Voyageur 2016 Race Report

A few days ago, I ran my 5th Voyageur 50 Mile Ultra Trail Race.  This event has become a favorite of mine since I started running ultras in 2012.  The low-key feel of the race, great volunteers, well stocked aid stations, and a challenging course keep me coming back year after year.

I always have a few goals going into a race.  The first is to finish.  Anytime you step up to the start line of a race, you are taking a chance that you might fail.  This becomes even more of an issue as the race gets longer.  I always respect the distance; a lot can happen in 50 miles, and 10-11-12 hours on the trail.  You just never know what can happen or what condition the trail will be in or what Mother Nature might throw at you.  My second goal is to finish in less than 11 hours (and try to pace myself in such a way that my first half time & my second half time aren’t that different.)  My third, and stretch (if everything went perfectly) goal would be to finish as close as possible to 10 and a half hours. 

I made my first goal, and nearly my second goal.  I finished in 11:05.  I am actually really happy about this, even though it isn’t a personal best time on this course. I’m happy because I didn’t quit. 

That’s right.  I didn’t quit.  I wanted to.  I thought about it.  I wondered why the heck I was even doing it.  My favorite race, on well trained legs, with previous experience on this course, and I wanted to quit.  I got to mile 20 and I was really considering hanging it up. 

What went wrong?

Well, I started the day out great, running the first 3 miles with 2 amazing ladies, laughing, enjoying the trail, picking our way through the rocky, technical section that leads to Jay Cooke State Park.  Once we crossed the swinging bridge, the trail opens up and becomes very runnable.  I let my legs speed up and enjoyed the grassy ski trails.  The next few miles were good.  I was feeling good coming into the third aid station where I saw Matt, and our puppy, Raleigh.  I wasn’t sure when I’d see them again, so after a few words, grabbing some peanut butter and jelly sandwich, I was back on the trail. 

Crossing the swinging bridge 3+ miles in.  Endurance Kennels photo.

The next section was ok, but I was starting to feel tired.  It was about 10-11 miles in.  I kept pushing on, and made it to the power lines section.  This section is what makes this race so great – you go up and down these huge hills that are under power lines cut through the woods.  There is no shade, and the climbing and descending can feel never ending.  It’s steep enough that going down is tricky and climbing up sometimes requires the use of grabbing onto the vegetation along the trail.   I powered through this section well enough, and came out on the paved trail to another aid station.  I don’t know if I grabbed anything to eat here, and if I did, it wasn’t enough.

Splashing through one of the creek crossings early on in the race. Endurance Kennels photo.

I left that aid station on the paved trail, and continued on.  But as I went, I was getting more tired, my left calf (that was bugging me in the weeks leading up this event) was nagging me, and as a result I was unloading it in such a way that the right side of my back was starting to hurt.  My mind started to panic. I’m already tired??? I’m only 15 miles in to the 50 total!!! My leg hurts, am I doing permanent damage?? My back hurts, and I’m tired, how am I going to make it?? The negative voices started getting louder.  The voices that tell you you can’t do it.   I was walking up a gravel 2 track at this point, really considering dropping out.  But I had 2 tylenol tucked way in my pack, and I decided that I would start with those, and if they didn’t help or they wore off and I was painful, then I would quit.  But I wouldn’t quit until I gave those a chance to work.

I walked into the next aid station at mile 20 with a glazed look on my face.  Luckily this aid station was packed with ultra-savy volunteers that recognized that I probably needed more calories.  One volunteer refilled my pack with water while I grabbed some coca-cola and a handful of cookies.  I wandered out of the aid station with a full pack, caffeine in my belly & a handful of sandwich cookies to eat on the way.  I continued to walk up the paved road that leads to the next section of trail.  When I reached the trail, I started to run.  And I actually felt ok.  The Tylenol was working; the sugar & caffeine were working.  I was moving a bit faster!

The next section is open, rolling horse trails before another aid station, and then it’s the final kick to the turn around at the Duluth Zoo.  The final kick to the zoo takes you across Spirit Mountain ski area and a lovely, long down hill to the aid station.  During this long downhill, I passed many of the runners coming the other way who were ahead of me and we waved, smiled, and cheered each other on.  My favorite part of this section came when I was passed by a large group of (what looked like) high school cross country runners running up the trail towards me, every single one held their hands out for a passing high five as we met on the trail.  It was so great!  Their energy and enthusiasm carried me to the turn around aid station at mile 25. 

I rolled into the aid station at 5 and a half hours on the clock - way behind my estimated time of 5 hours that I had told Matt to expect me in.  I grabbed some more coca-cola, and something to eat as Matt and Raleigh met me there.  He asked how I was doing, and we walked out of the aid station and up the hill together.  Apparently, he had been at the 20 mile aid station and left before I got there because he thought he missed me.  I have a sneaking suspicion that had I seen Matt at mile 20, I would have turned in my number and called it a day.  I guess everything happens for a reason.

Matt and Raleigh turned off the trail to head to the river to hang out as I continued my power hike back towards the start - 25 miles away.  I was feeling more like myself.  I was able to alternate running and walking the uphill section towards Spirit Mountain ski area.  I was starting to pass a few other runners along the way.

The second half of the race was great.  I felt strong; I ran every section I could.  I climbed up and down the power lines, enjoying the sting of sweat in my eyes as I baked in the mid-day sun.  I cruised through the aid stations grabbing another sip of coca-cola, and pb&j on the way.  I had gone from wanting to quit to “Beast Mode.”  Soon, I was back to the last aid station, 3.4 miles from the start/finish area.  I knew the last few miles were really rocky and slow, so I tried to stay patient, but move efficiently across the trail.  After 2 miles, I turned onto the final section of paved path before turning into Carlton for the finish at the high school.  I didn’t know what time it was, as my GPS watch had died hours before, and honestly, I didn’t care.  I was so happy to have made it through mile 20, find my groove and run a solid second half, that the time was not important.

Another reason I like this event, is that everyone sticks around to cheer other runners in at the finish line.  The lawn next to the school was packed with racers, spectators and volunteers.  You really feel the love when you cross that line.

Post race notes:

My calf still feels ok – not sure why it got so crabby mid-run and now feels ok.

I don’t recommend always fueling for an ultra on coca-cola, & sugar.  This was one of those times that what had worked for me in the past was not working.  So I did what I could to keep the calories coming in to keep moving forward. 

The mind is a powerful thing.  I always tell my coaching clients and athletes, “Where the mind goes, the body will follow.” I KNEW the negative thoughts were getting to me.  I also had learned that if I keep eating, drinking and moving, it would usually pass. 

I am so grateful for the opportunity to run, and be surrounded by amazing people who are a part of this community.  But most of all, I am grateful for a wonderfully supportive husband who is willing to spend his day going from aid station to aid station with puppy in tow, and a smile on his face. 

Matt & Raleigh.  Endurance Kennels photo.

A hard earned finisher's mug!!

Hills, Sweat and ATVs

Otherwise known as the Crown King Scramble 50k.   This was quite an adventure and one of the more challenging 50k races I have done.

Matt and I decided to take a quick “Spring Break” to Arizona this last weekend for a little vacation.  We had some friends in the area and I found a race that fit my 40x40 goal.  (My goal is to do 40 races of a marathon distance or beyond by my 40th birthday in December.)  We flew out of Minneapolis Friday morning, and after an uneventful 3-hour direct flight we were on the ground in sunny Phoenix.  We had a leisurely lunch, found our hotel and enjoyed the company of friends on Friday night.

Soaking up some sun!!!

Saturday morning we awoke to an early alarm to make the final preparations for the race.  Our hotel was on the north side of town, about 30 minutes from the start at Lake Pleasant Park.  We found our way to the park in the pre-dawn light, and I checked in and received my race number.  The morning was calm, and the light breaking over the mountains was beautiful. It wasn’t long before we all were lining up for the 31-mile trek to the town of Crown King.

Pre-race.  M. Leis Photo.

There were about 200 runners who lined up & after a few announcements from the race director (the color of the ribbons marking the course, watch out for ATVs, the course is not closed to other trail users, etc) we were off.

And we're off!  M. Leis Photo

The first mile or so is on pavement out of the park, and it immediately starts to gently climb.  The course is an up hill course with the final 2 miles downhill to the finish line.  I started out trying to meter my pace, and run steady before the sun crested over the hills.   After the first mile or so, the course turns onto a gravel road.  There are some houses out here, but it’s very desolate.  The road is undulating with most of the up hills preceding a nice downhill.  There are a few cars, but they all slow down for the runners. The first aid station is at 8.5 miles and I quickly grab a couple snacks, and continue on down the road. So far, it’s going well, and I’m maintaining a solid pace.  At this rate, I could finish in 6 hours. At 11 miles, the course turns & there’s a sign for Crown King.  The road narrows & gets a bit rockier and less maintained. This is definitely a “jeep road.”  It wasn’t long after that we start getting passed by a few jeeps and ATVs - people out enjoying their Saturday morning in the mountains. The dust & exhaust, after being passed by these vehicles just hangs in the air.  I’m glad for my buff around my neck to breathe through when I get passed by these vehicles. 

One of the many Jeeps on the trail.  

It's a long, desolate road to Crown King.

Mile 15 is the next aid station, and the course has taken a steeper turn up hill.  No longer are the ups immediately followed by a nice downhill.  The sun is out and it’s starting to feel a bit warmer.  My pace has slowed some.  I come into the aid station, and refill my pack with ice & water.  I also get a volunteer to pour water over my arm sleeves – this feels amazing.  The cold water hangs on the sleeves and I immediately feel like a new person.  The sleeves stay cold for a couple miles once I leave the aid station.  I’m ready to take on the hills.  I’m power hiking the climbs and running whatever down hill or flats there are.  But it’s mostly power hiking, and my pace is slower than if I were running however, as soon as I start to run any of the climbs, my heart rate spikes.  So I’m relegated to power hiking the climbs & running whatever isn’t up hill!

The next aid station comes at mile 22 or so.  It’s in a low area with lots of shade.  They offer me a cup full of margheritas.  I politely decline, even though they sound delicious.  I refill my pack with ice water, wet my sleeves & grab some cookies to go.  The next aid station is another 5 miles away.  There’s more climbing, and more ATVs.  They come in packs, 4 or 6 of them at a time.  Zooming up behind you.  The trail is narrow enough that I step aside and let them pass.  They pass frighteningly close – one wrong move on their part, and I’m going headfirst off the mountainside.  Once they pass, I am left in a cloud of dust.  In my mind I try to extend them some grace – they are doing something they enjoy on a Saturday morning, I’m doing something I enjoy… But the fact is, I don’t understand it… And I’m sure they don’t understand what I’m doing – why would I run up a mountain when I could ride up it in a Jeep or ATV??  I try to put it out of my mind, but every time I hear the sound of another one coming up behind me I would just get angry.  The noise! The dust! The exhaust!! The fact that I have to step aside on the trail, when I am ready to just be done!!  I’m irritated to the point of nearly bursting in to tears.  But I just keep putting one foot in front of the other.  Climbing.  Moving.  One foot in front of the other.

Pretty soon, I come around the bend of the trail and I can see the aid station up the mountain ahead of me, and the trail stretching out behind me in the distance.  The aid station looks as it is on top of the mountain.  It’s such a tease!! I just tell myself I have to get up there, and then it must be the start of the downhill to the finish.  Was it 2 miles downhill or 3 miles downhill?? Either way, I know I’m close.  I find the spring in my step & power up the switchbacks to the aid station.  Helpful volunteers fill my pack with ice and water, wet my sleeves and send me on my way.  I take a few steps, around the bend only to realize, I wasn’t at the top…. I could see I had more climbing to go.  Ok, well there’s only one way to do it.  One foot in front of the other.  So I march on.  I see people up the trail, and they become my carrot – I reach them and pass them, offering a “good job” or “how’s it going?”   Finally, I come into a stand of pines; it smells different up here, like the forest.  It’s refreshing after coming out of the desert.  There are2 people standing up here, they tell me it’s downhill to the finish.  Only a couple miles left.  I check my watch, 2 miles to go.  Thank goodness for the downhill, I was ready to run after power hiking the climb the last few miles.  I run and my legs feel good.  I keep looking for Matt and Crown King.  I just find more Jeeps, ATVs and dust.  This may be the longest 2 miles downhill ever.

It only looks like a shadow from here, but there really is an aid station up there!

The pines, and the top of the climb!

Finally, I see Matt!! The finish must be close now.  I come into the town of Crown King, and it is a busy place.  I make the turn to the finish line & collect my finisher’s jacket & mug.  I’m glad it’s over.  Crown King is noisy and dusty.  I find a seat at a picnic table in the shade.  It does feel good to sit down.  Matt comes by and we chat about our day – his 2 plus hour drive up here, my 7 plus hour ATV filled hike.  I grab a quick bite to eat, but it’s becoming very apparent – we are over it.  The noise, the dust , the ATVs.   They’re everywhere!! I quickly change into dry clothes and we hit the road.  It’s a long, dusty, road out of Crown King, but we eventually find the pavement & the open road to head north to Sedona.  It’s time for the rest of the vacation to start!!!

Finally, getting close to the finish.

The town of Crown King.

We had a lovely time in Sedona – hiking, hanging out & enjoying every minute.  The race was an adventure (a white knuckle drive in small rental car for Matt, and an ATV infused 50k for me) and while I’m glad to check race #33 off the list, I don’t have any plans on returning to do this one again.

Thanks for following along on my adventure!!

Until next time!

Psycho-Wyco Race Report

This last weekend I traveled to Kansas City, KS, for my 3^rd running of the Psycho-Wyco Run Toto Run 50k.  This is a fun, well-organized race that provides a great training goal and opportunity for a change of scenery in the middle of a Minnesota winter.

I had been checking the weather forecast leading up to our departure on Friday before the race and it predicted dry and warm conditions.  I was excited to run in the sun and on dirt trails!!

After working part of the day on Friday, Matt and I hit the road for the 7-hour drive to Kansas City.   We arrived about 10pm that night.  It didn’t take long, and I was in bed with the alarm set for 5:30am. 

The alarm went off and I started preparing my drop bag and gear for the day.  Breakfast was coffee, a banana, and vegan chocolate shakeology.  It was a quick drive to the race start where I picked up my race number and this year’s hoodie.  The weather was chilly – high 30’s at the start.  I was in shorts and tank top with a wind jacket, knowing it wouldn’t be long before I needed to stuff my jacket in my pack.

At the start.  M. Leis photo

Soon enough it was time to start, and we were off, across an open area and up the hill onto the single track trail.  It was a little congested at first, and I tried to be patient.  After the first mile or so, runners were a little more spread out and I had some room to find my own pace.  The trail was in great shape – a couple of muddy areas in the first few miles and two shallow water crossings. Overall the driest this course has been in the 3 times I have run it.

Water crossing early in the first loop.  Mile 90 photo.

The course is a 3 - 10.3 wheel-measured loops  – my garmin came up short each time, but based on how much the trails winds and loops around, I’m not surprised garmin couldn’t keep up.  It’s a very hilly course with the back half of the loop being harder than the first half (in my opinion.)   The aid stations are close together and well stocked.  One aid station had home made cookies that were fabulous! Thank you to the volunteer that made them!! I asked for one on each loop!

The first loop went quickly and within 3 miles I had my jacket off.  It was going to be a warm day.  I made sure to drink plenty of water and sip on my hydrate electrolyte replacement drink regularly.   I finished the first loop in exactly 2 hours, right on my estimated pace.  I refilled my hydration pack with water, grabbed another bottle of hydrate, a couple bites of nutella tortilla rolls and I was off to start loop number 2.

I find the second loop of this course to be the most challenging because you know that you still have one more loop to do and there is a certain level of fatigue you start to feel as this loop drags on.  You know you have to do every hill again, and you know the temperature is going to continue to rise.  It becomes a mental game.  I was starting to get warm, but in no way was I going to complain about the heat! It was time to keep hydrated and sweat it out!  I have been dealing with some chronic calf tightness that presents itself as ankle pain.  I knew I was favoring that ankle some on the climbs because my right quad was getting extra tired.  I slowed a little on this lap and finished in 2:14.
 

Climbing up the dam with another runner.  M. Leis photo.

A nice downhill to stretch the legs.  M. Leis photo.

By the third loop, the remaining 50k runners are fairly spread out, so I ran the bulk of this loop completely solo.  I popped in one ear bud for a little music pick me up and focused on putting one foot in front of the other.  I was starting to feel the effects of the heat.  On the climbs I could literally feel my pulse in my head.  I knew I needed to be mindful of my effort and continue to eat and drink regularly.  I was starting to fade and my pace slowed a bit more, but I was still running a few of the non-technical sections, but I was ready to be done.  I saw Matt a few times on the course; he was like a ninja, hiding in the woods with his camera.  I knew if I spotted the car, he would be close by.  I saw him just before the last aid station.  It was a great pick me up before the last 2 miles and 3 big climbs to the finish.  I managed to wrap up the final loop in 2:24.  I was hoping to have finished the last loop a little quicker, but overall I’m happy with how it went.

One final time up the dam.  The runners were pretty spread out by now.  M. Leis photo.

One last crossing on the third loop.  I wasn't feeling as graceful this time around! Mile 90 photo.

One of the many climbs on the course.  M. Leis photo.

My official finish time was 6:40 – 4 min slower than last year, but that is ok.  Not every race will be a personal best time and even the same race from year to year can have drastically different conditions.  I also felt like I went into this race a little under trained for ultra trail running.  I have been doing a lot of cross training since really focusing on my personal training business the last few months.  Teaching group fitness classes, continuing to ride horses and helping clients one on one has left me with a little less time and energy to focus directly on my running.  But it’s all good – I’m so grateful to be able to do all of those things! Having the opportunity to help others lead healthier lives, and run long distances and still ride a few horses is truly a dream come true.  I’m excited to see what the rest of the year holds. 

Official finisher.  M. Leis photo.

Until next time!!

2015 Superior 100 Race Report

Wow.  What a weekend.  It’s taken me a few days to decompress and review what actually happened between Friday & Sunday & Gooseberry State Park & Lutsen Mountain. 

First and foremost I have to take a moment to thank my crew and pacers.  You guys rock.  Coming into aid stations, my crew worked like a well-oiled machine – filling my pack, refilling my snacks, and attending to my needs.  My pacers pushed me and kept me focused on the trail so I could reach goals that I didn’t even think were possible.  A big thanks go out to: My wonderful hubby, and number 1 fan, Matt Leis; John Magner who is 3 for 3 crewing/pacing for my Superior Races, I am so grateful for your support; my In-law’s, Jerry & Sandy who were eager to lend a hand at aid stations & kept me well fed post-race; my parents, John & Ellen, who drove for 2 days to be a part of this crazy adventure, and entertained all of us at the camper for dinner Thursday night; to Annemarie Arzenti, who keeps us laughing & made sure we didn’t take ourselves too seriously; and to Katie Leslie who joined me through the night during the hardest sections of the course, may the stories, laughs, and f-bombs we dropped along the way go down in history. 

Race Morning

I stayed in Two Harbors with my parents on Thursday night in their camper.  I actually slept remarkably well & woke moments before my alarm at 5:30 ready to get going.  The usual morning routine – coffee, pre-race breakfast (chocolate shakeology & a slice of toast with peanut butter,) a shower, and dressed for the race.  At 6:50am we left for Gooseberry State Park, Mom, Dad & Mr Patch, the Jack Russell. 

Pre-race coffee!

At the race start, I ran into lots of friends, and hung out with my trail buddy, Stephanie Hoff, for a little while.  Before we knew it, it was time to get lined up.  I felt ready.

Mom, Dad & Mr Patch

Pre-race pic with Stephanie Hoff

Gooseberry State Park to Split Rock Aid Station (Mile 9.7)

This year the course started out a little different due to some changes on the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT).  We now had 4+ miles of bike trail before we connected with the SHT.  My plan was to run 9:30 min/mile for the 4 miles.  I looked at this as a 4 mile warm up before the race actually started.  I wanted to stay relaxed & not go out too fast.  At 30 minutes in my watch beeped cuing me to eat – I would continue to eat every 30 minutes for the rest of the race.  I had part of a Lara Bar while I jogged along.  During this section I had an opportunity to catch up with my friend, Kamie, who I had raced much of last year’s event with.  Kamie, Stephanie & I enjoyed some light conversation. 

Pretty soon the course turned under the highway, and connected with the SHT.  It was go time.  I continued to work on staying relaxed, walking the technical sections and the climbs and just getting into the rhythm of being on the trail.  Soon enough we arrived at the Split Rock Aid Station.  The spur trail down to the aid station is a fun place to see where you’re seeded in the pack, since it is only one of 2 places that is an out and back.  There is no crew access here, so I was in and out rather quickly.  Grabbing half a peanut butter & jelly sandwich to eat on the climb back out of the aid station.  I was 10 minutes ahead of my projected pace at this time.

Quick selfie before getting down to business!

Split Rock to Beaver Bay Aid Station (Mile 20)

Beaver Bay is the first opportunity to see your crew, and I was looking forward to seeing them.  I was moving well and at about 16 miles came to this long section of standing water.  At first glance, there wasn’t a clear way to go around it, so I opted to go right through the middle. That probably wasn’t the wisest decision… It was nearly knee deep in spots & filled my shoes full of mucky, nasty water.  I don’t get grossed out by much, but this totally grossed me out.  The next four miles I spent trying to decide if I was going to change my socks when I got to the aid station.  I wasn’t planning a sock change this early in the race, but this was disgusting.  I could feel the mud in my socks & shoes, and even though they were starting to dry, the grit was not going to do me any favors over the long haul.  I made the decision that I would change socks at Beaver Bay. 

I rolled into Beaver Bay at 12:25pm, a full 30 minutes ahead of my plan.  I quickly got fresh socks on, and my pack refilled, and by 12:30 I was back on the trail.

 

20 miles in with my #1 crew member!

Beaver Bay to Silver Bay Aid Station (Mile 25)

This is a seemingly short section, I don’t recall much here except for the fact that I found myself in the middle of a pack of runners I couldn’t shake.  After spending so much time on the trail training by myself, being in a large line of runners was a little stressful.  I was hoping the approaching aid station would spread people out a bit more.  I arrived at Silver Bay at 1:40pm, 40 minutes ahead of schedule.  I felt good, and in 4 minutes I was back on the trail.

Silver Bay to Tetttegouche Aid Station (Mile 34.9)

This nearly 10-mile section can feel long, but luckily I trained on this part of the course on 2 separate occasions, so knew what to expect.  I know that this helped me manage my expectations.  This section is also quite beautiful, as you climb up to the ridge overlooking Bean & Bear Lakes, pass Mount Trudee & then navigate the uber technical downhill known as the “Drain Pipe.”  Then it’s lovely single track for a couple miles as your cruise into Tettegouche State Park.  I found myself alone for most of this section, and didn’t mind it at all.  I continued to eat every 30 minutes, and I felt good.  Strong.  Confident. 

 

Coming into Tettegouche.  Robin Wirth photo

I arrived at Tettegouche at 4:20pm, 50 minutes ahead of schedule.  I was happy to see my parents here as well as the rest of my crew.  I picked up my headlamp here, just in case I didn’t make it to the next aid station before dark (I had needed it in previous years, and being stranded without a head lamp will really slow you down!)  I was back on the trail 5 minutes later.

Mom helping me out at Tettegouche

Tettegouche to County Road 6 Aid Station (Mile 43.5)

This is another long section – 8.6 miles – and can be mentally draining.  At County Road 6, you can pick up your first pacer, so that is always a pick me up after running all day alone.  I found myself mostly alone again in this section.  I passed a few folks on the way out of the aid station, and had a guy a little way behind me, but not close enough to really talk to.  I kept moving well, and having run this section a few weeks ago in training, I knew what to expect.  I also know that you can see/hear the aid station at least a mile before you get there.   I rolled into County Road 6 at 7pm feeling strong, and ready to continue without a pacer until Finland if needed.  I was still 50 minutes ahead of schedule.

Running into County Road 6 aid station

 

Lots of laughs!! You can't take yourself too seriously!

County Road 6 to Finland Aid Station (Mile 51)

Matt paced me this section, and I was grateful for some company.  We cruised along, and chatted about our day.  I was still feeling good, and I knew I was pushing the pace a bit more than what he was planning on.  It was here that it started to get dark & my headlamp with its high-powered battery pack was working great.  This section wasn’t too technical, but it started to wear on me as we got closer to the aid station, and the battery on my headlamp started to die.  I don’t think I’d even been using it 2 hours.  I knew at Finland I’d need to switch to AAA batteries in it.  I kept thinking that the aid station was just around the corner.  The trail dragged on.  FINALLY we crossed a bridge and saw the sign pointing to the left that signaled the spur trail to the aid station.  My headlamp was nearly dead by now.

We jogged into the brightly lit aid station in the little town of Finland at 9:30pm.  55 minutes ahead of schedule.  It was a perfectly clear night, and the temperature was starting to drop.  My main order of business here was gloves.  My hands were ice cubes.

 

Katie & I ready to go into the night!

Finland to Sonju Lake Road Aid Station (Mile 58.7)

Katie was now pacing me, and we rolled out of Finland at 9:35pm after finding gloves, batteries, and sipping on some hot chicken broth.  I had the first caffeine of the night at this point.  After feeling dumpy towards the end of the last section, I knew it was time.  I was starting to ride the energy roller coaster, and as long as the peaks didn’t get too high & the valley’s too low, I was ok.  It was all about managing my energy.  I started to anticipate my 30-minute feeding alarm because I would start to feel sluggish.  I’d eat, and I’d feel better.  Just like magic.

Katie and I would spend the next 21 miles together.  This first section felt ok.  A little slow due to the rocks & roots, but we made it to the next aid station feeling pretty good.  My headlamp was starting to fade, so I knew a battery change was going to be in order.  There are no crews allowed at Sonju Aid Station so Katie & I would be in and out fairly quickly.  Some hot soup & fresh batteries and we were ready to go.

Sonju Lake Road to Crosby Manitou Aid Station (Mile 62.9)

I don’t remember much of this section – it was dark, my headlamp wasn’t great, and we were getting frustrated by the roots.  I knew it was only 4 miles to Crosby, and the road into Crosby was a great place to check out the stars and stretch the legs.  Pretty soon we made it, the stars were impressive, and we slowly jogged up the gravel road to the aid station.

We arrived at the Crosby Manitou Aid Station at 1:45AM, still nearly 50 minutes ahead of my planned schedule.  I had told my crew not to meet us here, so they could get some sleep, and I had a drop bag with food, dry clothes, and more batteries.  The aid station volunteers were great, as they retrieved my drop bag, and got me “the best - worst “ hamburger ever.  The hamburgers here taste bad, but they work miracles!!  So I always have one!  After putting in more new batteries in my headlamp, we were off.

Crosby Manitou to Sugarloaf Aid Station (Mile 72.3)

I know that this is probably THE hardest section of the course.  Katie, on the other hand, didn’t know what she was in for.  A few minutes after leaving the aid station the course drops down, down, down, to the Manitou River. Then it climbs back up, up, up to Horse Shoe Ridge.  For me, there is nothing runnable about the first half of this 9.4-mile section.  Shortly after leaving the aid station, I was having more trouble with my headlamp.  It just wasn’t bright enough.  I was getting so frustrated.  Luckily, Matt had sent a “backup” headlamp with me, so I retrieved that and wore both headlamps together.  This helped some, but was barely enough light to move efficiently. Katie and I would mumble about the rocks, and challenges of this section, it was hard.  I knew there was a runnable section towards the end, but it seemed like it took forever to get there.  Finally we crossed another river and the trail opened up.  My legs were fried, but it felt good to change from hiking to jogging – or shuffling, as the case may be.  It was still pitch black dark, and I knew we were getting close to Sugarloaf where I was looking forward to meeting my crew again and changing my shoes and socks.

We finally arrived at Sugarloaf at 5:45am, an hour and 45 minutes ahead of my original plan and a solid 45 minutes ahead of when my crew was expecting me.  They were nowhere to be found.  The aid station volunteers helped me refill my pack, and I struggled changing the batteries in my headlamps (darn headlamps!!) my fingers were cold, and I just couldn’t get them changed.  Luckily Katie’s husband had met her there, and he gave me his headlamp to use.  Katie had survived the night with me, but was done pacing.  I told her not to worry, I would continue on alone.

Sugarloaf to Cramer Road Aid Station (Mile 77.9)

I left the aid station and turned on my ipod for the first time.  I knew this section was fairly runnable, the sun would be coming up and it was only 5.6 miles to the next aid station.  I felt good, and was actually happy to continue on by myself.  Plus I knew my crew would FOR SURE be at the next aid station! As I ran alone, I could hear voices of a pair of runners behind me, but I couldn’t see them, and I hadn’t seen any runners in front of me since early in the Crosby section.  I was perfectly happy.  I knew I was moving well & the light on the horizon added a little spring in my step.  I watched how the morning light danced through the trees, and I wished I’d had a camera to capture the magic of those early morning hours, but I'd given up my phone back at Beaver Bay.

As I rolled into the next aid station, the start of the marathon distance event, I wondered what time it was “in the real world.”  The marathon would start at 8am, and no doubt I would get caught up in the mass of runners.  I tried not to worry, and looked for my crew as I came into the aid station.  As I did, a marathoner that I knew ran up to me & gave me a big hug.  That was such a highlight to my day.  Thank you Jayne!!

I arrived at 7:40 AM, a quick shoe and sock change, a couple chocolate chip pancakes and with Annemarie by my side, I was back down the trail.

Annemarie & I ready to rock & roll!

Cramer Road to Temperance Aid Station (Mile 85)

I managed to leave Cramer Road ahead of the marathoners, and enjoyed a nice runnable section of trail.  I had ran this section a few weeks back, so knew that it was pretty easy to start, one or two big climbs and then a long downhill stretch to Temperance State Park.   It didn’t take long to start to see the marathoners.  They all wished me luck & cheered for me as they passed.  I’d have to stop & step aside on the narrow trail to let them by, and we’d exchange some words.  I’d try not to trip them with my hiking poles.  Sometimes I wasn’t as organized with them as I could have been.  But we all laughed & I told the marathoners that they needed to keep up the pace so I didn’t pass them later.  It was a really fun section.  I saw a number of runners I knew and that really helped perk me up.  I rolled into Temperance at 10 am and feeling good.

BACON!!! Pancakes and bacon never tasted so good!

Temperance to Sawbill Aid Station (Mile 90.7)

At this aid station I picked up my friend, John, and he and Annemarie both paced me this section.  It was fun to have both of them to talk to and keep me moving.  After leaving the aid station you run down one side of the Temperance River, cross the bridge and then start a gradual 4-mile climb up to Carlton Peak.  I kept moving right along, and shuffling faster than a hiking pace when I could.  It wasn’t long and we came to the technical part of the climb that is the last bit up Carlton.  I kept pushing and ended up passing a few marathoners.  I looked over my shoulder to find John right behind me, but Annemarie nowhere to be seen.  One of the things I love about Annemarie, is I don’t have to worry about her.  I knew she’d catch up once she got over the climb.  I started the descent down towards the aid station and one of the marathoners came up behind me and said, “Annemarie wanted me to tell you, ‘she’s not dead’.” We all laughed and kept moving.  I knew she’d be fine!

Coming into the Sawbill aid station you run across some wooden boards before you cross a road and come into the aid station.  That section of boards was the longest section ever! I don’t think it was more than ¾ of a mile or so, but it dragged on and on.  I just wanted to get to the last aid station!! I finally rolled into Oberg at somewhere around 2pm. 

Oberg to the Finish Line (Mile 103.3)

I needed to sit down at Oberg for a few minutes.  The final push over Carlton Peak and then running the boards into the aid station had taken a bit out of me.  It was warmer than it had been, and I found myself feeling a little wonky.  Plus I had neglected to eat when my alarm went off the last time because I thought I was only a few minutes away – it ended up being more like 15 minutes.  Someone brought me the best chocolate chip pancakes ever and after a couple minutes I was ready to hit the trail again.

My awesome hubby, Matt, and John decided to pace me together the last 7.1 miles to the finish line.  By this point I was tired and definitely ready to wrap this thing up.  I told the guys that I would be putting in one ear bud.  Listening to music can really add a spring in my step and take my mind off the nagging pain that accompanies a race of this distance.  It isn’t long into this section that you climb up Moose (or is it Mystery?) Mountain – it just goes up and up, and when you think you are done, it turns and goes up some more.  I just wanted to cry.  For some reason this climb really got to me.  Keep putting one foot in front of the other, listen to the music, tune out the boys behind me, keep your eye on the prize, are just a few things I kept telling myself.  I finally made it to the top.  I knew this was the worst climb of the section. 

At one point when John & I were chatting earlier we talked about me finishing in the 33 hour range.  He had thought that was doable.  I agreed, but then after that climb, I wasn’t sure it was.  I knew my 3 mph pace had slipped, and I wasn’t confident I had it in me to get it back.  I was tired.  I was tired of eating, but my alarm kept beeping every 30 minutes, and I’d reach blindly into my pack and find something to eat.  I tried not to get emotional about it – calories are calories.  Even if I didn’t “want” what I pulled out, I ate it anyway. 
Pretty soon, my energy level was increasing, and I was within the last 5k or 3.1 miles.  I can do 3.1 miles in my sleep.  I could “smell the barn.” An incredibly upbeat song came on my ipod & I spotted a runner up the trail.  That was all I needed – a carrot – I turned to John, and said, “he’s mine.” I would pass him.  It wasn’t that I wanted to beat that person, or finish ahead of him; it was literally just a carrot to get the lead out of my ass and get me moving a little faster again.  When that song would come to the end, I’d just repeat it.  It had the same rhythm as my shuffle, and I found my groove.  It wasn’t long, and I passed that runner – the same marathoner I had been leap frogging most of the last section.  After a little bit, John reported that I just “ran” a 17 min/mile uphill in the last 5k!  Yes, I was ready to wrap it up.

It wasn’t too much longer that I passed some other runners.  We were within the last mile and a half or so. And then came the bridge over the Poplar River!! My favorite spot on the trail!! I knew I was close and from there I ran the rest of the way in.  I thought I was flying, I’m sure I wasn’t in actuality.  You turn off the trail onto a paved road through Lutsen Resort.  I kept running.  I wanted to walk, but there was no way that I came this far to walk it in to the finish line.  There was no point in leaving anything in the tank.  I kept running.  Pretty soon, Matt & John peeled off for me to run the last section around the pool of Caribou Highlands to the finish line.  And I could hear them announce, “In her second Superior 100 finish…”

 

John and I crossing the Poplar River!!

Finish line smiles!

Finish Line

I crossed the finish line to see my parents (and Mr Patch) and my crew and pacers.  I couldn’t believe it.  I did it! Another finish, and way ahead of my time goal!! My friend, Stephanie was there and she came over to give me a hug.  She asked what my time was, I said, “33 something.” I was quickly corrected by my crew that I had finished in 32 hours and 29 minutes.  A 3 hour and 45 min personal best over last year’s time!! I couldn’t have been happier!

Thank you to everyone for your support and encouragement of my adventures! Until next time, Happy Trails!!!

Voyageur 50 Mile Trail Race Report

This last weekend I ran my 4^th Voyageur 50 Mile Trail Race.  In 2012, this was my first 50 miler. Every year I keep going back because it has become one of my favorite events.  It is a no-frills event, one of the oldest ultra marathons in Minnesota, and it has maintained a down to earth, small town feel. 

The race starts at 6am on Saturday, so Matt & I made the 2+ hour drive up on Friday evening, got my packet, and set up camp at Jay Cooke State Park, which is only about 10 minutes from the start/finish area at the Carlton High School.

We camped right next to my friend, Stephanie, and her family.  We swapped stories and hung out while my amazing hubby cooked a yummy dinner over a single burner stove.  We had prepped a few things at home to make cooking faster, and before long, I had chicken, roasted sweet potatoes & asparagus ready for dinner. 

My #1 fan, crew chief, head cook, best friend, and true love :)

DINNER!

About 9:15pm we decided it was time to make preparations for bed, and set the alarm for 4:30am.  The campground was a little noisy, but I didn’t stress about it, and actually slept ok for the night before a race.

At 4:30am the campground was very quiet, and we got up and got organized for the day.  I had my liquid breakfast of Vegan Strawberry Shakeology & a cup of coffee.  At 5:15am we head to the race start.

After checking in, using the bathrooms, taking a traditional pre-race selfie, and visiting with other runners it was time get this race started.

Pre-race selfie! M. Leis photo

Excited to get going! M. Leis photo

Stephanie and I ran together for the first ¾ of mile on a paved bike trail before the course made a right turn on to some technical single track.  We had both agreed that we would run our own races this year.  Within a few minutes, Stephanie had pulled ahead, and I told myself to be patient & run intuitively.  At 3.4 miles I came to the first aid station at Jay Cooke State Park, and the course opens up into some wide, grassy, cross country ski trails.  I arrived there in 42 minutes, feeling good, and sweating a lot already.  I passed through this first aid station without stopping, I was carrying enough water to get me to the next one which was only a couple miles up the trail.

As I left the first aid station, I fell in line with a guy named, Terry.  We would end up running much of the first half together.  We chatted and enjoyed having the company to pass the miles.  The second & third aid stations arrived quickly.  I was definitely sweating, and trying to make sure that I was eating and drinking enough.  I popped salt tablets every hour or so along with eating potato chips and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches at the aid stations.  I was still feeling pretty good. 

Hanging out with my new friend! M. Leis photo

The powerlines are really what Voyageur is known for – you run through this section of power lines that are exposed and incredibly hilly – probably 200-300 feet straight up & then straight back down.  If they are dry, it’s tough but doable.  When they are wet, it is like a giant slip and slide.  On the outbound direction, they were wet this year.  On the first one going up you would step and then slide back, and grab onto whatever vegetation you could find – some of those bushes were thorn bushes, so I brought home some scrapes and scratches, too.  But I finally made it through the section without any falls and still feeling ok.

The rest of the outbound course is pretty runnable – some technical down hill switch backs, a creek crossing or two (enough to soak your shoes enough that they never really dry) and a nice downhill gravel section to the turn around at the zoo.

As I was approaching the turn around at the Duluth Zoo, I would count the women in front of me.  I like to know about where I stand in the pack, and I was looking for Steph to see how far ahead she was.  She is so strong on courses like this, I was confident she’d be in the top 10.  When I saw Steph coming up the trail, she was 7^th or 8^th woman and maybe 20 minutes in front of me, looking good.  I was sitting in 10^th or 11^th place.

I refilled my pack at the turnaround and quickly headed back up the trail.  It is a long up hill grind.  I ran-walked up the gravel trail & passed a couple women along the way.  This felt good, and I knew I had cracked the top 10.  I was feeling confident.

Leaving the turn around aid station at the Zoo. M. Leis photo

Confidence in an ultra event can be short lived.  A short while later I was starting to crack – and needing to find that special place inside my head where I can grind out the miles and continue to move forward.  I had started to experience some chaffing on the inside of my left thigh.  At one of the aid stations I asked for vasaline, but it didn’t help.  I noticed a hot spot on the bottom of each foot.  I worked on keeping my feet dry through the creek crossings on the way back, but all I really wanted was a fresh pair of socks. 

 

Coming into the Beck's Road Aid Station 31 miles. M. Leis photo

I saw Matt at an aid station at 31 miles, along with his friend, Jason.  That definitely made me feel better.  I got a 5 hour energy drink from him that I put in my pocket for later.  I knew I’d need a caffeine kick before the power lines a second time.  More uphill hiking.  My thighs were on fire. My feet were hurting.  And soon enough I was back in the power lines.  This time they were dry, but it was so hot. When you’d crest the top, I’d feel a breeze and that would offer a slight reprieve.  Onward.

As I came into the next aid station, I got some ice for my hat, potato chips & filled my pack with ice and water.  Keep moving forward.  Then I saw another woman just ahead of me, I passed her and offered a word or two of encouragement.  I knew I was in the top 10 now.  I had to keep moving and not get passed back.  Shortly after that I saw another woman ahead of me.  She was pretty far up the trail and moving well.  I told myself to be patient, and stay strong, and not worry too much about it.  My competitiveness got the better of me, and I was pushing hard.  Too hard for having 10 miles left to go.

I ended up catching and passing her and she told me I was now in 9^th place.  I thanked her for the information & told her she was moving well.  I was thrilled.  I knew I wouldn’t run a personal best time, but to finish in the top 10, that would be awesome.

A lot can happen in the last 10 miles of a race…. Remember that chaffing I mentioned, I kept pulling my shorts down to cover it, but it wasn’t helping.  My feet felt like the bottoms of were disintegrating.  I was having a much harder time keeping my body from over heating.

I came into the 2^nd to last aid station, 5+ miles from the finish needing water and ice.  As I arrived, and as the aid station volunteer was filling my pack, the woman I had recently passed, blew through aid station and was out in front of me.  I didn’t have my pack on to even try to chase her down.  I sighed and told myself that 10^th was ok, too.  I knew I couldn’t catch her. 

I left the aid station not feeling great.  I knew the next section was pretty runnable, and to try to run what I could without over heating.  I passed a few guys along the way, and offered words of encouragement.  I had been running alone since 20 miles or so.  I was getting tired of the conversations in my head.  I was really wanting to be done.

Leaving the 2nd to last aid station. M. Leis photo

At the last aid station, Matt & Jason were there, and a volunteer asked me what I wanted – “Ice & chips,” I responded.  Ice in my hat, and a handful of chips to go, I was on my way.  I wanted to be done and the only way that was going to happen was if I kept moving.

 

On the Swinging Bridge headed towards the finish line. M. Leis photo

I crossed the swinging bridge and onto the technical trail.  I was struggling.  I was walking, and not power walking, just walking.  A few guys passed me, and then 2 women passed me… So much for that top 10 finish again this year.  I was starting to see things – rocks that didn’t look like rocks, trees that didn't look like trees, and feeling very much like I did at Superior 2013.  I just kept telling myself to keep moving, and the faster I move the sooner I'd be done. I was no longer having any fun.

My thoughts moved to my friend, Toni, who is fighting cancer.  I hadn’t had the opportunity to visit with her before I left for the weekend, and I wanted to dedicate this race to her.  I knew that her battle is so much harder than any chaffing, blisters or heat rash I was going to experience.  I thought about her a lot those last 3 miles.  I prayed for her and for her family.  I knew the last .7 mile was on a hot paved trail leading back to Carlton and the finish line at the high school.  I prayed for a breeze.

I finally got to the paved trail.  I told myself that I had to run.  Just get this over and done with.  I was running and all of a sudden I felt it – a cool breeze.  I looked up to the sky and said “thank you!” It was a magical moment.

Soon, I turned the corner and had the school in sight.  I didn’t have a finish line kick, but I jogged it in and received my finisher’s mug.  I finished in 11 hours and 25 minutes.

Almost there!

I had nothing left to give. 

Matt, Jason & Stephanie were all waiting for me at the finish.  I am so blessed to have such a supportive husband & amazing friends that support these crazy adventures.  And I can't wait to go back next year for #5!!

4 years of Voyageur :)

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog!!

Until next time!!

Eau Claire Marathon

“Everything you ever wanted to know about yourself you can learn in 26.2 miles,” as quoted by Lori Culnane.  I learned a few lessons today.  I’ll share those with you as we go along, but let’s start by saying today’s marathon did not go as I had hoped.

The Eau Claire Marathon is held in Eau Claire, WI, which is exactly 120 miles from my house.  When I registered, I didn’t give the location, race course or logistics much thought.  The timing fit my schedule, and it seemed like a nice low-key event.  I don’t care for big city marathons, the crowds, and lines give me the heeby-geebies, so this seemed like a nice road marathon to attempt a Boston qualifying time at.

As the week lead up to race day, I realized that logistically, it being 2 hours away, and a 7:30am start time wasn’t ideal.  Do I get up early, drive to the start or pay for a hotel nearby?  After a few nights of discussing our options, Matt & I decided that I’d just drive over race morning, and meet up with my friends, Steph & Joy.  The last few weeks I’ve been getting up at 4am anyway, so that shouldn’t be an issue. 

Race morning comes, and the alarm goes off, I hit snooze – maybe this should have been my first warning.  I NEVER hit snooze on a race morning.  I’m usually cranked to get up and get moving.  So when I do get up I’m about 15 min behind “schedule.”  Not a huge deal because I had worked in some additional time, just in case.  I brewed some coffee, got dressed, said good bye to Matt, grabbed my race breakfast and hit the road.

Pre-race selfie!

4:30am on a Sunday morning, there is NO traffic.  Awesome! Smooth sailing!  I got across town and into WI in record time.  One pit stop on the way, and I was there, finding a nice parking spot right on schedule.

Steph had warned me that the park start/finish area sat on top of a hill.  I grabbed a few things out of the car, and headed up.  It was about a 10 min walk… mostly up hill, to the start/finish area.  I easily found Steph & Joy & we picked up our race packets.  A quick stop at the porto-potty, which there were a ton of, luckily, and we headed to the start to line up.

Steph & I lined up together & soon we were on our way.  Music in my ears, plan set, mantras ready, I started the first mile.  There were some crowds & I was slightly behind the 3:45 pace group.  I checked my watch, and I was dead on 8:20.  That pace group went out too fast… Mile 2, still behind the 3:45 group, 8:10.  I backed it down a little.  The first 10k, was right on 8:20 pace average.  I was thrilled.  I was breathing a little hard, but if I turned up my music, I couldn’t hear myself panting, so therefore, I was fine, right??  The 3:45 group was behind me, and all was good.

Or was it… my pace started to falter with some hills, ok, no big deal, I’m fine, I told myself.  I started working on my mantras.  “Stay relaxed,” “keep your cadence high,” “pop!pop!pop!” as I marched up the hills.  But by mile 9, and this enormous hill that ended near the airport, I was spent.  I was over a 9min/per mile pace… “I didn’t come this far not to work,” I told myself, I tried to pick it up, another mile, 9:30.  Finally, I came to the conclusion I’d just do what I could.  Keep it under 4 hours? That seemed like a reasonable goal.

I hit the ½ marathon at 1:54.  Ok, that works, I told myself, just maintain this pace & you’ll break 4 hours.  It was getting hot.  I really was struggling.  I had no energy.  We turned into the wind, which on one hand was nice, as it kept you cooler, but on the other hand, it felt like it was literally sucking the life right out of me.  I contemplated sitting down in the shade, but kept pushing on.  I was carrying a hand held bottle, which I’m really grateful for, as I could drink between aid stations.  I refilled my bottle a total of 4 additional times.  I made sure I popped some salt tabs, and had a gel every hour or so (It ended up being miles 8, 14, 18, 22 for gels.)

I watched the 3:45 pace group move on by.  They were on track now.  Then shortly the 4:00 pace grouped moved past me.  I tried not to let that get to me.  I had pulled ahead of Steph, who was battling a cold, around mile 2 or 3.  She passed me too, definitely fighting the heat, about mile 16 or 17.  I tried to keep her in my sights, but that was a lost cause.  I kept moving, running, or walking when I was light headed and nauseous.  I was drinking well, but the heat was beating down on all the runners.  You could see it take it’s toll on many people today.  I just wanted to finish, standing up and breathing, at this point. 

At this point too, I changed my mindset.  It was no longer about meeting my goal of a Boston qualifying time, it was simply about finishing, and being grateful for this opportunity to run.  To be able to run, injury free, in a safe place, with gas in my car to drive me home, and food waiting for me at the finish.  I love running, and that’s what I was doing! This helped me get through a few more miles.

Mile 22 meltdown...

My lowest point was mile 22, it still felt like I had so far to go.  I texted Matt, and was on the verge of tears.  I talked myself out of crying, just wasted energy anyway, and I knew that the low point would pass.  Experience teaches you that if you wait it out, it will get better.  And it did.  Around mile 23, we came into the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire campus, and all the students were out.  There was so much energy, and it really helped pull me out of my slump.  Then it was only a 5k to go anyway.

I ran to the base of the hill at the park, and was starting to overheat after running the last couple miles without walking (not fast, mind you, but faster than walking!)  I walked/jogged up the final hill & into the finish area.  I was SO grateful to be done!   I found Steph, Joy & some additional friends that had ran the ½ marathon distance.  The heat blew us all up. I was in good company!

Finish line with Steph.

My official finish time was 4:16.  Not a personal best or a personal worst either, just another run on a hot day on a fairly hilly, and windy course.

Race Swag

Today’s marathon reminded me to respect the early season heat, wear sunscreen & use more body glide than you think you need.  :)

I don’t know if I’ll run another road marathon this year.  I may just stick to the trails for summer; my next events on the calendar include a 50k on July 4, a 50 miler the last weekend of July, and then the Superior 100 in September.  I have plenty to work towards, so we’ll see if it makes sense to do one once I’m recovered.

Thanks for taking the time to read my race ramblings.

Remember to:
*Be grateful.

*Respect the heat.

*Wear sunscreen.

*Use more body glide than you think you need.

*Thank your race volunteers.

Psycho-Wyco 50k 2015

Psycho-Wyco was my first trail and ultra-distance race of 2015.  I wasn’t sure what to expect regarding my performance.  Mostly, I was looking to enjoy myself, and I prayed for warmer temperatures and no ice.  I ran solid mileage in January, but only one 20 miler, which I did on snow covered trails at my local park.  I had been doing regular workouts with weights along with my running, but my nutrition the last couple weeks leading to race day had suffered.  I had no idea how the day would play out.

Kansas City is about a 7 hour drive from where I live.  I worked a few hours on Friday morning, and then we hit the road about noon.  I had packed a small cooler with some snacks, but nothing substantial.    It wasn’t quite dinner time when we cruised through Des Moines, Iowa, and we weren’t really hungry anyway.  It was still another couple hours to Kansas City.  I had hoped that we’d find something decent along the way.  As the sun went down and we started to get hungry, the towns got farther apart, and the food options got slimmer. I had been doing all the driving and I was ready for a break, I found an exit that looked promising… The signage at the exit pointed to a gas station, and a couple restaurants 2 miles off the interstate.  So we headed in that direction, the signs were somewhat misleading… There was a Pizza Hut, a local pizza place & the smallest Hy-Vee grocery store I’ve ever seen.  We opted to check out the grocery store.  We left with wraps, deli turkey, and some baby carrots.  This would have to do.  Matt took over driving, and I started putting our “dinner” together.  We made it into Kansas City about 9pm.  We were staying with some of Matt’s family, and we were welcomed into their home with hugs and the smell of something wonderful in the oven. 

We spent some time getting settled in and catching up and found that the wonderful smell from the oven was coming from stuffed jalapeños baking.  So at nearly 10pm on the night before my race I enjoyed stuffed jalapenos and a slice of chocolate cake.  Maybe not ideal, but certainly delicious! I hoped those jalapeños wouldn’t come back to haunt me!  It was nearly 11:30 before we hit the sack.  Morning would come early.

Morning did come early, but there always seems to be enough pre-race adrenaline to offset the lack of sleep.  Matt and I had our breakfast and headed off to the race.

I mingled with a few friends from Minnesota before the start, and it wasn’t long before we were off.

I found myself in a pack of runners early on, but it only took a mile or so before everyone started to get spread out.  After about 5 miles, I found myself running completely alone.  The course is a 3-loop course of just over 10 miles.  The first half is easier than the back half in my mind.  On the first loop the trail was frozen, but there was no snow, and it was really uneven. You had to be extra careful to watch your footing because there were so many frozen foot prints, and rolling an ankle became a very real hazard.  Add to that lots of leaves and rocks on the trail, and it made for some tricky places.  But this is why I love trail running. You just have to take what the trail gives you.  I found the most runnable sections were those areas on long up hills.  Now most ultra runners hike or walk the hills, I do too, on most days.  But because some of the areas that I’d have normally run, I needed to walk so I didn’t roll an ankle, I found that even if it was a hill and the footing was good, I ran it. 

Hiking up Dam Hill, this was a significant climb to an aid station.  Photo curtesy Matt Leis

I finished the first loop in just over 2 hours, and I was pleased with that.  After a quick stop at the aid station, I started the second loop.  This was a whole new game.  The sun and earlier runners (there are 3 races, 10 mile, 20 mile & 50k on the same loop) had warmed up the trail, so now it was a mucky, slippery mess… The places that were frozen before were like grease.  So now I walked some of these same areas so I didn’t end up on my butt! Even on some of the hills that I had ran in the first loop, I was back to walking because it was so slippery.  I was starting to get frustrated, and my hips were starting to hurt from all the uneven terrain. 

The hills were starting to get to me on the second loop, but I just kept smiling! Photo curtesy Matt Leis

Every mile I watched my pace drop.  I didn't let it bother me, and just enjoyed the day for what it was.  I was running dirt trails, my body basically felt good, the sun was out, my wonderful hubby was out on the course taking pictures, life couldn’t be better!  I just kept reminding myself of all those blessings when I was slipping and sliding around.  Soon enough, lap 2 was done, and I was starting the third loop.

On the bridge to start the final loop.  Photo curtesy Matt Leis

There is something about the third loop that makes it special.  First of all, the trail had dried up a ton in the 2 plus hours I’d been making my way around it.  There was a little greasy mud in the first couple of miles, but then it was really nice.  I found myself running more, and running more of the hills.  Secondly, it’s the last loop.  You know you don’t have to climb those hills again; you won’t pass through that aid station again.  You’re like a horse headed for the barn.  Or at least I was.  I felt great.  With the better trail conditions, I could run, and running felt awesome.

 

Making my way down one of the many hills. Photo curtesy Mile 90 Photography

Headed for the finish line.  Photo curtesy Matt Leis

I ran it in as hard as I could.  I felt good.  I could hear the finish line before I saw it, and the music was pumping.  Finishing a race, whether it’s your first or your 100^th is something special.  That feeling never gets old.  I even did a little dance at the finish line.  Trail running is so much fun!! Being in nature, pushing yourself, and the thrill of a race simply makes me smile; I couldn’t hold it in any longer.

Finish line!! Photo curtesy Mile 90 Photography

I am so blessed to be able to do what I love.  To have been able to take a short get away, enjoy a weekend with family, and run trails in the sunshine is a recipe for happiness.  I hope that you can find something that you enjoy, that makes you smile, and enjoy it as much as possible.

Finish line dance :)  Photo curtesy Mile 90 Photography

Superior 100 2014 - Redemption

It’s a little hard for me to write this race report, for the simple fact that by doing so, means it’s over.  It’s that strange sensation that you have after major life events when you feel changed on the inside, but the rest of the world is moving along as if nothing out of the ordinary ever happened.  It’s a little surreal. 

As most of you already know, I had attempted the Superior 100 in 2013, and had to drop at mile 85.  It wasn’t long after that I knew I needed to return this year and take care of some “unfinished business.”  Coming into the race this year, I felt stronger and more confident than I had in 2013.  My 2013 DNF (stands for “did not finish”) actually taught me a lot of really good lessons.  Many of which I hoped would keep me moving better this year.

Soon enough it was race week and I was excited to head north.  I had an awesome team of people that were going to be a part of my journey.  First, was my wonderful husband, Matt, who had seen last year’s DNF first hand.  Then there was my mother in law, my parents, my dear friend from Michigan, AnneMarie, my friend Tracy, who’s husband was running the marathon, and my two best running pals Colleen & Steph.  I was surrounded by love, friendship, and the best support a girl could ask for to get to the finish line.

On Thursday we hung out in Duluth and then had dinner at my parents camper in Two Harbors before the race meeting.  After the meeting Annemarie and I spent the night at the camper with my parents and everyone else headed up to the house in Lutsen.  Lucky for me I had earplugs – because sleeping on an air mattress listening to the sound of multiple people snoring was not allowing for the most restful night’s sleep…I tried not to stress about it, and just rest as best as I could.

Dinner at the Sierra Base Camp

Race morning arrived and we got up and moving.  I had some coffee, scrambled eggs, a banana and a muffin before heading to the start.   It was cool, sunny and dry.  Perfect conditions.  There was a lot of excitement surrounding the visitor’s center at Gooseberry Falls State Park.  And after a few pictures and some nervous chatter, it was time to get lined up to start.

 

Pre-race pic with my parents and Patch

And we're off!

I lined up near the back with my friends Kamie and Joli.  After a couple of announcements we were on our way.  As the runners got more spread out, I was leading a small train of runners – me, Joli, Kamie, and one or two others.  I hadn’t seen Joli in a year, and we had plenty to catch up on.  Kamie said we were going to eat every 30 min.  That sounded good to me, and every 30 min, we’d all have a snack.  We’d remind each other to drink, and the camaraderie was lovely. Those first 9-10 miles passed easily and we came into Split Rock aid station.  I grabbed ½ a pb&j sandwich, refilled my water and electrolyte drink and headed out.  Kamie was right behind me.  We were right on schedule.  It was 10:35am.   Kamie and I would be together for over 50 miles of the race, and there is no doubt in my mind that was a key to my success.

Kamie and I continued to work together, her reminding me to eat, and turn my toes forward (when I duck walk, my knees hurt…I had no idea, just that tip alone saved me a lot of pain!) and me keeping the pace conversational, and relaxed.   The day was perfect and we kept checking off the aid stations. 

The first place you can see your crew is at 20 miles at Beaver Bay.  We were a little ahead of schedule, it was 1:20pm.  It was great to see most everyone there, it’s hard not to get sucked into a lot of chatter at the aid stations, so I told my crew to “get me in and get me out.”  They did a great job.  Most of the time I could keep it to about 5 minutes.  Refill my pack, grab some food, pb&j or broth and get going.

Coming into Beaver Bay

It was great having Kamie for the first half – we knew that we’d each run our own race, but we figured we were closely enough matched that if we could get to County Rd 6 – or 43 miles to pick up our pacers together, that we’d be in good shape.

My goal was to get to County Road 6/43.5 miles before dark – the section leading up to that is long and challenging.  That coupled with the sun going down and being eager to reach the pacers, it can be a mental game.  This is where our pace started to slow some, even though I was motivated to get there before it was totally dark.  I finally had to break down and put on the headlamp.  Shoot. But eventually we made it to the paved road, and jogged down to the bright lights and excitement of the aid station.  We arrived there at 8:45pm, about 30 min behind my anticipated schedule.

One thing I really found interesting is how during this event I lost my sense of time.  Kamie and I were chatting at one point when we realized we’d been out there for over 11 hours… Didn’t feel like that at all.  I became more motivated by the rise and fall of the sun – Friday – get in as many miles before dark.  Then Friday night, get in as many miles in the dark as possible, because that will get you closer to the finish line.  Saturday, get as many miles done in the daylight, so you don’t have to put that darn headlamp on again!!!

At 43 miles, I picked up my first pacer, Colleen, and we headed off into the night.  She was excited to be pacing and there was a lot of fun chatter.  Pretty soon Kamie and her pacer were right behind us.  Having 2 new people to talk to was great.  I continued to lead the train and set the pace.  We were having a blast. 

The four of us rolled into Finland – 51 miles at 11:20pm, I was about an hour behind my “plan.”  I was starting to get some hot spots on my heals – so changed socks and added some tape to the heals to prevent more blisters.  This was my first long aid station – I think it was just over 10 minutes.  Colleen and I headed out and before too long Kamie and Sue were right behind us again.  Another 4 + miles and we were into Sonju Lake Road.  No crews here so we checked out the buffet of food and refilled our packs.  I was going to have some more pb&j, but a guy dry heaving right behind me into the bushes, turned my stomach… Let’s get out of here!

Off into the darkness the 4 of us went.  This was probably where I started to really notice some other runners not doing so well.  We offered salt tabs, and reminded them to keep eating.  We were still eating every 30 min – whether we liked it or not!! And there were times that I did NOT want to eat.  But we were moving right along.  Our pace continued to slow some – the trail can be really technical in places, plus it was dark, my headlamp sucked, and I was starting to get tired.  I still wanted to hold off on caffeine as long as possible.  It was during this section that Kamie & Sue pulled ahead.  I wouldn’t see Kamie again until the finish, but my crew kept close tabs on her & let me know she was moving well.

After another 4+ miles, we came into the Crosby Manitou aid station.  I was ahead of my time from last year at this point, but still falling behind my plan for this year.  It was 4am Saturday.  My crew was getting nervous.  I was still feeling better than I had a year ago, so I wasn’t too worried.  I love this aid station.  They have the “best worst” hamburgers ever.  It was the wee hours of the morning and I inhaled ½ a cheeseburger.  It was gross and delicious all at the same time.  I also changed pacers here, and Steph and I would share the next 27 miles together.

We moved out of the aid station and deep into the Manitou river gorge.  Down, down, down to the river, up, up, up to horseshoe ridge.  The stars were amazing!!! This is a long section –nearly 10 miles, but the sun started to come up and the end of it is pretty runnable.  So enough power hiking and on to some jogging… I called it “shuffle shuffle” – hardly a run.  Just using different muscles.  I wanted out of this section badly.  My feet were hurting like mad.  I was fighting the good fight, but it was definitely getting harder.

Morning Sunrise on the trail

Finally out of the woods to Sugarloaf aid station.  Matt, Sandy and Annemarie were there.  They were fresh after getting a good night’s sleep.  I needed to change shoes and address what was happening to my feet.  They pointed me towards a chair and covered me in a blanket.  I wasn’t cold, why would I need a blanket, I wondered.  And within a minute, I was shivering.  The wind was breezy, but it was another beautiful morning.  Matt took off my shoes and socks and we determined I had one large blister on my left heal and a small one on my right foot.  The right foot we’d leave be, but the one on the left was getting big.  I drank some soup and tried to eat while they worked on my feet.  Matt poured cold water on them, even though I was shaking the cold water felt awesome.  Annemarie handed me some alieve, and I washed that down with a V8.  After about 20 minutes, I was up and headed towards Cramer Road. 

 

Steph getting me moving after shoe change at Sugarloaf

My feet were KILLING me when I got out of that chair.  But I knew I needed to just put it out of my mind.  Steph pushed me along, and continued to remind me to eat and drink every 30 minutes.  Pretty soon the alieve kicked in and I felt great.  This was a short section and we cruised, even making up some time.

We arrived at Cramer Road feeling good.  It was 10:30am and I was still an hour behind my planned schedule.  I was excited that I was moving well again.  I passed on the eggs this year, (I was superstitious that the eggs I ate here last year were my demise… I know they weren’t but I couldn’t take that chance) filled up my pack and we were off again.  It was on to Temperance.  I had some demons to slay here.

Steph mentioned this was runnable so I put on some music and cruised – until the mud and the rocks and the climbing slowed us down.  Just get to the boards by the river she said – then you can run… It wasn’t quite that simple, but we got it done… There was more climbing than either of us remembered and the miles weren’t clicking by quite as quickly either.  I was motivated to get to Temperance and get out of this section; it just felt like it took forever.   Finally we were there.

We arrived at Temperance at 1:05pm.  Within 10 minutes I was headed back out.  The early miles out of Temperance are nice – runnable trail, you see some tourists, you realize there is life outside of the Superior Hiking Trail… but then you climb, and climb, and climb up to Carlton Peak.  This was the physical barrier I was worried about last year – Temperance was the emotional barrier I was worried about this year.  I was through Temperance, now I just needed to conquer Carlton Peak at nearly 88 miles on my legs… I get to the top and boom, the tears, the first and only tears of the race.  I had made it…. There was no stopping me now.  2 more aid stations and a half marathon to go.

At 3:15pm we pulled into Sawbill aid station.  I was back on my pre-planned schedule.  I was feeling good.  I was over 2 hours a head of the cut off time.  My parents were here, along with my crew.  It was refreshing to see everyone, and I get to change pacers.  Annemarie was joining me for the last 12 miles. 

Annemarie and I headed out of Sawbill and on to the mucky trail.  This section was so bad after the 100, 50 & marathoners had gone through here.  But we moved right along trying not to get our shoes sucked off in the mud. 

We arrived at the Oberg aid station at 5:25pm.  Plenty of time ahead of the cut off and maybe even enough time to get done before dark.  Maybe?  I was in and out of there in 2 minutes.  I didn’t have much left to do.  Make sure I have just enough calories to get there without bonking… I hadn’t really bonked yet – eating every 30 min was like magic!  Annemarie and I headed out.  I tried to keep power hiking to stay one step ahead of the sunset.  This section was a bit of a mental game, too, you are so close, but yet, still far enough out that it takes a couple of hours.  I wanted to get done before dark.  The sun was starting to set and I probably should have put on my headlamp, but we finally made it out on to the gravel road just before the river.  And once we were out of the woods, the moon was amazing.  We stopped on the bridge over the poplar river for a split second to take it all in and snap a couple pictures. 

Moon over the Poplar River.  I made it!

I ran up the hill to the paved road.  Then up the paved road and there was Steph, Colleen and Matt waiting for me.  I ran even faster, across the road back into the grass and around Caribou Highlands.  Just as I came up to the building I heard a deep voice from above, “Kate is that you?” I responded, “I think so!” For a split second I wondered if it was God, then I realized there were people standing on the balconies above me… I giggled and ran it on in to the finish line.  Kamie was standing there waiting for me, looking as fresh as a daisy.  She gave me a huge hug & my family escorted me to a chair along the side.  And just like that it was all said and done.

Post-race

Superior 2013

Writing this blog post is turning out to be more challenging that I would have initially thought.  It should be simple, embark on an epic adventure, finish, celebrate, share your story with others. Done.  This time however, it wasn't that simple... But that's ok, because that's how we learn, and grow.

This last weekend, I lined up with nearly 200 other runners at Gooseberry State Park to follow the Superior Hiking Trail 103 miles to the finish line at Lutsen Mountain.  We had 38 hours to get there.

By my side was my trail buddy, Steph, and we had agreed we'd run what we could together, but knowing that it was likely that we'd end up getting split up before the day(s) was over.  The morning air was warm, but I had goosebumps from my nerves.  After a few words from the race director, we were off.

In the beginning there were these single file packs of runners.  A train of people stretching down the trail, but as the miles wore on, it didn't take long for people to find their own pace & get more spread out.  Pretty soon you were with a group of maybe 3 or 4 people without being able to see anyone ahead or behind you.

It didn't take long before I noticed a steady drip of sweat off the right corner of my baseball hat.  One drop at a time, but at a regular rate of drip...drip...drip... My bandana that I carry with me was getting very wet from wiping my face & soon felt completely saturated.  I worked hard to keep drinking & eating & to remember to take a salt tab now & again.

Steph & I arrived into the first aid station, right on schedule.  I had put together a schedule for myself & my crew of what time I had "hoped" to arrive at each aid station & what the cut off times were for each one as well.  Staying one step ahead of the clean up crew was my goal.  I wanted to finish, but I wasn't out to set a land speed record!

At 20 miles, the next aid station, we got to see our crew.  That was exciting.  I was really hot, and I had ran out of water in the previous section.  I added a bottle of Heed (electrolyte replacement drink) to my pack along with 2 liters of water & a variety of bars, gels, & snacks.

As the days have passed since the race, some of the more finite details have faded.  But it was going into the County Road 6 aid station (about 43 miles) as one area that sticks out in my mind.  Steph was running strong & in the miles leading up to this aid station, we had gotten separated.  I was a little bummed, I'll admit it, but I totally understood.  When you need to fly, you fly! I would only see her 1 more time before the finish line.  My crew would update me along the way as to how she was doing.  The other thing that happened here, was it got dark.  In many ways, I think we, as runners were looking forward to it getting dark.  After sweltering through the day in the hot sun, we had all hoped nightfall would bring some relief.  I stopped for a brief moment to dig my headlamp out of my pack & turned it on.  It took a little while to get used to running in a small beam of light, but there I was alone on the trail with my light & having really no idea how much farther to the next aid station.  Soon I saw a sign that said 4 miles... 4 miles?!! Are you kidding?! I was sure I'd done at least that much.  Boo.  Ok, well, keep going I told myself.  Pretty soon another runner came up behind me & we ran together for those last 4 miles.  Another big bummer here, was you were up high on the ridgeline & all of a sudden you could see & hear the aid station below you.  So you knew, you just had to get down to it... It took another 45 minutes to get to that aid station!! Every descent I thought would take us there.  I was nearly on the verge of tears when I finally popped out of the woods to be greeted by my pacers, Colleen & Katie.

I refilled at the aid station here & Katie and I headed into the woods.  The runner I had met in the previous section was still with us & we had picked up another guy.  The four of us swapped stories & shared some laughs along the way.  It was so much fun!!! Such a change from the dark place I had been in earlier.

Before we knew it, we arrived at the Finland aid station.  51 miles.  HALF WAY!!! This was awesome.  Half way.  I changed my shoes & socks & Matt cleaned up my feet (he's a keeper!!) Then Dale & I headed off down the trail.  Dale was going to run with me for 3 sections & about 21 miles.  It started out well enough, but then my body wanted to shut down.  It was sometime after midnight.  Maybe 1am.. I'm really not sure.  We had 7+ miles to go to Sonjou Road aid station, where we would not have a crew.  I was spiraling into a hole.  Dale told me stories & encouraged me to eat & drink.  I was walking & but not really going anywhere.  We finally arrived into Sonjou Road & I wanted something salty.  So I sat in a chair by a fire for a few minutes & sipped on some broth.  This didn't taste nearly as good as I had hoped... I was getting shaky, but knew I wasn't getting anywhere sitting there.  So I picked myself up & moved on.  Dale picked up a baggie of potato chips for me & half a banana.  Off we went.  I felt awful.  I was barely moving.  Dale "forced" a couple potato chips into my hand & I would eat them one tiny bite at a time.  All I wanted to do was curl up in the fetal position & go to sleep.  But luckily for me, Dale wouldn't let me.  He kept pressuring me to eat the chips & drink water.  And believe it or not, I actually started to feel better.  Who knew the magic of potato chips?? Seriously! It was getting on to 5am by now & I could tell that it was getting lighter - maybe only by degrees of light, but morning was coming.  Soon we hit the road into Crosby Manitou State Park.  Matt & John were there & they helped me jog in.

At Crosby, there was a lot of activity.  I sat in a chair & somebody brought me a hamburger.  I'm not going to lie, that hamburger patty was pretty gross.  But I ate it anyway, and it too had some magical properties.  I picked up my trekking poles at this point, because I no longer could trust my legs.  And Dale and I were off for our final 9 miles together.

I had heard rumors of this section being very tough.  They were true.  A few minutes after leaving the aid station, I got stung by a bee.  It hurt like mad! But Dale took my bandana and dunked it a river & we tied the cold cloth to my arm.  That felt sooo much better.  The climbs & descents here were crazy.  I was actually really grateful the sun was coming up & I was reaching this in the daylight.  Speaking of the sun coming up.  That also proved to be magical.  As day broke over the woods, the song "Morning has Broken" came into my head.  I hummed the few words I could remember over and over as we made our way through the forest.  I was feeling good & we were almost done with this section.

We came into the next aid station & I was greeted by my crew.  Always a refreshing site.  I drank some perpetuem (protein, carb, caffeine mix), changed my socks & Katie & I were on our way.  I felt good.  I was picturing the finish line.  I had this in the bag.  Or so I thought.  We kept on cruising & the miles seemed to fly by.

Soon enough, we came into the next aid station & I was finally going to run with Colleen.  I think we were both pretty excited.  I said thank you and good bye to Katie, and Colleen & I were off.  Things started out ok here.  We chatted some, and she pulled me along down the trail.  But sooner than either of us would have liked, I started to spiral downhill.  I wasn't able to eat, nothing sounded good.  Nothing I had or Colleen had was appetizing.  She encouraged me to drink my Heed.  That tasted awful, too.  I wanted to puke.  I thought I was going to.  I was barely moving.  This went on for a long time.  One step at a time, Colleen encouraging me to eat or drink, anything.  Me barely able to get anything down.  Hardly moving.  Finally at one point I asked if I could sit down.  I sat in the middle of the trail & couldn't stop yawning.  I was done.  Colleen put her hand on my shoulder & said a prayer for me.  Something I will never, ever, forget.  With some encouragement & the truth that my day was over, I got up.  I still had to get off the trail.  No one was going to come in & carry me out.  I had 4 miles to go to the next aid station.  I don't have any idea how long it took me to finish those four miles.  Colleen had her phone and called Matt to come in and walk out with me.  By this point I was starting to see things (ok, truth is I was seeing stuff way before this too...) and the 3 of us were able to giggle about it now and again.  The sweepers (people who were volunteering to take the course down after the last runner) were following us.  I was it.  The last person on the course at this point.  I remember being able to crack a joke or two, and Colleen and Matt still trying to get me to eat or drink anything.  But I was barely moving.  But one foot in front of the other finally will lead you to where you need to go.

And after a total of 32 hours and 39 minutes of continuous forward progress, I found my finish line at 85 miles.  I sat in a camp chair by the car, and with that, the tears came.  There was no stopping them.  9 months of training, endless support from my wonderful husband, the encouragement from my friends, and the fact that I didn't make my goal all came flooding down around me.  

I don't know if I'll ever be able to express the love that I felt out there from my crew, pacers, and other runners - Joli & Scott, especially. 

After taking a shower & grabbing a bite to eat, we all went back to watch my friend, Steph, finish her 103 miles.  It was really impressive to see such grit, and determination on a hot, challenging course.  I am so impressed by her & grateful to call her a friend.

And now what?  Here I am with 85 miles under my belt, but the larger 100 mile goal is still out there.  I will achieve it.  But as I'm still nursing the occasional blister & stiff and sore muscles, I'm not willing to say when just yet.

Thanks for reading, and all of your support.  Here's to the next grand adventure!

Taper Time!

Dear Training Cycle,
I think it's time for us to take a break.  I've been following you day in and day out... You've knocked me down, you've built me up, but I've met someone else.  Your partner, the taper.  It's been a good ride, including new personal records at both 50k & 50 mile distances.  Now it's time to see how well you really did.  I'm going to go & enjoy tapering & I'll see you later.

Well, it's really here - 3 weeks to go until the Superior 100 mile.  If I haven't done it, it's not going to get done.  I've always been a fan of the 3 week taper - some people do 2 weeks, but 3weeks has always been successful for me.  Now it's time to dial it down gradually while leading up to race day.

Here's a little overview of the adventures I've had while training this season.

First race of the season.  50k finish at Psycho Wyco Run Toto Run in Kansas City.

Trail Mix 50k.  Snowy day in April, where I won my age group!

The following weekend was Chippewa Moraine 50k.  Snowy & muddy.  Steph & I were 2nd & 3rd in our age group! Another successful weekend!

Night runs at Afton with my 2 favorite trail ladies!!!

Afton Trail Race 50k.  36 min personal best over the previous year's race.

Lots and lots of miles logged at Lake Rebecca Park.  So grateful for this gem only a few miles from my house.

And of course a mid-summer training run on the Superior Hiking Trail.

Running adventures while on vacation in Michigan.  Always fun to find beautiful places to enjoy & explore!

It's been fun, but I couldn't have done it without a certain someone!

Until next time!! Catch y'all later!

Voyageur 50 Mile Trail Race

This weekend Matt & I headed to Duluth for a weekend of adventure.  I was joining my trail buddy, Steph, along with her husband, Chris, and friend, Joy, for the Voyageur 50 mile Trail Ultra.  While the ladies were running, Matt & Chris headed to Canal Park in Duluth to see the Tall Ships that were spending the weekend in the harbor.

We had elected to camp this weekend given the jacked up prices of area hotel rooms.  Plus camping always adds to the adventure anyway.  Ma Nature can be a finicky lady, and after a week of 90 + degree days here in the cities, she graced us with a week of 70's and a nearly picture perfect forecast for the weekend.

We packed the car for a casual summer adventure in the northland.  As we drove north, we checked the weather and found cooler than average temps & lots of rain forecasted... Probably would have been wise to check the forecast BEFORE we left the house, because we'd have likely tossed in rain gear...

We drove through patches of rain & arrived at the campground to chilly, cloudy temps, but no rain. Got the tent set up (which was a pain, given we were trying to stake into really rocky soil,) and enjoyed a lovely evening around the campfire with the gang.

Pretty soon it was time for bed & the alarm was set for 4am.  As luck would have it, our piece of ground wasn't nearly as flat as we'd have hoped, and I had a restless night's sleep.  I was cozy given I have the warmest mummy bag ever, but didn't sleep well.

The alarm went off & we got our stuff organized.  I had packed a tank top to run in along with my new favorite skirt.  I had tossed some arm sleeves & a long sleeve shirt in my bag, but managed to leave those in the tent, so I was stuck running in a tank at 48 degrees at the start...

Once we got moving, I was ok.  Luckily I had my buff, that I could make into a hat, so that really did help keep me warmer.

6am race start - short trip on the pavement to the trail, and right away we were greeted with some really technical, rocky stuff along the river.  It was slow going since all the runners were still in packs, and picking through the rocks takes time.  I made a mental note, that the last 3 miles could be slow, since the course was an out & back.

After the 2.9 mile aid station, things opened up & we had some very runnable sections.  Plus multiple creek crossing of ankle deep water, & river crossings with broken bridges... The race director did say "If it looks unsafe, you're in the right place."  He was definitely right.  But that just added to the adventure.

Steph, Joy & I stayed & worked together to make the miles pass quickly.  Some places I lead the way, other times it was Steph or Joy.  The hardest sections were miles 20-25 & 25-30.  On the way out, at about 19-20 miles, we hit the Powerlines.  It was overcast & cool - such a change from last year, where I felt like I was baking in the direct sun.  The powerlines are these rolling "hills" maybe 200-300 feet straight up - think steep enough that you are grabbing the ground in front of you, to help you lift yourself up.  And repeat it 4-5 times... Up, down, up, down, repeat...  

The next section was Jarrow's Beach... the farthest thing from a beach... about a mile long section of pointy rocks just waiting to grab an ankle.... Really slow going.

Just past the 25 mile turnaround, about the time we were heading back through Jarrow's Beach, it started to rain.... We got through the beach before the rocks got too wet, but not soon enough to get through the powerlines before they turned into a greasy mess.

It was insane on the return trip through the powerlines.  They were so slippery that once you scrambled your way to the top, attempting to grab anything, bush, root, bramble, anything, to get traction on, you then slid on your butt down the other side because if you didn't, you'd end up on your butt anyway.

All of us hit the ground at least a time or two.  But I keep saying, "It's not how many times you fall, but how many times you get up." I've come to learn that falling is a part of trail running & you just have to dust yourself off, and carry on.  

There were times on the return trip that it was really raining, and cold.  It was gross, but we just kept moving & working together.  My main goal for this event was to finish feeling strong enough to continue.  Given that I have Sawtooth 100 coming up in Sept, I wanted to know if I could keep going.  Mission accomplished.  I was happy to be done for today, but didn't feel totally trashed... I still have a lot of miles to log between now & September, but this gave me a good boost of confidence.  Plus Steph & I set nearly a 2 hour PR from our time last year.  11 hours & 31 minutes, compared to a slightly different course last year in 13 & 1/2 hours.  And we finished as 10, 11 & 12th women overall.  :-)

I love spending the day on the trail with these ladies.  Plus it was so fun to meet some new people along the way.  Even if it was cold & gross, it was an awesome day!!!!!

Why I Run

I've been doing some thinking lately about why I run.  Why would I register for an event that requires me to "run" 100 miles, if I didn't have a good reason lace up my shoes nearly every day.

Last week I registered for my "A" race of the season - a 100 mile trail race on the Superior Hiking Trail in Northern Minnesota held in early September.  Training for this event is going to require me to log hundreds of miles on my feet over the coming months.

So I asked myself, Kate, why DO you run?

Here are some reasons that I came up with:
* I always feel better when it's done.
* To catch up with girlfriends.
* To enjoy some alone time.
* To listen to music.
* To enjoy the solitude of the woods.
* To avoid becoming complacent.
* To watch the changing of the seasons.
* To enjoy a sunrise.
* To enjoy a sunset.
* To look at the stars.
* To explore new places.
* To push my limits.
* I enjoy food more.
* A hot shower never felt so good.
* It becomes meditative.
* To relieve stress.
* To solve a problem.
* It becomes an outlet for my competitive spirit.
* To meet new people.

These are just a few reasons I lace up my shoes nearly every day & head out the door.  As I came up with this list, what really became clear is that there is no 1 reason why I run.  And each run can start as one reason & morph into another.  There are as many reasons for me to run as workouts I need to log!

Each day is a new adventure & I'm really excited to dive into training for my 100 mile event.  I'm looking forward to exploring new trails & parks around Minnesota & meeting new people along the way.  I'm excited to share many of those miles with my good friends & enjoy their company on trails new & old.

Until next time.  Happy trails!

Psycho-Wyco Run Toto Run 50k

First race of 2013 is on the books.  Took a weekend road trip with Matt & my trail buddy, Steph, to Kansas City to run the Psycho-Wyco Run Toto Run 50k.  It was a really fun weekend!

Thanks to Matt's Uncle Marvin & Aunt Janece, we had our own private tour guides & a very comfortable place to stay.

After an easy drive down on Friday afternoon, and a gourmet dinner of homemade pasta reheated in a gas station microwave, we made it safely to KC.  Matt & his family headed out for a couple drinks while Steph & I got organized for our race the following morning.

Since we had arrived late on Friday, Steph & I were one of the first ones to arrive on race morning to pick up our race packets.  It was a chilly morning, but it smelled like spring, and birds were chirping! Ahh, what a nice change of scenery!!

After a few trips to the porta potty & leaving our drop bags, we were ready to go! In typical trail race fashion, all the racers were hanging out near the start line, and somebody says "Go" and we're off.  At least this time I didn't face plant!

The course consists of 3 10 mile loops.  The first loop felt good - footing was good, found the course surprisingly hilly, & rocky.  There was still some frost in the ground, so it wasn't muddy...yet...  Just over 2 hours later, we had finished the first loop, and found that the back half of the loop is much harder than the front half.

Navigating the hills & rocks

I dropped my jacket & refilled water, and we were off on the 2nd loop.  I was still feeling good & setting the pace for Steph & I.  We passed a few folks, and were passed by a few others.  However on this loop it had warmed up and the footing got so sloppy! I mean, mucky, sloppy, slippery, shoe-sucking mud! Both Steph & I managed to stay upright this time around.  I was worried about what the 3rd loop might bring!

We finished the 2nd loop in 2:20 or so - not bad given how sloppy the trail was.  I wasn't ready to drop another layer just yet, but it had warmed up enough that I was very comfortable in capris and a long sleeve top.

On to the 3rd loop & I was feeling great! I continued to set the pace & Steph & I continued to put one foot in front of the other.  We passed a few folks early on, and settled in to a comfortable pace.  Shockingly, the footing had improved.  There were still some mucky spots, but overall it was better.  About half way through the final loop, a root reached up and grabbed my toe, and I took a digger.  Lucky for me, the footing was soft, but not sloppy there! There were a few folks behind us that we'd see as we left the aid stations, but no one really in front of us.

We came out of the woods at one point, to a paved road, up a hill to an aid station.  We ran up the hill (probably 24 miles in) and the guys at the aid station said "We haven't seen anyone run this hill in a while."  I laughed and responded with, "Well, it is only a 3 loop course! We don't have to run this hill again!"

After the final aid station, Steph & I agree that we haven't seen anyone in quite awhile and were probably good to comfortably run to the finish.  We were so wrong!! Shortly thereafter, we were passed by another couple.... Where did they come from??? That lit a fire in me, and I put the hammer down.  We quickly came to another steep, sloppy, hill & the girl that had just passed me was covered in mud & she was struggling to get up the hill.  I scampered by her and just kept running.  I looked over my shoulder to see that Steph was hot on my heels.  That was all it took, I just kept pushing, no way were they going to re-pass us! After a day on the trail, I wasn't going to be out run in the last 2 miles!

Sprint finish

I kept pushing, and Steph was right there & the other couple was no where to be seen.  I was not willing to back off though!  All the way through the finishers chute! It was such a blast!!

Happy Finishers

What a fun day on the trail! 50 degrees, blue sky & sunshine, and good company, made for a wonderful adventure.

Matt was on the course, but not able to track us this time & sadly missed our sprint to the finish.  That's ok, since we were eager to recap our adventure immediately!

I'm excited for another year of ultra running with my trail buddy, Steph & #1 crew member, Matt!!

Happy trails, y'all!!

Glacial Trail 50 miler

As I sit here basking in a solid case of DOMS (delayed-onset-muscle-soreness) by the fire, I am contemplating yesterday's event.  I have uploaded my race stats from my garmin, unpacked and started washing my gear, and wondering what to do next...  oh wait, I think it's time for a beer... :)

We drove to Sheboygan WI on Saturday for Sunday's race in nearby Greenbush.  I picked a Super 8 hotel that allowed dogs and was the bargain of the century... Let's just say for $50/night, we got exactly what we paid for!! The only redeeming quality was the fact that they had recently re-done the rooms and I found the beds extremely comfy.  We weren't there to spend much time in the hotel anyway, and we wanted to have our pups with us, so in the end it was a win-win.

Saturday it rained.  Saturday night it rained. Woke up at 3:45 am to more rain, and an 80% chance of rain for the day.  It was not looking good.  Driving there we could barely see out the windshield.  Gratefully, the start/finish area was at the Greenbush Fire Dept/Community Center.  A warm/dry place with plenty of room and real bathrooms!!  I would come to look forward to this near the end of the race!

The race started directly outside and headed out for about a 1/2 mile on blacktop and then a short connector trail to the main Ice Age Trail.  From there is was this trail to the 25 mile turnaround.  So if you were paying attention, you wouldn't get lost.  My trail buddy, Steph, and I ran together, and had no trouble finding our way.  The 6am start was in the dark, so headlamps were necessary until the 7 mile aid station.  The connector trail was mostly flat, and not technical and offered a good place for people to find their spot.  Once on the main trail, it got pretty rocky/rooty pretty fast.  It took a lot of concentration in the dark to not catch a toe and face plant early on.  I was focused on the the shoes in front of me and my little circle of light past my feet.  Pretty soon though, we were spread out and it felt like we were the only ones out there.

The course was gently rolling, and not too technical - lots of rocks to be aware of - little toe catchers that could make for a tough day.  But the rain - that was the biggest issue of the day.  Temps at the start were probably in the 50's - warm enough for shorts, but needed long sleeves.  I opted for a base layer, a smartwool long sleeve zip top, and a North Face windbreaker shirt - that was promptly soaked.  Being in the trees allowed some protection from the wind, and as long as we were moving, I was staying comfortable.

The first 25 miles we were really strong - 5:13 - to the turn around.  A stretch goal was to break 11 hours.  We were feeling confident.

It was 4 or so miles to the next aid station - and it started to pour.  It was really getting to me here - we had turned around, and were now directly into the wind.  My hands were cold, and the wind was biting.  You could feel the temp start to drop.  The conversations between Steph and I dropped off here - I was inside my own head, concentrating on moving forward, and staying warm.  That was about all I could manage.  The trail was getting really slippery, so not falling was becoming a priority.

When we arrived at the aid station about 13 or so miles from the finish, we were really cold.  I added a pair of gloves, and sipped on some hot soup.  That certainly helped.  The trail was really getting mucky now that we were on the section where all the 50k runners and passed through.  Concentrating on moving forward, and not allowing a bad attitude creep in - I called it "Weenie Mode" - when I was feeling tired, feeling the miles, but had no real reason to be cranky - not painful, not hungry, just feeling whimpy.  Eventually that passed - along with more miles, at 7 miles to go, Matt had more hot broth for us, ahh, that tasted so good!

And it was the final push to the finish.  Our pace had dropped off more than I wanted to admit... But we were still moving forward.  When we hit the blacktop, ouch, that was quite the shock to my legs, after all the soft mud - it felt so hard! But luckily, it didn't take long to get back to the community center.

After finishing and hosing down my legs and shoes, it was time to change.  Thank goodness for warm water and a warm dry place to change!  Even with a change of clothes, and some hot soup, it was like the entire day's worth of cold had seeped into my bones, and I could barely get the soup in while shaking!  It was time to hop in the Subaru with heated seats and make a bee-line to a hot shower!

Matt and the dogs were great company - although I rarely saw the dogs, since Matt said they wouldn't leave the car in the rain!! They may be smarter than I! :)  Matt was at every aid station with anything we might need.  My #1 fan!

Some final thoughts -
*need to do strength training - my arms should not hurt as much as my legs after 50 miles!!!
* incorporate some 30+ mile training runs to stay strong the last 1/2.
*always have broth ready for cold runs - it's amazing!

Happy trails!!!

Voyager 50 mile trail race

Wow, I'm not sure even where to begin.  Yesterday was such an amazing day.  I think I may need to backtrack a little to share how this race morphed into something unexpected.

Matt and I wanted to continue to push our limits this year by exploring the world of ultra trail running.  We started with the Trail Mix 50k, which was a good day for me, but not so much for Matt when he pulled out due to an injury after the 3rd loop.  We then had our sights set on the Afton 50k trail run as a final tune up before the Voyager 50 mile trail race, our "A" race of the season.

Two days prior to Afton, Matt suffered a significant back injury and elected to not run Afton, but also took Voyager off his calendar.  I ran Afton solo (see previous post), and met some new friends along the way.  Steph, who I met during Afton, took a leap of faith and agreed to run Voyager with me - this was her 1st 50 miler as well, and only her 2nd trail run ever!

As many of you may have heard, Duluth suffered a terrible flood the end of June.  This destroyed much of the original Voyager race course.  The amazing race directors still managed to put the race on with some changes.  From what I understand, these changes made the course even harder, and the R.D gave us an extra hour for the time allowed - 14 hrs this year.  The only goal Steph & I had for the race was to finish within the time allowed.

Matt, along with our friends Jennifer & Jonathon would be our crew and meet us along the way.

Race morning came, and Steph and I were ready.  The 6am start gave us until 8pm to finish with in the time allowed.  The course was 2 big loops, but there were loops with in the big loop.  We needed to finish the first loop in under 6.5 hours to not get pulled at the turn around.

The first mile was nice, some gentle climbing and lots of energy all around us.  Soon enough we were climbing the face of Spirit Mountain, which felt like (and was!) straight up.  The course was pretty well marked with  pink ribbons.  You had to be on the constant look out for the ribbons - at one point we nearly missed a turn.  Luckily somebody behind us was paying attention, and called it out! Who knows where we would have ended up??!

The next major spot on the course was Jarrow's Beach - a nearly mile long section of boulders surrounded by rock walls on either side.  This was mentally challenging.  Having to go slow and pick your way through the rocks.  We did see a snake in there, and screamed like little girls!  But it slithered out of the way quickly.  Whew.

After Jarrow's beach, we had an aid station before a 5 mile loop including the infamous power line section.  350 feet of climbing, over and over, and over, with no break from the sun.  It was plenty hot out there, especially on the second time around.  After the power lines, there were 3 creek crossings, and if you were talented, you could likely make it without getting your feet wet.... ha! I'm not that talented.  But the cold water did feel good.  And luckily I had dry socks waiting for me. :)

The final 10 miles of the main loop was relatively runnable.  That was important on the 2nd loop.  During the first loop, we picked up another runner named, Joli, and she hung with us most of the day.  At the end of the first loop we picked up another woman, Dawn, who needed some friendly faces to help her along.  So now we were 4.  It was so fun to chat, and run, and enjoy each other's company.

The miles clicked along, and soon we were at 35 miles.  Farther than I had ever run before! I was so excited to see my friends, Ann & Charles, there.  What a great boost.  Our crew was always spot on helping us get food and water and what ever we needed at the aid stations.  We headed out to the power lines for the 2nd and last time.  It was at this point that we started to get a little spread out.  Steph and I pulled ahead, and returned to the aid station at 40 miles.  We had 3 hours to go 10 miles.  We knew we needed to boogie.  3 miles to the next aid station - 45 min.  3 miles to the final aid station - 50 min.  This was the final aid station before the last 4 mile push to the finish.  Our crew was there and I was feeling a little glassy-eyed for the first time - I guess I can feel a little off at 46 miles! Some potato chips a hug from Matt and we were off to the finish, with time to spare!! Our energy was waning, so I carried my phone with music playing for us both to hear - a little "Eye of the Tiger" and Nelly's "Heart of a Champion" helped carry us in.

I would have had a very different day if I had been facing this challenge alone.  Having Steph with me every step of the way made for a great experience.  Plus meeting Joli and Dawn on the course added to the enjoyment of 50 miles.

I am disappointed that Matt couldn't run with me, but he was there with me every step of the way, none the less.  Next week is Matt's big event, as he unfortunately faces his 3rd back surgery :(  I'm sure this is just a road bump in the highway of life's adventures.  We'll get through it together and come back stronger than ever.

Until next time.

Jarrow's beach...

Top of the power lines...

FINISH LINE!!! :)

Afton Trail Race 50k

Summer is truly here, and Mother Nature hasn't taken any sympathy on us and jacked up the temps and humidity for the last couple weeks.  I guess that is good news for those of us preparing for July races, in that we are able to test out hydrating and fueling on the run while sweating buckets!

Last weekend, Matt and I did back to back long runs at Hyland Park.  18 miles Saturday, 20 miles Sunday.  It was unbelievably hot and humid, and running may be too strong of a word - there was lots of walking and power hiking, and short bursts of running (mostly in the shade when were being tormented by bugs!)  It was the most milage I've put in on foot in one weekend in my entire running career.  And I enjoyed every minute of it!  We did a lot of hill repeats straight up the ski hills at Hyland.  The thermometer at the top read 86 in the shade, and not a breeze to be found.

On our way home from Saturday's run, we stopped at the hardware store and picked up a plastic kiddy pool - we filled it with water from the hose and, Wa-laa! The poor man's ice bath!  It felt so good to sit in the cold water.

This week was still hot, and I didn't get much running in, but I think that set me up for a good run yesterday at Afton State Park.  Luckily, we had a small storm blow through and broke the temps for Saturday morning.  The biggest downer was that Matt was not going to be toeing the line with me.  As he is nursing a back injury and not taking any chances.

So at 6:30am Saturday, we were off, to enjoy 2 - 15+ mile loops of Afton Park.  It starts with a significant downhill, a short section of very runnable flat, and then a long uphill.  I knew most of the course, and the plan was to run the sections that I could, and walk the uphills.  A few miles in to the first loop, I joined up with some new friends, Steph & Joe, and we got to know each other over the next miles.  Chatting about a million different things really made the miles click by quickly.  Occasionally we would get spread out, and I was able to run some on my own, but by the time I got bored, I would have reeled them in again at a aid station or big hill, and the chatting would pick up where it left off.

Part way into the second loop Steph and Joe took off on flat section along the river.  I wasn't able to reel them in after that.  But it was ok, I was feeling good and had my own race to run.  I wasn't fast, but I easily put one foot in front of the other, and soon enough I was beyond 26.2 miles and on my way to my second 50 kilometer finish.

My biggest goal for this race was to use it as a long training day for the Voyager 50 mile trail race coming up on July 28.  I'm feeling much more confident that my training is preparing me to run 50 miles in the coming weeks.  I know it's not going to be easy - because like I always say - "If it was easy, everybody would be doing it!" But I'm ready to take on the challenge and meet the demons along the way.

Until next time...