1st Place US Skyrunning Championships: Franklin Mountains 27k

Mountains Running in Texas. Yes, you read that right. The US Skyrunning Championships were hosted by TROT (Trail Running Over Texas), sponsored by Altra, and held at the Franklin Mountains State Park near El Paso. The peaks gain 3,000 feet and top out over 7,000 feet elevation. They are rugged with a remote, dry, desert quality, covered in sage brush, barren exposed rock, and sharp stickery cacti.  The trails meander silently, always adulating, and often going straight up or down a hill or crossing a mountain rampart. The footing is uneven, rocky, and sometime full of cactis spine or yucca plant obstacles to gracefully dodge. As wild and demanding and unforgiving as the trails are they offer unobstructed views into sublime environment: harsh and beautiful as it is: one is able to relax and contemplate. 

Such was the scene as the race got underway. Runners eventually separating into smaller groups and eventually running alone with nothing but time, trails, and toughness to take and think and contemplate over in the harsh backdrop. By mile 2 I had a slight lead over speedy and strong Jereme Leafe.

My goal was simple: Run relaxed and consistent for the race. Miles 5 through 6.5 gain 1,000 feet as they scamper up cliff bands called the “caves”. Here it was slow going but I stayed relaxed and enjoyed the easier pace on the technical route. It was important to remember that I was here to race myself and enjoy the process. Racing is challenging. Regardless of the mental and physical strain and effort one should always remember that they came for the challenge, embrace it, and rise to the challenge.

For the harsh terrain I wore the Altra Paradigms. This shoe was amazing. The most difficult terrain was probably a quarter mile section of Flintstone rocks that the shoes ate right up and allowed me to flow over them smoothly and efficiently. These irregular cantaloupe size rocks added to the challenge but were no match for the Altra Paradigms!

The next 4 miles brought the steepest part of the terrain: 2,000 feet gained to the top of the Texas Titan. I embraced the climb trying to break 2 hours to the summit. I hit 2 hours and 30 seconds. Briefly, I took in the views then turned and ran back down. I soon saw Jereme and knew my lead was just over 10 minutes. I cruised the downhill still keeping the speed under control. Finally, 3 miles later at the base of the mountain I was back near the starting line and 1 mile from the finish. The last mile of the race (and the first mile) ramble up a steep hill. What a way to end a race! I slogged up the hill enjoying the trail and running slower and tired from a great course with about 5,500 feet of gained elevation in 18 miles.

I crossed the finish line in first in 2:52 winning with nearly the same time as last year. The course and terrain were mesmerizing. For most of the race I had been lost in contemplation with little conscious awareness of time and effort. The victory earned me my 4 National Skyrunning Series Championship. Special thanks to Altra for sponsoring the race and me. Thank you!

Running to your Potential, Facing Challenges and Overcoming Them: 1st Place at Deep Creek Half

Another beautiful fall weekend had arrived. I was ready to run the Deep Creek Half in Telluride:

and planned on a fun easy and relaxing race. It was my 5^th weekend in a row of racing. I felt good and was ready to relax as I drove over to Telluride. A special thanks to Josh and Heather Blackman who hosted me! Once I arrived, Heather informed me that I would have some good competition, that I would have to race!

Mentally I had to change my race approach and strategy. I knew I would have to race to my potential and face the challenges and overcome them. All runners can race to their potential, but they need to mentally be ready, knowing they can push themselves just a little more. 

Next morning, I was mentally ready when the raced started. Ryan Becker was my competition. He took off at a blistering pace trying to distance himself early from the other contenders. When faced with a challenge like this it is easy to give up early, instead I tried to limit Ryan's lead and raced after him. Sure I was a little slower that day, but I made sure to stay as close as I could without burning too much fuel, and without mentally being setback. I fell about 10 seconds back, but remained in striking distance. After the initial 1.5 miles, the race turned from dirt road onto an uphill single track. I ran to my potential and used the uphill single track to reel in Ryan. I caught him. 

Photos by Heather Blackman 

We ran together for the next mile until a significant uphill where I took the lead. I pushed the pace and pulled ahead by 20 seconds on the uphill. The view was fantastic with colorful vibrant aspens in their peak of fall foliage resting on the mountain sides like a fresh quilt thrown gently onto a chair, ready and inviting have a cold race. Fully enjoying the views was difficult. The freshly fallen leaves lay on the meandering single-track trail hiding roots and disguising uneven footing. The added challenge increased both the difficulty and unique quality of the race. 

I wore the Altra Paradigms which provided the needed traction and stability while also being slightly lighter and faster. Ryan pushed the speed ensuring that he was not dropped. Overall, I knew I needed a smart strategic race. Ryan was fast on the flats and could hold his own on the downhills. I held a 10 to 20 second lead while Ryan I yo-yoed back and forth. The lead was minimal. At mile 8 on an extended downhill Ryan surged to just a few seconds back from me. I was running pushing the pace and Ryan was reciprocating. 

For the next 2 miles we both pushed the pace ran as fast as we could on the ever changing single-track rock-an-root laden terrain. It was here that I mentally had to decide to race to my potential. "What is my potential? What can I do today?" If you want to race at your best then these are the questions that must be answered and can only be answered by you.

I refused to limit myself. I knew I could push the pace just a little more. For the next 2 miles I ran with at first a 10 second lead, then 20 seconds, then 30 seconds... my lead was increasing, ever so gradually, but increasing nonetheless. 

At mile 10 through 11 I faced the last challenge: a steep last uphill. Once again I pushed the pace, I faced the challenge and overcame it. I ran down the last mile over a jeep road and into town averaging close to a 5 flat mile pace and won, breaking the course record by over 10 minutes. 

This is racing: when you race to your potential. It does not mean that you or I will win every race. It does not mean that you will reel perfect in the process. It does not mean that you will be able to race at 100% capacity in every race. 

It does mean you face your challenges head on and give an honest 100% effort. It means that you go out, challenge yourself, and ignore perceived limitations. It means that you push yourself to do more or run faster than you thought you could and then regardless of end results you will have won.

3 Races, 3 weekends, Training Tired, Running Refreshed: 1st at Sangre de Cristo 27k

Overall it has been a busy 3 weeks: I ran Imogene Pass Run, Lead King Loop, and Sangre de Cristo 27k. Sometimes runners get busy schedules where they just have to run on back to back weekends. At times these schedules can be demanding. Below I offer my two-cents on how to stay fit, health, and preform at your best.

Imogene Pass Run was my main goal race for the year. I went into the race healthy, strong, and ready to peak, having done perfect training and proper preparation for the race. I won Imogene Pass, but left feeling not just physical tired, but mentally drained. It takes a lot to prepare and race at your potential: it is both physically and mentally exhausting. Following Imogene, I cut back my runs making sure to get in extra rest. I cut out both time while running and had fewer runs. Most importantly thought: I made it an effort to have fun on my runs. I might do any of the following to help: I’ll run in a new location, don’t take my watch, ignore the time and pace, go for a hike up a mountain instead of a run, or go exploring. The key to mentally and physically getting back into it for an extended season is to enjoy it. Your training is done; it is complete, the hay is in the barn. However, now you can maintain your fitness, nearly at peak, and still run well if you are enjoying the process. This does not mean you stop training altogether. It does mean that you are having more fun than you normally would.

For the Lead King Loop, I took my training easy running about ½ as many miles as I normally would, and at a more relaxed pace. I went into Lead King still feeling tired from Imogene yet also feeling like I could run an honest effort. The race was similar to Imogene in that it started with a major climb. Runners gained 3,000 feet in the first 5 miles. I felt a little slower than normal and tired from Imogene yet the easy time throughout the week meant I was both physically and mentally prepared. The relaxed training paid off and I took a solid 2^nd place at Lead King.

After Lead King I once again took it easy. This is a great time to get in easy runs, fun hikes, hot showers, or relaxing messages. You can use a foam roller or other running accessary. This last weekend (the third hard race weekend in a row) was the US Skyrunning event: Sangre de Cristo 27k near Westcliffe, Colorado. The race consisted of running 4 miles, 2,100 feet up a jeep road and single track trail to Music Pass, then we turned around, ran back down to the start, and then did the whole round trip run a second time. It was 17 miles and 4,400 feet gain, 4,400 feet loss, and one tiring run. One advantage to the double out and back is that everyone got to see and compare their place with anyone else. One disadvantage was you knew what you were getting yourself into for the second round.

My goal for the race was to run consistent and relatively easy. By this I mean that I did not want to have unnecessary energy depleting surges in the race. I started slow, relaxed, and in 5^th or 6^th place. The consistent, almost monotonous, pace allowed for me to have nearly identical ascent times for both the first and second ascent. More importantly I did not waist or use up valuable energy or over extend myself. For both downhills I took it relatively easy allowing myself to run smoothly through my stride, not breaking overly hard, yet also not pushing the pace. Half way I only had a 90 second lead over 2^nd and 3^rd. However, the controlled steady pace paid off so that I had a 10-minute lead by the top of the second climb. I jogged easily down to the finish winning by about 11 minutes. I wore the amazing and versatile Altra Olympus. It provided the needed traction, support, and cushion that I need to run well.

Staying controlled both during training throughout the week and during the race paid off. I was more refreshed and less tired after the race. The win put me in position to win the US Skyrunning Series in November. Train smart, listen to your body, improve, and enjoy the process. 

Imogene Pass Run & Listening to your body!

I ran Imogene Pass Run this last weekend. I won the race for my 5^th time and yet on Monday I was unsure I’d be able to race. Imogene has been a focus race all year. Over the last month I’ve tailored my training specifically for Imogene. 2 weeks ago I ran an 18-mile tempo run at sub 7 minute pace with 2,000 feet of elevation gain and loss to sort of mimic a fast Imogene. After the workout training run I knew I was ready to race. My workouts were in; the proverbial hay was in the barn. I was ready and then Monday prior to the race I woke up sore and tight.

The day before I had unknowingly and accidentally stressed my hamstrings at home on a house project. My training plan of easy runs for the remainder of the week went out the window. I now had to adjust the plan and most importantly not stress out. I took 2 extra days off to recuperate the hamstring and made sure to get lots of warm recuperating showers for the muscles. Hot showers work wonders for me and are just what the doctor ordered. By race morning the tight hamstring was only a memory, the light jogging, rest, and hot showers had worked and I was ready to race!

10 minutes prior to the start the sky looked dark, deep, and foreboding as it spit out a spray of high mountain rain and mist. Runners scrambled for extra clothing and shade from the onslaught prior to the race. I changed from a singlet to a short sleeve shirt. The rain slowed and morphed into a light mist before dissipating entirely. Over 1,250 people toed the line ready for the excitement.

The gun blew and we were off. I took control of the pace and lead and by mile 2 knew I had built up a strong 30+ second lead. The goal of the race was to maintain the pace and hopefully run sub 2:20 pace. The early rain kept the dust down while providing fantastic traction. At miles 4 and 6 I managed to check my lead. All I knew was that I had at least a 30 second lead maybe more, but I could not tell as I could not see 2^nd place. The course followed the nearly unrelenting jeep road. It constantly gained altitude and increased the difficulty as the racers ascended.

Deep down I knew I was racing the clock; that I was racing myself; that I was racing for the joy of pushing myself and seeing what I could do on that given day. My goal time for Upper Camp Bird was 1:04:30. I came through at 1:05:14. The pace was great. A few seconds off goal pace but I knew I was pushing it and giving an honest effort.

At last I made it to the hardest miles: 8, 9, and 10. In these 3 miles you gain 2,000 feet: from 11,000 feet up to 13,114 feet. Here is the crux of the race, the time when racing you have to dig deep and push. I used a combination of power hiking and jogging and although I felt ok, I still felt a little sluggish. Most people do at 13,000 feet. Finally, at 1:40:21 I made it to Imogene Pass: 10 miles done, over 5,000 feet gained and 7 miles to go. This time was about 1 minute back or 1% off from my goal pace. My lead was just under 4 minutes. The mountain and valley vistas were grand, yet off I raced scanning the terrain ahead preparing my feet and staying upright.

Photo: iRunFar/Meghan Hicks

Down the jeep trail I ran at a near blistering pace of about 5:30 per mile. I tried to roll through the rocks bee lining it down the jeep trail. This takes a lot of practice but runners do get better. It helps to roll through your stride and not break with your quads so much. Just the same the quads do take a beating. It also helps to have a shoe you can trust like the Altra Olympus pair I was wearing. It handled the rough terrain, large boulders, and short creek crossing keeping my feet dry and happy. 

Overall, I knew my pace was solid and that my lead was safe yet I still pushed myself trying to give an honest effort. The aid station workers cheered me on as I ran through. Indeed, I utilized 2 aid stations during the race for water and electrolytes. Thank you all you amazing volunteers!

At last after over 4,000 feet of descent I arrived and finished in Telluride winning in 2:18:04. The race marked my 5^th win at the Imogene Pass Run. I’m blessed to have run the Imogene Pass Run 9 times now. In preparation for a goal race it is imperative that you train properly and listen to your body. I train a little less now than a decade ago running 40- 60 miles per week instead of 60-80. I also get injured less and feel stronger. I listen when my body says to take an extra day off, or modify and change that long run or workout. If you listen properly then your body will respond and run more consistently giving you great results.

Success vs. Failure

Success vs. Failure

Lets talk about success and failure. What does it mean to fail or succeed at something? To understand success first we have to understand failure. Our society often has a love affair akin to romanticism with failure. They say phrases like, "We learned from it and got stronger." Failure is part of the learning process and we improve from it." and "Failure is part of life and a good thing." Many see failure as not meeting perfection. They say that unless one sets the course record on a course then they are a failure. Unless they win the competition they are a failure. What a pessimistic depressing way to think and live. No, people should rarely fail.

Let me offer a different view on this subject. What is failure? Failure is when one does not act or try. Often people may not act out of fear of failure. However, my thesis here is lack of acting is the failure. Let me give an example to show my point. Imagine a 12 year old who wants to learn to ride a bike. However they are too afraid to fail and refuse to even get on the bike. They refuse to even try, that is failing. Now imagine the kid tries and got on the bike and does not learn to ride the bike. That is success. They TRIED! They put forth and honest effort and improved.

Now imagine the Super Bowl. Did the losing team fail? Let me ask did they put forth an honest effort and try? Did the victors succeed? Once again, ask, did they put forth an honest effort and give it their all? If the losing team put forth an honest effort they they were successful. If the victors were cheating, lazy, or just did not care, then they failed!

How should we apply this to running and be successful at running a race? Easy, give it an honest effort and run to your potential. Will there be races where you run at 75% because you have an "A" race in 2 weeks, you don't feel emotionally, mentally or physically as vested, or you are just having an off day? Sure. But if you give an honest effort where you actually try and run to your potential for that day then you are successful. I have a friend who coaches 5 and 6 year old kids. He tells them,
"Quitters never win. Winners never quit." This should be your goal. You might not set the course record but if you run to your potential and give an honest effort then you are abundantly successful.

When running an "A" race I try to run right on the edge of my abilities where any faster and I'd falter and bonk; and slower and I'd not be running within my potential. Finding this sweet spot is difficult and takes a lot of practice, and even then depends upon what the day and race throw your way. Does this mean you need to run at the edge of your abilities to be successful? No. Once again to be successful you need to try and give an honest effort and enjoy the experience. Some days this will be a greater effort than others. Regardless of the finishing result if you run within your potential giving an honest effort then you will be a phenomenal running success! Go out there and work towards your goals. Enjoy the process and journey and you will be successful having all ready won before the race even starts!

Timmy

1st Place: Kendall Mountain Run

I've been looking forward to Kendall Mountain all year. The race runs up jeep roads, with some high scrambling, from the quintessential Colorado town of Silverton up to 13,000. This year would mark my 5th year in a row of racing and I was determined to better my previous finishes from the last 4 years of 2nd, 3rd, 3rd, and 2nd place respectively. This year I knew I was fit and I was gunning for both the joy and the victory.

After camping out near by and waking up in near paradise I was ready.

By mile one I had a few second lead and knew I had to keep racing. The run gains 3,700 feet in about 5.5 miles. I pushed on up the steep rocky jeep road which was more wet even a little sloppy in a few places: a direct result of the the extensive winter and all the high mountain snow. Around 1 mile into the race I even had to run through a stream that was loudly flowing across the dirt road.

The 6 miles uphill are unrelenting. They are steep, rocky, steep, with thin air, and did I mention steep! Miles 2 through 4 were painful! I simultaneously ignored the pain and welcomed it. I ignored the hurt and welcomed the challenge. My lead was a minor 15 seconds over Tate Lagasca. Finally we reached 12,000 feet. Normally this is a great place to open up and run faster and smoother as the terrain (although higher) is not as steep. However, this year there were 10 snowfield crossings going up. Aravaipa Running did a great job shoveling in steps into the snow crossings for the runners.

                                          Photo by Meghan Hicks/IRunFar 


At 12,700 feet the jeep road running ends and the run heads straight up Kenadall mountain. Runners must power hike and pull themselves up using both hands and feet, until they summit and are treated to the amazing views in the heart of the San Juan's and Weminuchi. But Alas, upon touching the summit rock I immediately turned for the decent. My lead was a scant 20 seconds. I carefully bombed down the scramble climb back to the road and then tried to maintain about a 5:30 downhill pace which of course was intermittently interrupted by the snowfields crossings.

The downhill was fast, yet controlled and allowed my lead to grow. I wore the trusty Altra Olympus for traction and support. And honestly I can't complain about excessive soreness. I crossed the finish line in 1:44:19 a little more than 2 minutes over 2nd place. The run was a little slower with the snow crossings. I figure they slowed everyone down by 2-3 minutes. Overall, the day was fantastic: the snow crossings and blue bird skies and mountain snow interlaced with tendrils of mountain meadows, and smooth mountain peaks.

Praise God I can breath and run in such a pristine ethereal venue!

1st Place: CR at Run the Wolf

Schweitzer Mountain Resort: Sandpoint, Idaho: July 6th: Inaugural Run the Wolf 25k: US Skyrunning Race

The race started out with a short 100 yard warm up followed direct with the first hill of the day. The course ran straight up the blue ski run for 400 feet. I took the lead and maintained a consistent yet easily controlled cantor, not full on running around a controlled jog. At the top I turned and ran down a serpentine single track back near the start and then headed off in a general counter clockwise loop of the main course. There was good competition and we ran along on the skiing roads and catwalks of the resorts in a pact of about 4-5 runners. After 2 miles of mixed catwalks and single tracks the front pack that I was leading had dwindled down to one other runner Peter Butler who was matching my pace stride for stride. 

Around mile 3 we got on a wide service road with even, smooth, mostly flat footing. We picked up the pace now running sub 6 minute miles. Neither of us were willing to relax the pace. The road started a slow yet ever increasing decent. Peter and I picked it up. We were now running sub 5:30 miles. This was too fast... yet I could do, surely Peter would slow down. Peter thought the same; that surely I would slow down from the incredible pace. There was only one thing to do: Run Faster! I increased the pace to hover at 5:00 minute mile pace. This was fast! But it was "sea level" and we were running downhill. Peter reciprocated and kept within a yard of me. My mile splits were the following: 5:46, 5:07, 5:21, 5:15. This included clocking a 16:14 5k. Wow! 

Finally with 4 speedy miles in a row Peter subsided his pace. I now had the lead just in time to start the 2 mile and 2000 foot climb up the ski slope. At this point I slowed dramatically to a steady, consistent hike focusing on just continuously putting one foot in front of the other over the incredibly steep terrain. My next 2 miles were a 12:34 mile with a gain of about 600 feet, then a 20:34 mile with an outrageous gain of 1,316 feet! Whoa! I estimated my lead had now grown to about 2 to 3 minutes. I ran on feeling confident and strong. 

The next 8 miles consisted of double track, single track, another crazy steep mile long 1,400 foot climb up a steep mountain wall and a 1,600 foot decent down a single track with 40 or more switchbacks. 

I crossed the finish line in 1st place setting the Course Record in 2:31 about 8 minutes ahead of Peter. The Altra Olympus is amazing! They held up to the brutally fast sub 5:00 minute pace, the continuous pounding of mountain running, and provided the support and grip need for the trail and off trail running! 

 

1st Place: Leadville Heavy Half

A lot of snow and cool temps resulting in slow melting have forced many Colorado races to alter their courses or even flat out cancel their races this year. The Leadville Mosquito Pass Heavy Half was not exception. With snow still 2-3 feet deep at 12,000 feet and much deeper on parts of Mosquito Pass the race had to find an alternate course for the weekend. The Heavy Half 2019 course ran up 5th street to Adelaide Park, over and down to Cal Gultch, up to Printer Boy, down to Iowa Gulch, up Iowa Gulch towards the base of Mt Sherman and then back again.

I was ready for a great race. This was my first big race of the year and I was ready! I felt fit and ready to roll for the 15 mile race. My race plan was simple. Uptempo from the gun all the way uphill and see what my lead would be. I knew I would be up front and was ready.

I had an easy mile warm up and a few slow easy strides:

I was ready. The Star Spangled Banner sung and then the shotgun blasted. We were off.

I took it easy running a 7 minute opening mile. Yet, I found myself with only 2 or 3 other runners everyone else had fallen back in the pace. The first 2 miles gain over 800 feet. The dirt road we ran up got steeper. I maintained the pace and dropped the other runners. This gave me a slight 10-15 second lead. I now had the lead, my job was to increase it. I cruised down from Adelaide Park to California Gulch then once again pushed the pace up the paved road to Printer Boy.

The road was familiar. I've run it 100's of times mostly in the winter. I would not let up. I summited Printer Boy and from here the trail got fun. There was the following 1 mile rocky jeep road decent, followed by the 3 mile uphill to about 11,800 feet. I pushed all the way up, feeling strong and knew I was extending my lead. I hit the turn around in 59:47. My lead was about 1 minute 20 seconds ahead of 2nd. Solid.

I took off controlled downhill maintaining a comfortable just under 6 minute pace per mile for the next 3 miles. The run felt comfortable almost like a training day. Meanwhile 2nd place pushed his pace on the downhill to catch up. This maneuver paid off. With 3 mile to go 2nd place caught me. Averaging sub 7 minute miles above 10,000 feet with 2,500 feet gain for the previous 12 miles was not enough. It was time to race!

We hit the dirt road and hill up to Adelaide Park with about 2.8 miles to the finish. I raced up the hill and gained a messily 15 seconds. It was enough. The last 2 miles I ran downhill running 4:52 and 4:53 miles back to back. This was enough; my lead was secured.

I crossed the finish line clocking a 1:39:25 for the 15 mile course: Sub 6:30 average/mile on the course.

The race was fast! My Altra Olympus did the trick. They were both light enough yet also provided grip and cushion for the rocky trails, pounding downhill, and speedy conditions. Special Thanks to Altra. Glad I can be a part of # Team Altra. Thanks for thinking outside the box and making great shoes.

1st Place Course Record: Amasa 25k & Behind the Rocks 30k

Amasa 25k:

The desert! I went from the muddy and snow filled 30s and 40s of Leadville to the desert terrain of Moab. In Grand Junction I picked up Timbo Jenkins who had flown out from Kentucky to see what the desert Moab running is all about. We slept 40 yards from the start in the back of my 4Runner listening to rain pitter-patter on the roof. 

After a leisure and relaxing start to the morning, coupled with an easy and slow warm up we were off. Ryan Smith quickly took the lead and gained 10 - 15 seconds on the rest of the field. He was ready for a great fast day. He led the first mile up a dirt road. At mile 2 we jumped onto a rough Jeep trail that required a little route finding. I quickly caught Ryan and we ran together uphill following the slick rock Jeep Trail. We flew by a few jeeps and quickly ran across Kane Creek which was about 4 inches deep. I gained a short separation from Ryan and pushed the hill determined to maintain the cadence to the top of Jackson's Ladder. 

Jackson's Ladder is a steep trail winding and switch backing on itself down a narrow gap in the 300 foot tall cliff bands. The trail is renown in Moab and known for its steepness, ruggedness, and sheer delight it offers. It is nearly impossible to get into a steady consistent pace. I took the ladder one rung at a time not pushing the pace, it would be all too easy to fall and get injured. After descending into Jackson's Basin I once again pushed the pace as I ran around Jackson's Butte. Here I slowly increased my lead to 60 to 90 seconds. Then it was back up Jackson's Ladder. I power hiked and jogged up the Ladder ensuring I would have some energy for the last five miles. 

After the ladder the race went back on rocky and sandy Jeep trail, route finding slick rock, and cairn laced single track. I maintained my pace but felt a little sluggish.  I checked my lead and still had over a minute, could not let up. "Must maintain." I told myself. I ran down towards to the finish and knew the win was in my grasp. Then 100 yards before the finish the race crossed Kane Creek again... only this time it was backed because of its closeness to the Colorado River. The Creek was 10 yards wide and 7 feet deep. I jumped in and slowly doggy paddled to the other side. The water, pungent brown and full of fresh decaying plant matter was cool and wonderfully refreshing. This was followed by a muddy and slick climb out of the ravine and a light jog to the finish. 

I wore my new favorite shoe the Altra Olympus. The shoe had ample cushion, grip, and support for the hard slick rock, soft mushy sand, and steep and uneven terrain. 

Mad Moose hosted the race. Chris Martinez of Grassroots was an outstanding race director in years past. He is moving out of the Moab area. Wishing you the best of luck and health Chris! Justin Ricks and crew of Mad Moose has taken over. Great job guys! 

4 races, 4 podiums this year for Altra. Their shoes are helping me go the distance! 

March: Behind the Rocks 30k: 1st CR 

March: Salida Marathon: 2nd 

January: Arches 1/2 Marathon: 2nd

2019: New Year

Happy New Year. I'm excited to represent the Altra Red Team moving forward. 2019 will be full of races! I have over 25 races planned and hope to run fast and well. Training has started, albeit slow, I needed some time off after 15 difficult races last year. I'll be posting more in the coming days so tune back in. Thanks!

1st Place CR: Sawmill Trail Race:17 Miler

Sawmill 17 Miler: I ran the Sawmill 17 Miler in Golden this last week. The course is run in White Ranch Park on the north west side of Golden. I stayed at my brothers house in Golden and it was a good thing. It was cold out! 18 degrees. I parked a mile away from the start , along with everyone else, and hopped in a shuttle to the start. By 6:06 I had my bib and was standing outside freezing. I hopped back in a shuttle and went back to my car for the next 25 minutes. After warming up I returned to the start.

My race plan was to take it relaxed and easy, treating the race like a training run... and also try and break the course record. Soon I was running by myself on meandering trails run through grassy dales, and wooded glens. The course consistently threw hills and there seemed to be very little flat areas. It was fun. There were icy spots but for the most part there was rolling single track on smooth hard pact dirt. I kept a sharp eye out for course markings; after all, I did not want to go off course.

I knew my lead was solid and I would win the race providing I stayed the course. Half way through I figured I was on time to break the course record... but something kept telling me that the race would be a little long and I could not rest on my laurels. With 4 miles to go I consistently increased the pace to be sure I would break the course record of 2:24. I ran down and crossed in 2:23:30 for the course record.

The race helped me appreciate how difficult wins are. I have to be ready and prepared, and fit. Not an easy task. I had to make sure I followed the course and not get lost. Also a challenge. The footing with ice, rocks, and uneven terrain can be challenging. The race reaffirmed that running and racing is challenging and success at a high level can not be taken for granted.

A lot of people were racing and anyone that finished the race showed tenacity and was successful. I was thankful for the opportunity to run. The win marked my 6th win for the year, 4th course record, and 12 podium finishes.

As I ponder and look back at the success of this year I am grateful for the opportunity to race. The year had great races and poor ones: ups and downs, just like life. Keep running with Endurance!

1st: Dead Horse 30k

This was my 3rd race in 4 weeks. I felt confident and ready, as I drove over, after last weeks win at the US Sky Running Franklin Mountains. Then, as I drove through Glenwood Canyon, traffic slowed and stopped. There had been an accident somewhere up ahead and there was nothing to do but wait. The traffic was about 2 miles backed up from the accident and the cars backed up further behind me for miles like early pioneers in their covered wagons waiting for everyone else to start. I sat for over an hour waiting like everyone else. Finally, after what seemed like forever, we slowly inched forward, merged into 1 lane and 15 minutes later got around the accident which by this time was mostly cleaned up.

I arrived at the start near midnight, a substantial bit later than I had hoped or anticipated; but here at last I settled down into bed and was soon fast asleep. The morning dawned clothed in crisp, cold, and clear daylight. The took my time relaxed, yet focused, readying for the race. Leisurely, I made it to the start and then we were off.

The course follows a 4 x 4 road out 4.5 mile before connecting with mostly circular single track and slick rock track for 7+ miles before returning to the 4 x 4 road to retrace your steps the 4.5 miles back to the finish.

The gun was up and we were off. The pace was reasonable yet respectable but not relaxed we were going to be racing today. I sat in about 3rd or 4th pace after the first 6 minute mile. Then we ran smack into mile 2 with a nice 400 foot hill. I took the lead and set a respectable pace up the incline running the slowest mile of the race in 7:24. This did give me a slight lead and I bounded down the hill and kept the tempo going. At mile 5, on a sharp bend up a steep hill, I could see lead was about 30-40 seconds. Not much. Christian Kerr was on my tail, hammering, staring with eyes fixed on me racing and hungry to pass. I could not let up. We hit the slick rock. I rolled along enjoying the curves and the aesthetics of the trail. I was thankful for the Hoka Challengers that provided ample traction and support for the trail. I tried pushing the pace some more, but one can only do so much on the technical trail. I kept my eyes fixated ensuring that I did not take a wrong turn.

I rolled as fast as I could slowly watching the miles tick off under my feet. The miles were honest: low 6 minute mile after low 6 minute mile. My lead grew slowly to just over 70 seconds. I finished off the slick rock and started on the last 5 miles back to the start. I ran by the last aid station and yelped out so they would know I passed through. They were not expecting anyone just yet. I ran yet in complete control running the maintainable pace. Over the next 3 mile I managed to increase my lead but only by a mere 2 seconds.

With 2 miles to go I knew I had to maintain the speed. I had a 70 second lead and knew I had to run fast. I maintained the lead down the hill, now only 1 mile to the finish. Christian was surging. I raced towards the finish running my fastest mile in 5:28, Christian ran a blistering 5:16. I finished in first in 1:48:02 setting the course record, about 1 minute in front of Christian. A great day and solid run! Felt fantastic running so fast.
Photo courtesy of Denise Rick of Mad Moose Racing. Thank Mad Moose Racing!

1st at United States Sky Running Championships: Franklin Mountains 27K

Mountain Running in Texas? YES. I was ready and itchin' to race. I drove down on Friday and was able to leisurely hang out and wait for the start of the race. I camped out in my 4Runner and was in bed early at 7:30 pm. It was cold and windy out. The temperature had dropped down to the 30's and the wind had increased and was now howling constantly. Was tomorrow going to be cold and windy? Time would tell. My truck rocked back and forth. No, it shook violently with the wind. Well, I had to wait and see. I woke up at midnight with the the wind still howling and angrily shaking the truck. I warmed up the truck and went back to sleep. Finally at 5:30 I woke up and greeted the day dawning. The wind... it had stopped and when I stepped outside, although chilly, the air felt decidedly less cold and damp. Today was going to be perfect weather for racing. The front had blown through. Indeed it was in the low 50s with a slight overcast sky for most of the race and felt perfect. I ate a muffin for breakfast and called that good. It was enough.

After our pre-race course description by race director Rob Goyen we were promptly off. I decided to race in a short sleeve shirt. This decision had actually given me some consternation all morning but I made the decision and it was the right one. Texas phenom Justin Lange led the group as we ran up a 500 foot hill right out of the gate in the first mile. The terrain was serpentine single track slithering through sage and cactus and bounding over half buried boulders. Half a mile in I took the lead and started rolling with the terrain. My goal was simple: Run honest and up-tempo. Following the first mile we had a 4 mile undulating loop with some of the best footing of the day. I ran controlled in here mostly making sure I did not miss a turn. My lead had grown to about 90 seconds... I tried to ignore my place and focused just on my pace and ensure I stayed on course.

Next up was a steep scramble near the caves followed with a glorious single track with steep drop offs. At this point I was now catching the 50k runners who had started an hour before. Many were timid and cautious, and rightly so with the unknown hazardous terrain. I carefully ran along enjoying the beauty! Soon the trail spit us out on to an overgrown and unkempt 1800's mining road? At last I could get in a solid pace. I ran a mile down the road. Then I hit the infamous Frankly Mountain rocks. Or the Flintstone Rocks as I heard one person name them. There was a trail of loose cantaloupe and orange size rocks just wanting to roll an ankle or trip someone. Now was the time for prudence. I got through Bedrock's main street intact, refueled at the aid station and was off up the 2,000+ foot climb.

The first mile was steep but mostly runable except for a few spots. I made it up with no problems and then had a short section with a smooth road downhill for 300 yards. On the smooth road I took my eyes off the trail for a half second and caught a toe and went flying into the dirt and rocks in front of me. It was my first fall in long time. I caught myself with my hands and slid on my belly for close to a yard. All I was thinking was "Stop Sliding". I did at last. My knee was a little cut up, not too bad; my left had also cut but not bad; my right hand though had a good road rash gouge in it, but would be ok. I picked myself up and spent the next 1/2 mile mentally getting back into the race.

The smooth road turned up the peak and got rockier and steeper. The incline was perfect and I could maintain a slow shuffle up the peak. I kept the pace going and summited the Texan 7,000 + foot peak  in 1:59:27. From here I ran right back down the peak. I saw I had about a 15 minute lead or 1.5 miles over Justin. He looked smooth and ready for a solid 2nd place finish. The trail went back by where I tripped and then down the road back to the Flintstones Rocks. Once Again I cautiously ran through them. From there I was directed down to where the race had started and then the course ran right back up the first mile. Perfect: the first and last mile of the course would be the same. I was starting to get a little tired. It had been a great day. I crossed the finish line 2:49:22 and beat the course record by 20+ minutes.

A special thanks to Rob for such a great race experience; to Mike for the drive back to my car in your warm jeep, and to the medical volunteer who cleaned and bandaged all my cuts and trail badges. Without you there would be no race. Thank you!

The day had gone great. I felt phenomenal all day. I drank about 50 to 60 oz of Gatoraid and ate 2 cookies during the course of the run. I wore the Hoka Bondi's for the day. The course promised to be brutal and I need a pair of shoes I could trust. This was the first race in a long time I finished and felt fantastic. I could have run anther few miles with no trouble.

The win gave me:
* 17.9 Miles  5,400 feet gained and lost in 2:49:22
* United States Sky Running Championship 2018
* United States Sky Running Serious Champion 2018
* 3rd time as United States Sky Running Champion (2015, 2017, and 2018)
* 60th Career Win
* 21st Career Course Record
* 103 Career Podium Finish

1st at Sage Burner & 2nd at Indian Creeks 15 Miler

Well the last 3 weeks brought 2 races: The Sage Burner and the Indian Creeks 15 Miler.

Sage Burner 28K

This was the 11th year of the Sage Burner and my 10th time running the race. I have three 1st place finishes in the 50+k  and now 7 finishes (Four 1st place finishes & three 2 place finishes) in the 25/28K.

The Sage Burner has gone through many iterations over the last 10 years. Some of the original trails are now long gone replace by new, hopefully sustainable, trails. Each year often brought small nuances as trail work was done and then applied in the race. Below I've detailed some of the changes. Note: This is a general overview, most every year brought small unique changes.

2008 through 2014 (7 years):
the long course was about 33 miles (Water Treatment Plant was the primary difference)
the short course about 16.1 miles called a (25k)

2015 to present (2018)
the long course was about 31 miles
the short course about 17.1 miles (called a 28k starting in 2017)

2008-2016
Race ran in May (2008 was early June)
Even years: Run counter clockwise
Odd years: Run clockwise

2017 to present
Run counter clockwise and the race is now in October.

The 2018 Sage Burner 28K race: Sandy. Hilly. Rolling Terrain: That is the Sage Burner. I decided to were the Hoka Bondi for its extra cushion. The road shoe's grip would suffice while the cushion and closed upper would make for the perfect strolling in the park. Hoka would not disappoint! The shoe was perfect.  I wanted a Saturday Stroll but races don't always give you exactly what you expect. Eric LiPuma was ready to push the pace. We left the starting coral and broke the crisp air while my lungs tried to warm up. It was downright chilly... in the low 40s. I soon took the lead but only by a few yards as LiPuma stayed within a stride of me. We neared the top of the serpentine Jacks Trail and although I had the lead there was a large contingency of runners jockeying for position just 1 or 2 short turns back. Now was not the time to relax, or let doubt seep in. I was fit and going to show it. Today might not be a stroll in the park, instead it was to be a rolling with the wind, flowing with each corner, bump, and turn; using, challenging, and concurring each contour, rock, and hill. Mentally I had to get there. I ran the next mile slowly increasing the speed. Sooner or later I would warm up.

Finally near mile 3 at the bottom of Top O The World it was time. I kept the pace going with LiPuma still on my tail, and a large handful of other runners still trying to hang on. 3/4 of the way of Top O The World LiPuma backed off it was now time to flow with the trail. From here I kept rolling, pushing the pace yet not overdoing it. I still wanted that stroll even if it had eluded me, and now there was no sense in backing off, I had warmed up and felt good.

By Mile 10 going up Buddy Bear I knew I had a comfortable lead; I figured it was about 2 minutes. People might wonder how I know what my lead is... especially if I can't see someone. Sure one can estimate but how do you know? Racing involves pacing. Good racers can tell their pace and their competitor's pace and apply it with potential accuracy, but still it is just an estimate. I did find out later that my estimated 2 minute lead was actually about 2 1/2 minutes. I thing I've learned: you almost never have the lead you think you have.

At Mile 12 on top of Joshos I could see LiPuma in the distance and accurately estimate my lead to about 3 minutes. At last I had caught up to my desired stroll and just rolled comfortably with the run.

I finished and won the race in 2:00:20: my 7th time winning at Sage Burner.

2018 Indian Creeks 15 miler: 2nd place 1/8th of a second behind 1st
This was a United States Sky Running event. It was also my first race back after healing up my soar foot from racing 8 weeks in a row. I chatted with the Western Trail Running team all from my Alma Mater. Soon race director Sherpa John got us underway. He gave us our final instructions, recited prose, and then off we went. No "Ready, Set, Go", no gunshot, just prose. Sherpa John as a race director was unique and different yet honest and put on a good race. Thank you Sherpa John! You gave a great new perspective to the trail running seen and gave me some good philosophy to mull over for a long while!

After the whimsical start the Western Contingency consisting of Joshurun Small and Skylar Drakos and I took a soft lead and chatted at a comfortable pace. Our friendly non-competitive start evaporated near mile 2.5. It was time to race! Mile 2.5 to mile 7 was downhill and lost 1500 feet. Joshurun took the lead and set a blistering pace. His plan was to drop me on the downhill. We ran along on twisting single track trails through pine and aspen at 5:30 mile pace. Joshurun was unrelenting and in the process he dropped everyone else. We made it to mile 7 and I decided it was time to take the lead on the ensuing uphill.

I threw in a few short quick surges and took the lead on the steep terrain eking out a 12 second lead which I held onto until mile 11. Then Joshurun caught back up. He threw in a few surges which i reciprocated. Neither of us was going anywhere. We battled back and forth consistently switching leads only to gain 1 or 2 seconds before the other replied in kind. This continued for 2 miles until mile 13 when Joshurun's triple surge resulted in a 10 second lead and led to him missing a poorly marked turn. I stopped and called him back and made sure I was right about the proper turn. I figured I was and took off but Joshurun was not to be undone; he surged and caught right back up.

We had a mile left and went right back to surging as fast as we could. At this point we were on a skinny twisting single track running as fast as we both could. At last I saw an opportunity and jumped in front of him only to have the single track spit us out on a dirt road 100 yards from the finish.
We sprinted. I was ahead. Then he was. Then he was momentarily unsure where to finish, as was I. In a split second I figured out where to go and bee lined it to the finish as did he. We crossed together with Joshurun out striding me by 1/10ish to 1/4 of a second.

Official times were not being taken so I don't know. The timer decided to arbitrarily assign a 10 second difference. Go figure? Joshurun ran a great strong race. It was the closest race I've ever run. I brought both the Hoka Mafate Evo, the Challenger, and the Bondi's. Any pair would have been great. I decided on the Bondi's because of the smoother single track trail and lack of rocks and roots. They were perfect.

The results put me in striking distance of winning the United States Sky Running. Final race at Franklin Mts will be the decider.

1st Place CR SpeedGoat 30K

July 21st, 2018: This was to be my 5th race in 6 weeks. I was looking forward to i!. I'd get to run with the wild goats and through the wild flowers in the wild untamed Wasatch Front. I slept in and started in the leisure late start at 7:30.  I was fit and ready! I knew the day was promising. I immediately took the lead wanting to race hard from the start. 2nd place tried to hang on as I surged and continually pulled away. Between mile 3 and 4 I managed to pull away and knew I had to stay consistent. There was basically a continual hill from miles 2 through 9. Maybe 2 huge hills with 2 diminutive downhills thrown in for good measure. Through these 7 miles I gained roughly 3,000 feet. I ran consistently, constantly moving, never slowing and surprisingly feeling better and faster the further I ran into the thinning mountain air.

Finally I topped off near 10,700 feet. Yes, I live near this elevation! At this point I was running fluid and gaining energy. There would be crucial 2 turns in the next 2 miles. My eyes stayed focus knowing that I could not miss them.

Without breaking stride I found both turns with no problems. Karl Meltzer as always puts on a great race. The turns were obvious. Then came the wonderful crushing hill from mile 11.5 to 12.5 with over 900 feet of elevation gain. I would love to list off crucial exact stats but instead I'll have to resign myself by writing approximations: the grade is consistently 7% to upwards of 27% and my pace, well not the fastest but an ok respectable 16 minute mile pace.

Upon summiting I knew my lead had grown for I could look a mile down the ridge and finally see 2nd place a mile back. The original 2nd place had eventually accidentally gone the wrong way and subsequently dropped, while 3rd place was able to move up into 2nd place.

I was mentally prepared for the 6+ mile and 3,000+ foot decent. It was time to role! I wanted this win! I ran down, in controlled abandonment, not willing to let me lead lax, wishing to extend the lead. I finished in the Course Record time of 2:56:39.

It was great honor to win and represent HOKA One One at the Speed Goat. I thought about wearing the Hoka Speedgoats which is a great shoe but instead wore the Hoka Challenger ATRs. This pair is hard to beat when it comes to grip, cushion, and stability.

3rd Place Leadville Silver Rush & 2nd Place Kendall Mountain

4th time for the Leadville Silver Rush 50. 50 miles is a long way and a lot can happen. I was ready for a great race. I started off with a nice walk/hike up the first 50 meter hill and then started running. Soon I found myself with Josh Eberly and in the lead. Josh had been 3rd here last year when I was 2nd. Obviously Josh was in shape! We ran together but I knew sooner or later he would drop the hammer. I tried to stay consistent and run within myself. Sure enough after running together for the first 15 miles it was time to race. Josh put in a short surge and took the lead going up a hill. By Mile 25 he only had a few minute lead. I could catch him. I kept running and stayed in control. Near mile 34 I was passed by eventual 2nd place finisher Carlos Ruibal. I was not bonking and my pace was solid but Carlos was ready for a 2 mile surge. I ignored being passed and stuck to my race. I ran all the way of the Sherman Road and turned for the final 10 miles to the finish. I finished in 7:13:41 a whole whopping 6 seconds faster than last year. 


One week after the Silver Rush 50 I drove over to Silverton the evening before the race and camped out a few miles away. I felt ready to roll and hopeful for a good race. Early the next day the race was underway. I took the lead and pushed the pace with Dakota Jones immediately on my tail. He quickly surged ahead and took the lead. We were 1 mile in and already had dropped the rest of the racers. Dakota maintained a slight lead while I continually tried to close the gap. We finally summited with Dakota only about 10 second in front of me. I could close this gap. Or so I thought. Dakota turned on his downhill afterburners and was gone. I ran down hill consistently but did not try to pick up the pace. Dakota was gone and I was securely in 2nd place. I ran down and finished in a solid time. I wore the Hoka Challenger ATRs. They had the proper grip and the prefect cushion for that downhill.

Leadville Mosquito Pass Marathon: 2018

Leadville Mosquito Pass Marathon

The race marked my fifth time toeing that starting line. I felt ok and ready to run decent. Who would show and contend today? I started the race with a controlled up-tempo pace and soon had a small lead over second. I tried to pay no attention to pace and focus instead on maintaining the up-tempo pace. Finally, at mile 4 going up the Burro Trail on a switchback I was able to get my first look and time measurement on my lead. I had about a 1-minute lead and was rolling along, I just had to keep it up.

Soon I quickly rolled through Veneer Aid and started down Bombardier. I still was not pushing the pace, just trying to maintain. Once down to Adelaide Park I was able to get a second reading on my lead. It was about the same. I made the conscious effort to not push the pace. I had to maintain. 2 miles later I started up Mosquito Pass. I felt a little sluggish. The previous month of training had been decent but it also had been recovery from injury. I was strong, but not strong enough yet. I had to power hike a few more times than I would prefer. This slowed me up a bit but my lead was strong and was slowly growing.

At last the trail’s grade gave way to the pass and I summited in about 2:07. I had a few minute lead now over 2^nd place: Chris Mocko. I turned around and started the decent. I was unsure on my lead now as I was surrounded by runners from the Heavy Half. I just had to maintain. This was my mantra.

I ran along clicking off the miles then in Adelaide Park I finally was able to check my lead. It had dwindled down to less than a minute. While I had averaged pedestrian 6:30 miles on my decent Chris had lit 5:30 miles and had eroded my lead down to 150 yards. I headed up Bombardier towards Veneer. 1 mile later Chris passed me. I still felt ok and figured we would be in an all-out race to the finish. Instead, Chris took off and I never saw him again. After making it through Veneer I hammered down the Burro Trail thinking maybe I could catch Chris. Instead a lone runner came running up the trail.

A runner had inadvertently taken a wrong turn and was now off course. Being tired at the end of the race I was unable to grasp this simple concept and wrongly thought that maybe I was now in 3^rd. What was I thinking? I slowed my pace and started racing the runner. After 5 minutes of this, I realized it was pointless. I was indeed in 2^nd. The momentary lapse in judgement had cost me a few minutes of race time. I soon dropped the runner, who I think was starting to realize his dilemma, and raced down the finish in 2^nd place in 3:45.

I wore the HOKA ONE ONE Challenger ATRs. They provide the needed support, stability, and cushion that I need. Feet feel great, although the legs are sore from the 6,000 feet of elevation gain/loss.

Training is going well. I’m recovered from the hamstring injury of April and will now be racing a bunch. Stay tuned for some new races!

1st Place: Salida Run Through Time Marathon

Well this post might be a few weeks late, but here it is:

I've raced the Salida Run Through Time Marathon many times. I've won my fair share of races there, winning in 2008, 2009, & 2010. Since then I've raced and placed as high as 2nd at Salida, but the win has eluded me since 2010. This year would be different.

I went out with the intent of running fast and running to win. I kept an uptempo pace and the front pack slowly dwindled. By mile 2 the group was down to 3 other runners. We started up the first hill and it was time, I took off. I kept a blistering yet controlled pace all the way up to to the turn around at mile 14. Here, I used the out and back section to check my lead over second place: 5 minutes.

I've had success at races but winning is never guaranteed and I can't take it for granted. I knew  I had a good shot of winning the race and tried to keep the pace going. The mile 21 hill came and I crept up the hill at a snail's pace. My early blistering pace was adding up and now slowing me down. I had to finish, and finish soon. Fighting fatigue and getting past cramps I made it down to the finish and won in 3:19. Results are here http://my3.raceresult.com/87103/results?lang=en#1_22DCB0

The win was rewarding. Hard lengthy training paid off. Don't ever take for granted success. You must put in the time, the miles, the effort, the work. The training will continue.

Tentative 2018 Race Schedule

New year with many opportunities. Right now I'm training and planing out the year. Lots of solid early year training. Just trying to stay consistent with 50 to 70+ mile weeks plus a solid effort long run weekly. As always the races stack up in the summer making for a busy year with about 24 races. Granted races can change. I'll see what will happen. Meantime I'm going to keep it up and run well. Here is the tentative race schedule: 

1. February 17: Red Hot 33k                       

2. March 10: Salida Marathon                    

3. April 14^th:  Fruita Desert RATS Marathon:

4. May 5^th Collegiate Peaks Marathon         

5. May 12^th UROC 

6. May 19^th Black Canyon Ascent   

7. June 9^th Mt Evans Ascent          

8. June 16^th Leadville Mosquito Pass Marathon 

9. June 22^nd Leadville Training Camp
10. June 30^th Brighton Utah DCS

11. July 8^th Leadville Silver Rush 50

12. July 14^th Kendall Mountain Run

13. July 20^th Speedgoat

14. July 28^th Pikes Peak Ultra 30K 

15. August 5^th Alyeska Ak

16. August 11^th Sun Valley Ut                                            

16. August 11^th Aspen race

17. August 18^th A Basin  

18. August 19^th Pikes Peak Ascent

19. Sep 1^st The Rut 28 K          

20. Sep 8^th Imogene Pass Run            

21. Sep 16^th Crystal Mt Sky Marathon                         

22. Oct 6^th Flagstaff Sky Champs       

23. October 27^th Sageburner 25/50k                               

24. November 4^th Moab ½ Marathon 

Imogene Pass Run 2017: 2nd Place

At last it was time for Imogene, one of my all time favorite races. I got a late start in the afternoon but finally arrived in Ouray at 10:30 at night and slept in my favorite spot near the start. After a great night's sleep I was ready to race!

90 minutes after waking up I towed the line ready for a challenge. I wore the Hoke Challenger ATR: A great shoe with the necessary grip, comfort, support, and strong enough for the rugged terrain. My goal was 2 fold: win and break the age group course record. I knew that potentially I could do both.

At last the race was underway.
I settled into both my rhythm and pacing and by mile 1 found myself in second place right behind David Sinclair of Flagstaff AZ. I stayed on David's tail as he continuously threw in small surges to extend his lead and break the rest of the runners. They were quite effective. For the first 6-7 miles we yo-yoed back and forth yet David slowly increased his lead. I knew my pace was solid and was unsure if David would slow up or not. We had dropped everyone else; I just focused on David and tried to reel him in.

Atlas, it could not be done that day. I kept my pace up but David slowly pulled ahead. At last I topped out on Imogene pass right at an hour and 40 minutes into the race. Solid, but about 4 minutes back from David. I bombed down the back side aiming to break the age record. I crossed the finish line in second place breaking the age record by 14 seconds. Solid effort and my 7th podium finish at Imogene.