I run, therefore I am...thirsty

24 hours of running for a worthy cause

2010-04-22T09:34:00.000-07:00

Megan Myers was a 14-year-old freshman at Dana Hills High School when she collapsed from sudden cardiac arrest while running a cross-country race in September 2007. Megan died about an hour later at a hospital from what medical examiners later determined was inflammation of a heart muscle, most likely caused by a virus.

I wrote about Megan for the Orange County Register and her story has stuck with me, as a parent and a runner.

The Megan Myers Memorial Fund raises money to help keep such a tragedy from happening to anyone else. The non-profit uses the money to buy automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and donate the potentially life-saving devices to schools. AEDs are toolbox-size devices meant to be used when a person goes into cardiac arrest. They send bursts of electricity to restart hearts that are quivering instead of pumping. The devices, often used in conjunction with CPR, can save lives before emergency crews arrive.

Continuing a tradition I started last year, I will be running for 24 hours straight on a 1-mile loop to raise money for the Megan Myers Memorial Fund. This is strictly a personal endeavor as part of my involvement in the Nanny Goat 24-Hour race in Riverside on May 29-30. Click here for race details.

If anyone is interested in donating money to this great cause, please send a check to:

Megan Myers Memorial Fund
32565B Golden Lantern #123
Dana Point, CA 92629

All donations are 100-percent tax deductible.

To learn more about AEDs and sudden cardiac arrest in youth, check out these web sites:

www.parentheartwatch.org

www.sads.org

And to learn more about Megan, check out her website here

Me at last year's Nanny Goat -- it got warm!

Leona Divide 50-miler

2010-04-20T12:55:00.000-07:00

Charlie, Olga me and George the evening before the race near Lake Hughes, northeast of Los Angeles.

New race director Keira Henninger and all of her amazing volunteers deserve props for staging an excellent race that was blessed with perfect weather this year. Keira tweaked the course to add more singletrack, which made the course more beautiful and, in my opinion, more challenging.

I finished in 9:49 and change -- not bad, considering I just wanted to finish and was undertrained. That time put me in the top third of finishers, and despite some severe cramping in my legs that set in past mile 40 or so, my body held up pretty well.

Because I now am devoting more of my running-related writing to the Rundown.net, I mostly will use this blog for photos and short recaps of my runs. Multitasking has gotten the best of me.

Stay tuned for your opportunity to contribute to a GREAT cause as I embark, once again, on the Nanny Goat 24-Hour race at Shelli Sexton's horse ranch in Riverside.

Other images from the Leona Divide 50-miler:

Robert stretches minutes before the race

Pre-race madness

Me at mile 38

Back on track

2010-04-01T11:49:00.001-07:00

My "home trail" for training, the Santiago Truck Trail, Orange County

I have three upcoming races and hope to be doing a lot more running than I have in the last six months.

Temporary insanity?

Yes.

Looking forward to Leona Divide 50-miler in April, El Moro 50k (inaugural race) in May, and right after El Moro, a return to Riverside for the 24-hour Nanny Goat! YES!

Still insane?

Yup.

Twin Peaks 50/50

2010-01-20T10:35:00.000-08:00

I have signed up for the Twin Peaks 50-miler on Feb. 13 -- a Valentine's Day gift to myself as I work my way back into a more consistent race schedule. Foot and knee issues have kept my running to a minimum recently, but I hope to make 2010 a great running year!

My first ultra was the Twin Peaks 50-miler in January 2007. How can I not do this one? My friend Jessice Deline is the RD. Here's hoping for better weather this year at Twin Peaks! Last year's blizzard-like version was even worse than the recent Chimera 100, which was cancelled after runners got in about 40 miles.

Happy running!

Vibram sweepstakes announcement

2009-12-09T11:47:00.001-08:00

I have been lame lately at blog updates. Am getting ready for the Chimera 100 miler (not really) so here's something to chew over, courtesy of the good folks at Vibram:

"Vibram is getting psyched for the winter by partnering with Jackson Hole for the Grip Your World Giveaway sweepstakes from now through Dec. 10 to give away weekly prizes including Burton and K2 snowboard boots, and Vibram Five Fingers.

"One grand prize winner will also win a 5-day trip to Jackson Hole for two, including airfare, hotel and lift tickets. It’s also ridiculously easy to enter (no long forms or excessive fields, etc.), which is a big bonus. Check it out here: http://www.gripyourworld.com/.”

Saddleback Marathon

2009-11-19T09:38:00.000-08:00

It's been a while. I have been too busy to keep my postings up to date, but plan to be better about it. Lots of stuff going on.

I have been slacking on the running, so I wasn't sure how I would fare as a first-time runner of Baz Hawley's "magical" Saddleback Trail Marathon. I had never run it before but have volunteered at the race, which starts and ends at Blue Jay Campground in the Santa Ana Mountains off Ortega Highway.

David Whiting and Bill Ramsey

The weather was perfect: sunny, but with the chill of autumn in the air. I also appreciated the relatively late 8 a.m. start, having gotten out of the habit lately of running at insanely early hours of the morning.

I told myself I would take it easy, given the daunting 5,100 feet of climbing (making this the toughest marathon in California, reportedly), but of course I didn't. Because I was feeling good at the start, I pushed myself up the steep, 3-mile climb up the Main Divide that marks the start of the marathon.

Charlie Nickell in his new shirt -- awesome!

From there, I blasted the four or so miles down the at-times treacherous Trabuco Trail -- but since my strength is uphills, I wasn't blasting fast enough and got passed on the downhill by four or five runners, including my buddy Martin "James Bond" Brooks. I am a conservative downhill runner -- I have fallen too many times LOL.

I swung into the Holy Jim Canyon aid station to be greeted by my great friend Keira, who was manning the station solo. It's always great to see the lovely and upbeat Keira during a race. She's a natural motivator and I needed motivation to get up the next stretch of the race -- the 4.8-mile Holy Jim trail, a steep climb with several punishing switchbacks. The Holy Jim trail is one of my favorites when I am out for a "fun" run, but not my favorite when it comes to races.

I ran some of Holy Jim and power-walked through other portions. By the time I got to the top of Holy Jim, also known as Bear Springs, I was in serious need of some fuel/motivation and got it in the form of seeing my buddy Kirk and his fiancee Stephanie, who plied me with some flat Coke and pretzels.

From this point on, I started to get my second wind and felt strong running the roller-coaster-like hills of the Main Divide for about 6 miles, looping back to the top of the Trabuco Trail before finishing the marathon by barreling down the 3-mile-long screaming downhill to the finish line at Blue Jay.

The amazing Tommy Nielsen

I finished in 4:14 and change, good enough for a top 20 finish (I was 16th) which always is my goal. I wasn't in the best of shape but was pleased with my performance. Funny, but I prefer 50-milers -- marathons and 50ks to me seem too much like races; I feel rushed. But as far as trail marathons go, Baz's Saddleback Trail Marathon is a stunner and should be on every ultrarunner's list of must-dos. Great fun, with a close-knit feel to it.

To read David Whiting's take on the race in the OC Register, click here.

Hi pam!

2009-10-04T19:06:00.000-07:00

Chimera 100-miler

2009-09-09T17:31:00.001-07:00

Unless somebody talks me out of this quickly, I am good to go for the first-ever running of the Chimera 100.

Why?

The race, the brainchild of sadistic Old Goats RD Steve Harvey, is in my backyard. Heck, one of the aid stations is 1.2 miles from my pad in Silverado Canyon.

There is a 100k option (62 miles), and if sanity prevails, I may opt for "only" that. But it's tough to turn down a 100-miler in Orange County.

Steve Harvey, sadist

This run, which goes around and over the two peaks of the Saddleback Mountains, certainly looks extremely daunting. Though I have run every inch of the course in portions, running it all at once certainly will be extremely brutal. This puppy has to rank as one of the toughest 100-milers in the United States.

Heck, the 100K version sounds insane: That 62-mile, figure-eight course has more than 32,000 feet of elevation change and is rated one of the toughest 100K trail races in the country.

I don't even want to think about the stats for the 100-miler.

But what the heck. If I can't finish it, I will walk home.

Educate thyself

2009-08-27T10:09:00.000-07:00

These folks, my buds who are part of the "Dawn Patrol" group every Tuesday at El Moro, know how to run.

I am a renegade of sorts, doing my own thing when it comes to running and not paying much attention to the science of running and what I put in my body. And I absolutely hate to stretch.

In the interest of educating myself (boy, do I need to wake up), I am posting here a lengthy but very useful article, 100 Essential Health and Nutrition Tips for Avid Runners, that originally appeared on the Web site of the Online Nurse Practitioner Schools.

Portions of the article are reprinted here with the permission of Online Nurse Practitioner Schools.

I am listing here the first 14 tips -- because 14 is my favorite number, and because I do not have the time to list them all LOL.

Be sure to click on the links!

Enjoy!

100 Essential Health and Nutrition Tips for Avid Runners
Although running is a solo sport, preparing for it doesn’t have to be. Avid runners, as well as beginners, can find all sorts of help for health, nutrition, and more by stopping by these 100 top tips and sites made just for runners.

Best Stretches for Avid Runners
Because stretching is essential for runners to avoid sprains, soreness and other injuries, check out these leading stretches.

1. Stretching for Runners: The experts at "Runner's World" give you loads of help for preparing for that run. Get stretches for hamstring, calves, back, and more.

2. Calf and Ankle Stretching Routine: Coach Nicole is from SparkPeople and shows you how to do this in three short minutes. Also useful for those wearing shin splints.

3. Running Flexibility: Mark Coogan teaches you how to prevent injury and increase flexibility with sports stretches designed specifically for runners. A jump rope is used in this short clip.

4. Lower Body Stretching Routine: This video will help you stretch your lower body without any equipment. Coach Nicole will take you through one short set of six different stretches that target your thighs, quads, hamstrings, and calves.

5. Basketball Flexibility: Chip Schaefer, Director of Athletic Performance & Player Development for the L.A. Lakers, guides you through a fitness program to keep your muscles limber. In 13 minutes, you can stretch like the NBA players do.

6. Body Stretching Routine: This stretching routine is done by lying on a mat. Four stretches target your lower body.

7. Best Stretches-Running: Stay limber and prevent injury with this stretch routine. Purchase for $9.99 or preview for free.

8. Midrun Injuries: Another guide from Runner's World, it shows you the most common running issues and how to deal with them. Get information on cramps, blisters, stitches, sprains, and more.

Best Warm Ups for Avid Runners
Going into a run cold can be dangerous. Try these warm ups to get going like the pros do.

9. Running Active Warm Up: Mark Coogan shows you one of the most vital elements and routines before a run. In eight short minutes, you will learn both upper and lower body warm ups.

10. Yoga for Runners: Do these poses before, after or in between runs to de-stress. Choose from Strike A Pose or 3 Pre-Run Yoga Poses.

11. Yoga and Running: Similar to the above, this article shows you how to use yoga to stay limber for a run. Supplies and positions also are shown.

12. Tegankamp Core Warm Up: He is the American record holder for two miles. Here he shows you how he warms up for a run in this short video.

13. Mental Endurance Training: Because running is as much mental as it is physical, check out this article to see how to warm up your mind. These tips can also help you break barriers and run longer.

14. General Strength Exercises: These exercises will help make you a stronger, faster, more efficient runner who is less susceptible to injury. Five videos are included.

You get the picture.

Be sure to check out the complete list of 100 tips here.

Catalina running

2009-08-22T06:56:00.000-07:00

Here are some images from a short (8-mile) but very sweet run this week while camping with the kids at Two Harbors. Most of these photos were taken near where the turnaround point is during the Avalon Benefit 50-Mile Run, held in January. Love it!

Ultra-airhead

2009-08-11T13:47:00.000-07:00

After the damage was done.

The Mt. Disappointment 50-miler on Aug. 8. was my 10th 50-miler (and 19th official ultra race that I have completed; still no DNFs, knock on wood) since I ran my first race beyond marathon distance in January 2007.

Despite all this trail running, I still consider myself an ultra-idiot -- meaning, I don't know the answers to anything, really, when it comes to running ultras, except what works best for me.

I did well, finishing in 10:08. That time was much better than last year, when (according to my Garmin) I finished in 11:18, although my official time was 11:32 (the timekeeper admitted he failed to mark my time when I crossed the finish last year -- oh well, who cares, right?)

So I did well, and I wonder why.

Certainly, it was cooler this year. Last year's temp hit 105 in the dreaded canyons, and it was at least 15 degrees cooler this year.

That helped a lot.

I also wore a hat, which kept the sun off my face. I absolutely hate hats, but will never run another race without one (thanks, Jane).

Thinking about why I did well, I think it may have had to do with my mindset .

When it comes to races, my head now is much less cluttered with crap, and my body less encumbered with crap, than it was when I was an ultra-newbie.

And when it comes to ultras, simplicity helps -- for me.

I no longer run races with a camera -- as much as I would love to document the experience.

I have ditched waist-packs and bladders on the back in favor of two hand-held bottles, relying on aid stations for most of my fueling.

I have discovered that music isn't a necessity (though it's a nice option).

I no longer wear a Garmin, finding that it won't change my finish time. Makes sense, eh?

He makes the girls swoon: Recently devirginized Badwater runner Dennis Koors signs his life away.

I have to pop electrolyte pills every hour, so I can't ditch a watch.

Watching how the fast runners do it, I've noticed that most of these super athletes keep things real simple.

They don't carry a lot of stuff, and thus seem to be...lighter, of the mind and spirit and body.

Yeah, I think lightness works, when it comes to ultras.

The Incredible Lightness of Running.

Lightness, as in air.

As in ultra-airhead.

The thing about Mt. Dis, in my opinion, is not to get too excited at the start -- and to save gas for two gnarly hills that can kill you (the 50k runners only have to worry about one bummer climb: the notorious 4.5-mile climb on the Kenyon Devore trail, to the finish at the summit.)

The race starts at the summit of Mt. Wilson, which is stabbed with pointy towers but from which an incredible view of the L.A. basin can be enjoyed. Runners plod downhill on a curvy, asphalt road (the one they drove up to the start) for a few miles before hitting dirt -- where the real work begins.

Lovely scenery atop the summit of Mt. Wilson

The number of miles on the beginning stretch of asphalt was extended this year, to about 5 miles from 2 miles, because RD Gary Hilliard could not get permits for the trail portion that starts at around mile 2 because of damage caused by rock slides.

I tried to hold myself back from running too fast down the pavement. Plus, I didn't feel great -- just felt sorta tired.

I had forgotten how rocky and technical some singletrack sections of Mt. Dis are -- so large do the hills loom in this race.

But yeah, Mt. Dis is a fairly technical course. Runners have to really watch their step in several sections, or risk falling down steep slopes.

Really, though, Mt. Dis is about those two hills: the 4.5-mile finish, and, for the 50-milers, the long, seemingly endless climb (four miles? Five?) on winding fireroad to the Shortcut aid station (mile 41). Something about this stretch is brutal. Gee, I don't know, maybe it's the heat. Also, the climb comes at 30-plus miles into the race. Yeah, that could be a factor.

This year, I loaded up on fluids and packed my two hand-helds with ice before tackling the stretch to Shortcut, which actually starts off with a nice, extended downhill on runnable fireroad.

The incomparable Jill Childers. Why didn't the boys get pink shirts, too?

Knowing, through experience, that the climb eventually does end, I power-walked up this beast, doing my best to scare away thoughts of dehyrdation -- or worse.

Mastering mental games is a key to finishing an ultra, assuming you have properly taken care of your body (fluids, food, electrolytes). And it's on climbs like this that the mental games really set in. I just concentrated on moving, and eventually the nightmarish climb ended.

You just tell yourself that the bad moments will pass, and you keep moving. Now look at me: I am writing this in an air-conditioned room.

See?

Eventually, things do get better. And to tackle Mt. Dis, that's the mindset one needs.

Mt. Dis truly is a fun, beautiful course. The problem is, so many runners suffer on the hills, and that misery tends to cloud out most other memories (including the wonderful conversations with fellow runners and the priceless interactions with the volunteers -- Gabor, you rule!).

The word "masochism" gets tossed around a lot when it comes to Mt. Dis.

Well, yeah, I guess one could make that argument. But I also think that sitting in front of a laptop is pretty masochistic, too -- and at work, I'm not allowed to pretty much pee wherever I want.

So gimme the "masochism" of Mt. Dis any day.

Let's keep thing simple.

Mt. Disappointment

2009-08-09T20:59:00.000-07:00

I had a good day!

I will try to wrap my head around it when I locate my head.

Am not sure about what place I was overall (somewhere under 20), but I finished the 50-miler in 10 hours and 8 minutes -- 70 minutes faster than last year. I'm either getting stupider or smarter. LOL.

I love this race!

Operation Jack

2009-08-07T13:24:00.000-07:00

Jack Felsenfeld, 5 1/2, has autism.

We all have our reasons for running -- some of them elaborate, complex backstories, others more simple ("I want to get rid of these unsightly love handles!")

Some stories are too good to pass up. This is one of them.

A reader of this blog, Deirdre Egan Edwards, recently referred me to one of her running pals, Sam Felsenfeld.

Next year, Felsenfeld will be undertaking an extraordinary journey.

Felsenfeld, 34, of Foothill Ranch, has an autistic boy, Jack, 5 1/2, along with two other healthy children, Benjamin, 8, and Ava, 3 1/2, with his wife of 10 years, Tiffany, 33.

To raise awareness and money for autism charities, Felsenfeld will attempt next year to run at least one marathon a week , for a planned total of 60.

Runners can support him by signing up for one of his marathons and raising money through pledges. For details, visit www.operationjack.com.

Almost all of money will go to Train 4 Autism, which raises money for various autism charities (runners can select which autism charity the money will go to).

"I'm hoping we end up topping $250,000, but I have no idea," Felsenfeld says. "I'm hoping for 1,000 people to participate nationwide, and if they average $250 raised through our various fundraising efforts, then we're looking at $250,000.

"I really don't have any idea, but if we hit $250,000, I'd be absolutely thrilled. My real goal is that this generates long-term growth for Train 4 Autism. I really think it can be like a Team In Training for the autism world."

Jack, born Sept. 16, 2003, was diagnosed with autism shortly after he turned 3, although he has been in constant therapy and treatment since before his second birthday.

He is showing signs of progress, but has very limited speech. He struggles with communication and social interaction.

Felsenfeld considers it a gift to be in the position he's in to raise money through running.

When he was 16, he broke his neck in a swimming-pool accident.

"I was lucky I wasn't paralyzed," he says.

Never fast or athletic, and partial to partying while in college, Felsenfeld's weight soared to 261 -- about 60 pounds more than it should have been.

A former smoker, Felsenfeld started walking less than five years ago. Walking turned into slow jogging, and eventually, slow jogging turned into his first marathon.

"I'm never going to win any races, but I know I'm a fairly decent runner and there has to be a reason why my legs were spared," he says.

"I also think there has to be a reason my son was born severely autistic, because an innocent child shouldn't face the lifelong struggles he will.

"I really think this might be a good opportunity to make a purpose out of it all."
Felsenfeld has completed 25 marathons and two ultramarathons (Malibu Canyon 50K and the PCT 50, both this year), and he has 11 Boston qualifiers and a personal-best time of 3:00:05.

"Someday I'll revisit trails," he says of ultrarunning. "They're a whole different beast, though. I'm pretty much a road warrior right now."

Tiffany is training for her first marathon, Long Beach, in October. She is hoping to qualify for the Boston Marathon and join her husband there next year.

For more information, visit www.operationjack.com, or contact Felsenfeld at sam.felsenfeld@gmail.com or (949) 292-1432.

A chat with Mt. Disappointment RD Gary Hilliard

2009-07-31T19:35:00.000-07:00

Gary hands out awards after the 2007 race.

The weather is hot, the Lakers are in the offseason, parents are pulling their hair out figuring out what to do with their kids --- yup, it must be time for one of the toughest and best ultras around, the perfectly named Mt. Disappointment. Not that this race is a bummer, but it can destroy you -- and we ultrarunners love that.

The race is held in the San Gabriel Mountains on and around Mt. Wilson in the heat of summer -- just to make sure runners won't have it easy. Hah, the hills are enough to kill you!

Mt. Dis is a must for every ultrarunner, in my opinion. It never fails to bring even the best runners to their knees.

Inches from the finish line

So, am I a sick puppy to want to deal with this beast every year -- and to recommend it to all runners?

Of course! LOL.

I prefer to view Mt. Dis as my annual "gut check," and a great day in the mountains that is sure to test the mettle of all runners.

It's fun. I swear it is! I will be running the 50-miler this year -- my second in a row. I started with the 50k in 2007.

With the 2009 running of Mt. Dis one week away, I decided to check in with venerable race director Gary Hilliard.

Gary, who has friends far and wide, is one of the most respected names in Southern California ultrarunning.

He genially agreed to answer some lame-o questions ahead of race day on Aug. 8. The race officially is sold out, but schmooze him and he may let you in.

So, Gary, lay it on us!

Q. Your race has one of the coolest names anywhere.

Actually, "Mt. Wilson" was taken and the next mountain we summit in the race is Mt. Disappointment.

The oddity of it all is that it really is the first mountain the runners climb after the start. The mountain was named because a frustrated survey party in the 1800s was trying to identify the tallest mountain in the Mt. Wilson area.

The party climbed to the top and realized San Gabriel Peak was taller, right next door...thus it became Mt. Disappointment.

True story.

Q. How has the race evolved over the years, in terms of runner interest/course layout?

The course has stayed the same from a training routine I developed with my running partners, Mike Malnin and Fausto Rowlan.

Some of the best aid stations around...

Runner interest just continues to explode both with women and men. The other phenomeon is that "the harder you make it...the more will come and try!"

Q. What's the most common thing you hear from runners who have completed the 50k and the 50 miler?

The 50k people love it and say they are now ready for the 50-miler. The 50-mile people just come in, flop down, look wide-eyed, and mutter, "Epic....just epic."

Q. What makes Mt. Disappointment unique from other ultras?

I think we have an incredible energy created from our aid stations, volunteers, and finish-line amenities. I mean that we are hard workers who put everything we have into this event.

Q. How has your recovery gone since your motorcycle accident shortly after last year's race?

I was going to volunteer at a training run, marking the trail for runners to follow. I never made it. I had a motorcycle accident and needed life flight to Los Angeles County General/USC Trauma Center.

I lost a right kidney.

I lost half the use of my left kidney.

I severed my spleen, I severed a spleen artery and I severed and lost a small piece of liver.

I broke my back and neck in four places, broke my left arm/wrist, and broke my right elbow.

I suffered multiple puntures in my right lung, broke three ribs, and suffered a brain hemotoma and a concussion.

My health is a daily issue, but I am alive to just be concerned about
it. I mean that in a good way.

I wasn't supposed to make it, but I did, and I am happy for it! I wasn't ready to leave...I am not finished yet.

Q. Give us your take on the ultrarunning scene today. For example, do you see the ultra scene becoming more mainstream? Are there too few or too many races?

It's not the races, it's the racers!

The events will survive and blossom if they are good events. It's the runners that have changed in the sport.

Like many things in today's society, there are those who have that feeling of entitlement, maybe because they paid an entry fee. Everything is expected by that type of person...they want to purchase rather than work hard and hurt deep.

The sport has definitely changed with the influx of the one-day extreme adventurer. Today, running shoes -- tomorrow, an ultra.

Today, REI-purchased gear -- tomorrow, a mountain to climb.

Today, a hunting rifle -- tomorrow...maybe I should stop there.

Q. What would you tell a runner who is considering doing his or her first ultra?

Train when you have tired legs. Take baths. Just sit in there...in the tub...just sit.

Walk the uphills, run what you think you should be running...never stop drinking. DON'T STOP DRINKING!

Q Describe the perfect aid station.

Mt. Disappointment aid stations, of course! Essential are cold fluids. Hot food. Sweets. Some grilled food. Pizza, snacks, energy drinks, music.

You also need a ham radio team for safety issues. Crew access also is important. So are weather updates. And don't forget rub-downs, especially if the race is an all-nighter). Also cots, if needed -- gotta keep warm!

Q. Who are some of your favorite ultrarunners?

Jorge Pacheco, Errol Jones, Ann Trason, Eric Clifton, Tommy Neilson, Hal Winton, Mike
Malinin, my friends like Fausto, Gabor, Hollis. And all my trail-worker friends!

Q. Besides Mt. Disappointment, what is your favorite ultra, and why?

These are not in any certain order, but I like the AC 100 -- it's a one-way mountain extreme! I liked Badwater. I thought it was the most unbelievable crew race. Your crew is with you every step! That's really incredible.

I like the PCT 50 in San Diego. I like the high-desert burnt courses, I guess. Now that I think about it, all three of these races are in the high desert, and burnt.

I also like stuff like big street marathons like the L.A. Marathon, etc. At those BIG marathons, there are a lot of people who are doing maybe the biggest athletic undertaking of their life.

Even if I don't know them...I was there. Those people are out there...I was there. They don't know me from Adam...I was there.

I was there.

Think about it...I was there.

Crewing Badwater

2009-07-20T11:42:00.001-07:00

Kira and Leigh pound the pavement

I've been chewing over what to say, and how to say it, since crewing/pacing for Leigh Corbin at Badwater July 12-15. I still don't know what to say or how to say it, other than, "Wow."

Leigh in her packed van of essentials on the way to the start of the Badwater Ultramarathon -- 135 miles in 120-degree heat and 13,000 feet of climbing.

Lynne, Alexa, George and Robert. Not pictured: Kira and me.

Crewing Badwater was incredibly strenuous, both mentally and physically, but immensely satisfying. It is so gratifying to know that our crew of six -- me, Alexa, George, Robert, Kira and Lynne -- played a key role in getting Leigh to the finish line. She, of course, did the running and deserves full credit for completing this grueling 135-mile test of -- I dunno, stamina? Sanity? Yes, among other things...

Leigh and Robert cooling off under the misters in Furnace Creek, the afternoon before the race started at 6 a.m. Monday, July 13 (for Leigh)

I had heard horror stories about crewing Badwater -- how I shouldn't do it, how I would hate it because I would be miserable (the heat, lack of sleep, dealing with cranky people in cramped quarters, etc).

A few folks told me it would be a tough, but a great and unforgettable experience -- one of those indelible life memories that never fade. They were right. Because although crewing Badwater was hard work and, at times, uncomfortable, it wasn't at all hellish or borderline insane, and it proved to be one of my most amazing experiences as a runner.

George dribbles near the start.

Why?

Everyone is different, but for me, the communal experience is what resonated: hanging out with fellow runners, working together, overcoming challenges together, cheerleading Leigh together -- without a crew, there would be no runner, and it felt good to recede into the background and do what we could to get our runner to the finish line.

Nothing else mattered as much as taking care of Leigh -- not being tired and cranky at times, not dying for a nap or craving a dip in the chilly Pacific Ocean. We were there for Leigh and that spirit imbued everything we did.

Kira with Leigh's prized pink crown.

It's hard to describe the heat of Death Valley in July without resorting to cliches. When the wind blows -- and it does, fiercely at times -- it feels like standing in front of an open oven door. It is an all-consuming heat, but (thank God) a dry heat.

Truly, I have felt more uncomfortable running near the coast in Orange County in July and dripping like an Olympic swimmer because of the humidity. During Badwater, I barely sweated. The heat sucks the moisture out of you before it gets a chance to escape your skin in the form of sweat.

George keeps his cool with Leigh.

I have worked aid stations and paced a runner before -- Robert, at the AC100 a couple of years ago -- and those experiences were very gratifying. Imagine working at a moving aid station, and pacing a runner off and on, for two days straight with little rest, and you get an idea of what Badwater was like. Toss in the heat and the magical, almost mythical vibe of the run and you are in for a special treat -- a treat that tastes all the sweeter for the incredible effort it takes to complete such an insane race.

Leigh's magic medicine bag

So, are the runners who do Badwater insane? How about the crew members? I think we are all searching for something, and pushing ourselves to thoroughly immerse ourselves in some deep experience. Saying that, I'll take "insane" any day over, what -- dull? Routine. Wouldn't you?

All of us, sans Leigh

As I write this, a fan is whirling overhead and I am drinking cold water. I am comfortable. This comfort feels all the better for having crewed at Badwater. Going through a somewhat traumatic experience (physically and, to some degree, emotionally) tends to simplify things -- at least for me.

I cannot approximate through words the true experience of crewing at Badwater -- the hilarious episodes, the stress, the little bursts of drama that inevitably erupted due to seven people (some strangers) being thrusted into something so all-encompassing, but highlights include:

Robert the terrorist (or KKK member?), Lexie and Leigh

* Kira and I amusing ourselves to no end by telling each other stupid jokes and spinning imaginary life stories about some of the runners. Fatigue and boredom and heat can result in gut-busting laughter. It sure did for Kira and I (and others, but we really cracked each other up). One needs to laugh if one wants to have a good time crewing at Badwater.

* The brief but luxurious sleeps at Panamint Springs (mile 42) and Stovepipe Wells (mile 70) in air-conditioned rooms that George was able to secure, with the help of Leigh and others. Those short rests (maybe adding up to six hours) made all the difference to me. I was expecting to pull all-nighters or, at best, crash in or under our support van. Luckily, I actually got to rest a bit on real beds in 70-degree rooms. Heaven!

Ice bandanas are a necessity, and they feel GREAT!

* The unforgettable starry nights. Kira said it best: "The stars look like diamonds from heaven." Girl, you should be writing this, instead of me.

People keep asking me now that I've crewed, do I ever want to run Badwater? I'm confident I can finish it. But do I want to? I don't know. It's more of a survival run than, say, a brutal but scenic 50-miler (or 100-miler, for that matter) in the mountains.

Seeing other runners (like Cheryl Z., right, with pacer Wendy) was a constant treat. We all cheered each other on!

A big issue for me is pavement: Badwater is all on pavement. Still, this is Badwater we're talking about, man!

Fatigue was a constant factor

Assuming I would ever be accepted into the race (it's by invitation only), I would have to say, yes -- of course I want to run it. But I have no aching desire to run it now (like, next year). I need a little more experience, anyway (a few more 100-milers, more crewing and trail work).

We had two cars, but only one could be with the runners. The six crew members were divided into teams of three (George, Alexa, Lynne on one team, me, Kira and Robert on the other) and worked six hours on, six off.

You have to really want to finish a 100-miler if you expect to finish one, I once was told. That is so true. The fire in the belly has to be strong enough to extinguish self-doubt, bone-deep pain, nausea and any other annoyances that are likely to erupt during a long run.

Me and Leigh, early on (mile 10?)

And so it goes with Badwater. When I wake up and feel that fire in my belly -- when I just know that now is the time to do it -- I will, if the running gods smile on me.

For now, I feel blessed to have had the privilege of experiencing even just a sliver of what Leigh got to experience. For that, dear Leigh, I am forever indebted to you. Much love and good vibes! And thank you, fellow crew members, for putting up with me. You are all heroic!

XO

More images:

On the way to Badwater, before our work began

Robert, at your service

Kira (licensed massage therapist) gives Leigh a much-needed working over.

Lovely Kira

George, Lynne and Robert at the pre-race briefing

With Lynne

Leigh's first real rest, at the top of Towne Pass at around mile 60.

You go where you go.

We had lost these for a while.

I put sunscreen everywhere

Badwater (very) briefly

2009-07-15T14:10:00.000-07:00

Leigh Corbin at around mile 90. She would hit a low point (among lows) at mile 95.

Oh wow, Badwater was an amazing experience in all senses of the word -- the good, the bad and the bizarre.

Will be doing a story on Leigh Corbin, who I helped crew and pace, that is set to appear Friday afternoon on the Orange County Register Web site and in the newspaper on Saturday. I have a lot to absorb and a lot to write about.

All I can say now is that every ultrarunner should make it a point to be involved in this race somehow, someday as a runner or crew member. It's truly a one-of-a-kind deal and I am thankful I was able to play a small part in this incredible 135-mile test of the human spirit this year.

I am so proud of Leigh and our crew and all the other runners!

I also am glad to be back home, where the weather is relatively mild.

Leigh earned the coveted Badwater belt buckle by finishing in 44 hours and 17 minutes. The cutoff for earning a buckle was 46 hours.

The girl can run : )

A spiritual level of surrender

2009-07-07T14:17:00.000-07:00

Every ultrarunner thinks about it. Most of us dismiss it as foolhardy or crazy or something so beyond our grasp that we can't take it seriously. Badwater, we tell ourselves, truly is a race only for "really crazy" runners -- an exercise (exorcism?) in masochism that would be comical if it weren't so scary.

Well, I'm about to get a close-up look at Badwater -- and I am simultaneously thrilled and terrified. I have the honor to be a crew member/pacer for Leigh Corbin, a dear friend, super lady, loving mother, and special soul.

The Badwater Ultramarathon has evolved into mythical proportions. Even non-runners have asked me, "Have you run that Death Valley thing?"

The race unfolds every July during the heat of summer in the hottest, driest place in North America. Temperatures at the starting line this year are expected to be around 120 F, and dropping to the 90s at night. The race starts Monday morning, July 13. Our crew is heading out Sunday and we will be back Thursday.

The 135-mile Badwater Ultramarathon begins in a long, narrow basin 282 feet below sea level and winds up through high, steep mountain ranges, ending at the portal to Mount Whitney, some 8,360 feet above sea level.

The entire race is run on simmering asphalt.

Leigh just wants to finish within the 60-hour cutoff time. I will be joining crew chief and friend George Velasco, as well as fellow crew members Alexa Dickerson and Robert Baird, and two other women (both veteran runners), Kira Matukaitis and Lynne Hewitt, who I have not had the pleasure of meeting.

I plan to file dispatches if my laptop does not melt and if there is reception, but who knows?

The desert is a place is mystery. I fully expect my Badwater experience to reach a spiritual level of surrender.

I am just crewing; I can only imagine what it's like to actually run Badwater, a word that triggers a rush of conflicting emotions -- dread mixed with a seductive sense of danger, terror tinged with a tingly sense of excitement.

Leigh is primed to finish in beautiful form. She has the chops to conquer this beast. Among her many running accomplishments are Western States (2007), Marathon des Sables (2008), Coyote 2 Moon (2009) and the 100-mile San Diego One Day (2005).

Leigh blames Robert for getting her into Badwater.

"He called me one day and said, 'Leigh, when you run Badwater, I want to be on your crew.'

"'But Robert,' I said, 'I don't ever want to run Badwater.' And that is how it started."

Leigh's birthday is tomorrow, Wednesday, July 7. Please wish her a happy birthday, and good luck at Badwater! We love you Leigh!

The group thang

2009-07-03T11:32:00.000-07:00

Just some of the runners who kept Michelle M. (center, back) company during her "Elmorothon."

Had the greatest group run this morning in El Moro, where Michelle M. did her annual "Elmorothon," logging 26.2 miles -- just for the heck of it.

Shannon didn't have time to braid her hair : )

And what a group!

I only ran 14 miles, along with Pammie and Shannon and Laurie (Pam's friend visiting from Colorado), but we started with a group of 14 that had swelled to more than 20 by the time Michelle was on her second of three loops.

What a gas!

I run a lot solo but this morning was a reminder of how fun the group thang can be.

What a great time!

I look stoned.

Michael V. runs in these "skins" by Vibram because shoes were screwing up his knees.

Pam, Laurie and Shannon

iMichelle, Mark M. and the lead singer of Twisted Sister

Pete "RePete" Kalet and pal

Post-run cinnamon and custard concoction from Pacific Whey bakery.

Best feet forward

2009-07-01T14:26:00.000-07:00

So I've been asked to test a shoe -- finally, after 252 posts, someone throws me a bone!

I'm somewhat of a simpleton when it comes to reviews. I mean, "feels great!" means a lot to me -- but doesn't mean jack to other folks. I'll do my best to be instructive.

The shoe is the Patagonia Release ($110), with outsoles by Vibram -- the maker of high-performance rubber soles that successfully hunted me down to do this review, despite me being part of the federal Witness Protection Program. Guys, good luck with Vinnie the Shark. Now, he's your problem.

Anyway, I've worn just about every kind of shoe imaginable in my 10 years as a runner (the last three as a trailrunner) and I've only run across a couple of clunkers (that shall remain nameless -- I've been on a good karma kick lately). If I had to guess, I've mostly run in Salomons. I like them, although the laces can get annoying.

Really, at heart, I'm a brand slut -- moving from shoe to shoe depending on the price. But it's OK, I use protection -- as in plastic, as in credit card.

So, what about these shoes?

Well, honestly, until now, I had never paid much attention to the technical aspects of shoes: how they are crafted and shaped, what materials go into them, etc. Thanks to Vibram, I am turning into a shoe geek.

Why? These puppies are that good.

I laced them up and took them on a steep and rocky uphill: the Silverado Trail, which rises 2,100 feet in 3.1 miles. The grip was fabulous, even on the loose rocks.

Vibram outsoles boast great traction -- unlike the rear wheel of this motorcycle racer.

The shoes were cushy but did not feel heavy. They fit snugly but did not strangle off my circulation.

Running down the winding switchbacks, I felt pretty confident as there was no slippage. Also, my feet did not slide around inside the shoe -- a problem I have had with other brands.

I thought: What the heck is going on here?

A key, I'm convinced, is Vibram's expertly crafted outsole. The "lugs" are beveled differently on the front and back of the shoe, giving you good traction while climbing and solid grip on downhills. The outsole are super thin, too -- which probably explains why the shoes don't feel like hiking boots, although technically they are a multisport shoe and not exclusively for trailrunning.

Grip, baby, grip! Patagonia Release trail-running shoes has it.

I have put about 120 miles on my Patagonia Releases and they still feel great. I am sold. What's more, the shoes are vegan friendly because of the all-synthetic construction (he wrote, while chomping on a corned-beef sandwich).

Hmm...maybe I'll turn monogamous and stop being a brand slut -- but boy, was that fun while it lasted! * sigh *

(For you technical geeks, click on the photo below to enlarge it. Have fun. Don't forget to take off your propeller hat before going into public).

Running stores seek to keep a step ahead

2009-06-29T17:19:00.000-07:00

Ted Newcomb

Ted Newcomb runs 5½ miles to work each day and then back home – a 55-mile weekly "commute."

Good thing he manages a running store.

Not only does he never run out of stuff to wear, but his workday runs also serve as free advertising – his store's logo is plastered on his shirts and shorts.

For neighborhood retailers like a Runners High, which Newcomb manages and partly owns, guerrilla marketing is the key to survival.

Other neighborhood running stores like The Run Shop in Laguna Niguel find that forging strong ties in the community can mean the difference between thriving and barely surviving.

Scott White (right)

Located in the Walnut Village Shopping Center, at Culver and Walnut, Runners High doesn't have close to the marketing budget of a huge competitor like Dick's Sporting Goods (which recently acquired the Chick's chain).

So, Newcomb has to be creative.

"We have to reach out to people in every way we can," says the 62-year-old veteran runner.

The Irvine location of Runners High – formerly the site of a Polly's Pies – has been open since February 2008. The retailer dates back 30 years, with two stores in Long Beach.

The primary owner is Jeff Tribole, a competitive runner and teacher who has coached and trained runners since 1971.

To generate foot traffic in the Irvine store, Newcomb has reached out to local high-school cross-country and track coaches.

He also has made friends with the Irvine Police Department, which has several officers who participate in the well-known Baker-to-Vegas relay footrace.

Newcomb is an expert on feet and proper foot care.

"Did you know that there are 60,000 sweat glands in each foot?" he says.

Stressing he is not a doctor himself, Newcomb says many area podiatrists refer patients to Runners High because of his knowledge of running and foot mechanics.

Runners High also features regular sales to attract customers. One ongoing sale is shoes for $69.99 that regularly sell for $99.99.

Newcomb says he also regularly slashes $5 to $10 off the posted price of shoes, clothing and running accessories.

Like other smaller running shops, such as A Snail's Pace (Laguna Hills, Fountain Valley, Brea), The Run Shop (formerly Fleet Feet, in Laguna Niguel) and The Running Lab (Orange), Runners High specializes in "fittings" – making sure customers buy the right shoes based on how they run.

Newcomb has visitors lace up and watches them run outside the store.

Based on how their feet strike the ground and other factors, he will recommend the right shoe.

"Most people don't get fitted correctly, especially when they go to Kohl's or Target to buy shoes," Newcomb says.

"Fittings are the key to preventing injuries and making sure you get the most out of your shoes. You need to buy the right shoe for the right reasons."

Scott White owns The Run Shop in Laguna Niguel – formerly a franchise of Fleet Feet that switched over in January.

Like Newcomb, White says the key to thriving is establishing deep ties with locals. His store has hosted book signings by running stars like Dean Karnazes, but mostly, White says it boils down to knowing your customer.

"Running specialty stores are all about making sure the customer is fitted in the right shoe," White says. "They walk into a store where everyone is knowledgeable about the products.

"We're looking to create a store that is ingrained in the community, and not just a store that is pushing product out the front door."

This story originally appeared on www.ocregister.com. Runners High is located at 14417 Culver Drive, Irvine, near Trader Joe's, on the northeast corner of Walnut and Culver in Walnut Village Center. For more information, visit http://www.runnershighirvine.com/ or call 949-551-9900.

The things we do...

2009-06-23T14:24:00.000-07:00

With the fabled Western States 100 starting tomorrow (good luck everyone!), I got to thinking: What do runners do before a big race? Any strange rituals or quirky behavior (I mean, beyond the normal strangeness and quirkiness of ultrarunner behavior)?

I want to hear from you! Here's what some of my running pals had to say:

Kirk Fortini: "Before every race, I can be a pain in the ass. I will go from one end of my truck to the other, inside and out, and detail it until it's in near new condition. It's kinda asinine when you consider that most of the places we park our rides during the races are dusty, and my truck is usually covered in several strata of soil by the time my slow ass gets off the course and returns to it. That's not to mention all of the debris that I track inside it when I hop in for the ride home.

"I also go to extremes with some other small points of prep. The tire pressure gets checked the day before I leave, fluid levels are looked at, etc. Then, about two days before I leave, I start placing things into my truck. The drop bags, fresh clothes, anything and everything. It all gets put exactly where I know that I'll be reaching for it when I get to my truck, and most of the time takes into account a certain efficiency of motion. Nothing is accidental about where the stuff is put." (My take: Yes, dude, and you also groom yourself to look like the stud you are. The proof is in this picture, taken before the 24-hour Nanny Goat run -- you handsome devil, you.)

Leon Gray: While not superstitious, here's something more practical: I try not to eat a big meal, i.e., "carbo load," the night before. I prefer to do my big meal as an early lunch so I’m not looking for the nearest porta potty the next morning. And I triple triple check everything. I’ve almost forgoten kinda important stuff like shoes, etc. (My take: The trails -- and all of us -- thank you, Leon!)

Marissa Licon: "I always 'go to bed' super early, planning to get extra sleep, then I lay in bed awake unable to sleep from pre-race excitement, usually never get more than three hours despite having gone to bed 8-10 hours before I need to wake up...even though I know I won't be able to sleep I still continue to do this every race. I also look at pictures of people who I care very deeply about, as if I won't be seeing them for a long time...lol...or at least it seems like a long time on the trails." (My take: Just drink coffee all night and call it a day -- or, in this case, a night : ))

$2,315

2009-06-16T11:47:00.000-07:00

That's the amount of pledges received from the recent Nanny Goat run for the Megan Myers Foundation. Fellow runners and dear friends Alexa Dickerson and Kirk Fortini join me in thanking all of you on behalf of Gail Myers, Megan's mother, for supporting this wonderful cause.

And save this date: Oct. 11, 2009, for the Run for Megan at Laguna Niguel Regional Park. Details to come.

THANKS AGAIN!!!

The best medicine

2009-06-14T11:53:00.000-07:00

At the top of Dreaded Hill in Whiting Ranch.

I have been a total crank, a beotch in the throes of "that time" of the month, a Republican -- you name it, I have been in a rotten, disgusting, overbearingly ornery mood.

No longer!

Pumped up on muscle relaxers and anti-inflammatories and black coffee, I ignored my knee and back pain and got in 11 good miles at Whiting Ranch this morning. I did some nasty hills (Dreaded Hill and Mustard to Vista Point and Mustard to Four Corners) without stopping -- something I normally don't do because it sorta sucks.

Methinks I have found my perfect running cocktail. Then again, methinks I better not get too used to this.

Can you say rehab?

Seriously, running is the best medicine. I am feeling much better now. I no longer have the urge to drop-kick puppies or stomp on daisies or snarl at babies in strollers.

See, I even am slowing down to smell the flowers (even if they are blurry. Blame the meds!):

And he's handsome, too!

2009-06-11T11:24:00.000-07:00

Dennis Koors

Ah, to be a talented runner, a super nice guy, a philanthropist at heart -- and a heartthrob, to boot!

Life ain't fair. Get over it.

Meanwhile, for those of you who do not know him, Dennis Koors is all these things and more. If I were into guys, I would be stalking him.

Please consider helping Dennis out in this most excellent of causes. Here's an email Dennis recently dispatched to several of his many friends in the ultrarunning community.

With his permission, I post it here:

Hello!

Would you help swimmers that are missing limbs, paraplegics who use handcycles to bike and runners who race using artificial limbs?

If every person receiving this email donates just $25, we will meet meet our goal by the June 30 deadline!

My goal is to run 135 miles across Death Valley within 60 hours (www.badwater.com) and raise $5,000 in the process.

By donating to this fundraising effort, you will help people with physical challenges realize their dreams. 100% of your donation will go to Challenged Athletes Foundation and will support athletes who can’t always get to the starting line.

Follow This Link to donate in support of Challenged Athletes Foundation

Thank you kindly for all of your support and please share this with those you know!

Dennis

San Diego 100

2009-06-04T15:42:00.001-07:00

Last year, near the start/finish line, on the afternoon before the start of the San Diego 100.

It's hard to believe that it's been a year since I ran my first 100-miler, in San Diego. I suppose I will count my recent Nanny Goat 24-Hour run as my second 100-miler, since I logged 104 miles. But it wasn't technically a 100-miler.

San Diego is the real deal, a tough (but not insanely tough) romp in the mountains near Lake Cuyamaca.

Yes, Catra Corbett was there.

The SD100 was a huge deal for me -- a profound, deeply emotional experience that always will stay with me.

I grimaced when I recall the struggle of nearly quitting during the first 50 miles, when dehydration and stomach issues (couldn't eat) set in, particularly around miles 30 to 50.

I thrillingly recall feeling fantastic when nightfall came, and becoming a whole new runner (or so it seemed) from miles 55 to 80.

And I recall, with piercing clarity, the incredibly challenging 20-mile slog to the finish, mostly during daybreak, and how my pacer, Ryan, got me to the finish line.

Arguably, the hardest part of completing the SD100 was driving the two-plus hours home, solo, to Orange County.

Many, many miles to go

Despite a caffeine pill (thanks, Dennis Koors) and a stop at McDonald's for coffee, and the windows down and the radio blasting and the air conditioner on, I barely was able to stay awake.

Dumb idea.

I will be closely monitoring the race this year on my laptop and keeping in touch with close running friends via text messaging (my new addiction -- yeah!).

My knee is still sore from Nanny Goat, so I have not been running much. I had planned on being a pacer for SD100 this year but as fate would have it, my sore knee would have deep-sixed that idea anyway.

At the halfway point. Yup, just 50 more miles to go.

I hope to hit the trails soon and start blogging about my new adventures.

Good luck, San Diego 100 runners! Make sure you have a ride home.

What the heck is this?

2009-05-31T20:51:00.001-07:00

How dispiriting
Right knee irritating
Hurt from Nanny Goat
So pulled out this old boat
from the garage
life just a mirage
No longer a runner?
Could there be a worse bummer?
Ain't no mountain biker.
Rather die a hiker.
Now I must heal.
Will get down and kneel.
Never worse will I feel
If I can't run the real deal.
My God this is so unreal.
Never hurt before.
Despite my running lore
Sound like a bore
But sure as hell am sore.
Under the right kneecap.
Can't do one lap.
Feel like a sap
Expanding is my lap.
Fatter by the hour.
Feeling oh so dour.
Facial expression all sour.
"Go ride," my friends they say.
Sorry, not today
Not OK
Will sell my soul on e-Bay
Before I bicycle 'round the Bay
Guess I had it coming
Had it due to be so bumming
Always cherish what you got
Cuz one day you'll wake up and it'll be not
what you thought
like a shot
you will be hit,
then rot

Back to Costa Rica!

2009-05-29T20:39:00.001-07:00

Slogging through the jungle in 2008.

I'm in for the Coastal Challenge "Route of Fire" for 2010, returning to the same gorgeous country, grueling trails and amazing people who made my first go-around there in 2008 one of the best experiences (running or not) of my life.

Race director Tim Holmstrom and partner in crime Tim Meyer put on a classy event that is perfect not only for hardcore ultrarunners, but runners with grit and spirit and good attitudes who may only have a marathon or so under their belt. An open mind and a willingness to roll with things is the key to success and good times in Costa Rica.

Hydration is crucial in Costa Rica.

I will be blogging often about this, but I urge runners and their friends and families to consider this truly epic adventure. Click here for details and stay tuned.

It's going to be a paarrrrrtttttayyyyyy!!!!!

Oh, and let me know if you want to go. I can get you 5 percent off the entry fee -- for runners and guests alike. Bring the family! Lots of activities available for all.

Let's blow this sucker out and make it the best edition yet of the Coastal Challenge!

And around and around we went...

2009-05-25T20:03:00.000-07:00

I had resisted running in insane "loop" races in which runners go around and around, endlessly, like hamsters in a cage, hour after hour, on very short loops (try one mile on for size, bucko), the scenery never shifting, the redundancy only intensifying the crushing abuse on the body.

After participating in the Nanny Goat 24-Hour Ultra in Riverside this past weekend, I am glad I did.

It's the people, silly.

The horse stalls, through which runners passed every mile and set up their belongings.

In most conventional long-distance races, runners swing from social to isolated, chatting up people they run into and then, sometimes for long periods, dealing with their own thoughts (or iPods) when the field stretches out.

During runs like the Nanny Goat, expertly staged by co-RDs Steve and Annie Harvey, you see the same faces (and backsides) every 10 to 15 minutes, with food and drink never more than that many minutes away.

Kris and her amazing coffee

I must have talked to Dennis Koors six or seven of the nearly 24 hours I ran Saturday/Sunday -- the most I've ever had the privilege of doing. What a cool guy.

We are like BFFs now.

It's really quite an uplift to see the same faces over and over, sometimes encouraging you and sometimes falling silent. One thing is certain: Knowing that you are all going through the same thing, more or less, does help in the motivation department.

Jean Ho. The best volunteer ever even plays the harp.

And because the course is short (one mile in this case), knowing there is aid every mile -- well, at least I never experienced the sort of dread that sets in when you are in the middle of nowhere, doubting your ability to run anymore, no one around, and trying not to think that you are an hour or more away from an aid station.

So, for those of you (many friends of mine) who think I was nuts to run Nanny Goat, in a way, these kinds of races are a little more, er, sane than conventional long-distance races (point-to-point or lengthy loops, like the upcoming San Diego 100, which has two 50-mile loops).

Kirk Fortini, pre-race (duh)

One thing that bothered me was the lack of hills. I know that sounds counterintuitive, but I love hills -- they mix up the rhythm of a run and work different muscles.

Nanny Goat had dirt and grass and pavement, but the pounding was relentless and monotonous -- not ideal. That is no slight, of course, to the hostess of the race: fellow ultrarunner Shelli Sexton and her family, who own the beautiful 20-acre course where the race was staged.

Chris Diaz

One benefit of the monotony of the course: After a while, when night fell, I did not need a light. I had pretty much memorized where to put my feet. This also helped in that I was able to text relentlessly (I know, a bad habit) with some special people while running. A lot of runners gave me crap for this, and it was well deserved, but hey -- you gotta do what you gotta do to get through 100 miles.

Gail Myers and Steve Harvey

Which is what I did. I ended up running 104 miles for second place (the winner had 111). I could have gotten in two to three more miles in my alloted 24 hours, but oh well!

The set-up of the race was great. Runners could use horse stables (stalls?) to put their belongings, and there was a grassy area for friends and family to camp out. Talk about a friendly arrangement.

In most cases, being a spectator at an ultramarathon doesn't work -- unless one is volunteering at an aid station, or waiting (sometimes for hours) at the finish line. At Nanny Goat, friends and family could see their runner every few minutes. It was really special.

About the volunteers: They were amazing. Tri-tip anyone? Check. Gourmet coffee drinks? Check. Ice massages? Check. I do not want to single anyone out, really, but members of the SoCal Trail Headz, you are amazing!

A few shoutouts, to make sure I piss people off for being selective (haha):

* Kirk, I am sorry your ankle was bothering you. You really gutted it out. Congrats, my friend, to a heroic performance.

Dennis Koors

* Dennis, for your wise counsel and company. It was priceless, really.

* Chris Diaz, you crack me up. I love trading quips with you. You inspire me.

* Beiyi, thanks for practically feeding me at the aid station. That hamburger was amazing.

* Jean Ho, you are the best volunteer in the history of ultrarunning.

* LT, for pissing me off enough at your ability to lap me to keep me running, haha.

* Kris Bhatti, Starbucks has nothing on you.

Go Lo!

* Jane, for keeping me company most of the night. Your texting skills are awesome!

* Steve and Annie Harvey, for your endless good cheer and professionalism.

* Alexa, for pushing through fatigue. Remember that at SD100!

* Shelli, for being an electric hostess and letting Reina and her friend Sophia ride some of your horses.

* Ted Liao. Best. Cook. Ever.

I do not plan on running any races for a long spell, but for those of you who are considering a 100-miler, definitely try Nanny Goat next year. I will be there, even if I do not run. The experience was remarkable.

Sophia (on horse) and Reina

Shelli had country music blaring, the sounds of the crickets at night were soothing, and the horses shuffling at dawn, along with a few roosters, still are fresh in my mind.

I will report soon on how much money was raised for the Megan Myers Foundation when the pledges come in. Thank you once again for all your support. Gail Myers, Megan's mother, was on hand Saturday to greet everyone, and I know she was deeply touched and appreciative.

As for me? I am a bit beaten up, but nothing unusual. My knees and legs are pretty sore, about 36 hours after I crossed the finish line. I will be fine, though. No serious injuries to speak of -- just a few more reasons to go get a pedicure to see the looks of horror on the faces of the pedicurists (is that a word?) when they see my feet.

Priceless.

Only 70 or more miles to go...

101

2009-05-25T10:03:00.000-07:00

With Rio, somewhere around mile 50

I ran 101 miles over the weekend at the 24-Hour Nanny Goat Ultra (Steve and Annie Harvey's amazingly well-run event, the first such race for them) in Riverside. The miles will translate into money for the Megan Meyers Foundation.

The best part of the run, besides all the incredible volunteers and the beauty of Shelli Sexton's 20-acre ranch where the race was staged, was running with my son, Rio, 15, for a few laps and spending time with daughter Reina, 13, and her friend, Sophia, who spent the night in a tent.

A more detailed report and many more pictures are coming.

Thanks to everyone for your support (especially you Jane, the new texting queen), and keep charging!

Sophia and Reina

Ready to go...

2009-05-22T13:51:00.000-07:00

...I just want to say thank you to everyone for supporting me and my friends Kirk and Alexa as we run to raise money for the Megan Myers Foundation at tomorrow's Nanny Goat 24-Hour Run in Riverside.

I will take lots of pictures (yup, I bought a new camera haha) and post a recap as soon as I can see straight!

Thanks again.

Keep chargin' (no, that doesn't refer to credit cards, silly!)

All about Megan

2009-05-18T09:11:00.000-07:00

Miss Megan Myers

First off, my camera is busted. Ironically, it broke when I dropped it on the tile floor in my Silverado Canyon "cabin," and not on some rocky trail.

Figures.

This is why I have no fresh photos to post. Will get a new camera soon. After I rob a bank.

I miss capturing on digital images the ineffably restorative experience that is trail running (hey that phrase made me sound smart. Note to self: keep the thesaurus!).

Been thinking a lot.

The relatively minor funk I recently was mired in is nothing compared to the funks some people suffer. "Funk" does no justice to real life issues. I feel ashamed to have blathered on about my ridiculously petty setbacks in the face of what truly matters.

In that spirit, I cannot wait until this Saturday to run in the Nanny Goat 24-Hour Run, in Riverside. Click here for all the info!

Normally I would never enter a race in which I am forced to run, hamster like, along a flat, 1-mile loop for an entire day. What's up with that? How freaking boring!!!

When I was 12 -- two years shy of how long Megan lived.

Of course, Saturday's run is far from routine for me. In fact, it's not about me at all. It's about Megan Myers, a young woman I never met, and her wonderful family in Dana Point (read about their story here).

There still is time to support me and fellow runners Kirk Fortini and Alexa Dickerson in raising money for the Megan Myers Foundation.

For those of you who already have stepped forward, I truly thank you, respect you and deeply honor you -- as do members of the Myers' family.

I covered the tragic story of Megan as a reporter for the Orange County Register. There is no such thing as an unbiased reporter -- no matter what you have heard. I was floored by the loss of this vibrant 14-year-old.

As a runner, her passing touched me deeply. As a runner and human being, and not as a reporter, I am raising money for her foundation.

I have many things to be thankful for.

As a writer I hate cliches, but it sickens me how I take things for granted -- like family, health and life itself. I am blessed beyond compare and in that spirit I will humbly do my best to run for 24 hours straight Saturday.

I don't care how many miles I do. I just want to keep moving. I'm not trying to prove anything. I just want, in some small way, to make the world a better place. It's a small gesture but one that is important to me.

Come on out and stay for a while and say hi! Please bring Haribo gummy bears and Diet Red Bull haha!

There's room to CAMP OUT IN TENTS! Cool!

Let's have some FUN!!!

Details about run (click the link above, but here are the basics):

WHEN: Saturday, May 23 (my mother's birthday)!

TIME: 9 a.m. to Sunday at 9 a.m. (I know, crazy!)

WHERE: 2600 Grace St. (Grace is my daughter's middle name), Riverside. For map click here.

Springtime downtime

2009-05-15T10:22:00.000-07:00

As I prepare to run for 24 hours straight on May 23 to support the Megan Myers Foundation (see post below), I wanted to update my dormant blog with a few ramblings.

I have been undergoing some difficult life changes, hence my erratic postings. Been depressed and feel beaten down. Trying to get my mojo back. Where the hell is it. Someone find it, quick.

Since I last touched down here, I have run the Leona Divide 50-miler and the OC Marathon.

I will not do recaps because I do not know what to say, really -- other than I had some great moments and some real dark ones (especially at the OC Marathon -- blame the pavement).

Leona forever will be a special run for me for reasons that have nothing to do with my finish time of 8:55, for 21st or whatever.

Ran into great friends and enjoyed their company.

Running always has been my fuel. Lately it has been difficult to get moving and onto the trails. I know that when I do, I feel better. It's the starting that's the hardest. As U2 so aptly puts it, in "Original of the Species," one of my favorite songs, "The end is not as far as the start."

So this applies to everyone: Get out and run. You will feel better.

That's what I tell myself, hah.

Random race shot. At about mile 3 at Leona.

WTF

2009-04-30T16:51:00.000-07:00

...instead of thinking about me me me and how darn busy I am, let's think about a good cause related to ultrarunning.

I will be running the Nanny Goat 24-Hour race on May 23 on Shelli Sexton's ranch in Riverside to raise money for the Megan Myers Foundation. Kirk and Alexa also will be raising money for this great cause.
I have written about Megan quite a bit in this space. The Dana Hills High 14-year-old collapsed and died during a cross-country race in late 2007. Since then, her family has been raising money to pay for Automated External Defibrillators to be installed at Orange County schools.

Megan had been in apparent great health when a condition called miocarditis stilled her young heart.

Here is all the relevant info about the fund-raising effort. All money goes to the foundation --- not us!

Please consider supporting this amazing family and their cause:

24-Hour Run For Megan Myers at the Nanny Goat Ultra, May 23-24 in Riverside

ABOUT THE MEGAN MYERS MEMORIAL FUND
The fund was established in memory of Megan, 14, who passed away from sudden cardiac arrest while running a high school cross-country race in Laguna Niguel in September 2007.

The fund’s mission is to donate automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to local public schools, increase awareness about sudden cardiac arrest through education and screenings, and to provide college scholarships for high school athletes.

ABOUT THE NANNY GOAT 24-HOUR ULTRAMARATHON
The Nanny Goat 24-hour race takes place on a one-mile dirt loop on a private horse ranch in Riverside. The race starts at 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 23. Come out and support all the runners! Click here for details.

HOW TO DONATE

Potential donors have three options: 1) Contribute a lump-sum amount; 2) Pledge an amount per mile; 3) Pledge an amount per hour. All money raised will go to the Megan Myers Memorial Fund. Runners Greg Hardesty and Kirk Fortini each plan to run for 24 hours, with each of them logging a total of 100 miles or slightly more. A third runner, Alexa Dickerson, will run for 12 hours for 50+ miles.

Those who choose to make a lump-sum contribution can send a check payable to:

OCCF/Megan Myers Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 32545-B, Golden Lantern # 123, Dana Point, CA 92629

Those pledging money per mile or per hour, please send an email with your pledged amount to Gail Myers (Megan’s mother), at gailmy@cox.net

Gail will follow up with an email to all those who make pledges via email after the race.

For more information, contact Gail Myers at gailmy@cox.net, Greg Hardesty at U2boy14@hotmail.com, Kirk Fortini at kirkfortini@gmail.com or Alexa Dickerson at cdickrun520@hotmail.com Bless you for your support!

Just been busy!

2009-04-29T16:31:00.000-07:00

Yeah, OK, maybe the running gods are getting pissed.

With a full-time reporting job, two journalism classes I am teaching, and various side projects, I have been buried! Excuses, excuses.

Will blather on very soon...

: )

Thanks for caring!

ON HIATUS

2009-04-27T13:11:00.000-07:00

...to resume someday...

Ok, so, like...

2009-04-13T12:05:00.000-07:00

...I haven't been blogging as frequently, and there are reasons for that. Let's just say my plate be full! Still, I have gotten in some great runs recently -- notably, this last week ended Sunday, when I logged 81.25 miles, by far my biggest week in a while (especially without a race). I am so ready for this Saturday's Leona Divide 50-miler.

The gang's all here: Chino Hills State Park.

Leona was my second ultra, in 2007, after the Twin Peaks 50-miler two months prior, in January 2007. Has it really only been a little more than two years since I have been competing in ultra races? (I use the term "competing" very lightly). I am sooooo looking forward to running Leona's fab trails again with some stellar friends!

Shannon, Alexa, iMichelle, Keira, Pam and Ashley on our 32- to 40-miler from Crystal Cove to Santiago Truck Trail/Main Divide.

So, about the last two weeks. The highlight was Friday, when I joined six super-talented runners (I was the token mediocre male) on a planned 40-mile-ish run from Crystal Cove/El Morro to Santiago Peak. The cold, wet weather didn't help and training plans for the SD100 called for a 32-miler, so I did 34. Alexa did 32, iMichelle and Pam 36, and Shannon, Keira and Ashley about 40 miles.

Keira struggles to open a lid.

None of us reached the peak but who cares? It was a GREAT run, although there was a lot of pavement (about six miles). The company was unparalleled and the conversations wonderful.

It's been a great two weeks of running. My rib is still sore from my fall during the Old Goats 50, but methinks it is just a bruise : )

Other shots from the last 14 days:

Lo, TQ, Umm... (I am a jerk), Sue, LT, Skip, Me

Up a steep hill in El Moro.

Pammy!

Alexa, iMichelle and Ashley. Some serious talent!

Shout it out

2009-03-30T07:29:00.000-07:00

Keira shows how it's done.

I felt undertrained for Saturday's Old Goats 50-Miler, Steve and Annie Harvey's diabolically hilly (12,000+ feet of climbing) run in the Santa Ana Mountains. I survived it, finishing in a modest 10:59 (19th overall), the lows unfortunately outweighing the highs. It was a tough day for me. I fell twice, once at Mile 12 (a 5 out of 10, according to the judges haha), and again at Mile 26.5 (an 8 out of a 10). I got dehydrated. It was just one of those days.

Dearest Corrinne

After my second fall, I cursed loudly. I shouted out a string of F-bombs. The Timinator, on volunteer duty, happened upon me. I apologized. I felt ashamed. But I was in pain.

I relate this story because sometimes, life can get the best of us. Things are going great and -- WHAM! -- you are on your back. I got back up and continued running. I wanted to quit but was resolved to keep moving. If running has taught me anything, it's that a goal -- any goal --- can be achieved if you want it badly and don't quit.

So, wherever you are in life, when obstacles happen, shout them out.

Mr. Pete Vara

Then keep moving.

Yeah, sometimes you'll hurt a lot. But things are always at their worst when you are in the thick of things --- on your back, in pain. I think life is richer when you learn to embrace the lows as well as the highs. The lows are essential to happiness, when you really think about it.

Running has taught me this. The close friends I have made through ultrarunning have taught me this.

I could stop running tomorrow, and my life would be the richer for it. No comparison. No contest. No question.

My brother Kirk Fortini

Bad day or good, slow finish time or super-fast finish, ultrarunning is about the people who share your passion, and the family and friends who struggle to grasp why you do what you do. The non-runners are as much a part of this as your running friends are. They really make it all possible.

I am hurting now but soon will feel better.

I am rambling but soon my head will be clear.

Soon (very soon) I will get excited about my next 50-miler, Leona Divide, in less than three weeks. I look forward to seeing friends and meeting new ones to share other experiences (bad, good or so-so) on the trails.

Linda and Michelle

The Old Goats 50-Miler will remain very special to me for several reasons. I love running on my local trails. Although the course is very rocky, with several nasty climbs, this is home. Dozens of friends ran or volunteered. This always will be me my most important race, ever. My closest friends know why.

I believe this is the toughest 50-miler I've run --- even tougher than Mt. Disappointment. I would say that Old Goats just feels more consistently difficult than Mt. Dis. Old Goats is pretty technical throughout, and the eight-mile climb up Holy Jim to Santiago Peak, from miles 29 to 37, is just punishing.

The last 13 aren't a cakewalk. There's still Trabuco Peak to climb, and the shortish but uphill climb to the top of the Trabuco Trail before you run the 2.5-mile downhill to Blue Jay Campground.

Alexa and Jennifer

What an amazing confidence-builder finishing Old Goats is -- congrats to Pete K., Lisa K., Molly and Linda, among others, who conquered this beast. You do this one, you can do almost all others! I am told by RD Steve Harvey that this one ranks among the toughest 50-milers in the country.

Heaping praise on an RD for a well-run race, as well as on the hordes of amazingly generous volunteers, sometimes feels obligatory, but the team behind the Old Goats 50-Miler truly deserves much praise. Do yourself a favor by signing up for this race next year. You will be practically babied by everyone.
The aid stations were numerous and generously stocked, and the uplift they delivered was immense.

Alexa finishes

Most aid stations were staffed by members of the SoCal Trail Headz, several of whom also ran Old Goats. I hate playing favorites, but when you reach Santiago Peak at Mile 37 and are greeted by a woman (Jean Ho) playing a harp, with her and fellow volunteers Skip, E-Rod, TQ and Jenn G. wearing white angel wings matching red Trail Headz shirts, well --- you know you are in very special company.

Getting my 'Old Goats' on

2009-03-26T12:08:00.000-07:00

Am totally pumped about running in the tough Old Goats 50-Miler on Saturday. It is an intimidating race (12,000 feet of uphill climbing) but I know every inch of the course and love the trails, notable Holy Jim and Upper Holy Jim.

Am especially thrilled for Lexie (Alexa), who will be running the 50-miler as preparation for her first 100-miler, in San Diego, in June. I am coaching her for her century run and will be pacing her from mile 70 on.

With Lexie, at the start of the Santiago Truck Trail.

Lexie has come very far since we met nearly two years ago, and at the rare young age of 21 ("rare" for ultrarunners) she shows amazing talent and drive. I also will be thrilled to see my friends Linda, Molly and Lisa running their first 50-miler at Old Goats. Go girls!

No matter how everyone does, many of my friends will be running and volunteering in this Steve and Annie Harvey production. No matter what, it will be great to spend the day with some of the coolest people on the planet.

As for me, it's all about the fun. I don't care how I do; I just will be thrilled to be out there.

Connecting

2009-03-15T20:01:00.001-07:00

The picture that launched a thousand swoons: Jamison (left) and Ryan.

I have been so happy running these past few days with some beautiful souls. It had been a while since I last ran with Keira and, true to form, she introduced me and others to some butt-kicking singletrack in the Laguna Wilderness.

Luminous Lexie

Some things never change!

Also ran with Ryan, one of the coolest cats around. He paced me at the San Diego 100 last June. Some setbacks have kept him off the trails recently but if Sunday was any indication, he is back in a big way. He kicked my bottom romping up the steep, winding trails that took us to heights from which lovely vistas of the shimmering Pacific Ocean served as the perfect tonic to a long work week.

Vineer

Lexie and Pammy and Jamison and Vineer joined us.

I cannot say enough about Lexie and Pammy. Both rocked at Saturday's San Juan 50k (Pammy finishing in an amazing 5:58, just two or three minutes ahead of Lexie) and here they were, the next morning, getting in some bodaciously punishing climbs. Both of these women have talent to match their beauty and hearts of gold.

Willie Cooper, stud

I am particulary excited for Lexie, who is training for the SD 100. Go Lexie! She is a rock star in the making. Heck, she already is.

What can I say about Jamison other then, if I was a girl I'd be salivating. Hah! Truly, he's a sterling runner and a fab gent.

To my delight, we all ran into Saltwater 5000 co-founder Willie Cooper, who is training for the Western States 100-mile endurance run in June (as is Vineer!).

I was with Willie when I ran my first (unofficial) ultra. He watched me kiss the dirt of my beloved Santiago Truck Trail when I passed 26.2 miles during our 32-mile, sea-to-the-mountain climb in December 2006. We forever will be bonded in our insanity.

Will materialized out of the bushes during a water stop.

"I'm doing about 40 miles today," he said. "I'm about 15 into it."

With friends like these, it's easy to feel like a schleppy runner. I kneel before all of them in awe and respect.

Great runners, great people.

Great weekend.

Keira, smiling through the climbs, as usual!

As for Saturday...

Shannon in a patch of poppies along the Santiago Truck Trail.

I was privileged to have the great company of the stupendously talented and incredibly soulful and sweet Shannon, who ran with me to Old Camp and back for 15.77 miles. It was Shannon's first run to Old Camp and her first time on the Santiago Truck Trail in the daylight.

She loved it! And I loved running with the No. 1 female finisher at the recent WTRS half-marathon. I was happy to be able to keep up with Shannon. Perhaps she was just being nice.

We took our time to savor the wildflowers and the sunny skies above the thick clouds that blanketed the rest of Orange County.

It was like we experienced another day up there on the mountain.

And we did.

Oh boy

2009-03-03T18:30:00.000-08:00

Atop Santiago Peak.

What's not to love about life? I am listening to a new U2 album, am back in Southern California after a brief and frigid visit to the Midwest, I am freed up from my day job for a week, and I am fresh from a 24.2-mile run from Maple Springs in Silverado Canyon to the summit of Santiago Peak and back.

Linda joined me for this perfect run early Monday. Although I was running on five hours of sleep following a cross-country flight, all went well. I was tired but the joy and exhiliration of running up and down a mountain in great company was the cure-all I needed.
I highly recommend this run. It's fairly easy as far as climbing goes. Although you ascend 4,000 feet or so, you can run the whole way. There are no deadly uphills. Do it! Now! Before it gets too hot. That's the thing: The run is self-supported, and I drank almost all of my 120 ounces or so of water/etc.

My iPod reloaded with new U2 songs, I am heading to the trails tomorrow...and the next day...and the next...

Rock on.

Urban running

2009-02-28T12:19:00.001-08:00

In St. Louis for the weekend, Charlie and Julian and I managed to slip in a short run. Talk about a contrast to my beloved trails. We had fun but I would by lying if I said I can't wait to get back to dirt.

The temperature was in the low 30s and we had trouble finding a green tree along the concrete banks of the Mississippi River. But we had a blast. That's the thing with running: When it's not the best, it's always good. Sorta like pizza.

We ran under the Gateway Arch (score!) and past some industrial businesses. The locals must have easily identified us as out-of-towners because of our relatively light running garb. One runner I saw looked like he was dressed for a blizzard.
I have a full running week planned as I will be taking some time off from work. To the mountains! After flat and cold St. Louis, I am craving some steep hills and temps above the 50s.

Bono and the boys to the rescue

2009-02-25T16:01:00.000-08:00

Art from "No Line on the Horizon," U2's new album that was five years in the making.

I've been slacking. I've been slumping. I've been sluggish and thuggish and puggish (is that a word?) when it comes to running, and I'm not going to take it anymore!

I decided to run the San Juan 50k on March 14. I have the daunting Old Goats 50-Miler two weeks after that.

I will be getting in some epic training runs the first week of March. I have to take a week off from work (too much vacation time) then, so what better way to fill up a day then running in the local mountains and foothills?

The album cover

U2's new album, "No Line on The Horizon," comes out Monday -- perfect timing to pump up my running soundtrack. The album is simply amazing.

A new U2 album is an event for me. I usually will listen to a new U2 album non-stop about, oh, 50 times, put it away for a week or so, and then listen to it 50 more times. By then, the sounds and lyrics typically merge with my DNA, and once again, all becomes right in my world.

Dream out loud, brothers and sisters.

Love was in the air

2009-02-15T08:03:00.000-08:00

Pammy atop Modjeska Peak, at about 5,500 feet elevation. It was one of those magical days.

Feb. 14, 2009 -- Valentine's Day --- a day that will live in running lore for me (and horror for four of my friends). After all, how often does one have a chance to strip naked (except for the running shoes) and stand in snow, air temp in the mid-30s, atop Modjeska Peak?

You don't have to be a slumdog millionaire to pick the right answer:

Not often.

What got into me?

Joy. Unbridled exhuberance. A bit of moxie. Certainly not vanity, as my bod barely passes for OK.

Call it a runner's high. Call it the joy of living in the moment. For God's sake, tho, don't call the cops.

Pam, Charlie work the Silverado Trail. Nice and flat --- not!

Pam, Shannon, Olivier, Ryan (visiting from Rhode Island), Jon Resnick and (surprise!) Charlie showed up Saturday morning for a planned 17-mile loop in Maple Springs (the end of Silverado Canyon Road).

Seeing Charlie guaranteed the day would be special. Lately, he has been keeping to his gilded homeowners' trails in and around Ladera Ranch. Now he was joining us on Candy Mountain!

Chaz at the top of the Silverado Trail

This loop has become a favorite of runners who crave lots of climbing and unbelievable views (on clear days) that span 360 degrees across the OC/LA/Inland Empire basins.

Truly amazing. And to think I live only one mile from the trailhead...awesome!

We start at the Silverado Trail (used to be called the Silverado Motorway), which in 3.5 miles climbs 2,000 feet to the Main Divide.

Shannon says, "Get that camera out of my face!"

The Silverado Trail is singletrack, rocky in parts, with lots of switchbacks and sweeping canyon views. I've nicknamed this portion of the run "Rude Awakening" because there is no time to warm up. You just start climbing.

Very soon, the towers at Fascist Island (umm, Fashion Island) come into view and on clear days so does Catalina Island. The payoff for all the climbing comes swiftly and helps propel you up the mountain.

At Main Divide, only 3.5 miles into the run, the snow-capped peaks of Mt. Baldy come into view. Wait, there's Big Bear! And Mt. San Gorgonio! And look, downtown LA! And Dana Point!

Ryan, along the Main Divide, looking toward Maple Springs/Silverado Canyon.

Turning right at Main Divide (south/east), runners are greeted to a series of roller-coaster climbs and downhills on smooth fireroad. The climbs get tougher as you approach your goal: the "saddle" where the Main Divide hits the top of the (closed) Harding Truck Trail and the top of Maple Springs.

At this point in the 17-mile loop, you have done all your climbing and are at around 4,200 elevation before you head down the 7.5 miles (all downhill) back to your cars at the start of the run.

The snow started forming about two miles before we reached the saddle (also called Four Corners) on Saturday. It started in shady areas along the dirt and soon covered the Main Divide, somewhere at around 3,900 elevation.

The crunching sound of running on snow was satisfying. It wasn't that deep at this point and was fairly easy to run on.

At the saddle, Shannon said she wanted to summit Modjeska Peak -- "only" another two or so miles, but another 1,300 feet or so of climbing. This would turn our planned loop run into 22 miles. All of us felt pretty good but it was cold, and the snow would only get deeper.

At this point, despite some misgivings because of approaching clouds with sinister dark areas, we all were in.

Jon, with Chaz

About 1.5 miles in on our run up the Main Divide to Modjeska Peak, where towers stand before you make a sharp U-turn to run to the top (another mile away), Charlie and Jon decided that they had had enough and headed back.

I almost joined them. I was pretty tired and hungry. Something told me to keep going, though. Ryan had never been to the peak and neither had Shannon. They would not be denied. So I joined them and Olivier.

The snow was fairly deep and it was tough going for the front-runners (Shannon and Ryan and Olivier). I had an easier time following in the footsteps.

About a half-mile from the summit, the endorphins flooding my brain and the sun kissing my chilled cheeks, it hit me:

I'm going to strip naked on the summit.

I took my inspiration from Dean Karnazes' "Ultramarathon Man." In the book, there's a photo of him posing nude after a marathon on the North Pole (South Pole? I forget). If he could do it in subfreezing temps, I could do it in the relatively balmy 30s.

At the summit, I turned to Shannon and said, "I have an idea." Later, she would tell me that she knew what I meant.

I thought one of the guys would snap the pix while the horrified Pam and Shannon would look away. There would be none of that, tho.

Using my yellow handheld bottles to block my seriously, er, compromised manhood (it was VERY cold, remember?), I gleefully posed. I was utterly without self-consciousness or shame. I was too happy to care about being embarrassed. Everyone cracked up for five minutes or so.

You only live once. You also, probably, only have the guts (insanity?) once every millenium or so to stand naked in the snow on a mountaintop with four friends watching. This wasn't in my "Bucket List," but I'm glad I did it.

Am I crazy? No. Just drunk on running gorgeous trails and living in the moment. Now, I need to seriously do some ab crunches.

EGADS!

Yes, this is fun

2009-02-09T20:21:00.001-08:00

Ryan gets trashed atop Maple Springs.

Ah, the rain! It's great if you dress appropriately -- something I suck at (in real life and on the trails).

Here are a few shots from recent runs up to 4,000 feet in Maple Springs during frigid rainstorms with some foolhardy friends.

Gotta love ultrarunners!

Yes, the thumb still works. Barely. With Olivier.

Lovely Shannon warmed us with her smile.

Ryan blows

A brief respite from the chilling rain.

Lisa, Linda and Theresa take advantage of brief rays of sunshine.

Staying alive

2009-02-04T11:59:00.000-08:00

A shadow of my former self? Atop the Silverado Trail.

A crazy busy schedule and a bit of a bug have cut into my trail running recently. I won't be putting up with it for much longer. No way. My life (or at least my quality of life) depends on it.

Linda, on a foggy morning on the Santiago Truck Trail.

With the brutal Old Goats 50-miler nearly two months away, I plan to ramp up my mileage so I won't eat dirt. Lately I have needed the extra sleep but too often lately, I've also used my state of, well, extreme activity (non-running related) as an excuse to skip some runs.

That's not good. Balance is a hard thing to maintain. I need to regain mine.

A tiny friend at Old Camp.

One thing I have learned in life is never to cut back on one's health. For me, a huge part of my health is running. No matter how busy I get, I need to carve out sufficient time for the trails.

If I don't, I'll die. Well, maybe not. But life will lose its spring. And that simply won't do for me.

A stormy morning in Orange County. Taken from the Santiago Truck Trail about 1.5 miles from Old Camp.

I have realized the value of never shirking on the things that matter most to me, be it family, health or running --- or all of the above. It can be challenging, of course. But I need to be selfish (to a point, of course). We all do.

I constantly try to answer this question: "Why am I running around from work to my second and third job, then to the bank to the store to the post office? To what end?" It's a question I ask myself daily. Asking is the first step to finding an answer.

Olivier, Shannon and Holly, atop the tough Silverado Trail on the way to the Main Divide.

Sounds odd, but ultrarunning had made me a better thinker. It's definitely not all about the physical. Funny how much mental work one engages in while running for hours on end. Ultrarunning, I now realize, is brain food. It keeps me sharp. It keeps me alive, in every sense of the word.

After a much-needed (and rainy) 16-miler to Old Camp on back, on the Santiago Truck Trail.

Egads!

2009-01-29T09:11:00.000-08:00

I wonder where this trail leads. To past transgressions? Future triumphs? Is it spotted with cow dung? Do birds chirp? Is it steep? Rocky? Falling apart? Well-groomed? Any buried bodies? Filled with shiny happy people?

Thanks, Jess, for passing this along. This trail is located in Forest Park in Portland on the north end of the park.

It actually looks awesome.

It sure has sparked a lot of questions in my mind.

Long time

2009-01-20T09:33:00.001-08:00

Pam (9:03, third female in her age group) and Robert (8:29 and 10th overall) at the Avalon 50 Benefit on Catalina Island on Jan. 17.

I think this is the longest period for me not blogging since I started this deal in late 2007. Well, I have my excuses. It involves the media and a certain girl who loves to text. But anyway...

Moi and lovely Leigh Corbin on the way over from Dana Point.

First off, you may notice a nifty new endorsement just to the right. Pretty cool. I write this blog from the gut, going wherever my spirit takes me, so it's nice to know some folks are reading and getting something out of my ramblings.

Just got back from beautiful Catalina Island for my second running of the challenging but very "runnable" Avalon Benefit 50-Miler.

It's a great race with some of the best aid stations and volunteers anywhere, and a must, in my opinion, for anyone who craves good camaraderie and scenery in a non-mountainous setting (read: this is a relatively "easy" 50-miler, though I know that's a relative term. You still have to climb 7,400 feet or so).

The iMichelle, hair flyin' as usual

And going to an island always feels like a mini-vacation.

I laugh at some of our ultrarunning jargon, like "runnable." What we mean by this, of course, is that the trails are mostly smooth fireroads/pavement and mostly free of ruts and rocks and roots and other stuff that make trails "technical" (more running jargon).

The weather was glorious, though a bit warm. I suffered leg cramping from about mile 18 but still managed to run a PR of 8:33 and change. I tried my best and had fun and that's how I approach all races. Seems to be a good strategy. My time was good for lucky 13th place overall.

(From left) Bill Ramsey, Leigh Corbin, Pam Everett and George Velasco

I didn't take any photos during the run (well, a couple, but they came out bad). I was in the mood to not talk and to play loud music --- so loud, in fact, that I completely got lost in the aural assault and missed the several buffalo that other runners saw. My good friend Pam even was chased by one buffalo but luckily, aid station workers scared it away.

Kudos and thanks to Robert Schipsi, who graciously let me, Pam, Kirk, Bill and the iMichelle (first overall female, at 7:55) crash in his pal's house. Robert beat my time by four minutes to finish 10th. I know I'll never hear the end of it.

With the iMichelle and Kirk Fortini ("Kirky")

More than with most recent races, this run underscored the therapeutic value of spending a day on the trails.

The week preceding the run was unprecedented for me as far as being busy --- and I'm a busy dude. I needed to pound out the stress of the week and for me and many others, running long distances is the perfect tonic.

I don't care how fast you are. Get out on the trails and move. Don't take a watch. Just go.

Stay in the moment and realize the value that comes with pushing your body and mind to levels of discomfort as well as exhiliration.

It's called being human.

Don't forget your sunscreen.

: )

Cooling off after the 50-mile run

Members of the SoCalTrail Headz took home some hardware!

The post-race banquet was held in the famous casino (left)

Robert basks in his glory on the way home.

The super-talented Ashley Nordell clocked in at a blazing 8:11

Until next year...

Crap run

2009-01-02T10:28:00.001-08:00

I'm pretending to be happy. With iMichelle and Molly's sister (Colleen?) and her pal, Name Iforget, at about mile 6 of our New Year's Day run. We ran into Molly and Mr. Iforget, who were hiking.

BLECH!

If my New Year's Day run is any indication, I'm in for a shite-filled year! This doesn't happen too often, but I pretty much bonked near the start of a tough 23-miler Jan. 1, from the Candy Store on Ortega Highway up through Blue Jay Campground and to the top of the Trabuco Trail and back.

It's a grind of a run by any standard, and no fun when you are feeling crappy.

Whatever. I'm over it.

If I had to guess, I would say lack of sleep did me in but I think I caught a bug because a day later, I still feel sorta sick.

Despite my own "woe is me" experience, it was beyond great to start 2009 with some of my closest friends in the world.

We had a huge turnout for what has become a traditional New Year's Day run. We tried to run 20.09 miles (for 2009, get it?) but the iMichelle, Keira, Jamison, Chuck and the other speedsters decided to run all the way up the Main Divide to the top of the Trabuco Trail, and made my ordeal even longer.

"Dude, we're gonna need some longer shorts."

I won't hold it against them!

I simply had no energy. I keep telling myself that the accomplishment is so much greater when one struggles, but it's tough to digest such nuggets of wisdom when you feel like you're about to hurl.

(from left) Chuck, iMichelle, Martin, Keira, Shannon, Jamison

I pushed through and nearly collapsed inside my car.

Anyway, it still was the best way to start off 2009.

George and Leigh, post run

Happy New Year, everyone!

Change your socks.

Love,
Greggie

New dirt

2008-12-27T17:02:00.001-08:00

Looking north from the Main Divide, near Pleasant Peak.

Saturday I ran a portion of the Main Divide that was new to me: from the top of the Silverado Trail (formerly the Silverado Motorway) 5+ miles west (hang a left), past Pleasant Peak and stopping at an adjacent peak.

Because of time constraints, adventurous running pal Linda and I had to stop and turn around about 2.5 miles before the Main Divide intersects with the Black Star Canyon fireroad, and also before we hit the white "Death Star" orb.

One day soon I hope to run all 40 miles of the Main Divide, which winds along the top of the Santa Ana Mountains for some of the best trail running in Orange County.

Who's in? Water drops will be a must, of course.

Our out-and-back run on Saturday totaled 18+ miles. My Garmin is broke so I don't have specifics but I know there was a lot of climbing; the Silverado Trail alone is about 1,500 feet in less than 3.5 miles.

The section of the Main Divide we ran Saturday passes the Eagle Trail (which drops down to Corona) and hits 4,000 feet. It's a beautiful and challenging run, with great, panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean to the south and the majestic Mt. Baldy range to the north (dusted in snow).

Linda and I also could see on this gorgeous winter morning the entire stretch of mountains from San Gorgonio and Big Bear all the way to the Pasadena area. Catalina and the skyscrapers of downtown LA also were visible.

This section of the Main Divide is gorgeous but beware, there's a lot of climbing in both directions. It's a helluva workout! There were sections of bushy pine trees and windswept grasslands --- a great variety of scenery.

Oh, and it's very uncrowded. We saw two mountain bikers on the Main Divide and a couple of hikers on the Silverado Trail the entire morning.

The chill that warms the soul

2008-12-20T13:37:00.001-08:00

Maple Springs

I didn't feel so hot today. Busy times. At about 10:45 a.m., I walked out my door and started running. Turned left. Elevation: 1,500.

Freezing. Should have worn two layers. Oops. Neared the gate at the end of Silverado Canyon Road. Lots of cars on the shoulder. What's up? Ah, the recent rains. The chill in the air. Snow? There it is! Not too far away. Pockets of it. How much beyond?

Kept running.

Rushing creek. Precious music. Nature's soundtrack. Seems like years. Been bone-dry. Dead bushes. Dry browns and greens. Beautiful in a desert kind of way. The parched landscape.

Not now.

Lots of people. A snowman! Where am I? Jolly kids. All bundled up. Happy couple. People everywhere.

Kept running. Fewer people. Elevation 2,000. Icy road. Banks of snow like frozen blankets of cotton on the shoulders. Slush. Hikers with poles. Me in my shorts. Crazy boy.

Not too cold, though.

Defeated mountain bikers. Got off their bikes. Impossible to ride. So they went for a run. Hard enough to do that.

Slosh slosh crunch slosh slosh up Maple Springs, to 3,600 feet. 4.5 miles from the gate. Foot-deep snow. Few tracks. Feet cold.

Today, after walking out my door, after turning left and running, after going up and then down, logging 12 miles of enchantment, I experienced all that I would ever need to in one day.

Now, I am full. Complete. Filled up.

I drank in the chill that warms the soul.

Exciting news about The Coastal Challenge

2008-12-16T13:00:00.000-08:00

Ultra-running god Scott Jurek has confirmed that he will be participating in next month's The Coastal Challenge in Costa Rica. Thanks, Scott --- you decide to run it after I decide to wait until 2010 for my second go-around.

But wait --- Jurek says he'll run The Coastal Challenge in 2010, too!

Far out!

From Coastal Challenge coordinator Tim Meyer: "Jurek and his sponsor Brooks have decided to race The Coastal Challenge this year and next year. Jurek is the course record-holder and consecutive seven-time champion of the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run, two-time champion of the Badwater Ultramarathon, defending two-time Spartathlon champion, and winner of the Hardrock 100 Mile Endurance Run. He is excited to attend TCC."

Freaking awesome! I'm sure all the participants are excited, too.

The Coastal Challenge is a fabulous six-day stage race that I credit with transforming me into an ultrarunner. Do the Coastal Challenge, and you can run anything. It's managed by a class-act group and there's never a dull moment.

There's still time to sign up for the upcoming race, to be held Jan. 31 -Feb 7. Sign up through me and I can get you a 5 percent discount. Email me at U2boy14@hotmail.com for details, or poke around this site along the right-hand side of the main page.

Great job, Tim Holmstrom and all The Coastal Challenge organizers!

See you in 2010. I can't wait to hear from all my friends who are running the upcoming "Rainforest Expedition Run" in Costa Rica. You're only a month or so away from the experience of your life --- and of having a chance at teaching Jurek a lesson.

Heh heh, just kidding Scott.

The howling wind

2008-12-14T14:19:00.000-08:00

I should have brought my gloves.

Every race has a personality. Twin Peaks 2008 forever will be remembered as a grueling exercise in tenacity (stupidity?) in blizzard-like conditions with the temperature dipping to 35 near the higher elevations (4,000 to 5,600).

Welcome to sunny California.

I prefer the cold to heat, but this was ridiculous! Of course, I need to invest in gloves and a windbreaker. I layered --- with a whopping two shirts. Duh!

View from about Mile 32 along the West Horsethief trail.

Screw the climbing, although with nearly 14,000 feet of elevation gain Twin Peaks is a monster 50 miler (there's also a tough 50k) --- one that tests the grit of anyone. You basically have to run up a mountain twice. But on Saturday, all that anyone could think about was how damn cold it was.

I didn't even bring gloves. Karl Borg, working the aid station at the bottom of Holy Jim, loaned me an extra pair at mile 30 as I started the long slog back up to Santiago Peak for a second time. Those gloves saved me.

Gorgeous colors near the bottom of West Horsethief.

The fierce winds were numbing, the scenery mostly a milky white haze. It was a grind in the clouds. Gorillas in the mist. Idiots in trail shoes (what were we doing out there?)

The cold, however, helped: It numbed the pain created by all that climbing and the pounding downhills. The haze also obscured most of the path ahead, which for me made climbing easier. In trailrunning, at least, one does not dread what one does not see.

Due to a staggered start and the crap weather, which forced many runners to wisely call it a day, I spent most of the miles running alone. Good thing my iPod was jam-packed with U2, Tori and others. They were great company.

Fred Pollard, at around mile 10

These are my home trails, and I love them.

I had been on every inch of the course many times during different runs. Taken together, the Twin Peaks 50-miler is a screaming whopper of a doozy ultra, on some of the most beautiful trails around. Too bad the weather prevented us from drinking in the views. All we drank in Saturday were gusts of freezing air.

Leigh Corbin

It's hard enough trying to explain to non-runners why we run 50-milers --- or 50ks or 100-milers or whatever. I'm afraid to talk about Saturday too much out of fear my non-running friends will abandon me, considering me a lost cause.

This run really got me thinking: Why do I do this? It's not that simple of a question. For me, I think it has to do with something about finishing what I start. If I sign up for a 50-miler, in my twisted mind, then I must complete the 50-miler. Why? A sense of self-satisfaction, I suppose.

Kirk Fortini

Certainly, running some of those miles doesn't feel good. Maybe running 50 miles (actually, it worked out to 52 miles) in freezing weather in the mountains also taps into my desire to be unconventional. I think I would bore myself to death, for example, if I golfed.

Nothing against golfers, but there's nothing like ultrarunning to push my body and mind to the limit. And why is that good? I think it boils down to my desire to life an interesting life -- one full of challenges and ups and downs and new experiences. If that's crazy, I'll take it every day.

Christmas colors

Before every race, I question my ability to finish. I didn't feel that I was in "race shape" before Twin Peaks since I had not planned on running it until the last minute. I had been prepping for the Avalon 50 in mid-January. Hah! I guess I'm ready for Catalina.

I don't know how I summoned the strength to finish this puppy. I ate a lot at most aid stations. That helped --- if anything to warm my body. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches tasted like manna from heaven (or Nirvana from the early '90s).

With Steve Harvey at the top of West Horsethief.

The roaming vehicles on the Main Divide also provided a huge mental and spiritual boost (thank you Corrinne and Bob, Charlie, Vinny, Xy and others).

Steve Harvey came through with hot soup and coffee at the unbearably cold spot on the top of West Horsethief. At least I was moving. All of the volunteers had to put up with the cold, too, including Wendy and Tiana, Alexa, Jamison, Carl and others at the bottom of Holy Jim.

With Corrinne at about mile 38 at the top of the Indian Truck Trail.

RD Jessica, of course, deserves thanks for attempting such a logistics-challenged endeavor. She had great help at the start with Lo and Abby, among others.

It's extremely trying work standing around all day, especially when it's freezing, and I thank all of you very kind souls from the bottoms of my worn-out Vasques.

Almost forgot: On my second trip to the summit, I ran into Will Cooper and pals, who were sipping cold beer in a heated vehicle. I still had nine or so miles to go. Will and his buddies had just run their underground Saltwater 5000, the 32-miler from the ocean to Santiago Peak.

"You're an animal!" Will said as I headed off.

At that point, I felt like a lumbering dolt of a beast. But I'll take it as a compliment.

Some Twin Peaks callouts

2008-12-10T11:19:00.000-08:00

A shadow of myself: Twin Peaks 2007

The Twin Peaks 50-miler, held in my backyard, was my first official ultra, way back in February 2007 --- not that long ago, but in aid station years, it's a lifetime ago. I mean, like, my hairstyle was completely different.

Seriously, as I prepare to run the 50-miler this Saturday (Dec. 13), I feel compelled to mention a couple of things, perhaps in the misguided assumption that anyone will actually give a hoot. Maybe I'm getting old and musty, but whatever --- that's what blogs are for, right?

Some long-overdue callouts:

Jessica Deline --- Jessica founded the Orange County Trail Runners, the precursor to the SoCal Trail Headz. There was a falling out that I won't detail here that led to the formation of the SoCal TrailHeadz, but suffice it to say that a lot of shit flew.

People can be negative and mean-spirited and I was one of them. I think it's important to constantly evaluate oneself to see where such impulses come from. Self-enlightenment is a lifelong process, but the important thing is to get started down that path.

I have made being a better person a priority. I aspire to serve others rather than lord over my own petty domain. Life is too damn short for bitterness and bullshit. Thoughts dictate actions, and actions define who we are.

Jessica, thank you for continuing to be a tireless promoter of trail running and all that you do to encourage a love of the outdoors.

Still, your race is ridiculously difficult. Are you flipping insane? : )

***

Bill Parks --- I never met Bill. He ran Twin Peaks last year (the inaugural year) and came in second, right after Michelle Barton in the 50k. A week later, Bill, 41, had a sore throat and went to the doctor.

I'll have my good running friend Marisa Willment tell the rest of the story:

Jessica, the iMichelle and Bill Parks, at Twin Peaks 2007

"I think it was three months later when he died of cancer. He was an amazing Ironman and trail runner. He was a great teacher for the Capistrano Unified School District. He left behind his loving wife and two young kids.

"I most certainly will be thinking of him this weekend. I only had the pleasure of meeting him on the day of the race last year, but a really close friend of ours trained with him religiously.

"Even while he was going through chemotherapy and radiation, he brought his stationary bike to the ward in the hopes that he could still do the Ironman in April. Sadly, that was not to be.

"So, when we are all out there enjoying being alive and healthy, just remember how blessed you are even when you are feeling your worst. You, at least, know you will finish and be out on those trails again, so be grateful for the moment. It's a pleasure and an honor that many are denied."

***

Kirk Fortini --- He's going to kill me, because he hates self-promotion. But I am not Kirk, so I can promote the fact that on Saturday, Kirk will be running 50 miles to raise money for a co-worker whose little girl (1 1/2 years old) has a baseball-sized tumor on her liver.

Kirk, you are the selfless embodiment of the best community of people I have been honored to be a part of: trail-runners.

Plus, you having smoking-hot pecs, although this pix doesn't do them justice.

Oh, and Kirk, quit ordering pizza during runs -- Dean Karnazes already got famous doing that.

See y'all Saturday!

50 miler? Yikes!

2008-12-08T11:35:00.000-08:00

Old Camp.

I haven't run an official ultra since the painful but always required Mt. Disappointment 50-miler in early August, although I have been running consistently ever since (although a few miles short of my 45-mile-per-week goal, on average).

I will run the Avalon 50 Benefit Run on Catalina Island in mid-January. I am signed up to volunteer at this Saturday's much tougher Twin Peaks 50 miler/50k, but Keira and Pam are pressing me to run the 50-miler with them.

If my pacing and volunteering commitments get covered, I'm in.

Am I ready? I don't know. I've been enjoying Maple Springs and the Santiago Truck Trail lately.

I think the question always should be, "Why not?" Or, "If not now, when?"

After all, with all these relatively easier "fun runs" these past few months, it's time for me to wipe this smile off my face. Fifty miles is guaranteed to do that.

Yeah, I know. Me nuts. Yeah, so?

Above the clouds -- again!

2008-12-03T18:10:00.000-08:00

This is turning into a habit -- a good one.

While most of Orange County has been sleeping under a think blanket of fog the last two days, I've been getting a tan with fellow runners on the Santiago Truck Trail. This morning I ran with Chuck and Linda. The following images are courtesy of Chuck. These runs have been truly spectacular as far as scenery, in addition to the great company and workouts.

Enjoy!

Chuck writes in the journal at the flag, at the 3.7-mile point.

Linda signs the journal while I check my hair.

Dawn along the Santiago Truck Trail

2008-12-02T18:03:00.000-08:00

Some images from my 15-miler early this morning:

Lisa, Jamison and Alexa

Clouds over Rancho Santa Margarita

Sunrise

Be nice to your park ranger

2008-11-30T12:14:00.000-08:00

Rio at top of Dreaded Hill, Whiting Ranch.

"Sorry to rain on your parade," the park ranger said at the gate leading into Whiting Ranch on Sunday morning -- the Serrano trail, near the Starbucks meeting spot on Portola. "But the trail is closed. There's still too much damage from the rain."

Wendy in Sleepy Hollow

Maybe it was Alexa and Wendy, looking fetching as always, or maybe it was my son, Rio, 14, joining us on a warm, breezy, gorgeous day.

It certainly wasn't me.

But after quickly sizing us up, Park Ranger Raul Murillo reconsidered, and asked us a favor.

Alexa and Rio on the Serrano Cow Trail.

"Can you please tell people you run into that the park is closed? The gate will be locked when you get back."

We promised to avoid running in the mud to minimize damage to the trails.

And then we were off, Rio and I for a five-miler and Wendy and Alexa for a dozen or so miles.

We tend to gripe about rules and regulations, but Mr. Murillo deserves kudos for kindly allowing us to run -- without us protesting one bit. He must have sensed the disappointment on our faces and changed his mind.

We didn't even have time to beg him to reconsider.

During our run, Wendy told a few mountain bikers roaring down the trail that the park was closed, but they didn't seem to hear her -- or care.

We all should take a second to be grateful for all the great trails we have at our disposal. I hate to sound like a flippin' do-gooder, because God knows I've flaunted the rules on many a run, but this morning's encounter reminded me to be nice to all of our hard-working park rangers.

In fact, be nice to everyone. Smiles and a little kindness go a long way.

Up the Cactus Trail

Thanks again, Mr. Murillo!

Return to Maple Springs

2008-11-25T16:22:00.000-08:00

Linda going down the Silverado Trail, at about mile 15.

Robert Schipsi and I during our 17-mile Maple Springs extravaganza. Linda Fox also joined us.

My "home" trail, Maple Springs, officially has reopened. It's the trail at the end of Silverado Canyon Road that snakes 7.5 miles up to the Main Divide. It's the trail that got me started, more or less, as an ultrarunner when I moved to Silverado Canyon in March 2006. I had missed not running Maple Springs for the last 13 months due to the Santiago fire.

Robert near fire-damaged trees near the top of Maple Springs, before it hits the Main Divide.

The first three miles of Maple Springs are paved. It's what's beyond that really is magical. The 4.5 miles of fireroad that winds uphill to the Main Divide provide spectacular views of the canyon and beyond. Atop Maple Springs, where the trail bisects Main Divide, you can enjoy a nearly 360-degree panoramic view.

Robert and Linda, chugging up Maple Springs.

Awesome, truly.

Then comes more fun: continuing along the Main Divide as it circles back around the canyon, then down the Silverado Trail (formerly the Silverado Motorway) for one of the best loops in Orange County: 17 miles that include grand views, challenging uphills, speedy downhills and the famously steep and rocky 3.2-mile singletrack that is the Silverado Trail.

Linda, along the Main Divide

Where the fire stopped is apparent.

A great day for a run.

Running while I worked

2008-11-19T13:35:00.001-08:00

While covering the recent fires for the Orange County Register, photographer Mindy Schauer coaxed me to run through torched Chino Hills. Or maybe it was my idea. The park will be closed for months. At least I was able to get in a few strides.

Here's hoping that the park rapidly heals, and that those who lost their homes or suffered damage find the support and love they need to get their lives back together.

Again

2008-11-15T19:36:00.000-08:00

The fire starts in Corona on Saturday morning. The hills in the foreground, in Modjeska Canyon, burned in the Santiago fire a year ago/Photo by Wendy Garcia

I ran the Santiago Truck Trail last year, hours before the Santiago fire started and decimated Modjeska Canyon and tens of thousands of acres of the Cleveland National Forest.

Today, I ran the Santiago Truck Trail again --- the first time in more than a year.

Jamison, a couple of hours before we saw smoke.

Just a few miles from completing our 16-mile run, we saw it: stomach-churning clouds of black smoke billowing from behind the ridges of the Black Star Canyon/Irvine Lake area.

Fire.

Again.

Ironically, I happened to be running at the time with Jamison, an L.A. County firefighter. The winds were strong, the humidity non-existent and the air hot, so we had been discussing the other fires that had sprouted up in the last few days throughout SoCal.

Then, we saw the smoke -- and I thought, Not again. Then I realized:

Again.

Everything out there is bone dry.

Orange County is gripped in yet another devastating firestorm (as are other areas of Southern California), and I am sick with despair, worry and concern. The casualties of lost homes and other property are mounting by the minute.

A day so full of joy once again was hijacked by catastrophe.

Please do what you can to help the fire victims, and never take for granted what you have.

Saddleback Marathon

2008-11-09T07:31:00.001-08:00

Reina helps work the lower Holy Jim aid station

I had planned to run Baz Hawley's Saddleback Marathon (Nov. 8) for the first time but instead manned the aid station at the bottom of Holy Jim, at around Mile 9. Hey, gotta do what the man says, or face a torrent of expletives (wait, that's when Baz is in a good mood).

Rio races to help mark the trail.

Keira and my kids Reina and Rio and I got set up early on a beautiful morning -- we had everything. Keira even brought her pink Barbie Doll medicine chest that was filled with enough pharmaceuticals to put Long's Drug Store out of business.

Before the first runners came through, Keira and I marked the course from the bottom of the Trabuco Trail to the bottom of Holy Jim (there are a few tricky spots), and then Rio and I marked the portion up to the turnoff to Holy Jim Falls. Rio was entranced by this particularly beautiful section of the Santa Ana Mountains, which remains one of my favorite spots. Robo and his wonder dog, Brandi, helped out, too!

Rob McNair (left) near the lead at around Mile 10.

It's always great seeing familiar faces charge through the aid station, but the time spent with everyone is always too brief. There's a flurry of activity and boom, we're done. We were back on the road home by 11:30 a.m.

Martin Brooks (right)

I barely had time to chat with everyone but it was great to see Tony, Beiyi, Rachael, Kristin, Chris, Pete, Marisa, Jean, Pete, Michael V., Lo, Rachael, Shelli, Jeff, Martin, Rob, Kevin, iMichelle and iDad, Steve, Anne and everyone else I'm forgetting who went by in a blur.

The iDad handed out rolled-up $1 bills to aid station volunteers.

Baz is still cursing as he walks around Blue Jay hankering for a brewski, so I don't have race results, but I do know that iMichelle was the top female finisher in just over four hours and San Diego Bad Rat Tracy Moore won for the guys, probably in sub-3:30.

You runners are amazing. This marathon is fun but brutal and I salute each of you. My job, in comparison, was a breeze, and as usual it was our privilege to serve you.

Chris Diaz with his shirt on

The usual view of iMichelle -- from behind.

Just push through it

2008-11-01T14:52:00.001-07:00

Keira, Lisa and Maya near Blue Jay on tough 20-miler today.

Never stop --- it's one of the lessons from running I apply to life. Keep going. Don't quit. It's difficult at times, sure, but keep the momentum. One step forward. Then another. Stop when you are at the finish line.

Then start again.

Most of us today felt crappy near the end of a 20-miler from the Candy Store on Ortega Highway to Blue Jay Campground and back. It got hot. Some of us are behind in sleep. There were a few funky stomachs. Hardly a run happens without somebody feeling the effects of something. Excuses are easy. Life gets in the way. But you keep going.

One step. Then another.

Never stop. Dream out loud.

It works.

It's beautiful.

Alexa ("Lexie") and Lisa.

Fall leaf, Chiquita Trail

Chillin'

Keira and Maya

Out and about

2008-10-27T07:12:00.000-07:00

It's all about the running, folks!

From 16-mile Black Star Canyon run Saturday:

From TrailHeadz new member run in Whiting Ranch on Sunday:

From son Rio's cross-country competition Saturday at Mt. Sac:

Above it all

2008-10-21T19:58:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like a run to the top of Santiago Peak (5,600 feet) to feel high. There's just no substitute.

People moan about the ugly assemblage of cell towers and other electrical riff-raff atop the summit, but it's a special place and one of those accomplishments you look forward to repeating but, somehow, don't get around to doing nearly enough. Maybe that's what makes running to the highest point in Orange County so special.

On a clear day, the view can't be beat. And so it was Sunday, when Molly, Lisa and Chuck joined me for a glorious morning of running.

We ran up Holy Jim, an old favorite, for 4.8 miles to the junction of Main Divide. We hung a left and climbed the remaining 3.2 to the summit. Then we turned around and ran back. It's one of the most satisfying 16 miles of running to be had in Orange County.

Along the Upper Holy Jim trail

Chuck, an elite runner, led the way. I lugged extra water (I've learned my lessons long ago to overprepare for runs on these trails) and tried to keep up with him.

Lisa and Molly hung just a bit behind us. It was the first time to the summit for Chuck and Molly. It's always a kick feeding off the buzz of first-time visitors to Santiago Peak.

We took a slight detour, down the unmarked Upper Holy Jim trail, which added another quarter mile to our run.

Only about 1 mile long, the Upper Holy Jim trail is one of the most beautiful trails anywhere in Orange County, boasting views that simply are spectacular. Heck, it gets my vote for the most gorgeous mile of trail running in the county.

Runs like this underscore why it's great to be alive. I truly am blessed.

Sock it to 'em!

2008-10-14T18:46:00.000-07:00

OK, those who know me well know that I usually have no clue about the brand of shoe I'm wearing (though I'm getting better) or the type of straightener gel I put in my hair, but it's time I came clean on a totally amazing running product that you all need to know about:

Socks.

Sure, most runners wear them, but most runners I know give little thought to them. Until I wore Swiftwick socks, I didn't care, either.

Those of you who have been unfortunate enough to see my toes and feet up close know that they are thrashed. Well, methinks I won't trash them anymore after wearing Swiftwick socks.

Lemmesplain:

I recently ran a tough 23.5 miler in the mountains that included pounding downhills and some technical stuff, and it was as if I were wearing new shoes (even though I wasn't). It made a HUGE diff to be wearing the perfect socks. I didn't get any blisters or "hot spots," except for somewhere else but that's an entirely different story. Calm down, I was referring to nipple burn.

Like a perfect pillow, Swiftwick socks are cushy but not overly plush, comfortable but not coddling, there but not there -- like a good pair of socks should be.

You shouldn't notice socks while running, and I didnt't. All I know is when my run was over my toes looked like they had just emerged from one of those pink bins filled with silky warm water at the pedicure joint down the street. Yes, I used to be a metrosexual.

Dude, you don't need to be packing Swiftwicks in there to get the chicks. Sheesh!

I will never run in other socks. From the jungles of Costa Rica to the meth lab-strewen stretches of the Inland Empire, I've run on a lot of varied terrain and these puppies are the best.

Buy them. You're welcome. You will thank me.

Go to www.swiftwick.com and enter in Redemption Code "TRD" and you’ll save 10% upon checking out your online cart.

Sock it to 'em!

Beautiful day

2008-10-13T09:15:00.000-07:00

Kirk on a brief break, with four laps to go.

Running, they say, is an individual pursuit, but really it is so much more. It's about community. It's about drive and dreams and living in the moment and celebrating life and, crucially, it's about "we" and not "I."

Reina, near the sign-up table

All of this was on vivid display Sunday at a benefit run for a fallen teen I have blogged about, Megan Myers. Several hundred kind souls came out to a park in Laguna Niguel to run in a 5k benefit run for a foundation set up in her name.

The money pays for Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and for their installion at schools, and also goes toward scholarships for gifted high school runners. Last year's inaugural Megan Myers Memorial 5k raised about $4,600 --- this year, the Myers family of Dana Point smashed that amount while race-day registration was still going on. Members of the SoCal Trail Headz accounted for $255 of that -- with more on the way.

Megan's sister, Madison (center) works the registration table.

Megan, a freshman at Dana Hills High School in Dana Point, died last year at age 14 of a heart ailment while running a cross-country race. Sunday was all about celebrating her too-brief life.

It was a gorgeous day, sunny with a slight breeze, at Laguna Niguel Regional Park. I ran in the 5k with my son Rio, while daughter Reina helped out and enjoyed the park. The energy and positive vibe generated by the crowd of about 400 was amazing.

Although he hates attention, good friend and ultra-running comrade Kirk Fortini deserves accolades for going the extra mile, literally: He ran 11 laps for 30-plus miles.

Getting ready to run.

Kirk gave up his day to do this because he realizes there's a much bigger point to life than personal accomplishments -- that sometimes, the greatest joy can be had by being in the service of others.

A special thanks to all the runners and volunteers and those who donated their money and energy to this fabulous cause.

POSTSCRIPT: I just got this email from Megan's mother, Gail Myers. This year's run generated nearly quadruple the amount of last year's!! Here are excerpts from her email (reprinted with her permission):

Hi Greg-

Kirk was such an inspiration to all of us! His journey yesterday was on everyone's minds and I am still getting comments about his dedication. What a guy! We raised over $15,000 for this event, which is truly incredible!!

This is so new to us and I really didn't even know what to expect! I just remember looking up the street and seeing wall-to-wall people walking to the registration table, and just being in awe!!!

I can picture the expression that Megs had on her face yesterday: just sheer disbelief that so many came to honor her memory.

Please thank your running club and the running community who is so supportive of our family, and of Megan's memory, and for helping us create a safer and smarter world out there!

Gail

More images from a wonderful day:

The Myers family addresses the crowd.

Rio finishing

The crowd cheers on Kirk

Misty eyed

2008-10-05T07:04:00.000-07:00

Atop the Holy Jim Trail in the Santa Ana Mountains.

It had been too long.

I joined Keira, Gina, Kevin, Lisa O, Pete, Charlie, Ted, Steve, Annie and Chris for a tough but glorious run in the Santa Ana Mountains yesterday, at elevations up to 4,400, where a misty cloud cover reminded us that fall had indeed arrived and even colder days were coming. Running in a long-sleeved shirt felt odd.

Ted and Charlie.

The mountains were gorgeous, with vivid rusts and browns amid the lush greens. Nothing can beat running on relatively remote single-track trails amid pines, alders and wild fig trees and tangly bushes. It's a special feeling, especially when combined with good friends. I needed this run.

We followed the challenging route of the Saddleback Marathon, cutting out a portion of asphalt at the start to reduce our run to 23.5 miles. The tough climbs (and quad-burning downhills) on the Main Divide, Trabuco and Holy Jim trails (one of my favorites) did a number on my legs. Total elevation gain was around 5,100. Burn, baby burn!

Lisa, Pete

I will run the Saddleback Marathon on Nov. 8 and, being very familiar with the course, now have a better idea of where to turn on the jets and where to go easy. I'm not obsessed with my finish time but it would be great to do this one in 4:30. It's billed as the toughest marathon in California. Who knows? It's beautiful and in my backyard, and that's good enough for me.

Who needs a therapist when one has these trails?

Kevin

Pete

Gina

Keira

Annie and Steve

Gina

Annie and I

Run 4 Megan 5k Run/Walk

2008-09-30T10:56:00.000-07:00

Megan Myers, 3/30/1993 - 9/26/2007

Megan Myers is one of my running angels. I never met her; sadly, I had to write about her death, at age 14:

Story here

My son, Rio, 14, just started cross-country and I was there Saturday for the Dana Hills Invitational, in Dana Point. That was the last race Megan completed before she collapsed and died during another competition in Laguna Niguel last September.

Her story will stay with me, partly because I'm a runner, partly because I'm a father, but also because I realize how lucky I am to be healthy and able to do what I love.

Megan (far left) with her cross-country mates from Dana Hills High School.

Consider running in the second-annual Run 4 Megan 5K Run/Walk on Sunday, Oct. 12 at 11 a.m. at Laguna Niguel Regional Park. Details are here. The modest suggested donation is tax deductible.

And consider how fortunate you are that you did not have to write down these heartbreaking words that Gail Myers, Megan's mom, wrote on the one-year anniversary of Megan's death:

I miss her smile, her smell, her soft youthful skin, her freckles, her stunning eyes, her beautiful hair. I miss her kind heart, her spirit, her spunk, her laugh. I miss the relationship that we had shared. I miss my daughter and my friend.

I picture myself holding a gold box in my hands, which holds her time here on earth, and it is a beautiful box, it is just too small.

Saddleback Marathon

2008-09-25T09:53:00.000-07:00

Run my %$&**# race or else, Baz says

Oops! I forgot about this beauty. I will run it. It'll be held on Nov. 8.

This is a Big Baz production, and is not to be missed. Nothing else is shaking locally at the end of the year so put this on your calendar!

The Saddleback Marathon is rated one of the toughest trail marathons in California. I'm in! Are you?

Future races

2008-09-23T12:12:00.000-07:00

I've been mapping out my upcoming race plans. I usually don't do this, preferring to keep things fluid. One race is a definite: The Old Goats 50-Miler, on March 28, 2009, in Orange County.

I ran the 50k version of this on a hot day last year and it was tough but thrilling. The 50-miler is going to be a doozy!

The Old Goats 50-Miler is in my backyard. I know the trails well. I think all ultrarunners should support local races. Steve "Harvdog" Harvey is the race director. He promises to wash my feet at the finish line --- right, Steve?

Although I have yet to sign up, I also am dead set on running the Angeles Crest 100, next September. It feels right. I will be ready for this, my second 100-miler.

Other likely races:

Avalon Benefit 50-mile Run in January (a great communal experience; not technical at all)
The Coastal Challenge in late January/early February (sheer madness, but lifelong memories)
PCT 50-miler in May (I volunteered this year and can't wait to run it)
Mt. Disappointment 50-miler in August (this is going to be my for-sure annual run)

The son also rises

2008-09-22T14:34:00.000-07:00

Rio Hardesty runs from girls as a newcomer to his high school's cross-country team.

Reconnecting

2008-09-21T15:06:00.000-07:00

Leon, Lorraine and Trotsky, in Fullerton on Sunday.

Sometimes it's nice to unfasten from the routine. Doing something new and not "epic" keeps things fresh. This was my running experience this weekend, and it was rejuvenating. After a few weeks of feeling blah, I feel reconnected to running.

Lori Heinselman-Craig, in Silverado

It was nice to be able to run and talk the entire way. That's rare. I'm used to beating myself up on grueling hills, often solo. That can get old.

Saturday, I organized a double-loop run off of Silverado Canyon Road: one loop a 3-miler behind the horse stables (the last half of the run brand-new to me), the other a 5-miler across the street up and beyond the Irvine Mesa (my regular pre-work run). Several TrailHeadz members showed up, including rarely seen Lori Heinselman-Craig.

Fullerton trails gang.

The loops were a great mix of singletrack, fireroad and views. There were some tough uphills and crazy-steep downhills. It was a gorgeous morning that started with the sun just starting to peak over the Santa Ana Mountains, and ended with black coffee three miles down the road at my pad (coffee never tastes better than after a satisfying morning run).

Eight miles haven't been so fun in, well, I can't remember. The people had a lot to do with that. For most, the trails were new. Discovery is energizing.

Chris Diaz, in Silverado

The satisfaction cut even deeper Sunday, when I ran with folks I don't see a lot of (including Leon Gray, Fred Pollard and Lorraine Gersitz) on trails that mostly were new to me.

Beiyi, Pam and Keira joined us. It had been a while since I had run with them, too. Nearly all of us ran 12.5 miles on some delightful equestrian and hiking trails in Fullerton, joined by Lo's dog and Fred's dog.

Leon, 63, kicked our butts --- even on the uphills.

The run was a tonic for beaten-down Keira, who recently skipped the AC100 because of a lack of sleep and not feeling her usual mojo. The spark she is famous for returned.

Leon teaches Pam, Keira and I a lesson.

Pam and I talked about how "easier" runs in new venues can be so exhilirating. We got a decent physical workout but an incredible mental and spiritual workout.

Running with good friends and sharing new sights can do that. It can be magic, really.

In Silverado.

In Fullerton

The Coastal Challenge 2009, Rain Forest Run

2008-09-17T14:16:00.000-07:00

Watch this and tell me you don't want to do this.

Lost weekend

2008-09-15T07:08:00.000-07:00

Photo by Pam Everett

At the last minute, I ended up not going to the Angeles National Forest this weekend for the Angeles Crest 100-Mile Endurance Run, a fabled, old-school run that is ranked more difficult than the even more famous Western States 100, in Northern California.

LT (center) with pacers Beiyi Zheng and Shelli Sexton. Photo: Lorraine Gersitz

Keira decided not to run it, not feeling well at the start. She's a smart runner and I totally respect her decision regarding a race that demands total respect.

Her decision left me pondering how many variables go into starting a race like the AC100. The mind reels during the weeks and days leading up to the big day. If you've done your training properly, the body is ready. Just like in other aspects of life, it's the mind that can get in the way.

Pam Everett (pacer) and Carl Borg. Photo courtesy of Pam Everett

"Can I really do this? How am I going to feel at Mile 50? What the hell am I thinking? What if I die out there? Am I strong enough? Did I overtrain
? Did I not train enough?"

These and a million other questions swamp the mind. I've learned first-hand that the real power of finishing a 100-mile race is to stay in the moment and just keep moving. That is easier said than done. In the end, it's the mental toughness that gets you through. It's the voice in your head saying, "Isn't this great? I'm doing something very special. Forget the past and future. Relish the now."

Charlie Nickell (pacer) and Dennis Koors.

My congratulations to all the AC100 finishers, to those who had to call it a day for various reasons, to those who trained so hard for this, and especially, to all the volunteers and pacers who make these events possible -- selfless folks like Bill Ramsey, Steve and Ann Harvey, Pam Everett, Lo Gersitz. The list goes on. I will run this next year. I hope to be so lucky to have the support of such awesome people.

Pacing Keira

2008-09-08T09:57:00.000-07:00

Don't mess with the iKarly.

Is the Angeles Crest 100 becoming a pacing habit for me? Seems so, and I couldn't be happier.

Last year, I paced Robert at the AC100. This Saturday, I will be pacing my close running pal (she's so much more, of course) Keira Henninger as she tackles one of the toughest 100-milers around. I will be running with her from Mile 75. I am very honored to have her entrust me with such an awesome responsibility.

It's difficult to talk about Keira (iKarly is her nickname) without getting all misty-eyed. I ran my first official ultra with her, the 50-miler Twin Peaks, in Feb. 2007. It took us 12 hours. We ran almost the entire course together. Talk about a bonding experience.

I gladly take credit for taking this pix (right). Keira and iMichelle at The Unknown K.

In the 17 months since then, I have become amazed at this 31-year-old married mother's amazing drive and spirit. Keira's kindness and enthusiasm rub off on everyone. She's a superb role model and one of the nicest humans on this planet.

We are similar in speed and endurance but I am totally happy admitting that Keira can whip my butt now on the trails. If I were a girl, I'd wanna be her.

I love you, sista!

What running feels like

2008-08-29T12:13:00.000-07:00

One benefit of running with a cell phone

2008-08-29T11:48:00.000-07:00

The sun comes over a ridge in Silverado Canyon on Friday morning.

The mountain biker resting in the shade outside the Silverado Canyon General Store laughed at me.

"You ran 18 miles," he said, "and had to call someone to pick you up with only two miles to go?"

Yeah, dude, rub it in.

Plagued by a lack of sleep and not drinking enough water recently, I crashed after a tough run this morning, only 2 miles from my home. I could have made it, of course, but why go through more misery? So I called my pacer to come pick me up. Screw it, I thought. Eighteen miles is decent.

It felt unusually hot in Silverado Canyon, with nary a breeze.

I took off out my front door at 6:30 a.m., ran three miles down the road heading out of the canyon, then did a tough 2-mile climb on the Silverado Truck Trail, then enjoyed a nice 1.5-mile downhill through Williams Canyon, and did a few miles of pavement on the shoulder of Santiago Canyon Road. Then I entered Whiting Ranch from the back side and climbed up to the bench in memory of Mark Reynolds that sits atop Dreaded Hill.

That was 10 miles. Then I retraced my steps, planning for 20. I felt really sapped climbing up Williams Canyon. It was hot hot!

The bench

So I made the call.

Oh well. I've never done that before. Sometimes it's better to cut your losses to avoid suffering needlessly.

SoCal TrailHeadz Promo

2008-08-28T15:30:00.000-07:00

Check this out. Member Ryan Yohn, a teacher and married father of a young child, just launched a side business, Leaf Films. His excellent work speaks for itself. Hire this talented dude!

Quietville

2008-08-25T09:33:00.001-07:00

Not having run much in the last week, here's a shot at the start of the recent Mt. Disappointment 50m/50k, courtesy of Pam Everett. From left, Michael Voris, me, Kirk, Robert and Charlie. All of us belong to the SoCal TrailHeadz and have quite a bit of running history together. Ah, the stories we could tell...

I ran a great 16-miler in Black Star Canyon on Sunday (following a fab 15-miler in Whiting Ranch the day before) when good friend and running mate Pam Everett asked me, "So, what's next for you?" I thought for a second and realized that I had no idea.

But that's OK.

Taking a cue from Karno's latest book, I'm in a mode of exploratory fun runs -- just taking off with a rough plan, an ATM card and some supplies. Will make a day of it soon. I may run the Noble Canyon 50k in late September. The debut race last year was grand. I highly recommend it.

Keira, in civilian garb

Up next is pacing dear pal Keira at the AC100. I was supposed to pace Coach Charlie at his planned first 100-miler, Rio del Lago, but he has revamped his racing plans so that won't happen -- freeing me up to run Noble Canyon.

I camped with my kids in Two Harbors, Catalina Island last week and took six whole days off from running. We kayaked. Great cross-training! It's always good to take off, now and then, from a routine running schedule to recharge and give your body a break.

Now I'm feeling grand and ready to pound the trails!
It's a good life.

The Coastal Challenge: Why She's Doing It

2008-08-15T11:47:00.000-07:00

Maya Kass, Kristen Trujillo and Rachael Kadell

You don't have to be an elite runner to take on The Coastal Challenge. You just have to want it badly.

In a continuing series of profiles of people who have signed up for this amazing, six-day stage race (about 135 miles) through the jungles of Costa Rica, we asked Orange County, Calif. resident Kristen Trujillo why the heck she is doing the Coastal Challenge in Jan./Feb. 2009 with her two running buddies, Maya and Rachael.

Is she nuts? No. Just fit, and ready for adventure. My kind of person.

(To read a previous post about Rachael, click here).

Hey Maya, you're next!

By the way, if you sign up for The Coastal Challenge through me, you get a 5-percent discount. Click on the photo on the right side of this blog for details.

Anyway, about Kristen:

She is 37, and grew up in Carlsbad. She has lived in Irvine for seven years and is the single mother of a musically gifted 18-year-old boy, Robert. Kristen has been working as a Cytogenetic Technologist for 11 years.

We don't know what the hell that means, Kristen, but it sure sounds impressive.

"I've been athletic my entire life, with my main interests being running and cycling," Kristen says.

"I ran the very first Carlsbad 5000 when I was 15, and I completed the Rosarito-to-Ensenada 50-mile bike ride when I was 16.

"Although I ran and biked off and on over the years, I became 'serious' about running five years ago when I decided I needed to lose some weight."

Kristen happened to be thumbing through the classes offered by Irvine Community Services, and one of them was "How to Run a Marathon." The class started the next day, and Kristen showed up.

"And that was that!" she says.

Says Kristen: "There is nothing quite like the feeling of crossing the finish line of your first marathon. As a result, I'm still friends with several people from that first training group, and I became hooked on marathons.

"The next year, I joined TNT (Team in Training) as a fundraiser, then again as a mentor. Now I'm a member of two running groups: FROC (Friends Run Orange County) and the SoCal TrailHeadz."

The FROC group has many friends from Kristen's TNT days, and the TrailHeadz help her fulfill her current passion of running and training out on the trails.

Kristen has completed six marathons and one ultra, a 50k, and about 20 half-marathons.

"Honestly, I can't say what my future running goals are, except to complete the Lake Tahoe Triple Marathon at the end of September, and to have an awesome time running in Costa Rica."

So, why did Kristen decide to take on The Coastal Challenge?

"Hahaha...well...I love Costa Rica. I love running. I love pushing myself to the limit and surviving.

"I read about this race in Competitor magazine, and it took about 10 seconds for me to say, 'I want to do that!'

"I e-mailed my two partners in crime, Maya and Rachael, and here we are!

"The race will not be easy, but that's the whole fun of it.

"You could describe me as your 'average adrenaline junky.' I'm not extremely fast, I don't have any 50- or 100-milers behind me, I love to eat and drink beer, and I carry slightly more weight that your sinewy trail runner.

"What I have going for me are guts and determination. The idea of running through the jungle, with high humidity, tons of bugs, camping out every night, represents the ultimate adventure.

"I'm not going there to win; I'm going there to experience something that can't be experienced anywhere else, and maybe to learn something new about myself, and to come away with a heightened sense of what I am capable of.

"Although I've been through many tough things in my life, running has given me more a sense of self than any other thing. The stress release that it offers, as well as the confidence I have built from my accomplishments, has made me a better mom, daughter, friend, employee --- pretty much a better everything.

"Running has been so good to me that I simply want to keep pushing myself to see how much better I can get."

Rock on, girl! We know you're tear it up -- and have the time of your life!

Some thoughts from Dean Karnazes

2008-08-14T08:07:00.000-07:00

We only had time for a short 5-miler at about an 8:30 pace on the bike path at Huntington Beach, but Dean Karnazes, Chuck Goetschel and I had a fab time Wednesday afternoon running and chatting away about life, running, etc.

I interviewed Dean in my capacity as a reporter for The Orange County Register. The story, timed to Dean's book-signing Saturday in Costa Mesa, will appear online at www.ocregister.com late this afternoon (Thursday) and in print on Friday in "The Morning Read" feature on the front page of the printed edition.

I didn't have room to write about all we talked about, but Dean spilled details to me about his next big adventure in 2009. It's very exciting stuff.

I also was carrying so much audio equipment for a video that will appear with the story on the Register's web site that I wasn't able to snap any pictures of us running. Oh well.

Here are a few quotes that didn't make the story:

* "You’re welcome to call my wife anytime for counseling." --- Dean, to the fiancee of Goetschel, a fellow ultra-runner

* "I'm very plugged into this area, man. I love it." --- on Orange County

* "Dude, that was way harder than running the marathons. It was a frickin’ circus. I’m still not comfortable with it. We’re runners. We’re introverts by nature. It was like, 'Get me out of here.'" --- On dealing with the media after each of his 50 marathons in 50 days.

* "If you want to smell the roses, you’ve got to deal with the thorns, right?" --- On putting up with his celebrity status

* "I tried to reach out to people that aren’t running ultramarathons, that maybe just want to run a 10K or just get off the couch and start running." --- On his new book

* "To be honest, I try to stay out of the business stuff as much as I can. It kind of takes away from the soul of running. The roots of what I love is just to go out for a friggin’ run with my bros. I'd much rather go running and do what I love. That's what I do best."

* "There's magic in misery, I love to say...clearly, there's something in (running) that's addictive. I don't think it's a destructive addiction. I think it's a constructive addiction."

* "Every single one of them was magical...I vividly remember every step of the way. It's imprinted on my mind. It was an incredible 50 days." --- On his 50 marathons in 50 days)

* "The only person I wanted to beat was P.Diddy." --- On the New York Marathon, the last of the 50 he ran

* "There are no shortcuts, no easy road. If you want something, the recipe is commitment and dedication." --- On lessons one learns by running a marathon

* "It never gets any easier." --- On completing the Badwater Ultramarathon seven times.

* "We’re so bombarded these days (by modern society). But running is something so simple and pure that anyone can understand. It’s something so uncluttered."

'The beast is to be respected'

2008-08-11T10:53:00.000-07:00

Mt. Disappointment finishers (from left) Dave Campbell, Jill Childers, Elijah Liao, Carmela Layson, Allan the Cowboy and Ben Gaetos. Photo courtesy of Ben Gaetos.

These are the words of my friend and fellow SD100 finisher Jill Childers, who shaved a whopping 1 hour and 16 minutes off her time at the Mt. Disappointment 50-miler on Saturday. Jill came in at a great 12:22!

The "beast," of course, is Mt. Dis.

I asked Jill if I could post this photo to emphasize what being an ultrarunner is all about -- or should be about. Forget about times. Forget about DNFing. Forget about the struggles. Look at their faces.

Study them.

Nothing more needs to be said.

Dis-spirited

2008-08-10T07:04:00.000-07:00

Before things got ugly

One should never blog in the heat of the moment --- or, in my case, the warmed-over remnants of a brutal ultra. But right now, I'm thinking of ditching long-distance races and taking up knitting. I still want to run, of course -- 20, 35 miles? Perfectly reasonable. Fifty or more? The thought pains.

It's easy to come up with some glib assessment of the Mt. Disappointment 50-miler with a play on its name. So I will: Mt. Dis lives up to its name.

Now, this is in no way a swipe at the stellar RD Gary Hilliard and the beautiful course, which is best enjoyed in small portions. Perhaps it's a more accurate reflection of my mediocre talents as an ultrarunner. I could blame the heat. In any case, I've never felt so trashed after a 50-miler than yesterday's Mt. Dis, held in the Angeles National Forest near L.A. The race tenderized my soul.

I finished in 11:18 -- maybe in the top 20, maybe not. Don't really care.

Actually, I felt strong and very good for the first 32 miles -- really. If the race had ended there, I would be singing its praises. But I didn't even consider dropping to the 50k at miles 26. Was feeling fine.

Again, I shouldn't blame the course, really -- just like that old saying about a good carpenter never blames his tools, or whatever.

Talking with Charlie on the way home, we both were mystified about the strange vortex of pain and misery that Mt. Dis seems to create (at least for us less-talented runners). Charlie got sick at mile 6 but literally gutted out a 50k (after emptying his guts every 10 minutes). Several runners dropped from the 50-miler to the 50-k.

I didn't run with my camera, which is probably good.

I like a challenge as much as the next runner, but there comes a point when pain and despair cloud out all sense of pleasure, and it happened to me at Mt. Dis from mile 32 to the finish, except for a glorious downhill from miles 40-45. I was simply trashed. I drank more than enough and took tons of electrolytes. But I couldn't eat much and nausea came in waves, preventing me from getting enough energy in my body. I had no "pop."

Altitude? For me, I doubt it was the culprit, since the course starts and ends at 5,600 or so (we may have gone to 6,000 -- guess I could check the elevation profile, but it hurts to look).

Heat? Most likely that was a huge factor, hitting 94 in the shade early afternoon, which meant triple digits in the dry canyons.

Climbing? Well, the 50-miler has a cumulative elevation gain of 8,700. Decent, but not earth-shattering.

Besides the infamous last 3.1-mile climb (Kenyon Devore Trail) that takes you to the finish atop Mt. Wilson, the climb that really slays the 50-mile runners is the one from about mile 32 to the Shortcut aid station at mile 40.9.

At mile 32, the course goes down to the San Gabriel River, the lowest location on the entire course, and then climbs to Shortcut. It's very hot and very long -- a hellish fireroad Dante himself would be hard pressed to top.

I don't know, man. I suppose one should never expect a 50-mile race in the mountains to be "fun." Sure, portions always are. But unless one has one of those rare and freakish great races than can't be explained (Tahoe was mine, last year), one always needs to expect to take the bad with the good. When I do the math, I had 36 or so great miles at Mt. Dis -- loved them! So 14 sucked. But those 14 have a way of pushing aside the good stuff.

See what I mean about blogging in the heat of the moment? Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go buy a needle and some yarn.