Sunday, November 20, 2016

One Foot in Front of the Other: Time for a New Chapter

Last winter Ginger and I found out that she was pregnant. I was in the middle of training for Umstead 100. This wasn't a surprise. We'd had all the normal talks about starting a family. But, we were lucky. Things happened quickly. I suspected they would. Not out of any kind of bravado or whatever. I just had that feeling. I figured: Start "trying" now and things will happen at a good time (not during summer 100 season ha ha). And I was right. Ginger ended up pacing me at Umstead a few weeks pregnant. We couldn't tell anyone yet, so it was really interesting. Brett and I ran the first 50 of Umstead together. And, I was DYING to tell him. Heck, we ran together for 8ish hours. At some point, you run low on topics. And I had a great one. That had to stay secret. Anyway it was really cool. Ginger had an awesome pregnancy. Life was grand. 9 months flew by. The due date of November 23rd starting coming like a freight train. We had gotten as ready as we could logistically (crib, car seats, clothes, diapers, etc--) thanks to the incredible generosity of our  amazing family and friends  We are so grateful!! Being logistically ready and ready to be responsible for a life that had been purely theoretical (I wasn't actually growing a baby inside me-- Ginger was) for 9 months are different things though.

As the calendar clicked to November, time started feeling like it was moving faster. Then, on November 8, things kicked into hyperdive. The boy was going to show up early. And show up early he did. The birth was the most amazing thing I have ever been a part of. I stand in complete awe of Ginger. I'll never understand how she was able to pull that off. Her birth story is an amazing one. Ask her about it sometime. I'm sure she'd by happy to share it with you.

In the end Paul Thomas Stewart joined us on November 10, 2016 as an unexpected, but most welcome, present for the Marine Corps Birthday. He is, by far, the greatest thing that has ever happened to me.

Photo Credit Laura Swift


So, a New Chapter Begins. 

How is it possible that Ginger has more energy than me at this point? 

I'm a dad now. I've loved being a lot things in my life. Lacrosse player. Kayaker. Kayak Guide. Friend. Brother. Son. Teacher. Student. Runner. Marine. Husband. Now, we add a new title: Father!

I have to say that it is the title I am most excited to have. Now, I just have to figure out how to live up to it. Like anything I do, I want to be the very best (insert whatever it is) I can possibly be. The stakes have never been higher. As a Marine, I was responsible for myself and others. But, now I'm responsible for a life that Ginger and I created who is totally dependent upon us. That is heavy. It is also amazing.


As I tear into this new chapter, I will carry a lot of the lessons the other titles have taught me. Parents taught me compassion, integrity, empathy, hard work, and too many other things to name. Friends taught me loyalty and the importance of not missing a chance to let them know they're valued. Teaching taught me to think about what others need in new ways. Kayaking taught me to love exploring. The Marine Corps sharpened my sense of honor (if you don't already have it, not even the Marines can give it to you). Scout Sniper school taught me patience. Then, Ultrarunning taught me patience at a whole new level. From running, I have learned to take things one step at a time. As long as we can take one more step, we should. Anyone who's ever run a 100 miles (or even a marathon, really) knows that you can not be successful if you think about trying to get through the whole distance at once. You have to break things down into little bits. For me, when times get the hardest, just putting one foot in front of the other and not thinking beyond that is what works. And that is what I intend to do as Ginger and I write this new chapter. Just put one foot in front of the other. Have a plan for the whole journey. Have a plan for success in the long term. But, most importantly, execute that plan by focusing on one foot at a time.

Here's to the next step, my friends. Looking forward to settling into the new role and continuing to strive to succeed in all of my current ones.

See ya in the mountains. And soon Paul will be in tow learning to adventure. 

Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Grindstone 100 2016 Race Report: Yes, Clark. Pain is, indeed, temporary.



GRINDSTONE 100: PAIN IS TEMPORARY [PRIDE IS FOREVER]

I’ve spent the bulk of the past six months training specifically for Grindstone. This race came onto my radar when I the chance to pace Jordy for the final leg in 2014. I fell in love with the race immediately. It’s a tough, rugged mountain race that pushes people to the limit—and that’s what an ultra SHOULD do. It has a great energy and very welcoming atmosphere. Clark puts on a great race, and the volunteers are amazing. And the course. Man, the course is full of fun. Check out the elevation profile: 



I have been in no rush to do the race. I wanted to wait until I was sure I was ready to go have a good day and really test myself on the course. In 2015, I helped Jordy run the Reddish Knob aid station. Over the last couple of years, I've spent a lot of time doing long runs on the AT and improving my climbing skills. This year was the right time to step up from flatter 100 milers to a mountain 100.

Sean, Chris and I drove up to Swoope Friday morning, and I got checked in and ready to go. After the race meeting, I tried to get some rest before the start. A little before 6, we headed over to the start where I caught up with Ryan and Ben.



Ryan Nebel & Ben Wyrick


It was a little chilly and drizzling rain—basically what has become “Grindstone Weather”—as we stepped off on the Odyssey that is running a 100 miler.

Running with Ryan and Bryan Photo: Sean Raines


 The first few sections went about like I thought they would. I came through Falls Hallow, Dry Branch, and Dowell’s Draft close enough to my expected times that I felt like a good day was a real possibility. I left North River Gap (Mile 37) feeling strong. I popped in an earbud (just one because I always like to listen to the woods around me) and jammed out to music as I pushed my way up the big climb towards the Little Bald Knob aid station. Rage Against the Machine, Fife and the rest of the Tribe, Mandolin Orange, and John Prine (sorry Brett—no Beibs) kept me company and allowed my mind to drift as I tried to stay at my comfortable “all day” pace.

Things progressed about as expected (if only a little slow) until I started coming close to the Reddish Knob punch. The rain and fog were relentless. The course was a mix of standing water, mud, and slick rocks. Even though I had already changed socks twice (thanks Sean!), my feet were starting to have some trouble. I normally don’t have blister issues, so I wanted to be careful and keep it that way. I felt some hot spots on both of the balls of my feet. To stay on top of it, I sat on the muddy trailside and pulled my emergency socks out of my pack and changed them.

Muddy shoes were great for warding off sketchy people at the Econo Lodge after the race


During the race, the shoes were so caked in mud that I didn’t realize that they had holes in them.

Shredded Altra Olympus 2.0 

 Anyway, a quick sock change and I was off to the punch. Then, I rolled to Briery Branch Gap (Mile 51.56) to pick up Chris in 12:17-- about an hour before sunrise. Honestly, I felt great. I was running smart, taking care of my feet, eating, and saving energy. I was moving through aid stations quickly, which was a big focus.  I felt a little tired, but not bad at all. My legs felt strong and I thought, for sure, sub 24 was possible. The sun would be coming up soon and I knew I could make up some time once I was no longer running by headlamp in the fog and rain.

Chris and I started the hike back up from BBG. I wanted to let food settle while we climbed so we could run the ridge back to Little Bald Knob. We moved fairly well for a while, but then I started having some problems that were a bit more serious than just some sore feet. I had been drinking water like it was much warmer out than it was. I was cold, and I started having to go to the bathroom way too often. Clear and copious urine was not the welcome sign it normally is when you’re hydrated at a healthy level. Chris and I progressed to North River Gap (65.33) making OK time (16:13). Four hours was a good bit slower than I wanted for that section, but I knew that I just needed to wake up as the day went on, figure out the hydration thing, and I could pick up the pace again. Then, I started throwing up whenever I ate.

By the time we got to Lookout Mtn (71.68), I was feeling like I was in real trouble. It had been hours since I held any food down and I was feeling weak and shaky. Chris kept reminding me to get some salt on board. He was SO patient with me as I stopped what felt like every 5 minutes to puke or go to the bathroom. About a mile after leaving Lookout Mtn, I got worried. I thought I might need to go back to the AS and try to sort things out. I thought I might need to drop. But, Chris was with me and I knew all I need to do was keep moving to keep warm.

I needed to work the problem and find the solution. In the end that solution was slowing down, taking on salt, laying off the water for a while, and letting go of my time goals and ego.

That was hard.

I had trained so hard for this race. I wanted to have a good day in terms of placement and the clock. But, what I got was something way better: A chance to stare in the abyss, confront failure, and persevere. So, here is how that went down.

Chris helped me remember that I only needed to get to the next aid station. Everything could be re-assessed at Dowell’s Draft (Mile 80.35). At that point, I would only have 21 miles or so to go. And, I would have like 17 hours to do that distance. I decided I would just get to Dowell’s get out of the wet clothes, into a sleeping bag, warm up, and eat. Then, if I needed to nap, I would nap. But I wasn’t going to quit. There was no reason. I had Chris to ensure I was safe, an amazing crew (thanks again Sean, Pawel, and Rick) who would get me dried out, fed, and ready to go.  I knew that Pawel would do a great job of pacing me to the finish.

So, that’s what we did. At Dowell’s, Rick had laid out a tarp. 

Warm clothes and food make all the difference. 
Sean, Pawel, and Rick got me out of the wet clothes and into warm dry clothes. They fed me, pushed the warm coffee, and got me ready to get moving again. No nap needed. No one complained about being out in the rain for the last 20-plus hours. No one complained about how damn slow I was going. No one acted like I was doing anything but well. And, that made all of the difference. I can’t express my gratitude enough.

Once I was dried out and fed, Pawel and I took off towards Dry Branch Gap. 

Getting Pawel the vert I promised him


Up the climb we went. Jordy was right—the business on this course starts at the climb after Dowell's. Pawel told story after story and kept my mind off the weather (that damn rain!!!), the blisters, the shredded qauds, the chaffing (my kingdom for a zip log bag ha ha) and most importantly: The Clock. At Dry Branch, I got a great surprise when I saw that Ginger was there and Brett had driven up to see me too.

Ginger joins the crew in the rain (preggo & everything-- awesome!) 


I felt so lucky to have such great people supporting me that I no longer cared about the clock. I was just happy to be out in the mountains moving steadily and with a purpose towards the finish. And eventually we got there. 29 Hours and 56 minutes later. Almost a full work day longer than I had thought it would take. You would think I might be disappointed. I am not.

You're not a finisher until you hug the totem pole. 




This finish is my proudest moment in terms of running to date. And here is why:

1.     I have never had to look failure so squarely in the face before. I like running ultras because they allow us to test ourselves. We can learn so many lessons from doing things that might result in failure. I will cherish the lessons from Grindstone. The most important one was to really embrace the process and think less about the finish. I love being in the mountains with my friends, and when you get fixated on the finish line you miss out on some of the fun of exploring.

2.     Before the race, Jordy had told me that I needed to have the discipline to race from start to finish. He told me not to allow myself to be broken or become satisfied. Although I was unable to “race” from start to finish, I believe I heeded his advice. I was never satisfied. I never just phoned it in. I ran smart early and when things didn’t go my way I pushed as hard as I could just to finish. That doesn’t mean I went fast. But I never let myself just slog or give up. I moved with a purpose—even when I didn’t want to.

3.     I Chose Joy. That idea has been a mantra in our group since Brett or Jordy (I can’t remember who) came across it in a race report a while back. Ginger gave me a card on Friday that she colored that said: Choose Joy.  When I was tired and feeling bummed, that card reminded me that I’m lucky to be able to do these things and I should choose to enjoy it. I was able to do that, and that made all the difference.

4.     Having such an amazing crew of people around me made me feel like I must be doing something right in life. I’m lucky that people will be that generous with their time, and I’m proud to have these friends in my life.

5.     I finished Grindstone, DOOD!!! Seriously, a whole year of working towards something, and I got it done!


This has been a long one, so I’ll close by saying a big THANK YOU to Sean for being an amazing crew chief. I can’t wait to return the favor.


If you ever need a crew chief, Sean is your man. He is on top of it!  (Well, he DID wear jeans to Grindstone, but he's one top of taking care of other people)

Thanks to Chris for being a steady, calming presence. I always enjoy our time together on the trail. I’m also looking forward to returning the favor.


Chris Larson is an amazing pacer. Steady, calm, and always upbeat. 


Thank you, Pawel for being patient and encouraging along the way. You’re a great pacer, training partner, and friend. Can’t wait to help you knock out your first hundy too.

Feed this guy vert and he will go anywhere 


Rick: you were such a huge help! Thanks for coming out and supporting me! 

Ginger: thank you for letting me be me and for supporting me as I train and chase windmills with our crazy friends. 

Bryan Jennings: YOU ARE A BEAST! Congrats on your first 100. This was a doozie!! I'm so glad to have re-connected with you and Peggy. It was great seeing you guys. 

Ryan Nebel: Congrats on another solid finish. You're an inspiration, man. Great dad and still running strong!

Ben: I'm glad we got to spend some time together in the mountains. Looking forward to the next one.

Brett and Jordy: thanks for being the best training partners, mentors, and friends I could ask for.

I wouldn’t have made it to the finish without ALL of you.




Monday, June 20, 2016

Eastern Divide 2016: Chasing the perfect day (and some windmills).

If you want to make an omlette, you gotta crack a few eggs.

On the drive to the starting line Saturday morning, Brett read us Zach Miller’s recent blog post “If I’m Honest” that talked a lot about giving everything you have to a race. Miller lamented the lack of blood and guts and willingness to lay it all out on the line he sees all too often in racing. Combine that with the refrain from a recent article by Laz (that was basically a requiem for the lost art of going out too fast) running through my head and we had all the makings for a special day at Eastern Divide. Oh, and Kirby calling me out in the pre-race email. Yes. That too.

Oh, and Reeve (The OG Bad Idea Club President) was here too. When you put all that together, I knew I had to burn the ship on Saturday. I knew I had to run the race harder than I’ve ever run a race before. I just HAD to see what was possible. I HAD to toe the line with the mindset that I would blow up and walk the final miles if needed. When we lined up at the Cascades trailhead, I knew I was heading off in search of the elusive “perfect” day.

So, here we go: EDU 16.

After a fun morning of hanging out at the trailhead catching up with good friends, Brett, Chris, Erik, and I lined up near the front of the pack. I kissed Ginger goodbye and said thanks for everything and got locked in.

The plan was simple. Run the first climb just shy of the limit and then fly down the forest service road and stay in contact with the head of the race (Not the top 3, we KNEW we had to let Frank, Mike, and Jason go). I knew we just had to stay in contact with the top 10 and see what happens.

The first 5 miles felt great. We ran easy up the climb and hiked a couple of steep pitches to save the legs for the first road climb and the first long decent. We passed Jordy and Sean (Thanks for making the course AND working the RAVE Station, btw) near the top of the climb in a tight pack that represented 9-15 place. Jordy shouted encouragement and Sean made me laugh. I was happy. The legs felt good, and the first climb didn’t hurt me too badly.

We rolled right by AS 1 and powered up the first road climb. Chris, Brett, Erik, Ian, and I started reeling in the faster guys like Joe Dudak and cool dude named Brad as we rolled through AS 2.

On the long, fast forest road section, our pack stayed together. It was weird to be in such a big group dropping sub 8 miles. I have to admit it was stressful. Losing contact would mean losing 10 spots in the race. I tried not to think about it, and just tried to think about running smooth, eating, and drinking. Chris, as always, helped me stay relaxed and focus. We always run faster together.

Somewhere along the way, a strong local runner gave me a some good natured ribbing. He said, “You’re kind of a big guy to be in this group.” I smiled and said, “I’m representing for the fat kids” and laughed it off telling myself he was just appreciating how fast a guy who can actually lift something heavy when needed could move. Inside, I told myself, “I’m gonna make him pay on the next climb” and I smiled.

Fast forward a bunch of low 7 minute miles and we hit the long road climb. To me, this is a one of the best parts of the course. You’re at mile 16 and you have a long, steady road climb. The kind that suits someone who runs in the mountains every day and enjoys a bit of suffering. Chris asked me, “Where’s the walking stick?” A reference to Brett’s strategy from Umstead. I just grunted, “There isn’t one here. We are solidifying a top 10 finish on this climb. We are going to put some space between us and that pack here.” Chris accepted my strategy and pushed the pace. Chris, Brad, and I pushed ahead hard on the climb. We hit AS 4 like a cyclone. I grabbed a fresh water bottle filled with gels and tailwind, chugged some Coke, said hey to Andy, dumped water over my head, and took off chasing Brad (Thanks, Andy). Chris followed quickly behind me, and we settled into the chase. Hoping to keep Brad in sight. The goal was simple. Put time into the others and try to keep Brad in sight until we got into the techy trails again.

That was not to be. Well, the second part. Brad proved too fast for us, and he outpaced us to the woods. When we got to AS 5, Chris and I were still sitting 6 and 7. Joe Dudak was chasing hard, but we didn’t know how far behind he was (which was waaaay too close for comfort, as it turns out). Kirby kicked us out of AS 5 and off we went.

I kept thinking: “I think this might be THE DAY. I think I can sustain this til the finish line.” Chris and I don’t talk much when we run. We just settle into the pain cave and shovel coal into the hopper to fuel the pain train.

We hit the burly climb from the techy trail up to the meadow, and shifted down into powerhike mode until we hit the top. Brad was nowhere in sight, but we couldn’t see Joe behind us either, so it was all good.

We rolled into AS 6 (The RAVE STATION) happy to see Chris Clarke (a local legend) along with Jordy, Josh, Jill, and the other awesome volunteers. Sean (Mao Mao) was MIA. All I wanted was to fill my handbottle and get rolling. I was worried that the clock was ticking on how long I could sustain this effort. I knew we had to move. Jill was right on time with the pitcher to fill my bottle. I grabbed a handful of something and an orange slice and took off as fast as I could yelling “Thank YOU!” over my shoulder. I’m sorry I didn’t stay longer to laugh and say thank you properly to everyone. It was a great AS (like all the Aid Stations as EDU). The volunteers are amazing and deserve a lot of thanks. Thank you again to every volunteer that so generously gave their time Saturday, so we could be knights and chase our windmills.

Chris and I ran hard through the next section of techy trail. To be honest, I had given up on chasing Brad. I knew if we hadn’t caught him yet we weren’t going to reel him in. But, I did know that anything is possible and someone else could blow up. Plus, the goal was a 4:30 finish and top 10. We had to keep our eyes on that prize. We did.

We hit the last forest service road connector section and opened it up until we went back into the woods at the 1.5 miles to go road sign. 4:30 was slipping away. But, we kept pushing. Chris and I stumbled and staggered through the boulder garden. We looked at the lake over our right shoulder and closed the final miles as hard as we could push.

As we hit the final climb to finishing road section, my legs were cramping. Quads screaming, I heard a noise behind us down the hill. There was Joe Dudak smiling up at us. “Guess, I was too loud. Was trying to sneak up on you,” he called.

“Oh, #$@$ NO!” I said to Chris. His legs replied: Let’s go, T! Chris took off and smashed the final steps into the clearing. A quarter mile to go. We hammered it. Legs cramping, I made my final effort to outrun reality and find that elusive windmill. I pushed as hard as I could and caught up to Chris. We sprinted to the finish line. 6 and 7!! 4:34. We did it! A huge course PR for both of us. Joe came in right behind us. He was smiling and just generally being an awesome nice guy. Great race, man. 





















We found the elusive perfect day. We cracked some eggs. We poured blood and guts out all over the trail. I like to think Zach Miller and Laz would be proud of our race. We left nothing out there. We didn’t cheat the gift. We made use of the perfect day we had been given. And, I’m grateful for it.

I sprinted across the line and gave Ginger a sweaty, salty, smelly hug. So happy to see her. 

I gave Chris a huge hug too, and slurred a grateful thank you to him for pushing me all day.

Then, we commenced to hanging out with our amazing friends and their families.


















I was proud to see that Reeve had crushed the 8 mile race and came in second. Ginger had a great day and a solid finish in the 8 mile too. She’s amazing! Brett had an 1 hour and 45 minute course PR and came in right after us.

So many people did amazing things at EDU. Locals Frank and Mike came in 1-2. Erik ran a tough race and finished his first Ultra in a long time. Dan Woods did us all proud and had a great showing at his first 50K. (So proud of you, Dan). Josh Starner stuck to his plan, and ran a smart race leaving it all out there. Royce became the only 5 time finisher and had a great day after a post- Umstead injury. Matt crushed his first 50K. Jim Trixler had another great showing as he preps for his first 100 miler in August. Adrienne represented VT Ultra and had a great day. My main man, Nelson came though smiling and inspiring like only he can. Bryan Jennings had a great first 50K (Bryan, it was great to re-connect with you and Peggy). Julia was 2nd female and 7th overall in the 8 mile. And, so many other people accomplished their goals.

We all owe Kirby and the volunteers a big debt. Thanks!!

After the race, we went back to our house and had a great cookout. 




It was so fun to have our friends and their families hanging around, eating, talking, and just being awesome. Ginger and I are so lucky to have such an amazing community. Thank you to everyone for making our day special.

Then, we ran the Sundown 5K. Jordan and Andy laid down sick times. And Chris won the combined (unofficial, but I'm sure he did. He SMOKED the 5K). 



Thanks to the folks at Runabout Sports for putting on a great race. Thanks to Stephen and Heather for letting us borrow strollers, so X and P could race with Reeve and Ginger. 



Look at Ginger pushing that stroller like a champ!!



 And here is Reeve showing us all how it's done! I was chasing him from the start. 





Thanks to Kirby for getting Reeve a late entry to the 5K. And thanks to everyone for a great day. I loved every second of it. I continue to be amazed at how lucky I am to have such an amazing wife, a great family, and the best friends in the world. Thank you all for making life grand and chasing windmills possible. And one last shout out to Jordan and Brett for putting in so many amazing miles with me this year. Without you guys, I couldn’t have put this perfect day to use. 

And Kirby, thanks for the motivation, man. You put on a great race. I


f you haven't run, Eastern Divide, be sure to sign up next year. Kirby's race is amazing!! 

Thursday, April 7, 2016

Umstead 100 2016: Family and Friends who are Basically Family

With a few days to recover and reflect about last weekend’s Umstead 100, I’m still buzzing with joy about how the race went. It was a long road to the start line. The real work of running 100 miles happens in training. As Muhammad Ali once said,  “The fight is won or lost far away from witnesses—behind the lines, in the gym, out there on the road, long before I dance under those lights.”

For me, the work began after Umstead last year as I dove headlong into committing to eating well and training with some intention. I’ve written about this before, so there’s not much to say here other than: Training pays off. The proof is in the result of hard work. But, the most important thing to remember is that no matter how hard you want to work, you can’t do it alone. Ginger, was steadfast in her support of my training and she is the best partner anyone could ask for (Thanks, darlin’!). Ginger, Jordan, Brett, Royce, Josh, Sean, Chris, and all of my other training partners were key in my arriving at the starting line ready to dance.


The Training is Done. Now is the time on Sprockets When We Dance!

Brett, Royce, Sean and I left BBurg on Friday morning and rolled down to Umstead to check in, get our bibs, and rest up before the race.



Sean was a huge help because we knew we could count on him to make sure Ginger, Lois (Team Mom of the Year), Michelle, Jill, Chris, Julia, Josh Starner, and the rest of our crazy crew would be able to get all set up in the morning. Friday night, I turned off my phone, climbed into my sleeping bag in the cabin, and drifted off for some quality sleep. I woke up at 4:30 on Saturday morning, got dressed and ready to roll. Ginger was there to see me off and make sure I everything that I needed. 


My A Goal was just to finish no matter what the time. I had given myself some follow-on goals and created pace charts to give myself a plan to shoot for prior to the race. Secondary goals included a time PR, Sub 21, and Sub 20. 19:55 was my reasonable “stretch goal” for the race, and going sub 19 was a goal that I didn’t really share with anyone, but it would have represented the elusive “perfect race” that we all hope to have one day. 

I began the day shooting for the 19:55 pace splits and figured I could adjust from there. Taking longer would mean letting those splits pass without worry because the A goal was to finish. Going faster would basically just mean running hard on Laps 7 and 8. 

Here’s the story of the race with 19:55 pace splits to guide you.

Just before 6 am, Josh, Royce, Brett, and I went up to the lodge to pound some coffee before we to set off on the adventure. Josh and Royce would be going for for their first 100 mile finishes, and they both SMASHED it! So proud of these guys! 


Lap 1: Goal Time: 2:10
Brett and I worked our way up to the front of the field so we could move easily in the opening miles. We found ourselves running comfortably around a 9 minute pace and just enjoyed the first hour of running in the dark with a bunch of cool people. About halfway through the first lap, we were running in a pack of about 14 people a few minutes behind the leaders. It was so fun as we traded stories and chatted with Justin, Erin, and some other folks we hooked up with on the trail. At one point, Brett turned to me with a big smile to comment on how fun it was to be rolling into Aid 1 in a big pack. It was really a nice opening lap. We cruised though Aid 1, filled bottles and said a big thank you to the amazing volunteers who were there to help us. Thanks again, folks! The volunteers at Umstead are hands down THE BEST! 

We came into our crew spot at the Start/Finish to the sound of Sean blasting away on the Vuvuzela. I was happy to see Ginger and Lois, and they were like a NASCAR crew (as always) getting me what I needed for the next lap.



I was feeling strong and had the feeling that today was going to be a good day.

Actual Time: 1:58

Lap 2: Goal Time: 2:10
Lap 2 was really more of the same. Brett and I ran along together chatting and enjoying the day. The rain hadn’t started yet, but we knew we were going to get rained on at some point. I’m not really sure when the rain came, but I didn’t care. Rain doesn’t bother me while running. Brett likes it too, so we were happy. We did feel bad for the crew who would have to suffer through a rainy day. Sorry, guys. Thanks!! 

We cruised through Aid 1 and made our way back to the S/F to see our family at the crew spot. I could see a little concern on their faces as we came in ahead of where we had planned in terms of pace. But we were running easy and feeling strong. My friend Star (an incredible ultra runner and Badwater Finisher) had sent me a message the day before telling me to “make some magic happen today” and I felt like it was the perfect day to do just that. Thanks for the encouragement, Star! Lap 2 was another success. I was banking time without burning matches. The training was paying off.

Actual Time: 2:03

Lap 3: Goal Time: 2:15
Brett and I stayed together going out on Lap 3 after Ginger had gotten me set up with fluids and fuel on the way out. Somewhere on this lap, the rain started. I turned to Brett and said something about this being perfect “Cross Country Weather, which is what he calls cool, rainy days. It really was. The only downside was that it made the band aids come off my chest and that means only one thing: bloody nipples if you don’t shed your shirt. So, I did. That meant the world would be subjected to me running shirtless all day. Sorry about that. 

We kept cruising and enjoying the day. Brett and I talked a little about our pace and made sure that we were running smart. We walked the hills and just took what the course gave us, which meant that we came into the S/F ahead of our projected pace again. No problem. We were feeling good. Ginger, Lois, and the rest of the crew helped me with a lightening fast sock change to avoid blisters. Did I mention how awesome our crew was? Here's photographic evidence showing two of the most amazing women in the world hanging out all day supporting us. 


How can you not feel better after seeing those two smiling faces and the motivational sign?  


I had been feeling a hot spot develop and want to be pro-active. Jordan had reminded me before he went and crushed GDR that a successful long race was only possible if you took care of yourself early. So I did. After another quick sock change, we took off on Lap 4 still on pace for a magic day.
Actual Time: 2:07

Lap 4: Goal Time: 2:25
Lap 4 was where I started to ease off the throttle. I wanted to make sure I still had gas in the tank to be running after mile 50. But, I still wanted to make sure I did the first 50 in a good time. Brett and I ran together for most of the lap. About half way around the loop we saw Dan Lenz in the distance. Dan is a big dog. He’s also incredibly nice. He is someone I look up to because, much like Jordan, he is an elite ultra runner who always has a smile and a kind word for a fellow runner. When we saw Dan in the distance, Brett and I had a small moment of panic. I said, “Brett, Um. We might be messing up here. What are we doing catching Dan Lenz??!!” When we pulled up next to him, he was, true to form, smiling and encouraging us. He assured us that we were OK. He was out there to give himself a “gut check” and was basically running off the couch. We chatted with him for a minute, and then he said, “You’re doing great, brother. Go kill it!” If you happen to read this, Dan. Thank you. And know that it's really cool that you're willing to go give yourself a "gut check" at a race like this. Your humble, encouraging manner represents all that is right about ultra running. 

Anyway, Brett and I heeded Dan's advice, and got back to work throwing coal into the locomotive and driving the pain train toward the halfway point of the race. 

Actual Time: 2:27
50 Mile Split: 8:37- A 50 Mile PR

Lap 5: Goal Time: 2:30
The start of Lap 5 meant picking up a pacer. All day, I told myself: Just run a strong first 50, and then all you have to do is give 4 of your friends a tour of the course. It’ll be a party. That’s how I tried to treat the race. I was starting to feel the fatigue set in. My legs were beginning to ache a bit, but I knew I had plenty of gas in the tank. 

When I came back to the crew spot from the S/F, Ginger, Lois, and Jordan got me quickly covered in sun screen (the rain stopped and it was getting hot out), and then sent me out to start the second half of the race.

I picked up Chris Larson for Lap 5. Chris is such a talented runner and he really made all the difference in terms of pacing me to a good finish. Brett and I had set points along the course where we would begin walking a hill and where we would start running again. Brett had set these points two years ago when he ran the race for the first time. Brett’s plan was also pivotal in my successful day. Well, his plan and all of the fun I had running with him for the first 50 miles. Anyway, Chris did a perfect job of keeping me moving well. He pushed me just enough, but never let me go too hard. A few times he told me to dial it back when I was feeling good and running too fast. When, I got lazy, he pushed me too. 

I have to mention the AS volunteers again here. At both aid stations, they were so great at getting us food and keeping us moving. Big props to Karl Mundt, who was working the halfway AS. He was a huge help all day. When I came back into the S/F Ginger was there with a big smile and advice about what to eat and getting me moving. Lois had a huge smile that really lifted my spirits. Seeing Jordy, Kristin, Linda Vick, and Jill having fun and generously giving us their time and encouragement really makes running easy. I came through lap 5 feeling strong and happy to have a new 100 K PR in the books too (11:04). The crew was always there to pick up our spirits with all kinds of shenanigans.

Including some questionable distribution of Body Glide:


 And lots of Vuvuzela encouragement: 




Actual Time: 2:26- 100K PR (11:04)


Lap 6: Goal Time: 2:35
Ginger sent Chris out with me on Lap 6 again. He was such a great pacer that I felt a little greedy keeping him for a second lap. But, I was SO happy to have his advice and company along the way. I don’t remember a lot about this lap. Things are a little fuzzy. I know I was feeling good and still thinking about a strong finish. Chris did a great job of keeping me in the moment and keep me focused on the current mile.


Photo Credit: John Foote. Thanks for sharing John.  

He didn’t let me think about what might be: good or bad. He kept me in the present. Thank you, Chris. We came back into the S/F with an almost identical lap split!

Actual Time: 2:26

Lap 7: Goal Time: 2:55
Before I left on lap 7, I wanted to put on some fresh compression shorts, socks, and a shirt because I knew the temp was going to drop. Also, I wanted to clean the salt off of me again to avoid chaffing. Our crew did an incredible job of getting me changed and moving quickly. Then, Ginger took me out for Lap 7. If you’ve never had your spouse or partner pace you in the late stages of an ultra, you gotta do it. There’s something really special about being out there testing your limits knowing that your best friend in the world is there to get your back and lift your spirits. I was really starting to tire out on this lap, but Ginger kept my spirits high, and kept telling that I was doing what needed to be done. We talked about all kinds of things, and I loved every second of it.  We saw my friend Nelson working the halfway AS, and seeing him lifted my sprits greatly. He is an amazing runner, and an incredibly nice person. Linda Vick was there working too, and she was such a huge help. 

The lap with Ginger really was a blast. She’s such a talented runner, an incredible crew chief, and I highly recommend her as a pacer. She’s also the best partner in the world, but too bad for all of you: She’s mine J  Thanks for everything, Ginger! Remember it was Lap 7 of Umstead last year when we talked about what might be possible if I took things a little more seriously, so this race is as much yours as it is mine. I couldn’t do it without you!

Actual Time: 2:43

Lap 8: Goal Time 2:55:
Lap 8. What to say about lap 8? Looking at the numbers, you’d think I’d want to say bad things about it. Lap 8 is where the dream of the “perfect race” really died. Coming into the S/F at the end of Lap 7, I knew I was dealing with an almost empty gas tank. I tried to get myself pumped up and ignore the reality that I was running out of coal to throw in the hopper. I still felt very good about my day. I knew I had run a smart race and measured my effort enough to make sub 20 and a huge PR happen. But, I also knew that running much on this lap was not likely. In an effort to pump myself up I passed through the crew spot and told Sean (my awesome Lap 8 pacer) to “pack his coffin because we were gonna burn the ship” but that was not to be. Well, Ok, we did actually burn the ship and empty the tank. But, it was more like starting a fire in the Smoky mountains in April than burning a Christmas tree. Lap 8 was a smoldering slog that saw us walk way more than run. I was fighting some serious nausea and spent the whole lap trying not to puke. Sean told me stories, pushed me, cajoled me, and tried to get me to run. 


But, I knew the smart thing was to hike  and make sure I finished this thing as strongly as possible. I was content. I knew I was going to finish sub 20. I knew I was solidly in the top 20, which is something that up until that day had only ever been a dream. Really! Me, finishing in the top 20 at a classic 100 is a dream I never thought I’d accomplish. But, I had done the work. I was out there in the dark, in the snow, in the bad weather when no one was watching all winter preparing to dance under the lights in April. And, Ali is right. The fight is won or lost in training. I had won my own battle with the clock on the day that mattered most to me. 

Through all of the Lap 8 walking, I promised myself I would run the last 3/4 of a mile strong. I promised myself to save enough to finish strong and then soak in the finish line. And, that I did.



When I saw Ginger at the finish, it was amazing. Easily in the top 10 happy moments of my life.



Actual Time: 3:31

Actual Finish: 19:44:52  13th overall!!

Actual Avg Pace: 11:50

I was wasted when I crossed the line. Jordan was there to capture the moment  when I was happier to see Brett than I've ever been. 















And when I flopped on the ground to stretch. Notice the "barf bucket" that just happened to be next to me. I didn't need it. 



The tank was bone dry. I did what I set out to do. I ran hard, and I ran smart. I measured my effort enough to be able to empty the tank completely and still make it to the finish. Finishing 13th overall was such an amazing topper to a great day.

I was also able to finish in time to see Brett still up and awake. 
Brett finished in 18:26, which was a new PR for him. Michele paced him for a blistering fast lap 8 and 9th Place Overall!!!



Great job, buddy!! Thanks for everything.

Royce was rock steady all day and finished his first 100 in 21:16!!! Amazing. So proud of him!!


Josh also had an amazing race. He ran steady all day and finished in 22:35 for his first 100 mile finish! 



Great job, brother. Proud of you. 

Final Thoughts:
I managed to keep my aid station time to less than 30 minutes, which is pretty efficient for a 100 miler where you see your crew 7 times and pass through 15 manned aid stations. I'm quite pleased with that. I owe the volunteers and my crew a huge thank you! 

Thanks again to Rhonda, the amazing RD of Umstead and all of the volunteers who generously helped us all reach our goals on Saturday. 

I want to say a big thank you to my family and friends who supported me on race day and in the lead up to the race. I couldn’t have done it without you all.



The next big adventure is Grindstone 100 in October. There will be lots of adventures along the way though, so if you like Bad Ideas, stay tuned. There are lots of stories to come. 


Photo Credits: Jordan Chang, Kristen Chang, Lois Kelly, and the nice guy who took the group photo for us.