Run Like a Girl

UltraCentric 24-Hour Race Report

2010-11-23T07:22:00.000-08:00

I said never again, but oops it happened again this past weekend! This was my 3rd time running the UltraCentric 24-hour race in Texas. This year the venue was a .6 mile loop in a campground near Coldspring, TX (outside of Houston).

24-hour races are just plain hard. It doesn't matter how fast you run, because the finish line is never any closer! It takes a different mental approach going in, a controlled pace for the first half, and the ability to really zone out.

I was lucky to be able to travel and hang out with my super friend and USA Teammate, Debbie Horn. She always cracks me up and we had a fun time!

When we got to the race on Saturday morning, Debbie and I discovered another teammate of ours, Amy Palmiero-Winters, was also racing! So, in a VERY small field, half of last year's National Team was there to race!

I was also SUPER lucky to have Meredith, Paul, and their dog Flyer drive the almost 4 hours from Austin to be there to support us! They defiantly kept me moving, fueled, updated, and in the right state of mind. At one point Meredith said, "What would David say?" Then I knew it wasn't going to be just a "run in the park" so no slacking! I really appreciate all their hard work, time, and effort over the course of the weekend!

The race started at 9am on Saturday. The funny part is I really don't remember much from the first 17 hours. Maybe I ingested too much campfire smoke, ran up too many hills, or dodged too many kids on their bikes, but the first 100 miles seemed to go pretty fast mentally. I really just played my mp3 player and zoned out as I ran loop after loop (after loop)!

When I got to the 100 mile (under 17 hours), I realized that I still had 7 hours left! That is a long time to still keep running--almost a whole work day. So, this is when I had to really make sure I was still in my mental zone. I just kept moving along. I never walked, but got to a slower shuffle at times.

Before I knew it, I had 4 hours left, then 2, then I was in the final push. Then, just like that, it was over. I ended up with 136.98 miles (almost my pr), so I was very pleased for the rolling course I was on.

Many thanks go out to Meredith and Paul for their amazing efforts all day crewing me! Thanks to the race director, Robert T. for making sure we had everything that we needed for the entire race! Thanks to Luis E. for the photos and support! Thanks to Drymax socks for a 100% blister free race with 1 pair of Max Pro socks the entire way! Thanks to Hammer for fueling me along the way! I am very fortunate to have all these wonderful people in my life! THANK YOU!

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Javelina Jundred Race Report

2010-10-26T16:26:00.001-07:00

I know, I know. It has been forever. I have been severely slacking on my blog. Part of it is Facebook's fault--posting there is short and easy. I really have no other excuse except for getting lost in life for awhile. But, I couldn't be happier to be racing again! I kicked off my comeback with the Javelina Jundred last weekend!

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this race! It is on the beautiful Pemberton Trail near Fountain Hills, Arizona. Every little detail is thought out for this race and it is a whole lot of fun too! Jamil and Nick Coury do an amazing job!

I got to Arizona on Friday morning before the race. I went with my running buddy, Tammy, to the packet pick up. I also made sure to carry out my tradition there. If you didn't know this--hugging a cactus brings lots of luck! After visiting with more friends, it was time to get organized and get ready for bed.

On race morning, I laughed as I dressed in my bee costume. I wasn't sure if I would be able to run at all in it much less 100 miles! Tammy and I met up with Tony for pre-race photo! I think it is so funny that we are all about to race!

I remember starting off slowly just wondering if I would be able to do the distance again. My training miles were way down so I was hoping I could "fake" it. As I got out there again, I started to get this energy. I saw so many friends (the washing machine loops are great for that because you get to see people all the time) and I took in the beauty on the trail as I remembered my journey to get to this point. Then I just went with it.

The race is six 15+ mile loops and one 10 mile loop. Each loop, I just felt stronger. By loop 2, it was hot so I lost the costume! Loop 6, I picked up Dominic Grossman as a pacer. Dom offered to pace me for the last 2 loops. He is very young, but already has a lot of ultra accomplishments under his belt--one of which is Badwater! So, we went off into the darkness for loop 6. I had a great time laughing and talking about silly stuff with Dom. He was great at keeping me moving and making the time fly by. We ran most every part of the course--even the big rocky hills!

Before long, we were on the final loop and the final section. Dom told me to take it all in and relish what I was just about to do. We ran it in hard and just like that, it was over. I finished in 17:11--1st female and 2nd overall in a new course record! I wasn't expecting that, but was elated to do this for myself!

I want to THANK everyone who helped get me to that starting line and finish line! Thanks to all my amazing friends and family! Thanks to Jamil and Nick for a great event (and all the volunteers), thanks to Hammer for fueling me perfectly, and Drymax for relentlessly supporting me and keeping my feet blister free again! Thanks to the beautiful ultra running community--I needed this accomplishment more than most people will ever know!

My BBC Boys at Badwater

2010-07-29T13:15:00.001-07:00

Almost 6 months ago, I was contacted by the BBC/Discovery Channel network because they were interested in using me in an upcoming documentary on the human body. So, I got all the details from them and agreed to do it.

The BBC/Discovery Channel documentary on the human body will air in the Spring 2011.

It is a 4 part series on how the body handles extreme conditions. So, they thought what's better than following a crazy runner through Death Valley in July!?!!

It ended up being tons of fun because they followed me the entire race with a police escort. I may have gotten a tad annoyed with the BIG microphone/sound guy. He would run with me for very short segments and hold that BIG microphone in my face. I felt a bit under the microscope at times, but all in all it was an awesome experience.

We didn't get many pictures during the race well because everyone was working hard trying to look normal! My crew was miked up at times too, so I am sure that will be interesting! The BBC boys were extremely awesome and I am thankful for the experience!

A Cure for the Badwater Blues

2010-07-26T05:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, I had the Badwater blues. I miss it a lot but am ready to move on. My body feels amazingly great as I gear up for my 4th Leadville Trail 100 in August.

Curing the blues started with a run in Leadville Saturday with my running buddy Kevin (who just finished his first Hardrock). We ran the race course from Twin Lakes and did the double Hope Pass crossing. It was a gorgeous day!

Today capped it all off with an amazing adventure! I ran and hiked two fourteeners--Grays Peak (14,270 feet) and Torreys Peak (14,267).

It was the most beautiful day! I felt like I was running in a postcard! I am getting my trail legs back--Leadville, here I come!

Whitney???

2010-07-23T18:06:00.000-07:00

Many of you asked, "Did you get to the top of Mt. Whitney after the race?" I love the history of the Badwater race going from the the lowest point to the highest point. So when I finished the race, I did my required interviews and relaxed for a bit. After about one hour, David, Rob, Sean, and I headed to the trailhead.

We hiked two and a half miles up and I had to stop for a rest. Next thing I knew, I was sleeping on the trail. I remember hearing people say, "Congratulations" as they stepped over me. I was so wiped out that I couldn't go any further.

I am happy I tried, but I think I just left it all out on the course that day. If I do this again, I will go to bed afterwards and then try the hike the next day. Mt. Whitney will have to wait another year. So, does this mean I have to go back :)???
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Badwater 2010 Race Report

2010-07-22T13:13:00.001-07:00

If you have run Badwater, you know. If you crewed Badwater, you know. Badwater is a very special event and 2010 was a magical year for me. I never dreamed that I could run the race that I did. It would not have been possible without my crew--David, Rob, Sean, Eric, and Cecilia. Their selflessness blows me away! I also want to thank Bob with Drymax Socks. The support I receive is unbelievable. Thanks Hammer Nutrition for continuing to fuel me to success! Thanks to all my friends, family, and blogger friends for all the support! I could really feel you out there! Also, a big thanks to Chris Kostman and the race volunteers for putting on another amazing event!

We got to Las Vegas on Saturday afternoon. After picking up crew and doing the grocery shopping, we made the 2 hour drive to Death Valley. It has a coming home type of feeling--leaving all the buildings and lights for a magically beautiful desert! We enjoyed a dip in my favorite pool at Furnace Creek and then headed to dinner with the BBC/Discovery Network. They discussed their plans for filming during the race.

Sunday morning, we headed up to do some pre-race filming with the BBC. I guess I had no idea what I was in for--this was a real documentary! They had BIG cameras, lights, microphones, etc. I ran up and down a road for 30 minutes while they filmed from a moving car. Then my crew took off for a short jog. After that, the BBC wanted to do an interview, so we headed to the Artists Canyon and set up. It is so beautiful and it overlooks the salt fields of Badwater. The camera had to wear a cooling vest because it was overheating! After that, all that was left to do was organize supplies and head to the required meetings.

After visiting with many BW friends, my crew and I enjoyed sun baked pasta in a can for dinner. Then they went to the pool and I relaxed and focused in the room preparing for the race. Race morning was very calm. I got ready and just waited. While I waited, 2 other waves had already started. This was really happening!

Down at the starting line at Badwater on race morning, my BBC crew was waiting for me. I stayed in the air conditioned van as long as I could and then it was to the Badwater sign for the group photo. While we were lining up, this man came up to me and asked if he could take his picture with me. He went on to tell me he enjoyed reading both my books and they really inspired him. I just laughed and told him I have not written any books yet. He quickly got the picture and apologized!

At 10:00 am the race started. I tried to pretend no one else was around and focused on my pacing plan. I kept looking at my Garmin because I wanted to run very conservative 9:30-10:00 minute miles. When I got to the first check point (mile 17 at Furnace Creek), I found myself lumped in a big group with Connie Gardner, Pam Reed, and Michelle Barton right on pace.

Continuing on to Stove Pipe Wells, I found myself leading the pack. I was a bit leery to be in first so early, but I was running the pace I wanted so I stuck with it. This part was particularly hot this year with hot head winds. Here I picked up my first pacer, Eric. He was awesome--spraying me off and keeping me cool. Then Cecilia joined me. She did a great job keeping me moving right on pace. There were times that the heat was unbearable, but then my crew would douse me down. I arrived at 42 miles right on my schedule pace.

Then it was up Townes Pass with Sean. This section is a 16 mile uphill that I took a lot easier this year. I threw in some power walking breaks which I feel gave me some extra energy for later in the race. It was beginning to get dark here, so we put on our required night gear and continued on. I felt really great here and was happy that I didn't have any stomach issues coming out of the heat. Once we were at the top, there is the steep downhill section. I ran this very conservatively because in years past I have blown up my quads here. Cecilia did a great job reminding me to land softly and to slow down!

It was dark now and the stars were out in full force. I continued on with Rob pacing me. At Panamint (mile 72), I felt great as I caught up with Oswaldo Lopez for a bit. This is my very favorite section of the course because you are up so high and the stars are amazingly bright. When you look over into the Valley, you can see the lights of the runners and crew coming from Panamint. It has this amazing energy! I had this renewed energy on the switch backs and continued on feeling very strong. I could really feel my training on the Colorado 14ers paying off. Race director, Chris Kostman, and video crew followed me up the mountain for awhile. It was fun chatting and didn't really feel like a race at that point. Soon, I came upon Jorge Pacheco. We yo-yoed back and forth for a bit during this time. I got to mile 90 (Darwin) happily ahead of schedule.

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At this point, I asked my crew if I could run alone for awhile with my mp3 player. Running all alone, I enjoyed the bright sky and reflected on the race so far. I went over my goals for the rest of the race and cruised on. I saw 2 shooting stars, talked with the road runner tree, and sang a few tunes aloud. I was having a great time! Around mile 98, I came upon Marco Farinazzo's (men's 2009 winner) crew. Jarom walked with me for a bit and told me that Marco was resting in the van. I sent Marco some encouragement and continued on. My crew was all standing on the road at the 100 mile mark when I got there in 18:44. It was like a 100 mile party that I couldn't stay for.

I continued on the long road to Lone Pine with nurse Eric. He decided to dress up for me! We continued on the next 20 miles as the sun was coming up. This section seems to go on forever because you can see Lone Pine, but it never gets any closer. My energy was starting to get a bit low here. My throat felt burnt, so I didn't do much talking--only grunting. Cecilia joined me and put me back in great spirits as I got renewed energy again.

I got to Lone Pine and turned it on through the town. I felt great at this point! There were people cheering and I was excited to get to the Portal Road. I still had my game face on because the race can be won or lost on the last climb. I made the left hand turn onto the Portal Road and was joined by Sean "Richard Simmons" Meissner. He looked so funny and even had a curly wig on! The last 13 miles are hard because of the elevation gains but because you know you are almost done, it is easy to push on. We power walked most of it. At this point my feet were aching and I was so ready to be done.

After the last check point, with about 3 miles left, David joined me. Although he was still pushing me on, we reflected back a bit, laughed at what they said to the BBC, and enjoyed the moment. Photographers and spectators were all over the last part encouraging us!

Finally, we got to the last section and my crew joined me as we ran in. I felt like I could run forever at that point! Seeing that finish line tape is the best sight in the world. 26:16:12! New women's record, 1st female, and 3rd overall. I couldn't have dreamed for a better finish than that! The reality of what had happen sank in as I looked at my amazing crew and was overwhelmed with emotions!

I had no swelling, no tightness, no bloating the entire race and look at those amazing feet thanks to Drymax socks! It was truly magical!

Everyone wants to know if that was my last Badwater. People are telling me to stop while I am on "top." I have nothing left to prove to myself, but can I ever let go of the feelings that come with Badwater? Nothing compares to the bond you have with your crew, the friendships formed there, and the comradery of the runners and crews crossing the Mojave desert for one goal. I don't know if I can let that go. I am not sure I want to let that go.

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Endurance Planet Badwater Interview

2010-07-20T16:35:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Kevin Patrick for the Endurance Planet Badwater Interview! It is always great talking with Kevin because he really understands ultra running!

It’s a Badwater edition of the Endurance Planet Hour. This week we talk with the three-time defending women’s champion, Jamie Donaldson, who set another record on the 135-mile course. We’ll also get the perspective of a Badwater rookie, Jimmy Dean Freeman, who finished the grueling race and is riding an emotional high (wouldn’t you be?) And we’ll round out the area with a piece of fiction that will keep you moving down the road.

Listen here.

Badwater Post-Race Interview

2010-07-19T14:41:00.001-07:00

Badwater 2010 Pictures

2010-07-18T15:05:00.000-07:00

I am working on my race report, but wanted to share a few of my favorite pictures from the race. I am on some sort of running "high" because I feel amazing! This is the best I felt after any Badwater and have even been running :)! Enjoy!

The 10:00am starting wave at the Badwater sign!

The Donaldson crewing van!

My crew the day after the race!

13 time Badwater finisher Arthur Webb--still my BW Hero!

After mile 90 on the course--I look forward to seeing the "road runner" every year in the dark. We have had many lengthy conversations!

In Vegas after Badwater with my professional pacer, Sean! I was admiring his abs!

With my parents before the race! They come and stay at my house with our dog every year. It is so comforting to know that everything at home is being taken care of! Thanks so much Mom & Dad!

My BBC/Discovery film crew. They were with me for the entire length of the race including a police escort!

Running up Towne's Pass

Fun in Vegas with Tony Portera's crew.

Pre-race with the crew

Doing the final stretch with David

The finish with men's winner, Zach G.

A real road runner the day before the race.

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Badwater 2010 Race Re-Cap Video

2010-07-17T09:12:00.000-07:00

2010

26:16!

2010-07-14T14:56:00.000-07:00

Some call it a hat trick, turkey, or 3-peat...I call it magical! I never thought that I would break the course record, be first female, and finish 3rd overall! None of this would have happened without the support of my CREW, family, friends, and sponsors! Lots of stories to tell after a little relaxation and fun!

Time for Badwater Part 4

2010-07-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

Badwater acceptance--check

Mt. Whitney permits--check

High mileage weeks--check

Many hours in the sauna--check

Eating right--check

Top notch crew--check

Terrific sponsors--check

Supportive family and friends--check

Badwater Part 4--priceless

It is time for Badwater Part 4! I really can't believe it it here, but I am ready! There are so many awesome things to experience in this race--from the time with my crew and other athletes, to testing and pushing my limits, to the amazing sights (like the sand dunes are pictured above--thanks Arthur for the photo), and overall to how this race makes me feel. It is crazy that a race like this can do all of this for one person! Thank you Badwater! I can't wait to be back!

Here's the weather forecast:

Monday
Jul 12
Sunny
High 119°F
Low 89°F
Precip 0 %

Tuesday
Jul 13
Sunny
High 120°F
Low 89°F
Precip 0 %

Wednesday
Jul 14
Sunny
High 120°F
Low 91°F
Precip 0 %

Good luck to all the HardRockers out there also! Thanks to EVERYONE for all your support through the year! If you'd like to follow the race, I start at 10 am on Monday. The plan for this year is to just stick to my plan (not worry about anyone else) and get to the top of Mt. Whitney! Let's get this desert party started!

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You can follow the race here: http://www.badwater.com/2010web/index.php

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There will also be Twitter update here: http://twitter.com/adventurecorps

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Meet the Crew: Rob Kapfer

2010-07-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

Name: Rob Kapfer (Waterboy)

Residence: Utica NY

Occupation: Engineer

Position on the Crew: Waterboy

Years on Jamie’s Badwater Crew: 3

Relationship to Jamie: brother-in-law

Favorite race you’ve completed this year: only have done 2. Neither were that enjoyable. If I had to choose I would pick “the summer sizzle” 5 mile run. This year the course was at a state university where I do a lot* of running, kind of felt like home.

*caveat this for all you ultra freaks, once or twice a week.

Next race: nothing on the calendar… I know Jamie and Dave want to race Connie and I in a 24 hr, but I need more than the 80 miles they are spotting us.

Favorite desert cuisine: can’t beat the famous D’s Nuts tenders and wash them down with a nuuntini.

Favorite part of the course: The entire course is amazing, over the 135 miles you get to see some very cool landscapes and ecological wonders. Running past the sand dunes near stovepipe is always impressive.

Favorite memory from last year: Jamie kicking butt for the second straight year.

Funniest moment from last year: Witnessing Sean after 1 beer, the skirt thing was great too but that was without beer.

Hopes for this year: Have fun, no injuries, and make it to the top of Whitney

When are you going to run Badwater? Is this a serious question. Maybe for the rest of the crew but not me.

If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be? Away from everyday life with Watergirl.

Anything else we need to know about you? Does my crush on Tony Horton count?

Meet the Crew: Cecilia Meech

2010-07-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Name: Cecilia Meech

Residence: La Jolla, CA

Occupation: Jack of all trades. However my job at the dog store is my favorite, as I get so many kisses every day. Today I got a fishy one!

Position on the Crew: Pacer and mega supporter.

Years on Jamie’s Badwater Crew: 0

Relationship to Jamie: I know Jamie through all what I have heard from Eric, and I can’t wait to meet her, and hopefully keep up with her in the heat!

Favorite race you’ve completed this year: Ironman St.George.

Next race: Up in the air. Trying to find one in Sweden, so I can visit family and run during one trip.

Favorite desert cuisine: Popsicles.

Favorite part of the course: TBD--First Year on the course.

Favorite memory from last year: Hearing from Eric how well you where doing.

Hopes for this year: That I will not melt away in the heat.

When are you going to run Badwater? Badwater is not on my list, too warm for the Swede.

If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be? In Sweden.

Anything else we need to know about you? I am Swedish and have lived here in the US for nine years. I love food and running 100 mile races lets me eat a lot!

Meet the Crew: Sean Meissner

2010-07-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

Name: Sean Meissner

Residence: Sisters, OR

Occupation: Banking pays the bills, but really I just like to play hard.

Position on the Crew: Pacer dude, water boy, cheerleader.

Years on Jamie’s Badwater Crew: This is #2.

Relationship to Jamie: Friend

Favorite race you’ve completed this year: Desert RATS stage race

Next race: Pikes Peak Marathon is the next “A” race, with a few others before.

Favorite desert cuisine: Um, lizards? Or do you mean dessert? In which case ice cream, cookies, and cinnamon rolls.

Favorite part of the course: 18 mile climb of Towne Pass

Favorite memory from last year: The excitement and nervousness I had at mile 1 when stopping to crew for the first time.

Funniest moment from last year: Seeing Jamie’s reaction to my cute outfit in Lone Pine.

Hopes for this year: W and the summit!

When are you going to run Badwater? When did the date get changed to November?

If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be? Tetons

Anything else we need to know about you? By the time BW rolls around it will be the 4th weekend in a row Jamie has seen me. I hope she’s not sick of me.

Meet the Crew: Eric Meech

2010-07-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

Name: Eric Meech

Residence: La Jolla, Ca.

Occupation: Ocean Lifeguard

Position on the Crew: Ultra Athletic Supporter / Pacer

Years on Jamie’s Badwater Crew: This will be the 3rd.

Relationship to Jamie: Friend

Favorite race you’ve completed this year: IronMan, Utah was beautiful.

Next race: Dunno’ yet.

Favorite desert cuisine: Sun baked pasta in a can.

Favorite part of the course: The hot part.

Favorite memory from last year: Watching Jamie and David run up to the Portals together.

Funniest moment from last year: Running with Jamie as she performed her “100 mile Dance” at mile 100.

Hopes for this year: Witness or assist with next years funniest moment!

When are you going to run Badwater? I’ll need to ask Chris K.!

If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be? This is a trick question isn’t it? Uhmm… Fiji!

Anything else we need to know about you? Nah, I might scare ya’!

Tribute to WaterGirl: Connie Kapfer

2010-07-02T07:04:00.000-07:00

Due to a new job and work commitments, we will be without WaterGirl on this Badwater journey. Connie is one of the best sister-in-laws there is and an amazing crew member! She is pictured above working hard...keeping me cool with a watery sponge. I just hope I don't dehydrate in the desert without you Connie! Thanks for your previous 3 years of crewing for me! I will miss you this year!

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They're Here!

2010-07-01T17:10:00.000-07:00

My all time FAVORITE sock, the Drymax Maximum Protection sock, is finally available in a TRAIL sock! I product tested them in Leadville and they are the same sock I know and love but more suited for the trail! They are a little higher to keep the rocks and dirt out and are an awesome grey color to mask the dirt! Check out the press release below:

New Trail Running Socks Proven To Prevent Blisters, Evolved From Consumer Demand

New Drymax Trail Running Sock Evolves From Consumer Demand

Already Proven Effective in Preventing Blisters - Two Top Runners Credit Drymax

Los Angeles, CA (MMD Newswire) June 30, 2010 -- Since the introduction of the Drymax Maximum Protection Running Socks (street version), two years ago, the experience of blister prevention in ultra-marathoners and consumers alike has prompted the Drymax Company to create the new Maximum Protection Trail Running Sock (off road trails). "World-class or everyday runners prone to blisters are finding that no matter how hi-tech or expensive their shoes, the socks are the weakest link," said Gus Blythe, founder of Drymax Sports.

Foot blisters are the most common sports injury and, until now, were inevitable for ultra long distance trail runners. Drymax Maximum Protection Trail Running Socks ($28 retail) are made with an aerospace fluoropolymer and the patented Blister Guard® system incorporating Friction Free® ePTFE fibers that have proven to prevent blisters for the runners of these grueling races.

During long distance running feet get hot and perspire and all traditional wicking fiber socks become wet and this moisture significantly increases friction (stickiness) between socks and skin. The more friction, the greater the chance for blisters. Increased friction creates a shearing effect between the outer and inner foot skin tissues. Shearing physically separates the two layers of skin which then fill with fluid, forming a blister. Blisters are painful, often forcing runners to drop out of a race early.

Confirmed by independent lab tests, Drymax® Fiber technology socks stay up to 25 times drier than socks made with Polyester, Acrylic, Nylon, or Wool wicking fibers. The Drymax difference is in the proprietary fiber technology which literally removes moisture from the skin of the feet, eliminating the environment to create blisters. "This is not wicking. We are way past wicking. Drymax means moisture removal," Blythe noted.

With the Drymax Maximum Protection Trail Running Socks, the patented Blister Guard® system incorporates Friction Free® fibers throughout the entire foot area of the sock. Chemically known as Polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), the Friction Free fibers have the lowest coefficient-of-friction of any fiber, making it the best to keep friction low between the skin and sock.

Combining Super Hydrophobic (water repelling) Drymax fibers with the Blister Guard® System keeps feet drier, cooler and more comfortable, significantly reducing the chances of hot spots and blisters.

Andy Jones-Wilkins a well known Elite Ultrarunner, and Winner of the 2009 Rocky Raccoon 100 and the 2008 Vermont Trail 100 Mile Races said, "After experiencing significant foot problems, I switched to Drymax Max Pro Trail Running socks and the way they cut down on friction is extraordinary ... I really have no idea how they work, but I can actually feel the water being pulled away from my feet within seconds of running through a creek. Since I started using them, I have not had a single blister and would not run a 100-mile race in any other sock."

Jamie Donaldson, top USA 100 Mile Ultrarunner and multiple race winner including two-time defending Women's Champion and Record Holder of the 135- Mile Badwater Ultramarathon and the USATF 200,000 Meter record holder said, "I wore the Maximum Protection Trail socks in the Leadville Trail 100 and did not have one blister!"

Drymax Maximum Protection Trail Running Socks are sold in specialty run shops and online. Zombie Runner carries them here.

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Badwater in Skirt Sports

2010-06-30T17:09:00.000-07:00

I am so lucky to be outfitted in this year's Badwater by Skirt Sports. The company was founded in 2004 by triathlete Nicole DeBoom of Boulder, Colorado. She wanted workout wear to be cute yet functional so the first running skirt was born!

Skirt Sports sent me various different skirts, tanks, and a dress to try in the desert! I actually ran my first 100 in one of their skirts, so I know they work great and are so comfortable! Check out their site for cute running clothes!

Behind the Scenes at Western States 2010

2010-06-28T12:06:00.003-07:00

Being at the Western States 100 was awesome! The whole event is everything I thought it would be and more! Congratulations to all the runners, crew, and volunteers for an awesome race! Meredith ended up getting her goals--finishing her 1st Western States and running under 24 hours. It was such an honor to be a part of her journey! Here are just a few pictures from the weekend (more can be seen on FaceBook).

Race morning with pacer Pete, Meredith, and me

Meredith running strong the entire day!

Teammate Amy finishing strong--she is the 1st amputee to ever finish Western!

Teammate Suzanna B. greeted by her kids at an aid station!

The SILVER buckle--finishing in 23:56 (4 minutes to spare)!

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Behind behind the scenes was definitely a lot of fun! Seeing all the crews, families, runners, and volunteers working hard is really pretty magical! Meredith ran strong the entire way! She had a plan an executed it perfectly and pacing her was such a highlight! She ran when she could and power walked for short breaks! Congratulations!

Drymax Interview

2010-06-15T16:45:00.001-07:00

I had the opportunity to do an interview with Bob MacGillvray from Drymax socks about ultrarunning and my Badwater experiences. Enjoy!

30 Days!

2010-06-12T05:18:00.000-07:00

I got this email from Arthur Webb who has become a great friend through Badwater. Arthur has completed the race 11 official times! Did I mention he is 68 and going back again? Unbelievable! Anyway, he sends me emails every now and again to remind me the race is coming. Here is the most current one...

Jamie:

In case you have not been checking, there are only 31 days before we line up in the middle of the street, amongst a huge roaring overflow crowd of crew people and spectators (maybe 10,000 this year, or will it be 1000, oops, most likely 100) to begin another incredible adventure across the heated but beautiful Death Valley basin and over all the rainbow hued and spectacular mountains.

And I am positive that you are just as excited as Arthur and the rest of the runner's that are part of this grand event.

Life is grand.

Can't wait, especially for a big hug.

Best wishes.
Arthur and the lovely Christine

Arthur and I before the start of the 2009 Badwater Ultramarathon

There are 30 days! Where did the time go? There is so much to do in order to get ready for a race like Badwater. You are out in the desert with nothing around, so you have to be prepared with anything and everything you or your crew might need. So, today I started to organize supplies and I can't believe all the stuff it takes to be ready for this race!

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In the time till the RACE, some exciting things are happening. First, I just learned of a long weekend trip David and I are taking to celebrate our wedding anniversary! YEAH! Then I get the amazing opportunity to pace Meredith Terranova in her 2nd Western States! Then it is taper time and off to my favorite place in the world! Can it get any better than this?
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Badwater Training Camp in Colorado

2010-06-07T15:22:00.001-07:00

What an unbelievable weekend with amazing people! Tony Portera and Brian Krogmann came to Colorado on Thursday for a long training weekend for Badwater. This will be Brian's first Badwater and Tony's second. Bob from Drymax even made the trip to see some of our training! The weekend was all about getting in good quality altitude miles with a bunch of fun too!

Day 1: Run from the Echo Lake Campground to the top of Mount Evans and back down. We started at about 10,000 feet to the summit at 14,240 feet. Total mileage= approximately 29 miles.

Brian and I nearing Summit Lake.

Tony and I several miles in.

The wind was CRAZY! It must have been 50 mph for the last 4 miles. It felt like you were running into a wall!

We had to stop and take a look at our biggest fan that day!

Day 2: Brian trying to navigate the snow to summit Pike's Peak.

It was 12 miles to the summit of Pike's Peak which brought us to 14,110 feet. Today was more about time on our feet since just the summit took longer than the total Evans run yesterday!

It was much harder than Evans due to all the treacherous snow fields we had to cross.

We were very happy when we made it to the top! David, me, Bob, Brian, and Tony

Rocky Mountain Double Race Report

2010-05-31T15:30:00.000-07:00

Since France, my running confidence hasn't been very high. I was training hard since, but couldn't get my World race out of my head. That's not a good feeling to have anytime much less when getting ready for such a hard race like Badwater. I didn't want to go into Badwater with this feeling of uncertainty. So on Saturday, I signed up to do the Rocky Mountain Double Marathon in Laramie, WY.

I did this race back in 2008 and loved it. It is a hilly out and back on mostly dirt and gravel roads in Medicine Bow National Forest. It begins at 8,700 feet and drops to 8,000 feet at the turn around. David and I headed out very early for the race on Sunday morning. I was very excited that David decided to do the single marathon!

We started off at 6am. It was really cold--our car said 31 degrees! I remember in the first few miles, I thought to myself how great it was to be back in a race especially one as beautiful as this! I was hoping I would be able to keep it together, but in the back of my mind was a small shadow of doubt.

So for my first marathon, I felt okay, but not quite right. Nothing hurt, but I just wasn't warmed up! Maybe it was my high mile training week prior or that I still felt the 24 hour run. I wasn't sure, but again I was just thankful that I had no lingering stomach issues from France. I finished my first marathon in 3:51 (slow for a marathon, but a good pace for 8,000+feet and 52.4 miles). I was 4 minutes faster than in 2008, so that made me happy!

I finally warmed up for my second marathon and began pushing the pace. Finally, everything felt right again! As I was heading out, I could see everyone on the turn around. What a great group of people running! I kept looking ahead for David as he was finishing his race. He looked as fresh as ever and completed the marathon in 5:09! Congrats David!!!!!!!

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As I continued on, David came by and crewed me for the last 13 miles. I could see the first place male, Cory Hanson, way out in front. He went on to finish in a course record of 7:08! I got back into the forest for the last 7 miles and really wanted to break 8 hours. I was on pace to, but the last 3.5 miles (all up a BIG hill), really slowed me down and I finished first female, 3rd overall in a new course record of 8:07! I had no blisters (thanks Drymax) and no stomach issues (thanks Hammer). I am very pleased with that because I shaved 10 minutes off my 2008 time. More importantly, I have my confidence back and am ready to tackle the intense Badwater training that lies ahead! Results are here.

Sweet Rain

2010-05-25T15:23:00.000-07:00

I know it is Badwater season because I have watched the Distance of Truth several times already! I've found myself really inspired by the music in the video. I did some research about the soundtrack and found the artist to be Willie Kuklis. He is from Vancouver, British Columbia, and his band is called Willie Kuklis and The Disappointments. I really wanted to get the song featured in the video--Sweet Rain. It is a relaxing, beautifully inspiring song that reminds me so much of our Badwater efforts.

I got in touch with Willie and he graciously made Sweet Rain available. If you'd like to purchase just that song, scroll down to number 9 and purchase the single or check out his whole album. It is now my number one tune on my MP3 player set for the Mojave!

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I can't think of lyrics that remind me more of Badwater (and Mt. Whitney):

Do you wish the world around you

To reveal your weathered face

Can you see yourself drowning in the clouds

Before you have to leave this place?

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Thanks Willie for such a beautiful and inspiring song!

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It's All Your Fault 60 Minutes

2010-05-24T17:20:00.000-07:00

Back in 2004, I was a marathon runner. I completed Pittsburgh, Denver, Boston, San Diego, Boulder, Utah, and New York City. I didn't know there was a whole new world out there. Then one night, I saw this 60 Minutes special on the Badwater Ultramarathon. That was it, I was hooked! I knew I had to do Badwater. In 2005, I did my first 100 (Leadville) and quickly added to my ultra resume before competing in my first Badwater in 2007.

I am not sure what I'd be doing if it wasn't for this 60 Minutes special. Needless to say, I am really hooked. This July, I'll be heading back for my 4th Badwater. There is something really special about this race and I can't wait to get back to Death Valley!!!

World 24-Hour Race Report Brive, France

2010-05-21T10:01:00.000-07:00

After a few days of touring Paris--David, Debbie, Roger, Dan, Lizzy, and I were off to Brive by train for the race. We arrived on Wednesday in time for all the pre-race activities. It had been really cold and rainy for our time in Paris, so we were hoping for better weather in Brive. It was raining when we got there, but amazingly enough when we met with the team for photos and the Parade of Nations, it stopped raining for the rest of the time there!
The race started at 10 am on Thursday. It was a cold start. I went into the race with my pacing plan and wanted to stick to it. I was trying to hit 140 (or more) miles. My biggest thing was that I wanted to not concern myself with how anyone else was doing and just do my thing. It is too easy in these big races to get swept up with the other runners and throw your entire race off.

So, I was off to a pretty good start. I was hitting my pace right off, but I just didn't feel like I had any energy from the get go. I went through 50 miles right about the time I had planned, but I remember telling David that I felt so slow! He encouraged me that I was on pace and to keep moving.

About 9 hours into the race was the first (and ONLY) time I felt good. I saw Debbie on the course about that time and remember telling her that I had my giddy-up back. Well, that was short-lived (for about 3 loops) and then the major problems started. I was stopping every loop and not absorbing anything, so it made for a very long night. It got so cold, so I put on lots of clothing and kept powering through.

The whole time, I kept thinking that it was going to get better. I never experienced anything for this long and was optimistic that it would end. I think that hope was what kept me going. Also, being out there with my whole team giving it their all makes it really hard to stop! Well, things never got better for me, but it was an amazing experience watching Scott get the American Record and the men turn it up in the final hours to secure 2nd place and seeing the women step up and run tough the entire time! WOW, what an honor!

The biggest thing for me right now is I feel like I really let the team down. I feel like the French team was vulnerable this year and we really could have had a chance. I can't dwell on it, but can learn from it, and use it to fuel my next race!

One last night back in Paris with David made for a very great end to our European Vacation!

Thanks to Everyone for all your support and thoughts to the Team while we were in France! We could really feel you there!

The Sock Winners are (please email me with your shoe size, m or f, and your shipping address):

1st Place (12 pairs of socks): Dopple Bock guessed 125.33 miles

2nd Place (6 pairs of socks): Lesley Jones guessed 128 miles

3rd Place (3 pairs of socks): Shel guessed 132.8 miles
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Up next: Bring on Badwater Part 4!

Team USA in Action

2010-05-20T13:04:00.000-07:00

While I am working on my race report, I thought it would be fun to show amazing Team USA in action in France. It was such an honor to share this experience with such great people! Thanks Everybody! I hope we can do it again in Switzerland next year :)!

Team USA minutes before the start.

Scott had such focus and control the entire time! What a champion!

Debbie running stronger than ever! She is such an amazing role model for the team!

Dan pushing through despite some medical issues.

Jill leading the world! She is so strong!

Mike was so impressive. If you want to see determination and passion look at his face!

Amy worked through many issues also, but never gave up. She pushed on regardless!

Serge is so consistent and strong!

Anna staying consistent throughout the entire day! She is amazing!

Phil running as strong as ever!

Suzanna pushing the entire way! No give up in her!

John pushing onwards despite problems. Amazing John!

Me smiling because I am getting closer to the bathroom!

France Picture Re-Cap

2010-05-18T16:06:00.001-07:00

As you probably figured, I am not very happy with my performance at the World Championships in France. I went there in best shape of my life ready to go for it. I woke up on race morning with severe diarrhea, but thought it would eventually go away. The severity only got worse and because I wasn't absorbing any liquids/calories, I had zero energy to perform. Also, I had to stop every kilometer loop to use les toilettes! It was a small miracle that I pulled off 120.61 miles in the condition I was in.

I am proud that I preserved, but am disappointed that I let the team down. I am still not back to normal, but hoping this parasite runs its course soon. Lesson learned= use bottled water for EVERYTHING in a foreign country. It was another amazing experience even if the result wasn't what I was hoping for. Here are just a few of the wonderful experiences we had! Race report to follow and sock winners revealed!

Me, Dan Rose, and Debbie Horn at the Rodin Museum being goofy!

The amazing Louvre Museum.

David, me, and Debbie outside the Louvre Museum.

David and me outside of my favorite--the Arc de Triomphe

An amazingly beautiful cemetery houses Jim Morrison's grave

Gorgeous stained glass in Notre-Dame

The Thinker at the Rodin Museum

The Eiffel Tower at night--what a breath taking sight!

Team USA pre-race

Etats Unis D'Amerique at the parade of Nations

If only my insides held up as good as my feet! Thanks Drymax!

Au Revoir

2010-05-11T04:44:00.000-07:00

Thank you Everyone for all your mileage guesses! This is being auto-posted while I am in France waiting to race! I have this mix of pure excitement and fear! The 24-Hour race is HARD--I know I am going to have to stay within myself, my plan, and do what I do! If you'd like to follow Team USA, live updates will be here. The IAU will also be doing live updates on Twitter here. Look for USA photos to be shown from the race here.

Too bad Morrison won't fit in our XL bag to be checked! Sorry Morrison--we tried!

On my MP3 player, my top motivational song is by Eminem (Lose Yourself). It will keep me focused while we go around and around. The lyrics are perfect for this race:

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Look, if you had, one shot, or one opportunity to seize everything you ever wanted - one moment would you capture it? Or just let it slip?

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So here I go, it's my shot. Feet fail me not, this maybe the only opportunity that I got!

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GO USA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

For Elliott

2010-05-06T15:25:00.000-07:00

After I ran the Delano Park 12 Hour in Alabama in 2009, I met some amazing people and found a new sense of purpose. The race director, Eric Schotz, treated me like family. He set me up with amazing pacers (thanks again Eric and Paige) and put on a fantastic race. After learning about his son ELLIOTT (with Tay Sachs disease), I was compelled to try and help. So, I dedicated my 2009 Badwater race to Elliott.

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Well, I learned today that Elliott's battle is nearing an end. It could be any time now. I feel this very large hole in my heart for the Schotz family. So, I just got some extra motivation for the World 24-Hour Race next week. I want the Schotz family to know that I am thinking of them and will be running this race for Elliott!

The Bets Are Sealed

2010-04-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: Bob from Drymax told me that he will give 12 pairs of socks to the closest guess, 6 pairs to 2nd closest, and 3 pairs to the 3rd closest guess. Guesses must be made on my blog and the poll closes Tuesday, May 11th.

Two weeks until we toe the line in Brive, France! I am getting so excited and ready to start my taper! Going to France has always been something I have wanted to do! When I was little, I would wear this brown French beret around all the time pretending that I was French. After taking 4 years of the language in high school, my desire to go to France became even stronger. In 9 days, I'll finally be in the country I fell in love with many years ago. And to top it off, I get to run there!
Now to the business...any good 24 hour race includes a friendly wager. Last year Debbie and I had a mileage wager for Italy. After guessing the closest last year, I am stepping it up a bit and wagering with Debbie and Dan. The goal is to guess the other's final mileage and the closest (under or over) wins. The loser has to do whatever is in the envelop. Our guesses are sealed and will be opened after the race.

I got a nice surprise in the mail this week from my parents. They sent me this adorable Eiffel Tower necklace for good luck! Thanks Mom and Dad!

Does anyone want to take a guess how many miles I will run in France? What are your mileage predictions for me? The closest guess gets something (maybe socks--I'll have to ask Bob)!

Amazing Gifts

2010-04-22T18:30:00.000-07:00

France is 3 weeks from today! I really can't believe it! Everyday, I am reminded how lucky I am to have these amazing opportunities all because of ultrarunning! Recently, I received some gifts that I wanted to share:

Gift #1: Friendship! I was so happy to be joined on Sunday by David, Tressa, David R, and Morrison! They all came to run (Morrison watched) the 8-hours of Chatfield! It was a great day and a super way to test my USA clothes to make sure I can run in them for a long time!

Gift #2: A belt buckle ring! My student, Taylor, brought this to me last week after she got it from a gumball machine. She said that she thought I would like it since I have so many belt buckles (due to finishing ultras)! How cute is Taylor?!!!

Gift #3: This note from a wonderful women who works with David to go along with the breathtaking quilt she made for me! I think it is so beautiful!

I appreciate all the support and love I feel everyday! Ultrarunning is such an amazing sport and I feel so lucky to be involved in it!

You Asked...I Answered

2010-04-15T17:35:00.000-07:00

Our classroom summer countdown!

It has been BUSY here! 23 is the magic number...yes, that is how many days until the end of the school year (we start at the beginning of August in Colorado)! That is not counting the 5 days I will have a substitute when I am in France, so it is actually less for me. But who is counting :)! So, there has been lots going on at work. Also, we are getting REALLY close to the World Championships! My days have been packed getting in quality training while trying to be a good teacher and plan in all of the end of the year activities!
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Looking back at several posts, I realize that I have been slacking. I appreciate all the comments, but haven't been the best at answering your questions, so that is what I am going to do! You asked...I answered.
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Shutupandrun, Meg, and Dan asked... "What kind of distance does an ultra runner do on the treadmill?" I did 42 miles on my treadmill on that snow day!
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Kathleen@ForgingAhead asked..."Is that your Dad running a bit with you?" Yes, my parents crewed the Philly 100. Every lap, my Dad would be waiting to finish each lap with me! It was very special!
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Shutupandrun asked... "I am gearing up for marathon #2 and have bad blisters. Would you recommend completely changing shoes or trying the Drymax socks first?" I think it is important that your shoes fit your feet and running style. Runner's Roost can get you on a treadmill and analyze your foot placement to recommend the best shoes for you. Also, good socks are crucial! I think you will love Drymax socks! I made it through the Mojave Desert without a single blister! Email me and I'll send you some to try!
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"Also, do you only rely on Hammer products and no typical ultra food (potatoes, etc) during these races?" With this, everyone is different. I've tried it both ways....eating ultra foods vs. purely Hammer products. I am a huge fan of just the Hammer liquid diet. I keep fueled with the right things for my body, not just a bunch of sugar from a handful of M&M's.
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Brownie asked..."Is that the same swag the guys at the recent indoor world championships got?" From what I saw from pictures, I think it is! I think all US athletes received the same stuff! I even think I saw a picture of Kara Goucher in the same jacket I just got!
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Sean asked..."Why the heck are you so tan?" Two words Sean--spray tan! Long story, but David and I were supposed to go with Water Boy and Water Girl to a beautiful tropical location over my spring break. David had some work commitments come up that week, so we had to postpone the trip. I wanted to feel like I was on that beautiful beach sipping my Mike's Punch, so I got the spray tan!
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If you have any other questions, feel free to ask! I'll answer eventually! :)!
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Sunday 8-Hour Fun Run

2010-04-13T19:23:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, I am running an 8 hour fun run in Chatfield State Park. David and I mapped a route out to give me some practice for France. It is longer than the France course (5 miles), but gives a good mix of road, trail, and small hills. The start/finish is behind the horse stables (with a bathroom and spicket for water). There is also a picnic table where we are going to leave some supplies.

Here is a link to the course: http://www.usatf.org/routes/view.asp?rID=363656

I know most people don't like loop courses, but if you want to run for a bit on Sunday, come and join me. I will start at 7am sharp at the bathroom by the stables. Join me for some or all of the 8 hours. I hope to see you Sunday!

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Look How Far We've Come!

2010-04-07T18:50:00.001-07:00

My World 24-Hour USA uniform package for France came yesterday. Now that the USATF sponsors us, we have really come a long way!

My first year on the team in Korea 2008--we wore whatever felt right and they gave us this paper USA tag to pin to our tops. By the end on the race, the USA was all folded in!

My second year on the team in Italy 2009--we all went in together and paid to have real USA singlets made. We looked a lot better!

And now I can hardly believe what came in the mail for France: 3 AMAZING USA Track and Field jackets...

1 USA hat and 2 pins...

4 pairs of pants of various thicknesses...

3 USA long sleeved shirts...

2 USA singlets...

3 different types of running shorts...

2 USA t-shirts...

and 2 USA backpacks and 1 USA Track and Field LARGE rolling suitcase!

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I guess this is what the Olympians feel like! We are going to look and feel like we are really representing the United States! I am so excited! Thank you USATF!
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Philadelphia 100 Race Report

2010-04-06T18:07:00.001-07:00

The Philadelphia 100 was another great experience. I had no expectations going into this race. I wanted to use it as a training for the World 24-Hour Championships in France, so I went into this training race without tapering.
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The mix of family, friends, and beautiful weather made it very special! When we got to Philly, we did some touristy things. First stop, the Liberty Bell! What an amazing symbol! Then it was race time!

Besides my amazing parents and family, so many great friends were there too! Here's Dan Rose on the run! It was so great to run with him again. I met Dan in 2006 at the Umstead 100. Now we are Drymax, Hammer, and 24 hour USA teammates! Dan has been a huge source of inspiration for me! If you don't know his story, check out his blog, Run 192. Dan got to 58 miles and wisely stopped because of a barking hamstring. He was smart to not injure himself for France!

Anthony Portera, who just rocked Umstead in a new PR of 19:24, made his way down from NYC to hang out with my parents, pace David, and crew for me. He also does and amazing impression of a flamingo! Thanks for everything Tony!

Then there is my amazing husband, David! He powered through 50 miles with his non-ultra training! He is completely unreal!

All and all, it was a great race. The course is a flat and fast 8.48 mile loop around the beautiful Schuylkill River. Twelve laps puts you over 100 miles. The path is well-used by runners, bikers, roller bladers, and walkers. It was great to see so many people out all day long. In addition to all of that excitement, there were also college crew races on the river all day to keep us entertained! I got to watch my alumni, Penn State, compete in two races! The whole area had a great vibe!

Dan and I started out a little fast, but that is why I was there to test my pace. After 50 miles, I locked into a pace that I could hold. It was in the 80's and felt a little bit warm. I found myself craving things I usually don't during races--like caffeine! Every loop I would come back to the aid station and my Dad would be there to run in the last little bit with me. Then I would change bottles with my Mom and tell her what I needed next. For only their 2nd ultra ever, they were amazing! It was so special to have them at the race! Thanks Mom & Dad for everything!

I just kept clicking off loops and before I knew it, I finished 11 laps. I kept feeling stronger after each loop. Also, I had no major issues the entire day! This gave me a lot of confidence going into France. After taking much needed winter time off, I am pleased to have my fitness level back up where it should be!

I came through ready to complete my last loop and Anthony told me he secured a pacer for my for my final loop. He convinced Chad, the race massage therapist, to pace me for my final lap. I was excited to have a pacer so that I had company in the dark. I knew I was going to have to dig deep to get under 15 hours!

Chad and I started off on loop 12 and caught up to Keith Straw ( a Badwater alum). We chatted for half of the lap! Boy is he a character--I ran part of Badwater behind him and his pink tu-tu last year. Chad kept pushing me and before long, we were in the last few miles! There is nothing finer than knowing you are about to finish a 100 mile race under your goal time!

I never once changed my shoes or socks and even with all the heat and sweat, I had zero blisters in my Maximum Protection Drymax socks! Pretty amazing after all that I put them through! Thanks Drymax!

I was fueled by Hammer products for the entire 100 miles. I had no stomach issues and was never hungry! Thanks Hammer!

The Philadelphia 100 Mile Endurance Run
Find more Runs in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Here are my splits:

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Lap 1 -1:09
Lap 2 -2:14
Lap 3 -3:23
Lap 4 -4:35
Lap 5 -5:48
Lap 6 -6:55
Lap 7 -8:20
Lap 8 -9:46
Lap9 -11:00
Lap 10 -12:22
Lap11 -13:44
Lap 12 -14:58
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Thanks Everybody for your great comments and support!

Philly Fun!

2010-04-04T06:25:00.000-07:00

What an unreal weekend in Philly! I couldn't have asked for a better weekend with my amazing husband, family, and friends!

For a quick recap...Dan Rose and I started out a little fast. We both came through with a 6:55 fifty mile split.

David amazingly completed 50.4 miles in 10:54!

I am so thankful for all the support I had today! My parents crewed their first 100 like they were old pros.

I was able to run a new 100 PR of 14:58!

I feel super lucky to have such amazing people in my life to help me achieve my best!

Philadelphia 100--Family, Friends, & France

2010-04-02T07:41:00.000-07:00

I am so excited for this weekend!!! David and I are off to the Philadelphia 100 in Pennsylvania. The race is perfect training for France because it is a loop 8.4 mile semi-rolling course. I am using this as my final tune-up!

Some other great things about this weekend: David is planning on running a 100km of the race. It is always such a hoot when he is out there competing at the same time! Also, my parents are taking the train from Pittsburgh to watch and crew for us! The only ultra they ever saw me race was the Mt. Masochist 50+ several years ago, so I can't wait for them to be a part of a 100! Another bonus, we are meeting up with teammate, Dan Rose who is running too! And my Leadville pacer, Eric Lee, will be running! Can it get any better??? Oh yes it can....the forecast is calling for 79 degrees and sunny!

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Snow Day!!!!!!!!!

2010-03-24T10:30:00.001-07:00

What a nice surprise...another SNOW DAY today!!!!!!!!! It couldn't have come at a better time! Our school and kids had a strenuous week last week doing our state testing! Our Spring Break is next week and the kids are ready for it!

To try to make the week fun for the kids, the 6th grade is competing in the Great Math Race on Friday! I am so excited for it! They work in teams of 4 to solve math problems all around the school. They have to wear race numbers just like in a real race and there are time penalties if they don't follow the rules (like in Badwater)! The total race should take about 2 hours! Am I forcing my students to be ultra runners-HA??!

I tried really hard to run in this beautiful snow this morning, but it was useless! So, I got a super long run on the treadmill (longer than one should ever have to run on a treadmill)! I am just thankful I had the time to do this today! I am looking forward to some fun running adventures next week for Spring Break--I will keep you posted! Now for a long walk with a Newfoundland who loves snow!

Wanna Run???

2010-03-12T15:38:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday 3/17/10 (St. Patrick's Day), I will be at Road Runner Sports in Westminster, Colorado. Nathan Lindskoog (Road Runner Sports Marketing Rep) organized the "Run With Jamie" starting at 6pm and 30-45 minutes of talking and or questions afterwards. We will be running a 5K together on the Big Dry Creek Trail. There will also be some information on Drymax Socks and Hammer Nutrition Products. I even heard a rumor that there might be some beverages after the run to help celebrate the holiday! If you live close to the store, I hope you can make it! I look forward to running with fellow Colorado runners and sharing stories!

Real Inspiration

2010-03-08T16:06:00.000-08:00

Last night was the 36th annual Sportswomen of Colorado banquet. Here Colorado's outstanding female athletes and persons who have contributed to women's athletics are honored. I was very lucky to be an award winner for the 2nd straight year. It is just a pretty amazing night--hearing about all the impressive accomplishments of all the women! Unbelievable! There is a mix of young and old with past, present, and future Olympians in the room! Besides hearing all the stories of the award winners, some highlights were hearing Olympian Jenny Barringer speak and finally meeting to Anita Ortiz!

All award winners were chosen by a media panel from a pool of athletes of all ages nominated from throughout the state. The 2010 Award Winners for their performance in 2009:

Basketball
Anna Prins Broomfield H.S.
Brittany Spears Univ. of Colorado

Cross Country
Kelsey Lakowske Boulder H.S.

Field Hockey
Lauren Miller Duke Univ.

Golf
Kim Eaton Greeley University of Denver

Gymnastics
Michelle Tharp Ft. Collins H.S.
Jessica Lopez Univ. of Denver

Horsemanship
Tiana Yocam Kiowa H.S.

Lacrosse
Caroline Cryer US Women's Elite National Team
Devon Wills US Women’s Elite National Team

Running
Kaitlin Hanenberg The Classical Academy
The Classical Academy Cross Country Team

Skiing Nordic
Antje Maempel Univ. of Denver

Alpine
Lindsey Vonn

Snowboarding
Gretchen Bleiler

Soccer
Olivia Wagner Alexander Dawson H.S.
Danielle Foxhoven Univ. of Portland, Colorado Rush

Softball
Shelby Babcock Legacy H.S.
Alisa Heronema Regis Univ.

Swimming
Missy Franklin Colorado STARS Swim Club
Bonnie Brandon Cherry Creek H.S.

Tennis
Sammie Watson Kent Denver

Track and Field
Elizabeth Tremblay Thompson Valley H.S.
Laura Tremblay Thompson Valley H.S.

Triathlon
Julie Dibins Boulder

Ultra Running
Jamie Donaldson Littleton

Volleyball
Morgan Broekhuis Colorado Springs
Christian Danielle Minch Colorado State University

MASTER SPORTS
Cross Country: Laura HaefeliDel Norte
Cycling: Jane Finsterwald Basalt
Racewalking: Marianne Martino Littleton
Triathlon: Judyann Cummings Denver
Ultra Running: Anita Ortiz Eagle
Xterra Triathlon: Cindi Toepel Denver
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Thanks Sportswomen of Colorado for honoring women's athletics!

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What Would You Do For $33.00?

2010-03-04T16:28:00.000-08:00

It was another beautiful day in Colorado! While running in Waterton Canyon this afternoon, I was approached by a ranger. He told me that there has been active mountain lion hunting of big horn sheep by the caretaker's property. Apparently 3 mountain lions were seen several times in the vicinity! Active hunting??? 3 mountain lions??? This brought me back to the feelings I had during the LOST 118!!! I was also reminded of a story that a trooper told David while he was crewing for me during the race.

Here's the story: In 2008, some intoxicated boys were at Lake Okeechobee at 2 in the morning. They got this great idea to pool their money and bet one boy that he couldn't swim across the canal. The boy decided to take them up on the bet for a measly $33. He got in the water and made it about halfway when an 11 foot alligator ripped his arm off. When the paramedics came for him and heard the story, they asked him if he got the money. He told them that they didn't give him the money because he only made it halfway across the canal! This really happened! Here's a link to the story. So, what would you do for $33???

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A Good Sign

2010-03-03T15:48:00.000-08:00

This week, I am taking it pretty easy! Today, Morrison and I went for a run at the dog park. It was absolutely beautiful and near 60 even!

What a great day to be running in the park with my boy!

In the mail yesterday, I received our permits for Mt. Whitney! This is so exciting and such a good sign for the race ahead! Last year, I was denied twice and didn't have permits until a couple days before the race. Then I didn't even get to the top! I have a good feeling about this year and my prospects of finally getting to the TOP of Whitney!

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The 2010 Badwater race roster was just announced. Check it out here.
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Lost 118 Race Report

2010-03-02T16:21:00.000-08:00

The Lost 118 was definitely just what I needed heading into France. I am normally very consistent and safe when I race. This was the race for me to try and push out of my safe pace! David and I left Thursday night after work. We got into Orlando, FL around 12:30am and were in bed by 2:00am. We slept in Friday and had a very relaxing day with a visit to the beach and lunch on the ocean before driving to Okeechobee, FL.

After checking into the race hotel, we drove around to see Lake Okeechobee and the race course. It was absolutely beautiful--the trail was sandwiched between a water canal and the lake. The area is abundant with with a variety of birds and fisherman (and of course alligators)! We then went to find a place to eat and ended up buying some pasta at the grocery store and heating it up in the microwave in our room before the pre-race packet pickup. There we saw some Badwater alums and a lot of other really nice people offering advice on following the course. One awesome lady even gave me a laminated course map that she made! Thank you! After organizing supplies and going over the course and my plan again, it was off to bed.

The race started at 6am after a briefing about aggressive alligators that have been raising havoc on the trail. Four of us led the pack of runners. It was fun chatting with the boys and keeping the pace nice and easy as the sun was coming up. The first 10 miles I did want to keep it pretty easy and then from there pick up my pace. Around mile 10, I was with another runner for a few miles and then found myself running alone from mile 20ish on. The pace felt easy, so I just kept at it. I noticed on my Garmin that I was holding it as the miles flew by.

David was able to meet me at quite a few places to hand off supplies. He was beyond amazing as usual. Some places on the course you actually got off the trail and ran through some towns before getting back on the trail at a different location. I don't like to think too much while running and it was awesome to have him there reminding me of where I was going through the towns.

Before I new it, I was at mile 47 ! I was running along and glanced over into the canal on my right. There he was--an alligator floating along the water! I stopped to watch him for a minute and then he went under the water again. I thought that was pretty cool! There were also tons of vultures in groups. They were huge and kept looking at me like I might be a good snack. Great Blue Herons were all over the place too--very gorgeous birds. Besides fisherman, birds, and alligators, you were pretty much alone for the majority of the race.

I was feeling really strong and then I saw the clouds move in. The winds picked up and it started raining. It was coming down really hard and the wind was blowing me around. After several miles, I came upon a check point and grabbed a rain coat from David. It was pretty miserable! It felt like I was standing still because of the wind. David told me the forecast said that the rain would stop by evening, so that is what kept me going. It was hard to keep a good pace at that point--my legs were now so tight and cold. Finally after 4 long hours of this rain and wind, it all stopped and the sun came out!

Luckily, I was able to pick it up again after warming up with the sun. I felt great again so I pushed it. I was at 75 and before I knew it, I was at the 90 mile mark. Hung-Kwong Ng was crewing with David a lot of the race and now decided to join me for the last 28 miles. We had a great time until we saw another alligator. This time, it was up on the grassy bank even closer to the trail! My headlight caught his eyes reflecting in the light. I grabbed Hung's arm and screamed! The gator ran back into the water thankfully! After that scare, we continued on a great pace. It was so funny because I noticed that we were both running very close to the left side of the trail. We only saw the alligators on the right side, so we both moved as far over left as we could! One last final scare as I spotted an alligator at mile 106 almost on the trail. I was about 8 feet from him and I again screamed! Poor guy got scared and ran down the bank!

We came upon David at one last check point. He told me we had a little over 4 miles left. Hung and I continued to push the pace. We would stop talking for a while so I could focus and get back into the zone! The night was beautifully clear and while we were silent, I looked up and saw a shooting star! Unbelievable!

I pushed it and felt great! We followed the arrow off the trail and into the campground parking lot where we started. We ran through this uneven, grassy, sandy area! With about 200 feet left, I fell into this sandy hole and Hung almost tripped on a metal pole! Luckily, we made it through okay. We saw headlights and pushed it in to the finish where David and race director Scott Maxwell were waiting!

I am really pleased with my efforts! I have the confidence now to really try to up my game in France! Thank to Scott Maxwell and all the volunteers for putting on a great race. Thank you Hung for being my gator shield and pacing me for 28 miles! Thank you Hammer for your awesome products that kept me feeling great the entire race. Thank you Drymax for your belief in me and your awesome Maximum Protection socks that laughed at the rain and kept my feet blister free (sorry no foot picture this time-I forgot on our way to the airport). Thank you David for being my guide around lake Okeechobee and always supporting me! Congrats to all the finishers and here is a link to the full results.
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LOST 118 Picture Recap

2010-02-28T12:35:00.000-08:00

I am back in Colorado now after a whirlwind--AMAZING weekend in Florida! I went to the LOST 118 so I could play with my pacing for the Worlds in May. It was a perfect place to do that and I finally realized that I can run at a faster pace for longer than I ever thought possible! After calculating splits today (faster than I thought yesterday), I ran a couple minutes over 15 hours for the 100 mile split and a 9:28/mile for the 118 mile race. We had relatively mild weather until it decided to rain (POUR) for 4 hours with 25 mph winds. Thankfully the sun came out to dry us off before night time.

With Badwater bud Hung-Kwong Ng. He offered to pace me from mile 90 to the finish! Thank you Hung! You saved me from those gators!

6:00am on Saturday at the start

At the finish with race director, Scott Maxwell. He put on a very well organized event.

Running on the asphalt section of the course.

Beautiful Lake Okeechobee at sunset Saturday.

David and I Friday on our way to the race. We stopped at Vero Beach where the Dodgers use to have spring training. David loves the Dodgers!

Here are my stats:

Mile--Time--Cumulative Pace
25.9---3:39---8.27 Min/Mile

49. 2---6:58---8.29 Min/Mile
58----- 8:15--- 8.32 Min/Mile
63.6--- 9:09--- 8.38 Min/Mile
68.9 ---10:10-- 8.51 Min/Mile
80----- 11:45-- 8.49 Min/Mile
91.1---- 13:25-- 8.50 Min/Mile
98.8---- 14:50-- 9.00 Min/Mile
108.9--- 16:50-- 9.16 Min/Mile
118----- 18:36--- 9.28 Min/Mile

Finish time: 18:36

Because of an early flight, I just now showered and haven't slept since the race! Race report will follow this week with alligator encounter stories!

LOST 118

2010-02-25T03:22:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, I am running the LOST 118 mile endurance run. The LOST (Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail Run) 118 is a flat, yet challenging circular course around Lake Okeechobee, Florida with 57 miles of asphalt and the rest dual-track roads.

My main reason for going is to practice my pacing for the World 24 hour championship. Like Rocky, I am going into it with no taper so that I can try to push my body when it is already tired. I think the course will be perfect and hopefully the weather too! The only thing I am a little worried about are the alligators! I guess they are all over that area! Apparently when being pursued by one, run zig-zagged because they will go in a straight line! No matter what, it will be a fun time around Lake Okeechobee!

USA World 24-Hour Team Announced

2010-02-23T18:09:00.000-08:00

Here's the press release about the 24-Hour team: INDIANAPOLIS - Six women and six women will compete for Team USA at the 2010 International Association of Ultrarunners' 24-hour Run World Championship, to be held in Brive, France on May 13-14, 2010. The roster was announced by USA Track & Field today. We have a fantastic team and I can't wait for May!

Women

Suzanna Bon, 45, Sonoma, CA. A mother of five children, Bon is a former elementary school teacher. She ran her first ultra in 2003 and has specialized in trail races, collecting numerous victories and course records. Her road ultra debut was a stunning 134.7-mile victory at the San Francisco 24 Hour Race in 2009.

Jamie Donaldson, 35, Littleton, CO. Donaldson is a middle school math teacher who has been the USA's top finisher at the 24-Hour Run World Championship the past two years, finishing fourth in 2009 world title race in Italy. She was runner-up to Kami Semick for Ultrarunning Magazine's Ultrarunner of the Year in those years and was a USATF athlete of the week in 2009. She is a two-time winner and women's course recordholder of the Badwater 135 mile race across Death Valley. She recently ran 21:01:28 to break the American track record for 200km.

Debra Horn, 50, Cleveland, OH. Horn is a partner in a Cleveland law firm who has rewritten age-group record books in ultrarunning. She recently broke the American Women's 50-54 age-group 12 Hour record with 72.96 miles. This will be Horn's fourth consecutive National 24-Hour Run team. In 2009 she was the #3 scorer on the U.S. Women's team that won the silver medal at the World 24-Hour in Italy, and she followed that with a bronze medal performance at the 2009 USA 24-Hour Run Championship. When not running or practicing law, Horn is a member of the Mayfield Curling Club's national champion team in the winter sport of curling.

Amy Palmiero Winters, 37, Hicksville, NY. The first amputee ever to be named to a USA national team, Palmiero Winters in 2009 won the "Race to the Future" on New Year's Eve, beating all able-bodied male and female finishers. Covering 130.04 miles in the 24-hour race, her performance qualified her for the national team. Palmiero Winters also won the women's division at the Heartland 100 Mile in October, earning USATF Athlete of the Week honors. She is a single mother of two who works as a youth fitness director, coach and motivational speaker. After a 1997 motorcycle accident and 27 surgeries, Palmiero Winters had her left leg amputated below the knee. She has subsequently become a single-leg below-the-knee amputee world record holder in over a dozen events (including the marathon and Ironman distance triathlon).

Jill Perry, 39, Manlius, NY. A relative newcomer to the sport of ultrarunning, Perry is a mother of five young children. She runs her own coaching service for running mothers when not training herself. Perry won the 2009 USA 24-Hour Run National Championship with 136.3 miles, moving into the top 10 all-time U.S. women. She is also the course record holder at the Umstead 100-mile in North Carolina.

Anna Piskorska, 37, Blandon, PA. A native of Gdansk, Poland, Piskorska became a U.S. citizen in 2006. She works for Occupational Health and Urgent Care in Reading, Pa. A runner for only 4 years, Piskorska quickly gravitated to ultra distances. She was women's silver medalist at the 2009 USA 24-Hour Championship with 132.6 miles.

Men

Serge Arbona, 45, Baltimore, MD. Arbona is a self-employed handyman and father of two. He has been running and winning ultramarathons for almost a decade, with a racing range from 50km to 6 days. In July 2009 he won the "20 in 24" 24-Hour Race in Philadelphia with a total of 146.28 miles. This is his first national team.

John Geesler, 51, St. Johnsville, NY. The 3-time USA 24-Hour Run Champion and 5-time national team member returns to the team as an athlete, following one year as team manager. Geesler is the Maintenance Supervisor at a textile mill and is the current 48-hour American Road Record Holder with 248 miles. Most recently, he was silver medalist at the 2009 USA 24-Hour Run National Championship.

Michael Henze, 40, Neenah, WI. Henze is the Plant Controller for a packing company, and is relatively new to ultrarunning. He once weighed over 300 pounds before taking up running and dropping over athird of his body weight. Since taking up long distances he has never finished worse than second in an ultramarathon race. In June, 2009, he won and broke the course record at the FANS 24-Hour with 147.41 miles.

Scott Jurek, 36, Seattle, WA. Jurek is a physical therapist and running coach who is best known for his unprecedented seven consecutive wins and course record at the prestigious Western States 100-mile Endurance Run over the Sierra Nevada mountains. He has also won the 135-mile Badwater Ultramarathon in Death Valley, the Hardrock 100 Mile Race in Colorado, and the classic 153-mile Spartathlon (from Athens to Sparta) in Greece, where his winning performance is still second only to that of the legendary multiple world record holder Yiannis Kouros. Jurek has been named a Running Hero by Runner's World magazine and three times was voted Ultrarunner of the Year by Ultrarunning magazine. He is prominently featured in the NY Times bestseller, Born to Run, by Christopher McDougall. This will be his first time as a member of the 24-Hour Run National Team.

Phil McCarthy, 41, New York, NY. McCarthy is a classically trained pianist, singer, and composer. He won the 2009 USA 24-Hour Run National Championship with 151.49 miles and he has a personal best over 154 miles, set in the 2007 World 24-Hour Run Championship where he led the USA team with a fourth-place individual finish. In 2008 he finished second in the invitational Surgeres 48 Hour Run in France with 235 miles. This will be McCarthy's fourth consecutive 24-Hour Run National Team.

Dan Rose, 33, Washington, D.C. Rose is a Special Event Coordinator for the Library of Congress. A cancer survivor, he began his running career following treatments at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston by running the Boston Marathon to raise funds for the institute. He makes his first national team by virtue of his third-place finish at the 2009 USA 24-Hour Run National Championship with 139.22 miles. In November, Rose ran the length of the hilly 142-mile Horse-Shoe Trail from Valley Forge, Pa., to just north of Harrisburg, Pa., in under 33 hours.

Yaktrax Product Review

2010-02-21T13:07:00.000-08:00

I got an email earlier in the year from Whitney with Yaktrax. She asked me if I wanted to try a pair and give them a product review. I was really excited to try them because I heard of a bunch of other ultrarunners who use them regularly. Being in Colorado, I thought that I could put them to good use.

Yaktrax are a traction device that helps you walk or run easier on snow and ice.

The are very light weight and fit over any shoe. This is what they look like right out of the box. They are rubber with metal coils and here's what it says on the box about them:

Yaktrax have a unique, spikeless, patented coil design, unlike other products on the market. The Yaktrax Pro will instantly give you better traction, confidence and safety on packed snow or ice. Move about naturally with the same solid grip that you are accustomed to on dry surfaces. Walk or run as you normally would and experience stability on ice and snow like you have never felt before.

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Made with high strength, abrasion resistant 1.4 mm steel coils and heavy duty natural rubber material, the Yaktrax Pro easily conforms to the shape of your boot or shoe. With its patented SkidLock coil design, the Yaktrax Pro provides 360 degrees of traction on packed snow and ice and can be worn in temperatures as low as -41° Fahrenheit.

It took no time at all to put them on my shoes. Once they are on, you don't even notice them. They do not restrict your foot and stay snug during the run because of the performance strap that goes over the top of the shoe. Here's a picture of the coils.

Here's what they look like on the shoes from the top. So, I wore them on my long run today. I went on a variety of terrains to really test them out in all conditions. I must say that I am really impressed! In just my running shoes, I am normally slipping along because of the snow and ice. Today there was ice under 3 inches of new snow and I moved quickly along my route with no slips. I even felt confident running down an icy hill ...one that I normally would have been very tentative on. They went on asphalt roads, packed fire road, and a semi-technical trail with no issues!

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I honestly forgot they were on because you don't feel them. Only when you feel that traction running through snow and ice do you remember they are there and they do not slip off your foot at all! If you no longer need them, you can quickly remove them. They are very light that you could carry them with no problem.
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You can buy them at Runner's Roost in Colorado or online if you are out of state. Thanks Whitney and Yaktrax for a chance to try them out. I can't believe I ran all those winters before without them! If you want to be able to run more confidently on snow and ice, give Yaktrax a try! I give them 2 thumbs up!

My Amazing Crew

2010-02-19T16:35:00.000-08:00

Wow...I thought yesterday's acceptance into Badwater was great. Today, was even better because I learned that my AMAZING crew of 2009 would ALL be back for another go at it! I think I am the luckiest girl in the world!

I can't tell you how important a great crew is at Badwater. My crew is like a well-oiled machine and I would argue the best one out there! They remember everything for me (nutrition, hydration, electrolytes, gear, race rules, etc.) so all I have to do is run! They put up with a lot too--the heat, the long days, and me! The 135 miles fly by with their support, fun, and amazing attitudes!

So, David, Connie, Rob, Eric, and Sean...THANK YOU for joining me again for another year! You are the BEST!!!!!!!!!!

Badwater Part 4

2010-02-18T19:50:00.001-08:00

Today is the official selection day of the Badwater Ultramarathon. I have been on pins and needles all day. Since I've been home from work, I have been hitting my send/receive button on my home email all night. Finally, it came at 8:32pm. It is now official! There will be a Badwater part 4!
Here's part of my official email:

Hello Badwater Ultramarathon applicant!
Congratulations! You have been accepted to compete in the 2010 Badwater Ultramarathon, presented by AdventureCORPS, Inc. You are part of a select group who will participate in what is recognized across the globe as the world's toughest footrace.

Congrats to everyone who got in! I am especially excited for Tony Portera who also got in! He's been working hard and is ready to rock the Mojave!

I don't know what it is about that race, but it is magical! I feel like a kid on Christmas right now! I can't wait to see what part 4 has in store for me! Badwater is an experience like no other!

Rocky Raccoon 100 Race Report

2010-02-09T15:08:00.000-08:00

Rocky Raccoon was everything I was hoping it to be plus more! I went into it a bit tentative--I was under trained in December due to some foot things and then I tried to cram train (which isn't too smart). My body was fragile going into Rocky, but it held up and made me excited for the racing year ahead! .

The weather was perfect for running! It had rained the whole week prior, but stopped in time for the course to be mostly dry and mud-free! I went into the race with a basic pacing plan. The course is five 20 mile loops, so I decided to try to be around 3 hours per loop. I had my Garmin 405 on, but in the thick of the trees, it was hard to figure out my pace. So, I just ran by feel trying to be between 9-9:30 minute miles.
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We started out in the dark at 6:00am on Saturday. The temperature felt mild to me so I only needed a long sleeved shirt. Right away, I found myself running with Connie Gardner and Liza Howard. I reminded myself to not worry about them--just my pace. They took off ahead and we played a bit of a yo-yo game for the first loop. I finished the first loop in about 2:47 which was much faster than I wanted to be, so I slowed down for loop 2.

Heading into loop 2, I had some awesome conversations with many runners. I love running with people and hearing their stories. Then I caught my foot on a root and fell hard. I smacked my head off of the ground and was a bit dizzy at first. I was frozen on the ground for a moment, but was able to shake it off and continue on. That reminded me that I was getting too comfortable with the conversations, so I need to keep my focus on the course and my pace.

David was at the next aid station with a new bottle for me and I told him the story. He probably thought that I would deteriorate quickly after that. I saw the look in his eyes, but luckily was able to return to normal and finish loop 2 in about 3:05.

Loop 3 is always very exciting because I knew it was my last one alone before I picked up my pacer. I really tried to push this loop because I wanted to get in as many miles before the sun went down. I finished this loop feeling strong about 20 minutes behind Liza, the lead woman. I don't know my time for the loop because my good old Garmin had enough and the battery died.

Loop 4 & 5, I ran the last 40 miles with Pete M. from Texas. He is running buds with Meredith. She was kind enough to set me up with him prior to the race. Pete is a great pacer--he didn't talk too much, tried to push the pace, and just let me do my thing. When we did talk, I found out that we have a lot in common. We both teach 6 & 7 grade math, so we had fun swapping stories. Pete is a fantastic pacer and a super fast runner himself! The last 40 miles really went by quickly. I really don't remember much except I didn't fall at all in the dark on loop 5 which is a small miracle after all the falling I did in 2009! I give credit to wearing TWO super bright Black Diamond headlights.

I do remember the last 8 miles because I got the worst hiccups, which is a first for me in a race! They were those deep ones that shake your entire body! It was actually kind of funny because we were running deep in the forest at night with nothing around and then you'd hear my obnoxious hiccups! Another reason Pete is a great pacer--he didn't complain! We got to the last aid station and Dave handed me my final bottle as I tried to finish strong.

I got to the finish in 16:54 only about 3 minutes off my time from last year which was good enough for 2nd female and 6th overall. Liza ran an incredible race and finished in a speedy time of 15:45. She is super nice and will be a factor at Western States this summer! I am please that I held up after the rocky start to my training for the year!
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David and I spent the rest on Saturday with Meredith, Paul, and Pete at our hotel. We had some amazing BBQ that Meredith brought from Austin. After that, we all passed out! Sunday morning, we were able to enjoy breakfast together again and my friend Tammy joined us before we all headed home. What a great weekend!

I want to thank my amazing husband, David, for all his support ALL the time! Thanks to Drymax for keeping my feet dry and blister free in the Maximum Protection socks. Thank you Hammer for fueling me (I love their new Huckleberry gel flavor). Thanks to Pete my pacer and Meredith & Paul for the pre and post race fun!

There is not a better way to spend a weekend! Results here.

Rocky Raccoon 100 Pictures

2010-02-08T17:53:00.000-08:00

The Rocky Raccoon 100 was another amazing day! I had a blast running, seeing old friends, making some new ones, and overall loving the experience! Enjoy the pictures--race report to follow!

Badwater Bud- Jonathan Gunderson and I playing chase all day.

The finish! 16:54!

I took a tumble on the second loop--hit my head hard too, but felt ok to keep running!

My amazing pacer Pete! He paced me 40 miles!

Meredith and I at the finish! She had an amazing day in the 50 and a HUGE PR!

Tammy and I--she had a PR in the 50 too! Unfortunately she is probably still stuck in TX. Flying back east is a challenge right now!

My Texas fire ant award and belt buckle!

Extremely dry and blister free feet thanks to my Drymax Maximum Protection Trail socks! Only 1 pair the entire race!

Ready for Rocky!

2010-02-04T19:50:00.000-08:00

It has been a busy week with parent teacher conferences in the evenings, but I got through them easily thinking about what I was in store for this weekend! David and I are heading to Huntsville, Texas again for the Rocky Raccoon 100. I made my final decision to go on Tuesday--wasn't sure because of a few pains from the gym's stair climber. But, I am excited to know that I'll be making the trip! I had a blast there last year and am looking forward to sharing the trails with over 700 people entered in all the races! Joe Prusaitis puts on an amazing event and I can't wait to have some time with friends, feel that racing feeling again, and just plain old run for a long time!

Endurance Planet Pod Cast

2010-01-26T15:09:00.000-08:00

Last week, I had the opportunity to talk with Kevin Patrick from Endurance Planet. This is a cool site that is all about endurance sports! Kevin is an ultra runner himself, so it is always fun to talk to people who understand the sport! If you want to listen to the interview click here.

Runners Roost Appearance

2010-01-25T19:25:00.000-08:00

This Saturday at 5:30pm, I'll be at the Runners Roost in Lakewood, CO with Gus from Drymax. Gus will be doing a sock demonstration and I will be doing an ultra running Q&A session. If you are near Lakewood, CO come on out for fun and Drymax freebies! I am excited to get to meet some more fellow Colorado runners! Thanks Sonya from Runners Roost for setting this up!

Also, a huge CONGRATULATIONS to everyone at the Brazil 135 this past weekend! Brian Krogmann rocked the challenging course coming in an impressive 3rd overall! Anthony Portera showed an amazing will to finish crossing the line in 53 hours! Congratulations!

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The Ghost Town 38.5 Race Report

2010-01-18T18:55:00.000-08:00

The Ghost Town 38.5 was an awesome event! It is definitely more than a race. The race director, Susan Reynolds, really makes it a whole experience with a Greek theme and amazing meals! It is really well organized with very helpful volunteers. In 2010, the race celebrated it's 5 year anniversary, Santa Fe celebrated being a city for 400 years, and it has been 2,500 years since the battle of Marathon.

Morrison exploring the beautiful Gila National Forest (near Hillsboro, NM) on Saturday

Me with about 8 miles left in the race.

This is the "running man" cactus David spotted while waiting for me to finish.

Hellenic dancers performed at the pre-race festivities

All finishers received chile ristras from Hatch, NM.

Happy feet (please excuse my chipped nail polish) after wearing Drymax Maximum Protection's prototype trail sock and no blisters!

Let me tell you, it was FANTASTIC to be running a race again! This race had a little bit of something for everyone. It is run on roads, fire trails, and more technical trails with flat sections, rolling sections, and downright steep parts. There was dirt, ice, snow, water, and rocks to nagivate over. For me 38.5 miles is really short--I secretly wished I could run the race twice! The week prior, I ran 164 miles (with 90 miles done last Saturday and Sunday), so I went into the race as purely a training run.

'I was trying to push out of my comfort zone during this race. It felt fast to me from the start, but I kept telling myself that this isn't a 100 and that I should feel uncomfortable. I remember looking at my Garmin at one point and I was running 7:10 miles (something that I am not used to doing in a race)! There were some out and back sections where I could see what was going on up front. It was great to see Nick Clark, AJW, and Pete Stevenson battle it out. I also saw the eventual women's winner, Rochelle Wirth. She is a 50K sensation in Minnesota and ran strong the entire way!

'I am very pleased with my efforts at the race after my high mileage week. I will be trying to throw in shorter races now and again so I can work on my turnover (even though I don't necessarily like to run fast)! What a great weekend!

Complete results will be posted here.

Off to the Ghost Town 38.5

2010-01-16T04:02:00.000-08:00

David, Morrison, and I are off to Southern New Mexico for the Ghost Town 38.5. One of the bonuses of being a teacher in my district is that we get MLK day off, so David and I thought it would be fun to check out this race. It startes on Sunday, so we'll also get time to see some of the area. It is early season and a short race for me, but looking forward to getting back to racing. I've read tons of great things about this race and how wonderful the race director is....you can camp on her property and they have a big pre-race party and then a post-race one too. Plus, I get to check off another state on my quest to run an ultra in every state. I can't wait to get out on this beautiful course! Have a great weekend everyone!
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The 2009 Votes Are In

2010-01-11T17:33:00.000-08:00

The votes for UROY are in! I am so excited and honored to be on the list with such amazing runners (and a bit surprised to be in 2nd)! There were so many incredible performances throughout the year!!! Congrats to a fantastic year of running Everybody!

Full results here.

High Hopes for 2010

2010-01-07T19:02:00.000-08:00

2009 was such a fantastic year! I feel so fortunate that I was able to go to more amazing places and meet such great people! I am forever thankful to my husband, friends, family, Drymax, and Hammer for making all of this possible for me. Some of my favorite highlights are: representing the USA in Italy and our team coming away with the silver medal, having the most fun at Badwater this year, running the 24-hour race in Ottawa with David, and returning to the Leadville 100 again. I am very pleased with my running last year, but am looking forward to turning things up a bit this year.

My main focuses for 2010 are (with other races sprinkled in):

-World 24-hour Race in Brive, France on May 13-14

-Badwater, July 12-13

-24 hour International Ultra Marathon in Taipei, Taiwan on December 11-12

My main goals this year are:

-Get to the TOP of Mt. Whitney

-Run 140 or more miles in 24-hours

-Break my Badwater record

After some additional time off, I am back ready to step it up again. I can't believe that the racing season will be starting very soon! Happy running in 2010 to Everybody!
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The Times Square Experience

2010-01-02T12:46:00.000-08:00

For New Year's we went to New York City for the Times Square experience. David's sister and her husband have always wanted to do it. We got in line around 4pm on the 31st. They corral you into the street and once a corral gets too full, no more people can get in. That is a great way to handle the large crowd. Once we were in, we had about 8 hours until the New Year. We had a prime spot, close to the stage where they did all the broadcasting. We were several blocks from the ball, but could see it perfectly from where we were.
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The time went pretty fast because they played music. Everyone was dancing and having a great time. They had performers too--we saw Jennifer Lopez, Daughtry, and a few others. The only problem is once you were in, you couldn't leave or you would lose your spot. So, we were careful not to drink a thing since there were no chances to get to a bathroom. Every hour they did a count down and told us how many hours were left. They passed out hats to just about everybody! You could feel the energy fill the air as it got close to the time! It was a great one-time experience!

Around 3:30pm in Times Square before we were in our corral.

In our corral around 8pm. You can see the ball in the distance.

There's the crystal ball!

Getting close to the New Year!

The ball has dropped! Fireworks shot everywhere!

Confetti came off the roofs! It was so neat!

Wet, but happy to ring in 2010 in NYC!

Ending 2009 with Family, Friends, and Fun

2010-01-02T12:19:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year Everyone! I am back from a 7 day whirl-wind trip visiting family and friends. Our first stop was Pennsylvania to see my parents, family, and some friends. Then it was off to New York to see David's family and ring in the New Year in the city! What a blast! Here are a few pictures from our adventures.

Over looking the Ohio River in Pittsburgh, PA with my parents.

Water boy and David enjoying matza ball soup at the Carnegie Deli in NYC.

On a brewery tour with part of my Badwater crew: Rob, Connie, David, and me.

Fathead's in Pittsburgh, PA with the family.

Outside the Ommegang Brewery near Cooperstown, NY. This is an authentic Belgium Brewery. They have a great tour!

In a sport's bar near my high school in Freeport, PA. They have my picture on the wall so I had to get out my old hoodie to wear there!

Joe and Vinny's pizza in New York with Dave's family.

The Church Brewery in Pittsburgh, PA with my parents. The altar houses all of the brewing equipment.

Playing pool with my 86 year old Grandpap. He beat me!

With my friend since kindergarten, Kelli, and her kid's Riley & Colton.

With Water Boy & Water Girl posing with the halfmoon cookie. It is a New York speciality--a chocolate cake-like cookie with yummy chocolate and vanilla frosting. Rob was talking about it while he was pacing me at Badwater this year so of course I had to try out one or two (sorry Meredith) for myself! It was well worth the calories and probably the best thing I EVER ate!

Pre-Holiday Fun

2009-12-20T08:30:00.000-08:00

So it is officially break! I can't believe I made it through last week! Trying to keep 11 and 12 year olds focused the week before break is tough! We had fun though! I turned the entire classroom into a restaurant with menus, table cloths, etc. We practiced working on taxes, tips, and discounts. They enjoyed it when I acted like their waitress. Then of course Friday was fraction/decimal/percent bingo! Can it get better than bingo??!!! We also had a lot of parties and get togethers.

Thursday night was David's "fancy" work party!

One of my students gave Morrison a bone. Big dogs like big bones you know!

Checking out a brewery in Littleton last night with friends Kevin and Susan. Susan is 7 months pregnant so this may be our last outing for awhile.

I am excited for lots of running this week! Then some traveling and great adventures ahead! I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday!

Corbitt, Prefontaine, & Philippides

2009-12-17T04:29:00.000-08:00

The language arts teacher at my school was doing a writing prompt with his students yesterday. He asked them if they could bring back to life and meet any 3 people who would you pick and why. Their response was: God, Einstein, and Elvis...now that would make for an interesting dinner party. He then asked the staff to put in their 3 picks. Here is my list:

Ted Corbitt was an American long-distance runner and an official of running organizations. Corbitt is often called "the father of long distance running." He was an ultramarathon pioneer, helping to revive interest in the sport in the United States in the 1960s and 70s.
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Steve Prefontaine was an American middle and long-distance runner. Prefontaine helped inspire the "running boom" in the 1970s along with contemporaries Frank Shorter and Bill Rodgers.
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Philippides-After his long race of Marathon to Athens, this soldier, name of Philippidès, died exhaustion while announcing to its fellow-countrymen the victory against the Persians.
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...

What 3 people would you like to bring back and why?

Runner's World: THE BEST OF RUNNING

2009-12-16T05:08:00.000-08:00

Runner's World Magazine came out with the Best of Running list. I was excited to see Badwater won for hardest race! See the full list here.

Who's the top distance runner in history? What are the truly must-run races? The tastiest energy bar? Here's a complete rundown of the most sublime aspects of our sport.By Peter Flax
From the December 2009 issue of Runner's World

Best Performance By an Underdog: BILLY MILLS
This Oglala Lakota Sioux from South Dakota (and U.S. Marine) came into the 1964 Olympics as a virtual unknown, but emerged a hero as the first American to triumph at 10,000 meters. After surviving surges by world record holder Ron Clarke of Australia, Tunisia's Mohamed Gammoudi, and other favorites, Mills sprinted past Clarke and Gammoudi to win in 28:24.4. That performance was an Olympic record—and almost 50 seconds faster than Mills's previous PR. If you've never watched the last two minutes of this thriller, you should pull it up on YouTube. Honor Roll Dick Beardsley's heroic second place in the 1982 Boston Marathon; Carlos Lopes winning the 1984 Olympic Marathon in record time two weeks after getting run over by a car

Ideal Runner's Food: BANANAS
Although a few of us feel that peanut butter actually increases our life force, all of us know that bananas are the Most Perfect Running Food. They come in a handy carrying case, they're darn tasty year-round, and they're packed with 500 milligrams of potassium to help prevent cramping, maintain fluid balance, even regulate your heartbeat. That's a lot of goodness for a few dimes.Honor Roll Peanut butter; pasta; coffee; Greek yogurt

Best Workout To Wind up Puking: MILE REPEATS
Long, hard track efforts do wonders for your VO2 max, but they can leave you in the pain cave. Afterward, if you're not doubled over, making faces like you just passed a kidney stone, you did something wrong. Honor Roll Hill repeats

Best Thing About Runners' Bodies: LEGS
Strength can be beautiful. To wit: shapely calves to power you up tough hills, lean hamstrings to help maintain your stride, and well-defined quads to descend with confidence. Honor Roll Hearts

Hardest Race: BADWATER
RW's own Bart Yasso can attest to the challenges posed by this 135-mile route that climbs 19,000 total feet from Death Valley to Whitney Portal. And to make things interesting, this takes place in July, in temps that can exceed 120F. Honor Roll Western States; Pikes Peak Hill Climb Reader's Choice Badwater; Pikes Peak; Comrades

Best Female Distance Runner Of All Time: GRETE WAITZ
Her streak still gives us goose bumps. Over an 11-year span, this classy Norwegian dominated all comers at the New York City Marathon nine times. She set world records in the marathon, the half, and on the track; won five world cross-country championships; and took silver in the first women's Olympic Marathon. Even as she's fighting cancer, she remains an unflagging ambassador for the sport. Honor Roll Paula Radcliffe; Joan Benoit Samuelson; Catherine Ndereba Reader's Choice Samuelson; Radcliffe; Waitz

Ratified

2009-12-15T15:21:00.001-08:00

Today I found out that my 200,000 meter track record was finally ratified at the USA Track & Field annual meeting! The race was at the end of September and it took that long to gather up the paper work. I had to have each of my laps recorded and initialed by every lap counter, certified measurements of the track had to be submitted, pictures of me running the race had to be submitted, some other paperwork from the race director, and my birth certificate! Finally after all of that, I am an official American Record holder in the track 200,000m ! Unbelievable!

Pacer Gift #1

2009-12-14T17:15:00.001-08:00

I was so excited to hear that my friend Meredith Terranova got a spot into Western States through the lottery. Right away we talked and decided that I would pace her on the second part. I am so excited to get on that course finally and see what it is all about. I am even more excited to have a blast helping my awesome friend achieve her goal. If you know Meredith you know that she would do anything for you. She is an awesome cook and will even send things in the mail that she makes! She warned me that I would be receiving pacer gifts! Morrison is modeling the first one (an inside joke shirt). Apparently more gifts are to follow like... "I have been training to be paced" gift and "you got me to the finish line without getting dropped" gift. I think she is a little off her rocker right now because the race isn't until the end of June! Oh well...Western States here we come!
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Catching Up

2009-12-13T15:28:00.001-08:00

Several of you have asked me why I haven't been posting. Honestly, I really haven't done anything recently that has been blog worthy! I have just been training hard and working! It feels good to finally get a solid block of training time in without any taper or recovery periods. It has been so cold here (below zero for several days straight), but this weekend warmed up to the 40's and it seriously felt like 80 degrees compared to what it had been!

Today my uncle, Randy, and his dog, Max, came over to watch the Bronco game. Then we took a walk on the Highline Canal.

Morrison enjoying a snow bath!

David and Morrison near our house on the walk today.

I am excited for the upcoming Holidays! One more week of school and then a nice long vacation begins (yes, being a teacher rocks)! We have some exciting running, family, and travel plans! I can't wait! How are you planning on spending your Holidays?

Lucifer's Gold

2009-12-06T08:03:00.000-08:00

My husband, David, is really into homebrewing! He has been doing it for over a year now and has gotten really good at it! His friend Travis comes over and they brew new batches such as a pumpkin stout for Thanksgiving. They heard about some homebrew competitions coming up, so they decided to work on a new batch. They made a Belgium Strong-Ale called Lucifer's Gold and entered it into the competition at the Dry Dock Brewing Company. The judging and awards were yesterday.
I am excited to say that out of 81 entries, David & Travis got 2nd in their Strong -Ale category! That is pretty awesome placement for being relative newbies at it! I was happy to be apart of their success! If David can sit and crew for me for hours upon hours at an ultra, I can drive him around to a few breweries now and then! Congratulations guys! Next up for them is the Belgians and Barleywines Competition in Vail in January!

On a side note...congratulations to Meredith Terranova for getting into Western Sates! She is super excited and deserves it! I am excited to be able to pace her the last half of the race!

My Midwest Feature

2009-11-29T15:25:00.001-08:00

My neighbor called me today and said she had some magazines for me. I didn't think anything of it as she brought me two My Midwest inflight magazines from Midwest Airlines. She said she about fell out of her seat when she saw it was me! I almost forgot about this article! Last July, I was contacted by reporters for the magazine saying that they were profiling a few athletes and the race and they wanted to include me.

This picture was the day before the race. I remember the photographer asking me if I was a rule breaker! He wanted me to stand on the salt fields where you really shouldn't stand. Here is a link to the article. Oh, I really miss Badwater!

Happy Birthday Meredith

2009-11-01T16:36:00.001-08:00

My super friend Meredith Terranova's birthday is this week so this post is for her. Meredith is unreal--a super fast ultra runner, a coach, a dietitian, wife, and friend! You name it, she does it all.

On one of her visits from Austin, Texas, Meredith made this recipe. It is giant couscous with cranberries and toasted almonds. It is very tasty, simple, and very versitile--it can be eaten hot or cold as a side or entree. You can add chicken too if you'd like. I took it for a pre-race meal on a plane once. I just froze a container of it and it kept until I was ready to eat it on the plane that evening.

I always love looking at food blogs for recipe ideas, so hopefully you'll enjoy this one. Here's what you do:
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1 box of giant couscous. Toast it in a pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Stir constantly.

Toast a handful of slivered raw almonds in your oven.

Add 2 cups of broth or water to the couscous.

Bring to a boil and then cover for about 10 minutes over medium heat.

Add the toasted almonds, a handful of dried cranberries and enjoy! Hot or cold it is yummy and low fat!

Besides making yummy recipes, I have finally been upping my miles after my much needed "break." It feels so good to have that achy feeling back again! I also am a guest speaker at a running group's banquet this coming weekend, so I have been working a lot on my talk. I can talk to 10,000 kids at once, but talking to 150 adults is going to be a lot different! Finally, I have my general racing schedule for the end of this year and most of 2010 ready. I feel kind of lost without a set goal, so I am excited with a plan! I am rested, motivated, and ready to rumble (trademarked by Sean) again!

Still Snowing!

2009-10-29T07:13:00.001-07:00

It has been snowing in Colorado for 2 days straight! We are on our second snow day and have about 2' of snow at my house! I am thankful that I have off again today, but feel bad because David doesn't get a snow day! It is expected to stop snowing sometime this evening.
Heavy wet snow on our pine trees!

Look at all the snow covering our patio table!

It is difficult for even a Newfoundland to get around in!

Snow Day in October

2009-10-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

There really is nothing finer for a teacher than a snow day! But, to have a snow day in October is unheard of! Sleep in on a Wednesday? Crazy! Clean the house on a Wednesday? Sweet! It has been snowing since last night and is supposed to continue till Thursday afternoon. All I can say is good thing I dusted off the treadmill because it is going to get a workout today!

Guess who is having a blast??

Morrison in motion!

Trusty Friend

2009-10-21T17:25:00.000-07:00

I have a very trusty friend, but sometimes I take him for granted! He waits and waits for months at a time in our cold dark basement hoping that I will come and visit, but it doesn't happen much until this time of year. I went down for a visit today and there he was covered in dust! I plugged him in and he was back to himself in no time! I am talking about my amazing treadmill--the ProForm 630.

This treadmill was one of my first major purchases as a working member of society! To make extra money during my first year of teaching (almost 12 years ago), I tutored individual kids every Tuesday and Thursday evenings at my house--not to mention a few times a week for the entire summer. I saved my tutoring money and bought that treadmill. Way back when, it was less than $1,000.

I frankly can't believe it is still going. They don't even make this model anymore! In all the years of abuse, I have never had ANY issues with it! It still has the same belt--the same everything! I run a lot on that thing in the winter when it is too icy, too snowy, or just too cold. Sure I prefer to be outside, but don't like to fall (have done that a lot) and don't like frostbite (have had that on my ears wearing a hat)! So, the best alternative is the treadmill!

The most I have run on it at once was 30 miles during a Colorado blizzard and it still keeps moving happily! So, I would highly recommend a ProForm treadmill if you are looking. They aren't the most expensive ones out there either! Don't let the price fool you--their quality is not compromised!
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Kapfers at the Can Lake 50k

2009-10-13T17:11:00.000-07:00

I am so proud of my sister-in-law Connie and brother-in-law Rob! They both ran the Can Lake 50k this weekend around Canandaigua Lake in New York! This was Rob's 2nd ultra and Connie's 1st (am I rubbing off on them?)!
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I loved the email I received from Connie about the race, "Anyway, I can say today it was a great experience...if you would have asked me during or after the race I would have said I never wanted to run that distance again, and that the race was pure torture...its amazing how quickly you forget the pain!"

Ahhh...ultra running! Congratulations Connie & Rob!
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A Whole New Watch

2009-10-12T05:59:00.000-07:00

I love my Garmin 405. I have had it for a couple years now and feel like I have finally figured it out. One thing I never liked about it though was it's wrist strap. My wrist is very small, so I have to make my own new holes with most watches to give a closer fit. With my Garmin 405, I couldn't do that. The strap was very rigid and didn't fit even on the smallest setting so it would move around considerably.

During the Leadville Trail 100 this year on my way to Winfield, my Garmin fell off onto the road. I noticed that the metal piece on the band came off and was long gone. So, I have been online looking for a replacement band. I found the same band and was going to buy it, but then I came across this:

Garmin Forerunner 405 Wrist Strap Kit is great for smaller wrists. Kit includes two comfortable hook/loop closure fabric straps, plus connectors and installation tools.

So, I ordered it and now the watch fits like a glove. It is so much more comfortable now and doesn't feel rigid! I LOVE it! It is a whole new watch!

Two Weeks = Too Soon

2009-10-11T07:58:00.000-07:00

I don't know what I was thinking! I thought I could do it! I live my life by the saying, "You are better than you think you are and can do more than you think you can!" Well, I truely believe in that saying, but I also have to be realistic and smart. I am not superwoman. Sure other ultra runners can compete and compete well just weeks apart from races, but apparently not this ultra runner.
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David, Morrison, and I drove the 8 hours to Wichita, Kansas on Friday afternoon. We checked into our pet-friendly hotel and went right to bed. The next morning we drove another 45 minutes to Cassoday, KS for the Heartland 100. We started promptly at 6am and boy was it cold! It was in the low 30's with crazy cold wind! So, I started with my plan--go out easy for the first 20 and then push as much as I could for the rest of the race. I felt good for the first 6. I was warming up and my body wanted to go. Then it was like my body revolted on me! Everything got SUPER tight! I thought it was maybe just the cold. I had pants on even, but had trouble moving my legs. I still really didn't think much of it.

I saw David at mile 16 for the first time. I didn't mention anything to him at that time because again, I thought this would pass. He looked so cold! He handed me electrolytes and his hands were shaking! The wind was absolutely relentless! So, I continued on. The course was on dirt roads going through very open prairies. There was nothing out there! You are pretty much alone in this race most of the time. As I continued on, my legs got worse. My right shin hurt and my groins--probably still from the 24-hour. Then my knees started. Wow did they hurt. I couldn't bend my legs because they hurt so badly, so I just shuffled along probably looking like a tin man!
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I met up with David again at mile 25 and I told him my problems. Always being optimistic, he told me that it would probably pass and to try and run till the next time I saw him. So, I did even though I knew that I should stop. The pain in my knees was horrible, but I ran on. I slowed down considerably and the cold wind felt even more unbearable! The next time I saw David was at 36.5--at 6:55. That was almost 1.5 off from where I wanted to be and I knew things would only get slower for me since the pain in my knees continued on stronger. So, I called it a day.

I don't regret stopping early because it was what was best for me. I ran 133 miles in 24-hours two weeks prior and there was no way my body was ready. I was afraid if I continued that I could have permanent repercussions in form of an injury and that wasn't worth it. What I do regret is wasting David's time driving all that way and crewing for me. I also feel bad about taking a spot from possibly another runner who would have finished.
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Two weeks between long races for me is too soon. I just wish I would have realized that before we left for Kansas. Lesson learned the hard way. Now, it is time for me to give my body a break!

Our First Snow!

2009-10-08T15:27:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is snowing on October 8th! Morrison is going nuts! He is running around the yard like a crazy man in our half inch of snow! This is his kind of weather! When I looked at Cassoday, Kansas weather for the 100 this weekend, it said:

Saturday: Partly cloudy skies early. A few showers developing later in the day. Cold. High near 45F. Winds N at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 30%.

That forecast doesn't excite me! I am a desert girl! Sauna anyone?? Oh well, I better toughen up and enjoy it like our Newfoundland!

Heading to Heartland

2009-10-06T18:42:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I will be running in the Heartland 100 in Cassoday, Kansas. I know what you are thinking--you just ran a 24 hour race less than 2 weeks ago! This is true, but Heartland has been a race I have really wanted to do for sometime now. It is within driving distance for us too which means the whole family can go :)! I am trying to get my body used to running races when I am tired so I can possibly work up to the grand slam someday soon! Should be a great weekend as long as the weather holds--it is supposed to snow in Denver Sunday!

Congrats to all the runners in the Cleveland 24 Hours! Some impressive performances there! Big congratulations to Debbie Horn for breaking the American 12 Hour Record in her age group and Dan Rose for exceeding his 135 miles to make the National Team !

Self-Transcendence 24-Hour Race Report

2009-10-01T18:17:00.001-07:00

David after his 75 miles!

David and I arrived in Ottawa, Canada around 10:30 pm on Friday night. Luckily, our hotel was close to the airport and the race. We checked in, briefly organized supplies, and got to bed right away. The race didn't start until 8am, so it was a lot more relaxed in the morning. I was able to get to sleep right away which was nice because morning came quickly.

After we got to the venue, we checked in and met our first lap counter, Sanchita. She told us she would be counting David and my laps. They were very organized--you received a bib with your name on and it was color coated. The color corresponded to the lap counter! Then, we set up our pop-up tent on the infield. We brought the tent just in case one of us needed to take a nap. I was really hoping David would be enticed every time he ran by and then jump in! Time flew because before I knew it, we were lining up at the start! David & I wished each other well and we were off! I guess it was good that I never really got to internalize what I was about to do!

I started really slow. I think most of the 30 people were ahead of me, but I didn't even think about them! I just got into my groove and ran. I remember this one guy was running so fast! He was yelling "track" so we would get out of the inside lane. For a moment, I thought maybe he was in a 5k! He was flying. I just kept pace and wondered how long he would go!

The first time I lapped David was awesome! I remember laughing because it was so funny to see him out there again! I decided that every time I ran past him, I would make a "whu-whu" sound effect. He would laugh every time I did that! One time he told me the sounds were getting old. I told him that lapping him was getting old! HA!

I focused my race in hour hunks. I concentrated on getting my correct fueling and electrolytes every hour. I also allowed myself one bathroom stop per hour. Then I would do a few quick stretches and be off again. I had it down and before long, 8 hours had passed and we were changing directions again!

They had a leader board up, so it was great to see where I was in the rankings. Early on, I was running in 3rd behind Laurie and Theresa McGrath. They are sisters-in-law and completely awesome. I am so glad I had a chance to meet them and their family. We would chat a bit every time we were near.

To be honest, time flew in my mind. I thought the hours would drag on, but they didn't. I really don't remember much but being in this groove and moving along. I knew I was near mile 100 at this point and felt unbelievable. My lap counters were amazing at keeping me informed. I was hoping for a fast 100 time so I pushed onward. The race directors went over to the 100 mile mark on the track and officially clocked me at 16:07. Then they handed me a flag to run the next lap with that said 100 miles! That was pretty neat!

Soon afterwards, the race director told me that the 200k American record was in my reach as long as I kept my pace up. He actually figured out what I had to run each remaining lap in and would yell out my time every lap. He was amazing! Then he even asked other runners to clear the inside lane so I wouldn't have to run around them as to not waste energy in case it would be close. I really didn't want to be within seconds of the record either way, so I dug. I dug really deep and before I knew it, I was running at a fast clip. I felt like I was back in the 10,000 at PSU! I could feel the excitement in the air, I felt separated from my body as I continued to push! I remember hearing that I had 12 laps left, then 2, then I was on my last one. I was on that final lap and knew what I was about to do. It was hard to breath because I was pushing so hard and feeling pretty worked up! I crossed that line as the director announced what I had done! David was there and he gave me a big kiss. They handed me a big red flag to run around the track with! Wow, what a feeling!

After that lap, I went into the bathroom and splashed some water on my face. Then it hit me--I was completely light headed and felt like puking. I knew I had to get back out there for my remaining 3 hours. So, I started running again, but it was very slow. My body was spent. It thought it was done after all that sprinting! I stopped to puke in a garbage can along the track for about 5 minutes. My head was dizzy. I knew I just had to find my steady gear again and focus. So, I ran slowly for the next hour.

David informed me he was doing 2 more laps and was finished. I couldn't believe he had gone for 22 hours! Talk about someone being totally inspiring to me! I couldn't have been prouder! He finished and told the officials and they all clapped for him. His drive and determination is unbelievable!

The last 2 hours got slower and rougher for me. But, I kept moving. I spent time talking with the other runners and enjoying the moment. A first for me--I had a cup on hot chocolate on one of those laps! Everyone was so incredibly nice! I laughed every time I passed our tent because I knew David was long asleep! With minutes left, they handed us sandbags with our name on. When we heard the horn, the race was over and we were to drop our bag. When I stopped, I think my body was leery. Maybe I would start running again?? No, not this time, it was officially over.

What an amazing event with amazing people! Thanks to all the race staff, volunteers, and amazing people I met! Thank you Drymax for a blister free 24-hours and an awesome new jacket! Thanks Hammer for constantly fueling me! Thank you David for continuing to inspire me! Results here!

I want to wish everybody GOOD LUCK this weekend at the Cleveland National Championships! I will be cheering you on!

USA Track & Field Athlete of the Week

2009-09-30T18:10:00.000-07:00

I just got word that I was named USA Track & Field athlete of the week! Wow! It is so great to see ultra running recognized!

Donaldson named Athlete of the Week
09-30-2009

INDIANAPOLIS - Jamie Donaldson (Littleton, Colo.) has been named USA Track & Field's Athlete of the Week after setting an American record in the women's 200,000 meters over the weekend at the 28th Annual Ottawa International 24 Hour Self-Transcendence Race and Masters' 24 Hour Championship in Canada.

The fifth-place finisher at the 2008 24 Hr World Championships, Donaldson destroyed the 18-year old American record by completing 200,000m on the track in 21 hours 1 minute 28 seconds en route to running 214.487 km in 24 hours. The previous record of 21:08:47 was set by Sue Ellen Trapp in 1991. As the overall winner, Donaldson ended her 24 hour run in dominating fashion, as her next closest competitor, runner-up Andrew McLean of Ontario, ran 202.943 km.
Now in its eighth year, USATF's Athlete of the Week program is designed to recognize outstanding performers at all levels of the sport. USATF names a new honoree each week and features the athlete on the USATF website. Selections are based on top performances and results from the previous week.

Winners: January 6, Mason Finley; January 13, Amber Campbell; January 20, Josh Cox; January 27, German Fernandez; February 3, Ashton Eaton; February 10, Shalane Flanagan; February 17, Galen Rupp; February 24, Dexter Faulk; March 3, Terrence Trammell; March 10, Diana Pickler; March 17, Galen Rupp; March 24, Sumi Onodera-Leonard; March 31, German Fernandez; April 7, Cyrus Hostetler; April 14, Curtis Beach; April 21, Kara Goucher; April 28, Mason Finley; May 5, Chris Derrick; May 12, Natalie Willer; May 19, Will Claye; May 26, Nadine O'Connor; June 2, Tyson Gay; June 9, Dwight Phillips; June 16, Galen Rupp; June 23, Kami Semick; June 30, Dawn Harper; July 7, Raevyn Rogers; July 14, Ryan Crouser; July 28, Anton Krupicka; August 11, Rita Hanscom; August 19, Christian Cantwell; August 26, Trey Hardee; September 1, Dathan Ritzenhein; September 9, Sanya Richards; September 15, Carmelita Jeter; September 23, Tyson Gay; Jamie Donaldson.

Successes at the Self-Transcendence 24 Hour and a New American Record

2009-09-28T10:57:00.000-07:00

A quick recap from our Self-Transcendence 24-Hour race in Ottawa, Canada this weekend. This was the 28th running of the race and was one of the most organized races I have run. From the race staff, lap counters, volunteers, and added touches, they really knew what they were doing! More details about this will follow, but I wanted to show my appreciation for a well run event!

All joking aside with David's comeback race, we committed to run this race in March well before the National Championship race in Cleveland was announced. That would have been my pick (so I could see so many of my wonderful friends and teammates), but this race was David's choice. The track 24 hour is ideal for both of us to participate as well as for David to crew for me simultaneously.

Briefly about the race...

I had a great race and couldn't be more pleased with the results. I ran the first 50 miles with Canada's top ultra-marathoner, Laurie McGrath, pushing me all the way. My 50 mile split was 7:40. I kept pushing on and hit the 100km at 9:36 and had my PR in the 100 mile coming through in 16:07 (I was pretty pleased with my time through here knowing that was a split in a 24-hour race).

At this point, the race directors let me know that the 200km (124.27 miles) American Record was in my reach if only I pushed it for the next 10km. I had a choice to make...stay steady to rack up as many miles as possible or turn it on and go for the record. I felt strong and thought this was a once in a life time opportunity. Between 190km and 200km, I ran the fastest 10km that I have run since being an ultra runner. I was able to find another gear that I didn't know I had and came through the 200km in 21:01:22 surpassing Sue Ellen Trapp's 18 year American 200km Record of 21:08:47 (it will be official after proper certification paperwork is completed).

David had an amazing race. He finished with a PR of 75 miles and won our bet. Although I lapped him 234 times, that was 4 laps short of the spread. He was stricken with extreme fatigue at 22 hours into the race and called it a day. I guess the 2 week taper since the Teton Marathon and the Great American Beer Fest last Thursday contributed to this. I am not sure what I'll have to do for losing the bet, but I am not really too concerned--how bad can it be :)! ???

After I gave it my all for the 200km record, I had a hard time keeping it together for the last 3 hours: I was extremely light headed, puked a lot, and was really tight which made it hard to move quickly. It was all worth it though for an American Record. I managed to finish those last hours slowly and ended up with 133.28 miles which put me in first overall (male or female) with a new course record that has been standing since 1984. The awards were pretty amazing...one for overall win, one for most consistent 50 mile/100 mile split, and one for rookie of the year!

Full race report to come. I even heard a rumor that David was going to do a "guest" blog posting! Thanks for all the comments and support!

David's Comeback Race

2009-09-22T04:07:00.000-07:00

September 26th, 2009 will be David's official comeback! We will compete in the Self-Transcendence 24-Hour Race in Ottawa, Canada. David's accident in June, 2008 put him on the DL for a bit, but he is ready to return to the ultra world! He is the defending age group National Champion in the 24-hour event, so he wanted to pick his comeback race carefully. If you remember he got a plaque in the mail after the Ultra Centric and his 72 miles in 24-hours. Apparently they had National Champion accidentally printed on all the plaques, and he BELIEVES he is the champ! After weighing his options, he figured the Ottawa race would be best place to get a PR. Why, because it is on a 400-meter track! Not my ideal choice, but any loop is practice for the 24-Hour World Championships in May.
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To keep things interesting when we both run 24-hour races, we like to have a bet. This time (because I am supposed to still feel bad for David because of his fall), I have to beat him by 59 miles (59 mi. = 94.9512 km). If I beat David by 59 miles or more, I win. If I beat him by less than 59 miles, he wins! I know that is a ridiculous distance, but again it is his comeback race and I still have sympathy!

The problem is, we can't decide what the loser should do. If you have any suggestions, we'd love to hear them! The winner will chose from your comments and the loser will do it! Also, we'd love to hear your mileage predictions (David's 24-hour pr=72 miles, Jamie's 24-hour pr=137 miles)Thanks for your help!

Ode to the 24-Hour Run

2009-09-19T10:25:00.000-07:00

Can you feel it? It is 24-Hour racing season! There are so many 24-hour races coming up: The Ottawa 24-Hour is at the end of September and in October we have, The Double Dirty Dozen, 24-Hours of Boulder, the San Francisco 24-Hour, and the Cleveland 24 Hour. That's a lot of running!

One of my favorite running books, "Ultramarathon" by James Shapiro, does an amazing job of capturing the 24-hour race in just the first chapter of the book. Sports Illustrated actually printed a recap of the entire first chapter of the book and you can read it here. The book was printed in the 80's and very few copies are still out there. My sweet David got me the book for my birthday and is a must read for any ultra runner!

Here are some of my favorite lines/quotes from just the first chapter by James Shapiro:

I felt remarkably calm for someone about to set off on a 24-hour run around a 400-meter track in the company of some other lunatics, in an attempt to see how many miles we could cram into our allotted time.

During 24 hours, a thousands things can go wrong.

Go easy. Go relaxed. Save energy. Ignore the world. Forget the deep habit of every runner who loves to race which makes you yearn to close up on the pair of heels in front.
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The 24-hour is a special monster. It requires obedience to special laws or it would flatten the runner as indifferently as a hippo flopping down on a blade of grass.
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You get it done by doing it.
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I am in one of the worst hours or running I have ever endured. In some odd way, I am losing my nerve. But my memory comes to my aid and I remember other times. These things happen, and you get through them after a while. Bad patches don't go on forever.

It is not pain I feel but sinking. My involvement with the world grows dimmer. It occurs to me that it would be nice to keel over. A barely audible whisper says it would be a way out. It seems almost impossible to bother any more...but I do.

Ending the race is just the beginning. The body claims its due and, for now, only rest and healing matter. After the hunt, I shall be licking my wounds, waiting until driven by hunger to go out again on the long chase.

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Go Sheridan!

2009-09-14T17:42:00.000-07:00

My Team's first cross country meet was this past Saturday. Because they are in middle school, their course is shorter than the high school. For this particular race, they ran approximately 1.5 miles. It is so much fun to watch them progress throughout the season! Everyday, they remind me how important it is to have fun while working hard. So, we incorporate some kind of running game into our practices daily. Try playing running duck-duck-goose with fast middle schoolers-they'll give you a run for your money!
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Grand Tetons Pacing & Racing

2009-09-11T18:06:00.000-07:00

Like I said earlier, last weekend was tons of fun at the Grand Tetons Races in Alta, WY. Lisa and Jay put on amazing, family friendly events for the whole family! There is a 10k, a 100, a 50, a marathon, and a kid's race! Everything is well organized and the way the course is designed, crewing is very easy. So, David, Morrison, and I left work last Friday afternoon for our 9.5 hour drive. About 1:30 am, we rolled into Alta and pulled over along the road for a nap before the start of the hundred. At 5am, we went to the starting area at the Grand Targhee Resort to meet up with Ashley Nordell for any final crewing instructions. She seemed very relaxed and before long, we were at the starting line and they were off.

I didn't think it would be, but just watching/crewing a race was really hard for me! My competitive juices wanted to run the race even though my heavy Leadville legs said no! Before long, it was time for me to pace. I started with Ashley at mile 50 and ran through 75. Wow, was it fun! She had no problem keeping on her pace! She was very strong even though she battled through stomach issues most of the way! She built up her lead and was running comfortably as 1st women. I remember her asking me if I thought she would break 24-hours. I did the calculations and told her she would! She was very happy and I think that fueled her on! After we got through 75 miles, Ashley continued on with Jim (whose runner dropped) and he took her the last 25. David and I headed back to our cabin for a couple hours of sleep before our marathon. When we got up for the marathon, we received a call from Sean Meissner (who had a great finish in the 50) saying that Ashley finished and smashed the course record in 23:03! I was so excited that she got her goal!

Before long, David and I were back for the marathon start. When we started, I felt all the juices run out of my legs. I had absolutely no energy. Maybe it was the lack of sleep. Maybe it was because I didn't eat much the day before. Maybe it was feeling the Leadville 100 still. Maybe it was how BIG Fred's Mountain was. I don't know, but it wasn't pretty. People were passing me as I was going up the mountain like I was standing still. Then my worst nightmare played out...there was David. He was right behind me! How could it be--someone who barely runs is almost passing me up the mountain??? So, I turned it on even though my legs had no energy. Finally, I was at the top of the mountain. I grabbed 2 Hammer gels and took off running down. I started to feel good again and picked off quite a few people. David didn't get me at least, but was less than an hour behind me!! First place in the husband and wife division isn't too shabby!

The rest of Sunday was spent with amazing friends--thanks Ellen (amazing 2nd place in the 100 in her first 100), Sean, Bryon, Ginette, Anthony, and Ashley! How can you beat roasting marshmallows at a bond fire in the Tetons? And boy was it a bond fire--thanks Bryon! Ellen, thanks for the chocolate!

Next up...David's comeback 24-hour race! It's gonna be good! He's actually been doing more than visualizing--he's been running! Stay tuned because there is a bet involved!

Grand Adventures in the Tetons

2009-09-08T16:24:00.000-07:00

Wow! This weekend was absolutely amazing--great friends & great running in the beautiful Grand Tetons! I couldn't ask for more fun! Pacing report and race report to come after I get some rest!

The Grand Tetons

At dinner with the clan on Sunday night

Celebrating successes Sunday evening

David, Anthony P, Steve, and Sean before the 50 start

Ashley relaxed before the 100 start

Sean at the 50 finish...are you gonna???

Pacing Ashley during the 100! She was so strong and upbeat the entire way!

Anthony & Dusty ran the 50 on Saturday and the trail marathon on Sunday!

David & I did it! After little sleep, pacing, and crewing, we pulled out a victory in the husband/wife division of the trail marathon! So there were only 3 couples entered, but we did it!

Me running down Fred's Mountain in the trail marathon

David soon after trying to catch me!

David & I relaxed at the start of the marathon

More Leadville Trail 100 Photos

2009-09-01T06:37:00.000-07:00

Me with Kevin N. and Crew Chief David at the pre-race meeting.

No it is not time for trick-or-treaters...this is Kevin N.'s drop BOX for the race! Yes, that was a 24 piece of original recipe chicken from KFC. He was trying to be good so he skipped the extra crispy!

Morrison and I on an ATV scouting out the new course on Friday!

David and Morrison waiting patiently at Winfield trying to keep cool!

Colorado Runner

2009-08-31T18:03:00.001-07:00

I was very surprised and honored to see the cover of the September/October issue of Colorado Runner Magazine!
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Derek Griffiths does an amazing job of keeping CO athletes up-to-date with race recaps and results, event guides, features on shoes, nutrition, etc. It is a very complete magazine for runners of all distances fast and slow. If you don't already subscribe to the magazine you can here. Happy reading & running!

Leadville Trail 100 Race Report

2009-08-27T18:52:00.000-07:00

The Leadville Trail 100 was another great adventure! I really wasn't sure if I'd run it being so close to Badwater, but I gave it a shot because my legs felt rested. It was a roller coaster day, but in the end I am very happy with my efforts!

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David, Morrison, and I got to Leadville Thursday night after work. We went to the check in and spaghetti dinner. It was nice to hang out with old friends again. Then we met up with Kevin Neadeau and his crew at his cabin. Kevin made a huge campfire and we all sat around making smores. I passed on the smores (are you proud Mer), but did roast a marshmallow! It was so relaxing that I almost forgot that I was there to race!

We all slept in on Friday and headed to the pre-race weigh in. There I got to meet up with Meredith Terranova. Mer was just visiting because she was starting the Trans Rockies race that Sunday. After the meeting, we went back to Kevin's and rode ATV's around on parts of the course! It was so much fun that I forgot I was there to race. Soon reality set in and I organized race supplies, ate dinner, and was off to bed very early.

2:30 am came quickly! I was up and surprisingly calm. When we got back into town, we stayed in the car for awhile to keep warm and then headed the start. I was definitely nervous and very excited at this time. The start is very magical--almost 500 runners toe the line! There is so much energy in the air that you can feel it! I hugged David good-bye and it was then time to focus and remember my race plan.

We were sent into the darkness at 4am. I remember thinking about keeping my 9:30-10:00 minute per mile pace. That is so hard to do with all the excitement of the start, but I always tell myself that it is 100 miles! It is very crowded, but I just ran my pace actually slowing myself down several times. My goal was to get to May Queen in about 2 hours. One of my favorite parts of the race is on the path around Turquoise Lake. I love looking back to see all the lights running around the lake--it is beautiful! Before I knew it, I was at May Queen right on pace. I was greeted by David and Morrison. I think at that time, I was running in 3rd place for the ladies. I felt good, and really didn't want to think about my place--I had a lot of time to worry about that later!

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I continued on feeling really strong while still trying to hold my pace back. The sun was coming up now and I was over Sugar Loaf and down into Fish Hatchery. Along the road to the Fish Hatchery, I saw this sign with a burro on it. It was in front of a house near a field of burros. It said, "Go Jamie, run like a girl, run like Sabina and Mortiky!" I ran right up to it in surprise...I guess it had to be for me! It definitely brightened my day. I think it was from the awesome girl who I "ran" the burro race with! Into Fish Hatchery, David told me that my pace was too fast and I needed to slow it down. That was hard for me because the next section was on roads leading to the trail. For some reason on roads, my body just wants to go fast! I forced myself to stay on pace. The sun was out and the road was exposed. It was a record high in Leadville--our car said 81!

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I was running along in 3rd until mile 30. Here I started to feel really queasy! Right after the aid station, I was strickened with severe cramps. I couldn't stand upright because they were so painful. Then I puked every ounce of fluid out of my body. A runner ran by me as this was happening and asked me if I needed anything--maybe a new stomach, but I don't think he had one to spare. At this point I wasn't worried because I thought I could just fuel up again and be fine, but I couldn't shake those cramps. I had to walk off and on, hunch over into a ball, and puke constantly in the next 5 miles. At the point, Lynette passed me. She offered words of encouragement along with numerous other runners. One guy told me I was white as a ghost! Finally, I forced myself to run. I was totally out of water and still had severe cramps, but pushed on. It felt like forever, but finally I reached Twin Lakes.

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I could tell David was concerned because I was was off my pace at this point. I fueled up again, grabbed 2 water bottles for the trek up Hope Pass, and was off. Unfortunately, I didn't get very far. The cramps were the worst they had been and I couldn't even walk at this point. I stopped and hunched over for 10+ minutes as my crew gave me every type of stomach product out there. At this point I was in 4th place, but couldn't do anything about it!

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I started to walk again, crossed through the river (it felt amazing), and headed up Hope. Here I started to feel better. I power walked most of the way and got a glimpse of the 4th place girl. Before long, I was at the Hopeless Aid Station. I love those llamas in the fields! I hustled through and ran a bit so I could catch her. On the switchbacks up, I got very close to her. At the top, I turned it on and passed her soon after. I pushed it all the way down. I saw many amazing people on their way back up! It is very motivating to see everybody!

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In 3rd place, I hit the road into Winfield. I tried to run most of it waiting to see the lead women. There they were--I saw Darcy first and soon after there was Lynette. I hit 50 miles in 9:54, hustled through the aid station, and picked up my first pacer, Eric Lee. Eric was fantastic. He muled for me! Leadville is one of the only races that allows pacers to mule. He had everything--my water bottles, poles, gels, and rain coat! He pushed me along the road and soon we were ready to get back over Hope Pass.

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I was very slow here. My stomach still wasn't settled and I still felt weak from all the puking. Eric kept me moving and soon we were in a good rhythm. Before long, we were at the top. He asked me if I was ready to run. Boy was I ready--I spent a lot of time walking to get my stomach back. It was time. So, he led me down Hope. I was finally moving at a fast clip. I noticed we were picking off a lot of people. Then I saw Darcy ahead. We cruised past her wishing her well and continued on feeling great! Now in 2nd, I was feeling great and very motivated to keep moving up!

In the next miles, I was off and on again with my stomach issues. I just couldn't seem to get it feeling right. When it felt better, I would push it. When it didn't, I spent a lot of time hunched over which cost me valuable minutes. Soon, we were back at the Fish Hatchery and it was time for me to pick up my last pacer, Tressa Breindel. Tressa is great! She practices Chinese Medicine and was using my pressure points to try and alleviate my stomach issues all while keeping me going. We headed up the Power Lines in the darkness. Here was another bad spot for me--I was so slow and had another huge puking episode. I felt weak and a bit dizzy, tried to refuel, but was having trouble keeping anything down. After forever, we were ready to run down into May Queen. When we got there, I realized that I lost way too much time on Lynette and now it was going to be a battle for 2nd because Darcy was coming on strong.

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Tressa and I came to the boat ramp and knew we only had about 6 miles left. There, David, Morrison, and Mer waited to send me positive finishing vibes! In my past Leadvilles, I would pick David up here and he would run with me to the finish. Not this year...he was worried about keeping my pace going so I could keep second place while possibly breaking 22 hours. So, Tressa and I continued on up the boulevard. We were so close and tried to run every step. I looked back and saw a light. That was not a good feeling. I knew it was probably Darcy and so did Tressa, so she kept me running. The light wasn't getting any closer, but it was still there!

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Then we were about a quarter mile from the finish heading up 6th street and now could see the red flashing traffic light that is ever present. We could hear the cheers. I looked back and the light was coming, so Tressa and I pushed hard, and then we crossed the line. We did it--broke 22 hours and finished 2nd female! We watched as Darcy crossed the line about 2 minutes later. Wow, that was close!

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Congratulations to all the runners! It was so energizing to see everyone out there! Thanks Drymax for keeping my feet blister free even through the river. Thanks to my pacers, Eric and Tressa--you were amazing. Thanks to David (Crew Chief) for being so supportive all day long! Thank you Kevin Sullivan for the video clip of my descent into Winfield. I am extremely proud of my efforts on this day. Sure, it probably would have been easier to quit at Twin Lakes when I couldn't even stand upright. Instead, I did what I could do on that given day and that's good enough for me!

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We are off to the Grand Tetons 100 next weekend! I am excited to pace Ashley Nordell and visit with some amazing friends (Sean...may I borrow your skirt?)! Then, it is already time for David's comeback race--more details to follow!

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Leadville Trail 100 Pictures

2009-08-24T19:07:00.000-07:00

There is the old saying about a cat having 9 lives...well, I am not a cat, but used about 5 of my lives during the 2009 Leadville Trail 100! It was such an up and down race for me starting at about mile 30, but knowing it would get better (bad again and better, repeat), I was able to proudly finish second female in 21:53! That was about a hour and a half PR for me (see results here)!

The start...around 500 runners toed the line at 4am on Saturday. Can't you just feel the energy from that picture????

Running down into Twin Lakes--about mile 40ish.

With my rock star pacer Eric Lee!

At the finish with Tressa Breindel..not only can she pace, but wears a tu-tu too!

At the finish with amazing Darcy Africa...I saw her light..she was coming hard for me...just made it in with 2 minutes to spare!

Crew Chief and me at my 3rd LT100 finish!

Thank you everybody (runners and crews) who encouraged me to keep going while I was balled up on the trail with major stomach cramping and nausea. I can't believe it, but feel amazing today! My students didn't even think I raced because I walked around normal today! I couldn't be happier with the outcome and boy was it great to be back to where it all began! Race Report to come this week.

Leadville Trail 100 Pictures

2009-08-23T16:59:00.000-07:00

Back To Where It All Began

2009-08-17T19:25:00.000-07:00

It is official...I am running in the 2009 Leadville Trail 100 next weekend! I am so excited because I am going back to where it all began for me! My first 100 ever was there in 2005. I fell in love with ultrarunning there and can't wait to return! I ran it again in 2006, but haven't returned since due to Badwater recovery. Sure I am not 100%, but I am going to give it my all and enjoy what I love doing! I can't wait to see a lot of you on the trail! Enjoy the few pictures I dug up from my previous Leadvilles.

Me and the LT100 race directors in 2006 at the awards ceremony

My brother-in-law Steve pacing me in 2006 in the LT100

Me in my 1st 100 ever in 2005 at the LT100

David was cheering me on from the very first one in 2005!

Not moving too fast, but so close to the end of my first 100 with my pacer September!

Leadville Pack Burro Race Video

2009-08-10T19:43:00.000-07:00

Here it is...the video of my first pack burro race with Sabina! I love listening to David and my friend's Susan and Kevin laugh at my effort! Enjoy and please don't laugh too hard at the finish!

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95-5

2009-08-09T19:19:00.000-07:00

Mortiky & Sabina down the home stretch neck and neck!
Today was the Leadville Boom Days Pack Burro Race. David and I got there early to get Sabina situated because 9am was the saddle weigh in. To pay homage to the miners, it has to weigh 33 pounds and hold a pick, and ax, and a gold pan. Also, the rope was checked to be the required 15 foot length. Before I knew it, we were at the starting line on Harrison Avenue. Spectators lined the streets while they announced each racer. At 11am, the Open Division was off. I originally was going to run in that division, but this being my first race, Curtis thought it would be best for me to do the women's division. So, I waited anxiously for 11:15 so we could take off. I was excited and very nervous probably because I wasn't really sure what to expect!

Originally I was told that burro racing is 70% burro and 30% runner, but I really think those numbers are WAY off. I would say more like 95% burro and 5% runner! As we started up Harrison Avenue, Sabina ran fast. Then she saw her buddy, Mortiky, running behind her. So, they decided it would be a great idea to stick together like magnetics for the rest of the race. If one stopped, so did the other. When we got the the downhills, both burros decided to walk instead of run. Mortiky's runner and I were getting so frustrated because we wanted to run, but they had other plans.

We would get into a little running grove for awhile and then one of them would stop, so the other one would have to wait. I was trying all the tricks that Curtis taught me, but nothing seemed to get her going because she was plastered to Mortiky! I even got out my secret stash of carrots. They didn't make her run faster; they just made her stop more because she wanted another one!

So, we played this game with Maleky and Sabina until we were back on Harrison heading up to the finish. They were neck and neck coming down the home stretch (not very fast because they were both walking again at this point)! People lined the streets and were cheering us in. She was pulling Mortiky and I was pushing Sabina. The announcer was laughing at us. Come to think of it, I think everybody was laughing at us! She pulled more, I pushed more, and Mortiky got ahead of us by a nose literally!

Sabina and I "ran" the 15 mile course in 3:25 which was good enough for 4th place! I am not sure burro racing is in my future, but I did have a great time! Usually in ultras, you are in control of what happens. In burro racing, you let that all go. My competitive side wanted to push hard, but I could only go as fast as Sabina wanted to.

Look for a post soon--we have video of our finish! It will make you laugh!

A Surprise Gift

2009-08-06T17:06:00.000-07:00

I received an email earlier this week from Brian Hart (owner of Frame De Art II located in Englewood, CO). I have never met Brian before, but he asked me if I could stop by his store because he had a gift for me! He told me he saw the story about my Badwater journey in the Denver Post and thought it needed to be displayed in a magnificent way. So, I stopped by today after work and this is what I received!!!

Frame De Art II does all kinds of creative, custom, and sports framing. Brian showed me some pictures of their work. I saw a picture of Olympic Gold Medalist Amy Van Dyken's framed bathing suit and gold medals. He mentioned that they could also do displays with medals, race numbers, shirts, etc. So, if you are looking for a amazing way to display your race hardware (and live near Denver), contact Brian. Their work is impeccable! He even told me he could make a nice display for all my belt buckles! Thanks Brian and Frame De Art II!

Mountain Moto

2009-08-03T18:04:00.001-07:00

I am so proud of our Newfoundland, Morrison (Moto). He went on his longest hike to date with David on Saturday while I was running a double Hope Pass crossing in Leadville.

When endurance genes were being passed out, Morrison must have been sleeping. I've tried to work his endurance up slowly in the past, but he usually always plops down and gives up! Not this time...Morrison made it to the lake below Hope--a 4 hour round trip!

David said Morrison would stop at every creek and lake to enjoy the cool mountain water!

Hope Pass in the distance! The most gorgeous day ever!

I'm Not in Death Valley Anymore!

2009-07-31T18:17:00.000-07:00

I have been spending a lot of this week in Leadville trying to get in some altitude training for the Leadville Trail 100 coming up in about 3 weeks. I am not completely recovered from Badwater...still looking to find my giddy-up again! I went up there early this morning to meet my friend Kevin Neadeau for a 40 mile run. He is also training for the LT100. We met outside of Leadville and started on the Colorado Trail and headed towards Leadville. It was so remote and so beautiful! The sky was bright and blue and I was excited to be on a trail again and running pain free.

We got through about 5 hours without any issues. Then the sky got really dark and it began to hail. It was coming down so hard! We were so cold and wet but kept running. The hail kept pounding for a good half hour! I remember wishing that I was back in Death Valley again so I would be hot!

The hail and rain slowed down and we tried to find a shorter trail cut off to get back because we were frozen. We went down this other trail that dropped a lot of elevation and brought us to a large creek. Then I heard Kevin say that we were supposed to be on the other side of that creek. It was very remote and there was no longer a trail, but I found myself looking for a magical bridge to cross. There was no bridge, so we made our own path through thick willows and then through the deep creek! My feet got caught on the willows several times and I fell in! I was worried we were lost in the woods somewhere near Leadville! Luckily after a bit, we found the trail again and started running fast! We were both beat, but running fast helped us keep warm. Before long, we were at our destination in Leadville. Very cold and wet, but we had a great day! What doesn't kill you makes you stronger!

David, Morrison, and I will be heading up to Leadville tomorrow morning for the weekend. We are going to camp and play at 10,000+ feet. I plan on running another long run on the race course in the morning. In the afternoon, I have another donkey date with Sabina. We will do a short run together and maybe some brushing. Sunday, will be another long run in altitude on the course. Then it is back to reality Monday as I go back to school.

I am not officially convinced that I am ready for Leadville. I still have about 3 weeks to decide. I am doing what I can in the altitude and that makes me feel more confident. Leadville is by no means easy even if you are prepared and rested, but I am excited for the challenge!

Donkey Date

2009-07-29T17:35:00.001-07:00

I know everybody has probably been wondering how my donkey training has been going! After a nice two week rest after Badwater, I finally got to go for my first long run today in Leadville. But this time I wasn't alone--I was accompanied by Sabina, a 4 year old Jenny burro.

I was very excited this morning on my drive to Leadville to meet up with Curtis Imrie (the burro man). Curtis's whole life is training and racing burros. He originally paired me up with Full Tilt Boogie. Rumor has it that Boogie is the fastest burro on the circuit. I guess I just didn't put in enough effort burro training this summer, so Curtis is letting a more experienced runner use Boogie.

I am actually happy to have Sabina. She is much smaller than Boogie which makes her easier to handle. Curtis says that she has a better heart to body ratio too! So, Curtis and the burros arrive on Harrison Avenue today and we all got acquainted. We spent some time bonding which is very important in the burro world! I found out that she has only raced once, but is a quick learner.

Our plan today was for me to cover most on the 13 mile women's burro course. I met Jim who actually raced Sabina in Fairplay last weekend. He came with Sabina and I to help me with commands and handling. We started off walking down Harrison Avenue. If you know Leadville, you know that this is the main drag. So, lots of people were amused with us and were taking pictures and yelling out comments like, "Nice Ass!" That's the technical name for a donkey so we weren't offended! It was pretty funny. We soon turned onto 5th Avenue and then again on 7th and were heading up to Ball Mountain.

At first, Sabina liked the idea of running. She ran at a pretty fast clip. Jim taught me the commands of yelling "Hup" while swinging the rope to keep her going. We were doing really good and then she decided to veer right. She thought it would be a great idea to stand under a tree and eat some grass. There was no rushing her either. She had her feet planted and was not moving! Jim got behind her and tried to push. Finally she started again. I had to work really hard at keeping her going straight. She really wanted more grass and managed to have several more stops along the way.

As we headed back into town, we were back on an asphalt road. She ran very well here and actually picked up speed. I was having a blast! Then out of no where, she made a quick, sharp right turn up this cliff. I was actually standing below her holding her rope. I started laughing because it was such a hilarious sight. She was pretty much done with the run and was trying to tell me in her own way. I stood below her trying to coax her down, but it wasn't happening. So, I climbed up and literally had to pull her down the cliff. We ended back on Harrison Ave. and walked in to the finish!

I had such a great day today! It was so much fun running with a burro! When they say burro racing is 70% burro and 30% runner, they are right. Hopefully in the actual race, she will stop a little less. I am going up again this weekend to train one more time with her while getting some time on the Leadville course. Place your bets---only 11 days till post time!