tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37845337162971460342024-03-05T08:59:18.058-05:00Adventures on the road less traveledThe day in the life of a kid-like adventurerAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.comBlogger132125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-8149990662737494622013-05-30T18:04:00.001-04:002013-05-30T18:04:18.751-04:00On to new adventuresMay 12, 2013 the day before I turned 41 this year I decided to draw a line in the sand and retire from running.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Tonight on the eve of my 41st birthday, here is my closing speech........</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">I have ran fast,</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">I have ran far,</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">I have ran my best,</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">And now I run no more...</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Thank you for all the memories!</span><br />
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Wanting to always focus on the positive in life and not running was not very positive I decided to stop. It was not an easy choice but with the daily Achilles issue it did make it a bit simpler. I have enjoyed the entire seven years of running tremendously. Making a lot new friends, seeing many amazing places, supporting others in achieving their goals and personally pushing myself new levels.<br />
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I am sure I could sit and write for days about all my experiences but no one has that much time to read about all my nonsense. Many people know that when I start talking about running I can talk and talk with a bit of excitement For those of who that read this I am sure you know how much appreciated spending time with you running. <br />
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Well now I am off on new adventures. I surfed last year for the first time and now that I am two blocks from the ocean I will focus a bit on improving in that activity. Additionally, try out stand-up paddle boarding and get back to skateboarding. Last week I did crash hard while skateboarding, but with a bit more practice I might be ok (well at least I hope so)! Plus it is always fun to try new things. In 2005 when I started running I never thought it would take me to where I got. One of my first goals was to break a 7:00 min mile and with focus I eventually pulled off a 4:54 per mile. Who knows maybe I will make it on the pro-am surf tour ha ha!!<br />
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Well best wishes to everyone out there in their endeavors in life! I will continue to blog about my adventures and a bit of nonsense because that is who I am :)<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-33825353172234691232013-04-30T18:17:00.000-04:002013-04-30T18:17:13.570-04:00The Rodeo<span style="font-size: large;"><b>If it was only 8 seconds......</b>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> At this point I would rather get on the bull and take that 8 second ride. Knowing it be would be a cakewalk to what I have ahead of me to train for another 100 miler with 6 months off from training. I think about it about it alot and knowing the amount of commitment it takes to toe the line is deep. Is this cowboy ready to climb back in the saddle? Take some rough hits? Get tossed to the ground? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Been through this rodeo 11 times in the 100 mile distance is something I reflect back on with some pride. The rides consisted of Umstead, Hallucination, Rocky Raccoon, Leadville, Virgil Crest, Leadville, Haliburton, Ozark, Massanutten, Angeles Crest & Javelina. I started my running addiction in 2005 and rode non-stop until November 2012. So never leaving the saddle kept things in focus and never a question of whether I could finish the ride. Now sitting back and watching the other cowboys I wonder if I got what it takes to travel the distance.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Wearing my buckles can be a challenge because it reflects back to what I did not what I am doing now. So people ask "wow you run 100 miles race?" Technically I did not for awhile now is what runs through my mind. The running was intertwined between the enjoyment and the challenge of the distance. I never started running with the thought that someday I would cover 100 miles in under 24 straight hours, but my goals grew and I did it. Even pushing the limit to running across the state of Michigan from coast to coast all the way back down to setting a new record for myself in the 1 mile distance. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> At this point I will recover 100% and build back up gradually. I am not afraid of the distance, it's just knowing how much commitment lies ahead of me that seems a bit overwhelming at this point. When I cross the next finish line there will be some serious celebrating. So whatever goals you have just know with planning and time you will achieve them!!</span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-35918975029586027532013-03-31T20:54:00.001-04:002013-03-31T20:54:16.476-04:00March Madness<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Moving forward as time normally does I making progress in my fitness with my gym membership at 220 Fitness. It has a great selection of things that keep my fitness strong. From the aerobic classes of Buti, spin classes, boxing, weights and the cross-fit tools of tires & things. Additionally, I got a month of yoga at Exhale and worked on improving my flexibility which is near zero so any improvement is easy to see. Looking to touch my toes by the summer without bending my knees. Both 220 & Exhale are within a ten minute walk from my house so I have no excuses not to go. I am also getting a good amount of time riding around on fixie bike putting in 50 miles a week on the average. The beauty is that I usually keep up or beat the traffic in the rush hour periods. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A couple trips have gotten me out of Santa Monica for some change of scene. One trip was a bike ride to the Palisades which had some nice hill climbs and beautiful views. This got me to the Temescal Trailhead. Back in January I ran some the Temescal trail so I will be adding this to the list of training courses. Knowing that I can bike there with the ease of the beach strand being a straight shot sets me for future trips. There is just one long hill climb on the bike from the ocean up to the trailhead.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">En Route to the Parker Mesa on Los Leones in Santa Monica<br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The other was trip to Los Leones for some trail running. The run was 7.75 miles roundtrip up the Parker Mesa trail. Essentially all up then all down on the return trip. Got a few nice pictures from that run. The view at the top of the mesa had a some marine level blocking the view of the Santa Monica Pier. This short course gives a good amount of hill climbing. The goal is to hit the return trip back down in 30 minutes or less. Setting some FKT in my little personal world and improving through summer will give me a solid understanding of my performance.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Looking forward into April I plan to hit one trail run per week. Which will include a bike ride to get there then bike back. The run itself will be most likely a hike/run mixture. Now I have Los Leones, Temescal, Will Rogers to the Hub, Westridge and Point Mugu as local options. Eventually I will be able to navigate the entire 68 miles of the Santa Monica Mountains Backbone trail all on my own. IT is still extremely tight and mornings I wobble around with tight ankles. Knowing the AC 100 is a mere few months away I am wondering what running shape I will be in for it. Physically I am building total body strength in the gym. A huge thanks to Aimee Cinzori who trained me last year and helped me build several workout routines that I am still using. </span></div>
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</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-60478943746426139392013-02-17T16:38:00.001-05:002013-02-17T16:38:52.589-05:00Dragging my feet on the plan<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Dragging my feet..no more!</span></b><br />
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<br /> So I wrote a plan to get back into running after closing out a horrible 2012. The plan was to start with some light road runs, biking, yoga and weight lifting. I got the gym membership, yoga membership, starting riding my bike, but didn't get the running portion started until today (two weeks off schedule).<br />
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Running in the warmth of the 70 degree days in Santa Monica would have made sense. Instead I waited until I was in Michigan visiting for the weekend to do it. This morning with the companionship of my friends Melissa, Mark, Kai, Keith, Andrew & Melanie we hit the trail. The sun was out and perfect blue skies. The trail was a bit icy in some spots due to the fact it was only 12F and with the chill in the air the word was it was near 5F. <br />
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Now when I get Tuesday night I have no reason not to hit the road/track/trails for some miles. Having to wear only a shirt and shorts should make it quick & easy to get out the door. I have a few friends in California that run too. So getting in those longer runs will be nice.<br />
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Well 2013 is here and so is my running plan. Not a lot of races but working on getting healthy for a 2014 season. In the meantime, I will enjoy the time I spend running because thats why I do run!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-74238162039015381262013-01-12T19:01:00.001-05:002013-01-12T19:10:38.934-05:00Getting 2013 into motion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: orange; font-size: x-large;"><b>On the Road Again....</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well after finishing 2012 on the "wrong foot" I am now getting focused on getting back on the "right foot." Took some time to rest, gather ideas, surf the web and talk to friends in the running community. After having my calves worked on by two different individuals it was determined I have the "worst" calves ever seen. What has happened is that the calf muscle has knotted up with another muscle that is pulling on my Achilles. So all the tension is causing the discomfort in my Achilles again. As you can see all those muscles are connected and without having the right people check it is hard to find the source of the problem. I allowed this to happen on a daily basis for over five years. Each morning I got up and walked around with discomfort. Then eventually it broke me down during the Javelina Jundred at mile 78.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Also during my downtime of running I have been filling my time with books, magazines and some movies. I did find one new running book that really inspired me to get signed up for a race once healthy. It's called "The Longest Race" and is about a guy returning to run the JFK and beat the age record time. Throughout the book he inner twines life into each mile of the race. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">One speed...As fast as I can pedal!! Note only one brake too.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> With that knowledge in hand I am now able to focus on working out the knots twice a day in my calves. Additionally, I got a fixie bike, basically it is a single speed that the pedals always turn when the wheels turn, so I can cross train without putting to much strain on my calves. I feel the quads getting a nice workout while I attack the hills on my commuting around town.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> By February 1st I plan to start my running plan and taking in the gorgeous views of the mountains around me. Building the base for the first several weeks, then a period of longer endurance runs and closing it out with some intense weeks. I have done one hike this year on a local trail and got a few pictures. I will be mixing it up on the track, road and trails so that I work the muscles in different ways while trying to avoid another big knot.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"> We for now it is time to sign off and work on my calves. Best wishes to everyone running this weekend and every day. Be sure to be proactive so that you don't get setbacks like what I have been going through for the past couple of months.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">So many choices which way should I go??<br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-74494690769192371412013-01-04T21:48:00.001-05:002013-01-05T01:55:10.440-05:002012 What's it all about?<p>     Well 2012 didn't go as planned is an understatement. After having a successful 2011 it leaves curiosities in my mind. The beginning of the year started on track with some short road races in the snow/cold. Set a 4 mile personal record and had multiple podium finishes.</p>
<p>     Then I began training with a coach, Aimee Cinzori. She modified my diet and added muscle to me. During that period I threw down three 50k races in April and set a personal record in that distance. This was all part of the building process for my 40th birthday party at the Massanutten 100 mile. Going against the adage of don't try something new on race day I applied a different lotion to my feet and at 70 miles in the race I dropped.</p>
<p>     Summer came I played in Virginia Beach with the family. Attended my imaginary summer camp to build up for another atttempt at a 100 mile buckle. At the end of summer I was feeling strong and took on Angeles Crest 100 Mile. Using the same lotion I dropped at 51 miles. Then problem solving the why of the lotion I learned it was for post race not during the race. I had been causing blisters not preventing. A few weeks later I took on a 50 Mile race and achieved a new personal record.</p>
<p>     Fall arrived and so did the final races of the year. Paced some friends in a hundred miler, set a personal record in a 100k, paced a group in the Detroit Marathon then attempted my final 100 mile run of the year. Breaking down at mile 78 from excessive achilles pain. I settled on the 100k finish and closed out my year on a dissapointing injury. </p>
<p>     All of the last two months I rested my legs and hoped for a healthily recovery. Nothing changed by year end. So now I am building a plan to comeback strong in 2013.</p>
<p>Here is a breakdown of the 2012 goals:<br>
1. Run six ultras YES<br>
    Moab 55km, Winona 50km, Fools 50km, Tie Dye 50km, Wild West 50km, North Country 50mile, Top of Michigan 100km and Javelina 100km.</p>
<p>2. Run the mile under 4:50 NO<br>
     Never tried because of injury</p>
<p>3. Set two personal records YES<br>
     Winona 50km 4:36:43<br>
     Leap Year 4 mile 25:10<br>
     NC50 mile 9:49:46<br>
     TOM 100km 12:46:59</p>
<p>4. Pace/crew two events YES<br>
    Paced Hallucination 100 mile<br>
    Paced Detroit Marathon 4:4000</p>
<p>5. Volunteer at one event YES<br>
     Co-hosted 4 cross country style events</p>
<p>Now the 2013 goals:<br>
1. Run in four ultras<br>
2. Set one personal record<br>
3. Volunteer at two events<br>
4. Crew/pace at two events<br>
5. Run something personally eventful</p>
<p>By cross training through yoga, biking, surfing and more I should be running strong in the second half of 2013!</p>
<p>Now for a few meaningful awards:</p>
<p>Unstoppable Award - Matt A.<br>
Comeback Award - Keith K.<br>
Sidekick Award - Erin C.<br>
Sherpa Award - Lucille R aka mom</p>
<p>For now I wanted to get this posted and will had some more content in various spots. In addition, I have about a dozen photos that capture the year. </p>
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Looks like the entire month of October blew by like the leaves on the trees. Saw a lot of beauty and really enjoyed the time spent during the month. Started out the month with my girlfriend visiting and running some of my favorite places. The color change was in full effect making each run very scenic. <br />
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Middle of the month gave way to my first 100km race. The Top of Michigan is a point to point from Gaylord to Mackinaw City by the bridge. After convincing several friends it was more of group training run. Mark, Melissa, Ken, Kurt, Andrew S, Andrew H and me were all part of small group working together throughout the run. The beginning were we much tighter together as we eclipsed the 50km the group began to form smaller groups. The course is a converted rail to trail that is very flat and wide enough to pass with no issues. The colors on the trees were changing giving a lot of moments for picturing taking. The constant rain and cool temps provided the challenge to the ultra. At one point the rain to a light sleet which lasted only for a few minutes. I was able to make it to the finish just before darkness closing out the run with a personal best of 12:46:59.<br />
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Then it was a short tour of the city by pacing the 4 hour 40 minute runners in the Detroit Marathon. This was my third time pacing at the marathon and by far my biggest group of runners. At the start I had about 17 people all eager to join me for the tour of Detroit. The weather was ideal with warm temps and clear skies. This was the best weather I have ever experienced in any marathon!!Around the half I still had 90% of them in viewing distance. By the end there was five of us. Three of us crossed the line together and two were just a few minutes behind. Two runners pushed ahead around mile 23 and finished ahead of the group. Focusing on the two I had and wanting them to finish I held back on pace and finished 4:40:42. <br />
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Finally, it was time for one last race of the season. Headed out to Arizona for Javelina Jundred. Covered 78 miles in 13:45:24. Placing 34th in the 100km. Another great October run with beautiful weather of clear skies and at night a full moon. The course is 15.5 miles and is ran washing machine style six times (essentientally back and forth) then the last loop is cut short for ten miles giving the course 102 miles of joy. My crew/pacer was key in my first four loops being so successful. Erin had bottles, food and ice ready each time I came through the start/finish. Her smile was contagious and towards the end of each loop I was always looking forward to it. During the loop there were four aid stations. As the temperature neared the 90's I would have a volunteer spray me down with cold water. With the pumpkin pie, cytomax, ice water and excitement of friends I sailed through the daytime. Heading out for the fifth loop Erin joined me. The average was 3 hours 10 minutes per loop on the previous loops; this loop took just over seven hours. About two miles in my Achilles were tightening up and gradually over the next few miles the tightness worked it's way up into my hip flexors. I was reduced to a slow and extremely painful walk. Physically I knew after several miles I was not going to finish the 100 mile option and end up taking the 100 km belt buckle option. At one period I was given some bio-freeze and Tylenol to cover up the pain, but that only minimized it a little. Once the loop was over we checked me in to the medical tent to evaluate my condition. The medical staff determined that my achilles were so tight that they were on the edge of detaching part of my bone off the heel. Knowing I want to run again I went over and climbed into a sleeping bag calling it a night.<br />
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Overall, running three races of those sizes in three weeks straight taught me my body needs more recovery time. Even the week after Javelina I am still having some discomfort in my heels.Covering over 166 miles of racing I saw a lot of beauty and really enjoyed the time spent with my close friends. Going into 2013 I will still be running and spending even more time with them. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-30213370071476927502012-09-26T14:51:00.001-04:002012-09-26T14:51:55.386-04:00Time for recess at the Twin Peaks playground<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Time for recess!!</span></strong><br />
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As I have said many times before the Twin Peaks area of Corona, California is my favorite place to run. It offers some incredible views, diverse terrain and some ridicously long hard climbs over miles and miles. Knowing it was going to be a hot day I packed 300 ounces of frozen water into my backpack and hiked it up the first seven miles to create a water drop for Erin Chavin and me. This would allow us to refill and continue up the remaining four miles to Santiago Peak. Once at Santiago we would be able to make it back down to the water drop to refill again before decending the original 11 miles to the start.<br />
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My two new friends I met on the way up Indian Truck Trail<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"> The climb from the start was filled with splendid views and every mile up the road changed constantly. Sometimes it would be a pine needle forest, other times just bare exposed & hot then other times it would open up showing the surrounding peaks.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">To the right is a photo I captured of the Indian Truck Trail that we followed up to the Upper Holy Jim singletrack. The same route that is used for the beginning of the Twin Peaks 50++ Mile Race in October.</span></div>
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Once refilled we worked our way up the last bit of road section to the singletrack climb. This area is a non-stop switchback climb giving us view after view of the peaks. The sun was heating up the day, but there was some shady spots that shielded us from the heat. This was not nearly as bad as the heat from my previous California runs, but still hotter than an average run in Michigan.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Erin pausing for a photo with Santiago Peak in the background</td></tr>
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Reaching Santiago Peak was the highlight of the climb. Last time I was at the top of this peak was in the race last year. A race volunteer noticed I had a camera and offered to take a picture of me. It is the photo I currently use as my Google profile picture. At the time I didn't notice but I was showing exhaustion which is displayed nicely in the photo. So Erin took some pictures of me today with a smile on my face. The entire climb up I was smiling much more than in the race partly because the run was much shorter with only one big climb versus the four climbs totaling 17,500+ in elevation gain on the race course.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Erin on the climb up the Upper Holy Jim Trail<br />
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<br />Now it was time for the 11 mile downhill run. Feeling full of excitment it was time to charge down the course. The first few miles Erin and I exchanged the lead manuevering the rocky road section to the Upper Holy Jim. Erin made a quick stop and moved on to the trailhead. Arriving just a moment before her I looked back to catch a quick glimpse as she lost her footing and hit the ground with a scream. Concerned I headed over to check on her. Her hand was took the blunt of the fall so we washed it up and tied a bandana on it to keep it clean on the way back down. Once we got back to the water drop we stopped to refill the bottles and clean up her hand. It was a good thing we packed all that water and used about 2/3's of it. With just seven miles left we made a final charge down the course in the time of an hour flat. Quickly we got our gear back in the car and headed home as the moon was starting to reveal the night. </div>
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A few more pictures from the adventure.....</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-43625691966046667742012-09-20T22:14:00.001-04:002012-09-26T13:43:17.063-04:00California or was it the Sun?<div>
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Over the past few days I headed out to California to spend some quality time on the trails with my girlfriend and friends. Erin was celebrating her 10 year anniversary of living in CA. The plan was to run the entire Backbone trail which is a point to point run in the Santa Monica Mountains.<br />
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Flying in Friday evening I saw a forest fire as the plane touched down. Erin informed me that that was close but not on the trail we were going to run on Saturday. A forest fire is never a good thing because it can get out of control quickly.<br />
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Saturday morning we headed to Point Mugu to start the 68 mile run at 5:00 am. The stars were bright and nice 70F air temp. The forecast was 95F and we wanted to get some mileage knocked out before the heat started to take its toll on us. The first portion of the day felt good then as we hit open exposed areas I felt the heat quickly increase. Flashbacks of the AC100 ran through my mind. Sporting two handheld bottles I was armed with 32 ounces between water stops. Knowing I average 16 ounces every hour I needed to control my consumption to make some sections.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Working the trail in darkness from Point Mugu<br />
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The biggest challenge of the day for me was a 18 mile stretch with no water stops. I tried to hold back on drinking but the temperature was rising. With 10 miles to go in section I was down around 12 ounces. I started to worry that I was going into a really bad place. Four miles later my bottles were empty. Kate Jobe was able to flag down some mountain bikers and score me about 20 ounces of water. Sadly, two miles later I was out again. Erin, Kate and I gathered at a road crossing. Erin arrived a few minutes before the two of us and had a few cold bottles of water. While she was there a gentleman showed up and after talking to her went & got some water for us. Then we all began searching nearby homes for water. Luckily, we found a homeowner that helped us out. We refilled all our bottles, got some ice, and some citrus fruit. The woman was so helpful without her we might not have made another step.<br />
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Finally after making it to mile 27 our first real aid station I was spent. Sitting there I drank 96 ounces of coke, cytomax and water. Miles had passed since I stopped sweating and peeing. Hoping to replenish all my lost fluids so that I could make a comeback and finish the run became my only goal.<br />
After leaving the aid station it was 12 miles to the next aid station. I planned a bit better and added a third bottle to pack to make the distance. A few miles passed and I started to feel strong again. I had finally reached my comeback and pressing forward with a smile once again. <br />
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When we arrived at mile 38 it became official that our run was over. A suspected arsonist had started a forest fire in the later portion of our run. So making it to 50 miles was a possibility but there was a stronger possibility that our aid station wouldn't be there. Not needing to add more danager to the day we all bowed out. No one wanted to do this but safety was the main concern.<br />
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We will all return in the spring to repeat the journey but the next time will be the entire 68 miles.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-14335327697552115152012-09-09T23:30:00.001-04:002012-09-09T23:42:40.479-04:00Leading the way through the night<div><p>Saturday September 8, 2012 just a few minutes past midnight in the middle of a huge rainstorm I await for the arrival of two friends. Todd & Emily Bello who are in the midst of the Hallucination 100 Mile race. Not only were they running this one they had recently completed three other 100 Mile races in the Midwest Slam. </p>
<p>I met them back in April 2010 at the Pittsburgh Marathon. All three of us were there to pace the marathon. A conversation started up about ultras and I steered them into signing up for their first 100 mile race. That June they toed the line for the Mohican 100 Mile in Ohio. As promised my friend Keith & I showed up to pace them the last half of the race. It was a great adventure and the four of us crossed the line holding hands.</p>
<p>Well they asked if we would help again this summer. With conflicting race schedules it turned up we would be able to pace them at the final race of the series. Keith was coming off and injury so we decided to split the pacing up. I would start at midnight and pace 34 miles. Then about eight in the morning Keith would pace them the final 17 miles. This would make it possible for me to get to work on time too.</p>
<p>Waiting at Hell Creek Ranch to pick them up at mile 50 in the race I sat and chatted with Emily's dad. He briefed me that the rainstorm had slowed them down a bit and they were looking forward to meeting with me for the night. Around two in the morning they arrived with smiles & hugs. Filled with excitement I was ready to lead on through the night. Another friend of ours Kai, who was running the 100 mile too, joined us for the first 17 miles. I took the lead and off into the cold rainstorm we went. The temp was in low 50's and rain fell constantly making the trail a small river at times. Other times it was a nasty muddy mess that would try to suck the shoes off your feet.</p>
<p>As a pacer I try my best to ensure I do all the problem solving without them knowing a problem might occur. Keeping them in positive spirits is the main goal. Three issues came up and without them knowing it all three were resolved. Only after the race did they learn about them. The first was that Emily was getting cold so I gave her my arm sleeves to fight the chill. Quickly after giving them to her I realized I was getting cold. Knowing that I only had to run a small portion of what they were doing I pushed on without hesitation. Second issue came towards the end of the loop when I kicked something hard that knocked me to the ground. A bit shaken I said, "all good let's move on." It felt like I had broken two toes. Not wanting to bother them I just kept running. The final issue was that we were slightly behind schedule and I needed to get to work. So I arranged it that I would continue to mile 71 then head out. Then Keith would join up early at mile 75. This way they only had 4 miles to travel alone. Sure enough it worked out and Keith arrived 15 minutes before them at the aid station.</p>
<p>In the end, I was able to spend about seven hours in the middle of night running through a cold rainy storm on trails with my friends. I am sure they would do it for me if I asked them. They told me that in 2013 they have something big planned and wanted to know if I would pace. Let's just say I have that date booked for them and will be ready for another adventure!!</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Q7NhzFOJsGgJcujs89YbWiVdVnj-OC1gFboCxuiJcjY8ZG-AHhmmAz1uCuFnMGkjMl5YqahtbgPYPwF6lxoUfAFzpyldB1FW7FIw_Apx7gB5qnEwLSXr8FE5v0FYvShY8Lxabb8lXCc/' /><br/><img src='http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4b07DQGju2M/UE1hru5lGNI/AAAAAAAAKgk/pdM94YMBLC8/IMAG0002.png' /><br/><img src='http://lh3.ggpht.com/-U6is0JhLrjU/UE1e2KfBIRI/AAAAAAAAKgE/-q1GGdqhUsY/IMAG0002.png' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-84657704894552238622012-09-01T18:26:00.001-04:002012-09-01T18:26:23.297-04:00Closing up Camp<div><p>Mom & dad,</p>
<p>Thanks for sending to camp again for the third year in a row. It wasn't my strongest year but I did set a PB in the final camp race. Cleared 50 miles in 9:49:46.03. </p>
<p>Meet a few new campers that will carry over until the return of next year's camp. In addition, strengthen my relationships with some campers from the past.</p>
<p>I should be home in a few short days and looking forward to some wonderful fall runs. </p>
<p>Well keeping it short for now. See you soon.</p>
<p>Love<br>
Steven</p>
<br/><img src='http://lh5.ggpht.com/-q-nrQe7sK6M/UEKLjE2azdI/AAAAAAAAKEM/bt98n_iKXPg/IMAG0868.png' /><br/><img src='http://lh5.ggpht.com/-exmaytkLkjo/UEKLjv14AGI/AAAAAAAAKEU/PKquTkJL8tI/NCT-2012-HeaderImage.png' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-74517444014097289762012-08-24T11:29:00.001-04:002012-08-24T14:26:19.210-04:00Summer Camp #12<br />
Mom & dad,<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hanging out on the Backbone Trail<br />
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Well the final week of camp was amazing!! It was suppose to be a low mileage taper going into the big camp race off this Saturday. There looks to be a big turn-out in the race. The weather updated to some possible rain and temps near 80F. What can you say when you run for hours and hours the weather will always change by the time you finish. So I will make the most of it.</div>
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Monday headed to Malibu to watch the sunset with The One. Ran Point Mugu up as the sun set then then down in total darkness (6 miles round trip). The weather was ideal on the run up and the stars were incredible on the return down. The best two trails in California are the Ray Miller out and the Ray Miller back. </div>
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Tuesday went bigger and tougher on part of AC 100 course. </div>
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We went from Chantry Flats up to Mt. Wilson (14 miles round trip). I was told there would be ice cream at the top. upon arriving at the top we noticed they were closed for the day. The run back down was quick and exciting!</div>
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Later got to watch some baseball. Which was a tough game for the home team. We still enjoyed the time there.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post run fun at Dodger Stadium. Giants won the game but still had a great time!</td></tr>
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Wednesday was a free day from running. So we hit the beach. Water was a bit cold with some small waves on the ocean. There was some volleyball going down with the campers. We didn't have a lot of time so we watched for a bit. Then tThursday headed to the valley for a short four mile run with 20+ other campers. The fog was intense throughout the run. Would have taken a photo but there wouldn't have been anything to see.<br />
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Back in my cabin gathering up my race gear for the race tomorrow. The President, Majic, Milkman, Green Hornet and Tumbleweed can't make it, but all ran it in the past. They have some ambitious expectations for me. Going to do my best and try to hold back on the speed on the first loop of 25 miles.</div>
Really want to run a strong race. Well I should be able to be tracked on the North Country 50 mile site. <br />
<br />
Take care and love you<br />Steve<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ray Miller looking back at the Pacfic Ocean</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-70330898381548394662012-08-22T14:56:00.001-04:002012-08-22T14:56:28.168-04:00Summer Camp #11<div><p>Mom & dad,</p>
<p>Camp has been a bit quiet after the time trial over the weekend. Some great weather for the 5k and 50k races. I volunteered for both as next weekend will be my time for fun.  This camp has been getting me ready for the summer end run! </p>
<p>Lots of returning campers and even got to meet several new campers. Looking forward to closing out another summer with the anticipation of returning next summer for even more fun!!</p>
<p>I got a surprise trip to California 18-23rd. So there several nice mountain runs planned. Running with the gorilla, she is tough and goes hard for the wins, and some coyotes too. Just an amazing week it will be.</p>
<p>Off to do some chores. Hopefully, not washing any more dishes. That chore sucks!!</p>
<p>Love<br>
Steve</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAi7nZs83W-KtZ5F8xNpIt60Rw4wFx0bugi7FoAKmux81I2P-287c_8kWYhQB7Mo_gpfPaWn78egiOgn-sQH84LZYbFAbc8HrtjNUsue7_P2TJYrD2MU0yrgj_NLJdfBxzX4ksHh5jcIg/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjze_Z1uEcwGdB3ilffxzYQBbhC1keupSSMKG-Aun6YNjEUxdqxtnEh5fNyPMM29eseH77tlZMbLcVcz_WXzsw_HbyBIvRVnIwJbJZ7zEH3wsNDbv1qlBGnrDJ46T3JdoJE9rZYiAIV9uc/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-26269157098953285782012-08-10T13:50:00.001-04:002012-08-10T13:52:14.002-04:00Summer Camp #10<div><p>Mom & dad,</p>
<p>Well camp is coming to a close in two weeks. I learned a lot about myself again this summer. There weren't a lot of woo hoo moments, but I still enjoyed the adventure. Learning from mistakes are always useful for future performance.</p>
<p>Saw some amazing things and met several amazing people. After camp I am sure I will be seeing some of the others campers outside of camp. </p>
<p>This week was a good mixture of speed, tempo and weights. Body is feeling good on daily basis. This weekend will be the final time trial for the cabins. In addition, back to back mid distance runs. Each one will be around 15-25 miles. </p>
<p>Then the taper will gradually build for the final camp race on August 25th. A good ole 50 mile trail run. Looking to set a new personal best.</p>
<p>Love<br>
Steve</p>
<p>PS I included some pictures. The first one was a post run against a horse then chores.</p>
<br/><img src='http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TF6ttStwgXw/UCVJ8mw8CaI/AAAAAAAAImQ/rT3mKHSIGMU/IMAG0753.png' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_kbocmFFRxPxF-b_KkaFmr2DLx1t1nhb_CusUdHB-4pRIg3PsLGOfeupuZKF5cCkKG3gLjdkAczwsdTTSpra_tftAC580EwZdzYlw-aFSpzAx3Dp_VFcL04Dbr-hdA9___EZna67XQQ/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUk2Mi64XpvLElNZOdUHVphuMn2PKHhYuJh2PXorLe3bSMPSoh53zDnOPX87SS2uakaSNuCjIqDANbMg6pdNaWbHiHGC48Q4gz90tzFxxvZvSdPTuzG7Rd6mM7rOALDNKHFtPqPHz6U9w/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-56553903724191315302012-08-05T12:24:00.001-04:002012-08-05T12:24:25.477-04:00Summer Camp #9<div><p>Mom & dad,<br>
Another week and more miles. Feet healed up but look rather rough. Give them a few more days and they will be sandal approved. Still got out for some more running.</p>
<p> Friday night there was an all boy run "caveman." It was a great time!! The run got tricky once the sun went down and no one had a light/headlamp. After the run we were treated to some red meat that was truly cooked through with some killer sides.</p>
<p> Coach had me back in the gym lifting weights and then put me through a wicked tough track session. Felt good that I made it through both sessions in one piece.</p>
<p> The upcoming weekend will be the final time trial of the season. No one was broke 19:00 on the course. I think with this being the final there will be some serious sprinting through the woods. Hopefully, I am not banned again from this event.</p>
<p> I met another camper that is going to work with me on some long distance runs. Looking forward to some time on New trails that are beautifully challenging. I enclosed one of the pictures from the trails.</p>
<p>Love<br>
<font color ="#000000">Steve</font></p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzQ5L7lDf1vFIRqJOjjUoQU3QdbpZm-M0oB-wKyhYXIgGfeNFtMRLzcwHFHelXsYL17M4y-Isi2HpkPRNFJ9hL_ODEKudOYI-m2a76gt6S5GD0hOUIztq5pz6Cu8vrlHU61JKIOcqvK-E/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQT1Umex7d0-r2e06mqZcESQctv4Sx4dFS_GpxKZuDT1R_1kWND_4KNauvdzmJ_pxCYuE-E01qGsIV2YAHHIm4-mJNE5XhpTGhUkEu0L_sauOy3pDKb1hM0A1SLS8G4ugqRXrgLfM87ng/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-87451621777603428502012-07-28T10:38:00.001-04:002012-07-28T10:39:45.016-04:00Summer Camp #7 & #8<div><p>Mom & dad,</p>
<p>The last week was crazy and I didn't get a letter out, sorry. The previous week was a bit hectic getting ready for the AC Camp weekend in California. The President & Green Hornet made the trip too. One day was spent checking out the area. It is sooooo beautiful!! </p>
<p>Well the group run on Saturday didn't go so good. The heat was around 95-98F throughout the day. The elevation didn't seem tough, but my heart rate was out of control. Then on top of that I started blistering at 20+ miles. As I walked my last section of the run I ended up dropping halfway through the <font color ="#000000">group</font> run. In short, yea I was crushed. A lot of campers told me that it happens. Well that doesn't make it any better. I know I have the ability to buckle again and I WILL. </p>
<p>So with a few more weeks of camp left I need to get my head in the game and produce. Speed work and two a days will be more of focus.</p>
<p>This week was just normal downtime camp activities: campfire roasting, finger painting, and other things. </p>
<p>Well of to hang out with some campers for the weekend. I will update you next week to how the speed feels.</p>
<p>Love<br>
Steve</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguHEzRkEtHElM_M3Fzmeq0OSJBP1x_thKOFk5D4Vq_AyJl9HT6VuvbIGJrmMCWN7HyuvswcaomHlOen0bRm1oZZ3z6j3ZgOUBvTB_atOxjtovu5CYWlgNrXPgvgmPnmPmbJMT2OCx2qhc/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL79ipz3qO2iHyXIyivVeCNLum3avib56scWUgbFmRcX4WVNPmUScL4RHBvkSK3K9gKOfaJS3_0WZS9fUrTNN1sSzQSM_9V3aBIRCVVo-KBW3l-tEdttgfov-Z0Q9-uaK9XyBhuglyYvc/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNjr8d8DJkJWMcRji3wgEqjvqE2yDRGEjumW-M7qURwR_Y546Uz6BUYYeQ8KrpTu15lfY2FKYLUQz7EvubWn1h0byKi5UgUb7T38nBCAR0YdnVLhQyy-qGiX5h1O_B2KY6Ox0D3Zdgk44/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-70420403307908346282012-07-15T08:08:00.001-04:002012-07-15T08:24:48.523-04:00Summer Camp #6<div><p>Mom & dad,</p>
<p>Another week has gone by and it was a tough week for sure. Coach sent Luda and me to the Sleeping Bear Dunes N.P. for some serious training. Luda has a race this week and next weekend I head west to run with the President & Green Hornet. The park offered a diverse selection of terrain. We climbed sand dunes, ran the beach, hit the pine needle covered trails and a bit of paved sections. It appears that neither of us can read a map because we spent a lot of time time. After camp I think I will come back for one more visit. </p>
<p>Wednesday a few of us had to meet with the counselors about having alcohol. So Thursday I was sent cross camp to get some supplies as punishment. It was a round trip of 50 miles and took me nine hours. I would say I learned my lesson.</p>
<p>This weekend we are holding another time trial as the cabins race off. Since the few of us are still on punishment we will volunteering at the event.</p>
<p>Got a new shirt this week since it has been so hot lately. The least amount of fabric the better.</p>
<p>Outside of that there was not a lot of activities that took place. It is amazing at how fast this summer is moving. Well I will continue to make the most of camp and enjoy the time remaining.</p>
<p>Love<br>
Steve</p>
<p>PS send me some blister salve for my feet, some sweet cherries and bit-o-honey candy.</p>
<br/><img src='http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JhURuV86UhE/UAKzCWvHkVI/AAAAAAAAGTM/PLXq1AaEUxI/IMAG0500.png' /><br/><img src='http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6zlwK2bfgZA/UAKy60MVhzI/AAAAAAAAGTE/plkHmKEb1ZU/IMAG0487.png' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsuEmGyHTAIn3Aa-JqGWq7ixqkS3zlsea2qVlnKbloQJ9uZrOtcfkNVMfq6Boy38-6NlZ5cvNsNZFUO604KSTicaTH76hHRTs1MHJVVUAZTMIzCb6EDLAFsgoGC486mTSeDT2Uh9ADkUk/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-pJlVebJ98A0J1bazuPbEH-qm2OL2x8RXhJZyCqW8eQhy_vsj4_l53lP_n9ewNxtqOlu-K5ZXMBzocq1p7J0PWMcmnR4pwmW4VynffheGyTHJj4dAcpGsBQnHi_Blh9iJcHrswA_wIk/' /><br/><img src='http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VDcgAFpucgM/UAKzC8eK-YI/AAAAAAAAGTU/4GbRNK1HItY/IMAG0002.png' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-10839124464906529742012-07-07T21:16:00.001-04:002012-07-07T21:37:59.659-04:00Summer Camp #5<div><p>Mom & dad,</p>
<p>Not too much happening this week at camp. The temp has been the biggest challenge. Everyday was triple digits with high humidity.  Most of the runs have resulted in some weight loss because of sweating. So been drinking a lot more and fueling throughout the day so that I can maintain my weight.</p>
<p>Ran with Attorney general, Luda and the Milkman this week. This weekend we have a big group run without the counselors. Probably some sort of mayhem, lol.</p>
<p>I hear the dinner bell I need to head to the meal hall.  See you in a few more weeks. Thanks for sending me to camp again. I get so much from it every year.</p>
<p>Love<br>
Steve</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg92B0yfuGWkkmJjUz30Ia4uQy2K1on4hBhKemfn61Y7khIrd1xXgnJwfOncW5NaFE1KSxaeyuYDIKyTj5vCs7WwXgqPYT5R_w1-34D5tlPJm1vwz7LFIhwExttWi7PVEtRDH5fBfBMPwQ/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-51500478280268251972012-07-03T09:17:00.001-04:002012-07-03T09:18:31.313-04:00Where's Steve??<div><p>Where am I at for my 2012 "The goals?"</p>
<p>1. Six Ultra Races <br>
Moab Red Hot 55K, Fools Trail 50K, Winona Lake 30M, Tie Dye 50K and Wild West 50K. 5 in total. Four more races scheduled before year end.</p>
<p>2. Mile in under 4:50 <br>
Havent tested my mile yet</p>
<p>3. Set two new PRs<br>
Winona 30M set a PR<br>
Leap Year 4M set a PR</p>
<p>4. Pace/crew in two events <br>
Plan to pace at the Hallucination 100 in Sept </p>
<p>5. Volunteer at one event<br>
Co-directed the RUT CC Meet in June<br>
Additional Meet planned for July 15</p>
<p>On to the second half of the year now to complete them all.<br>
</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQm5-SAN2WmFmCshsLSuxrK-H2oS0r45A10-15eIauUx6tPLDL4fgmtE7JdPfGapqpmy9zPH6UBGhOsLccjtlVmRBL9s4vsYfY-HXdroR6_r0wQwoYNN73P6xO8G2HUjNf640uFuYJjQ/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-6044576030308007382012-07-01T18:51:00.001-04:002012-07-01T18:52:59.394-04:00Summer Camp #4<div><p>Mom & dad,</p>
<p>This week I got shipped to the Camp VB (Virginia Beach). The camp activities were much cooler! Para-sailing, surfing, fishing in the Atlantic and much more. Some of us took a dare and ate raw oysters. They look nasty, smell nasty and didn't taste that yummy. Won't be doing that again anytime soon. One of the kids backed out so I did his oyster too.</p>
<p>The running was sweet. Got some road running, trail running, beach running and dune repeats. The key to the beach was finding the "spot." It is the area between surf and soft sand that gives enough firmness to be runnable.</p>
<p>Some of kids got crazy in the beach area, but nothing too out of control. I think it would be great to make a return trip again.</p>
<p>Well I am all settled back into Cabin #8. The Milkman made it to camp. A bit late but he has a few weeks to get some good training in still. Tumbleweed was a getaway weekend called Western States. He got a buckle from his time trial there on the course. Such an inspiring weekend of what he endured. </p>
<p>Got the cytomax gift from you. Thanks so much!!</p>
<p>Love<br>
Steve</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZvKx4S-UM79pIUmzldvPcsukiOrdvrgg0X13s-8E0kiWsDHyFaQXYHby6ojzB6Y7MVnT-ma7OcP9Jixx24xFs43FVefGO26rmlBNgPiw2Yb51KZlYhlhRccQAYb0j0liptjkv1mS1vI8/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinYU7Bk8PSxoPBTmOg2ilbBErX08LNaYTLxm3OASodOb2wv93JPsg9yYuSBNJOCmdn9QqaRHHDgQ407hqXw9tf0Duhh2dVq9eVGESsIY63L9ntX8uwLlPOy7MUf9i0kgf-WeYaE-2MaRQ/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Ny-6OAzjc2TxFvOvcEhnV4YIDHou1ejwbW_brTrZj6rqyKgmoxbZeaIZfIXQWgxmrVIkzUHXQ3acsbiw4vuqxwuqz6GyjFF6QX4dCqnyEnRNtVyHW_zn5P88rknf_NFIj42MCXRpm0c/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj30pBwZ1ZwssUEmvDtxfW9ztjlBfyvq0lZZ2eiaNyOWSjPXxqQ2cQ27D8cURfLPPyfqwzOTs-oklZkkT3TiEHbKv9Cv76MHFJLAo6mH-bOhtq2BuWyIA084qFaXwHmfuzgvb-NixiLWEE/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjToOk9FurIV2-XPP5hTTv_NtXw_rgKZHXsGBMMrlvHqeoXYvuOoo6XXrZgLvl9mk3leZvzK0BZifNdnU2q4LAscDpo-dDMvHnZBoZzyxkyjwmIEPyq3JdWQmu6wcGLa7-nHBdN3mKOpqk/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-73094702849695871072012-06-22T23:51:00.001-04:002012-06-23T00:04:47.882-04:00Summer Camp #3<div><p>Mom & dad,</p>
<p> What a week here at camp. The weather has been amazing and amazingly hot sometimes!! Got some faster runs in Luda and a new kid, called the attorney general, from Cabin 2. Sometimes he goes by AG because he is always an age group winner too. He took me out on some of the backhills. Wow a run it was. Climb up, up ,up and then now. My legs felt like they were on fire. Cooled off in the stream on the way back. A neighboring cabin got all cranky because thus felt we were too close to their personal space.</p>
<p> In addition, this week Coach Aimee put me through two strength workouts and a tough track session. The picture I included is me sporting a 20lb vest and holding a 9lb bar. I had to lunge walk like that repeatedly up the hill. I actually look forward to the easier bleacher repeats, lol. </p>
<p> Craft time this week was weak nothing cool to write back about. The friendship bracelets got put on hold. The fingerpaints were all dried up because some kid forgot to close them ip. Oh well!</p>
<p> In the morning I head to a cabin on the beach. They want me to run the beach for a week and do some two-a-days by adding trail runs. One kid said he will try to teach me how to surf by close of the week. </p>
<p>P.S. Still waiting on that care package. Hopefully, you have forgotten about me :-)</p>
<p>Love <br>
Steve</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguUIBFRk5fYTf2ZAz2so6VtIfa6wHW6ceD5aOQeS742DuYqYvji1q-Ylf1n5AALo2SAHc4T0sIAIta7_9vtdb2WnWMz4h2Eu5BAKiDzYCO9HZv6F_zjOUVpaMcjRk0qR_-Ten3N0N39sc/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-34589075038790276662012-06-15T10:25:00.000-04:002012-06-15T10:25:10.104-04:00Summer Camp Letter #2<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coach Aimee & me at the XC Meet</td></tr>
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Mom & dad,</div>
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Over the weekend we held a "time trial" XC race amongst the cabins. Cabin #4 brought a ringer from overseas, but as a team they didn't podium. The campers from Cabin #2 won it by a single point. It was a lot of fun for everyone. All of us from Cabin #8 were banned from the meet because of the raid we put on girls in Cabin #6. I am sure you got the letter already from the counselors. There will be a second XC Meet on July 15th. I hope I get to run in it. Here are a few pictures of the course from the weekend's race:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The course<br />
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On top of that The President took a branch in the eye during trail work. Then the next day during a run with Luda & Green Hornet I tripped and took a hard hit to the ground. I crashed on to an abrasive root. When I crashed I was dreaming of Dairy Queen; next time I will pay more attention. I got back up and finished the 20+ mile run. The following day Coach Aimee cut me some slack during strength training and just focused on legs since I was still sore.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The mark of the Tiger, lol<br />
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The weather has been good so we have been getting in a lot of outdoor activities. A few of the kids this weekend are going to Camp Mohican to have a little race with the kids from that camp. It should be a good time for them. Next weekend I get to go to Camp Virginia Beach. Coach wants me to cross train while there and get in a lot of miles. </div>
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Outside of that not a lot else going on here at camp. I noticed on the calendar there are only a few weeks left here. It is amazing at how fast time flies. Well I have to head to activity time now. We are learning how to make friendship bracelets today.</div>
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If you can send more Cytomax that would be great.</div>
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Love you</div>
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-54606247069213297172012-06-08T16:57:00.000-04:002012-06-08T17:05:57.695-04:00Summer Camp Letter 1Mom & Dad,<br />
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Thanks for sending me back to the running camp for my third summer. This year looks like I am in Cabin 8 with the President, Green Hornet, Tumbleweed and a few others. Most of the other kids are back too. I am sure everyone will be on their best behavior, of course.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">I got the top bunk, hooray!!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">The spot....Cabin 8</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"> Over the first weekend some of us got out for a group trail run and knocked out 15 miles. This year the camp has a new coach "Coach Aimee." In addition to running our coach has been putting us through two strength lifting sessions. The first day was brutal. She called it, "a street fight gone bad." Well let's just say a real street fight would have been a lot easier. On Tuesday coach had us running with the girls from Cabin 1. Let me tell you the First Lady and Luda are some fast girls. It was work, but we stayed with them on a very technical 12 mile trail run. Today coach had me sporting a 20 lb weighted vest while I was doing hill repeats. I have a feeling this year will be the toughest. Outside of that we have been doing some daily short runs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> The weather has been getting hot here so in the afternoon, we get to do some kayaking on the lake. Outside of that we have the usual afternoon camp activities. Like on Wednesday, we had to write haikus. Here is the one I wrote:</span></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-size: x-large;">Running in the woods is fun</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-size: x-large;">Up a hill and down a hill</span></em></strong></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>You can hear me breathe</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;">Not a lot is going on besides that in the first week. Except, Tumbleweed lost one of my water bottles in the woods. Can you send me a replacement??</span><span style="font-size: small;"> Also this weekend there is a competition 5K between cabins. Here are some photos of the course. </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-57464028529746757252012-06-02T10:02:00.001-04:002012-06-08T17:01:49.359-04:00Check my flow<div>
I have one goto source to check my performance when it comes to running. Within 48 hours of running a 100 mile race I have my bloodwork drawn. This let's me know what is happening internally. After my first 100 in April 2009 I was a mess from the race and that prompted the bloodwork request by my doctor. Well I had a lot of abnormal readings over the three pages. The one that stood out the most was the CPK. Basically, this number indicates when your body begins to eat muscle to survive. The goal is to be under 250 IU/L. Well the I had hit just over 5100 IU. He looked over at me and sternly said do not ever run over 26.2 miles again. I was crushed. <br />
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A few months later I ignored the advice and ran another 100 mile. This time I scored 3800 IU. Subsequently, each time I did another race my number continued to drop. In November 2011 now nine races later my test was just under 1900 IU. Yesterday I headed up to see my progress on improving the number yet another time. This bloodwork was for the Massanutten 100 just recently. We sat down and he looked up calmly stating, "I can't believe you." Now I am all nervous about what is going to happen. " Your CPK is 244," he replied. Shock to both of us!<br />
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After talking about the changes I made in training this year. He concluded that the personal training sessions were the source to moving the number so drastically. Each session was teaching my body how to handle those intense moments more efficiently. On top of that I had ran three 50 km races in the six weeks up to the blood test too.<br />
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Overall, I had an almost perfect three pages of results. The only metric I was abnormal was my red blood count that just missed the mark. So now it appears my body can not tell the difference from sitting around watching tv or running a 100 mountainous miles. I will choose to run any weekend over tv, lol.<br />
Thank you to Cytomax too. They have for four years help me improve my fueling during training and racing. <br />
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Here is the scientific breakdown of CPK:<br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3784533716297146034.post-78546529044352105882012-06-01T14:26:00.001-04:002012-06-01T14:26:08.471-04:00Summer camp is here!!<div><p>In 2010 I decided that I miss summer as a kid. So I created an imaginary running summer camp for myself. Each day or weekly I would send home mock letters to mom & dad. Well it is time for my third summer camp. Stay posted as I chronicle another summer of fun and running!</p>
<p>Gotta go time to get on the bus..</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8eX1Hvdq3eBUTOgM2t4vMkphTd_bi_mKjP9zRo8vH6zB-XXeyVs3OsrLtjicgCbhQhOQktnuHpLcbBFpl8-6RaP7oTAjXI2MAxseaCsi2l2L2csuvtOMnGaxSf_mepR80qnCnZvrMBY/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09449322356535046576noreply@blogger.com0