Trail Tracks

Sometimes you just need to slow down and wait for yourself to catch up.

2011-07-13T10:56:00.000-07:00

I’m not sure when It happened, not exactly sure what it really is for that matter but at some undefined point on some trail or during some race I reached a milestone….or better yet…Call it a mid life running crisis. Right now I’m cancelling a running race that I’ve been waiting to run, I’m cutting back my scheduling for “meeting up” not because I don’t like the venue or the people I run with but it’s more of a defensive posture, a sort of reverse engineering of my running self to save what little I might have left of my past desire to run. A time long ago I’d get up every morning at some crazy time when only spiders and their dew covered webs would be on the trail…… my legs fresh and my mind clear just bursting with excitement to run.

I’ve always ran; at least as long as I can remember. I would run when ever my schedule would allow and when I ran I would run without much gear, no compression shorts, running watch, handhelds or packs….I ran without toe socks, just standard whities. With a dab of Vaseline I was gone, sometimes just taking off in any direction and running for an unknown amount of time, turn around and head back. At that time I would only run one race a year… the L.A. Marathon, but that was it. I also didn’t have as much responsibility as I do today; three children and a wife later, my bills and responsibilities are a marathon in themselves. And my gear; I’ve got drop bags full of gear, bottles, tubes, baggies, shoes, clothes …..an overload of stuff.

In the beginning I’d create a log of my running that I sometimes read to revisit for fun… and as I progressed to trail running I would always take my camera, stopping many times to take pictures of various interesting things along the way…

To the present…. and many marathons, 50ks, 50milers, 100 miler, Grand Canyon and Badwater experiences later I’m worn. I realized that I’m running to “run” and not “experience” anymore, I’m not getting up and looking forward to the experience because I view my running lately as a schedule to meet, trying to advance myself beyond my “last run or race” and not stopping to enjoy where I am but rather how fast I can run through it…..let’s face it when you advance past 40 your PR experiences dwindle leaving only the value of running in the “Experience” of the moments rather than pure performance.

So… I’ve decided my cure will be on multiple levels.
1. I’m going for deep muscle massages to wake my legs up
2. No schedules, no races, no long range plans, no commitments……..
3. Day on, day off with compression gear.. ( I feel looser, cool and free that way, my strides feel unrestricted bring me back to pre-injury mentality) it was after my hip flexor injury that I began using compression gear while running.
4. I’m running more consistently but closer to home, old stomping grounds, 5-8 miles daily with weekend runs of higher mileage. Running, walking and intentionally stopping to enjoy where I am…… note: clear your schedule before running long…don’t push your finish due to expectations or prior commitments.
5. Mentally rewinding, de-racing, de-stressing to find out why I loved to run in the first place….

It’s beginning to work, I can feel myself again and I’m looking forward to hitting the trails that earlier seems to have become drab and unexciting… Oh, one more thing for my list of remedies……

To just slow down so that I can just simply catch up to myself……….

Ha Ha....You know your an Ultra-Runner when.........

2011-06-21T10:24:00.000-07:00

Its scary just how much you can relate to most of these......

You know your an Ultra Runner when....

San Diego 100 – Update 2 – We are not alone…

2011-06-03T15:00:00.000-07:00

San Diego 100 – Update 2 – We are not alone…

I’ve officially secured a pacer for the SD100, I’m pretty pumped! Last years solo attempt didn’t work out to well so I needed someone with the intestinal fortitude to tell me off and get me back on the trail when I begin to mingle and waste time… Rachael Kadell is the lucky pacer and I’m confident that she will do nothing short of kick my A$$.

So I’m ready now, a slight taper next week, no hills, and that’s it.

I’ve decided to carry my Nathan pack but sans water, I will carry water bottles for both water and mix and that should be sufficient.

My training up till now has been fairly strong, I’ve put in some good mileage mixed with speed and hill work so we’ll just take it one stride at a time.

I plan on documenting this one with as much detail as I can pictures and all so when this tread finishes it will finish with my final SD100 summary. Cant wait. Just run.

runrunrunoc

San Diego 100 - update 1 - Enlightened

2011-05-27T13:39:00.000-07:00

San Diego 100 - update 1 - Enlightened

Last year I had attempted to run the SD100, I was headstrong and independent, turns out I was just unprepared and alone when I shouldn’t have been. I ran a pretty strong race but ran into issues when I ate to much “roast beef sandwich” midway through my attempt.

I had spent the day pushing the pace when I should’ve been monitoring it and conserving; these mistakes tend to build up mile by mile in a 100 and by 60 I had regretted the fact that I didn’t recruit a friend for pacing duties. As I strolled , limped, crawled into the 80 mile station “sunrise” I had all but convinced myself to sit the remaining mileage out…. I said “ I think I’m done”………silence. With no pacer to offer a stubborn rebuttal my mind had won and I was done.

This year is a bit different, I’ve gone a whole year with the “What if’s” and I’m tired of em. I signed up for San Diego 100 and have been training and planning my offensive maneuvers around the 100 beast. This time armed with a pacer and partial crew, probably the same person … I plan on putting this one to bed.

My mileage is consistent and its remained at around 75-80 miles a week, overtraining in mileage has never helped me so I’m comfortable with the training so far.

I also plan on adding twitter to the blog so that I can record every fun filled mile as I go!..yay…

I’m running Los Pinos on Saturday for training run which is a pretty brutal trail run just by itself, will go moderately slow being that I need to start thinking about a logical taper and all….. I’m stubborn that way so we’ll see…. This is the first of a few SD100 updates…

Runrunrunoc

Distance, Weight, Water, Luggage……

2011-05-26T11:55:00.000-07:00

One early Saturday morning as I prepared for my 100 miler the adrenaline was pumping, everyone was excited but yet calm and stoic as they gathered gear. There were many with water bladders, every make and model and some without.

I remembered the preparation leading to this race, I did as I always do, tore apart pretty much everything I own having anything to do with running and laid it all out in my garage as not to miss a single item or possibly overlook something on my inventory check list.

My bladder pack was a double pocketed pack with the ability to expand even deeper if need be; so I began my preparations selecting the essentials first, my salt, blister kits, caloric requirements (gels and what nots). By the time I had completed my pack was full, I had packed the essentials the secondary and tertiary’s and ….not sure what the name is for the 4th in order…anyway, packed it all.

In hindsight my sons lucky he wasn’t there with me or I probably would’ve packed him too……

So here I was at the start line ready to go… and with a countdown we were off!.. Jump ahead to 50 miles, weighed down and getting tired I had decided to drop the whole pack and continue on with my pacer and two handhelds, best decision ever….I felt like I had new life and continued on happily, not needing any survival gear, ponchos, compass or anything else that I might’ve thrown in there……. Lessons learned here are what makes this sport so interesting, its those that can learn from experiences, change what didnt work and try again that are successfull.

So here you are wondering what you should take to your next race… These are my forged by fire thoughts…

• I recommend a runners bladder pack (not hikers).. such as “Nathan”, this will prevent you from being able to pack anything and everything…. As I ran along at mile 40, my buddy Bill Ramsey ran with me for a bit, “get a pack like mine” he said… “Water, salt and a few gels is all you need” he’s right. With aid stations every 6-7 miles on average…two handhelds will last about hours…. Conserve water when needed to get through rough patches yes….over pack and carry to much weight for distance…no.

• Distance is a good factor for determining pack or no pack requirements….. but when I run 100, I “pack it”, but light…. I’ve got a friend “David” that runs with a bladder pack unfilled – used to store his necessities only… he carries water bottles to transport water and will use the pack only as backup…..not a bad idea.

• Usually a 50 miler and anything less can be done with only bottles –( recommend a full carry of two bottles for anything 50k and up), carrying your salt and such in the pouches as well as some TP (you never know) which I usually baggie and flatten to store between the pouch and bottle itself to save space in the pouch compartment should be plenty between aid stations.

These are my suggestions, and might not be suited for your running, but you never know...you might be looking at a fully stuffed Bladder pack right now and wondering...hmm maybe I'm overprepared.

It’s always a comforting feeling to carry everything you need for every situation but remember that unless your run is unsupported, your covered in most cases. Just make sure that you research your next run to ensure proper preparations…… and just run.

Check out my other blog at
www.sole-surfing@blogspot.com

Runrunrunoc

New and Improved Attitude!

2011-05-26T09:42:00.001-07:00

Hello world its been to long,

I've been unusually busy lately..nothing extraordinary, not to much to hang on my wall of achievements but with family busy is busy and because of this I'd lost focus.

My life doesnt revolve around my next run or for that matter anything to do with running; with that being said it's a constant endurance battle to remain vigilant and true to what I "know" makes me feel good about myself.

Running is not just a lifestyle it's a true connection to yourself - to your balance.. if your lucky enough to be a runner, some don't understand and the effort to convince them is not only frustrating but just plain waisted.

So from now on I'm true to myself, I heard a story once, sit down and bear with me....

A father was struggling with depression, his world was spinning out of control and everything seemed to be to much. As he sat in his chair his 7yo boy who had been playing in his room shuffled up, bored and sulking. Looking around the room, the father grabbed a magazine page which contained a large image of the earth. Not showing his son what image he had selected he then cut it up into many pieces.

With this he gave it to his son and told him to go to his room and try to put it together.. "that'll keep him busy for awhile" he thought, no more than 10 minutes had passed and to his astonishment the boy came back to his father placing a taped up magazine page with a picture of the earth on it. " How did you put it together so fast?" he said to his son. His son replied " Their were too many pieces,I started to get confused, it was then that I noticed a picture of a person on the other side of the pieces, once I put the person together the world just fell into place......"

Life can get overwhelming, pulling you in a thousand different directions, at times you need to step back and refocus on yourself and your health.... and everything else will begin to get clearer.

Thats what I intend to do...so lets run! :)

Runrunrunoc

Chimera100 - One Inch Equals..

2010-10-06T12:21:00.000-07:00

One Inch Equals

What is One Hundred Miles:
• One Inch equals 100 miles on some maps….
• Long island is 100 miles long
• If the average adult stride is 2-2.5 ft. it would take between 210000 and 260000 strides to walk 100 miles
• 425 laps around a standard soccer field = 100 miles
• Approx 1,034,449 one dollar bills laid in a row
• Ruth’s and Mantle’s 500 ft. homeruns would have to be hit over and over 1056 times; that’s over 60 games worth of total swings (not just one swing per game) and they’d all have to be home runs!!.

Mind blowing to say the least and yes a little ADHD writing on my part; but hey I just ran 100 miles, I did it! And yes I’m still in denial.

As I ran around the Parking lot to the finish line running to the sounds of cheers and encouragement from all of my friends I instinctively jumped symbolic of the first moon landing over the finish line landing solidly with both feet and smiling …. Just smiling; it was symbolic enough to stick the landing. It was an epic test for me, one that I had attempted twice already and with this one…the landing stuck.

But first let’s rewind 30 hrs and change, yeah that’s right….30 hrs and change.

Prepared?, I was, prepared as anyone, any average person, any average person with a wife 3 kids and a crazy job could ever be. I packed and I packed again, I hit the local sports store enough times to list its running inventory backwards in alphabetical order! Many times I’d gone back there searching for that one missing item I needed…but I didn’t know what or where it was.. ( Ha Ha ) (crazy unstable laugh).

I had approached the start line of a 100 mile race twice before and with each it had gone unaccomplished, but there had been progression. This time I had checked off all the mental requirements and I now truly felt physically ready to complete my first 100 mile trail run.

At least I thought my strategy this time was brilliant!, I’ve been a victim of over excitement during my recent races and this time I had a plan to slow myself down, weight….yeah that’s right, I’m just going to fill my hydration pack up with stuff! (another crazy unstable laugh), fast forward to race start: I’m lugging around my pack and two water bottles, defending my decision to my fellow runners as I slowly begin to reconsider my crazed strategy……3,2,1 too late now; and I stride off the start line. My Garmin is my Judge, the pack is my penalty I think as run along the pavement to the beginning of the single track trailhead….

The San Juan loop from Blue Jay Campground is just spectacular, with its wide variety of scenery and soft single tracks I glide down the trails and through the tall trees. I begin to sink into a comfortable pace to fit my target of 13.5 M/H but it’s not easy, I just can’t seem to slow down that much I’ll be content with 11’s for now . . . maybe 10’s…. I’m trying.

As I continue my run downhill its gets technical with boulders appearing amongst the mix of underbrush, I begin passing people slowly but consistently; I feel comfortable, not straining at all….so I continue. By the 10 mile mark I’m running in 6th place and as I continue to the 20 mile mark and complete my uphill portion of San Juan and back into Blue jay I’m still in 6th. At Blue jay we the opportunity to pass by our vehicles, it’s here that you can have a brief reprieve by stopping by your car, exchanging gear or refilling if you have that ability; it’s also here that I had a chance to forego my extra weight and continue on with only two handhelds. Strangely though I had begun to feel comfortable with the weight and the continued adjustments to the pack, for some reason the distractions were keeping my mind off the strain of the run so I chose to keep the pack for now (it was still morning, still cool and I still have that crazed laugh).

The path from Blue jay toward the Main Divide is fairly commonplace if you’ve run any previous trail runs through this area, it briefly winds itself around some campgrounds using a walking trail and spills out onto a paved incline that leads up to the entrance to the Main Divide Road then on and up to the Trabuco Aid station. As I traveled up the exposed Main Divide I was alone, working my way to the Trabuco Aid station I was now in 5th place and was at least an hour ahead of my projected pace chart; way to fast I thought. Bottles filled, I continued on….down Trabuco Road and toward the Shaded Holy Jim Aid station. It’s hard to believe that in the area of Trabuco Mesa a 60 foot whale skeleton was found and sea life was everywhere…..and now toward Trabuco canyon 70,000,000 years ago lived a huge abundance of shellfish. Man..shaking my head, Just a few of the many crazy thoughts allowed to enter your mind while running.

Trabuco is a beautiful road but it comes at a price, the journey is often very rocky , not boulder rocky but Trail shoe rock guard testing rocky. The road morphs from trees and shade to shale and sun then back again only to be rewarded at the lower portions by a soft and fern laden runner happy trail; I was glad to share this portion with my friend and experienced 100 miler Bill Ramsey whom I had also shared a journey I’ll never forget when we ran the Grand Canyons R2R2R together last October. He was looking as strong as ever and quite lean lately, must be that new homemade beer diet.

We ran into the Holy Jim Aid Station together; geared up and continued on the out and back to see another friend Baz Holly who is manning an aid station at the turn around. To the buzzing of remote control planes we approached Baz’z familiar aid station trailer and were joyfully greeted! It’s my good mate Larry! And our discussions continue…, it seems almost as if I wasn’t even in the midst of a 100 miler; I feel comfortable here and if there was a beer around I’d just sit down and hang out (Ha Ha), but alas, my journey continues as I head out again to meet the grueling but beautiful Holy Jim Trail and Santiago Peak leg of my run.
Beyond the Holy Jim Aid station up the trail I run into a few hikers and spectators all asking what we’re up to … I tell them about the 100 mile race and leave them wide eyed and stunned as they wish me well, standing in the middle of the trail… man, I hope they come out of it before they get run over by some wild mountain biker.
Holy Jim is yet another beautiful trail that runs up from the valley and can either link back to the main divide toward Santiago Peak or you can follow it toward Holy Jim Falls which during the wet season can be a nice getaway from the norm, but today isn’t the norm…not hardly. The falls named after "Cussin' Jim" Smith or “Holy Jim" as he was renamed reach upward into the sky ……Another bit of history marks this place: the last wild California Grizzly -- an old bear named "the honey thief" -- was killed at the mouth of Trabuco Canyon after robbing beehives here in 1907. But for us its all the way up to Santiago Peak towards Maple Springs and Silverado Canyon and that’s only the halfway point. I catch up again with Bill Ramsey midway up Holy Jim and we both ascend toward the Top and the Santiago Aid Station; and man I was looking forward to some cold ice water.

The most amazing thing for me at this race was the support, Steve Harvey and his crew of accomplished trail runners have organized this race to its finest detail. My local club the SoCal Trail Headz were a force here along with The Bad Rats, Team InknBurn members and their Maple Springs Aid Station…everyone was amazing!
By the time I reached Santiago Aid Station I was overheated, with my heavy pack I had managed to climb both San Juan, Trabuco , Holy Jim and now Santiago and it was slowly having its effects, I was fatigued and knew why…..the heat was in summer conditions the sun had forgotten that its now fall and was beginning to blaze, without cover on these trails it could easily overcome those that aren’t prepared. It was a far cry from last year, my first attempt at 100 miles when the wind was howling, water was everywhere and when I spotted rain flowing upward alongside the Main Divide road. So here at the aid station I sat, and sat….with a hat filled with ice cubes I sat and drank, talking with friends and volunteers I felt myself come back, revived and soon I was ready again to go. As that time had passed I watched as others that were behind me caught up and with still 50 miles to go it was here that I found it.. contentment, keep your flow, race your pace, if it happens to be your day and the flow is good; then you’ll do well, if not, you’ll still finish and be content; and from this point forward….all was good. Once I reached the top of Santiago Peak I knew there was a large downhill from here, rocky dusty and exposed but still Downhill!. My legs were beaten at this point they just hadn’t found their second wind yet so I took the downhill easy knowing that Maple Springs Aid was just around the next corner….wait, maybe the next corner…the next? As I continued on I was greeted by Keith Swiatkowski and Micheal Campion they were both running side by side and hot on the tail of the 100k leader, with a quick hello and good luck they were gone…then with a few turns later I saw the tents set up along the divide at four corners and the top of Santiago road and with I smile I drove on. As I repositioned my pack, I knew that would be the last I’d see of it for some time good riddance, so much for the “Great Idea” of controlling my race speed in the beginning with weight. I took a long drink of warm water and trotted down the last section into Maple Springs to cheers and friends again!

Charlie Nickel had it set up, he was like the favorite uncle at the family BBQ during Forth of July …the one you like to hang out with, singing laughing and cooking up everything you can imagine!...as I waited there I heard requests for anything form hamburgers, cup of noodles to bacon…..and couldn’t resist so I indulged in some noodles (mostly liquid) . This was the Drop bags Station and I was looking forward to switching my shoes out and getting into a clean shirt, after a quick switch and once last drink of my soup I was off again dawning my headlamp for the upcoming nights run.

The Santiago downhill seemed to go on forever, I was moving at a quicker pace now and seemed to gain strength from the cooler air and darkness. After endless turns the dirt road turned to asphalt, at first it’s a relief from the rock consistency of the fire roads but then it growls at you and bites into your joints and hips as you run, 57 miles of dirt, then this……”just grind it out” I said; you’ve got a pacer waiting for you.

So there I was off my feet at the Santiago Aid Station, great company….great food, just chewing on a turkey and cheese roll getting a leg massage. Could stay here forever chatting with runners, some of which won’t be continuing on tonight; tough decision but safe, the road ahead up the switchback “Motorway” and out to the distant Weather dome in Blackstar is a tough one, it’s a 14 mile out and back and that’s after the “Motorway” climb. Its location’s very remote and any chance of a quick return should you decide to DNF is just a dream….. dreammmm dreammm…. Wait! I’ve gotta get outta here, getting to comfortable! So with my new teammate David Colwick I stepped back out into the darkness and continued up the dreaded motorway.
Somewhere around halfway up we’re greeted by eyes….big eyes…., out here you don’t really see them looking back at you so often. I hesitate and confirm with my pacer, “ upper right, in the bushes, ….are those eyes…” we cautiously continue up the single track, framing the eyes in our beams the whole way. As we came to a clearing in the brush I was able to identify our mysterious fan, a fox….sigh. Very cool, don’t see many of them out here when I run; and a lot better than the alternative. A short time later we’re greeted by another runner and pacer who had decided to DNF before they got too far, another runner down?, I’d seen quite a few of them drop and wasn’t sure where I stood anymore as far as position. When we arrived at the top of the motorway we were greeted by Scott Mills and company, they all made me feel at home and injected more “I can do this” into my veins via support and tomato soup…yum.

Back on my feet I was now running toward Black star canyon out-and–back, this was to be one of the hardest points for me hills are non-stop and by the time we reach the Weather dome I’m feeling fatigued but motivated, it’s been a long ride so far and it’s a beautiful night, the only thing I could have wished for was a moonless night full of stars. For now though I’m content with the flickering of the city lights far down below, so many people in deep REM, comfortably sleeping in their beds……they have no idea. (smile)

I spend 10 minutes at the Black star aid station, taking weight off my feet and feeling my body pounding in retaliation.

Once up, we run out from aid station and back towards Bedford and Scott Mills aid station, (as quick as possible) anything to get out of this dreaded loop. I’m feeling stronger now as we emerge from Black star and after a moments break on the cot we continue on to Bedford and our return to Santiago peak and the finish line.
We quickly pass Bedford peak and in the darkness the very oldest known exposed surface in the area, a drab cloak of ancient rock hanging on the brushy shoulders of Bedford Peak, called the "Bedford Formation". This 150,000,000 year-old outcropping, which straddles Orange and Riverside Counties, was brand new right in the middle of the reign of dinosaurs..very cool.

Our travels back from this point on were pretty consistent…run when you can, and walk to save your body. I had been feeling off for the last 25 miles and still couldn’t shake it but I was committed to finish and my stomach was just gonna have to deal with it. I felt good from here on out running into the aid stations and David was a great sport talking without any response from me; listening to him kept my mind off the pain and although at times I wanted to participate; I just couldn’t…I just hoped that he would understand.

We ran on and enjoyed the sunrise over the san jacinto mountain range, soaking in what we had accomplished so far. Time really wasn’t relative anymore as our consistent movement just began eating up miles and before I knew it we had crossed Santiago Peak and were now mid-way along the Main divide and close to finishing.
So close to being done, all that built up pain and fatigue my mind had been trying to block was ready to be handed back off to me physically , now I felt every rock that I had pounded over the last 95 miles, felt every hill…….I had to lay down and take the weight off….I’d look around as I ran for smooth areas, shady and cool that would suit me, a large flat cool rock would be great; if I could just convince David to let me lay there for awhile….

The shady spot came and David gracefully complied, he had been running all night with me and I’m sure a small break sounded reasonable; even though we were so close to closing the book on this race.

I laid down and again felt the pounding throughout my body, close my eyes and let the fatigue release with each pounding wave…it felt so good not to move… a few cars filled with friends came by, concerned for me just laying there they continued as David ushered them on after a brief explanation. Feeling sort of stupid just laying there I decided that we needed to just wrap this up, a cool couch sounds better than the soft trail dirt anyway; although it did feel pretty good….then again I’m sure that anything feels better than spending countless hours running a 100 mile trail race!

As we rounded the last peak at the Trabuco aid station I was happy to see Keira Henninger, all smiles and dancing around….I gave her a hug , looked at her and she must’ve saw it in my eyes….”you don’t need any more water, your good to go….you just wanna get off this damn mountain don’t ya” she said. With a nod I said “Hell yes” turned and started to run down the Main Divide to the finish line.

I ran hard all the way down, the pain had gone, I was set on just one thing now and it was right here, as I reached the finish line I jumped in the air and landed two feet together, like a moon landing, or a gymnast that knows they had given all they had, contentment and success. Everyone has tests and challenges that they face through their lives, we live from day to day and do what we can. For me, I carry this for myself, not a badge to brag about but a stepping stone.. a support to keep me strong in the face of the future; knowing that I did what I thought once I could not do.

Mount Disappointment

2010-10-06T12:17:00.000-07:00

It’s very early, geez did I even get to sleep?, I roll over to hit the button on my alarm and a wave of depression hits me…..1:45am! Are you kidding me! And being a good little running soldier I roll out of bed and prepare to head out the door with my gear.

Gary Hilliard had warned us time and time again about the detours heading to Mt.Wilson the start point of this year’s Mt. Disappointment endurance race; so time and time again I reviewed my pre-race time plan to see if I could squeeze a minute more sleep to no avail; early to a race is ok but late just plain sucks…

We arrived earlier than expected but the time seemed to pass very quickly and before we knew it the race was about to start. This year we had to park in an overflow parking area set aside from the main parking which was now being used as a staging area for helicopter landings and communication line repair work that was required due to the devastating wild fire last year. Luckily the food and sitting areas along with the bathroom hadn’t been burnt and were now useable for the race; hey!, we will take what we get.

At the start we assembled, energy in the air and friends all around we waited for good ole’ Gary and his loudspeaker to fill us in with the details in his own special way. He had done a lot this year for the race and the forestry service and every word deserved to be heard.

With my previous military experience I along with a few others marked the start of the race and we were off just like that!.... The beginning of the race as with last year began on asphalt and downhill on Mt.Wilson Road which is a temptation for most to just plain haul ass…and they did! As I passed a runner he commented how fast the pace was and complimented my friend Michelle at her speed. “you have to run your own race here, don’t get caught up with the pace” I said, brushing away my own advice as I pushed downhill averaging from medium 6’s to low 7’s.

As I grinded out the pavement portion of the downhill I came upon the first Check station/Aid station at Redbox, last year we turned left here into the beautiful forest; this year it was a sharp right along Redbox road the dirt fire road which continues its journey downward towards Westfork which holds the distinction as being the halfway mark as well as the last station before the dreaded Kenyon Devore uphill. Rounding a turn on Redbox Rd I caught a glimpse of Michelle Barton ahead of me, we ran alongside each other down the fire roads, past the line workers who all looked on and offered support and through the ravaged hillsides. We jumped over streams and bounded along as if on a typical relaxing training run listening to our various jumble of dare to be hip songs on our MP3s, the Westfork aid station greeted us with even more amazing people as we filled our bottles; the uphill were coming and Michelle was eager to get going, she was gone before I knew it to continue her own journey.

I pushed up the fire roads with the speed of a gazelle…..ok maybe a water logged elephant ha ha… and before long was passed by Sada Crawford, she looked strong and steady, I was taking in calories as she passed and shortly ahead she too was doing the same so I’ll take credit for her win due to the importance of the reminder of caloric intake prior to the hills we were about face…no...ok, I tried. At the top of the fire road at Newcomb we take a quick turn off the road which gets me excited thinking it’s back to the single tracks again!!! Nope, just another smaller fire road, the downhill of this section felt good, shaking my quads up and giving me a break from the uphill. At the Newcomb aid station I was told that I was now behind around 6 guys and two girls but with the big uphill’s coming I was going to just enjoy that while it lasted. I asked if that was the big long climb that I just ran up and the volunteer laughed, hmm..not sure at that point if I was trying to joke or not; but I laughed too…..sighed and kept running.

I read a lot about running uphill’s, maybe cause I need work on that portion of my running, lactic acid, quick small steps…..bla bla…I need an escalator!, that’s what I need! The long uphill had begun and it was the misleading type, not just a continuous grade; it had teeth. At some points it was considerably steeper than others but it just continued on and on. I realized that my initial quad pounding debut to this new course was now catching up to me..Dang!, I’m such a sucker for a downhill… and I began to slow, content with just forward progress.

Then they came, one after another, all my friends Mike Campian, Rudy Montoya, Mark Dorman and of course Keithski. “What’s up man”, “How ya doin?” “Good, Good, Great, Good” I said one after another; because I was, and I felt good, I did..I swear, crazy I know; that aside from just seeing my INKnBURN teammates and friends of course.

Ahead in the opposite direction I was happy to see Andy Kumeda, Todd Hiskey, Wendy Barth, Sharon Pevsner, and Marisa Wilment running strong on their own training run down from Newcomb; so many friends way out here…I love this sport!

There was a point mid way along the Edison uphill that I looked up and saw a trail ahead of me, it looked as if it carried up along the communication line poles at an incredible angle, super steep and then carried back down and around…. “There’s no way that’s the trail, is that the saddle” I thought as I strained to see movement of runners struggling up that impossible hill, but couldn’t see any. I continued to run, trying to verify the upcoming trail, in full denial of what I saw. Then I looked up and saw it, the next aid station, perched high on the trail ahead of me to the left above some sharp switchbacks…the trail I had seen earlier was only the maintenance road for the poles themselves, relieved I ran on…I don’t have any climbing ropes with me anyways.

I saw both Charlie Nickels of INKnBURN and Badwater Ben near the top of Newcomb taking photos of the runners and with a few readjustments and a large smile I picked up the pace as I approached them for my glamour shots; I was still smiling as I continued to the Aid station on shortcut.

The Foothill flyers were hosting this aid station and they did a great job, they were friendly and I was greeted immediately; man I love ultra aid stations and all the great volunteers in this sport. With bottle filled, some watermelon, soda and gummies I was gone “44 out” I said as I jogged away.

The trek back from the 21 mile mark was interesting, until now I haven’t seen too much actual trail – in fact, it had been all fire road, I was excited to set my Brooks onto some good trail I then turned off the fire road with a child’s anticipation.

As I’m running down the hillside in Shortcut Canyon I’m reminded of the desert, the soft dirt beneath my feet, the downhill feels good and my pace increases as I weave back and forth dodging the underbrush and plants that extend over the trail, the trail is thin and I’m constantly looking out for the one plant that will trip me and send me over the edge into the canyon. With the devastating wildfires clearing the vegetation, the rain took advantage and ripped the hillsides apart covering the existing trails with muddy landslides and debris… it was here that I could seem to appreciate the extreme work that was done to allow us to run. The cut out trails were just wide enough to run and I could feel my feet in some spots moving it downward there were a few areas here that seemed to sweep you away causing you to high step quickly to avoid skiing down the steep hill – rocks and dirt in tow. Like an army of heavy pavement rollers today’s runners were toughening up this new trail for future hikers and runners alike and that made me feel good.

Although we’ve been following the river, we now enter the river bed itself, strewn with rocks and boulders. The trail here seems to evaporate and it’s now an adventure run as you attempt to spot the next flag or calk mark ahead, seeking out footprints of those before you or movement ahead of you to help guide you along.

Before long you find yourself at the last aid station, you refill your bottles, take in some energy and cool yourself down, ahhh! Many people were tempted here but many were stronger than I, the ice devil got me, he sat me down and poured ice water over my head; covered me with his icy hand towels and I was trapped in his web! I don’t know how much time passed, seconds, minutes, hours…. It took a few runners and Greg Hardesty and his ultra lady, the beautiful Marla Hernandez to pull me out of his trance. “gotta go!” I said as I broke free from his grasp and began to run up towards the finish line; one crazy hill to go…

The last stage was a blur, I remember last year hitting the wall here and was happy that it didn’t happen. I worked my way up to the finish on Mt.Wilson spotting Dean Dobberteen driving home, he’s a stud runner and honestly a great guy, after a brief congratulations to each other I was off to cheers from friends and another Mt.Disappointment finish. I’ve learned a lot since last year’s run at Mt.Disappointment but this year’s lesson wasn’t worth the price….fires suck and those that are irresponsible with or cause them suck even more!

The environment, the wilderness, the trails, the volunteers, the line workers..they don’t deserve what the fire has left them. Its compassion and teamwork, it’s those that are willing to sweat and sacrifice their own time for the benefit of others that I want to thank personally for the opportunity that you gave me to run this race once more.

And a special thanks to Gary Hilliard the gladiator behind this race resurrection – amazing job my friend, it won’t be forgotten.

Mommy, that Old Goat ate my lunch!

2010-03-29T12:10:00.000-07:00

March, 27,2010

I’m really not a complainer, I’m not. Years of organized discipline have engrained a sense of “just dig and don’t complain” mentality and its proven to be pretty effective over years of marriage and children but I have to say..”Mommy, Mommy this old goats eating my lunch!”

The thought crossed my mind many times on Saturday. Why?, well it was on this day that a brilliantly charismatic old trail runner named Steve Harvey decided to entice us adventure seeking ultra runners into running what’s called the Old Goats 50 Miler Trail run, like a cruel pied piper of sorts. Now, I can’t really say it took a lot to get us to sign up; in fact many of us are local enough to know exactly what we were in for……and we did it anyway. Hey look at that electrical socket!, I think I’ll put this paper clip in it!

I’m not gonna get into MY issues at this race (that would be boring and might make you cry, rather, I’m going to just take us through it).

The general setting for the morning of the race finds you weaving through early morning mountain roads, stretching your eyes open around every turn as if that would make you see better in the dark on Ortega Hwy. Then it happens, suddenly the turn off is upon you!, “Old Goats Trail Run” the letter are in RED which should warn you…but you turn off anyway. After a few more narrow turns you find yourself at Blue Jay campground and park your vehicle on the side of the road behind some other crazy person (which is unusually comforting) and begin your final preparations in the light of your car.

By the time you walk down to collect your bib you’ve said about 5 hellos and good mornings; the great thing is that most of the people you met on your way were friends and familiar faces! Everyone’s collected by the start line and main tents, smiling faces, people bundled up, I can see my breath but the sky looks amazing and I know it’s gonna be a beautiful day.

Pam Everett is here; smiling as always, Michelle Barton and Keith Swiatkowski, Angela Shartel, Carey Edge, Anne and Steve…I could go on and on, this is a favorite local race put on by RD Steve Harvey and it attracts pretty much everyone that I know….and if you haven’t met them…you should, they’re all great people.

As we huddle around the start line, saying our final hello’s we hear the count down and before we know it the crowd has begun to spread out past the start line. Amazing the differences are between my recent LA Marathon run and this, no shuffling, no start line frustration….it “begins YOU and ends YOU” here on the trail. This race will work its way along the San Juan Trail and is one of the most beautiful runs in the area, bouncing along the single path trails, working your way around boulders and trees, up over ridges and down into valleys to boulder over streams and draws; its just an amazing run.

After awhile you hit the first Aid station; alive with activity; your met with encouragement and the smiling faces of even more friends, Keira Henninger (The amazing LD50 RD) and Pam Everett again!, they are serving candy and goodies today…yum yum, I fill my bottles and continue on my way around the Candy Store loop to begin my climb back up San Juan. Scott Mills goes by, steady and strong, very nice; but can’t focus on him, gotta work within myself so I drive on. At this point I begin to cross paths with many other friends due to the nature of the course; at this point we are all fairly fresh and excited……at this point.

I’m happy, been running downhill for some good fun mileage but now it’s time to pay the piper, this continuous uphill can catch you off guard if you’ve burnt your quads coming down and for me…I love technical down hills so I’ve been burning them! By the time I reach Blue Jay I’ve been Chick’d (it’s not really a word- even in the Urban dictionary but its humbling none the less). Actually these women are amazing, Carey, Angela, Michelle…I’m not ashamed, I know these women and yes….you’d get Chick’d too. “Just Smile and Wave Boys, Just Smile and Wave”.

Feeling sore now, Unusually sore (thanks paved marathons) but I’m happy to see Steve and the gang at the Blue Jay Aid Station. “Now aren’t you glad you paid for this?”, Steve said. Dang!, cant cancel my check..I paid cash. With a laugh and cry combination I continue along towards the Main Divide and Trabuco Aid Station, the ground cruches beneath my Cascadias as I work my way up the steep grades towards Trabuco Trail, the sun is out strong today but I’m greeted with a cool wind that at points seems to push me along. Soon I am at the top and with a “Larry!” am greeted by the wonderful Molly Kassouf and suddenly I’ve just forgotten about the last 35 min of grueling hill. She and Eric Koster’s are awesome here and their attitude makes me feel so much better; Molly presents the menu and specials of the day…and what a selection they have!

I sit down to work with my calf that’s been causing problems and it’s here that I notice that I have a ride-along (tick) smack dab on my knee-cap!, what a weird place for a stupid tick.. I mean.. I have softer, more hidden spots than that….but…with Molly’s help he’s gone and I’m on my way(thanks Molly).

The run down Trabuco is relaxing, although its downhill, there are many rocks here and your feet need to adjust to the pounding of this trail, it’s still beautiful and I’m grateful to be able to run and enjoy it. I run along the tree lines, across exposed shale trails, under fallen logs and around shady brooks you see it all here until you are greeted by the Holy Jim Aid Station and its amazing volunteers! A potatoe and salt, a little vasaline, some water and I’m gone again……up, up, up Holy Jim.

Holy@#@$!, or Holy Jim is another beautiful trail through our local mountains as it weaves its way up towards Santiago Peak/Bear Springs. I stop by one of the stream crossings to fill my hat with cold stream water, lifting it up.. I place it directly on my head as the water pours down..Holy @#$@ that felt good. The recent rains have created a wonderfully green hillside, flowers greet the trail lining it with purples, whites, reds and pinks. I decide to run every other switchback in an effort to cut time and generally I stick to it, for awhile at least, then it’s back to hiking the remainder. Its about here that If I were talking about just me during this run…I’d tell you it didn’t look good, but… induldge me as I continue.

Lorraine Gersitz powers by and offers some encouragement, speaking of encouragement, she is another amazing runner; an inspiration. As I made my way to Bear Springs I hear laughing, loud laughing coming from the top of the rise. Bear Springs Aid Station greets me with a smack in the face!, Bill Ramsey a Grand Canyon R2R2R partner, LT the 100 mile superhero and BAAZ! Ha ha what a collection of volunteers to get the motivation meter back up… I tried to explain my problems but they didn’t care, they kicked me out and sent my sorry ____ up the hill toward Santiago Peak!, actually this is a great place to have this collection of professionals, experienced and beyond knowledgeable, I felt in good hands here.

The journey to the top of Santiago Peak is one I’ve done many times now, it’s a test and not to be taken lightly, on the top somewhere is a journal for all those that have made the journey and here we are racing to the top; it’s a compliment to all of us and to some a journey not just to the top but one of self discovery.

I see my friend David Cristof heading down the peak, his stride looks strong and his attitude is always resolute, he encourages me as we pass, driving me on. After a brief stop and a suggestion for lay down cots at the Peak Aid Station I begin my decent and return to Blue Jay, on my way down , I see Jean Ho defiantly working her way up the peak, smiling we wish each other the best and continue on…. What a wonderful day, I’ve made it to the top of the world and will take each journey with me for the rest of my life.

Me and the San Juan 50K

2010-03-10T21:58:00.000-08:00

March 6,2010

Tap, Tap,Tap is this thing on…… Lets talk about Peer Pressure…..

Dictionary.com defines Peer Pressure as:

The social influence a peer group exerts on its individual members, as each member attempts to conform to the expectations of the group.

Ok, Ok it wasn’t that bad; and yeah..it was ME that brought the question of running the SJ50k up at the last minute. I procrastinated about signing up for awhile, with my running calendar filling up I hadn’t officially planned to run it BUT… by the time I seriously considered it the weather predictions had already been set. You see.. its easier to have signed up for a race prior to knowing that it’ll be raining rather than to stare at a computer screen with all forcasts pointing to rain falling on the day of the race (that you still need to fork out for)….

So.. me and my wisdom I sent the question of running the SJ50k out to my ultra running friends – P.S. this does no good if you are seeking a way out. Ok, now that I’m out of excuses…

I’ve run in the rain before, I actually kinda like it, so why not…besides many of my friends will be there; it could be a blast.

With peer pressure in place it was decided, anyway.. it would be a great opportunity to wear my INKnBURN “OUTNBACK tech shirt…… BAZ…I’ll be there in the morning rain or shine with cash in hand... the latest of the late registrations.

BZZZZZZZ! My cell phone screams and I slowly roll off the bed, its not the typical run anticipated bedside launch ;no, it’s the went to bed a 12:30pm I’m still tired and now I’m so comfortable bed separation anxiety. What’s that song….Blah, Blah, Blah ok let’s talk about SJ50k. Time check.. 5:00am

Gathered around Blue Jay we stood laughing and catching up with friends, Baz his typical self was loud and friendly….. well, “Baz Friendly” I looked it up but couldn’t find any real definition; you just have to meet him and experience it for yourself. Time check.. 6:50am

The SJ50k takes you down from Blue jay all the way to the Candy store off of Ortega, spins you around and shoots you back up, and up, and up through Blue jay again up the Main Divide, down Trabuco trail then up the Fun Fun Happy Joy Joy Horse thief trail then back to the start at Blue jay campground.

So with a 3,2,1 we were off… so much better than those pre packaged large marathons, we were off and running, not shuffling, running…..and it was supposed to rain, it was. But we lucked out and although the cloud cover was there we ran in cool air on soft trails (if you take out all the rocks) this run has a wide variety of conditions that reminded runners that I spoke to of PCT50, Noble Canyon and more! I love technical down hills and can fly down them fairly easily which helped me gain ground on many of the runners that kicked out ahead as we began.

Everything was green, moss on the rocks, ferns sprouting from moist soil on the trailside, this whole area is abundant with beauty…. Only problem is that you have no time to look as you bounce from one rockless spot to another. Up ahead I catch up to Carey Edge… shes amazing and I take in a very brief moment of satisfaction as I pass her… after I tell here that I will see her again on the uphill section and that moment comes very soon as she strides by me on an uphill….oh well, that half mile felt good anyway….

There were a few water crossings along the way, some with stepping rocks and some without…. It takes a split second of thought..then, SCREW IT! As you plunge through stepping quickly as if the water would be caught off guard and forget to get your feet wet ha ha yeah right!
I was impressed by the trail markings, very bold and easy, and was really happy to see friends at each and every aid station!. Aid stations, friendly faces, assortments of goodies…very nice. I blew through the Candy store A/S even though I was being pitched water, Gatorade or food as I ran by ha ha ha. Technical down hills are much easier to sail down then to go up and at this point I hadn’t even finished half a bottle of water so I was feeling pretty good. I had decided to cut back on the salt as an experiment; just taking in Gatorade and food to supplement. In the end it did affect me negatively but I’m still working out the system that’ll work best for me, oh well.

This section is an out and back so you meet and greet as you share the trail with others still coming down, its great to see friends out there..we all know from being out there that many runs can be pretty lonely at times. As I was working my way up I noticed Keira Henninger, behind me and before I knew it I was greeted with her wonderful attitude, and beautiful smile, she looked so good out there!, I was happy to see here burning up the trails again.. she’s a trooper, the energizer bunny on nitrous; and off she went.

I continue climbing only then to feel this gust of wind called Angela Shartel go by, “Hey Larry!” then gone…. Obviously I’m beginning to slow down succumbing to last minutes and late nights. Another runner coming up … David Christof! Always a welcome site… he continues on strong as always. As I continued toward the top Michelle Barton appeared out of nowhere and before I could get a piggyback ride she also was gone……like a dream. Ok, this is getting ridiculous! Lets stop taking pictures and buckle down now……

Blue jay came quicker than expected and I was happy to again see aid station smiley faces.. BAZ was here and offered support (in his own way) to runners as they ran through, great guy.

Main Divide was as expected, exposed and rocky….oh….and up hill; depending on your direction of course. I wanted rain, didn’t get it yet; I remember running Chimera in the rain here and it seemed to take my mind off the run, I ran the whole thing that day. After awhile I reached the Trabuco A/S and was greeted by Keith Swiatkowski….again!, man that guy is kicking some ass out here volunteering..really cool to see him – go INKnBURN!.

I was looking forward to Trabuco Trail, it’s covered and oh…key point...DOWNHILL. Seemed very rocky this time though and once you reach the exposed areas it turns to shale, each rock seeking your ankle! I passed a runner that decided to turn around…a major victim of the WALL…. Not a good place to be. Checked if he needed anything…he had taken salt and had fluids left.. the A/S were notified by shortwave.

At the bottom after hopping over a stream we turned to tackle …. Horsethief Trail…. If you haven’t experienced this trail you should just … hmm .. cant even explain it, just think steep never ending rocky trail that seems to go on and on and on….. I actually said I’d try run the whole thing ha ha ha dumb ass! We’ll skip ahead to the top.

Marisa Willment met me at the top Horse thief A/S, It was great to see another InB Burner, she was in typical good spirits as she began her return down the Main Divide to Blue Jay. I chased her along the Main Divide, through the Trabuco A/S and caught her on the downhill to Blue Jay, I wanted to stay behind awhile longer (much better view that way)  but continued on into Blue Jay to the finish! Immediately grabbed a beer and sat down to have a few more laughs with friends, that’s the great thing about trail running…..there are so many good people here, fast …slow it really doesn’t matter we’re all friends.

In Summary, there were many many friends that were out there and I apologize if you weren’t mentioned… your all great, but I go on and on as is. So….Great trail, Great Day, Great SJ50k put on by BAZ and his support teams…P.S you all know how valuable you are. I would definitely give this run a shot if you haven’t, it’ll be worth it; and I’ll drink a beer with you at the end…no problem. 

Twin Peaks 50miler - up up and away.

2010-03-10T21:36:00.000-08:00

February 12, 2010
This is a little long winded but it WAS a 50 miler......

This race for me had a history; over a period of time I've heard many things about the Twin Peaks 50/50 race. Some good, some not so good, it was because of this that I didnt have to many expectations for it to be monumental. I was however planning on it being tough because no matter how you look at it; the mountains not coming down for you no matter who organized this one; its 17,000 feet of gut check; one way or the other….

With everything prepaired and handhelds in place I set out casually ( ok, I wasn't quite ready at race start but I didnt feel the urgency to just go when they said go....after all its 50 miles. In the beginning of this run I had forgotten to turn on my brain, as a result I followed some of the front runners as they made their way through the neighborhood....I blindly followed them until they stopped, confused, and turned around to run the RIGHT way!...Oh my, how’s the rest of the race gonna go.

I continue to press on feeling good, feeling strong. Before I knew it I was in front heading up Indian Truck Trail....after about 5.5 miles I was quite a bit ahead and on my own, but not for long...a light turned on behind me......turned on? Sneaky...the old don't scare him to run faster trick!!! ha ha ha after awhile I watched him pass; after all I had a long way to go...I was settling in to feeling comfortable and definitely not going to chase anyone right now.

As I approached the Main divide I was now in 3rd and feeling good, it was on to W. Horsethief. Wheres the A/S … oh there it is… a pile of boxed up water…..oh well, It felt good to fly downhill, I had to watch my speed as I dance on the large rocks that live here on this trail and by the time I reached Holy Jim A/S I was feeling tired but good, it can be to easy to pound your legs going down that one. Good to see a familiar face as I was greeted by George Puente Valasco, I shed layers here and enjoyed some calories and laughter as I joked around, ok, ok it’s been long enough....so off I went again to tackle the Holy Jim Ascent. As I approached the lower streams I enjoyed the mental break in scenery as I balance across logs or hopped from rock to rock across the stream. It was here that I felt my Hip Flexor quietly remind me of a past injury, I chose to slow down, to moderate and see how it was going to play out. I also think that it was here that I mentally chose to run this race more casually and try to enjoy myself more...so I did.

I reached the top of Holy Jim and was surprised at how informal it was… a few boy scout types hanging around, a small table off to the left about 15 yards with some lone water jugs and such, I could’ve even missed the table if I had my head down and continued up Santiago. Hey! But waters water! I gulped down half a bottle and filled both handhelds back to full. I then began my assault of Santiago peak - well strong walking assault I guess. I think that my future races will be more disciplined in sections of running and walking I need to work on that I guess J . The trip up Santiago was slow, it seems that once I start walking my legs feel more like weights than anything; I actually feel better jogging up. ( I tell you that in hindsight……I still walked up quite a bit ). When I get done with this I’m gonna focus on my quick hiking skills, I’m getting passed up and its starting to piss me off….. me and my less than long legs ha ha ha. By the time I reach the top of Santiago I’m feeling good, the snow cooled me down and thoughts of me laying in it making snow angels cheered me up a bit.

The Santiago Aid station was stocked and I sat down and joked around a bit again, Damn socializings gonna cost me ha ha ha….. quick rock from shoe removal and I was out of there. The day was amazing and the temperatures were great, its amazing up here and I’m happy to be living in an area with such running opportunity. I sailed down Santiago and before I knew it I was bouncing down Upper Holy Jim trail, with the latest rains this area was a series of jumping from once side to another to avoid the water and mountain bike torn path. At the bottom I searched for guidance, arrows, signs but it was only my past experience of the area and route study that lead my direction, I was worried that other 50mers might continue left on the divide in confusion.

Back to the water table at the top of Holy Jim and down! Down! Down! I remembered chasing LT down this and sailed to the bottom catching a few runners as I did. I began to run into friends on this trail as they were ascending like my Grand Canyon Brother David Cristof who was his cheerfull self, always good to see David. I past by the man himself Greg Hardesty and the energizer bunny Lorraine Gersitz who was running up Holy Jim….very nice. I ran into another friend coming up David Colwick, man, I’m seeing everyone now and it helps boost me. David mentions another friend who was supposed to be here today.. Maura Priest, I was concerned at first until I found out that she got lost and couldn’t find the start of the race ….man…bummer!. Ha ha ha …. Sorry just remembered, as I was running through the lower portions of Holy Jim theres a section where the brush has formed a tunnel over the trail….. I was sailing through here and saw some hikers with kids on the other side, I was feeling good so I picked up my pace (yes – to impress) …… didn’t see that a branch was hanging lower than usual….almost scalped me; blew my hat right off and clipped the top of my head ha ha……”man, you ok!” said a hiker….”oh, yeah…didn’t really hit me” I said. Wrong!, my head was ringing….I’m such a dumbass ha ha Got what I deserved. Always run with caution and humility or nature will remind you were you really are!.

As I approached the Lower Holy Jim A/S I was greeted by a few runners that hadn’t set out yet; I joked around again this time about wanting a helicopter or something, can’t remember now. I was glad to see my drop bag and the goodies that it contained, gulped down a chocolate milk ensure and was good to go. If I hadn’t mentioned this before….I don’t like W. Horsethief trail; particularly the going up part so as I headed out, I was in a battle that was more mental than physical and it continued till I got to the top. Of course on my way up I met with Andy Kumeda and Catra Korbet who seemed to have more vigor here than I; Catra turned down my request for a piggy back ride to the top….dang! ( that was with her giving ME a ride to the top) Wheres the dang elevator!

At the top of Horsethief I was glad to see that they had set up a small ez-up and were manning and womaning this area, It would have been a big boost though to see my friend Steve here…….. well, gotta push on. Moving along the Main Divide was nice, I’ve run this so many times that I felt pretty comfortable cruising along and before I knew it I was at the Indian Truck Trail A/S……talking, joking around, sitting down…wasting time ha ha…. And with a pat on the back there was Keith Swiatkowski!, great to see him! And then Beiyi Zheng and Carmela….Hey it’s a party! Guess I need another Dr.Pepper! but with a few more laughs realization began to sink in as they all began to leave for the top of Santiago again……. Wait…hey….but…..Dang…..After suggesting that the A/S be supplied with cots and getting laughs (I was serious though) I took off again. Keith had mentioned having beer in his car… hhmm… I could just run down Indian Truck Trail right now…call it a day and give up my domino – or – continue my pain and hit Santiago one more time; Damn, Keith has the car keys and he’s left already……so I chased him.

I hit Santiago harder this time, my body had understood that I was going to fight through this one and It gave in to me and my TrailHeadz mentality so I ran and ran…. Passing By Beiyi and Carmela again I joked around took some pictures and headed up stronger than the first time. Once I reached to top I sucked down some warm soup and watched to sun set….AHHHH. Other runners were suiting back up as the temperatures dropped and now with my headlamp in place I headed out just after Keith again. With the mountains in covered in dusks light I ran down Santiago without my headamp on, almost in a trance, the focus can be so intense that you feel like you are aware of every stone before you…. You take in the whole road beneath and ahead of you without looking at anything in particular and just sail; it was amazing.

I headed down Upper Holy Jim and with my Headlamp on now I bounced again from side to side, passing a few runners on the way, I approached one runner that didn’t have his headlamp and felt sorry for him, whatever the reason he was going to have problems unless he had nightvision.

At the Indian Truck Trail A/S I downed another Dr.Pepper and joked with Keith again about my drive to aid him with any drinking of beer that might be done after we finish and with a laugh he again was off “see ya at the bottom”….. a few final jokes and thanks to the crew I was gone once more, this time for good. I ran the final Length of the Indian Truck Trail feeling really good, I remember chasing Greg Hardesty down here on a training run a few weeks prior, had a great time then and looked forward to my run down. This time I was chasing Keith; I passed a runner on my way and had gotten pretty close to Keith when suddenly a rock came out of nowhere and grabbed my big toe sending me wildly sprawling in long strides…I went down on my right handheld and thanked the powers that be. I didn’t eat it; somehow. I went back to pick up my remaining bottle that ejected in my spastitude and I continued on…… I looked down the dark hill and spotted Keiths light in the distance… I wondered if he’d seen my light fly around as I did my downhill lunge techniques.

I gained ground after time and soon was just behind Keith as we passed by Andy Kumeda and Catra Korbet, both great runners and people. Joking around about my extra fast food weight assisting me on the downhills we were off in pursuit of the finish now. It was dark, very dark but the temperatures were not that bad and I was in rhythm now heading downhill, I ran behind Keith as we headed toward the finish and stayed there until the end, In a long race like this, not sure if it’s just me……but near the end I noticed a light behind me trying to gain ground. I was hoping to push Keith with me behind him to stay in front of whom ever it was; Keith being the strong runner he is kept with a faster pace until we crossed…….now my point. I just feel that out of a certain respect for the actual distance, if you are running a 50 mile race and you are within say….200-300 yards from the finish….I personally am just going to keep my place as long as the person ahead of me is running strong. I’m not going to try to sprint at the last moment to move up a place…..not sure if there is a name for it; but that’s just not me. Anyway as far as Keith is concerned he wouldn’t have made it easy for me if I would’ve tried that move anyway… ha ha ha.

Sitting down and thinking about the race at the end, looking at my Medal – not domino, I was thank full that I ran it……not as much for the race but for me….on to the next one. Better and stronger next time!

Overall observations:

Early morning A/S were not set up as I had hoped, but I was ready for that. As the day went on these issues were corrected and the aid stations were stocked with all that was needed. The volunteers were great and appreciated! As always.

Directions………..the surveyor – or whomever they were that went up to assist in the guidance left much for improvement…..I’m very familiar with the trail and I studied the course before I ran it like ALL should do. There were moments of insecurity for me even with preparation due to lack of signage but again…. Everyone that deems themselves prepared to try on a race of this distance should be prepared both physically and mentally which means that they ashould be aware of the course changes and know the general routes prior to running. With the google earth and images given there is really no sympathy for someone making long distance critical errors in direction.

The runner tracking option for this race was a waste of energy that could have gone to something else….my family tried to track me and had nothing but confusion; maybe given time….just not now it was a innovative attempt but unless your sure it’s going to be effective….don’t do it.

Great day, great friends……overall….a Great day…………..

I love the snow...but you've gotta work to get to it.

2010-01-25T21:32:00.000-08:00

I ran back up the Harding Truck Trail this morning with a few friends, it was a great morning, clean, fresh; man its nice to be out in the mountains again after that long rain. Running through the mountains after a good rain......Its a different feeling that I cant explain with only words, maybe weird to some but others that run or hike would understand. You can feel it in every stride; you can breathe it in and its....its just so refreshing.

I've recently just been up Harding so I'm very familiar with the condition of the mountain prior to the rains. Today as I ran I saw the power of nature, road that was washed away; gouged and torn by the force of water....really amazing.

After about 7 miles I began to ear my footfalls...louder...crunching against my stride; so cool.

Frost turns to light snow, light snow fades to white and before I know it we're running in fairly deep snow! luckily its still early and we are on the protected side of the mountain... the snow is crisp and is holding our weight as we run; remember grasshopper...how to run on rice paper...

After around 2 miles we reached the Main Divide and looked upon the snow covered mountain ranges; it was a painting.. now it time to run downhill!!

Ghost Hunting at Calico 50k Trail run

2010-01-18T10:21:00.000-08:00

Sunday Jan 17th, 2010
Scratching, soft and faint, I reposition myself in bed, scratching, soft and faint opens my eyes in the darkness; the still, black darkness. A tree branch?, the gate? could be leaves brushing up against the bathroom window and then movement... quick and elusive, a shadow in the darkness, goose-bumps....I feel hairs rise with expectation, with caution as I slowly get out of bed… I rub my eyes; just cant seem to make out the door of my room, blackness, realizing that its open, confusion sets in as I struggle to wake up. Its not darkness in the doorway!, something else, I'm not looking beyond the doorway into the black of night but in the doorway itself, somethings there blocking the darkness beyond it and then…………….. The alarm goes off, 3:30am in Orange County and here I am…… dont even have to force it!……I smile and get out of bed! What a send off for a meeting with a Ghost town..Its always a great morning when you wake up for a race; ok I get up the same way when I'm going fishing too but today its all about running the Calico 50k.

With all of my gear carefully packed the night before it didn’t take me long to get race dressed and get out the door. Stopping by my favorite 7-11 for wake up coffee (really its chocolate and sugar mixed with some coffee) I was gone.

Its been a hundred years since my last visit to Calico, since then its burnt down and been rebuilt by Knotts Berry Farm and Im excited to see what it looks like now; located in Yermo CA its about a 1hr:45min drive so I should be there by 6:00am which would give me ample time to collect my bib and goody bag before the race.

Today Calico was honoring Joe Morris, now 83 of Daggett, he was recruited as a Code Talker after Pearl Harbor in WWII and used his native tongue to create a means of communication that was unbreakable in regards to the Germans and its allies. So that's pretty cool to see first hand.

As I arrived I met up with some friends as we prepared ourselves for today’s run, Michelle was her normal cheerful self and Charlie was as always a welcome site. We collected ourselves and gathered around the start line in the center of the street in Calico; we listened as we were wished a safe journey in the Navajo language and with a 3,2,1 it began.

The race start is a fast one, it zipped down a paved road for over 1.5 miles and many runners seem to push themselves hard here; including myself, I had seen a flash of red and knew that Michelle had rocketed herself out to the head of the pack. After awhile we finaly turn off onto welcome dirt; its deep! A truck trail full of soft sand looms ahead and you find yourself continually bouncing around to locate firm footholds. We're in the open now exposed on the valley floor and as the gentle arc of the roads leads us around the mountain range I long to hit the hills and firmer ground, up through the valleys past the aid station we enter hills and terrain and at this point I'm welcoming the change as I feel my stride increase with each firmer step.

I feel that I ran strong for a large part of the run although the sand did work my legs more than expected, Once we hit the mountainous areas the loose rocks and scrambles spoke to me in aches and pains, a little surprising to me how the sand had affected me though, I guess I need to work on this type of terrain more often. As you run through this area you see tunnels and mining roads that cover the hills like swiss cheese holes and you gain an appreciation for the miners that would toll in these mountains…without expensive running shoes and aid stations.

Some of the views here are awe inspiring, the crest of the mountains at Aid station 3 were stunning on such a beautiful morning and the volunteers were always very supportive and friendly, after a quick conversation and a few laughs I moved on.

As I ran through the hills and gorges, across the ups and downs of the martian landscape and into the last valley I was happy, tired but happy. Rounding the last turn into the town and through the parking lot I found some hidden energy that pushed me quickly to the last hill; were I stopped. This was a crazy employee vehicle entrance…a good 30 degree + pitch that spoke directly to my already aching legs, it was the last 200 yards of this race and it was going to remind you were you had come from. After a few moans and groans I pushed myself up and then entered Calico Ghost town quickly taking advantage of the downhill as I ran through the finish line……..whew…..gotta be around 5:00hrs; nope 5:20’s the sand got me… Oh yeah..and all these pictures I keep taking; and with a relieved smile it was over.

Got my meal ticket, sat with a fellow trail runner from the BAD RATS and ate chili and lemonade - Yum. I looked for my friends; said my goodbyes, and was back home by 3:00..... what a day!

Up Up and Away the Harding Truck Trail way!

2010-01-10T18:54:00.000-08:00

Just off the Highway, just beyond Modjeska Canyon “Tucked” away at the end is a valley called “Tucker” valley :) which lies right at the edge of the Cleveland National Forest and its here that you will find the Tucker Wildlife Santuary. http://nsm.fullerton.edu/tucker/

Tucker Wildlife Santuary is a 12-Acre non-profit preserve which is operated by the College of Natural Sciences and Mathmatics at Cal State University, Fullerton. The preserve is both open to the public and its free Tuesday thru Sunday…..Tucker's facilities include a small natural history museum/interpretive center, two ponds, a bird observation porch and feeders, relaxing patio and picnic areas, a small amphitheater, a caretaker's house, hiking trails, a gift shop, restrooms and an ample visitor parking lot; which for us is the start of our journey this morn

ing.

As I began to prepare my gear for the days run I paused for a moment to enjoy the quiet of the canyon, it was a little cool now but the blue sky that met the hilltops had begun spilling sunlight along the ridge; it might be pretty hot today so my plan to only bring two water bottles was changed to now include my blowfish camelback and a single bottle ( I like to fill the bottle from the pack and carry that way – don’t ask, got no answer). As my friends began to arrive I was getting excited; this trail was new for me and I was ready to start exploring.

There would be 5 of us on this run today; all good company Greg, Mark, Shannon and Annette with me of course. After a few moments talking about upcoming races and Gregs hair (from long to short) we started off on the Harding Truck Trail which begins directly across from the parking lot of the preserve.

All buckled down we set off up Harding, then continued up Harding, up harding and kept going up Harding…..there’s a continuous theme here don’t you think. Harding Truck Trail is a beautiful trail which extends from the floor of Modjeska Canyon and intersects with the large Main Divide road in the Cleveland National Forest, its about 9.2 miles one way. Harding Trail sits on the north side of the ridgeline and is a nice non-technical trail, because of its position it receives the long shadow of the morning resulting in a nice shady trail for most of your early journey.

As I reached the Main Divide at “Four Corners” I took in the views of the Santa Ana Mountains along with a few mountain bikers that had paused for a moment -(I had caught up to them earlier on Harding), with a morning greeting we moved along the Divide passing the site of the Maple Springs Aid station for the Chimera 100; memories of cold rain, wind and the tent being blown down….good times ..Gooood Times!@#$ and headed up once more. At the top of Modjeska Peak we soak in a 360 degree view of everything... the snow covered top of Mt.San Antonio, Perris , Santiago Peak, Catalina, Del Mar, Encinitas Beaches….all are in play up here; beautiful. Modjeska Peak is the second highest peak at 5,384ft to Santiago at 5,687ft in the Santa Ana Mountain Range; it was named after Helena Modjeska a Shakespearean actress who lived in its shadow towards the end of her life.

After a few drinks, gels and laughs we were off again, only one way now…..down! our trip plan is now to travel south on the Divide to the Joplin Trail 6W03 then down into Jamison Spring past Vulture Crags onto Santiago Truck Trail and back to civilization on Modjeska Grade road. Joplin Trailhead sits off of the Main Divide tucked in the a ridge valley between Modjeska and Santiago Peaks; I almost ran right past it while talking with a friend (would have been in Mexico by now if he hadn’t of stopped me).

Joplin Trail is a single track trail covered in trees and shade, sidelined by moss and long grass and complimented by the occasional poison oak so be aware. Joplin is a 6.2 mile adventure, compatible to some of the best trails around. The trail is very runable, with sections of rocky downhill followed by smooth dirt or leave covered trail sections hiding under the canopies of the many trees throughout this run. As I run down it I feel like I’m in another world; hard to imagine that we are still so close to 7-11’s and constant hustling of the city below us.

The trail opens into a wonderful section called “Old Camp” with a fire pit and stream beside it; this was a meeting spot for hunters traveling the area many years ago, make an immediate left and continue up slightly along Joplin, before long you will find yourself at a flag pole, this is where Santiago Truck Trail takes hold and the “Louge” begins off to the left at a spot called Vulture crags, a hundred years ago California Vultures nested here in large numbers. Santiago trail then continues up to the right and runs directly into Modjeska Grade road. Once we reach the Grade road we are satisfied that this run has done well for us……Bring on the next adventure!!!!

This is a beautiful run, very challenging and satisfying for all. This is a 25+mile run so be prepared, there are no water stops and you must carry what you need with you.

San Mateo backcountry trail run

2010-01-01T22:03:00.000-08:00

Just up beyond Caspers Regional park off the Ortega Hwy there’s a Candy store……….what? there really is a Candy Store! Yummy candies are prepared from scratch in addition to the standards that we all know and love jawbreakers, sours….ect. It seems a funny place to start a physically challenging, gut wrenching 21 mile trail run but the reality is that just off to the left begins the Bear Trail; that’s where we begin….

The San Mateo Canyon Wilderness makes up the southwest corner of the Trabuco Ranger District. Rugged mountains covered with chaparral and coastal sage dominate the landscape. Many deep drainages hide a lush growth of vegetation, with oak woodlands thick in the lower elevations. Narrow canyons give way to brilliant displays of spring wildflowers. Wildlife is abundant as evidenced by 139 bird species, 37 mammal species, and 46 amphibian and reptile species.

Established in 1984, this 39,540-acre wilderness has over 60 miles of hiking trails. There are four trailheads: Bear Canyon, Morgan, Tenaja and Tenaja Falls.

I and some friends met at 7:00….ok they met at 7:00 at the Candy store and proceeded to begin without me. I try to be very calculated about my planning; I really do but once you turn off on Ortega HWY it's another 15 minutes through mountain roads (which I keep forgetting to plan for!) so.......I arrived 15 minutes late and was greeted by another friend that was supporting our run by dropping water off for us at a trailhead mid-run. "THEY JUST LEFT!, if you push it you can catch them as they ascend the Bear Trail into San Mateo" He says…So my run begins…..very quickly.

The bear Trail is a beautifully conditioned trail, kept free from mountain bike overuse it’s a great trail for hiking or running. Trees provide shade for a good percent of the trail, as you ascend the sun will then take over and greet you for another good portion. This trail can be very attractive to most but you need to be prepared, carry enough water 22oz. per hour min. There are no water stops here and the trails can lead you into many of the canyons which have only a few ways out…..all of them on foot. As we ventured out we ran through many canyons, across a few streams and scrambled up some shade covered rock trails; all of which are very beautiful and forced me to act like a standard tourist (my trail camera was very busy).

All in all it was a great run, moderately challenging and amazingly beautiful. Grab a good map, layout your hike or run, find a partner or partners and be prepared! I promise that you will come out of this one exhausted with a BIG smile on your face.

Our backyards are much larger than we think…

2009-12-30T16:11:00.000-08:00

“In 2010 the population of the City of Orange, Calif. is estimated to be 150,315, and as I stand here looking over the City I wonder how many of them know that they're only a few miles and a good pair running or hiking shoes away from experiencing something wonderfully different.”

I woke up this morning to the sound of my 18 year old leaving the house on his way to a day of working with a friend at his dads business; I marvel at this moment because it won’t last; …my wife and I sleeping with the day off and our son going to work….a rarity to enjoy while it lasts.

But ..since I’m up now...thanks son... I creep out of bed careful to not wake anyone up, mornings like this are great because everyone is good, everyone is taken care of and its now my time to run, so with a smile I gather my gear.

Today is overcast and might even sprinkle a little so I’m

wearing both compression shorts and long sleeve shirt in addition to my standard running shorts and short sleeve shirt; this should keep me warm enough without overheating and keep the rain off me initially.

Many runners make the mistake and wear to much without layering, they overheat as the run progresses……..During a local 100 mile run the rain and cold were substantial and I saw many runners that were unprepared .. running in standard shorts and short sleeve shirt, protected only by a generic rain poncho or even trash bag.

Think layers, and put some planning into any run if you feel that weather might be a factor; especially if you run unsupported at distance.

I find myself running about 1.5 miles before I touch dirt….ahhhh….lovely dirt; I’ve reached the foothills of Orange. There are some trails here that run along the hills, this is a link that will take me to the start of my Santiago Oaks run and I hit it hard, It affords me beautiful views and it’s so local that if you’re looking toward the hills you might see me waving from far off. Here you will find your choice of comfortable trail running or some challenging hill climbs (I call it the stairway) and of course that is my choice this morning.

After a short time I’m running the ridges and coming close to the connection that will bring me to Santiago Oaks.

Santiago Oaks is a hidden gem of trails and beauty, recently ravenged by wild fires it is in its recovery stages and doing quite well from where I have ran. The trail head begins after a short series of trails that are maintained by the city. Once inside the park you are met by valleys, hills, trees and beauty that will relax you and charge you at the same time, it’s your choice from here and there are many choices; so make sure you plan your route. I’m running towards Irvine Park today and have chosen the high road which will carry me along the ridge line and into the back side of Irvine Park by the Boy Scouts new Outdoor Education grounds.

After a few mountain bikers, two runners and two Horses I’ve reached my destination and now have a choice……it’s raining now……take the street back down to Chapman Grade and home…..or……turn around and hit the trail again. Of course I turn around and hit the trail once more for my return!

And for 2.3 hours of running I’ve seen two runners and two horses…….out of 150,315 people in Orange; do they even know how big their backyard is I wonder.

Chimera is a beast and beasts are Unpredictable..

2009-12-13T22:11:00.001-08:00

I woke up nervous, not scared; just nervous. I hadn't gotten to much sleep the night before but really I dont think many people do.

It was early...Very early and I arrived at BlueJay campground at 4:00am( you can do the math to find out when I got up); clouds had covered the mountain up to the start of Chimera forcing me to drive 4mph with my face pressed against the windsheild searching for signs of the road ahead of me; forboding now that we look back.

Greeted by many of my freinds..Michelle Barton, LT, dan, Maura, Steve Harvey and Anne..they were all there. I checked in and received my racing number..46!

Weather forcasts had been observed with great scrutiny and everyone was ready..or should have been for anything, forcasts had reported 5-10knot wind with 1/4 to 1/2" rain for the day. As we hudled in the dark our numbers were called for verification (Steve Harvey..the Race director and Keira are amazing in both organization and inspiration.) now we await for the start of the race!
In preparation for today Im wearing a compression long sleeve shirt layered by my coolmax running shirt, a Burlington Performance wear Jacket, head/ear covering and hat. On my feet are Brooks Cascadias and Injinji Performance Socks. In hindsight flippers might have worked...yeah...I said flippers.

I began running fairly quickly...the first 9 miles are ran on single track trail, as the rain fell I didnt want to get caught on single muddy slippery trail. I moved along fairly strong, at times maybe to strong but I knew this course and felt good.

Once I cleared the 9 mile loop I realized that this race will be a challenge, the rain was falling consistantly and everyone at this time was realizing the same thing.
I moved through the first aid station fairly quickly...greeted by Steve Harvey and volunteer freinds, it made me feel good so off I went. The main divide on a sunny day is a great run, although the beginning from Bluejay is always something that I dont look forward to.......Im not sure what it was.....the Cold, the Rain, the Wind? But I couldnt really equate this run to any in the past on the same route.... I knew about the steep inclines but didnt experience them the same way! they went quicker or passed without me realizing them even there!

As I drove on I thought it just cannot get any worse......then it did.......and did.......and did... the clouds were riding on updrafts as you ran along the trail, one side...the mountain, the other side is a steep drop off but you watched the clouds rocketing up into the sky...carried by the wind that was now gusting wildly...amazing!

I passed by Trabuco peak..the second aid station and was greeted by all of the friendly volunteers (this station later blew down....destroyed by gusts).

I ran to the top of Santiago, greeted again by tremendous voluteers, ate some chicken noodle soup, had hot chocolate and was again on my way!

I ran to Maple Springs, met by friends and my drop bag!, it was here that I was told the race might be cancelled!.....what!, strangely I knew that was right though....the weather had taken a serious turn even before I reached santiago...

I ran on past bedford peak and down santiago switchbacks to the Santiago Aid station where I was met by a small group of runners that had reached before me.......held here, the race was going on no further.....we were the longest runners, went the farthest before the end, but we were all content, I think everyone knew. So at 38 miles my adventure ended for now..I do however think that If we were given the chance most would have taken off again. In the end we waited for shuttles to pick us all up and bring us back........Thank you to everyone...directors and volunteers alike. The final report for weather.....50 to 60 knott winds 9" of rain.....hardly the 5-10Knott 1/4" prediction; but afterall ..... it is the Chimera! Bring it on next year! (check out the Maple Springs drop bag aid station that night) Demolished.

Chimera 100 mile trail run

2009-12-09T15:53:00.000-08:00

It's been decided and I'm pumped. I'll be running the 100 mile course at Chimera! Rain, Cold, Mud and darkness wahooo!!

I'll work on recording every step of the way and I'm gonna take all of you with me...so stay tuned!
Just a few more days!

Chimera 100K / 100M Trail Run

2009-12-08T10:20:00.000-08:00

Tuesday 8,2009
Like so many of my trail running friends I've got the bug......no no dont worry not the BUG BUG; but the distance bug. The allure of challenging yourself and pushing your abilities to the limits has taken me....its all good...really.

I've recently signed up for a local race here in the Santa Ana Mountains the "Chimera 100", although I'm pretty pumped up and race ready the weather here has turned for the worse. With temperatures falling and a light covering of snow in the local mountains its now going to be a very challenging 100k run...(like it wasn't going to be already).

Whats strange is my desire to run the 100 mile version .. What the ?!#$!$...sorry but ever since I joined the TrailHeadz the distance enthusiasm has worn off on me. These guys and gals are a true inspiration and I'm glad that I have felt that same enthusiasm.......Bring it on... :)

I'm running today as a taper only an easy 6-7miles, a run possibly tomorrow and then rest, rest and run!!! Cant wait.

Brooks Cascadia Trail Shoes

2009-12-07T09:39:00.000-08:00

Company Description:

Cushioned for running on tough trails, Brooks Cascadia 4 shoes feature adaptable posts to adjust to terrain irregularities and provide stability.

Durable synthetic leather/polyester mesh uppers with microfiber overlays are lightweight and airy for quick drying and quick draining

Polyester linings absorb and disperse moisture for enhanced comfort; removable insoles add cushioning

BioMoGo midsoles feature a special polymer compound formulated to resist compression and rebound more quickly than standard EVA Midsoles also feature a natural additive that encourages faster breakdown in landfills

Medial and lateral Pivot Posting system helps outsoles adapt, offering stability on uneven surfaces
Silicone-based HydroFlow® system at heels and forefeet features fluid-filled center chambers that damp shock

Forefoot Ballistic Rock Shields protect feet from sharp rocks

HPR Green outsoles are made of high-density carbon rubber for outstanding durability and feature aggressive lugs for maximum trail bite

Performance Review:

I've waited awhile for this review; these shoes now are not new to me....after a good 400 miles of every imagineable running surface I'm ready to talk! and its all good.

The Brooks Cascadias were choosen after much consideration....they were not my first choice afterall. I was looking for something more mountainous, more adventurous....ok more stylish. But I've also been a true fan of comfort..... odd being that I choose Ultra running isnt it.....

These shoes are comfort out of the gate, they ride lower on the ankle and together with cusioning and the gentle all round foot support are one of the most comfortable shoes that I own. I've now ran the moutains of California in addition to the Grand Canyon in these shoes and at no time have I ever felt like I was held back in anyway. The designed tread is not intrusive, it allows for a very nice ride while being supprisingly tough on those slippery areas.

These shoes provide plenty of ventilation and the toe box has room without sacraficing stability. I've read a few reviews lately that mention these allowing dust into the toe box, its true, but should also be expected. Ventilation is important; if you dont want dust.....run on asphalt...

I run marathons with Saucony and Asics but for now I will run Ultra Trails with the Brooks Cascadia.

Score 9 of 10

INJINJI Socks

2009-12-06T21:41:00.000-08:00

Company Description: Proven in the simplest and most extreme conditions, the Performance series tetratsok is becoming the choice interface for amateur and professional athletes alike. Engineered with AIS: technology and constructed with a wicking fiber made of CoolMax® and a resistant outer shell of durable nylon, the Performance tetratsok protects, prevents and out performs any ordinary tube closed sport sock.

Performance Review: While walking through REI recently I saw these and remembering conversations while running concerning socks I was compelled to purchase these for an upcoming 100k long training run.

It was 5:00am when I first slipped into my first pair of Injinji's; they actually felt pretty good...strange at first to be honest but pretty comforting really, OK..ready to hit the trails!

During the run these socks are very comfortable; their design is easy on the toes and really allow for some pretty serious toe comfort. I've had issued with long runs and toe punishment in the past so I was apprehensive, these socks really suprised me and actually gave me a more secure confident feeling....I guess I felt more buckled down..each toe ready to go!

After 15 miles of hard running, dirt, hills and all I was very happy and now probably a convert....what am I gonna do with all those old "regular" socks now......

Score: 9 of 10 (not sure if anything will make 10) I would recommend these to anyone.

A 27.75 Mile FUN run!!! What!

2009-12-02T14:27:00.000-08:00

Sat.Nov 28,2009

Alarm.....BZZZZZZZZ.....Damn alarm!, I read once that a person should ( In one continuous motion) get out of bed and smile. Just smile. You can think whatever you want but I've done this for a long time and I believe it works. Start your day off with a smile, dont hesitate to get out of bed....take the initiative do it and smile!......... screw that!!, I thought, as I instinctively got out of bed and smiled....Damn! did it again. Ha Ha Ha

At 4:45 on a Saturday most of you are soundly chewing on logs, dreaming of things that your going to forget about the moment you wake up; I'm still jealous, and yeah..still smiling. I'm running today and it should be a good one.

The group has decided that we'll tackle a route used in a local race here, the Twin Peaks Ultra run, in combination with the race preparation for Chimera 100k I thought ... why not!

Indian Truck Trail 6.5 miles of continuous uphill, Main Divide to Holy Jim amazing downhill, then back up Horsetheif trail...Super sucky 1.5 miles, back on the Main Divide to Indian Truck and down again to the cars. (with alot of running in-between).

The run was amazing!, it had just rained that morning...mist and fog were in the air which made it almost mystical in some of the lower valley portions. As you increased in altitude the clouds took over and you were caught gazing at the landscape, full of color...what a view. As you run along these single tracks you are taking in both soft and vibrant greens, shrowded in patches of fog. Suddenly your eyes are struck with the loud vibrant colors of a few of the native trees displaying bright yellow and orange leaves, just amazing.

We had water hidden in a few areas to refill our bottles which made it much easier to plan, thanks to Keira who is always beyond prepared.

By the end we had run 27.75 miles and felt tired..but great!, good freinds, good run......nothing more needed.

Santa Monica 50K Trail run

2009-11-24T14:08:00.000-08:00

Sunday Nov22, 2009

This was familiar ground for me having run the Xterra Pt.Mugu trail run this year. The PCT group uses almost the same trail as Xterra although the Xterra runs are smaller and have more aid stations with less separation. I would say that they are more suited for the average or casual runner. On the other hand, the PCT group hosts more ultras and they are quite abit more layed back, a great group.

There were many TrailHeadz running today, I didnt realize how many until I later reviewed our website and spoke with a few of them- note to self - recognize recognize recognize.......

It was a beautiful day to run...even after just returning from Nashville TN; jet lag sucks but I managed........ Treadmills at the hotel suck even more but I ran 20+ while working which was a good prep for this run.

This run consists of a few good hill grades mainly in the beginning with a good one in the middle to reach the halfway point which tend to create the initial seperation of runners, its a great run though creek beds, hill sides, and wheat grass culminating at a single track 2.5 mile climb and downhill to the finish. All in all it is definitely a race to put on next years calendar. 30+miles and feeling great with no cramps or major issues, jet lag only.... dang work trips :)

Eco-Catalina Marathon

2009-11-15T13:42:00.000-08:00

I havent been to Catalina in .. I dont know how long; A high school trip many many years ago. So I though..why not, why not run a marathon on Catalina Island. I mean, its a beautiful place right? an old sailer port, small and unique stores and bars; it should be a great place to bring my wife....I'll run and she can enjoy the town. Perfect.

We left on Friday after securing a hotel room and Catalina Express tickets (very expensive) and arrived on the island around 6:00pm which gave us plenty of time to check the night life out after picking up my race number and packets. Catalina, the town of golf carts and cars that look like they come from the land of little people. The smaller the better! We walked from the hotel and enjoyed the ocean breeze and the quiet, it almost feels like your back in time, its very relaxing and almost welcoming. After a big spaghetti dinner we headed back to the hotel where I prepared for the marathon the next day.

Eco-Catalina; its the third running of this marathon and one of a few races held here. The marathon like the town is pretty relaxed; I found the start line and waited for everyone to show up for the race.....I only got there 15 minutes prior to start - no one was there. HA HA.

Some runners where still going to show up by boat that morning and the race had coordinated this with the captains of the shuttles to make sure that they can make race start. Once the boat came in and the runners had a chance to get their numbers...we were ready to go!

Buffalos, eagles, ocean, terrain, beauty.......all these words are used to describe this run....this long long run; but for some reason all I saw were hills, many, many hills. Its a very tough marathon, I found out that catalina is pretty much all hill. It was a great run, an amazing place to push yourself but definitelly not the place to get a personal best in running. I did see a buffalo and many pieces of evidence that buffalo do live here!

After running though the finish line I knew I had run a tough race, but I was satisfied with the way I felt and ran....great marathon!, I showered quickly and we got some lunch and had plenty of time to walk through the town and enjoy the rest of the day before the boat headed out to bring us back to Dana Point.

I had prepared well but there still is much room for improvement so Im challenging myself to run it again, its a great run, a great place and to bring my wife made it even better!

26 miles 4:57.........remember this is not your standard marathon! 8th place in age group 38 overall. Stairs, Stairs, Stairs (training for next time) :)

To the Top of Santiago Peak....

2009-11-01T20:05:00.000-08:00

This morning was my final warm-up run for my upcoming Eco-Catalina run in two weeks; so I pulled myself out of bed and met some TrailHead Friends at the BlueJay campgrounds right off Ortega highway.

The Main divide trail is really only a fireroad fairly exposed and rocky, there had been water dropped about 5 miles into the run. If time is available and given the opportunity we hide arrowhead bottles off the trail and marked with ribbons, I'm carrying a 100oz. Hydration pack along with a hand held 22oz. bottle so I'll be ok; I barely drink water water anyway........its something I'm working on.

Today was perfect, clear skys with a slight breeze....you can see Catalina and beyond! As we began to run it was cool but within minutes we were shedding extra clothing. I continued on to run to Santiago peak which is a 12mile run from Bluejay (One Way). All total 24 miles and as I ran back to the car I was feeling pretty good. From here its
a taper until Catalina... bring it on.

El Morro - A Running Sneak Away

2009-10-30T14:01:00.000-07:00

I've had a stressfull week and my tensions are high, I can feel it and it sucks. Luckily I've found an avenue to relieve this buildup and save my dog from being kicked or my kids from being yelled at; its obviously running. Personally I dont know what I'd do without it, it soothes me, collects my thoughts and frees my mind. So this week needed to be purged and I was going to do it the only way I know how.

I left work early today; cashed in on some vacation and found myself highstrung in anticipation to hit the trails at El Morro canyon. El Morro is a mountainous region full of sage and lower vegitation that over looks Crystal Cove and the Pacific Ocean, it spans from Newport Coast to and through Laguna Wilderness Area so the running is plentiful if you like hills and single track trails....perfect.

I arrived about 2:30pm and quickly changed into my running gear; carrying only a single 22oz. bottle I've planned my route to hit three seperate watering stations, one in laguna Wilderness Area, one at the El Morro ranger station and then back here again at the Ridge Park facilities. I've also decided to carry Gels with me; I need to learn to like the horrible tasting stuff, gag..we'll see.

The air is cool and a slight breeze plays with the shrubs as I run through the thin single track trail, its a well used trail by mountain bikers, very defined but yet very secluded. I push on to Laguna Wilderness Area which lends the beginning of my run to mainly downhill trails and easy running; I wave as I pass by the head ranger in Laguna Wilderness; I was introduced to her by Bill Ramsey who it seems runs often here. I've gone through 10oz. of gel water mix, good; no gag reflex yet and I'm feeling good when I get to the water spicket. I fill up, turn around and begin back up the trail toward where I began, up hill is not as easy as down......amazing huh.

When I reach the top of Ridge road where I started i've gone about 9 miles and have another chance to fill my water bottle which I promptly do. I choose to go with just fresh clean water..no gel, getting tired of it already........hmmm. I continued down No Name Ridge to the ranger Station at El

Morro and saw deer staring back at me....I thought one was going to charge me the way she was looking at me, must have her young near by; so I took a quick pic and continued on.

I filled up again here and continued back up the south end of El Morro to begin to complete a full loop around the canyon, up the canyon trails to the ridge and along past El Morro Campground areas and to the top to Old Ridge Road which is a single track to lead me to my starting point once more. Its getting darker now as I reach the car..... 17.5 miles total and feeling good, glad to sneak away, to steal some time and to release my tension to the willing canyon below me.

Fully Recovered and none the wiser....

2009-10-27T22:57:00.000-07:00

Feeling very good, muscles aren't sore and attitute isn't adjusted so I'm good. I've got a few runs coming up that are in my sights, first is the eco-marathon on Catalina Island; second is the Santa Monica Mtns 50k shortly thereafter.........i'm excited, bring em on.

A few members of my running club are preparing themselves for the Chimera 100k/100mile ultra run in our local moutains; dont worry .. not in my sights, but there will be a few prep runs that include a night run through the Cleveland National Forest! I'm running this run!, its gonna be pretty hairy, pretty scary, but pretty cool!

If you've never run with only a headlamp leading the way through forestry then you are probably better off... ha ha ha ... very cool though, and hey its only a 9 mile run in the dark.

Well gotta go....... lots of running to do in the mean time! 6 miles today at Peters Canyon and up early tomorrow for a longer early morning run there also....... 15miles (yawn)
P.S. Gotta take more pics :)

Grand Canyon - beauty and the beast R2R2R

2009-10-20T21:36:00.000-07:00

My Rim to Rim to Rim adventure run through the Grand Canyon:

What inspires an individual, what drives them to find their limit; their breaking point. Personally I'm still not sure that I've found mine; but pretty close.

It's Saturday mid afternoon in October, the weather is wonderful here in the Grand Canyon. Seasonally its turning cooler and you can sense it in the air, it’s a dry cool air, clean and invigorating. We had just arrived here from Orange County, CA, 500 or so miles away and had just checked into the lodge. The local hotel had a sports bar and it was decided that a beer and college football would take our minds off the upcoming run. Upon arriving at the bar, due to lack of hotel participation, we opened it ourselves....hmm must be a slow day in October, seemed unusual. It was decided that a good meal of pasta would be our carbo load dinner after the USC game and promptly hustled to the nearby local Italian restaurant. After a traditional spaghetti and meatballs meal we headed off to get some sleep with full stomachs and a lot on our minds.

One of the best ways to get good sleep before an important event is to set multiple alarms, this way you don’t have to worry about starting the day missing your wake up call.
And so it began…….bzzz! Somehow the sound of the alarm doesn’t startle me; I might have been ready for it and was up immediately; at 5:00am.

We were out the door at 5:25am and headed for the Canyon. At 5:25am it’s still dark as we drive, hitting the entrance to the canyon before 6:00; no one is working the booths so there is no entrance fee to the park…..the day is turning out great so far. Our goal is to arrive in Bright Angel resort and take the shuttle to South Kaibab Trailhead, as we arrive and park we are surrounded by deer, they have taken advantage of the quiet morning to visit the resort themselves. Within minutes the shuttle arrives and we are off to the trailhead. The shuttle is filled with hikers, some fresh, some seasoned and they are all surprised and wish us well when they hear about our plans to run the R2R2R.

As we depart from the shuttle I have a warming sense of excitement as we meet more members of our group. There’s plenty of experience here, almost overwhelming as we take pictures to launch us on our way; its 6:30 now and the sun has risen; presented us with our first real look at the Canyons below.

I’m not going to try to find a word for it, none will really do, it just takes your breath away; and I am blessed to be able to run through it.
As we begin down the trail and are again wished well by a group of hikers, themselves starting the journey down the canyon. I am overwhelmed by the visual beauty, everything from the silhouettes of landscape to the color of the soil and richness in textures, it makes my running seem effortless and before I know it we have almost covered half the distance down the Kaibab Trail. The trail is riddled with water breaks which staircase continually down the trail, its difficult at times to settle in a comfortable pace but we don’t care; its amazing out here.
We meet up with two more of our group, they started a few minutes before us and after a brief greeting with continue on with them.

The Black Bridge is just below us and its now defined as we run closer, down and through the stone tunnel which opens to entrance of the suspension bridge at the bottom of the canyon. As we begin to exit the bridge, Jennifer, one of the two runners that we caught up to slips and slides partially down an embankment. Luckily she’s not in danger but it’s an immediate reminder of where we really are; it sharpens me. We continue on to our first stop, the main campground called Phantom Ranch, this is our water stop and from here we will continue up to the North Rim. We fill our bottles eat some calories and start out; we’ve run about 7miles.

At 14.5 miles we’ve run through box canyon and needled through shear wall canyons which spill out to a broader opening and Cottonwood camping grounds….our next source of piped in water. Cottonwood is a fairly primitive campground with a ranger hut and campsites for backpackers wanting to tent camp, it’s a little more rugged and the terrain is rougher, but like all campgrounds down here it would still be an amazing experience. We fill our bottles and start out once more.

16 miles – we find ourselves at the Bruce Aikens House, he’s a well known canyon painter and Ranger for the park system. As we fill our bottles for a moment I wonder just who could live out here for so long. I’m feeling a little tired now but I’m still very driven and continue with a smile toward the North Rim; there is only one more water stop left and we don’t plan on turning down Roaring Springs to get it, at this time of year the water is shut off on the North Rim on Oct 15; just missed it. So we prepare to be without water for the remainder of this Northward run, at least until we return back to the Aikens house in Roaring Springs Canyon.

We are alone now, at this point the remainder of our group have reached their planned limits and have turned around to trek back up the South Rim; so we continue on. The run toward the north is now gaining texture once again as the canyons begin to close in forcing the trail to stream along the cliff sides and rise upward toward the rim. We pass by Conservation Corps teens working the trail a few miles below the rim; I’m impressed by the work they put in; it’s a long hike up after working, trust me I know now. The Trail to the north is no much different than the south side, they have also installed water breaks here, we are fatigued and drive on toward the top.
21.5 miles, half way…

The run back down was exhilarating and its downhill all the way to Aikens, Cottonwood then Phantom Ranch Campground. We stopped and talked with Aikens son who is a Park Ranger also, after some interesting conversation we filled our bottles, soaked our hats and hit the trail once more toward the lower campgrounds.

31 miles; we’ve reached Phantom Ranch at dusk. There are a few of our group resting and eating here. A runner that I briefly met on the way up had fell ill with sinus issues and now had a fever. Its sobering when you are on the bottom of a deep valley with minimal ways to get out. Though the restaurant wasn’t open we were able to get him some ice and a lemonade along with a caffeine pill which seemed to help and get him on his feet; and so we were off again after filling our bottles and turning on our headlamps.

The darkness had arrived and our headlamps were now the only things allowing us to get out. Our footsteps, the pitch blackness split by only our headlamp beam and the drive to complete this adventure pushed us all to our limits. I had recently had some problems with water intake and knew my calories weren’t sufficient but like the sign says “Going down you have a choice, to go up….you don’t have a choice.” Bright angel bridge and the three water stops were all that was left of this adventure and I fought to reach every one of them, as the air got cooler with altitude so seemed the water and I indulged by soaking my head and cooling my neck and arms at every water stop; if nothing else it woke me up.

I was depleted with no calorie intake, I had burnt though all reserves and after a few miles I was reserved to 15 minutes of run/hiking followed by 5 minutes of laying flat in the cool sand; searching for energy.
Gazing out into a star filled sky I could have just stayed there; I love the outdoors and this was just amazing, but completing this run was the only thing on my mind; aside from a shower and cold Dr.Pepper.

At 10:50 we arrived in darkness, the cool rim greeted us with a breeze that seemed to flow through my whole body and releasing me from the struggles that I had just gone through, I was excited again, happy, proud but exhausted. Simply Amazing. I’ve never had a Dr.Pepper that tasted so good.

To view all my Grand Canyon Pics go to my Snapfish acct.

Grand Canyon - Picture Album

View a quick video

Lets Catch Up.....5 days till GC

2009-10-12T16:16:00.000-07:00

Logged over 55 miles this week which is ok, the key being that they were mostly mountainous miles, dirt, climbs and downhills.

I hooked up with Mike Ramsey once more and ran 14m through El Morro/Laguna Canyon trails... it was my first time coming into El Morro from the Laguna Canyon side, pretty cool.

I've been mentally going over notes, physically writing them down and continually reading materials all pertaining to the Grand Canyon R2R2R run. It can get a little overwhelming if you continually wrap your mind around this run; so... once my shopping list is complete I'm going to forget about it............uh huh..stay tuned.

I did find a nice Camelbak hydration back at our local Big 5 store, its called the Blowfish because it expands nicely; many compartments will be welcomed for this run. I was proud of myself because when I saw it I noticed that it didnt have a mouthpeice attached, must've got lost somewhere. initially I left it last week; but came back hoping it was still there, IT was! using my shopping skills (not) it called the manager over and discussed my dilema, my desire for this poor pack but my concern with never being able to find a replacement mouthpiece. 89.00 pack reduced to 32.50 DEAL! a quick trip to our local mountain bike store and purchase of a 5.00 replacement mouthpiece and Done! kinda proud of myself.......you should be too!... :)

Anyway, I'm loading it with essentials, 250 calories per hour is my target in addition to suppliments and just plain old pacing and enjoyment, mixed in with a little pain and torchure...cant wait!!!!! 5 DAYS!!!!

Grand Canyon Introduction 20 days to go..

2009-09-28T22:33:00.001-07:00

There are 20 days left before I plan on leaving to the Grand Canyon for a R2R2R run with our Trail Headz group. There are about 30+ people going; all running in a variety of distances so I think It'll be pretty exciting and challenging.
This run will be 45 miles give or take and it will begin on the South rim..its gonna be a gut check and I'm up for it.

So....I will ramp up my training, my hills and my........will power..... and take you for a ride with me! Hang-On! :) we start in the morning! early!

Point Mugu - XTERRA 18k -

2009-09-28T16:47:00.000-07:00

Sunday, 27th 2009

No Ipods or MP3 Players! What!! dont they know thats an extention of my head while running. How is a person able to get up those hills and maintain without the sounds of head slamming rock bouncing between your ears!

Fine....Its left in the car....

I arrived at 5:30am to find that I was the first to get there!, my choice of prime PCH parking hurray! That was good because by 7:00 there was a line as far as you could see down PCH and even with a shuttle; it would suck to be them!

I was pumped today, I felt good, it was early and cool and I had drank plenty of water to prepare for this run.... I was ready! Down a protein bar early and take in some liquids... I had the time so I tried to prepare; wait! this is only an 18k run 11miles...cha! no problem.

The race started on time 8:30am and off we go racing down the drive toward the first of the single tracks...then bottleneck! I need to start faster just to avoid the pain of shuffling up the first hill at break neck speeds of mach nothing!! it took some time but we finally managed to dance around many of the slower runners and began a much stronger pace.

The hills are not that bad here, from overhearing others I had anticipated much worse, so I continued to run fairly strong; always holding back alittle in preparation for a tough hill that never came!!!!! The final couple miles are all downhill and the trail lends itelf to a very fast pace...not much bouldering at all; in fact very smooth.

Over all a very fun run although I wish that I had reached the first uphills without interference; oh well, next time.. Stronger, faster.

Ok now Im caught up...Oh...Im racing Tomorrow so Goodnight!

2009-09-26T23:24:00.000-07:00

Really quick!....Malibu...Point Mugu 18k run tomorrow....gotta get up way to early so goodnight.
And when we talk again; I'll tell you about it... and I might also tell you about my preparations for a Grand Canyon run.... South rim to North rim and back to South rim again.... 40 miles!!!

Good Night!

Back to Los Pinos to find a friend in need.

2009-09-26T22:31:00.000-07:00

I've been missing for a few days, a few runs, a few blogs but remember....this is gonna take time. I'm not a diary person and its not easy to express myself sometimes, things just take time.

Wednesday was a troubling day for me.....Im tired now and look forward to hitting the bed and doing some recovery..mentally and physically. I need to explain, so we'll go back a day... hang-on.

....ZIP!....

Its Tuesday now and I've just come back from Peters canyon, a 7 mile quickie up along the ridge along with tackling the monster hill ( which I didnt stop running up ). The Sunday prior I had just joined a new group of Trail runners called Trail Headz, I'm excited about this group because they seem to be just as crazy as I am when it comes to running...... anyway back to the story..

I went online to the TZ site and was shocked to find that one of the member Ultra Runners was missing after running the same Los Pinos run that I had just completed!, after some contact we had a conference call to see what we could do as a group. We determined that because dogs were going to be involved that we didnt want to get in the way, the search was set for early morning Wed.

The next day I packed my running gear up and was ready for anything, it was good because the dogs didnt show! and we were all motivated to help find her! I left work immediatelly!... so then we collectively forced ourselves on the search and rescue force, our experience and capability are impossible to ignore right!.. well to keep this short we hiked/ran those trails in groups looking for her, calling for her.

Thankfully we found her, actually the helicopter found her on a ledge and she was alive! thank god! Shes in the hospital right now and recovering, I couldnt be happier and I'd do it in a second for any other runner out there now; because after experiencing that...I know theyd do it for me.Then I went to bed! :)

San Juan / Los Pinos Enlightenment

2009-09-15T13:17:00.000-07:00

Enlightenment, in the dictionary is defined as: a spiritual or intellectual understanding.
Suffer, in the dictionary is .....................well, I think we know where this is going.

As a group we had decided..through some deliberation to plan this run.... all total about 23 miles of undulating hills exposed and unexposed to the California sun; but a challenge none the less. The San Juan Trail to BlueJay Campground a scenic trail switchbacking and weaving through the mountains off of Ortega HWY, backed up by a ridgeline trail cutting through the main divide and Los Pinos peak then coursing along the ridges and returning to finish a complete loop.

After meeting everyone at 5:30am at local shopping center I realized that this might have been a good idea, there were quite a few runners both from OCTR and from the Trail Headz; in addition we had pulled along Bill Ramsey and a few new additions to the group.

Once we all arrived at the San Juan Trail head and were preparing in the dark for our run we were met by Michelle Barton and a friend who were also preparing to run to BlueJay campground, the more the.......well you know. So off we go, water pack in place 60oz.of gatorade orange with some agent orange mixed in, gators on and some gu for the road; in addition to salt tabs - never know. I've come to the conclusion that you need a chemistry degree to run distance - Ultra distance at least..I'm still figuring it all out.

As we begin our ascent we are led by a few runners that I'm unfamiliar with, their pace is consistant but slow....its a nice hiking pace but I can feel that my muscles want to pump a little more so I wait to see what happens. I dont wait long as I hear someone start coming up from behind; politely excusing herself as she passes up the switchbacks. Michelle Barton and partner are chatting away and pass us to continue up the hill. I take the opportunity to increase my pace and begin running behind them, following them up San Juan and leaving the pack behind in the distance.

A sip from my water, not bad almost tastes carbonated which is kinda refreshing....although I dont think its carbonated...hmm. I continue following Michelle up the beautiful trail, stopping to take photographs as I go...its amazingly beautiful on this trail, cascading rocks and tree formations, the scenery changes dramatically as you run and the clouds coming through the canyons are below us now like a cotton blanket; peaceful. I find michelle taking a small break at the top of a ridge and introduce myself to both her and her partner and after a few moments we begin again, but now together. Her partner jokes that if you learn to run with michelle you'll find yourself placing in your upcoming races, I dont doubt it, Ive heard of michelle Barton and its impressive; although I believe she can kick into gear and leave us both panting and alone;, I'm happy to just be running with her.

We have been running for some time, at times I look back across the hills to locate anyone coming up behind but its silent......and once we reach Blue Jay campground we have come to the mid point of michelles run, here they will turn back and return down San Juan as I continue forward towards Los Pinos....but I'm gonna wait awhile for a partner to run with first.

I begin to backtrack along the campsites, Oh! remember to drink, I've been drinking as much as I can remember but its not easy, Bill Ramsey - as experience as he is, has an alarm on his watch to constantly remind him to drink at 10 minute intervals, to slowly hydrate over the course of time. I'm going to work on it. After a period of time I find some of our runners at a water station in Blue Jay, at this point we will split, sending some back down and others will continue along Los Pinos.

At this point there are 4 of us, Bill Ramsey, Dan and Maura from OCTR and myself of course, Unexpectedly we run into Anne and Steve Harvey, Old Goats RD's and continue to Los Pinos Peak as a group. Great group of people!

Los Pinos is one of those trails that looks enticing, its an unbelievably beautiful trail that allows you a veiw of all of Orange, Carona, Riverside ..... just amazing, but its a trail runner eater. The trail is exposed and rocky, both uphill and downhill affords you no rest. The hills continue on like a nightmare, but its so beautiful, its like a drug...it hurts you and pleases you at the same time!

After 23 miles I reach the lazy W campground then the cars beyond that, what a sight to see!! I have a coke screaming my name in a cold cooler and its making me crazy as I stumble to the car.....air conditioning, being able to just stop and know that there are no more hidden peaks to run up......priceless! But a great run with great people, I will return again. Conditioning yourself with a run like this will prepare you for just about anything........just about. At the end ive still got 16oz left and orange gatorade doesnt taste good anymore... maybe Ill bring both on my next long run..I dunno. I need to drink more water, felt dizzy at one point, so I'll work on bringing candy to suck on also.

Great run, but prepare yourself, its not gonna treat you nice!

40 and Counting..tick...tick...tick

2009-09-10T12:53:00.000-07:00

I've been reading alot lately, dont know why exactly....I've always been pretty stuborn when it comes to advice about running but lately I've been reading......

At 40+ years they .... (they being whoever might have been writing the article at the time.....yes "they" might be over 40; not sure...) They.. suggest that you begin to taper your workouts to allow for ample time in recovery a 1 to 1 ratio of workouts to days off (recovery), then a 1 to 2, then a 1 to 3 until your pretty much just sitting on the couch wiggling your toes in fear of hurting yourself.... or so it seems..

now remember.... on top of all this we also must consider suppliments and shoes, shoes... should all of these elements change as we age graciously; yes, why not. At least...according to whomever you might be reading at the time. Crazy this running thing... and I though all I had to do was put on some shoes, face a direction and move!

As I progress in blogging I've decided to add some educational information and links to allow me to go beyond just gabbing to myself.....who knows....... someone might accidentally stumble on to it.. :)

I'm going running today, small run warm up to Saturday 23mile San Jan/Los Pinos loop with OCTR, Bill Ramsey and gang, should be interesting.

a few friends, a trail and a view

2009-09-08T11:19:00.000-07:00

Trip: Maple Springs/Main Divide/ Silverado Motorway Loop

Distance: 16.3 Miles

Let me start by saying, " I dont like getting up earlier than 5am on a weekend" I just dont...Yes even to run. Call it getting old, a late nighter .. I just cant seem to wake up as earlier and bright eyed as I used to. The single motivator for Saturday morning was a long run on a beautiful dirt trail, so I rolled out of bed threw on my clothes before I could look back and was out the door!

I find it much easier if I throw my gear in my car the night before, no thinking involved....If I can just get to the car with my clothes on I'm good.

The temp was cool, not cold, just perfect and when I reached the trailhead almost everyone was there already.....all smiles......ARRRG! We carpooled to the end of Silverado just beyond the circle turn around, the gate was open so we drove up the the entry/exit of Motorway loop. I had packed my camelback with 64oz of gatorade this time with the hopes of drinking as much as I could. I have a habit of not drinking very much being that the average should be about 17-20oz. per hour... I drink about 8-10oz per hour.

We begin, we being fellow members of OCTR; all smiles still........we'll see about that.

The run begins with the first 7 miles mostly uphill, maintained on both asphalt and then Fireroad following the draw of Silverado canyon and winding its way up in long extended switchbacks, beautiful back country; green and peacefull. Once the road becomes dirt it then gets more inspiring and you can feel yourself drive a little harder, pushing to see whats around the next bend, to peer into the distance overlooking the valleys below; just amazing.

A drink here...a drink there, gotta remember to keep drinking this time! I reach the first summit and take in the views, tarantula hawks buzz around seeking out prey; I'd seen a big tarantula at morro a week before....they'd love him; although not a good day for a tarantula.

After a few moment I begin running along the Firetrail that follows the ridges of the mountains, around every turn I get a view of the valley, reminding me just how high I've come.

As I make my way along the ridge I'm now more than half way and can see my final downhill; the motorway. The motorway is a steep downhill consisting of many switchbacks; its about 3 miles of them! I continue my run through dusty dirt roads and along beautiful ridges and valleys.

after about 13 miles I'm at the intersection of Main divide and the motorway; I'm greeted by a lone mountain biker who's sitting in the shade eating; he wishes me well, I take it all in as I turn the bend and begin the single track that will take me to the Motorway downhill.

At an opening to motorway I wait for the others and take a break, preparing for the final descent; Oh yeah drink, drink, drink......... as some of us are discussing barefoot running the other members round the corner and we take a nice dirty picture......awwww!

The descent down Motorway is grinding, it abuses your legs and your mind as you are concentrating, focusing more than usual on the ground beneath you as well as the ground that WILL be beneath you.... Overconfidence along with fatigue have taken many quality runners to the ground near the end of this run... you just never underestimate running downhill for any period of time. After an eternity I reach the trailhead and see the car waiting for me....I've been dreaming about that DR.Pepper that I've got in my cooler; I can almost taste it now!

At the car I await the others and quickly inventory what I have left, a hammer gel, and tons of gatorade! what!..... 32oz. left of 64oz. thats only 8-10oz an hour still; but I feel good so that must mean something. I've taken my suppliments, I've taken a gel and eaten sharkies on my run so overall I feel really good......next time I'll drink more, next time.

Overall the run was amazing, the views are spectactular and the company was perfect; a great day to be out in the wild.

To run on solid ground

2009-09-02T09:20:00.000-07:00

After work yesterday I had one of those urges; yeah, the kind that makes your feet bounce around at your desk - no, restrooms were not involved. Running was on my mind and I knew that I had my gear stored in my car today, ready for anything I thought.

I promptly left early 3:00 is early for me although for some reason I got in early today.... almost as if I know what I was going to do. My plan was to hit Peters Canyon this afternoon, temps were about 85 degrees and the smoke from the Los Angeles area fires really hadnt affected us due to wind direction.

Once I arrived I was pumped; at least 10 today, I'll decide about the degree of hills that will be tacked but I knew I wanted to get mileage. What!, I rumaged through my gear again...How!, Damn....... I left my essential clothes in the dryer this morning; go figure.

I was still determined to run but it looked like my dirt running was done for today so I blasted home; 15 minutes later I arrived and darted in to get dressed. I was dressed and out in about 5 minutes and hit the road from my house. I'm experimenting by listening to my Mp3 player....a digital book this time, interesting effect, if its an interesting book of course. the roads are hard, Im used to the soft impact of dirt, the roads are smooth and consistent, Im used to the bumps and changes of the trail. Ive almost forgotten how dramatically different they are. 8 miles in now, Ive been running the river trail, a local river trail that runs through a park called Hart Park and beyond; back onto sidewalks and through driveways along the City shopping mall. Running strong past females and cars waiting for lights, tying to impress everyone with my smooth strong stride ha ha ha.... back into society and impression first. The trail is unique, it is usually just you, no one to impress, everything to take in........ running through the city makes me miss it.

Back towards home 11 miles even and done. My feet feel pounded more that they have on trails, my old injuries remind me distantly with small aches.. probably from the consistant running surfaces; no changes to shift muscle focus while running I guess. The trails have really taken me, I run stronger now due to the trails and have a greater appreciation for the love of running when Im on them........... solid ground for soft trails; a trade I'd make anyday!

El Morro to Laguna Bright and Early......

2009-08-30T17:25:00.000-07:00

Up at 4:30 in the morning, sleepy eyed I roll off the bed. Got a sheduled appt with some friends from the OC Trailrunners; early risers........hmm, so much nice sleep wasted! My intent is to get to the trail head early, run about 6 miles and meet them; then run about 11. The intent was there, just not me! I arrive at 5:55am, motivated, eyes gleaming, body ready to run..............ok......... tired, groggy and in need of coffee!! But I was there and they were there so there was not turning back.

They were bright and shiny on the otherhand, making in much easier to get into gear. Brooks Cascadias ready, gators on and off we go.....

I can feel the temp warming, much warmer that it should be at 6:00am but really not to bad. We run the ridge from the Ridge Park trail head along the spine and off toward Laguna. My stride is strong without any indications from my previous roving aches and injuries; all is well. My weak points are hill and my intent is to hit them hard today so I'm content with the relaxed pace, as we reach Laguna we decendto into the Valley from the Fire road......welcomed by a steeeep downhill which runs all the way to the highway.... at the road I take a drink, take a breath and turn around ... game face on, hill time. I pace myself and with fairly controlled breathing and stride I manage to run the length through soft sand and steep incline all the way to the top of the ridge......satisfied.

El Morro is beautiful in the morning, looking over Laguna and the hillsides......amazing! We run back along a singletrack and down to the lower valleys of the canyon, confronted a large tarantula; very cool, havent seen many lately......back up and back along another singletrack to the trailhead on top of the range of hills.......11.45 miles today and happy I woke up!!!

a new beginning..

2009-08-29T01:41:00.000-07:00

For many...many...many years I've been running; most my life in fact. In all that time you'd think that I'd have learned just about everything there is to know about this thing called running.

I have recently come off a pretty bad hip flexor injury, months of physical therapy...the appointments, the x-rays, the verbal punishment for not listening and running anyway. You learn alot from your stumbles, your fall from the heights of running confidence; at least I did.

Coming of an 18 mile trail run, gliding down some switchbacks It happened, but I didnt feel it, my body had come to a crossroads and I didnt even know it..... a small twinge, nothing to be worried about I thought; so I ran. The days of the week blurred after that.. I was pushing for an upcoming race...ok a marathon, for me at the time, it wasnt a race; more of an obligation. I've been running this run now for some time 7 at my last count and was looking forward to a PR time with my training recently. So on I pushed, sore now, unusually sore...upper inner thigh sore but I ran anyway. I've been sore before, ha!, there it is! my downfall....and just when you think you know everything.

After a week of hard running I couldn't walk, like Dr. Frankensteins assistant in "Young Dr. Frankenstein"...." you Igor! get me a brain!, a healthy brain!". I drug myself around, drug my leg around; man it hurt. You can only fake those little things, like gifts that you dont like... that sheepish smile just to satisfy those around you...... but not pain like this; you cant fake a walk when you just can walk! I spent hours on the internet doing research, educating myself about muscles, tears and strains..hours...and hours. Then it happened, a race, a trail race that seemed to good to pass up!

It was called Bandit and it was beautiful, a 30k run through the mountains above Simi Valley and it called to me..... after all it was the first run of this race, just organized! and my first official trail run... so I did it. I completed the race but not before my left leg seized up on me during the last half mile of downhill; frozen, clamped tight i felt it run through my thight; scary.

It was Physical Therapy after that because I might be a runner, a stuborn runner but we do know our bodies.....at times people might think they know more but we know OUR bodies. And mine had enough. My adductors were strained but I learned alot from therapy, my gluts were not strong enough and were not firing before my quads fired which put extra strain on the adductors and hip flexor; wow... kinda boring but interesting at the same time!..... The exercises were easy, there were many but they were routines that you can do at home if you knew what to do.......

So after weeks, months and the L.A. Marathon (they werent happy that I ran that one either), I moved on and took what I learned with me......to exercise at home for free.

I'm feeling better know, sometimes I'm reminded about my hip which I think might be a good thing......but I'm running almost at 100 % now, although it takes some time to get back what you lost...... a runner doesnt have that time to lose, it seems that for every day lost we loose two steps..so we just have to keep running.

This is a first for me, this blogging thing....I've got alot to talk about, things I've learned along the way; I'll get to em. For know though, I though I'd share my mentality with you, good or bad...at least its a beginning...... alot to talk about, trail running, Mt. Disappointment, Bulldog and the OC trailrunners .....