Rick's Pittsburgh Ultra Blog

Sicilian weather

2011-10-09T12:25:00.000-07:00

What a way to finish the race. Wayne is about half way done with the final marathon. The rain and wind are relentless. All the athlete's are having a very tough time staying warm. No one is dry. The wind is driving the rain sideways at times, and temperature has continued to drop since the sun went down a couple of hours ago. The usual celebration at the end of the race will not happen, as each finisher is in a rush to get to the hotel for a hot shower and dry clothes. Wayne should finish a little after midnight.

Final day at the deca

2011-10-09T09:32:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the late post today. The weather has us all scrambling to keep the athletes warm. It has been cold, windy and rainy all day. Luckily, my luggage showed up last night, so I have plenty of warm and waterproof clothes to dole out to those who need them. It is now about 6:30 in the evening and Wayne has just begun the final marathon of the race. The sun came out for about an hour, and then the clouds regained the upper hand and now there is a cold rain falling. This should make for a tough run. No worries though, even if it takes a bit longer, the race will be finished tonight. I am glad that we don't have to worry about getting all the gear dried out for tomorrow.
Kim Greisen from Denmark will be the overall winner. This will be his thirty-fifth Ironman distance race in a twelve month period, setting a new world record for the number of iron distance races in a year. That is a record I would not want to try and break. I will let you all know how the end turns out, right now I have to find some more dry clothes for Wayne.

Day nine of the deca

2011-10-08T09:37:00.000-07:00

All of the athletes are are starting to get excited about the conclusion of the race. Day eight went well, Wayne had reduced swelling in the lower leg and was able to run most of the marathon. He did back it down a bit so that days nine and ten would go smoothly. We expect rain every day, but did not get any, there was plenty of wind though. As I write this, Wayne is already out on the run on the ninth day. His 6:58 for the 112 mile course was his faster yet. This means if the run goes well, we will have another night with plenty of sleep. Only one more day to go after today, everyone is feeling the effects of the long race, it should be a good day on Sunday, rain or not.

Deca iron

2011-10-07T04:31:00.000-07:00

Today is the eighth day of the Deca iron race in Sicily. It is very windy on the course, but no rain is expected. I was sorry to hear that Kari Martens from Sweden had dropped from the race. The paddock area will be a little lonelier for the next few days as his crew is always fun to work with. Kari mentioned that his neck was too sore to continue. For those of you that know Kari, it is amazing that he was even able to start the race this year. He was hit by a car while riding his bike about a year ago, and almost died.
We had what I would consider a small miracle yesterday. After Wayne's right leg began to swell three days ago, we thought he would be reduced to walking the marathon each day. The Wednesday marathon was over eight hours! We changed from just compression sleeves to compression sleeves/socks, had Petra tape the front of the shin with kinesiotape, and started an Ibuprofen regimen. The result was great, he was able to knock two hours off the marathon on Thursday. Today, the swelling has subsided some and we hope he is able to run again this evening. Ice is still difficult to find, but we ice the leg when possible.
The double iron race began this morning. That should help by having more athletes on the course this evening. It gets lonely at night after the fast guys finish up.
With three days left, everyone's mood is getting brighter, the end is in sight.

Deca Iron Italy

2011-10-06T05:56:00.000-07:00

Greetings from rainy Sicily. Actually, the weather is quite pleasant. Sunny and warm, with afternoon, early evening thundershowers each day. We have had hail the past few days. Today is day seven of the Deca iron race and everyone appears to be moving a bit slower. Days six, seven and eight are the toughest for the racers.
The race started with 19 athlete's and as of today, seven have abandoned the competition. The top racers are very close, each doing about twelve hours for each day. Wayne started out very consistent, running in the fourteen hour range the first few days. A lower leg injury has slowed Wayne to a painful walk for each days marathon. The tendon sheathing is inflamed, making it difficult to walk or run. There is no ice anywhere in the village, so we have only ibuprofen to ease the pain. Today, Petra (our friend from Sweden) taped the lower leg and we will try compression socks once he exits the bike. In the pool we had to cut off the lower leg portion of his wetsuit, on the right side, because the leg was too swollen to get the suit on. Hopefully we can continue to get at least 3-4 hours of sleep.
The food is outstanding, each day the race volunteers outdo the previous day at lunch. The fresh fruit is also great. The only thing missing is a laundramat. We have to rinse our clothes out each day.
I arrived at the race on Sunday, today is Thursday, and I finally received word that my luggage was located, I may get it Friday. Now that I can get a blog out, I will try to update more frequently.

Deca Iron Report

2010-11-23T05:52:00.000-08:00

i finally found a minute to report from the double deca and deca iron races being held in Monterrey, MX. The races began on Sunday, Nov. 14th. This year, the format is continuous, all of the swim, then all of the bike, followed by the run. I arrived last Thursday and have been busy ever since. The continuous format places a lot of stress on the equipment, and I have been doing a lot of bike repairs, in addition to providing support for Wayne Kurtz. Wayne is competing in the deca iron triathlon, 24 miles of swimming, 1120 miles of cycling, and 262 miles of running (10 marathons). As of Tuesday morning, he has completed six marathons, only four more to go. These are the toughest though, as everything hurts. The weather has turned hotter, causing us to change strategy, running during the night and sleeping through the hotter part of the day. The course is a 1.2 mile loop, and the back side begins to get shady around 3:30 in the afternoon. We are sleeping a few hours before midnight, and then a few hours at noon, it seems to provide the best results. Although at this point, just moving is a win. As in past years, the main struggle is keeping Wayne eating. It is a constant struggle to keep up with the huge caloric expenditure. Christian, from France was the winner in the deca race, finishing in just under 20 hours, only about eight hours off of the world record. In the double deca, it is close at the top, with four men within a few hours of each other. They are still on the bike portion, with about 250 miles still to go. We are seeing lot of unusual bike problems. Gregor Sundin, from Sweden, had his rear derailluer shifter break, so we fixed the bike in a single gear so that he could continue to ride. Once he stops for a sleep break, I will try to get the shifter repaired. It may not be possible. The folks from Denmark have an entire team of Helpers, and we have borrowed a few things from them. They have a bike mechanic, but he took a few days off, so he is not around to help with repairs. They also posted some video from early in the race, you can see it by going to decatri.dk. It is all in their language, but look for the link on the page that has video in the word. Check out the swim video, with Gregor using only one arm, it had us all laughing.

Racing season has begun

2010-03-27T02:51:00.000-07:00

Now that the snow has melted it is time to get out and see what our winter base training has wrought. Our good friend Ted Ricci, who is now representing Pittsburgh in the great state of Texas, provided this race report from the Grasslands 50.
Here is a link to the results:
Grasslands Trail Run
(BTW, there is a runner named Freeman who DNF'd, obviously no relation : )

Last Saturday I participated in my second 50 mile event called The Grasslands Trail Runs( including 1/2 marathon, marathon, and 50 mile distances) put on by the North Texas Trail Runners. The races are billed as a good introduction for first time trail runners because of the gently rolling terrain of the course. The conditions this year made it anything but gentle. It had started raining heavily overnight. It was about 38 degrees at the start and still raining hard. It got colder as the day went on the rain turned into rounds of sleet and snow. I felt like I was home in good old PA rather than North Texas! The 7am start in the dark was tough because the trail was completely washed out. Runners were slipping and falling everywhere. Once it got light and the runners spread out, I was able to set into a deliberate pace. Due to the conditions it was impossible to run large sections of it. It was a mud fest. Brown mud, red mud, white mud, sandy mud, clay mud, soupy mud, rivers of mud. Variations of mud I had never seen before. The course was a series of loops that returned to the start/finish area. Almost every other runner would stop, take off their shoes and change their socks after each loop. I didn't bother. Due to bouts of frost bite early in my life, my feet are overly sensitive to the cold (just like Rick's description of what happened to Chuck at the Iditarod). My feet turned somewhat numb from the start which I have become accustomed to. Fortunately it did not get cold enough where I was at risk of losing any toes but it was cold enough to take the edge off where I couldn't tell how much mud had caked up in my shoes so it didn't bother me.

I must admit I had a few thoughts of just packing it up because of the ridiculous conditions. But I asked myself what would my ultra running mentors Rick and Dan do? They wouldn't quit! They would find a way to deal with the conditions and push on. After I determined to push on, I became concerned about making the cutoff. Fortunately I hooked up with a guy named Michael Terrel. He was an ex-military guy who had spent years on the Adventure Racing circuit so extreme conditions where up his alley. We worked together to make sure we made the cutoff. Once we did that, there was no doubt about finishing.

Around 84 people signed up for the 50 miler, only 70 bothered to start it, 7 finished --that's an amazing 90% failure rate!

Why do we do this? It is hard to describe to others the satisfaction we receive for persevering through extreme conditions. Am I ready to do the Laurel 70 miler? I don't know, but this race certainly went a long way to prepare me for it when I attempt it someday.

Happy running!

Great report Ted. You are always welcome to come and run the Laurel race.

Lou D. kicked off the local racing scene with the JC Stone 50k last weekend, and the Umstead, Bel Monte and Fools Run are this weekend, hopefully there will be some race reports to post from those events.

I talked with Tim Hewitt who just finished his fifth trip to Nome on the Iditarod Trail. He and Tom Jarding both beat the foot record there, with Tom knocking an amazing 1 1/2 days off the old record. Tim could not catch Tom this year. I try and get a post about the Iditarod later this weekend.

Iditarod Update

2010-03-07T02:56:00.000-08:00

One never knows what to expect along the Iditarod Trail and this year was no exception. The Pittsburgh folks started out strong, but the wet and warm trail conditions took there toll. Chuck had to scratch at mile 130, due to what he thought were blisters. Just dropping out of this race can be a nightmare. First he had to arrange a ride with a bush pilot from the Winterlake Lodge back to Anchorage. At the airport, all flights were booked solid for four more days, due to spring break in Anchorage. Chuck was able to find a compassionate airline worker who helped find a single seat on a plane to Seattle. Once in Seattle he got a flight back to Pittsburgh, via Chicago. All this on very sore feet. The doctor said frostbite was the reason for his pain, and that if he would have continued, he would have lost some toes. Go figure, the weather was almost balmy this year, but wet feet lower ones tolerance. That, and apparently he must have had a mild case of frostbite last year, and the tolerance got even lower. He is back home recovering after a disappointing run.

The others are still moving along the trail. Just before Chuck scratched, Tim went ahead of Loreen and Rick to try and catch up to Tom and Eric. Tim managed to catch Tom and Eric in Rohn, but then turned around and went back to make sure Loreen got over Rainy Pass and down through the Dalzell Gorge safely. There are spotty reports out of Rohn, so we will not know the whole story until after they finish the race. Rohn is nothing more than an airstrip and a log cabin in the Alaska Mtn. Range. It is only inhabited during the two weeks of the Iditarod. Tom and Eric finished in McGrath on Saturday morning, they had a very fast race. Tim, Loreen and Rick are now somewhere out on the Farewell Burn, we will not hear about them until they reach the village of Nicolai, probably sometime today. Word is that Tim has twisted an ankle, but we don't know how severe it is. The Farewell burn got its name after a large forest fire swept through the Farewell Lakes area years ago. It is 90 miles of open territory with numbing cold and strong winds. In years past, there was a bison camp where you could stop, rest and refuel. They were just a couple of walled tents, with a wood stove, but they were like a five-star hotel to us. This year, the tents are gone, so finding a safe, sheltered place to rest is very difficult. Once in Nicolai, they will be on the home stretch with just the 50 miles along the river to the finish in McGrath. Loreen is assured of being the first woman on foot to finish in McGrath, as the other woman dropped out of the race back at Finger Lake. Loreen will have to hurry if she wants to beat the course record she set back in 2008. Hopefully we will get a favorable report later today.

And They Are Off

2010-03-01T01:42:00.000-08:00

The 2010 version of the Iditarod Trail Invitational began Sunday, February 28th, beginning at Knik Lake Alaska. There will be many ways to keep up with the racers this year. Craig Medred from the Alaska Dispatch is reporting from along the course as he visits the various checkpoints. You can find him on Facebook and Twitter. There are also links to his reports on the Alaska Ultra Sport website. Craig's first Twitter report stated that the trail was blown away across Flathorn Lake, scattering the racers across a wide swath. Once across the lake they will cross the Dismal Swamp, then follow the Susitna and Yentna Rivers to the first checkpoint. The temperatures on the rivers can drop dangerously low with a constant headwind. Most will try to make it to the checkpoint without stopping.

There are reports of very little snow going over Rainy Pass and down through the Dalzell Gorge. The lack of snow means that there will be open water to negotiate if they can't get the ice bridges constructed. The ice bridges are made by putting down a base of branches which are then covered with snow, which then freezes solid enough to allow racers to cross. This portion of the course is very beautiful and is one of the reasons we are drawn back to compete every year. The racers will be treated to wildlife sightings, glaciers and ever changing trail conditions.

There is also very little snow across the Farewell Burn, which could mean up to ninety miles of pulling sleds across dirt and rocks. Of course, these conditions would be very good for the cyclists. As always, the conditions can change in a moment so we will have to wait and see what the racers encounter along the historic trail.

Spring can't be far

2010-02-27T03:36:00.000-08:00

With winter still hanging on in the Pittsburgh area, local ultrarunners have found many ways to cope during the recent record snowfalls. Folks traveled to Texas for the Rocky Raccoon 100, to Florida for the Lean Horse 100 and to North Carolina for a long training runs. The Pittsburgh area will once again be well represented at the Iditarod Trail Invitational with Tom Jarding and Tim Hewitt doing the full 1100 mile race. Loreen Hewitt will be attempting to lower the course record in the 350 mile race, a record that she already holds. Rick Brickley and Chuck Struble will also be competing in the 350 mile "fun run". Rich Cook will be in New York for the inaugural Beast of Burden 100 mile race. It looks interesting, and I have to admit, I thought about heading up there this weekend to do it.

The ultra running season gets underway locally in a few weeks with the J.C. Stone 50k in North Park. You can find race information on Facebook, and on Lou's race page. Just do a search for the jc stone 50k. I will be there helping out. If you are looking for a spring tune-up race, this a good one to do. It is a fairly flat course, run on good roads and has lots of support.

We are still snowshoeing a lot in Boyce/Mayview Park. We had the trails worked in well last week. Enough so that we could actually run on them. But the recent thawing and new snow have left them pretty rugged, so we will be out packing them down again this weekend.

Keep training hard during this inclement weather, you will be thankful you did once the days turn warm.

Arrowhead 135 - Race Report

2010-02-18T17:47:00.000-08:00

The Arrowhead 135 winter ultra began on Monday, February 1st in the city of International Falls, MN. I met up with Eric Johnson from Ogden, Utah at the MN/STP airport and we made the 300 mile plus drive up to the start on Saturday evening. After checking in we stopped by the hotel bar to chat with a few of the other racers who were hanging out that evening. We met a racer named John who was drinking few Jameson's. We saw him at the pre-race dinner on Sunday and he stated that he had a pretty good headache.

Sunday morning was spent preparing our gear, getting last minute supplies, eating, resting and finding our way around town. There is a mandatory gear check that everyone must attend, which was a new experience for me. While I have done the Alaska Ultra Sport twice, where they trust your judgment when it comes to gear and food, the Arrowhead requires a minimum amount of survival gear and food. The gear check went like an assembly line, you had to put all your gear on a table, then Don (the gear checker) would make sure that all of the required equipment was there before weighing it all. I threw my food bag into the bin at the last second, which was a good thing, since there is also a fifteen pound minimum. All tolled, my gear and food weighed in at seventeen pounds. Some of the required gear included a -20 rated sleeping bag, bivy sack, 3000 calories of food, a stove with 8 ozs. of fuel, reflective gear, blinking lights, whistle and matches. I got a chance to talk with Pierre, the race director, who designs tools for Park Bicycle Tool Co. and got some interesting insight as too how bike tools are designed. He even showed me the latest bike stand that he designed, it will be on the market soon. I also met Jon Storkamp, who had the foot division course record prior to the 2010 race. He had a lot of good information to share.

After the gear check we all headed over the the VFW where the pre-race meeting and dinner were held. The city of Int. Falls was really happy to have the race start there, and the Mayor, Chamber of Commerce President and a city council member all welcomed us to their fine city. We even got a cool Int. Falls pin that read "The Nations Icebox" which I eventually misplaced. There were the typical pre-race announcements, don't litter, look out for wolves and moose, keep your number visible, you all know what that is like.

The Monday morning start was pretty typical for an ultra race, every bike and sled in the pre-dawn parking lot had blinking red lights fore and aft, it looked like Christmas in the lot. The temps were around minus 20 degrees, with a clear sky, almost full moon and no wind, perfect conditions for racing. We let the bikers lead us out from the start and it did not take long for the field to string out along the trail. The trail itself was a route that is groomed for snowmobile use, about twenty feet wide, smooth and packed. The state grooms almost two thousand miles of these trails throughout the state. One can ride their snowmobile from town to town, stopping to sleep, eat, shop or anything else you can think of.

The first checkpoint was at thirty five miles, and was a general store/gas station along the road. I reached it in just over ten hours and stopped to enjoy some hot food, refill my Camelbak and talk with some of the many racers. The place was total chaos, there were racers lying in all of the aisles, resting, eating, drying out their clothes and deciding whether to abandon the race. I think many folks underestimated the requirements of a winter ultra. Many were waiting for their clothes to dry in the dryer that the store had for our use, while debating how they might fare without the luxury of a dryer later on. I got a chance to talk with Marco, who won the Badwater 135 in 2009, he did not speak English, and I did not speak Portuguese, but we were able to communicate a little bit in Spanish. I do know that he was cold.

After twenty minutes or so, it was time to get moving, as the sun was down and the temperature was dropping fast. I wanted to get out and get moving before it got too cold. I was somewhat surprised to encounter hills after leaving the checkpoint, I thought that Minnesota was flat. I later found out that the hills would continue from thirty five miles all the way to the one hundred fifteen mile mark. I hoped to make the halfway checkpoint at Melgeorges resort in another twelve hours, but the hills and need for sleep got the better of me. There were shelters along the trail that were spaced about ten miles apart and they made good bivy spots for us. They were just three sided structures with a roof and a place to build a fire if needed. I found an empty shelter with a fire going and decided to take my first rest break of the race. It was about midnight and I decided to just do a "shiver-bivy" or "shivabiv" as Eric called it. Instead of getting into my sleeping bag, I would just put on my down coat and sleep by the fire until it died down and I would wake when I started to shiver. This was a good plan, except instead of just shivering, both of my calves cramped, awakening me to much pain. I quickly set off so that I could warm up and stretch my legs. The shivabiv lasted about an hour, so later in the night I began to fall asleep while walking. I came upon another shelter which had a nice fire going and lots of folks sleeping. I was going to stop and sleep, but when I asked how far to the checkpoint, the answer was "about eight miles". I decided to keep moving and sleep at the checkpoint. After another hour, I came across some snowmobiles who were busy transporting racers who had abandoned the race, they told me is was still another ten miles to the checkpoint. Since I was sleepwalking a lot, I decided to take five minute naps instead of stopping to sleep. I finally arrived at the checkpoint just after dawn on Tuesday.

The second checkpoint was a nice cabin at Melgeorges Resort on Elephant Lake. It was warm, comfortable and busy. There were people coming and going constantly. I tried to sleep upstairs, but the din of the many folks downstairs kept me from actually falling asleep. After about forty-five minutes I decided to take my leave and just sleep on the trail if need be. I got something hot to eat from the kitchen, refilled my food bag from the drop bag we had there and headed out. I found myself traveling with Doug from South Africa, Carles from Spain, and one of the skiers for the next few hours. All were strong racers and we made good time as the day was calm and the trail was fast. As the sun went down on Tuesday, I caught up to Jim O'Brien who told me he was not feeling well, had not been able to keep food or water down, and was now getting cold. It sounded like a sure case of hypothermia setting in so I offered him my down coat, as he already had all of his extra clothing on. The map indicated that there was a shelter coming up in a few miles and I told him I would go ahead and get a fire started there. He arrived at the shelter just a few minutes after me, we realized that the fire pit was not in front of the shelter, so we just went without a fire and set up inside the shelter. Jim decided that he was going to withdraw and get a ride out. Doug arrived at the same time and we tried to talk Jim out of quitting, saying that he still had plenty of time to get in his sleeping bag and try to rehydrate. He insisted that he would not be able to make it. I don't know why, but I had my cellphone with me. We called the Crescent Bar, which had an advertisement on the back of the map and they said it would be about an hour before someone could reach us. Doug and I decided to take the opportunity to sleep while we waited for the snowmobile to pick Jim up. Once we were on our way again, Doug and I began to catch many of the other foot division racers. We passed six or seven racers during the next twenty miles. Sleep deprivation again got the better of me and I had to stop and rest for another hour before the TeePee checkpoint. Doug went on ahead, and I only caught sight of him again coming out of the checkpoint.

Just before the final checkpoint, the course dropped out of the hills and across a swamp, where the temperature dropped below minus twenty. I stopped at the checkpoint only long enough to refill my Camelbak for the final twenty miles. I wanted to keep moving while it was still dark and would sleep a little just before the sun came up. I made the last critical turn and headed for the finish. The final few miles passed quickly as there were signs along the trail for lodges, restaurants and of course the casino, where we would be finishing. I arrived at the finish in 11th place in the foot division and was escorted into the casino hotel where the race had a hospitality room for the competitors. There were 45 starters in the foot division, of which 19 finished. Marco, whom I met at the first aid station, finished a few hours behind me, just goes to show how much of a factor the weather can be.

The Arrowhead 135 is a great race, especially for someone who would like to get winter ultra running experience. While the low temperatures remain a constant danger, there is plenty of support along the trail and race management keeps tabs on every racer along the course. There were snowmobiles patrolling the course at all hours. This is one race I will return to do again.

Arrowhead 135

2010-02-05T06:16:00.000-08:00

Just returned home after racing the 2010 Arrowhead 135 winter ultra. The race began in International Falls, MN and ended near the town of Tower, MN. This was my first attempt at this race, and I finished 11th in the foot division. I traveled with Eric Johnson from Utah, who finished 2nd in the foot division. We enjoyed the warm hospitality of the folks in International Falls, and all along the trail. I will add a race report and some pictures after I get my gear and my thoughts organized.

January Ultra

2010-01-19T16:39:00.000-08:00

A few folks from Steeler Nation took a road trip to Cleveland this past weekend to run the Race for Regis, formerly know as the Winter Buckeye 50k. Tanya Cady designed a new course, with a new start pavilion, and we were not disappointed. The format was similar to the old run, multiple loops of five and eight miles. This made for some tough running as the trail softened up under the feet of a few hundred runners. There was plenty of ice at the beginning, creating quite a bottleneck within the first mile. After those of us with spikes in our shoes got through the icy section, the trail thinned out and made for a nice day of winter running. The aid stations were well stocked and manned by upbeat volunteers. I wasted quite a bit of time, stopping to talk at each aid station, mostly answering questions about the course changes at Laurel this year. Actually, it was nice not to have to worry about running fast, as Chuck and I were using this as a training run for our upcoming arctic ultra's. I did not get to chat with all of the folks from Pittsburgh, but saw Mike F., Michelle W., Dan and Sharon S., along with Eric G. and a few others. We were not able to stay around long after the finish as we had things to do at home. As usual, I wore my Steeler gear and took a bit of ribbing from the Cleveland folks. It was all in good fun and I certainly look forward to racing against those guys. Many will return the favor by wearing their Browns gear at the J.C. Stone race in a few months.

Pierre Oster sent a link to an article about the Arrowhead race, you can view it here: Arrowhead 135

I have started updating the website for the Laurel Highlands Ultra. We have decided to keep it a point-to-point race, with a detour of about six miles to get across the PA Turnpike. We have been talking with the Park Manager and hope to get the DCNR to designate the detour as an official trail detour. If we can get it designated as such, then it saves us from having to get all the special use permits for the road section. For those of you who have signed the petition and have called or written to our state representatives, I thank you. And please, keep the pressure on the state to get the bridge replaced. It will take a few years to get it done, but it will be worth it.

We also have added a three person team relay race to the 50k race at Laurel. We hope this will encourage more folks to give trail running a try. Check out the Laurel Ultra website for more details.

Don't forget about our next fun run, the Mingo Mingle coming up in a few weeks. Dave and Sarah Micklo will be hosting this fun run and it will be a lot of fun. We will be starting at one of the pavilions in Mingo Creek County Park. I will update the GPS coordinates when Dave verifies which pavilion we will be using. We will have a generator and stove there to heat up some food, so bring something to share with the rest of the runners. And don't forget to bring some warm clothes to change into after the run so you can stay comfortable while telling a few stories about the trails.

We are also adding another fun run to the growing list, a trail run in March at Raccoon Creek Park. Jon Gift will be our host and I will add a webpage with directions and more information as soon as I get time.

Don't let the cold weather keep you all indoors, winter is the best time to get outside and lay down the base training for the racing season ahead. If you learn to handle adverse winter conditions, then showing up at the start of a race when it is cold and rainy will not be an issue.

Recover From The Holidays Recap

2010-01-05T17:51:00.000-08:00

Our annual fun run is becoming quite a tradition as 75 folks came out on a cold and blustery day to start the new year and new decade. The temps were in the low teens all day with plenty of ice on the trails. Don, Ken, Chuck, Mark and I were out on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday to mark the course. We wanted to find a way to eliminate the asphalt portions of the course and Don succeeded. We had the Boyce/Mayview park pavilion as the run headquarters, and people brought all manner of food and drink for everyone to enjoy. Jeff Bowden was not feeling well enough to run, but he braved the cold for five hours as he staffed the start area, serving food and hot beverages to cold and tired runners. Cam Baker brought a torpedo heater which was put to good use. With the cold temperatures leading up to the event, we anticipated a low turnout, but we were pleasantly surprised by the number of runners who showed up. I guess a fun run with some friends trumps cold, snowy weather. Bob and Jim from Youngstown and a few other folks from Ohio made the trip east and had a fun time. Those of us who brought warm clothes were able to hang around and wait for everyone to finish, which ended up being about eight and one-half hours, when Don K. and Sue W. finally reached the pavilion. Our next fun run will be the Mingo Mingle in February. The info can be found at laurelultra.com/mingo_mingle.htm. I will send out a reminder as it gets a little closer.

I finished putting the finishing touches on my Arrowhead 135 sled and got out for a test run with the complete gear kit that I will be using in Minnesota. Everything worked perfectly, now I just have to finish working on the motor and I will be set for the race which begins on Feb. 1.

We are having a meeting on Sunday to decide what course will be run at Laurel this year. There has been a lot going on this week with respect to the bridge closing. We should have more answers after the meeting and I will post an update early next week.

Laurel Hiking Trail update

2009-12-26T03:06:00.000-08:00

There was an article in the Post-Gazette this morning describing the bridge situation along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. If any of you have contact with your state representatives', now is the time to catch their ears.

Post Gazette article

If you have any questions or comments about the affect on the Laurel Race, please contact Tim, Loreen or myself.

See you all next week as we kick off the new year with the
Recover from the Holidays 50k fun run.

Winter training

2009-12-20T01:44:00.000-08:00

Winter is in full swing in Western PA after a snow storm left us with about six inches of new snow. Many local ultra folks are out on their snowshoes and cross-country skis, enjoying a different type of workout. This is the time of year when I typically take a break from racing and use the time to build or re-build an aerobic base. The weather is never a hinderance, just another obstacle to overcome. After training in winter, inclement weather in a race later in the year is not an issue because it is something that I am accustomed to.

Last week, a few of us ran the Laurel Trail between miles eleven and nineteen. While freezing rain was shutting down Pittsburgh for a few hours in the morning, we were happily making our way along a snow covered trail. There was an icy crust just beneath the top layer of snow, but the rain soon softened up the ice and the run became even more enjoyable. The streams were running at a normal level with ice around the edges. The Mountain Laurel and Rhododendrens added a little color. It was picture postcard perfect.

My training for the Arrowhead 135 is going well. Although with the holidays approaching I am sure to have a few days where eating will trump going for a run. I tested out my new, smaller, lighter sled and it worked well. I also made a new set of light weight bindings for the Dion Snowshoes. They will get the first test today as we go out and decide on the final course for the Recover From the Holidays 50k. Don't forget, we are hosting the fun run on Jan. 2, 2010. Here is a link to the page if anyone wants to join us. USC 50k.

I received an e-mail from the Park Manager about the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. As most of you know, there is a bridge that carries the trail over the PA Turnpike at about the 37 mile mark. On this Thursday past, the state closed the bridge due to structural deficiencies. Is it unclear at this time what exactly is going to happen. The park service will keep me posted as more information is gathered. The bridge is used year round and gets heavy use from the local snowmobilers, so I am sure they will be asking a lot of questions also. If anyone has access to additional information please let me know. This could have a real impact on the Laurel Highlands Ultra if the bridge stays closed for an extended period. As most of you know, this type of expense is usually at the bottom of the list when it comes to getting state funds for repair. We have already discussed having to change the 70.5 mile course (the 50k will not be impacted), one of them being an out-and-back. It would add a new element, running miles 1 through 8 in reverse, especially in the dark. Let me know your thoughts when I see you on the trails.

Time to go strap on the snowshoes and enjoy the season.

Deca Iron Race Report

2009-11-28T08:16:00.000-08:00

Photo by Benoit Beauchamp, official photographer at the Deca-Iron race.

Here is Waynes' race report from the Deca-Iron race in Monterrey, Mexico:

Race Re-Cap 2009 DECA Iron Triathlon
November 9-19th

24 Miles swimming - 760 laps in the 25 meter pool
1112 miles biking – 930 laps on the bike loop
262 miles running – 220 loops on the run loop

Total time 141:28:26
5th Overall

Jan (wife and partial crew) and I arrived in Monterrey on Nov. 5th. There was a sense of anticipation and nervous energy as we met with all our friends, athletes, and crews from around the globe. It is a family atmosphere that makes these races so special. After the mandatory blood tests and final rule descriptions we all attended the grand opening ceremony hosted by the local media, (the BBC was filming as well) at a large hotel in Monterrey (downtown).

The opening ceremony included introduction of the athletes along with a huge buffet with mariachi bands. It was the last time for everyone to have fun and relax before the stress two days later with the beginning of the race.

The field was stacked, including Matej (Slovenia), Pascal (France), Ference (Hungary) and Kari (Sweden) all looking to do well and secure enough points for the World Cup points championship. My goals were to: 1. Finish the race 2. Run well (second part of each marathon) as I know many would go out too fast and consistency would be my key race strategy.

We spent the day Sunday (day before the race) buying more food and supplies from the grocery store so we had everything possible and not have to waste time later while the race was under way. I was nervous for sure, which is always a good sign for me.

Race Day!
We awoke to a nice sunny 65 degree morning and all the athletes met at the race transition area for body weight analysis and drop off urine samples. This process was completed every morning and after the race to provide a report for all athletes that illustrated the effect of fat loss, dehydration, and muscle mass and body weight. As a group we all rode to the University swimming pool. I felt like I had a rock in my stomach and tried to calm my nerves down! I was matched with Peter Cusick from London in my lane and it was finally game time as we all jumped in the water. Jorge gave us the signal to “go” and we were off on the start of this 10 day adventure.

As I expected, many racers went very hard on day one and I focused on holding back and staying within myself which was difficult, but in the end became the perfect strategy for me.

There were the normal up’s and down’s each day from day 2-7 including unbelievable heat (95 degrees and over 100 in the direct sun), brutal warm water in the pool which was 87 degrees (imagine how hot it was wearing a wetsuit – felt like being in a sauna and made you nauseous). Every day, I told myself to focus on never getting off the bike– no matter what and how tough it would be. This strategy was huge for me as many racers would stop and take some time off the saddle to eat, recover, etc. I have been racing 24 years but don’t remember many races with the heat we had for those couple days. My goal each day was to stay consistent for the day in all the sport disciplines. It became difficult to hold back, and then all of a sudden many athletes started dropping out, dropping way back on the run and then the injuries started for many athletes. I continued to push the last ½ of each marathon and was able to put significant time on many of the athletes and my confidence continued to grow each day. I was experiencing normal foot blisters and saddle sores, but nothing compares to some of the medical issues other’s were facing on a daily basis.

My second Super-Crew – Rick Freeman was instrumental in driving me to keep eating more and more food. My base food consisted of Hammer products and Perpeteum being the main fuel. However, throughout the bike, I ate pounds of Mexican beef, chicken, sandwiches, nutella and an assortment of “real” food for extra calories and taste. It worked to perfection and one item that became an ongoing joke between Rick and me was that on one loop I asked for Beef with Ice chips. As you can imagine, when he and all the crew heard that, there were plenty of “Did he say, beef with ice?” It was so hot and it tasted like heaven.

(editors note: this became know as "icy beef")

Day 8 – Day 9

These two days were especially tough mentally and physically as I had a fever, sweats, and bad cold. I did not get much sleep during these days as the fever occurred both evenings and felt horrible for the swim and bike disciplines. My goals changed and it was all about “holding it together” and get to Day 10 with the hope that I would feel better to finish strong on the run.

Day 10

It was hard to believe that we all (10 remaining athletes out of the 18 starters) were lining up for our last ride over to the pool. There was a ton of excitement in the air and we all discussed what it’s going to feel like when we would cross the finish line for the last time (but still had a full Ironman left!!). I took it steady all day and could not wait to get off the bike and onto the last discipline of running. I decided to run the whole marathon with no walking with the goal of finishing strong. I was still feeling under the weather, but the run went well and the final lap had arrived. Rick gave me the U.S.A. flag and of course a Pittsburgh Steelers terrible towel to wave as I came through the finish line. Rick had the song Renegade by Styx (huge Pgh. Steelers song) wired into the speakers and I saw the finish line. Emotionally, it was like no other race in my life. I sprinted (pulled my left hamstring at the finish line) and screamed all the way through the finish line. I was mobbed by all the other racers, crews, race volunteers, photographers, etc. and had beer squirted and poured over my head (of course it kept my tears hidden). I took a 16 oz can and chugged it in record time and it was amazing how wonderful it tasted at that point. Emotionally, I was exhausted and could not believe it was finally over. As everyone finished, it was the same emotions and joy and the family atmosphere was at its best.

We all waited at the finish line and partied with wine, rum, tequila, etc. to cheer on the remaining racers still on the marathon course. I will never forget the memories of the finish and celebrating with all the athletes. It was the race of my life and still pinch myself that I actually completed this massive race.

The best feeling occurred when several of the veteran DECA Ironman athletes told me that I was very mentally strong throughout the race and I am now “A DECA IRONMAN” and part of a very select group of athletes around the world. That’s when it sunk in!

I can’t thank all the support especially when I had a couple days between crew when Jan left and Rick arrived. Paetra (Kari’s wife) and Angela (Peter’s wife) were unbelievable and treated me like their own family – providing all the necessary food, supplies, etc.

A big congratulation to all the finishers and Ference for a tremendous race and overall IUTA Series winner!

MEMORIES FOR A LIFETIME!

141:28.26

2009-11-19T06:19:00.000-08:00

You can see results and pictures at the following websites:

Deca Iron results

Multisport website

Deca Iron Final Day

2009-11-18T11:39:00.000-08:00

Just a quick update from the race. Everyone took it easy in the swim, and all were glad that they will not be returning to the pool. One guy did not like the way his wetsuit was fitting, so he stopped and ripped the sleeves off it. The weather is just perfect. Temps in the low seventies, plenty of sun, and a slight breeze. You can feel the excitement in the air as the support crews go about their daily routines. A few have gone to the store to get supplies for a long night of celebration.

There should not be much movement in the overall standings. Wayne is in fifth place, with an eleven hour total lead over sixth place. I will update after the bike tonight.

Last Day

2009-11-18T05:28:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the break, the internet connection was down last night. Wayne caught a cold and slowed a bit but his sprits are not dampened. He finished about an hour slower than the past few days. Similar to the Tour de France, the standing are pretty well set, and they should not change on the last day.

We had a busy day on Tuesday, helping with a few problems. We had to readjust peters cycling cleats a couple of times. Then he got his ipod stolen, so I lent him mine. He actually liked my musci selection. Gregor had a shoe problem, so we cut away some of the material so all of his toes would fit. Seems everyone had a small issue or two, but everyone worked through them to finish. Beant wanted to win yesterday and finished teh bike only 3 minutes behind Ferenc. He began the run well, then his knee gave out and he was reduced to walking to the finish.

Check in later.

Almost Home

2009-11-17T11:40:00.001-08:00

Monday ended up a tough day for many of the competitors. The weather was perfect for racing, but the fatigue showed on the faces of most. Ferenc finished in a amazing time of 11:20, with Benat about ten minutes behind. Pascal was over an hour back today, due to a slower bike ride.

Today began rainy and cool. Greger was again first out of the pool, followed by Benat. Benat has been sneaking up on the leaders and may be able to shake up the standings with a good race today. The support area was quiet, as crews struggled to keep things dry and warm. It is about 1:45 p.m. and the sun has just come out, so the remainder of the day should be good. Like a baseball pitcher who is throwing a no-hitter, no one wants to talk much about today or tomorrow, lest we jinx the athlete`s. Greger continues to amaze, as he is strong in the swim and on the bike, then walking an eight hour marathon each day. He refuses to be discouraged.

We thought everyone would be excited about this being the next to the last day, with the end in sight. Perhaps this afternoon, the moods will lighten, as it warms up.

I had to modify Peter Cusicks cycling shoes, as his achilles continued to tighten up. He had a spasm while riding to the swim start, and was worried about it locking up later in the day. We moved his cleat back to transfer the power more to his quads and less to his calves. So far, he has said that it is working.

The strategy today is to make sure Wayne eats more than enough, so he will stay strong for two more days. He is having no real problems, other than a little tired during the run. I am sure that his legs are aching, but he has not told me so. With the cooler weather, it is no problem staying hydrated. His feet were swollen a bit this morning, but seemed better after the swim, hopefully he will not have to wear the bigger shoes. I should be able to check in later this evening.

It`s a Great Day for Triathlon

2009-11-16T15:47:00.000-08:00

Monday evening and all is going better than expected. The cooler temps have restored good moods to most of the athlete`s. The bike times are very close, with Benat, from Spain, having an excellent ride. Ferenc is leading by a comfortable margin, with Pascal second. Greger was second off the bike, but lost time again while in the medical tent getting his ankle tended to. Ferenc, Pascal and Benat are all running fast, which should make for an exciting finish tonight. Wayne rode conservatively, and will hopefully nail down a good run. Peter had a better ride today and will certainly put more time on Wayne in the run, as he is very fast. All of the support crews are bundling up for a cold night.

Deca Iron Day 8

2009-11-16T10:16:00.000-08:00

Sunday was a tough day for all of the racers. The temperatures were near ninety degrees with very little wind throuhgout the day. Ferenc still managed to do 11:37 on the day. Wayne said that the bike ride was very hard and decided to take it easy on the run so he would not be too tired for the following days. We thought that he may have been able to gain a little time on Peter, but Peter had a great run and gained almost teh entire advantage that Wayne had built during the bike ride. I dropped in on Peter and his wife while the medical folks were working on his toe. The Dr. said that he was to stop back to the tent every one and one-half hours so they could check his toe. At one point they stated that they may have to pull him from the race if it got too bad. The word spread fast the the medical tent was to be avoided at all costs, as they obviously have not seen such a determined bunch of athlete`s. No one will drop if they can still walk. Gregor is the amazing one, he is usually first out of the water and first off the bike. He then tapes a few bags of ice to his shin and ankle and proceeds to walk/limp through the marathon. There is never any talk of quitting.

Today it is much cooler, with partially cloudy skies and a stiff breeze. Good for the runners, a little cool for the support crews. Wayne is feeling good, and staying well fueled. Gotta go.

Day 7 at the Deca Iron

2009-11-15T10:31:00.000-08:00

The sixth day had a few twists, but it looks as though everyone is still doing well. Pascal and Ferenc are battling for the top spot, and both are running extremly well. Gregor has had good swims and bikes, but continues to be plauged by a sore ankle. He does look a bit better today, though. He has had to walk the marathon for the past two days, grimacing through each lap. Peter, from England is having trouble with a blister under one of his toes. It is causing him much pain, and the medical staff has refused to drain it. They will tend to it once it drains naturally. In an effort to help Peter on the bike, we modified one of his cycling shoes by cutting away part of the toebox, this seems to be helping. Wayne is eating and drinking beyond expectations and it is paying off with more consistency. His times vary little each day and he still has energy left. He will decide later in the race if he has to turn it up a notch. He has a fairly good lead over Keri, and is still a few hours behind Peter in the overall standings. With his consistent finishes, he may be able to move up if anyone falters. I have trouble getting on the computer, as there are many kids here that sit and play games on them all day. I hate to be the bully and tell them to stop. The weather is still hot, but Monday may be a little cooler. We are hoping for a little cloud cover.
Will check in later.

Hola! from sunny Monterrey

2009-11-14T10:26:00.000-08:00

It will probably take me a day to get organized, but here is the current scoop. More racers abandoned in the last two days. I think we are down to ten, who are still in the running. A few who have abandoned are still competing on their own schedules. Suraya and Arthur are racing every other day. Yves is out, but did try to continue. He was in the pool today when he began having trouble breathing. Not sure what may have happened, but the doctors had him out of the pool and were checking him. The early leader, Matej is also out, leaving Pascal as the current leader. The mood was somewhat somber before the start today, as everyone expected a great race between Matej and Pascal. Wayne is still very consistent and continues to move up the leader board. I am sure that the arrival of the Terrible Towel will help during the next few days. Wayne`s times continue to be just under fourteen hours for each race. The weather today is very hot, expected to get into the high eighties during the day. There is a slight breeze, which helps the support folks, but I am not sure how it effects the athletes. The race venue has been repaved, providing a smooth ride for the cycling portion of the race. I will check in later.

Deca Iron day 4

2009-11-13T02:08:00.000-08:00

Ho..Hum, another consistent race for Wayne on day four. He finished in 13:53 and is steadily moving up the leader board. I will get the cumulative totals on Saturday so you can all see where is overall. The top men are also putting in consistent efforts and show no signs of slowing. I talked with Wayne's wife Jan, as she is back home, and Wayne was in good spirits, which is the key to the race. There are many folks there that will help him until backup arrives tonight.

If you look at the results page, you will notice other races going on at the same time. Marcel, who won the deca last year, is doing fifty (50) olympic distance triathlons in ten days. Silvia Andonie, the race directors wife, is doing ten (10) half-ironman races in ten days. Silvia is unbelievable, she once did a double deca-iron race. That's right, twenty iron races in a row. Arthur Puckin, 72 years young, from England, is doing an iron race every other day, so he will have five in at the end. Giselle Andonie, the race directors daughter, is doing an olympic distance race every day. I am not sure what Suraya is going to complete, and it looks like Michael Gaertner is back on the course. I will try to get the scoop this weekend.

I will next be reporting live from sunny Monterrey.

Deca Day Three

2009-11-12T02:00:00.000-08:00

Wayne had another solid day of racing, finishing in 13:47. Knocking out one Iron distance race in under 14 hours is tough enough, doing it for three straight days is incredible. This also allows him to get much needed rest each day. Jan had to leave so Wayne is on his own today and most of Friday. The race at the top has not changed much, Matej is still burning up the course each day. Ferenc seems to have found a groove early, Benat I do not know, but appears to be someone to watch. Keri has slowed a bit on the run, but that may have been a one day hitch. Yves, from Canada had a real good race on Wednesday, he may have just been warming up the first two days. Yves' brother Ben is there as the race photographer. If you go to the Multisport.MX website, you can see many of Ben's pictures online. I had to find a set of pedals to take to one of the racers, and Jan is having electrolytes and Hammer Fuel overnighted so I can take it with me. We are pretty lucky to have all this stuff so readily available to us here in the United States. I will not get any first hand reports Thursday or Friday, so the next post may not be until Saturday. Hasta Manana.

Iron Update

2009-11-11T01:43:00.000-08:00

Wayne had another good day on Tuesday, he finished in 13:43. There are no problems to report yet, let's hope it stays that way. The weather was overcast and a bit cooler.

Matej is still leading and is the odds on favorite to win. However, there is word that his father, who is crewing for him, is ill. Not sure what will happen, but the support crews are very important to each athlete (had to get a shameless plug in).

Suraya Oliver, the lone female in the race, has abandoned. She did not get in the water on Tuesday, finishing the first day at 4:45 Tuesday morning, which only left her a few hours of rest.

Karoly Breurer-Orban of Hungary has also abandoned, due to stomach illness.

Michael Gaertner of Germany, walked the entire marathon on Tuesday. This usually happens later in the race. He is one tough competitor and I am sure he will rally. He has won this race in the past, so he knows what it takes to stay the course. Many racers tell stories of having at least one "blow-up" day during the event. Perhaps Michael is getting his blow-up day out of the way early.

Just a reminder, the race format this year requires one to finish an iron distance race each day. If you do not finish before the next day's start, you are DQ'd. In the continuous format, which is used in alternate years, each racer decides when to rest, and there is no penalty, other than the clock keeps ticking. The continuous format allows you to take an entire day off if you want. In the daily format, this is not the case. Things will surely get interesting as the week wears on.

Deca Iron Day 2

2009-11-10T15:02:00.000-08:00

Wayne was able to get about six good hours of rest last night. He raced a little too fast on the first day, but I guess everyone is like that as they get a feel for the pace. He hopes to slow by about one hour in today's event. Jan will be returning home tomorrow, leaving Wayne to his own devices for a couple of days. Keri's wife and son will help, along with a local triathlete that is there to lend neutral support to many of the athlete's. Keri seems to be having some bike problems and has had to have the local mechanic look at his rear wheel, he is really tough on his equipment. Once you see him race, you know why, that guy can hammer the bike.

It turns out that the cause of Beat's accident was a collision with a duck. There are many ducks in the park and sometimes they wander out into the road. I remember last year, Jorje, the race director, warned everyone that the ducks had the right of way. What a terrible way to have your race end.

Jan was able to get to a local market and picked up peanut butter, and ham/cheese for Wayne. Tonight she is getting pizza delivered. For the most part, the pizza in Mexico is the same as the pizza we get at home, except they like to put ketchup on it. Go figure, at least they use Heinz ketchup.

I have learned a little more Spanish this year, but I think I will try to get them to speak Pittsburgh-ese instead. What do yinz guys think?

It is about 5:20 in Monterrey as I post this report, and Wayne is just beginning today's marathon. I trust that he will keep it nice and steady, saving a little energy for the days to come.

Injury update

2009-11-10T02:20:00.000-08:00

Jan did get back to me last night, but I was busy watching the Steeler game. She said that Beat K. did indeed break his collarbone. What an unfortunate turn of events for Beat, as he had to abandon the race. Wayne had a good day, and will get a fair amount of rest before today's start. Don't forget to check the race website for updates throughout each day.

Deca Iron Begins

2009-11-09T15:09:00.000-08:00

The Deca Iron race in Monterrey, Mexico began this morning a little after 9:00 a.m. They are in the central time zone, so they are one hour behind us. Jan reported in that everyone was doing fine until the early leader (his name is Beat Knechtle) from Switzerland fell and broke his shoulder. The medical team is working on him, but a broken shoulder will probably make continuing a tough task. I will let you know as soon as I hear anything.

The race has a webpage where you can view the progress of each of the participants, you can find it here:
Multisport mx

Eric G. sent me the link to the article about Wayne, the address is:
North Hills News

Wayne is racing at a conservative pace so he can make it through the ten days. Jan says the food is good and has sampled many of the local items available. There is a concession type building on the course, and local folks take turns cooking home made Mexican cuisine. I am looking forward to eating great during my stay later in the race.

If you have Google Earth the coordinates for the start finish line are 25 42 52.07N and 100 18 53.18W you will see the start line pavilion and you can see the road that circles the park. The athlete's circle that road many times as it is just 1.9 kilometers around. The swim venue is a few kilometers away and they ride to the park with an escort after exiting the pool each day.

I heard that Ben from Canada is there taking pictures, I will try to get his website address so you can view his pictures.

Deca Iron Tri

2009-11-08T17:46:00.000-08:00

It is Sunday evening and I am just as excited as Wayne for the Deca Iron race in Monterrey, Mexico. I heard from Wayne and Jan today and they both have pre-race nervous energy. I will post race results as they are forwarded to me, until later in the week, when I get to the race. I am looking forward to an exciting 10 days.

There was an article about Wayne in the North Hills edition of the Trib on Thursday, but I can't seem to find it online. If anyone has the address, please let me know and I will put up a link to it.

Cindy Sanchas did the Stone Steps 50k in Cincy last week. This was her first race since having knee surgery in June. Four months from surgery to a 50k, I wish we could all heal that fast.

This is probably the last weekend of long runs for those of you doing the JFK50 in a couple of weeks. Don't forget to let me know how you all did, and send me your race reports.

Lastly, you can all make plans for our fun runs in 2010. The dates have been set for the first two. The info can be found at:

www.laurelultra.com/usc50.htm
www.laurelultra.com/mingo_mingle.htm

I will be posting reminders every week or so. The usc50 will be on the first Saturday of the new year.

Winter race update

2009-11-01T15:57:00.000-08:00

Since I will not be doing the Alaska Ultra Sport in 2010 I was looking for a target race during the winter. I decided to run the Arrowhead 135 in Minnesota. I talked with Eric Johnson about the race (he won the foot division last year) and he had many positive things to say about it. This will give me a race to focus on during the coming winter months.

We had a sled building party at the Hewitt's on Halloween. Chuck, Loreen, Tim and Rick B. all fabricated new sleds for the Alaska race. I still like the sled that I made last year, but after seeing the finished products, I may have to tweak my design a little. There is something cool about doing one of the toughest races there is and pulling all of your survival gear on a sled that you made yourself. Here are a couple of pictures of the sleds. You may notice there were plenty of adult beverages on hand to make the process more difficult. That is Chuck and Tim in the picture above. No doubt Tim was telling one of his Iditarod stories to Chuck. You would not believe some of the things he has experienced along the trail. It will be tough watching the race next year from the sidelines, it truly is a race that can not be described. Tim's sled, named "Cookie", is the one in the middle of the picture below. It has pieces of black velcro on it to hold the cover. It is tradition to name your sled. Sometime when any of you have a chance to run with me, you can ask me about the trail into Skwentna, it is an amusing story about "Cookie". We used it as a template for the other sleds, but made a few small changes.

Only a week to go before Wayne Kurtz gets started at the Deca Iron race in Mexico. Waynes' wife Jan will be there to crew for him the first few days. I will arrive on Friday the 13th to crew for him through the finish. Look for an article about him in the Trib North later this week. I post a link to it, when I find it. I am getting excited about the Deca, even though I am not racing it. Make sure you wish Wayne well if you see him this week. I will be posting reports from beautiful downtown Monterrey once I arrive on site.

As always, let me know what races you folks are doing and I will be sure to get your reports on the blog.

Jeff Gleason's Oil Creek 100 Race Report

2009-10-14T02:04:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I ran the inaugural Oil Creek 100 mile trail run (better known as the Andy Karnavas “let’s sign up for this one it looks easy” trail run). First note to self, never listen to Andy’s pre-race analysis. Oil Creek is in Oil City Pa about 1 ½ hours north of Pittsburgh. Just for you history buffs, this part of the country was booming during the early years of oil production. They pumped oil into drums which then were loaded onto barges and pulled down the creek by horses. So much oil leaked into the creek that it became known as Oil Creek. Apparently the oil mixed with mud and created a paste that stuck to the horses’ legs causing all the hair to eventually fall out. I found that hard to believe but as I sit here writing my report and staring at my very smooth hairless legs, I figured they aren’t lying.

The weekend started out great. On Friday night, I had the opportunity to talk to the cross country team that Stacey helps coach. (What a great bunch of kids.) I showed some pictures from Badwater and talked about what it was like running across the desert. It is easy to convince a bunch of innocent 5th-8th graders that you are a good runner. Little did I know that not much more than 24 hours later, I would be laying in mud whimpering to myself about how I want to quit and go home and I will never run trails again.

The 100 mile race started at 5 am so we all gathered in the school cafeteria about 4:30. It was good to see all of the South Park runners and several other ultra guys I see at many of the races. Everyone wanted to talk to me and ask me the same question…..”Where is Val?” Once I explained that Val was running the 50 miler so she wouldn’t start until 6, none of them were interested in talking to me anymore. One little rumor about Val running with you and all of a sudden you are popular for at least a couple of minutes.

I will summarize my race for you folks that have attention disorder problems and can’t read long emails: I ran, I fell on my ass; I ran some more, I fell on my ass; I ran further, I fell on my ass. After a very long time I stopped running and falling on my ass. That is about it.

For those of you who have nothing better to do than read race reports, here is a little more detail:

The race course was a 31 mile loop that you ran three times and then you did a final 7 mile loop to get the 100 miles in. The course information claimed 17,000 feet of climb and I kept thinking that can’t be right. It still seems a bit high but my quads tell me there definitely was a lot of climbing. Most of the trail was single path and pretty technical; lots of rocks and roots. There were a few sections that were cross country ski paths so they were pretty runnable. Fortunately the weather cleared up Friday night but after a week of rain the course was muddy. It got worse with each loop. All three distances (50k, 50 mile, and 100 mile) ran the same course so by the third loop it was nothing but slop.

I learned very quickly that the wooden bridges get real slippery when wet. Early in the race when we were still a bit bunched up, everyone would yell out cautions when we came up on a bridge. The first time I crossed one I made a mental note to walk all the wet bridges. My mental notes don’t stick around too long. About mile 23, I was coming down this little slope and I see this little wooden bridge, one step on it and I can just catapult myself across the gap. The next thing I noticed was that I could see my mud covered shoes and the tops of all the pretty trees at the same time, without looking in different directions. My butt hit the bridge so hard, everything rattled. I really thought I did some serious damage because I felt all kinds of weird feelings that your body shouldn’t feel. I am glad I was running by myself because I let loose with the expletives that no one else should have to hear. After lying on the bridge for several minutes, I decided I better get up and see if anything would fall off my body…..nothing did so I had to continue. From that point on, I crawled across all the wooden bridges. I really thought I was going have a problem for the rest of the run because for the next several miles my lower back and hip ached with every step. Thanks to the aide stations and handfuls of ibuprofen the pain went away (or maybe other pain just over shadowed it).

After my bridge encounter, I did pretty well in the falling category. The trail was littered with rocks, roots, and guys’ broken hearts and crushed dreams (an obvious sign that Val had been through this part of the trail already). During the daylight, I think I had a few slips in the mud where I ended up on my butt but nothing real serious. Once the night came and I was on my third and fourth lap it got to be really slow going. The trails were beat up from all the runners on previous laps and it got very dark. The mud and rocks were not distinguishable in the light from the headlamp so I was constantly expecting mud and I would hit rock or vice versa. As you went up and down over the different mountains, you ran through areas of fog. For those of you who haven’t had the pleasure of running in fog, at night, in the mud, on a rocky trail, while you are crying, you just can’t appreciate how much fun it really is. The light just reflects off the fog and makes visibility almost nothing. I will say that the trails were marked extremely well, even when it was very dark, the reflective flags always seemed to be where you needed them. (I guess maybe Val would argue that the finish line wasn’t marked very well but that is one thing I don’t have any trouble finding when I am that close. I mean, after 50 miles, how do you run PAST the finish line??)

I could do another one of my Romper Room look through the magic wand and name all the people I saw out there (Andrew, Jason, Rich, and Dave), but once we hit the trails, I was pretty much on my own. I did hook up with Kent from North Carolina and we ran together for about 20 miles. A real nice guy who has run a bunch of 100 milers but they were for the most part different than the ones I have run. With his NC accent, he actually talked slower than I was running. Based on my pace, I didn’t think that was possible. When we headed out after the aide station at mile 62 he dropped off and I didn’t see him anymore but based on the posted time, he did finish pretty strong. I did see Val and Rick at the middle school, mile 62. I was sitting on a chair taking off a shoe to check a blister when they came out of the school. They both had already showered and looked like they had just cruised through a 10K; how did they just run 50 miles on those trails and look that good? Val said something like “you look good” and then gave Rick a look like “does he really think he has a chance or running another 40 miles?” As I headed out, I kept thinking why didn’t I sign up for the 50; I could be headed home instead of out into the mud again.

During the night, the temperatures dropped off pretty quickly. Fortunately I had heavier shirts, vests, and gloves stuffed in my drop bags. As I mentioned earlier, the footing was very tough at night. I think I fell more in the last lap and a half than I have in any other 100 miler. (I am sure some of that is due to tired feet in addition to the mud, rocks, and roots.) My handheld water bottle got covered with mud, funny how HEED tastes when it is mixed with mud. The final section was a 7 mile loop that had some incredibly steep climbs; when I finally got back to the last section of bike path my quads were just completely shot. I had a hard time running up the slight incline toward the school. The race director (Tom Jennings) was at the finish line to meet all the runners. His first comment was “how did you like the climbs on the last loop?” If I could have lifted my foot I would have kicked him. I finished in 24:57 which is the slowest time I have had in years. I was surprised when they said I was in 12th place and they think I won masters. Looking at the final results, 88 people started the 100 mile race, 48 finished and 28 of those were under the official 30 hour time limit. It was a challenging but really fun course.

Will I run it again? Only if Andy runs it with me and shows me the easy parts. Seriously, as much as I whine and complain, it was really a fun event.

For an inaugural race it was really well done. Very good aide stations, well marked trails, and good accommodations at the finish line. It is a great event if you are looking for a technical trail run close by.

Congratulations to all the finishers.

See you at the park. (I will be schuffling around it this weekend.)

Eric Grol's Race Report - His 1st hundred

2009-10-14T02:03:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I ran my first hundred at the inaugural Oil Creek Trail Runs. Completing a hundred miler has been a goal of mine for some time now, and I figured I could really leverage my training I did for Laurel Highlands this past summer. Logistically, it would work well since Titusville was so close by, and once I saw the pictures of the autumn leaves on the race website, I was in. I'm a sucker for those fall colors.

The hundred consisted basically of three 50k loops and a little extra tacked on at the end to complete the 100 mile distance. My plan was to go out really slow on the first loop to learn the course, then listen to my Ipod on the second loop (I had my entire Parliament Funkadelic collection loaded and ready to go). As odd as it sounds, I was really kind of looking forward to doing the third loop in the dark. I had done night runs before, but never after already having run 62 miles, and never from dusk to dawn. So I was looking forward to experiencing something new.

The first loop for me was pretty uneventful from what I can remember. I just tried to go slow and enjoy the scenery. I had to laugh at that one rocky section with a sign that said "Welcome to Pioneer Trail -- The Birthplace of Rocks." There were some really pretty waterfalls along the way as well. I also got quite a kick out of one runner's musing on the use of the "bear bells" that some people wore: How do you tell the difference between black bear scat and grizzly bear scat? Black bear has berries in it, grizzly scat smells like pepper spray and has little bells in it.

From my perspective, the trail from the school to the first aid station at Wolfkill Run was pretty manageable. Even from the Wolfkill Run aid station to Egbert Farm (the turnaround point) wasn't all that bad. There were some pretty steep switchbacks right before and right after Wolfkill Run, but they were fairly short. For me, that 9.7 mile stretch from Egbert Farm to the aid station at Miller Farm Road bridge was tough. I don't know what it was about that section. Perhaps as I studied the course prior to the race, that was not a stretch that I had identified as presenting a significant challenge in terms of difficult climbs. I guess sometimes those elevation profiles you find on the race website can be deceiving. I was still feeling pretty good on this lap but the distance was becoming noticeable in my legs. I noticed that the climbs, while difficult, were not giving me any problems. The downhills were becoming increasingly hard for me to keep a steady pace on. By the time I finished the second loop it was dark, and as I got off the trail and began to cross the train tracks, I looked up and saw about a million stars. I turned off my headlamp for a few minutes and just stood there staring at the sky, admiring all the stars. I didn't care if it cost me time. That image of a million stars in the sky is forever etched in my brain and I will always have that memory of my first hundred.

The final loop in the dark was quite an experience for me. Your entire world is reduced to the little bit of trail illuminated in front of you by your headlamp. I found it very taxing to have to be so alert in the middle of the night, when I would otherwise be sleeping. However the penalty for taking your eyes off the trail even for a second could mean slipping on one of the wet rocks or tree roots and taking a nasty spill. Another revelation I had at night was that humans are social animals. By this point the 50k and 50 mile runners were done (except for a couple of 50 mile hikers) and the hundred miler pack had become very stretched out along the trail. I ran for hours without seeing another person and found myself kind of longing to see another soul out there on the trail. Hearing that faint generator sound off in the distance was the most comforting thing in the world to me because it meant there was an aid station somewhere ahead of me. I knew I might not hit it for an hour or more, but that sound meant there were people out there. Seeing the sun start to come back out on my final loop was a nice boost for a tired runner who was about to bonk, hard.

I still don't have the calorie intake thing down to a science yet like I would hope. Perhaps my body is still taking time to adjust from the 16 years of powerlifting I did before I decided I wanted to try running 2 and a half years ago. I seem to have to eat a lot more food, more frequently, than what the literature prescribes. For whatever reason, I must have gotten behind on my calories, because I was feeling horrible as I finished my third loop, and went out to complete the "Headed Home" portion of the course. That was the worst I ever felt in my life, and I recently had 4 wisdom teeth removed (two impacted). Even though I had nothing left, I did the math and knew I could still walk it in and finish under the cutoff. Somehow I made it through that last section of trail, and was joined on the pavement section by my two favorite girls, my wife Melissa and my dog Sophie. Crew member extroardinaire and new friend Danielle also joined in on this section. I managed to muster a run across the finish line, say some words I can't remember to the race director, and just like that, it was over. It was the fastest 30 hours, 23 minutes, and 13 seconds of my life.

I can honestly say I get a high from running ultras. Our bodies were designed to cover great distances on foot in search of food and safety, and ultramarathons are a great way to get back in touch with that. With all the conveniences modern life has to offer, it is important to me that I remind myself what we are really capable of. Now that I have completed my first hundred, I just want to do more (much to the chagrin of my wife). The group of runners in Western PA are some of the nicest people I've met and are always willing to share their knowledge and experience.

Val 's Oil Creek 50 Pre-Race and Race report

2009-10-13T16:33:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I ran the Oil Creek 50 mile Trail Run in Titusville Pennsylvania. As you will see from both my pre-race and race reports – it sure was an interesting journey!

First of all, what was I thinking signing up for 50 mile trail run when I don’t even own trail shoes- let alone run trails! News Flash - Montour trail is not a real trail run! Anyway, dollar by dollar, mile by mile I proceeded to prepare for the OC 50 mile trail run on Saturday October 10th.

10/1/2009 THURSDAY (One week prior to Race Day)

Why did I have to check the weather? Yikes – 10 day forecast is not only “Wet” but “Very Wet”! Send email to Tom Jennings OC Race Director – Do you think I should buy these for the race $69.99??Product Details Meanwhile you know he is just shaking his head thinking “Who would sign up for a trail run and not want to get wet and muddy”?

10/5/2009 MONDAY (5 days til Race Day)

Begin Packing – lay out everything on my bedroom floor. Yikes! Family is concerned. I think it might be harder going to a race with drop bags – one pile for drop bag #1, another pile for drop bag #2, race day pile, hair net, rain machine and fluffy slippers pile, post race shower pile, drive home/hospital/casket pile- piles everywhere!

It is also Pine Richland homecoming weekend and my son and daughter will both be going to the PR homecoming dance as their crazy mother runs 50 miles. (I did not know that when I signed up for the race - lots of guilt.)

Note to Husband: Thank you Tom!

10/6/2009 TUESDAY (4 days til Race Day)

Started to review the course and prepare for the race. Send another email to race director – confused about add -on section for the 50 mile run. Race director replies nicely but puts a * by my name (loony bin – high maintenance!) More concerns reading the race website – elevation, bear sighting, porcupines and a last place finisher award – Yikes! This really caught my attention.

§ A helicopter and ambulance will be on hand as well as a rope rescue team, ATV "mules" for transporting injured runners, and an EMS worker at each staffed aid station in the park will be provided to assist you in an emergency. However, these are very remote locations that are difficult to get aid to in a short amount of time so please read the waiver on the race registration website very carefully.

Note to Self: Paint Toenails Hot Pink – Critical for rescue. Casted/casket legs look better with painted toenails!

10/8/2009 THURSDAY (2 days to Race Day)

Note to Self: Do Not- I repeat- Do Not send another email to the race director – relax, breathe and start getting excited. Add more items to drop bags.

10/9/2009 FRIDAY (1 day to Race Day)

Time to put on my game face and get the car packed. What to wear to packet pick-up? Hmmm “stilettos” were really not cool for Boston packet pick up. Yikes all my extra tennis shoes are in the drop bags! Better go with the low heal loafers and anything camouflaged -try to look like you are a real trail runner??

Note to Self: Wear sunglasses at packet pickup. Introduce yourself to race director as Jeff Gleason.

10/9/2009 FRIDAY (Packet Pick-up)

Arrive in Titusville. Attend pre-race dinner/meeting. Win an Ultra Fuel pack door prize! Say hello to Rick Freeman. He is running the 50 mile run. Get lost finding the Comfort Inn hotel. Stop at gas station and follow two local runners to hotel. They laugh because they are from Titusville and can’t see how anyone would get lost in Titusville! Check-in and obsessively begin watching the weather channel. Race outfit dilemma – should I wear shorts or long pants?

Race Outfit #1: Pants – safety pin race number on pants.

Note to Self: No rain machine tonight – plenty of rain outside already!

Finish laying out race items and early to bed!

10/10/2009 SATURDAY (Race Day!) 6 am Start Time

Wake up call 3:30 am. Turn on the weather channel. 47 degrees!

Race Outfit Change #2: Shorts – un- safety pin race number from pants and re-safety pin on shorts.

Get dressed and take 8 of 16 suitcases to the car. Walk out of the hotel- Yikes! It is cold, raining and dark, very dark! Get coffee and head back to the room.

Race Outfit Change #3: Pants - un- safety pin race number from shorts and re-safety pin on pants.

Take 8 more suitcases to the car and head over to the middle school (race start). Walk in and 100 milers run off into the dark. Check-in and drop off drop bags. Two women in the locker room ask – “are you wearing pants today? (5:30 am) Head to car for shorts. See Rick Freeman and he just smiles and says you have plenty of time. Out to the car, dig through 16 bags, find shorts.

Race Outfit Change #4: Shorts - un- safety pin race number from pants and re-safety pin on shorts.

(5:45 am) Pre- race meeting. Don’t really care what the race director thinks. Go right up to him with my laminated race map and ask him about the 50 mile course add-on section.

(5:55 am) Exhausted from changing outfits. Walk to the start line. Click on flashlight 20 times to make sure it is working.

(6:00 am) – Race Begins!

Race Start (Darkness 6:00 am – 7:23 am)

The OC 50 mile run starts on a bike path and I think to myself this is not too bad, I can do this. Then I see a line of runners and a set of wooden steps heading up into the trails. I click my light but it is already on (did I mention it was dark). One by one into the darkness and straight up we go. I have never run trails in the dark but I quickly learned to stay with the group because it is even darker without the group. My feet quickly became coated in mud and there were roots and rocks everywhere. However as I slowly became acclimated to the trail I realized the darkness was a blessing because it made me appreciate the trails in the daylight and I set my first race goal. Finish in the daylight!

Desert Hero Jeff

It was not until the sun came up did I realize that the blazes on the trees marking the trail were no longer yellow but were blazing red! Wow – then I saw the trail was lined with cheering people. Who was that masked man? Desert Hero Jeff was here an hour or two ago -blazing the trail. I never saw him on my run but when I touched the ground it was still warm from his footsteps! Jeff ran the OC 100 and finished first place masters and 12th overall.

Drop Bag #1 Egbert Farm 13 Miles

As time went on I got into my own rhythm and pace. I met and talked with many runners. Everyone was so friendly. The course was so well marked and the aid stations were wonderful. Even though I was wearing shorts, I was soaked from the rain, sweat and mud so I was so excited to have a drop bag with dry cloths. I quickly changed and regrouped then headed back to the trails.

50 Mile Add-On Section

This section was a little cumbersome but was marked very well. I had my laminated map just in case. As I was starting the add-on section – Rick Freeman was finishing! He ended up finishing 5th overall for the OC 50 mile run.

Drop Bage #2 Titusville Middle School 36 Miles

Nothing like coming into the finish line knowing you are not done! I was getting tired but grabbed some things from my second drop bag and decided not to take the head lamp. I was going to finish before dark if it killed me. I met a nice group of South Park runners and we all headed out with the same goal. Of course they knew Lou D Angelo so I was quickly included in the group.

The Finish Line !!

Finally I am near the finish line. Somehow I thought the finish was at Aid Station #4.” Isn’t this the finish? No – It is around the corner.”

Remember I was the one that got lost in Titusville. My watch time was 11:03. I still don’t know my official finish time.

As you can see from the bottom line – all the money I spent getting ready for this trail run…there is not a price for describing how I felt when I crossed the finish line. However more importantly my son and daughter made it to the PR Homecoming dance and had a wonderful time – now that is surely Priceless!

Bob Fargo's Oil Creek Race Report

2009-10-12T17:11:00.000-07:00

Well, the weather decided to cooperate just in time and, with the exception of a few minor details, the organizers put on a pretty nice event. I have to admit, leading up to the race and even while running, I just couldn’t figure out where they got 8,600’+ of elevation gain and loss for the 50-mile course. Sunday morning, my quads were starting to realize that there really might have been that much!

Even though I haven’t seen any results posted yet, I can say that Sarah and Dan both ran a fantastic 50k, the second for both of them, and both getting in under 8 hours. (And, I heard through the grapevine that Sarah has been offered a recording contract by an Oil City record label for her performance Friday night!)

Rick was methodical, his stride looking exactly the same at the end as it did at the start. He smoked me over the last 15 miles of the 50M to keep it under 10 hours (by 40 seconds).

As promised, Chuck kept it casual all day. If he had been doing the 100, he certainly would have been near the top by the end. As he often does, he was getting progressively stronger as the miles passed.

I got passed by the three top women in the last four miles. They had been running within just a few minutes of each other all day. I did manage to real in the third women on the bike path leading into town and ran with her up the school driveway, but then did the gallant thing and stopped before the finish so that she and her two competitors could finish in succession, the way they had run all day.

Jason and David appeared to be in good spirits at the end of their first loop of the 100M. David, did you keep that pulled pork sandwich down?

Peter looked strong heading out the bike path at the start of loop #2, and I never did come across Bob. Maybe he took a detour back to the brew pub.

Regardless of your individual outcome, congratulations on having what it takes to get to the starting line and at least enjoying what turned out to be a very nice fall weekend in the Penn’s Woods.

Oil Creek 50 Mile Race

2009-10-12T17:04:00.000-07:00

So I am walking up the steep switchback after crossing a wooden bridge in the middle of the woods and I look back over the trail I had just traversed and catch a splash of yellow moving fast through the trees. With about five miles left to go I decide that I need to rally now if I am to hold this guy off. I stay ahead for another mile or so and finally hear him behind me. What a relief to find out it is Richard Cook, the leader of the one hundred mile race. I don’t know if relief is the correct word, as I am getting lapped by someone who has already run almost sixty miles, still has forty to go and is going by like I am standing still.

The wheels fell off a few miles back when I was catching up to Rich Vrboncic and another hundred miler on the descent to aid station #1. I still had my downhill legs and was moving well when I came upon them. As I leaped off a rock to go around them, my right calf decided to cramp upon impact. It was one of the most painful that I have had and it stopped me in my tracks. As I am trying to bend over and grab my toe, yelling in agony, Rich is telling me to walk it off. I like Rich, but if he was close enough to grab, I would have choked him, I was in that much pain.

The concern began back at the Middle School aid station at thirty-five miles. I cruised in feeling good, but beginning to feel the calf tightening up. After refueling my camelback I decided that I needed an extra bit of salt. The elixir of choice was chicken broth, but it was too hot to gulp down, and I did not want to waste too much time at the aid station, so I grabbed the closest cold item to cool it with. That cold item happened to be a cup of strawberry HEED. Strawberry HEED mixed with chicken broth, sounds like something they make you drink on one of those reality shows. But it worked. Too bad I did not have more of it midway through the last lap.

Overall, my race strategy worked well. As I had explained to no one in particular, I had run a few long training runs without eating, in order to force a bonk and work through it. I find this type of training works well. If I begin to feel lousy during a race, I know that I can work through it, even rally. I carried everything I needed for the race in my camelback, and did not stop at any of the aid stations for more than a few seconds, running straight through most of them. While I had a little extra weight to carry, I feel that I more than made up for it by not stopping.

I had the fifth place finisher in sight right before I cramped up, and he put too much trail between us by the time I was able to run again. When Richard came by, I decided to turn it up a notch, and to my surprise, did so without any cramping. So I got back on track and finished strong, coming in just a few seconds under the ten hour mark, but still four minutes behind the fifth place finisher. When I talked with him after the race, he stated that he had a similar predicament, as he was not able to run downhill. After he saw me approaching, a miracle occurred, and he was able to run downhill again. I guess I have that effect on people.

My sixth place finish was very rewarding. The course, race management, aid stations (even though I did not use them) and post race were all first rate. The free massage was especially good. The weather even cooperated, staying cool all day, with cloud cover for most of the day. The trail was beautiful, as the leaves were beginning to change color. If the race were held any later in the month, the leaves on the trail might be an issue.

There were many finishers from the Pittsburgh area in all three distances, 50k, 50 miles and 100 miles. Check out the Oil Creek 100 website to see a list of the finishers. Everyone I talked with had a great time, I think this race will be on many runners’ calendars next year, and no doubt it will fill up again.

Richard Cook ended up winning the 100 mile race. Check out the other finishers and drop them a note to congratulate them for a great effort. If any of you have a race report, please send it along, and let me know if you want me to post it on the blog.

See you on the trails,
Rick

YUT-C Race

2009-09-20T17:00:00.000-07:00

I traveled across the border to Youngstown, Ohio to check out the YUT-C 50k on Saturday. Bob Combs and company put on a fine event in the heart of the city. Who would have thought that you could get a 50k on trails in the middle of an urban area. Well done guys! When I finished, they had a cold beer and hot food in my hands within minutes.

The race was well attended by Pittsburgh area runners. Michelle E. from the North Hills was first woman overall. Other finishers were Stacy K., Eric D., Kevin R., Kat B. and Todd E. Sarah Micklo and her sister Marcia also competed, both completing their first ultra's. Sarahs' husband Dave showed up at the finish line sporting his four Grand Slam belt buckles.

Rich V. was at the race, but spent the day working one of the aid stations. I can't thank the volunteers enough, as they are the soul of every race. Without them, the races just would not happen.

Next up will be the Oil Creek races in October. The YUT-C was a good training run for the Oil Creek race. There will be many Pittsburgh folks running there, I hope I can remember them all.

Let me know if you have any ultra's between now and October 10th.

Mission Accomplished

2009-09-13T02:51:00.001-07:00

The Wasatch Front 100 was the final race in Dave Micklos' attempt at the ultrarunning "Grand Slam" and I imagine he was excited to finish. When I talked with Dave after the Leadville race, he was ready to get it over with. I will talk to him when he returns to get his thoughts on becoming the first Pennsylvanian to complete the "Slam". For those who are not familiar with it, the ultrarunning Grand Slam consists of four of the longest running 100 mile races in the United States. They are the Western States, Vermont, Leadville and Wasatch Front one hundred mile races. Each year a few dozen folks set out to complete the series, and only a select few actually complete the four races. Congratulations Dave on a job well done. Now take it easy for a few weeks.

The "Greek Run" was held at the end of August and seventeen local runners came out to enjoy the six hour fun run hosted by Wayne and Jan Kurtz. The day was perfect for running. A challenging loop course, overcast skies, a little rain, and great food capped a fun day in the woods. The hit of the day was the extensive buffet that Jan had ready for the runners at the completion of the run. A few runners even left the course a bit early in order to get a head start on the food. Don Smith was the winner, running a total of eight laps, with most of the other runners completing seven laps. Wayne has already agreed to host the run next year, with both a six hour and twelve hour event.

Our local fun run schedule now boasts four long runs that provide an opportunity for runners to get a long run in without the time and costs associated with traveling to races. I will post the schedule for 2010 when I confirm the dates with the hosts. We may even be able to add a fifth run to the series, so that the local ultrarunners can get their endorphin fix.

The Punxsy 50k was run on Sept. 12th. I do not have any information on the race yet, but I hope to get a couple of race reports that I can pass along.

Next up is the YUT-C 50k in Youngstown, Ohio. This will be my first time running the event, but I have heard great reviews. There will be many local runners participating.

The Oil Creek races are scheduled early in October, and there are a lot of local runners entered in one of the three distances offered. There are 50k, 50 mile and 100 mile races on the docket. I remember a few years ago, you could count the number of Pittsburgh area ultrarunners on two hands. Now there are too many to count, and I keep running into more at the races I attend. It is good to see that ultrarunning is going strong in Western Pannsylvania.

Local update

2009-08-27T17:34:00.000-07:00

Summer is beginning to wind down and the fall marathon and ultra season will be heating up. Dave M. and Bob F. toughed it out at Leadville last week, both finishing under the thirty hour time limit to earn their coveted silver buckles. Dave now has only one more 100 miler (wasatch) to do to complete the ultrarunning Grand Slam. Bob's finish was well earned, as he had unfinished business there from a few years ago. I can't wait to hear the stories.

While Dave and Bob were in Colorado, Scott F. was in South Dakota, running the Lean Horse 100. While not as hilly, it certainly was a tough day as both the temperatures and humidity were high.

Don't forget about the Greek Fun Run this Saturday. What a way to end the summer and get a long run in with many of the best local ultrarunners. Jeff G. will be there to wow us with Badwater stories, Dave M. will stop by and tell us about the quest for the grand slam. And of course, Wayne will be hosting the run, and he has some great ultra-triathlon stories - those guys are unbelievable.

While not an ultra, the Gatorade Steelers 5k is on Sunday, I will be helping out with the course duties that day. It is a cool race, and the runners get to finish inside Heinz Field, although they still don't let you on the grass.

Grand Slam update

2009-08-07T15:05:00.000-07:00

Hello all,

I asked Dave Micklo to write a few words about his current attempt at the ultrarunning "Grand Slam". Here are his words to me:

"Hey Guys,

Just putting together a quick note about my summer so far. As some of you may know, I'm attempting The Grand Slam of Ultra Running this year. It consists of the four oldest 100 mile trail runs, all within 11 weeks starting with the Western States 100 in California and on to the Vermont 100. Next two will be the Leadville 100 in Colorado and ending with the Wasatch Front 100 in Utah. What got me interested in The Slam was that I noticed that there has never been a PA finisher! I've heard we had someone "from" PA, but they registered from another state perhaps. So... I'm hoping I can be the first!

So far Western States and Vermont are complete. And let me tell you, no matter how many times you do these things, they always surprise you! I was shooting to do States in under 24 hours. You're allotted 30 hrs, but I'm a decent downhill runner and it is primarily a downhill course with approximately 18,000 feet of gain and 23,000 feet of loss. Now I know 24 hrs is a very lofty goal, but hey I've trained hard right? Prior to the race I had put in 1012 miles this year and since my training started last Oct I had logged 1425.5 miles! Well, I guess the training wasn't hard enough... The high temps absolutely killed me. I knew it would be hot, but it was absolutely Africa hot! When I crossed the finish line at 10:05 am on Sunday it was 105 degrees in Auburn! Definitely putting the "burn" in Auburn! I experienced problems during this race that I've never experienced before; blisters, vomiting and the most concerning, side pains in the kidney region. These pains hit me hard coming out of Devil's Thumb and I was quite worried. I actually ask to speak to one of the medical guys. He assured me I was fine, to drink, rest a bit and keep peeing! I thought, "Wow, even the damn medical guys are lying to me!" But what could I do, my pacer, Steve Miller, and my crew (wife) Sarah wouldn't listen to a damn word I was saying. Instead they dutifully pushed me out of Michigan Bluff, down the road to my demise. But hey, it worked, I finished just a few short miles and a couple hours later. Yeah it was 46 miles and 14 hours later, but that's irrelevant right? So could I have finished in under 24 on a cooler day? Some of my friends say I could. But me... I don't know. There are some amazing runners out there! I just don't think I'm in that league yet.

Next up was Vermont just three short weeks after States. My buddy Jason DeChicchis was running it as well. Now here was a race I HAD to do in under 24 hours! You see, at Vermont if you take longer than 24 hours you only get a plaque instead of the obligatory runner's "BUCKLE". You still get 30 hours to finish, but if I was shooting for The Slam, I wanted to see 4 "BUCKLES" up on the "I LOVE ME WALL"!!! Not 3 and a plaque. So healed up and ready my plan was to make hay while there was daylight, and run like hell early, and that I did. But my big concern all throughout those beautiful, rolling country hills was that I would burn myself out too quickly and fade before those 100 trail miles rolled under my feet. However, I had a secret weapon that I yet to find out about. You see my problem was that not only were headphones not allowed at Vermont i.e. NO MUSIC, but I didn't have a pacer either and I was really worried about HOW I was going to get to the end. I was doing really good passing 50+ miles, but I was starting to really fade between 60 and 70. Then my secret weapon was revealed to me. My wife Sarah had decided to run the final 23 miles with me! What an absolute life saver! I really owe my sub 24 hour finish to her! I would have definitely gave up on it. Somewhere after mile 90 or so, I really started to crumple. My ankles were hard to bend and the muscles on the front of my shins really hurt. Again, ailments I haven't before encountered. But Sarah was ruthless and pushed me hard. I have to send out a huge apology for some of the things I said to her. She knew I was really hurting, but she also knew I had built up enough time and a sub 24 hour could happen. So 23 hours and 45 minutes later, after starting off at 4am on a rainy Vermont Saturday morning, I crossed the finish line... absolutely crushed.

So here I am, 3 weeks after Vermont and just 2 weeks prior to Leadville. What now? I know Leadville allows 30 hours to finish and has less gain and loss than both States and Vermont did. However, it's a high altitude ultra where the lowest elevation is 9,200 feet. It is a 50 mile out and back course where you simply turn around half way through and run the course in reverse. The problem with that is a mile 44 it crosses Hope Pass at 12,600 feet! Yep, you gotta do it twice! Yikes. This time my buddy Bob Fargo is going to run the course as well and my plan will be to try and stick with him for the front half. Bob not only has experience on the course he is also really fast and if I can stick with him, I can bank enough time to almost walk back! I hope I can do it.

My last race will be Wasatch, 3 weeks after Leadville. I did this race in 2007 in just under the cut-off of 36 hours! I finished in 35:32:37, just another 16 seconds per mile and I would have timed out! Yeah I did it once, but this race has 26,882 feet of gain and 26,131 feet of loss and it definitely is NOT easy. But first things first, I've got the beautiful mountains of Colorado on my thoughts and I need to get through that. Wish me luck."

Maj David W. Micklo 147th ARS

Thanks Dave, we are all pulling for the first PA "Grand Slam" finisher.

If you see Dave or Bob Fargo this week or next, wish them luck at Leadville. BTW, Bob turns 50 in a few days so don't forget to give him a little grief.

I have decided to do the Oil Creek 50 miler in October. This will be the first year for this race, offering 50k, 50 mile and 100 mile options. There are a lot of folks from the Pittsburgh area doing one of the three races.

Don't forget about the Greek Fun Run later this month, it will be a great tune-up for the fall ultras and marathons. It will be our last fun run of the year.

Ultra running update

2009-08-02T10:31:00.000-07:00

The Burning River 100 near Cleveland just finished and we had a respectable showing of runners from the Pittsburgh area. Congratulations to Brian Ottinger for completing his first one hundred mile foot race. Also finishing were Wayne Kurtz, Marie Bartoletti and Philip Westlake. The course may not be as tough as many trail runs, but the weather certainly had an effect on all of the runners. It looked to be warm and humid for most of the day. I will try to get a report from one of the runners.

I talked with Dave Micklo yesterday, and he will send a report on the first two races of the ultrarunning "Grand Slam". If you run into Dave, wish him luck at Leadville later this month and at Wasatch in early September.

Now that it is August, many runners are training for their fall races. If you get a minute, let me know what you are running so we can keep track of you. Don't forget about the Greek Fun Run in North Park later this month. It will be our last fun run this year, and will be a great tune-up for your fall races. It is a six-hour run, but you don't have to do all six hours. If you want to do less, just come later and enjoy the post race picnic. It will be a great time to share your running stories with like minded people. The webpage is:Greek Fun Run

The Longest Day

2009-07-23T17:40:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of Barry and Casey at one of the many stops along the way.

Thursday at the RAGBRAI was the day that one could add an extra loop to get a 100 mile ride in. Casey, Barry and Austin each completed the "century" ride and got the coveted patch. For each, it was their first century ride. The day ended up being warm and sunny with rain int he afternoon. Casey, Tom and Mike all finished before the afternoon rain, Barry and Austin both got caught in it.

We are staying at the home of Ed and Kathy Wilson in Ottumwa and it is wonderful. I am sitting in the kitchen writing this and half of the neighborhood is here enjoying the evening.

Tomorrow is another 70+ mile day for the riders and then an easy finish on Saturday.

Over the hump

2009-07-23T04:12:00.000-07:00

Today will be the longest ride of the week, 77 miles with an added loop to give the riders a 100 mile option. The folks who add the loop get a special patch, so I have been encouraging everyone to do the hundred. After all, that's what they came here to do.

An intense thunderstorm rolled through this morning, beginning around 0400. It cleared by 0600 and everyone began preparing for the days ride. The route will be a little more crowded, as no one left early, as had been the case on previous days. The temps are a little warmer, and the humidity will be up.

The church we stayed at Wednesday night was the best site yet, they were very accommodating, letting us fill our water tanks and empty the others. The town is similar to all the others, a town square with a courthouse in the middle. The main activities center around this area, with food vendors and bike vendors around the perimeter. The shuttles from the outlying campsites are usually school buses. Indianola had the best shuttles, large John Deere tractors pulling wagons like those used in a parade.

RAGBRAI part I

2009-07-21T10:31:00.001-07:00

It is Tuesday morning and I have arrived at the stopover town of Indianola, IA. This is the third town we have stopped in along the route across the state. So far, everyone we have met has been very hospitable. All the folks welcome us to their town and ask what they can do to help us. I had to stop at the hardware store in Red Oak to get an adapter for the RV. The manager there stated that he had just sold the part that I needed. I left him my cell phone number in case one was returned. He called me less than twenty minutes later to say he had the part and would hold it for me until I could run back for it. (it is easier to run around these small towns than it is to drive, and I get some miles in.) The guys are all riding well and have had no mechanical problems yet. The weather was perfect on Sunday, rained for half the day on Monday and has been overcast so far today. But the temps have been great for riding. I am not able to take the vehicle to the intermediate towns, but the guys say that they are all a great time. Near one town the Miller Light folks set up a beer garden in the middle of a field where you can stop and get an adult beverage. The bars in each town are packed at night, as you can imagine when 10,000 plus riders converge on them. The entertainment is good and gets a little crazy at times. Each town has a main stage for a feature group, but they charge admission, so we just go to the bars for entertainment. There are food vendors and bike shops that move along the route and set up each night in the host town. You can get some pretty good food, but you have to be early, as they run out later in the evening. There always seems to be enough beer though. There are many "teams" that ride together and they have old school buses that are rigged for rider support. You would not believe how many there are! Casy has taken most of the pictures, so when he gets in this afternoon, I will try to post a few.

2009-07-17T17:26:00.000-07:00

It's Friday night and I am getting ready for the bike ride next week. Tomorrow is Annie's run, a six hour run here in the South Hills. I plan on doing about four hours before catching a ride to Omaha for the start of RAGBRAI on Sunday. I should be able to post a few reports from the route.

Jason D., Dave M., Donny K. and Sue W. are in Vermont for the 100 miler which begins Saturday morning. Word is that the trail is muddy, but I am sure they will all do well. Wayne and Jan K. will be at the mile 76 aid station helping out. Always cool to see folks helping out at races.

Jeff Gleason had a great run at the Badwater 135, I can't wait to get a report from him. There were two other somewhat local runners at Badwater, Alicia S. from Pa, and Elizabeth C. from Jersey both had excellent runs in the desert. They both finished Laurel last month so I was rooting for them.

I will check in from Iowa next.

Rick

2009-07-12T02:36:00.000-07:00

The Dog Days are here...

... and the running is hotter than ever. The spring and early summer saw many local runners doing extraordinary races. There was the Bull Run Run 50 and MMT100 in Virginia. The Laurel Highlands Ultras in PA, the Highlands Sky 40 in WV, Mohican 100 in OH and of course Western States and Hardrock out west.

There were a bunch of local runners who completed the Bull Run Run 50 in April to kick off the season. All of them did well, and there were a few humorous stories as well.

Dave Micklo did well at Western States 100, the first leg of the ultrarunnng grand slam. Up next for him is the Vermont 100. Perhaps I can get him to write a few words about Western States.

Bob Combs, our good friend from nearby Youngstown, OH is set to finish the Hardrock 100 as I write this. The HR100 is considered by many to be the toughest 100 mile run you can do (except perhaps the Barkley, but that is a different discussion).

Ron Ross from Cleveland finished the Mohican 100 in Ohio for the what seems like the umpteenth time.

Jeff Gleason should be in Death Valley right now, acclimating for the Badwater 135 which begins on Monday. If you get a chance, check the Post Gazette, as there are a couple of articles about Jeff running Badwater. He should do well, and has a great crew with him.

Wayne Kurtz returned from Hungary where he raced a double iron triathlon. He told me the race was held in a small town there, and all of the residents treated them like stars. They were asking the athletes for autographs. If you know Wayne, he is not into the publicity thing, but I am sure he enjoyed a moment in the spotlight. His training for the deca-iron in November is going well. I will be there reporting for the latter part of the race this year.

Next month, Bob Fargo and Dave Micklo will be traveling to Leadville for the 100 trail run there. I know Bob has some unfinished business there and will be ready to rumble. Bob has been putting in some monster miles on the Laurel Trail.

The Laurel Races went well this year, and the weather was perfect. If you always wanted to run a good time, in good conditions at Laurel, this was the year. For those of you that have not experienced this beautiful trail, you owe it to yourself to check it out. You don't have to wait for the race, as you can hike or run it any time of the year.

Next up, Anne's run on July 18th. It is a six hour run at the Gilfillen Trail in Upper St. Clair. The trial is a 1.25 mile loop on a wood chip surface. The race honors Sam Bertenthals' late wife Anne whom we sadly lost this past year. The race starts at 0600. Check the Greater Pittsburgh Road Runners website for more information.

Don't forget the Greek Fun Run at Wayne's house at the end of August. It will be a great training run for those of you getting ready for fall races. The info is here: www.laurelultra.com/greek_fun_run.htm

I will try to check in next week before I leave for RAGBRAI, where I will be touring the great state of Iowa for a week.

Keep running well,
Rick

Iditarod Trail Invitational - Part 1

2009-03-22T03:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, here is the beginning report that you have all been waiting for, the Alaska Ultra Sport 350.

Chuck and I began the 350 mile race on March 1st, along with Tim Hewitt and Tom Jarding who were doing the 1100 mile race. We met James Leavesley at the Minneapolis airport, he was going to attempt the 1100 mile race on a snow bike. Our flight from Pittsburgh was delayed so we did not arrive in Anchorage until Friday evening. We spent the evening hanging out with other races at a local bike shop which hosted a pizza and beer party for everyone.

It snowed all day on Saturday and we debated how the foot or so of new snow would affect the trail when we began on Sunday. The race organizers do a great job of transporting everyone to the start and the bus picked us up promptly at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday for the ride to the start at Knik Lake. The Knik bar was not aware of our impending arrival and had a little trouble keeping up with food orders prior to the start because they did not have enough staff. It was cool to spend some time with others racers. Eric Johnston, who we met last year was at the bar getting some last minute calories. Here is a picture of us at the start, that is a cheeseburger in my hand.

The weather was pleasant, with sun, and temps in the twenties. The trail was well packed and the start was picture perfect. In the small world category, Doug, who sat next to me on the flight to Anchorage was at the start taking pictures. He was from Denver and was in town visiting another photographer friend who dragged him to the start.

Our sleds performed well and we quickly settled into a comfortable pace. Our first goal was to get to the sign for Nome before dark, so that we could get a few pictures of the sign with the Kennywood arrow. The temps began dropping and the wind picked up so when we got to the sign, it was time to add another layer of clothing and get prepared for a long cold night on the lakes, swamps and rivers before arriving at the first checkpoint. When participating in a race that lasts a week or more, it is hard to get into the proper mindset in the early hours of the race. With this in mind, we continued on into the night, heading toward Flathorn Lake, the Great Dismal Swamp and the Big Susitna River.

This is when we encountered our first obstacle.....

Spring in Pittsburgh

2009-03-22T02:44:00.000-07:00

It has been a few weeks since my last post and I decided it was time to get going again. I spent the last week getting caught up after returning from the Alaska Ultra Sport race. Here is a quick recap of what has been going on in the area. I will post my race report separately. I did get to put the Kennywood sign up but did not have time to get a Terrible Towel to the bar in McGrath.

Saturday, March 21st was spent helping out at the J.C. Stone 50k race here in North Park. This was the second year for the race. Lou D. and the Rotary volunteers are doing an excellent job of improving the race. There were 47 runners who started, and a lot of fast times.

Dave Micklo sent me the list of runners who ran a Mingo last month, I will have them on the website shortly.

The Pittsburgh Marathon and Half-Marathon has sold out, pretty impressive for a race that is getting back on it's feet. I will be part of the NUGO pace team, leading the 3:50 group. If you want to hear a few stories about Alaska, join me in running 3:50 at the Pittsburgh Marathon.

Jeff Gleason was accepted to run in the Badwater 135 this year, we spent some time while volunteering at the 50k race talking about what is involved in doing the BW135. Many of you will recall that Wayne and I crewed for Mary K. a few years ago, so I had some ideas about how to make things a little smoother for Jeff's crew. Jeff and Scott F. are heading down to North Carolina for the Umstead 100 in two weeks. I told them to look up Peter Lefferts from Naples, Fl while there. Peter was very entertaining when I met him at the Deca Iron in Mexico last year.

It is time to go

2009-02-27T01:49:00.000-08:00

It is Friday morning and we are ready to get the show on the road. I received an e-mail from Bill Merchant stating that Mt. Redoubt is steaming again, after being quiet for a while. The volcano is not too much of a threat to the race, but we will take dust masks with us just in case. Bill also said that on the bright side, if there is ash in the air, the sunsets get even more spectacular.

Thanks to everyone who has called or e-mailed to wish us luck during the Iditarod Trail Invitational. I learned a lot last year, and hope to learn even more this time around. You never know what the trail has in store, and this year should be no exception. Of course, Chuck and I will take as many pictures as possible.

I will talk to everyone in a couple of weeks.

Racing season begins soon.

2009-02-21T17:24:00.000-08:00

I have a lot of ground to cover in this report. The first annual Mingo Mingle was held on February 14th. Dave Micklo hosted the run at Mingo Creek county Park. Approximately 35 runners showed up on a cold and cloudy morning to run a couple of loops on the trails in the park. Dave's wife Sarah and John Buckwalter staffed the aid station at the start finish area. The support was excellent, it was set up just like an actual aid station, with many food choices. John even entertained us with magic tricks, balloon animals and unicycling. I will post the runners names and the distances they ran when Dave gets it all deciphered. I got a chance to talk with many of the runners, asking what their racing plans are for the upcoming season. Dave has an interesting decision to make. He was accepted into the Hardrock 100, considered by many to be the toughest 100 miler there is. He also plans on completing the Grand Slam of Ultrarunning, which consists of the Western States 100, Vermont 100, Leadville Trail 100, and Wasatch Front 100. Hardrock would be sandwiched in between two of those races, which are plenty tough already. He is going to have a busy summer. The picture above is of one of the creek crossings at Mingo. The temps where in the middle 20's most of the day, there was plenty of ice in the creek, and the trail was crunchy. A perfect day for a run.

Don't forget about the J.C. Stone 50k in a few weeks. The race will be held in North Park and is entirely on roads, those of you looking for a fast 50k should check this race out. The website is jcstone.com. The course is fast and the aid stations are first rate.

I heard from Jeff Gleason earlier this week, he is going to do the Badwater 135 this summer. I will try to keep you posted on his training as the event approaches. I will talk with him while volunteering at the JC Stone race, and will update you on his plans.

Jason D. will be competing in the MMT 100 in May, that is one tough race. It is presented by the VHTRC and is probably the toughest 100 mile race east of the Mississippi River.

Only one week to go before Chuck, Tim, Tom and I get started at the Iditarod Trail Invitational. I completed my sled and can not wait to get underway. Here is a picture of the blank sheet of plastic, and the finished product. Pretty cool, eh. I can take out the fasteners, roll it up and put in my duffle bag for the plane ride. The airlines are getting pretty tough on the size of items you check. Chuck had an article about the race in the Post Gazette this week. Tim and I were interviewed by the Tribune Review. You can find either article by going to the website for each paper and entering Iditarod in the search bar.

We leave on Friday and the race begins on March 1st. It is the only race I have been to where everyone is eating right up until the start. We will be in the Knik bar having a burger and fries before the race. I will tray to post one last report before leaving.

Lastly, Wayne has informed me that he will be hosting a 6 hour fun run at his house in August. It will be a trail loop format with an aid station at his house. His wife Jan has promised a tasty feast afterwards for all of the runners. Also, I have heard that Steve Miller may be putting together a fun run at North Park, I will let you know when I get official word.

Take care and run strong. Spring will be here soon.

Six more weeks of winter

2009-02-02T16:35:00.000-08:00

It's Groundhog Day and Phil determined that there will be six more weeks of winter. That is great news! Our training for the Iditarod is going well, and the more cold weather we have, the better. A couple of weeks ago, Chuck, Tim, Loreen, Rick B. and myself did a training run in the Laurel Highlands. The snow machine trails were in great shape and we were able to pull our sleds for about five hours that night. Afterwards, we camped out in the woods, where night-time temps dropped well below zero. It was really good training for Alaska. Chuck mentioned that he learned a lot on that trip. The next day we traveled to the Cleveland area for the Buckeye Trail 50k. They had a lot of new snow, which made the trail fairly slippery the entire day. We chalked it up as a good training run.

We got a good run in at Mingo Park on Sunday in preparation for the fun run coming up in a couple of weeks. The trails were snow covered and tough to run on. The weather is going to warm up for a few days, so the trails should be better by the end of the week. At least they are not muddy, which is the case much of the year. Don't forget to join us for the Mingo Mingle on February 14th. You can view details on the webpage, which can be found here: http://www.laurelultra.com/mingo_mingle.htm
I added links to a couple of images of the trail that Bob Fargo sent to me.

Steeler nation is fired up, as our favorite team won it's Sixth Super Bowl last night. What a game, as the lead changed hands three times in the final minutes. Many of the South Hills area ultra-runners watched the game at Don's house.

I am still waiting for the new plastic to arrive so that I can complete work on my sled. I am guessing that the bad weather across the country slowed the delivery, and hope that it arrives this week. I will put a couple of pictures up when I get it finished. I also plan on switching from a synthetic sleeping bag to a down bag so that I can shed a few pounds on my sled. We will be sending our food drops to Alaska shortly, which the race will take by plane to the two drop points along the Iditarod course. I am beginning to get excited again, and can not wait to get started.

Winter has Arrived

2009-01-13T15:28:00.000-08:00

I began the new year with the annual Recover From the Holidays 50k fun run, sponsored by Don Smith. This was our sixth year for the run, and over seventy folks showed up to run with us. It was a good thing that we moved the start area, as the old one would not have comfortably accommodated all of those runners. The weather was great, and the food that people brought was even better. Joe Bertini and Cindy Sanchas each brought hot food that everyone enjoyed. We had a generator to supply electricity and a gas stove to heat up soup. You can view a recap of the run here:

http://www.laurelultra.com/usc50.htm

Next month there is another fun run at Mingo Creek County Park, Dave Micklo and friends are sponsoring it. I have added some information on another webpage that you can view here:

http://www.laurelultra.com/mingo_mingle.htm

Many of those who ran with us last week have e-mailed to say that they will be at the Mingo run. For those of you who have not run in Mingo Park before, this is a great way to learn some of the trails. It is a very good park for trail running. Check out the webpage, and e-mail Dave M. or myself if you have any questions. Otherwise, I will see you all on February 14th. Don't worry, you will be done early enough to take your significant other out to dinner.

We are finally getting some cold winter weather along with a little snow. Chuck and I can get some much needed training, pulling our sleds, and camping in the cold. We were going to spend last weekend at Laurel, but the rain put a damper on those plans. We are probably the only two people in Pittsburgh who are looking forward to the cold snap that is bearing down on the area. We will spend the first part of the weekend in the mountains, and then head up to Cleveland early Sunday morning for the Buckeye Trail 50k. The BT50k has become somewhat of a ritual for us, as this will be the fourth year in a row we have gone. We make a day of it, running the race, eating at a local pub, and visiting with our friend Vince at Vertical Runner in Hudson. Last year I picked up a Smartwool shirt that worked perfectly during my Alaska expedition.

I finished my sled prototype and took it out for a spin tonight. It worked wonderfully. I had trouble last year with my sled tipping over on the Iditarod Trail, so I tried to tip the new one, and could not do it. I still have a few tweaks to make before building the final version that I will take to Alaska. I am real excited that my design is working so well.

Stay warm, and keep up the base training. These are the kind of days that make us tough later in the year.

The end is near.

2008-12-21T01:56:00.000-08:00

It has been a busy few weeks since my last post. Christmas and the New Year are almost upon us, and it becomes a little tougher to find the time to train. I have been able to get the extra miles and still have time to attend holiday functions. We ran with Jason D. and Jess E. last Wednesday. Jess will be running her first ultra next month at the Buckeye Trail 50k, so she has been joining us for some long runs. Jason got into Massanutten 100, so his training will begin to increase, hopefully we can get together for some long runs with him. Don't forget, we have the Recover from the Holidays 50k fun run on January 3, 2009. I have been getting a lot of requests from folks wanting more information about the run. I have a page with information at: http://www.laurelultra.com/usc50.htm. Feel free to attend this fun event in two weeks. It is a loop course that is about 10.6 miles long. You can do one, two or all three loops. If you have not run at Boyce/Mayview park, you will be pleasantly surprised at the quality of trails in our own backyards. The start area this year is new, as we have outgrown the Morton Field parking lot. The run will begin at the pavilion next to the new Upper St. Clair Rec Center (the rec center is still under construction).

Also, Dave Micklo has announced that he will be holding a 50k fun run at Mingo Creek County Park in February. It will be called the Mingo Mingle, and I will put some info up on a page soon. Not sure of the URL yet, but I will post it when I decide. Dave will be attempting the Grand Slam in 2009, good luck to him in his endeavor. That means will be able to get some long training runs in with Dave and his friends.

Don't forget, January 3, 2009, I will see you all there and we can catch up on race stories from the past year.

Have a safe Holiday.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T01:57:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. It is good to be home and enjoying the cold weather. There is a lot to report this week.

The DecaIron is continuing in Mexico, and each day I can't wait to see how our friends are doing. We are all pulling for Peter, Eileen and Suraya to finish before the Sunday deadline. It looks as though they will all make it, as long as they can keep moving. Just type ultra triathlon in a search engine and you should be able to find information on the race. Also Steve Kirby has a blog where he has daily race reports. Not sure of the address, but a search should get you there.

The Iditarod Trail Invitational has filled to the 50 racer limit. Tim Hewitt and Tom Jarding will be attempting the 1100 mile race again. Just can't keep those two away from the great state of Alaska. I will report on our training as it progresses.

The JFK 50 mile was held last Saturday and there were many folks from the Pittsburgh area competing. I checked the results and here are the local runners that I found:
Chris Gibson 7:47
Andrew Place 8:45
Andrew Karnavas 8:46
Scott Finnell 8:53
Andrew Colburn 8:58
Valerie Kunkle 9:05
Jeff Gleason 9:05
Sabine Kane 9:05
Michelle Ellery 9:08
Kim Marshall 9:10
Stacy Kopchak 9:24
Maria Vargas 9:31
Eric Grol 9:46
Kevin Knaus 9:46
Tony Mauro 9:53
Rich Vrboncic 10:54
John Edleman 10:59
Kim Peterson 11:19
Mike Tatarko 11:43
Kevan Matthews 11:47
Mike Lotze 11:49

Let me know if I missed anyone, and send me your reports if you have a minute. There are quite a few new ultra runners from our area, and many names that I have not seen in a while.

Rich V. e-mailed me to say that he caught up to Leo Lightner from the Cleveland area and ran the last part of the race with him. Leo set a new age group record (He is 80 years old and ran a 12:55) for the JFK50, besting the old record by almost an hour. Perhaps I can get Rich to write a report.

Don't forget to mark your calendars for the Recover from the Holidays 50k Fun Run on January 3, 2009. You can find more information at laurelultra.com/usc50.htm, or send me an e-mail. Many folks have contacted me about participating, we should have a great turnout this year. Remember, it is a fun run, no fee, no aid, no shirt, no whining. We will however, try to have some hot soup and snacks at the finish.

Enjoy your Turkey, see you all soon.

Hard Days Night

2008-11-20T22:46:00.000-08:00

Wayne finished the quintuple iron race in 111 hours, 40 minutes, 46 seconds. The time is unofficial. Third place overall. Great job!!! I will report tomorrow, as we are both tired.

Quintuple Winner

2008-11-20T16:34:00.000-08:00

Andreas has won the quintuple iron race in a time 103 hours, 45 minutes. It is still exciting here as Elke continues at a steady pace, running almost two laps to everyone else´s one. Wayne is working hard and running steady laps. I am almost sad that the race will be over soon. I am enjoying the atmosphere and friendliness of the racers and support crews. Michelle should hang on for second place, if she can keep her current pace. Elke´s surge has put the pressure on Wayne and Michelle, and kept the race exciting. Wayne has twelve laps to go, about fifteen miles. I am hoping that he can finish before midnight tonight. It will be a well deserved sleep. These athlete´s are simply unbelievable!

Running On Empty

2008-11-20T12:14:00.000-08:00

It is a little after 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, during the heat of the day. Wayne got an early start, but has not been able to keep a steady pace. He stopped at lunch for a break and hopefully can rebound in the afternoon. Michelle has passed him and continues to add to the gap between them. The brain is willing, but the body is rebelling. He has twenty five laps to go, about a 50K. I will try to get him to eat, but he has been stubborn in that respect. Elke now has her sights on third place. She was upset that her crew did not wake her this morning and is now running two laps to each lap that Wayne is running. If he can keep his lap times under twenty-two minutes, he should be able to hold her off. Andreas has about six laps to go and will get the victory early this evening.
In the deca race, the leaders are at the 1500 kilometer mark. They should finish the bike tomorrow morning and begin the run.
The transition area is an interesting place each morning. We are usually the first to arrive, if we don´t sleep there. Many racers retire for the night and begin arriving around 4:00 a.m. Then the support crews arrive and by 7:00 a.m. the area begins to come alive.
The kitchen is open around the clock and the ladies there continue to amaze me with the many various menu items. I have been able to sample many mexican food items, and am even learning how to pronounce them.

Final Day?

2008-11-20T01:46:00.000-08:00

Virgil, back on line (who can guess what movie that line is from?). After a midday rest and four hours of sleep this morning, Wayne is back on the circuit and ready to go. He had a good rally last night before retiring for the evening. With forty-six laps remaining, we hope to finish late today. We do not want to return to the dorm, where there are three flights of steps to the room. Andreas has built a comfortable lead, Wayne and Michelle were tied when Wayne returned to the course. Michelle is still sleeping in her tent, so we may be able to gain a lap or two on her. I will let you know how the day goes. The lead athletes in the deca race are still going strong. Michael G. from Germany suffered his fourth flat of the race. When we returned from the dorm, I found his wheel resting against our supply table. It is a good thing that Wayne brought extra tires, as he has now borrowed his fourth tire from him. Thanks for all of the encouragement, it really helps when we hit down spots during the day.
p.s. - it takes me longer to type this here, as the keyboard for spanish is slightly different, and I keep hitting incorrect keys;)

Muy Caliente

2008-11-19T12:38:00.000-08:00

It is about 2:30 p.m. and the heat has taken it´s toll. Without much protest, Wayne will sleep for a couple of hours during the midday heat. Hopefully, he can rally, as his lap times have continued to deteriorate. Andreas has taken the lead on the last lap. After the rest it should be much cooler and better for running. I also need to get him to eat more, as his calorie intake has also dwindled. I know how hard it is to get a variety of foods, but I will try to stockpile a few while he sleeps. He has completed forty-five laps so far. This rest may also allow us to shorten the stop tonight. His attitude and demeanor contines to be excellent.

You Can´t Always Get What You Want

2008-11-19T07:08:00.000-08:00

We thought that we had the sleep schedule figured out after a noisy Monday night. We asked that the music be turned down after 10 p.m. and the race management obliged. The start finish area was very quiet, so Wayne decided he would sleep in the tent. The plan was for three and a half hours of rest. As soon as he started to sleep, about 1 a.m., the support crews across the street decided it was time to party, and the noise ramped up. We had to move to the room, which is further away and up three flights of steps. If I find out where they sleep, I promised to go and make a racket when they try to rest. We will modify the sleep tonight, as we do not want to waste any more time. This morning began well, and Wayne is at twenty-seven laps so far. The total run is one hundred eleven laps, so a marathon is about twenty-two laps. It is another beautiful day, clear and sunny.

On The Run

2008-11-18T20:33:00.000-08:00

The run portion of the quintuple iron race has begun. Wayne was first off the bike, followed by Andreas twenty or so minutes later. After two laps the lead has shrunk to just a few minutes. Wayne will run a few kilometers and then get some sleep.

Tuesday Evening

2008-11-18T17:53:00.000-08:00

It is about 7:00 p.m. Tuesday evening and Wayne has less than twenty laps left on the bike. A little later than expected, but welcome nonetheless. It looks as though he will be first off the bike. We have decided to run a few miles before he takes a break. The noise around the start/finish area is lower tonight so he should be able to get some much needed sleep. A lot of the athlete's are showing signs of fatigue as they are becoming somewhat silly. I will put some pictures up as soon as I can get the USB from the camera to work again.

Additional Photos

2008-11-18T12:10:00.000-08:00

Here is a link to photos that Helmut has on Flickr. He is a professional photographer, so I do not know how many he will actually post to the web. He is here as support crew for Andreas.
http://flickr.com/photos/helmut_dietz/sets/72157609140711934/

Ready for a Transition

2008-11-18T11:42:00.000-08:00

Is it really Tuesday already? Time really does fly when you are having fun. The quintuple race is still close at the top. Wayne is slightly ahead of Andreas with with less than eighty laps to go. Michelle is a few laps behind Andreas (Each lap is 1.92 km). They are all riding laps in the four to five minute range most of the time. It will depend on the sleep strategy, but it looks as though all three should be on the run less than an hour apart. I guess things don't change much, as in most races, it still comes down to the run. Ilka is also not too far back, and she is a good runner, she has done well at single and double irn races in the past. As you know, it is hard to tell a good runner by appearance, but Andreas is built like one, he is tall and lean. With one hundred and thirty miles on foot ahead of them, it will be anyones race. The weather is clear and sunny with daytime temps in the seventies and night-time temps in the forties. Last night went much better than the night before. I think we have a good sleep strategy now, which should help for the run portion. In the big kids race, Kerri from Sweden has moved into second place behind Marcel from Germany. Marcel has been leading for most of the bike portion. Michael G. has slipped a few places but likes his chances. With a two hundred and sixty two mile run, you can easily make up a whole day on a slower runner or one who is not one hundred percent. Hopefully, I can report tonight when the run begins.

A Few More Pics

2008-11-17T16:45:00.000-08:00

Our luxurious dining area.

And here is a shot of the duct tape bento boxes for carrying food. Wayne was keeping stuff in a back jersey pocket, but his arms tightened up and he can not reach behind to get items out of the pockets. If I have time, perhaps I can fabricate a duct tape bike frame and wheels.

Evening of Day Two

2008-11-17T16:20:00.000-08:00

Okay, I think I fixed the posting problem. You can all try to post a comment now. We just returned from a short break so that Wayne could eat some caliente food. Wayne passed the halfway point on the bike this evening and caliente food was our small celebration. As many of you ultra folks know, small victories along the way prove to be extremely helpful. With a strong second half he should be off the bike by Tuesday evening. To put it in perspective, when those of you back home sat down to Sunday dinner, Wayne started the bike portion. You went to bed, got up, went to work, will go to bed tonight, get up for work tomorrow and by the time you come home it will be time to start the run.
The deca race has seen a few changes at the top, as the two mexican racers have moved into second and fourth places. The quint has stayed the same all day with Andreas first, Wayne second, Michelle third and Ilka fourth.

Day Two

2008-11-17T11:09:00.000-08:00

It is Monday about 1:00 p.m. and the race is going well. Evryone seems to have settled into a routine, riding, resting, eating, sleeping, etc. Last night was a bit of a challenge, but we learned alot and tonight should be better. I seemd to have become the community mechanic, which keeps me busy and makes the time pass quickly. Wayne is almost halfway on the bike portion. Andreas, from Germany, is leading the quintuple by about 40 kilometers. Andreas has only slept for one hour so far, compared to three hours for Wayne. I will check in later as events unfold.

An Unexpected Turn

2008-11-16T21:33:00.000-08:00

Here is a pretty cool shot while still in the pool.

What race would be complete without a few bumps along the way. The evening is much cooler than expected and many folks are without the proper gear. We tried to warm Wayne's feet by inserting plastic bags, but that only worked for a few laps. I was able to devise a set of duct tape toe warmers for him, now others are asking for them. I may have to get a taxi to Wal-Mart for more duct tape.

It is 11:40 p.m. on Sunday, and he is about 150 kilometers into the bike. We will stop for solid food around midnight and then sleep at 3:00 a.m. He just flew by and said his feet were toasty now.

Michael G. from Germany has just joined the fray as the first of the decairon competitors onto the bike course. I believe his swim time was under fourteen (14) hours.

Race Day

2008-11-16T15:42:00.000-08:00

Hello all,
The battle has been joined. Wayne arrived on the bike course at 4:53p.m. local time, disguised as a raisin. He was second out of the water after a brisk morning swim. Michelle from South Africa, via San Fransisco was the first athlete to finish the swim. Andreas from Germany is in third place, each is seperated by about twenty minutes. I am using the computer that the race has provided, I will get organized shortly. Night will fall soon and things should settle down. I am also helping Michelle, as she has no crew, but is very self sufficient. I will add another report once I get some warm clothes and and make sure everyone has what they need. I will add some pictures also.

Show Time

2008-11-16T05:28:00.000-08:00

Just a quick note this morning. We are ready to go to the swim venue. Everyone is anxious to go. All of the gear is in place and the athlete´s have their race faces on. It is chilly outside, but should warm up well. I will check in after the swim this evening.

2008-11-15T05:18:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of all the athletes. The race director (Jorge) is the man in the suit at the center of the picture. He is very friendly and seems genuinely concerned that all of the participants have a safe and enjoyable experience. One of the local TV stations was on hand to cover the pre-race. Wayne is on the far right with the red shirt. The fellow in the blue shirt, kneeling in front of Wayne is Harn. He is from Singapore, he has done the double iron in Levi, the triple iron in Germany, the double iron in Hungary, the double iron in Virginia and will do the deca iron this week. All of these races have been since June of this year. (I feel pretty humble.)

Here is a picture of Wayne in front of a downtown hotel where we we going to have the pre-race. It turned out that it was the wrong hotel, so our guide had to recall the bus to pick us up and take us to the correct hotel. Our guide is named Carlos, he speaks little english, but is very friendly and is always smiling.

Hello all, here is my first report from sunny Monterrey. Wayne and I had quite a busy day on Friday. We assembled his bike (more on that later) toured the race venue, met the other athlete's from around the world, went to the pre-race meeting, enjoyed a wonderful seafood buffet at a luxury hotel, shopped in a local supermarket and ate a late dinner at a nearby restaurant that would be similar to an Eat-N-Park in Pittsburgh.

We dropped off our gear at the race village which is nicer than we envisioned. It is an entire sports complex with venues for every sport imaginable. We were expecting the loop course to be fairly spartan, like a big asphalt parking lot. Instead, it is a course that winds through the village, passing many buildings, green areas and trees. This is also the only green area that we have seen in the city, as every square inch of real estate has buildings on it. We will set up tents at the start/finish area and my crewing duties will be centered there. There is a small restaurant a few yards away that we pay in advance for and will have carte blanche once the race begins. The swim venue is very nice and is about 3 kilometers from the bike/run course. The racers will exit the pool, get on their bikes and ride with a police escort to the bike/run course where they will start their many, many laps.

I was not pleased with the way Wayne's bike is set up, but he indicated that it was just fine for him. I will try to locate the correct tools today and make sure that it is in top condition for the race. One of the other competitiors should have what I need. I also helped Michelle from the USA assemble her bike last night. I just can not keep my hands off of other folks hardware.

Michael, a civil engineer from Germany, had dinner with us and engaged us with lots of useful information, as he has done this race refore. One of the most entertaining bits of information was that if you begin to get any stomach discomfort during the race, have a cup of coffee made with local water. The after-effects will clear your system almost immediately and you can then begin to refuel adequately.

We are staying at a Hampton Inn until tomorrow, when we will leave for the race site. The hotel offers us quiet rest, unlike the dorm type rooms at the sports village. I hope to post my first report after the swim on sunday. We are hoping for Wayne to complete the swim in under 9 hours, so that should put us around six o'clock sunday afternoon. We are on central standard time here, so we are an hour behind those of you in Pittsburgh.

2008-11-13T01:43:00.000-08:00

It's time to go. Wayne and I head for the qunituple ironman triathlon today. Just in case you have not yet found it, the race website is: http://www.multisport.com.mx/deca/index.htm
I will keep you posted when the race begins.

2008-11-09T02:35:00.000-08:00

As far as training goes, this past week was a bust. I caught a cold and did not run, cycle or lift weights all week. (I did rake a lot of leaves though) I received an e-mail from Wayne and he has been sick also. I feel better knowing that I will not make him sick next week when he does the quintuple ironman race. I have not felt that bad in a few years. I am chalking it up to all of the races that I did this autumn. I guess that my immune system was overtaxed. Once I return from Monterrey, I will be ready to ramp it up for the Iditarod Trail Invitational (ITI).

I exchanged e-mails with Dave Micklo this week. He was one of the lucky few to get into Western States in 2009. He will be attempting the Grand Slam of Ultrarunning. Chuck also was accepted to WS100, but declined to enter, as he will probably not be ready after doing the ITI with me. As many of you will probably agree, it takes awhile to get your mental attitude right after a really long race.

Dave also mentioned that he would like to put a 50k fun run together at Mingo Creek County Park. We run that course regularly in the winter, and I agreed that it would be nice to have another long run on the schedule. We will work out the details and add it to the list of local runs. Don't forget that we have the Boyce/Mayview run on January 3, 2009. I have a webpage up, send me an e-mail if you want the address, or post a comment.

2008-11-04T02:43:00.000-08:00

This past weekend a few of us from the south hills got together for a run on the newly opened section of the Montour Trail. The new section goes from Hendersonville to the Arrowhead Trail in Peters Township. This section is different than most of the Montour Trail, it has curves, bridges and one tunnel. The weather continues to be mild, so we enjoyed a nice run. Many of the local ultrarunners are starting their winter training routines. There appears to be quite a contingent going to the JFK50 later this month. I will try to get in touch with some of them for a race report.

2008-10-25T03:03:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day that we have had rain in the Pittsburgh area for quite a while. It will be nice to go for a run of a few hours in the rain.
I now winding down from what was a busy running season for me. A couple of fifty mile races, a fifty kilometer race and pacing two marathons in the last eight weeks. I am ready for a little break.
In a few weeks I will be traveling to Monterrey to crew for a friend who is doing a quintuple ironman distance race. I will post the race website shortly.
I will be reporting live from the race venue, as time permits. The race format is a closed course, so the athlete's will be swimming in a pool, cycling and running will be multiple loops.
I will continue to do relatively easy training until I return from Mexico, then the real training for my return trip to Alaska begins.