was being created by hail falling through the aspen trees. There was plenty of aspen trees and there was also plenty of hail. The sound was deafening. This moment might not be so memorable...but it was Ladislav's persistence throughout this moment that touched me.</div><div></div><div>Ladislav didn't even slow down........didn't even say anything or acknowledge the powerful hail storm. He didn't even slow down or speed up. He was a determined man and his focus, throughout this surreal moment, epitomized the dedication that one needs to finish the Leadville 100. That was an intense experience for me.....to see this athlete pushing through pain and discomfort......mentaly focusing his effort, despite mother nature's strength and determination to make his effort near impossible.</div><br /><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248487069208573074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SNZfLohodJI/AAAAAAAAANw/2gn3xI8T-AM/s320/CIMG0865.JPG" border="0" /><br />The remainder of the night became one endless moment. Time was still and nothing changed from mile to mile. Even though I was just a pacer, I had difficulty staying focused on our goal. I was tired, wet, and struggling. I was fully capable of running the 50 miles.....but the difficulty of this event was the weather and rugged trails. The darkness and cold wet trails were even taking their toll on me. But how could I even consider my situation when Ladislav had been running since 4am the previous day? That consideration would forever put to rest the idea of quitting. Ladislav pushed and pushed.......he knew he would finish.</div></div><div><br /><br />With each aid station we learned just how difficult Ladislav's mission would be. Naturally, we would lose track of time and distance while out on the course. On approach to aid stations, I would run ahead and find out how close Ladislav was to the cut-off. I would then run back and tell him so he knew whether he could continue running at the same pace or lay down the hammer for a couple miles in order to build up a minute or two for the aid station.</div><div><br /><br />This procedure was our only hope of succeeding. It was, however, extremely stressful and tiring. It required me to run additional miles and then back track. Once Ladislav arrived at the aid station, the 2 or 3 minutes we 'built up' was, of course, not nearly enough to rest or recover. Before Ladislav even had a moment to sit down, he was being pushed out of the aid station by a tired short-fused volunteer who threatened his disqualification. This happened at each aid station. His determination was not swayed, however.</div><div><br /><br />Because of our position in the race, we knew that nobody running behind us would finish the race. Basically, we represented the grim reaper of the Leadville 100. As Ladsilav and I passed runners on the trail....we knew they would be disqualified at the next aid station. Let it be known we passed a lot. I would estimate that we passed more than 150 athletes as we ran the back 50 miles. We saw injured runners, who pleaded for us to send back help. I recorded their names and race numbers in my head.......then told the aid station about each injured person when I arrived.</div><div><br />We also saw runners that had mentally reached their limit. One runner just sat down on the trail and cried. I asked him if he was injured..he said, 'No.' I asked him if he needed me to send back help and he said, 'Yes.' </div><div></div><div>I felt empathy for this runner.......and the others we passed on the trail. I had great respect for their determination to cover 60-80 miles under these conditions. How could anyone in their situation consider themselves a failure? But, I knew, that they would feel unsuccessful when they finally climbed into bed later that day. That is what I love about this sport.......the people that compete in ultra-endurance are such quality people......such determined souls, that they feel <em>unsuccessful </em>when they cannot finish more than 80 miles in a high-altitude mountain race. That says it all right there....this sport isn't for everyone.</div><div><br />At mile 87, thing were looking up. The sun was rising and the rain had stopped. Our bodies were numb so we didn't realize we were cold anymore. The only problem was the pressure from the clock.......and we never knew how close we were to that daunting cut-off. On approach to the aid station, Cindy appeared on the road. She started firing out questions and asking what we needed. I didn't have the strength to answer or articulate our 'needs'. Afterall, the list was extensive and I just wanted to sit down. Ladislav needed all sorts of shit, including at warm shower, 12 hours sleep, a massage, three meals, warm clothes, 800 mg ibruprofen, etc....That's why these questions of 'what do you need' seemed so ridiculous to me.</div><div><br /><br />It's so funny during the latter stages of a long race...crew or spectators ask simple questions to runners. And, as a pacer or runner, all I can think about is the 'true' answer to the question....for instance:</div><div><br />Mile 47, San Diego 1 Day '05: </div><div>Q(Jen): What do you need?<br />A(Jerry): I NEED HELP! HELP ME!</div><div><br /><br />Mile 37, PCT 50, '07: </div><div>Q(Cindy): Do you want Red Bull?</div><div>A(Jerry): I HATE REDBULL! STICK IT UP YOUR ASS!</div><div><br /><br />Ladislav and I reluctantly exited the tent at mile 87. We started running down the trail and Ladislav informed me that we were about to climb 'the second most difficult mountain' of the race. My thought? Crap! I forgot to take ibruprofen at the aid station!</div><div><br />The climb came fast...but we didn't climb it fast. I think it was more like a freight train climbing over the continental divide. The sort of speed that makes you wonder if you're going backwards......or perhaps influecing the time-space continuum. It seemed like a good time to take a nap, so I was able to get a few minutes of level 1 sleep while we climbed.</div><div><br /><br />The sun continued to move higher in the sky. Ladislav, still determined, pushed harder than he had since I joined him at mile 50. He reached the summit and seemed empowered by the mathmatical certainty that he would finish. </div><div></div><div>We made our way toward Leadville, which was visible from over 10 miles away. The final 5 miles were different that the others. We were climbing a slight grade into town and runners were everywhere. We had caught up to a host of other athletes who were now finishing the race together.<br /></div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248497556669518978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SNZouFXK1II/AAAAAAAAAN4/-AQUY_ieTj8/s320/CIMG0874.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>Another memorable moment came in the final few miles of the race. Ladislav was obviously enjoying the moment.....thinking back over his adventure, and starting to realize some of the incredble experiences we had during the night. Ladislav was a man of few words.....and even more quiet now that he was thinking about all that had happened.</div><br /><div>A British runner, however, that was walking alongside us......was not so quiet. He was chatting up a storm.....and he wanted to tell Ladislav about everything that had happened in his life over the past 2 years. Ladislav, with his strong Czech accent, was doing his best to seal up his chit chat with this British guy. The two accents were worlds apart.........and neither one was interpreting the other right. It was hilarious becasue Ladislav just wanted him to shut up and he just kept asking questions and telling stories. Eventually, Ladislav had to fight his way past and continue on alone.</div><br /><div>In the final mile, Ladislav saw Anton Krupicka standing on the sideline. Anton is the course record holder of the Leadville 100.......he became injured earlier in the year and did not run the race this year. Ladislav called out to Anton, "Anton! I finished!"</div><div></div><div>Ladislav cried happy tears. He told me he would not run in the final few hundred yards because he had been walking for two miles. I said, "You have to run!" He did. </div><br /><div>And he finished too.</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SNZpFRkBoTI/AAAAAAAAAOA/ViAa85JQVwc/s1600-h/CIMG0881.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248497955081658674" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SNZpFRkBoTI/AAAAAAAAAOA/ViAa85JQVwc/s320/CIMG0881.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248498247355569026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SNZpWSXjk4I/AAAAAAAAAOI/unniBiRnwbY/s320/CIMG0885.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SNZpzxHQswI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/C0jwVSnCuEc/s1600-h/CIMG0886.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248498753824928514" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SNZpzxHQswI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/C0jwVSnCuEc/s320/CIMG0886.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SNZqFfJosUI/AAAAAAAAAOY/zfWgC0E5QK0/s1600-h/CIMG0887.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248499058240696642" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SNZqFfJosUI/AAAAAAAAAOY/zfWgC0E5QK0/s320/CIMG0887.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><br />By the way....only about 180 runners finished Leadville this year out of 550.</div><div></div><div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-13044962812580440232008-08-03T16:16:00.000-07:002008-08-03T17:08:28.067-07:00Bulldog Revisited<p><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy7MS2PW7KTupa1pp8oJ_vqp9KfqDjziUGKyaf-rygpkIC_TvVRSPheWtCExRrxAC0gA_MvSgYsbt3iMkg3hQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></p><p>Posted by popular demand...this video documents the 2006 Bulldog 50k Trail Run in Malibu, CA. </p><p>The race was well organized and enjoyable in every way. The post-race party is awesome with pizza and age group awards and plenty of give-aways. Competition is thick, with starting fields in the neighborhood of 150. Front runners lead the pack up and over Bulldog Mountain to the 7 1/2 mile aid station...then back down the mountain for a second loop up and over. One water crossing is possible near the end of the loop, but it depends on current conditions. High temps are often a factor and the morning sun sneaks up on runners as they climb the fireroads to the peak of Bulldog mountain at miles 7 1/2 and 15. Much of the course is exposed and, if the sun is out, prepare yourself for some ruthless heat.</p><p>Great places to stay include the Malibu RV Park and campground, which provides a scenic overlook of Malibu beaches. Keep your eye out for Hollywood types....they tend to frequent this haughty area. You'll see more than a couple exotic convertables during your visit.</p><p>This year's race is upcoming and hopefully this video will help those of you preparing to attempt the Bulldog 50k for the first time.</p><p>Feel free to contact us with any questions about this event.</p><p>Enjoy!</p><p>-Team E.R.F.</p>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-2647577815777619232008-08-01T18:27:00.001-07:002008-08-01T18:34:59.903-07:00Karnazes vs. KourosTeam E.R.F. has always been supportive of Dean Karnazes and his efforts to develop a career out of ultrarunning. And over the past couple years I have found myself in the position of trying to explain what it is about Dean that some ultrarunners don't like. I do not wish to be involved in any sort of Dean-bashing nor do I plan to champion all of his decisions as a businessman. I do, however, wish to provide you with a view "from the other side" as presented by Wyatt on his blog, "There are no limits...ever."<br /><br /><a href="http://nolimitsever.blogspot.com/2008/03/kouros-v-mr-faker.html">http://nolimitsever.blogspot.com/2008/03/kouros-v-mr-faker.html</a><br /><br />Link over and read Wyatt's article about Dean, and, if you have time...leave a comment on the bottom indicating your dissent or support.<br /><br />-JerryAnonymousnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-41124169181949310832008-07-21T10:09:00.001-07:002008-07-21T11:18:47.965-07:00Leadville Silver Rush 50 Mile: Race ReportI ran the Silver Rush 50 Mile this past weekend in Leadville, CO. It was my first event in the state and definately the first time at running above 10,000'. I arranged a carpool partner through the Boulder Trail Runners email list and drove up to Leadville with "Nick Pedatella." <div><div><div><div><div><div><div><br /></div><div>We arrived in Leadville on Saturday at about noon. The small town of Leadville is incredibly special and unique. The town resembles that of the late 1800s with very little change, except for the cars. This mining town went through various phases of development in it's rich history. It started as a gold mining town and then silver. Other mining took place later for other valuable metals and minerals.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SITHCafrvxI/AAAAAAAAAL4/8Klf6JbqTe8/s1600-h/CIMG0303.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225520311942496018" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SITHCafrvxI/AAAAAAAAAL4/8Klf6JbqTe8/s320/CIMG0303.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div></div><div>Today, it seems the town of Leadville survives on the tourism industry...basically sports like hiking, mountain biking, running, fishing, and camping. For this reason, I believe, the towns people are incredibly warm to the idea of 100 mile races and 50 mile mountain runs.<br /><br /></div><div><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>I calculated that approximately 800 people were brought into Leadville for the weekend for the 50 mile MTB race on Saturday and 50 mile ultra on Sunday. Unlike ultras in large metropolitan areas, athletes visiting Leadville for the weekend WILL spend their money in Leadville......because there isn't anywhere else to go! But that is ok, because Leadville is very enjoyable as a weekend destination. </div><div></div><div></div><div>The one great thing for athletes participating in events in Leadville is that they know how to put a race on. Everything was well organized, from registration to awards. The race was professional and the staff made it look easy. I watched several of the mountain bike riders finish their race on Saturday and noted the loudspeaker announcing each finisher as they crossed the line. <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SITHcQ1BJ-I/AAAAAAAAAMA/ZayKvpxmdqk/s1600-h/CIMG0309.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225520756024223714" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SITHcQ1BJ-I/AAAAAAAAAMA/ZayKvpxmdqk/s320/CIMG0309.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><div>The announcer would proudly exclaim the name of the finisher and the city they were from. The crowd of anxious family, friends, and spectators, waited at the finish and clapped and yelled as each finisher arrived. I couldn't help but compare this exciting finish line to the sheer opposite I experienced last year at a 50 mile race when, after finishing in silence, the race director held up his hands and said, "You can stop running now."<br /><br /><br />On Sunday morning at 6am, the race started promptly. Approximately 120 runners toed the line. The announcer told us that the race would start with a sprint up the first hill (which was appoximately 50' at 20% grade). According to the rules, the first male and first female up the hill would earn a special silver coin. Next, someone fired a rifle, and we started up the hill. I didn't see many people "sprinting" but there was one runner that was obviously charging as hard as he could. I'll leave his name out of this report, because his initial balls-to-the-wall run up the hill later turned into a slow slumber when he reluctantly gave up 1st position at only 10 miles. I was told he, "Blew up hard." </div><div></div><div>RACE DESCRIPTION DETAILS: </div><div></div><div></div><div>The entire race takes place above 10,000' on dirt roads. Much of the road surface is worn down and overgrown making it more like a trail than an actual road. The course was out-and-back. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225521958363713426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SITIiP5Fz5I/AAAAAAAAAMI/-40wT3eyfo8/s320/CIMG0360.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /></div><div>The first 10 miles are a gradual climb up to 12,000' It became quite steep in the final push to the 12,000' mark where we made a hard left turn and started down hill on a wide road for about 3 miles. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225522873143788610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SITJXftqBEI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/KfbzY2PeoU0/s320/CIMG0367.JPG" border="0" /><br /></div><div>Aid stations were available quite often, which seemed to vary between 4 and 7 miles. I started the race with two large hand-held bottles and quckly learned that I could dump much of my fluid because the aid stations were so frequent. (Which is a good thing) A few of the aid stations were just tables with water/electrolyte coolers. They were set-up in between the larger full-service aid stations.<br /><br /></div><br /><div>The course goes up and over the first climb at about 12,000' and then drops back down to about 10,200'. It then climbs back up to about 12,000' at a higher grade which served to be the more difficult pass. This was referred to as the "saddle at Ball Mountain." The two high points of the race are at about 10 miles and 20 miles. Of course, the return required us to climb the same passses at miles 30 and 40. The entire race is incredibly beautiful and allowed us to take our minds off the pain by gazing off into the distance at incredible scenery.<br /><br /><br /></div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225524177292619506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SITKjaC97vI/AAAAAAAAAMY/_P4pf_DM0H0/s320/CIMG0375.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><div></div>Nick passed me in 1st place when I was still a few miles from the turn around. He was very focused and absolutely flying down the hill. He had a huge smile on his face and I took a quick photo to remember the moment. I didn't see the second place runner for at least 2 miles. Nick was on fire and I couldn't wait to see if he could maintain that pace.<br /></div><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225524888944785746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SITLM1KEOVI/AAAAAAAAAMg/jV1GqCo58D0/s320/CIMG0399.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><div></div>Coming into this event, I decided not to taper. Being new to Colorado, my intention for "running" the event was merely to experiment with the high elevation and take lots of photos. It is a ton of fun when you throw out the competition and just enjoy the day. I should do it more often!<br /><br /><br /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225526389496402994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SITMkLJc1DI/AAAAAAAAAMw/aFQZOZ5DMhQ/s320/CIMG0388.JPG" border="0" /><br />Speaking again about the course itself...I think the course would be quite easy if it had taken place at sea level. Afterall, there is only about 8,000' of elevation loss/gain. The difficulty factor for this race is ELEVATION. I have become somewhat acclimated to elevation up to about 7,000' but I feel the elevation about 10,000' significantly. At 12,000', I work hard to walk fast. This even would be incredibly difficult for someone coming from sea level.</div><br /><br /><div></div><div>At the end of the day, I crossed the finish line in 8:59. The announcer encouraged me to run harder in the last seconds so I could break 9 hours...which I did enthusiatically. Nick was immediately there to celebrate. He finished the race in first place and had received a special trophy for the accomplishment. Nick finished in 7:26...an incredible time for his first ultra! The women's race was won by Lynette Clemons in 8:03...another incredibly fast time.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225528075629171330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SITOGUe1EoI/AAAAAAAAAM4/2zmMx3Y1VZk/s320/CIMG0414.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><br />All in all, it was a great race and a true adventure. For anyone considering this event, I encourage you to do so. Keep the elevation in mind, but don't let it stop you from making the trek out to Leadville. The beauty makes up for the pain and you will go home happy you made the trip.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225528998411599842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SITO8CHTf-I/AAAAAAAAANA/kmFm5nahROg/s320/CIMG0409.JPG" border="0" /><br /></div><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-81234265930907285652008-07-20T19:27:00.000-07:002008-07-20T20:28:29.131-07:00Interview with Nick Pedatella: 2008 Silver Rush 50 Mile Champion<p><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyMUNCYaKtwVd8xEtpgYHNPCPjJtIdMDMNj7BjDMB-KR1jtZ4P4dphT6SLrqX21AN2-3Y_W6baUJ23WHZFO' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></p><p>A brief interview with 2008 Silver Rush 50 mile Champion Nick Pedatella</p><p>The inaugural Silver Rush 50 Mile Ultramarathon at Leadville took place on July20, 2008. I had the pleasure of carpooling with Nick and sharing a motel room with him the night before the event. This 50 mile race would serve as Nick's first ultra and I shared several pieces of advice with him the day before the race. Nick told me the night before the race that he would, "ideally like to run a sub-8 hour race." </p><p>Trying not to discourage the young man's plans, I told him, "If you run a sub-8 hour race, you will win."</p><p>Ignoring most of my advice about having a pace plan and carrying more than one bottle, Nick tore out of the starting line amongst approximately 120 other ultrarunners. He ran in second place for most of the first 10 miles and then took his position as race leader. He would not relinquish this position for the remainder of the event. Nick maintained a torrid pace for the entire 50 miles even though he was no longer challenged by any other competitors. This 50 miles consisted of approximately 8,000' of elevation gain/loss and took place at high elevations above 10,000'. Nick told me off camera that he, "Didn't really feel the elevation that much."</p><p>Nick finished the race unofficially in 7 hours 26 minutes, which calculates to a sub-9 min/mile for the entire event. At least Nick followed one piece of advice...run a sub-8 and win.</p><p>Congratulations Nick! Keep up the great work.</p><p>-Jerry and Team E.R.F.</p>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-39349337184133569692008-07-14T22:16:00.000-07:002008-07-15T09:27:34.791-07:00ORDER Recover-easeWe were first introduced to Recover-ease through our close friends at <a href="http://www.therundown.net/">http://www.therundown.net/</a> Since we started using the product, we have seen proven results through a more rapid recovery after long training sessions. We stand by this product 100% and encourage you to try a bottle of Recover-ease. Recovery science is vital to success in endurance sports...experiment with a bottle of Recover-ease and realize the incredible benefits for yourself! (More information about Recover-ease)<a href="http://endurance4life.blogspot.com/2008/07/recover-ease-information.html"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223105688464893650" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SHwy81FFptI/AAAAAAAAALM/XmrF4jAJG2c/s320/Recoverease" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://www.therundown.net/the_run_down/2008/05/recover-ease-pr.html">RECOVER-ease Pricing</a><br />FRESH LEGS IN A BOTTLE. GOTTA LOVE SCIENCE!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.therundown.net/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/03/04/re_sw_3.jpg"></a><br />There are three options for ordering RECOVER-ease.<br /><br /></div><div>1. Single bottle 30 day supply @ $34.95<br /></div><div><strong>(FREE shipping on Single bottle)</strong><br /></div><div>2. Two (2) bottles @ $29.95 each = $59.90<br />3. Four (4) bottles @ $26.65 each = $106.60<br /></div><br /><div><strong></strong></div><br /><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong>How to Place an Order</strong></div><br /><div>Send an email to <a href="mailto:endurancejer@gmail.com">endurancejer@gmail.com</a> with the quantity of RECOVER-ease bottles you want. Include your name and mailing address. OK, how hard is that?<br /></div><br /><div><strong></strong></div><br /><div><strong></strong></div><br /><div><strong></strong></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223277812681561474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SHzPfxwQVYI/AAAAAAAAALc/opvfZ_NKleY/s320/Visamastercard.gif" border="0" /><br /><div><strong></strong></div><br /><div><strong>Payment Options</strong></div><br /><div>Once we process your order, you'll receive an email invoice from PayPal. Click the provided pay link to finalize the transaction. PayPal allows you to use credit cards, debit cards or a bank account. If you don't have a PayPal account (free) you should. It's the safest, most secure and easiest way to purchase things on-line. Or, if you prefer making a payment by check, you can print out the emailed PayPal invoice and mail it, along with your check to the remit address.<br />Shipping & HandlingProduct is shipped from Southern California. The fee typically ranges between $2.95 and $4.95 depending on weight and distance. Exact amount will be listed on your email invoice. We do ship internationally.<br />Note: Energ-ease and Intense Defense also available. Feel free to inquire.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-68692467753043043312008-07-14T22:11:00.000-07:002008-07-15T09:21:57.033-07:00Recover-ease INFORMATIONTeam E.R.F. was first introduced to Recover-ease earlier this year. We quickly discovered that taking Recover-ease immediately after training reduced recovery time greatly. Using this product in conjunction with other forms of recovery including cold-water soak and/or self-massage will reduce your recovery time as well. We stand by this product 100% and encourage you to experiment with a bottle of Recover-ease for yourself.<a href="http://endurance4life.blogspot.com/2008/07/order-recover-ease.html"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223105229676516354" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SHwyiH9alAI/AAAAAAAAALE/r97cYqI362g/s320/Recoverease" border="0" /></a> You will not find this product in stores and it's availablilty is limited to only a few sole distributors. (See below for further details on Recover-ease)<br /><br /><div><br /><a href="http://www.therundown.net/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/03/04/re_sw_3.jpg"></a></div><div><strong>RECOVER-ease Product Info</strong><br />This following RECOVER-ease information is for the detail oriented.<a href="http://www.therundown.net/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/01/25/recover_ease.jpg"> </a><br /></div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://endurance4life.blogspot.com/2008/07/order-recover-ease.html">RECOVER-ease</a> is a scientific, patent-pending balance of 8 research proven ingredients designed to enhance your body’s ability to recover following exercise.<br />What RECOVER-ease Does:<a href="http://www.therundown.net/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/01/25/recover_ease_whitebkgd_4.jpg"> </a>• Promotes recovery from exercise • Accelerates tissue repair• Reduces inflammation & soreness• Balances stress hormones• Reduces muscle breakdown• Improves immune function<br />How Recovery-ease Works:<br />1. BCAAs & Glutimine – The proper 3:1:1 balance of Branch Chain Amino Acids with Glutamine benefits athletes by maintaining immune function and reducing upper respiratory tract infections.<br />2. Beta-sitosterol – Normalizes the ratio of cortisol (a stress hormone) with DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), to reduce muscle breakdown and accelerate connective tissue repair; muscle, tendons, ligaments and cartilage.<br />3. Proteolytic Enzymes & Flavonoids – Reduce inflammation and oxidation free radical damage, resulting in less exercised-induced tissue damage, accelerated rates of tissue repair, and reduced post-exercise pain & stiffness.<br /></div><br /><br /><div><strong>WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?</strong><br />At the American College of Sports Medicine’s 2004 Annual Scientific Meeting, <a href="http://endurance4life.blogspot.com/2008/07/order-recover-ease.html">RECOVER-ease</a> was shown to significantly improve recovery in endurance athletes. Study results were presented to show that following extreme endurance competition, supplementation with RECOVER-ease led to:<br />-52% reduction in Fatigue-51% reduction in Muscle Soreness-38% increase in Energy-24% boost in Mental Function-20% boost in Immune Function-16% increase in Overall Mood<br />Researchers concluded that, “Adequate recovery is important for competitive athletes, not only for the obvious benefits of being able to train and compete at a higher level, but also for the less obvious benefits of protecting the athlete from overtraining illness and injury."<br /></div><br /><br /><div><strong>WHY RECOVERY IS IMPORTANT</strong><br />AS many as 60% to 70% of marathoners, cyclists and triathletes will suffer an upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) or over-training injury as a direct result of his/her training regimen.<br />Intense Training & Competition can:<a href="http://www.therundown.net/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/01/25/recover_ease_whitebkgd_7.jpg"> </a><br />1. Reduce blood & tissue levels of glutamine, leading to:a. Reduced immune system activityb. Increased infection<br />2. Increase cortisol and reduce DHEA levels, leading to:a. Accelerated muscle catabolism or breakdownb. Reduced protein synthesis and sex drive (yikes!)c. Reduced ability for tissue repaird. Increased risk for injury<br />3. Cause tissue damage and generate free radicals, leading to:a. Muscle micro-trauma, inflammation & sorenessb. Cellular damage and dysfunctionc. Reduced power outputd. Reduced endurance performance<br />Solution = take <a href="http://endurance4life.blogspot.com/2008/07/order-recover-ease.html">RECOVER-ease</a> to maintain post-exercise immune function, promote post-exercise hormone balance and facilitate post-exercise tissue repair.<br /><strong>USAGE RECOMMENDATIONS</strong><br />During normal periods of training, consume 4 capsules with water or sports drink immediately following exercise.<br />Following competition or during periods of intense training, consume 8 capsules with water or sports drink immediately following competition or training.<br />Many athletes will use 4 capsules/day for the month leading up to competition, followed by 8 capsules/day for the critical two weeks following competition.<br />Dope-Free<br />Each and every batch of RECOVER-ease raw material and finished product is analyzed by independent certified analytical laboratories to confirm the absence of stimulants, steroids and any other prohibited substance.<br /><a href="http://endurance4life.blogspot.com/2008/07/order-recover-ease.html">To order RECOVER-ease CLICK HERE.</a><br />Recover-ease is Manufactured by Wicked Fast Sports Nutrition and not available in stores.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-71693103320653081842008-07-11T16:04:00.000-07:002008-07-11T16:27:08.156-07:00Run with me.<p><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzylsIKh9e5-qcKVvfJlFsT2edy0ICXraxFpVvMMrKKroft0XQwHVeSHwXaaf5pRtCMxQN5L2Yh__74ku9u9Q' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></p><p><strong> Boulder's Cowdre Draw Trail</strong> </p><p><em> July 11, 2008., 2pm, 100 degrees.</em></p>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-64609385513694447632008-07-11T11:06:00.000-07:002008-07-11T11:55:40.244-07:00Get Up, Get Out!<p> </p><p><em><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">A short video to send to all your lazy friends that vomit excuses every time you invite them to run with you!</span></strong></em></p><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzHvEOyHnNy20SuNFKKPh_Rf3xPlLctasx5ko_tAe4thTXtNqTYvJoT8d7G80lCtOWZaoo-R1u3w6iDCmUAnQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-20358564397918049072008-07-06T21:31:00.000-07:002008-07-07T22:47:42.300-07:00Leadville's Hope Pass<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyyOrQGWZq9ufU3n0v9vu-vtMWqhm7jniak6P_BNnm_3IYGL_u2jxNnKylFV71F7X6aWUaJ5jrV0CrpzmT2tw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><em><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Hope Pass: Training Run Movie<br /></span></strong></em><br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:180%;"></span><div>So, I've been a Colorado resident for 3 whole weeks...and I thought it was time to get familiar with what this place really has to offer endurance athletes. I headed up to Leadville for a short training run with my fellow "Boulder Trail Runners."<br /><div><br /><br /><p>The plan was to climb "Hope Pass," which tops out at about 12,700', run down the other side and then climb up and over again and return to the cars. Sound easy enough...until I had to face the fact that my sea-level lungs were not prepared for such an adventure:</p><br /><br /><br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwenT_N0sTdERkjTjCFpFG5ebsuPz-9ItWgMyOdYk42agkIWK8_YG1EjTkK3mVPMir3OY19MSvJw2vcenwuLQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /><br /><p><em><strong>(Internal Conversations...."Is my Garmin reading right? It says we "ran" a mere 12 miles in 4 1/2 hours? WhaT would they say at <a href="http://www.therundown.net/">The Run Down?</a> Why are my hands swelling? Where did this pounding headache come from? Blood!? )&#)*$!@ SNOW?")</strong></em></p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SHGgiQWc3wI/AAAAAAAAAJM/iyaRTh8Bvvs/s1600-h/CIMG0127.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220129953464246018" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SHGgiQWc3wI/AAAAAAAAAJM/iyaRTh8Bvvs/s320/CIMG0127.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />After reaching the summit, we rested for about 5 minutes and ran down the south side. What had taken us an hour to ascend took less than half that time to descend. We then headed back up the south side toward the summit again.<br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><br /><br /><p>Climbing back up and over the summit was more difficult this time. The altitude started to make me feel tired. I developed a pounding headache and my peripheral vision started to look funky... Ultrarunning rules.<br /><br /></p><p>I eventually completed the training run and survived my first real taste of Colorado ultrarunning...After today, I realize that this place is more beautiful than I ever imagined. <br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SHGj8YhEuLI/AAAAAAAAAJc/mwYyQOEYr0w/s1600-h/CIMG0105.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220133700867766450" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SHGj8YhEuLI/AAAAAAAAAJc/mwYyQOEYr0w/s320/CIMG0105.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></p><p></p><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><br /><br /><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SHGhD3hmVXI/AAAAAAAAAJU/KD4A5iWqdHM/s1600-h/CIMG0187.JPG"></a></p></div></div><br /><br /><br /><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SHGhD3hmVXI/AAAAAAAAAJU/KD4A5iWqdHM/s1600-h/CIMG0187.JPG"></a></p>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-50412291725534454532008-07-04T13:24:00.000-07:002008-07-04T13:47:29.879-07:005 Reasons Colorado is Ultrarunning Heaven:<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SG6L23UsXuI/AAAAAAAAAI0/EipBjJ0tis0/s1600-h/hr96h.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219262792848924386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SG6L23UsXuI/AAAAAAAAAI0/EipBjJ0tis0/s320/hr96h.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SG6LjVkV4fI/AAAAAAAAAIs/zR_x5hj7qUE/s1600-h/1475874485_d3fa13fdf4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219262457370239474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SG6LjVkV4fI/AAAAAAAAAIs/zR_x5hj7qUE/s320/1475874485_d3fa13fdf4.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SG6Lciemn7I/AAAAAAAAAIk/GkssYL6FzwM/s1600-h/Colorado-Winter-Fantasy.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219262340576747442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SG6Lciemn7I/AAAAAAAAAIk/GkssYL6FzwM/s320/Colorado-Winter-Fantasy.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219261596675802882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SG6KxPOzBwI/AAAAAAAAAIU/BFmmNftQo_Y/s320/rocky-mountains-poster.jpg" border="0" /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SG6LJ5S8gII/AAAAAAAAAIc/a6eoa8mDoQo/s1600-h/Boulder-Colorado.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219262020284350594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SG6LJ5S8gII/AAAAAAAAAIc/a6eoa8mDoQo/s320/Boulder-Colorado.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I moved here 3 weeks ago and every attempt at writing something clever to explain how I feel has failed. But realize that these pictures represent the beauty that is found throughout Colorado...and they clearly explain what I cannot in words.<br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-41965959217465508772008-07-04T12:40:00.001-07:002008-07-04T12:58:20.406-07:00Badwater 2007Better late than never...Here is a video I created for Monica Otero after she completed Badwater last year. ..<br /><br />Our team was 1/2 American and 1/2 Brazilian...an interesting mix when you consider the fact that we speak different languages!<br /><br /><p><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz-UPQUAIiIBIn00FDGlK-ARuoE5_39VCL1ntMl3JdaNpDumfhjKuh_RBko8GKpfLcI8ql2RJkY5vKSw7yhzg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></p><p> </p><p> </p>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-13825201299901506132008-06-01T12:41:00.000-07:002008-06-03T17:21:57.331-07:00Dean's 50-50-50<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SEMCIRVVd1I/AAAAAAAAAH0/rEqfGu685D4/s1600-h/images.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207007935285524306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="110" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SEMCIRVVd1I/AAAAAAAAAH0/rEqfGu685D4/s320/images.jpg" width="187" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>This past Thursday, I participated in a training run from La Jolla to Encinitas along the 101. The occassion was the premier showing of a documentary film about Dean Karnazes' Endurance 50. </div><br /><br /><div></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SETCWRVVd2I/AAAAAAAAAH8/ixv3bSS41ro/s1600-h/P1010006.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207500757012936546" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SETCWRVVd2I/AAAAAAAAAH8/ixv3bSS41ro/s320/P1010006.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>An eclectic group of athletes had been assembled for this training run, including Ferge Hawke, David Goggins, Akos Konya, Arctic Mike Pierce, and several others. Credit goes to Keith Kirby for organizing this one, of course. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Rumors were that Dean would be joining us with his film crew...a last minute change occurred and Dean's schedule conflicted with our timeline. Nonetheless, we took off on the run and headed up north toward the La Paloma Theatre in Encinitas. The event was hosted by TCSD and Bob Babbit of Competitor Radio. </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Arriving at the theatre was entertaining...there was a long line of people waiting to enter the theatre. We, as ultrarunners, stuck out in the crowd. I must admit that I enjoy being a part of the ultrarunning community. The difference cannot be explained between triathletes and ultrarunners, it can only be experienced. Once someone makes the transition into ultrarunning from either road running or triathlon, they inevitably become part of a whole new experience. </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>The documentary covered Dean's effort to run 50 marathons in all 50 states over 50 consecutive days. The physical accomplishment itself? Not that impressive to me. Dean's endurance resume is chock full of feats that make this one a walk in the park. But, I realize that most people conceptualize the mighty marathon distance as being extremely difficult...and the idea of running 50 of them must be crazy and inspiring. For these reasons, I acknowledge what made us ultrarunners different from the rest of the crowd in the theatre.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>The film was entertaining and inspiring. It showed various states and the different environments the marathon's were held. One poignant part of the film showed Dean running alone with one female runner in South Dakota. I'm sure that was a very memorable run for her, and Dean.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Comments from several people after the film confirmed my feelings that it ran a bit long. JB Benna, the film's producer later told me it was only 105 minutes. The crowd of Type-As would have probably enjoyed it much more if they were running on a treadmill during that time. (Afterall, it's hard for a group like that to sit any longer than 20 minutes!) JB Benna, the producer, filmed much of the adventure by himself while running. I appreciate that and I sent him an email to say so. I also told him to call me should he need another running videographer! </div><br /><br /><div><br />Anyway, good job Dean. I know many more thousands of people will be inspired to take up running after watching the film. I know it is having a positive impact. Good job as well to "Journey Film" and JB Benna for making a film about running. To all the folks at <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.journeyfilm.com">JourneyFilm</a>, keep up the great work! Thanks for telling the world about this great sport of ours!</div><br /><br /><div>-Jer</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-58016199592861459392008-05-28T11:12:00.000-07:002008-05-28T11:45:11.731-07:00Western States Training Weekend<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SD2oHRVVd0I/AAAAAAAAAHs/PUiSxNeIBUs/s1600-h/DSCF0012banner.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5205501587175601986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SD2oHRVVd0I/AAAAAAAAAHs/PUiSxNeIBUs/s320/DSCF0012banner.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Last Friday, I flew up to Sacramento and met my good friend Pat Knoff. We rented a car and headed up to the small town of Foresthill for the 3-day WS100 training weekend. As we headed up the mountain, it became obvious that our plan of sleeping outside the car was not going to work. Dark clouds were approaching from all angles. Pat stated the obvious, "We should have brought a tent."<br /><br />For the next hour, we drove around Auburn trying to find a Big 5 or something similar. We were so happy, and relieved, when we finally walked inside a Big 5 Sporting Goods store and laid our hands on a sales rack of tents, "FOR ONLY $24.99." The decision to buy a $25 tent would become regrettable.<br /><br />That night, the cold rain poured out of the sky. Pat and I tried to find comfort in our plastic tent, which we set up on the soccer field of Foresthill Middle School. It was a 3 man tent, so there should have been plenty of room, right? Well, it wasn't the size of the tent. The warrant was evidently very limited and after using the zipper one time, it broke. The door flap laid open and throughout the night, cold rain found its way into our plastic home. Everything was soaked by morning and we had to use what clothes we had in the car. We never thawed out...the rain continued and we moped on the bus to get ready for the 30 mile training run.<br /><br />The bus ride was about an hour long. They dropped us off near mile 38 of the WS100 course. The wind was bitter cold and the rain never stopped. We tried to convince ourselves it was worth it, but honestly, we were just miserable. Fortunately, we had about 300 other runners to be miserable with. Then we all set off down the access road to start from 'Dusty Corners' aid station. The sloppy mud and rain kept up for the next 7 hours. We were frozen to the bone and completly soaked. One runner broke an ankle, then developed hypothermia because he couldn't get back to the aid station for help.<br /><br />Now that it's over, I'm glad we did it. But, at the time, it was quite uncomfortable. Needless to say, Pat and I scrapped the tent idea and drove straight to a Super 8 Motel. We rented a room for the next two nights. Then we proceeded to our rooms and took turns taking 40 minute showers. Only then were we able to relax and put warm clothes on. What an experience...I love ultra. That night, Tim Twietmeyer and company hosted a discussion on the course and proper preparation. They covered various topics...most of which revolved around getting enough sleep and not surging in the race. (Both of which I somehow fail to do during every race.)<br /><br />The next day, we ran from Foresthill...approximately mile 62 on the course (where pacers join runners in the race). The weather cleared and the sun came out. It was a beautiful day and one of the best training runs of my life. From mile 62-82 on the Ws100 course, it is nothing but magical. The single track is in perfect condition....dark green trees line the course and there are several water crossings. Rivers line this section as well...it was worth the misery of the day before. The course had a slight decline, which provided the perfect situation to just let loose and fly down the trail. We ran entirely too hard, completely in violation of my plans to 'continue tapering' for the San Diego 100 mile on June 7/8.<br /><br />On Day 3, I decided to face the fact that the San Diego 100 was within two weeks....and my taper required me to stop running. Pat ran the last 20 miles of the course and sharply pulled out just before entering the famous Placerville H.S. stadium. Pat was lucky enough to get selected in the lottery for this year's race, so he will get to finish accordingly soon enough. I, of course, didn't get in through the lottery......perhaps next year under the new rules.<br /><br />I would highly recommend the Ws100 training weekend to any runners considering Ws100. My suggestion is to rent a motel room for the three nights and just have a car to navigate between starting points. The Super 8 in Auburn was close by and had adequate facilities for about $90/night. They also had a pool and jacuzzi for post-run relaxation. You can pay for each day's training run on that day and take advantage of the aid stations. It was a true vacation from reality...especially for ultrarunners that want to be around like-minded people. Tent camping might sound like fun from the comfort of your living room, but realize the weather could be awful and you could end up like Pat and I....cold, wet, and sad.<br /><br />Happy Trails.<br /><br />Jerry</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6045734485027517858.post-42289712999013412772008-05-16T12:31:00.000-07:002008-05-19T19:56:44.185-07:00COLORADO BOUND<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SC3klcBo6pI/AAAAAAAAAHk/mJvWOGppX-A/s1600-h/wyoming-rocky-mountains.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201064476512152210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DYrt345J8kg/SC3klcBo6pI/AAAAAAAAAHk/mJvWOGppX-A/s400/wyoming-rocky-mountains.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>On June 10th, I will be relocating to the area of Boulder, Colorado! I would love to say that it is purely for endurance training, but there are actually other valid reasons! (Although I almost piss my pants every time I think about running through the Rocky Mountains...)<br /><br />First off, California just cost too much. A $600,000 house? Come on... It's plywood and drywall! I'll actually be able to afford my life in Colorado...and run at elevation! Ok ok...this is a running blog so I'll state the facts AS THEY PERTAIN TO RUNNING.<br /><br />Dude, I'm going to be living at about 6'000 feet. The rocky mountains will be about 15 minutes from my house. I truly believe that leaving the San Diego ultrarunning scene for Colorado is not a hard decision. I want to stay in contact with all my SoCal ultrarunning friends in any way I can. I want everyone to know they are welcome to visit and crash on my couch. And, of course, I plan to visit San Diego regularly and take full advantage of my elevation training.<br /><br />It's a very exciting and stressful time for my wife and I right now. We will be like nomads throughout June and hopefully have a house by July. The plan is to rent at first and get things established.<br /><br />I'll post info on my blog as thing happen, with hopes of keeping my buddies updated. Wish us luck ")<br /><br />Here's my new email address: <a href="mailto:endurancejer@gmail.com">endurancejer@gmail.com</a><br /><br />-Jerry</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1