Superior 100 - Rugged - Relentless - Remote

"The only way I'll DNF (do not finish) this race is if I have a serious injury. There is no way I'm letting anything else will stop me. I will be relentless"- Jay Wnuk


   In the weeks leading up to the 2015 Superior 100 located in beautiful Northern Minnesota, I could hardly contain my anticipation for what was to come. Meeting new friends, new trails and new experiences had been on my mind for months. Having run the Zumbro 50 mile earlier this fall, I knew this community of Ultra Runners is something special and I look forward to spending time with them any chance I can get.

   This years experience would be my first and certainly not my last. Although, I was not running the 100 mile my main goal was crewing my good running friend Jay. When his decision was made to run the Superior 100 I knew this would be a great opportunity to help him as much as I could.

   Our small running group trained relentlessly with him as we all had our own personal races throughout the year and personal goals, but overall it got us together for some consistently good long runs. His training did not stop there. With multiple 50 mile finishes throughout the summer, I knew he was well seasoned and ready for whatever the rugged Superior Hiking Trail had to offer him.

   Friday morning I awoke 5 minutes before my alarm. A quick shower, coffee and a breakfast bar were the first things to check off the list. Kristine, another running partner and crew member helping Jay and pacing another runner Kurt (who also finished an absolutely amazing 5 hours before last years finish in 31 hours) and I packed my car with everything we needed for the next few days.

   Shortly after loading up the car we were on our way. The brisk morning highway breeze felt good with my window down. In my rear-view mirror an amazing, bright sunrise dancing on the mellow waves of Lake Superior. I instantly smiled and a feeling of excitement instantly came over me. I knew good things were in store for the day. I dropped Kristine off at the first aid station, which I would later return to and headed to the start.

   Immediately when I pulled into the parking lot my phone rang, it was Kristine.

   "Kurt's hydration pack is leaking and I forgot his new one back at the hotel," she frantically yelled over the phone.

   I told her I would find Kurt and we would get things worked out for the first 20 miles and could give him his new hydration vest at the second aid station. About 5 minutes before the start Jay's wife called me and put Kurt on the phone.

   I told him we would meet him at the second aid station and give him his new bag. I made my way to the official starting area and found Kurt filling up some water bottles and shoving them in his hydration pack as Jay's wife came flying in out of breath with a hand held water bottle to save the day.

   Kurt assured us he would be okay with the amount of water he had until we could meet up with him again and made his way to the pre race briefing.

All smiles at the start

   "2.....1 Go!" race director John Storkamp yelled as the runners shuffled across the start line on the narrow pavement trail unsure of what the next several hours had in store for them.

   I chatted with a few friends before heading to the first aid station where I would spend most of my morning volunteering and helping the fresh and energetic runners fill their bottles and whipping up a couple hundred peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

  
   The front three runners came in quickly, smiled and said hello to all of us as immediately circled around and headed on their way.

   Runners came in waves of big groups since it was early on in the race, but needed little attention and moved through quickly.

It's not everyday you see a 100 miler running in sandals

   Jay and Kurt came in together, grabbed a few things to eat and were on there way. A few hours later the last runner came in well ahead of the cutoff and we were given the okay to clean up.

   Kristine and I made our way to the next aid station as fast as we could, thinking if our runners kept the same pace they may have already been there or would be shortly.

   As we got closer to the aid station cars lined the right side of the road leading up the hill where volunteers were directing traffic and making sure runners could cross the road safely.

   Kristine and I jumped out of the car and started power walking up the hill. Another spectator walking towards us said only 4 runners had come though. We instantly stood up from our power-walking-hunched over pace, laughed at each other and leisurely walked up the hill.

   I knew a lot of the runners would start to settle into their own pace and spread out a little bit. After standing for a few minutes as runners came in I had the ingenious idea of walking back to my car to grab some chairs.

   After setting up our chairs I walked across the road and watched runners weave through the narrow trail while balancing on narrow wood planks before bursting out of the woods. Other spectators around me watched anxiously and began ringing their cowbells. Cheers spread like wild fire as cowbells broke the mumbling of the crowd as runners popped out of the woods every couple of minutes.

 
  Jay arrived almost right on schedule with a good size group. I quick snapped a picture of him and ran up to the aid station to help with anything he would need and ask how he was doing.

Coming out of the woods still looking strong

   He filled up his hydration pack ate a few things and I told him the next section was wide open with little cover and to remember to drink plenty of fluids even with the cool temperatures and breeze I knew it was key to the rest of the race.

Routine aid station face stuffing fest

   "See you at the next one!" I yelled as he headed off. Kristine and I packed up our chairs and knew it would be a while before our guys arrived at the next aid station so we decided to a quick bite to eat.

   I scored probably the best possible parking spot in the parking lot and we set up shop to eat. Chips and hummus in a tortilla shell hit the spot.

   The crowd and their contagious energy had followed. As I made my way towards the action more cowbells and cheers erupted as each runner came into the aid station.

   A slight rocky downhill followed by a small bridge crossing welcomed runners. I noticed a couple volunteers at this aid station who were also at the first one in the morning, it was incredible to see so many willing to help out as much as they could.

   Jay had settled into a decent pace for himself by now and separated himself from Kurt and other runners he had been with all morning, which was a smart move with the long day(s) and night ahead of him.

   A quick water fill-up, food and a hug from his wife and a you look friking awesome I will see you at County Road 6 where I will pace you if you want from me and he was on his way.

   Kristine and I decided to skip the next aid station and try to get some sleep. I wanted to see the front pack come though the aid station down the road so I quickly headed off.

   After a few minutes I head someone say the leaders came though about 20 minutes prior, they were flying. I headed back to my car to change into my running clothes, get my gear ready and lay down.

   With a sweater blocking the blinding sun I closed my eyes and only managed to get about 20 minutes, if even that, of rest.

   About a half hour before Jay arrived I decided to head back to the aid station and cheer on some runners.

   As the blinding sunset down the road slid behind the trees Jay came in looking good and ready to eat some food and refill his water. I asked him how he was doing and if he wanted me to pace him now or at the next stop. I'm not sure if he really gave me a clear answer, but I was ready to go and soon we were off.

Heading out to pace

   We chatted a little about how the race had been so far as we mostly hiked this section. We were moving at a good click and I was able to take in a few spectacular overlooks as the sunset on the first day.

Into the Night

   Jay's plan was to hike and move well at night and run if he could, but try not to waste too much energy since we would still have a long day left once the sun came up. A solid plan for his first 100 miler.

   We rolled into Finland aid station which was about half way. After a quick change of shoes, coffee, hotdog and a few high fives we were on our way into the dark, cool night.

    We made some good time on the short gravel road that headed back into the woods and caught up with a larger group ahead of us, snaking though the trail. I had ran this section earlier this year and knew it pretty well, but was inexperienced at night.

   Soon we made our way to the next aid station, slammed some more coffee, filled up our water bottles and headed on our way. We found a nice groove though the snake like roots covering the trail to the next aid.

   Once out of the woods and onto the short gravel road we caught up to 15 time finisher Susan  Donelly. We paused for a moment, covering our head lamps, to look at the night sky searching for the northern lights that were rumored to be out, no such luck. We trotted up the hill, staying as far left as we could as cars crept towards us avoiding other cars that lined the other side of the road.

   "I've never seen so many crews and cars at this aid station," Susan muttered. Her well seasoned legs set a steady pace for us up the slight incline as we rolled into the aid station.

   Spectators sat bundled up in blankets, lining the road across from the aid station's tables. I grabbed some Vaniply for Jay and he quickly scurried off into the woods to apply it to some troubled chafing areas.

   Pickles, chocolate bars, salted nut rolls and more coffee were on the late night trail snack menu before heading out. I quickly grabbed a few salted nut rolls for some late night snacks as I knew the next 9.4 miles would take us a while to get through.

   We continued to move well though the night, gaining ground on runners during big climbs. Rivers running though the woods roared as we approached them. I could feel the energy instantly put a surge our pace.

   The night went fast and we soon noticed a subtle light outlining the trees in the distance. Along the hillside, to our right we were once again reacquainted with Lake Superior and an amazing sunrise.

Incredible sunrise

    After the blanket of night a new day was approaching us as the sun's orange glow lit up the sky with the subtle night sky above.

   We reached the next aid, filled up or water packs and just as we were about to head out Kristine jumped out of her chair and ran over to us.

   "Did you guys see Kurt?" she asked frantically. "Nope, we haven't seen anyone all night," I replied. She quickly walked over to the HAM Radio operator and was advised he had been there about 2 hours before us.

   "I don't know how I missed him!" she yelled, wished us luck and told us she would see us at the next aid station.

   With the sun lighting our way we heard the roar of the marathon runners starting. Perfect timing I thought. We were moving at an excellent pace, considering the 70 plus miles Jay had already conquered and did not have to worry about all the fresh marathoners scampering past us.

Feeling good. Jay's wife caught us just as we were about to head out

   Jay continued to move well as we cruised through another aid station and began the biggest climb, Carlton Peak. The miles were starting to catch up with us, but Jay set a steady, relentless pace to the top. The first few 50 mile runners skipped past us as we descended down the back side of the climb.

   Sometime during the 5.7 mile section I completely skipped an aid station and thought we only had a little over 7 miles to finish.

   Jay picked up his pace, running a little more to the next aid. We arrived in high spirits, but when his wife was not dressed in her running clothes to pace the last section with us, every bit of energy Jay had was gone like a fart in the wind.

   I instantly felt horrible for my rookie mistake. As we left I quickly whipped up a small pep talk reassuring Jay he was still moving well and we just needed to adapt and get though this section.

   Little talk and a few other 100 mile runners passed us. I was losing him. There was no way I was going to let him quit, especially since he had come this far.

   The last mile or so he began to lighten up as we cruised into the last aid station with his wife ready as ever to push him through the last 7 miles.

   With a couple more big climbs, a fresh pacer and the end nearing, Jay had found a new spark. I struggled at times keeping up with them as I fumbled with my equipment bringing up the rear, but soon found my own groove.

   As we neared the top of Mystery Mountain I pointed out to Jay he could see the finish, he had absolutely no time for that, he was completely focused on his next step. Barreling down the hill the calming sound of Poplar River filled our ears.

   Across the bridge and a steady hike up the small incline onto the road Jay knew the end was within reach.

Moving right along

   Moving along at a blistering fast 8 minute/ mile pace we weaved around a few corners.

   "Where the f*** is the finish?" Jay yelled repeatedly before we finally arrived at the final path leading around the pool to the finish.

   "I'll see you at the finish man!" I yelled and patted him on the back. He quickly grabbed me and yelled, "Hell no! You're crossing that finish line with me!"

   In the last stretch around the pool Jay's wife ran ahead of us, yelling as loud as she could as other runners and spectators cheered us onto the finish.

   With the same amount of anticipation for the race to start, the feeling was still there in Jay's last steps as he crossed the finish line.

   An instant sigh of relief, congratulatory hand shake, coveted medal and belt buckle from Race Director John Storkamp, mission accomplished.

Inside he was ecstatic to be done

Relaxing after a long couple of days

Still smiling

   The community and upbeat atmosphere at every Ultra Marathon event I have been to is simply incredible. Witnessing everyday individuals coming together to test their limits may be beyond comprehension for some, but for those willing to go too far understand. As a competitor and experiencing these ultra feats first hand simply comes down to believing.

   Believing in yourself enough to let your ego go and trusting in yourself that you can and will go farther than you ever thought imaginable. Whether it's around the block, 2, 10, 25, 100 miles or more, limits have no boundaries except the ones you put on yourself. Don't be afraid to get out there and test the boundaries so many have been lead to think is possible. It may not always be easy, but trust me, nothing is impossible.

Grandma's Marathon

“If you don’t have the ability to celebrate what you have now, nothing you get—and I mean nothing; nothing material, nothing experiential, no amount information, no amount of experience, no amount of material possessions—is going to teach you how to celebrate.” -WuDe

    My first official marathon. It was not easy and definitely one I will never forget. The week leading up to my first marathon race I had some mixed feelings. I had already ran 26.2 miles multiple times throughout the past couple months and felt confident in knowing I would finish.

   The Sunday before the race I decided to join a friend in a 40-mile fun run with just the two of us. We took it easy and really enjoyed the miles, I knew in less than a week, on hard pavement the finish would be a lot different. I'm not a huge believer in tapering, but after the long run I did take it easy only racking up about 15-miles the week of the marathon.

   My strategy going in was simple. Run, have fun, run, enjoy the scenery, run and enjoy the miles no matter what. I had somewhat of a goal of finishing under 3:30 or at least under 4 hours, but either way I was going to PR (personal record) since it was my first.

RACE DAY

   4am came quickly on the cloudy, misty and somewhat cool Saturday morning. I once again had no trouble waking up before my alarm went off after a glorious night of sleep. Being the veteran spectator at Grandma's Marathon that my girlfriend is, we made it to the bus and train transportation area plenty early, which was good since a lot more people had the same idea to arrive early.

   After parking in the ramp we quickly unloaded her bike, which she was planning on riding to Lemon Drop Hill at mile 22 to meet me on the course. We made our way down the ramp and parted ways as it would be a battle for her to get her bike through all the people trying to get on the bus' and train.

   I opted to take the train because, well, they're awesome and I thought it would be a good time to enjoy a nice slow ride to the start 26.2 miles away. The heavy eyed marathon runners made their way onto the train, some instantly trying to find a few last minutes of sleep, others chatted up a storm almost the entire ride.

   One of the volunteers made his way through each car to alert runners we would be at the start with about 40 minutes to spare. A jolt and a loud toot of the horn and we were on our way. Wondering spectators and runners waved as we crept along the tracks.

   I listened in on some of the people around me as one guy was informing some marathon runners of his experience running ultras and answering a barrage of questions. He mentioned one guy had ran the "Double Grandma's" the past couple years which is, yes you guessed it, starting at the finish, running to the start and running back.

   Being the ultra running junkie that I am I instantly thought this might be a good idea to try next year. About 5 miles from the start we saw the Double Grandma's Marathon runner and a few others trucking along to the start to prepare for yet another marathon. Soon the train came to a slow halt. As passengers began to shuffle towards the exit I looked out the window and noticed a rain drop streak across the glass in front of my face.

THE START

   The lines for the bathrooms were long, the rain was falling and I was sitting comfortably inside the train, waiting for the rain to pass. Just as a group of us were starting to get comfortable on the train a volunteer came down the isle and coaxed us out. Being the nice boyfriend  that I am I had given my disposable rain jacket to my girlfriend. I knew once the race started I would warm up quickly so I wasn't too worried.

   I quickly dropped of my drop bag and searched for a spot under the medical tent. A nice group of people let me sneak in between them which is where I spent the next 30 minutes before the start. The rain started to come down hard then lighten up, but no thunder or lightening, which was a good sign.

   People began to throw all hopes of setting a PR (personal record) for the day, but I knew, since this was my first marathon, I didn't have to worry about that. Muffled voices come on over the speakers, everyone was quiet and a lady began singing the national-anthem and I hadn't even thought about lining up to the start yet.

   Soon people started making their way to the start. Some braved the ankle deep puddle and escaped with wet feet, which is the last thing I wanted for the next 26.2 miles. I waited for the group to make it to the start on the back side where there was solid ground and grass.

   I followed the line through the crowd as we crept from the back where a sign read "walkers" to about the 5 hour pace group. With no room to move I figured this would be alright and a good idea to start out a little slow and hopefully catch up to some of my running friends along the way.

   After about 5 minutes after hearing the first runners shoot out from the start we were finally moving. Two steps, then three and eventually a giant opening in front of us opened up and we were off.

THE FIRST 13.1 MILES

   Bags littered the road. Ditches were covered in old shirts and bags as a few runners dashed off into the woods to quickly relieve themselves.

   I cruised through the first 5 miles without noticing the miles ticking by. I searched for some people I knew and eventually caught up to them and had a quick chat before heading off, I was feeling good. With everyone dashing off into the bushes I thought it would be a good idea, but decided to hold off for a port-a-potty.

   Still feeling good, I knew I had to be careful to not push myself too much too soon as I cruised past the 4 hour pace group and eventually making it to the 3:35 group. I knew, being I had started a little later than everyone, this would be a good group to stick around and hopefully make it under my goal of 3:30.

   I sped past them after a few miles, still feeling good and eventually made it to the half way mark, 13.1 miles. A guy wearing an Ironman hat, who I noticed had stuck with me for the past few miles, was relieved we were half way done and told me I was looking strong for the next half of the race, which I was, but I would soon find out would be short lived.

TO THE FINISH

    Mile 15. Only 6 miles to go. In my head I was thinking I run this distance almost everyday, but not after running 15 miles prior. I suddenly began to feel my shoulders shrug, my breathing was off and overall I began to feel the miles catch up with me.

   I thought this might be a good thing. Maybe it would only last until mile 20 or so then I could cruise across the clouds the last few miles with the unicorns skipping by as doves lifted me to the finish and a hundred angles massaged my legs. That was as far fetched as my crazy thoughts of this funk only lasting a few miles.

   I pressed on, knowing at mile 22, at the top of Lemon Drop Hill my girlfriend would be waiting. As we turned the corner at about mile 21 or so all I could see, off in the distance was a giant hill. I just put my head down and tried not to think about how crappy I was feeling. I knew if I could just run to the top of the hill I could take a quick break and give my girlfriend a hug and a kiss before heading off.

   I looked up. One block. I had only gone one block. The biggest hill on the course still waited in the distance and look to be impatiently tapping it's foot waiting for me. Block, by block I finally reached Lemon Drop Hill and before I knew it I was already halfway up. My hamstrings were burning by this point, but I knew just a few hundred feet my girlfriend would be waiting for me.

Coming up Lemon Drop Hill

   Trudging to the top, in the distance, I could hear her yelling and shaking her cowbell. She wished me luck to the finish and I headed off down the hill. Running downhill was more painful than running up the hill I had just came from. My feet slammed into the concrete as water began to squish out the sides of my shoes. After a few turns the crowd lining the downtown streets was incredible cheering the runners on.

   In my slower pace the 3:35 pace group had caught up to me as the crowd began to yell even louder. I stuck with them for a little while, feeding off the incredible energy they brought with them before finding myself exhausted and walking for a little bit.

   Waves of people flew past me, but this point I didn't care. I just needed a break to hopefully finish strong. One of the volunteers yelled out, "only a half mile to go!" and I instantly started running again. Around the corner and into the final straight away I could see the finish line. I pushed hard, passed about 10 more people as the crowd was absolutely ecstatic as runners sprinted to the finish. Arms up, across the line, sigh of relief, I had officially completed my first marathon.

FINAL THOUGHTS

    Over the past couple days I have had some time to think about everything I learned about my first marathon, which can be summed up in the quote at the beginning of this post. Even though I did not finish under my goal time I quickly realized this is my fastest marathon time to date. Celebrating what I have now is the real accomplishment. By looking at all aspects of each race and in life, whether it's reaching my goals or falling short, I have become a lot more relaxed, focused and have found it easy to move on by not getting caught up in the baggage failing has been known to come with. In the long run I feel this is a great base to find the best in even the most simplest of accomplishments. This will certainly not be my last marathon, but by realizing what I did and what I can do, is reason enough to celebrate.

Lost In The Woods- 50k

"There is little that can withstand a man who can conquer himself," Louis XIV

   Fat Ass- The name given to a series of low key runs that are frequented by experienced runners & walkers and characterised by the phrase "No Fees, No Awards, No Aid, No Wimps". Yes, the runs are totally free to enter and are put on by passionate runners who are also running. Think of it as a bit like meeting some people for a bushwalk - except it's a run. Because the runs are not races in any sense, there is no guarantee of anything other than a course to run.

   I had heard about the Lost In The Woods 50k a few months prior to the start date, but after coming off my first 50-mile run a month prior I did not want to commit to anything too big; especially 31-miles. About a week before the start I was feeling good and well recovered, even after setting a PR in the Lincoln Half Marathon, and with no running plans coming up, I decided to sign up for the low key, fat ass 50k run in St. Peter, Mn.

   In it's inaugural year, Lost In The Woods 50k had a unique twist behind just running 31 miles. The objective was simple- follow the directions to 15 books spread throughout thick wooded and hilly rough terrain with an aid station half way. This was definitely my kind of run.

   I headed to my Grandpas the night before since it would be a lot better if I did not have to get up at 3am and drive to the race and back right after, also I was due for some time with him. Upon arriving at my Grandpas somewhat late Friday night we chatted for a few hours before heading to bed.

   4:30am came way too quickly and before I knew it I was out the door. As I walked to may car the brisk morning air tingled my naked arms and face, I definitely did not need any coffee. Following my GPS on my phone to the start of the race, which was located at Scott, the race directors house, I turned a slight corner as my car struggled to get up the steep hill leading to his house. For some odd reason I knew this was going to be part of the run.

   I pulled into the driveway as most of the total 17 runners were making their way to sign in, receive their page number to take from the books along the course and listen for course directions from Scott. I chatted with a few friends and made some last minute decisions as to what I wanted to carry with me and headed over to the starting area for some last minute instructions.

Scott giving course directions

   Scott looked down and basically pointed at a crack, or imaginary crack in the concrete and instructed us it was the starting line and we could go as soon as he counted down and the bell rang.

   3...2...1... DING DING DING! And we were off. I had already decided to pull some shenanigans at the end of the drive way and turn the opposite direction everyone else was going for a few steps and managed to get a few laughs as we made our way down the steep hill, across the parks parking lot and into the woods.

Heading off down the driveway

   Not even a mile into the run and my knee was starting to bother me. I decided it was a good idea to stick in the middle of the pack rather than going out too hard at the beginning like I sometimes like to do. Before I knew it we were at the first book tearing out our page numbers and quickly continuing on

   As I ran along I met up with a lady named Shelly, who was also at the Zumbro 50-mile run a month ago and finished about 5 minutes ahead of me. I told her I remember seeing an "older" lady pass me on my second loop at Zumbro and she was HAULING ASS, or I was just running that slow.

Chatting with Shelly

   We talked as we made our way through the woods and kept the group ahead of us within sight for a little bit, but soon found ourselves looking at the map for the next book. Two other guys, Matt and Bob, stayed with us as we followed the pink ribbons throughout the course in some off trail, thick wooded hillside we were soon out of the woods, up a hill and at the second book.

   I chatted with Bob as we made our way down the hill. Bob told me this was his first Ultra, but he has ran a bunch of marathons before. We made our way back down the hill and into the thick woods once again following the pink ribbons. Bob was leading the way and started going off course as I caught some pink ribbons to my left out of the corner of my eye as Matt and Shelly followed.

The pink ribbons that marked some of the course

   "Good catch!" Bob yelled as he quickly caught up to the group. We made our way along a narrow hill as I blasted down it jumping over logs and into soft patches of leaves and dirt. I was totally in the zone as I came to the bottom and could see some people waiting to take some pictures at the bottom as people came out of the woods.

   I waited at the bottom for the rest of the group to catch up since I had no idea where to go next. Bob got out his map and led the way. As we ran along the small stream that ran next to the trail we came to a crossing and did not know which way to go. Bob, once again, got out his map and soon noticed we may have missed the last book. At first we thought we could just skip it, since running back about a quarter of a mile and possibly up the hill again would not be fun. Right as we started putting our maps away, Scott came around the corner and asked us what we were doing standing around.

Just following the "trail"

Still smiling

   We told him we might have missed the last book and he assured us it was not too far back. Good thing it was early in the day and our legs were fresh, otherwise I would have dreaded going back even more. A little ways back in the woods the way we had just came from I spotted the book on a tree stump. I could not believe all four of us had all missed it. We quickly tore out our designated page numbers and pressed on.

Tearing out our pages

And off we go

   Once again we found ourselves in an open area at another trail crossing. Bob got his trusty map out and proceeded to ramble off some directions. Shelly mentioned something about going across the top would make more sense, but Bob insisted going down the hill was the correct route. As we made our way down the hill I could feel my knee slightly twinge a little more with each step I took.

   Making our way to the bottom I noticed someone running towards us along the trail. Scott popped out around the corner waving his hands telling us we were going the wrong way and we had to go back up the hill and across the top.

    "That's it! I'm done leading," Bob said with a laugh.

   "I told you we should have went around the top," Shelly sharply yelled out. "I knew we were going to have to go back up that big hill, but why listen to me".

   Luckily the day was still young and we took the once again off course challenge in stride, but I couldn't have agreed with Shelly more. Bob's trusty map following skills that had led us to the first few books were starting to fade.

After finding half of the books we had to punch the pages with the yellow punch

   The next few books we found had a better outcome and we were starting to find our way along the course a lot better. Around the tenth book I started to struggle as my knee was becoming more and more of a pain on the downhills. After weaving through the trails I heard a WHHOOOOPPP ahead of us. I've heard this before and I knew it was Kevin.

   I've ran a couple times with Kevin and he seems to always be a super up beat guy looking to always cheer people up, which was exactly what I needed. Bob, Shelly, Matt and I made our way out of the woods and past Kevin as he cheered us on and took a few pictures.

   The rush only lasted a few minutes, but it was a perfect pick up as we made our way through the rocky waterless stream. This section seemed to take forever as we looked for the ribbon marking to go up the hill to the right and once again across a field and back into the woods.

   We cruised the next section, picking up the next couple books before the aid station where we refilled our water bottles and ate some food. The volunteers took down our names and directed us to the small loop we had to do in the woods behind the aid station before continuing on the second half of the first loop.

Awesome trails

   The second half of the course was a little more runnable, but still had a lot of unrelenting hill climbs. We soon found our way towards, what I thought was the last hill of the course before Scotts house. On the long gravel road leading up the hill I thought we were going to take the next left, but Bob assured us we still had a little ways to go to get the last book.

   Standing at the bottom of the hill was Larry, also known as The Oricle. For those of you who do not know Larry, he is the original founder of the Zumbro 100 and previous race director of the Superior 100 in northern Minnesota.

   "Go around the tree and head up the hill," he instructed us. Around the big tree shielding one of the biggest climbs on the course was the hill. Bob, Matt, Shelly and I slowly climbed our way up dodging short, sharp tree stumps as the netting stuck to our shoe grips and the sun beat down on our backs. I could feel my legs burn with each step as we marched to the top.

Yea... We had to go to the top... Twice

   Bob reached the top and yelled out,"We made it!" Even though I still had a few steps to reach the pole where the book was I had to stop for a second to rest my throbbing calves. The descent was no easy task either. The small tree stumps were waiting for a miss step to catch a falling traveler. If anyone were to fall it would not be a pleasant trip to the bottom.

From the top

   All four of us made it down safely and made our way slowly up the last hill to Scotts house where we rested for a few minutes and dropped of some extra clothes. I was filling my water bottles and noticed Matt was sitting in a chair looking a little exhausted.

   He made his way over to his car as Shelly, Bob and I started on our way. Matt was sitting in his car with the door open and advised us to go on without him as he needed a few more minutes to rest.

   We continued on, but had to do the course in reverse this time, which meant climbing up that damn hill again. I figured it was like ripping off a band-aid and it was better to just get it done and over with, so up we went.

   I really started to feel the miles catching up with me as we neared 20-miles. My knee was really starting to bother me on the downhills and running on the flat sections did not prove to be any better. Shelly and I chatted frequently checking in with each other as we both were starting to fester up some odd aches. 

   Like a gazelle, Bob springily ran ahead of us as we quickly caught up to him on the steep climbs. The next half of the course flew by and we were finding our way well without the map and did not get lost once, which made up for a lot of time on the previous lap.

Bob leading the way

   With about 5-miles to go I felt a sharp pain in the back of my knee. I stopped to quickly stretch it out as Shelly came up behind me and asked if I was okay. I told her I was fine and proceeded down the hill the best I could by putting most of my weight on my other leg and sort of skipping down the hill.

   With just two books left I knew we were almost done. At the top of the hill before the last book we ate some jerky and continued onto what seemed like the longest section on the course to the last book. Bob insisted we run a little bit as Shelly stuck with me on the descent down the hill.

   I started to slowly run making sure to not push it too much as my knee was still bothering me. Surprisingly it felt pretty good as we continued on into the woods to the last book. Continuing through the loop around section to the next book we came upon some park visitors who were blasting golf balls across the river as once guy chugged a full liter of Mountain Dew and waved as we ran past.

   Soon we were at the last book and I just needed a minute to sit down before the last little bit before the finish. I sat down on the log and gathered myself as Bob jaunted ahead of us. As much as I did not want to run I knew it would be best. We quickly came to a sandy section that led through a narrow trail.

   Shelly and I started to power walk as Bob felt better running and told us he would wait for us at the last hill so we could finish together. Soon we caught up to Bob who was a little ways up the hill and running backwards up the hill as he turned around to welcome Shelly and I on the last "little" hill.

   Nearing the top, all of my aches and pains suddenly disappeared. A loud WHOOOP came from Kevin at the finish as the other runners and spectators cheered us into the finish to ring the bell.

   I quickly changed and shortly after our former group member Matt came in as we cheered him in and congratulated him on his finish.

   This run was an incredible experience for me. I met so many amazing runners and new friends who continue to inspire me to push my limits. I will definitely sign up to do this course in the future which ranks in the top races I have done.

Chatting with Ed after the run

   Pushing though to the end while being somewhat uncomfortable most of the time and listening to how my body reacted taught me a lot about myself. By conquering my unrelenting doubts about finishing I had a great group to keep me going and in the end the muscles have recovered. The aches have healed. And most importantly I realized there is little that can withstand my determination to succeed once I conquer myself.

The bell

Zumbro 50 Mile Run

"Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience"- Ralph Waldo Emerson
 
   My first ultra. I was feeling confident, well trained and ready to go for the Zumbro 50-mile endurance run midnight start. Making my way to the starting area with my mom I noticed something was off. Of course, I had waited until the last minute to fill my water bottle with my nutrition mix I had planned on using for the entire 50-miles ahead of me. Walking over to the start/ finish aid station drop area I could not find my drop box anywhere; I began to panic.

   Moments earlier my girlfriend had left to get a good nights sleep to cheer me on in the morning and with no cell phone reception I had no way to reach her. I thought my mom could quickly drive up to an area to call my her and bring my drop bag with all my gear back to the starting area. My mind began to scramble for a solution and for some reason I thought calling my girlfriend would not work and began wondering how I was going to get though the lingering 50-miles that lie ahead in a completely different way than I had planned.

   Beep... Beep beep... Beep. I woke in a panic as I got out of bed and shut my alarm off. As I laid back down and took a deep breath I was relieved it was Monday morning and it was just a dream. It was only the first morning and I was already having dreams about unnecessary anxiety.

   I'm not the kind of person that gets all caught up in over thinking things, which was weird in this situation, but good it happened early on in the week; leaving time to calm my mind. Luckily the next couple days flew by and I was able to relax and focus on knowing what I needed to do and going with the flow instead of fearing what could go wrong.

   The plan was simple: no watch, no headphones, run when I could, walk if I had to and live in the moment.

Lap 1
The Start - The Rush - The Middle Of The Night

   With 20 minutes to the midnight start, runners began to make their way out of their warm cars and gathered around the fire. Race Director John Storkamp began walking through the growing crowd of people with a traffic road cone, directing everyone to the start area as if he were herding sheep.

   For some reason at the beginning of most races I somehow end up towards the front and
of course this race was no different. The 100 plus runners began to gather around the start area where Race Director John Storkamp began distracting us with a short pre-race speech.

Everyone gathered at the start. The calm before the storm.

    "Alright, am I going to hear another wimpy yell or are you going to give me one of those 'Braveheart' yells?!"

   Everyone yelled as loud as they could and at the same time John began counting down from and yelled "GO!". For a brief second everyone just stood there and looked around at each other, confused as if it was really time to go. John's brilliant pre-race distraction worked and we were off.

   Making our way through the winding trail my feet were completely numb from standing around in the chilling 34 degree temp and felt like bricks as I cruised along with the rest of the group. I knew I would warm up quickly within the first mile since it was pretty much all up hill. Snaking our way through the woods to the first overlook over the start/ finish area I glanced over the cliff and for the first time realized I was actually going to run 50-miles.

   I took a second to look back down the trail, headlights littered the trail in a snakelike pattern winding through the dark woods as runners hooted and hollered up the hill.

   For a majority of the first couple aid stations everyone stuck together. Jumping back and fourth over the mud trails, knowing later in the day this would not be possible I did not care. I was living in the moment.

"Live in the Moment"  A reminder I carried throughout the race.

   Well into the first lap, after the last of many big climbs I steadily ran up a slight incline which lead to an open field revealing the biggest-orange-yellow-moon I had ever seen in my life. Absolutely amazing.

   I did not bring a camera with me, as it would just be another distraction, and taking a picture of this amazing experience would not do it justice. Cruising along the trail along the open field, with nothing to worry about as the moon peaked over the hills in the distance, stars scattered even brighter in the sky. This is why I run.

    Down the boulder infested hill to the never ending mile and a half gravel road leading to the last aid station before the end of my first lap I respectively followed a 100-mile runner. Having over 50-miles and 18 or more hours on his feet I followed him as we made our way to the gravel road.

   With no watch and no idea of my pace I thought this would be a great opportunity to take some time to walk and talk to the oldest 100 mile runner on the course, Allan Holtz. He began telling me this was his 40 plus ultra marathon race and numerous marathons he's ran since picking up running at the ripe age of 45.

   I was in complete awe as these are the types of people that have inspired me along my journey to ultra running. To be able to attempt running 100-miles at his young age of 65 was simply amazing to me. The fact that numerous 50-mile runners galloped passed us did not bother me as I knew it was early and I had more than enough miles to get through. I was once again, living in the moment.

   As we continuing on he told me he has attempted the "Barkley Marathons" three times, which for those you that do not know is known as one, if not the hardest, 100 mile runs in the world.

   The Barkley was inspired by race director and founder Gary Cantrell after hearing about Martin Luther King, Jr's assassin James Earl Ray escaping from prison, and making it only 8 miles after running 55 hours in the unforgiving terrain in Frozen Head State Park near Wartburg, Tennessee. To this day only 14 out of over a thousand people have completed the 100 mile distance, it is no walk in the park.

   As temperatures dropped in the depths of the hills of the Zumbro bottoms in the middle of the night my fingers began to freeze. As much as I wanted to keep talking I know I had to keep moving to warm up. I wished my new friend good luck on the rest of his race and trotted off.

   Shortly after I completed my first lap in 3 hours and 26 minutes, well under my 4 hour goal, I could have worried my suicide pace would catch up with me later, but instead laughed and thought to myself, "that was fun".

Lap 2
The Journey Continues

   I took a second to grab a chia bar from my drop bag and stuff it into my shirt pocket as a fellow 50-mile runner, whom I have ran with before, joined me for the first few miles of my second lap. We chatted for a bit before we wished each other luck as I pushed on.

   By this point I was feeling extremely well. My nutrition was right on and I knew I was close to the first aid station on the second lap. Once I trotted down the hill to the aid station the music was still bumping and the amazing volunteers worked like a Nascar pit-stop, meeting all the runners needs.

   I was quickly on my way, and into the welcoming forest across the bridge. By this point everyone was spread out and I was on my own. As coyotes howled in the distance I took some time to think about not fearing what could be watching me from a distance in the dead of the night, but accepting my surroundings.

   I let my steady breath relax my thoughts, hypnotizing my motion and just letting things flow naturally. Owls hooted in the distance as the darkness of the forest welcomed me.

   Coming up on the second aid, the miles started to catch up with me. I took some time to stretch my legs and warm up for a few minutes by the fire. The next section was one of the flatter sections that would loop around to the same aid station before leading to, what I thought, was one of the hardest and longest sections of the course.

   After gathering myself around the fire I knew I had to get going otherwise I may have stayed there all night. Alone once again the next section quickly passed by and I really began to feel the miles catching up with me.

   An old saying goes, "The Darkest Hour Is Just Before The Dawn," and this definitely proved to be what I was going through just before heading up Ant Hill. Slogging up the rocky incline I glanced over to my left and noticed a subtle orange glow outlining the hills.

   Eventually I reached the top and a group of runners were stopped dead in their tracks peering over the hillside. I made my way towards them and below lied a blanket of fog covering the forest below. I couldn't believe what I was seeing. The sun was coming up on one side and spectacular fog hid the inevitable gravel road below. As I looked down at the fog the thought of grinding through the next couple miles to the next aid station completely disappeared. It was just the perfect moment I needed to help turn things around.

   I continued on and ran past another runner whom I had ran with earlier in the year. We quickly exchanged hellos as he stuffed his camera into his vest and we eventually met up again at the end of our second lap.

   This time around I was more on my pace with a lap time of 4 hours and 5 minutes.

Lap 3
The End Of The Beginning Is Near 

   I had debated at the last aid station whether or not to change, but eventually decided everything was going so smoothly I was not going to try and fix something that was not broken. I hooked up with my running partner and thought it would be a great idea to keep each other company through the last lap, melting the miles away, even it was for a little bit.

   After the first aid station I once again found myself running alone, but was in good spirits and moving extremely well despite some lingering cramps in my legs waiting to strike like a coiled up cobra. Every time I felt the muscles tighten in my legs it was a good reminder to drink, which seemed to work throughout the entire last lap.

   I quickly caught up to my running partner and we blasted through the next section before reaching the last aid station. I knew the next section would be brutal, with one last big climb and extremely technical downhill leading towards the flat, mind numbing, gravel road.

   Hiking my way up the hill I caught up to my running partner and he jokingly said he thought he'd get a lead on me, but the hill rendered him useless, especially having over 40 miles on his legs. We chatted for a bit, wondering if anyone has ever run up this whole hill and just as he finished his sentence the first place 17-miler blazed past us.

   "Well, I guess that answers that question," he said as we laughed and continued our long climb. Once we made it towards the bottom of the hill we met up with another 50-mile runner carefully maneuvering his way through the winding trail.

   Feeling good, I ran on as my former running partner and the other guy visited. I quickly filled up my water bottle and slipped on the coolest shirt I own and trotted onto the finish. With just under 3 miles to go, I knew I was actually going to do this.

   I decided to push within my inevitably cramping legs, knowing I only had to suffer a little bit longer. As I made it through the last winding section and back onto the small road, around the corner I could see the white sign directing runners to the trail that led to the finish.

   I let out the loudest yell I could muster as all the pain disappeared and I ran past the volunteer radioing my bib number to the finish line. As I ran across the open field I was suddenly struck with an unwelcoming tightness in my hamstring.

   I knew I needed a moment to stretch this bad boy out and made a dash for the finish as spectators cheered me on. Nearing the finish I quickly located my parents, girlfriend and her parents cheering me on as I crossed the finish line, 11 hours and 32 minutes.

   Everything blurred together at this moment. I think I yelled as I shook John's hand and thanked him for this incredible experience. I was quickly met by one of my running friends, whom I had ran with all winter as she screamed and congratulated me on my finish.

   I made my way over to my family as they too congratulated me on this incredible accomplishment. This is why I run.

Finished in the coolest shirt I own.

The incredible crew I ran with all winter

   The lingering soreness and adrenaline has dissipated, but the feeling of concurring myself and my limits will last forever. This experience has been something I have worked for and wanted for a long time. It's not about the miles traveled, but the experience. I have found that by looking past what many see as impossible, past fear, is everything you have ever imagined.

Philosophy - Running - Pre Zumbro

What makes a lion a lion?

   Ferocity, hunter and fearless are a few things that may come to mind. From a survival perspective without food the lion is nothing.

   Learning, failing, succeeding and surviving. Without these vital pieces to the process the lion is nothing more than the once careless grazing gazelle it chases.

   The process. Embracing the process is something I have grown to accept as a part of who I am, how I carry myself on a day to day basis and understand more as I shape my future.

   At a young age I was fortunate enough to learn in order to get what I want and to really appreciate everything I have things do not come easy.

   Without the process I would be just as careless as the gazelle grazing in the field.

A Writing Hiatus Caused By Some Wonderful Winter Running

   Months turn into weeks. Weeks turn into days. Days turn into hours. With less than 24 hours until my first 50 mile run, I'm suddenly stuck with a moment of how far I've really come in my short two years since running my first 5k.

   Throughout the past winter months I have met some incredible people who have helped push me as a runner and for some odd reason, after some thought and many miles in the crippling cold, I decided to sign up for a 50 mile race.

   For some time, I have had the mindset to eventually run an ultra distance race (more than 26.2 miles), but was aiming for a race later in the year, then things changed.

   On a brisk day in January, after hitting the wall at 20 miles, which was my longest run to that date, I still had a daunting 2 miles to run home. Standing in the parking lot with the group I religiously ran with throughout the winter, I took a short rest, made plans for the next days run with them, filled up my water bottle and headed home.

   Sometime during the lonely remaining miles home the thought of signing up for a 50 miler crossed my mind. Perfect timing.

   In regular-weekend-post-20-mile-fashion I instantly laid on the floor and put my legs in the air on the wall, still contemplating this crazy thought of signing up for my first 50 miler.

   After showering, eating and relaxing for a bit I turned to my girlfriend and said, "I think I'm going to sign up for the Zumbro 50 miler".

   "DO IT!" she replied. I was not surprised by her excited response since she has always been supportive in my crazy endeavors. The winter miles were coming along without any problems and I knew I would be ready in a few months if things continued to stay good.

   Soon I filled out all the forms, took a deep breath, entered my registration and shortly after received the confirmation email that I was officially signed up. The next week all I could think about was what the ---- did I just do.

   The feeling shortly subsided and I became slightly obsessed with gathering as much information as I could about the race and what it takes to run an ultra. I read numerous blogs and a few books on ultra running and organized a fun run with numerous ultra runners on the actual Zumbro course.

   I surround myself with as many like-minded and encouraging people as I could. I began noticing a lot of these crazies are just normal, young, old, everyday, family oriented individuals with an unrelenting drive to test their limits.

April. Rain. Snow. Typical Zumbro Fashion
   
   As I prepare for my first 50 mile run I find myself meticulously reviewing my list of essential supplies for what seams like the 100th time.

   For a brief second, out of the corner of my eye on the wall, I notice a quote I live by that helps me on a daily basis, "Go That Extra Mile".

   Written with a red Sharpie and a carefully colored black background outlining the letters, this quote has been around since my college days. Whenever I felt like not studying for a test or if I'm having a tough day for whatever reason, this quote has somehow found it's way of showing up.

   The sound of the rain catches my attention and continues to dance on the streets outside. I take a moment to look out the window as the snow blankets the recent drab brown grass.

   The moon shines through the few passing clouds as if to be a welcoming friend. In a few short hours it will once again be shining it's light over the Zumbro forest.

In a blink of an eye, rain, snow or shine. The wait is over. Zumbro is here.

Surf the Murph 2014- Volunteering, Running and Inspiration

"You must strive to find your own voice because the longer you wait to begin, the less likely you are to find it at all" -Robin Williams as John Keating in Dead Poets Society

   Standing at the finish line of the 2014 Surf the Murph 25k, 50k and 50-mile race, looking up towards the star covered, cool October night sky a slight breeze brushed my face as I looked down and watched the time clock ticked past 14 hours and 30 minutes. 14 hours and 30 minutes since more than 300 runners had anxiously awaited for the starting signal to go off. 14 hours and 30 minutes since I began my unforgettable first (and certainly not last) volunteering experience.

   After the sun had set and the moon was comfortably surrounded by stars, an inspirational 57-year-old woman had only a few miles left before the finish line in her 50-mile journey. Under 15-hours prior, this daring woman, not knowing what was ahead of her in the next 50 miles stood along side many other runners at the starting line not knowing what was ahead of them. Not knowing she would beat the time cut of of her last 17-mile loop by 1 minute and finish what not many people witness or experience in their life.

   With the hum of the nearby lights shining through the trees I stood patiently, staring down the endless trail I too had ran a few short hours prior. Off in the distance I notice a flicker of light between the bare tree-shadowed trail. Wondering if it was her; the final runner to cross the finish line at the 2014 Surf the Murph 50-mile race?

The Beginning of an Ultra Unforgettable Day

   The day for me started just as early as it did for many other volunteers and runners. One beep of my alarm clock and I was out the door by 4 am. A quick coffee stop, 10 minute drive to the parking lot and a short walk to the wooded trail entrance where I would spend my morning. Another volunteer and I walked down the road to the trail entrance and helped unload the already waiting truck with all the supplies we would need for the day. The five of us quickly set up our aid station in the woods as the first runners had already started and were expected to arrive soon. Being my first time ever volunteering I mostly just did whatever I was told and helped out as best I could. I quickly caught onto the flow of how the aid station worked taking in as much of the experience and information as I could.

   The 50-mile race started at 6 am, just as we were putting the final touches on our aid station. The other volunteers and I got situated and waited the front runners to make their way through. Just before 6:30 am, off in the distance, a head lamp flickered between the trees as the first runner made his way up the trail. The runners were only 3 miles into the race by the time they reached our aid station and for many there was no need for them to stop as most flew past us shouting out their number to check in and giving a quick "thanks for volunteering" shout out.

   A few minutes later the next small wave of leading runners went by as we alerted them they were only a few minutes back. The aid station staff and I were doing pretty good so far keeping everything stocked as no one had yet stopped to grab something to eat or drink yet. Just moments later the main pack had arrived as runners shouted out their numbers and made their way to grab a quick bite or something to drink.

   I noticed right away, in the morning darkness, some runners were struggling with where everything was on the tables as we tried to help light up the table with our head lamps as best we could and pointing the main essentials out. Some runners were mixing up HEED (like Gatorade) and water, spitting it out in surprising disgust and asking where the water was. I was quick to notice and began pointing out where the water was first as the next group of runners came in. Numerous runners thanked us for volunteering as the norm for us became thanking them back for running early in the morning and getting us all out of bed. It was probably the best parade I had ever witnessed that early in the morning.

A beautiful sunrise at the North Aid Station

   Just as the sun made its way through the trees and the craziness settled of what was left of the last 50-mile racers coming through the 50k runners whizzed past. I knew a lot of these runners would not stop, especially so early in the race and we would have more time to relax a bit. Now that the sun had made its way though the trees headlamps were not necessary.  We began making signs to help the 25k runners better distinguish between the assortment of beverages we had available.

   As the day went on I started to notice a few things that make sense now that I would have never thought could make a huge difference at an aid station. First, when setting out bread, cut in four squares, make sure they are cut all the way through so runners do not have to worry about taking the time to pull them apart. Also, only keep out a little bit of bread out at a time so it does not dry out. Separating the pop from the water and other drinks can be the difference in a runner being totally surprised after taking a big drink of sprite and thinking it would be water. As runners began coming in I tried to keep the bag of M&Ms or Skittles next to the cups they were in because nothing's more shocking than biting into some rock hard Skittles thinking they are M&M's.

   For most of the morning, after the starts, the runners came in one by one or in smaller groups. For one 50k runner on his second and final loop, looking extremely exhausted, he came into our aid station and some of the more experienced volunteers and ultra runners sprung into action to help. They go him a chair, some food and some endurolytes to help offset, what they theorized his problem was from high water intake. For the next half hour he sat in the chair trying to recuperate, hoping to continue.

   A female runner came in shortly after and had tweaked her knee on the tough 3 mile section before the aid station. Since it was almost time for our shift to end at the aid station another volunteer leaving offered to give the two runners a ride back to the start. Not an easy decision, but probably the best they accepted and were on their way. Before I left I grabbed a sandwich that was provided for the volunteers and packed up my bag to head to the start in hopes of running a lap either by myself or another runner.

   Just before noon I had changed into my running clothes and hung around the finish line to watch some of the 50k runners finish. Another volunteer who was with me at the aid station in the morning was sitting close to the finish waiting for a friend he was going to pace. I thought about heading out with them, but did not want to wait too long as I was also scheduled to help clean up at 5 pm. I walked over to the aid station by the start and filled up my water bottles and headed out on the trail.

17 Mile Run (aka my longest run so far to date)

   After a few minutes of standing around I decided to head out and maybe catch up with someone along the course to run with. Down the leaf covered trail and back up a hill a runner was ahead of me and looked to be running well. I caught up to him and noticed he was running the 50-mile course. I ran ahead for a bit then figured I would see if he wanted to run with me for a loop. "Are you running the 50?" I knowingly asked just to spark some conversation. "Yep. On my third loop," he replied.

   It was hard for me to believe this guy was in the  midst of his first ultra, 30 plus miles into it, on his last lap and still moving extremely well. We were going at a steady pace, walking up the hills and getting to know each other a bit. I made sure to let him know I was not there to push him in any way to run more than he wanted to and tried to keep the conversations light as there was a lot of miles and work still ahead of us.

   Passing the first mile I jokingly told him he was one less mile less than he had to go a mile ago. Every few miles from then on I asked him how he was feeling. His response was mostly that he was doing good, but was starting to have some stomach issues as we made our way to the first aid station. As we approached the first aid station (about 3 miles from the start) I quickly went to the bathroom and told him to take all the time he needed and to not wait for me if he wanted to continue. He grabbed a few things to eat and we were on our way rather quickly.

   The next section of trail was a lot more run able than the first 3 miles. Less hills and a little bit of a rhythm going, we cruised into the next aid station. Around 6 miles into what I had ran so far I was feeling good, as this is normally the point of my shorter runs I would be done. We continued on, walking the hills and running the flats. The next section was a lot of open fields, narrow trails and some soft grass trails that were easy to follow from all the runners packing down the trail throughout the day. As we came upon the next aid station I could hear music and people cheering us on as we came in. I stood off to the side as my running partner grabbed some food and the aid station crew tended to him. I grabbed a small bag of M&M's before we left, which I think were the BEST tasting M&M's I've ever had.

   Right before we left I had heard my running partner say to one of the aid station volunteers, "I know what's on the other side of the road and it's not going to be good". "Don't think about it!" The volunteer yelled as we shuffled off into the woods. I had absolutely no clue what that meant and asked him what that was all about and he told me it was the roughest part of the race. I would find out later exactly what he was talking about.

   As we headed of through the next section I knew my partner was feeling little better as the pace picked up a little bit on the flatter section of the course. Back to a previous aid station, with a quick bit to eat for him and a water refill for me we headed across the road and into the woods on the other side. After a while in the woods I noticed some encouraging signs posed along the trail. Nearing a slight incline, or so I thought, I noticed a sign that said "embrace the climb". Oh crap, I thought. This must be what he was talking about to the volunteer at the aid station.

   Just before we started to make our way to the steep hike, he motioned me to go ahead of him. A narrow trail of tree roots, and somewhat slick, heavily packed, bald-leaf dirt trail lead us to the start of the gnarliest part of the trail. With somewhat fresh legs I trucked on to the top as I pulled my way up with trees and branches along the way. After a short break at the top I could tell he was absolutely thrilled inside that was the last time he had to climb that hill.

   Another steep descent and though some more narrow trails we were heading to the final stretch and the final miles of his incredible 50-mile race. Popping out of the woods and onto a road we trucked on. After short distance we came to a closed fence with no sign of the trail. In an exhausted and confused breath my partner said, "what the heck" as we looked around for any sign of a trail. I had noticed about 25 yards back a few trail markers leading off to the right with a slightly tilted sign that said "16-miles". We headed back and noticed the trail markers right away and were back on track. I apologized as he was somewhat on auto-pilot being a few miles from the finish.

   With one mile to go I looked over and noticed a slight smile on his face. As we neared the finish line we could hear the spectators cheering on other runners as they crossed the finish line. A lady was standing on the side of the trail and told us we were about 100 yards from the finish. Something strange came over me as we came around the last corner and could see the people shouting at the finish. Even though I did not run the entire 50-mile race I still had a great sense of accomplishment. Helping out someone I had never met, being there for support and running along side him for what probably was some of the hardest miles he had ran in his life, I knew this is what running is all about.

    Just before the last turn to the finish line I broke off and cheered him on as he crossed the finish line and met with him after to see if he needed anything. "I just want to soak this all in before the rush wears off," he told me. "You have done more for me than I could ever ask for". We talked for a little bit after and parted ways as I told him I might see him next year on the course if he decided to do it again, but I know that was the last thing on his mind.

I could definitely tell I had just ran 17-miles on a trail

Inspiration

   Standing patiently in front of the truck waiting to be loaded, I waited for the last runner to cross the finish line. Light flickered through the trees like firefly's on a summer night. I sign in disappointment as it is just another passing car along the side of the final stretch of the trail. I walked to one of the tables scattered with a variety of drinks and foods for the runners and start to put some of them away. I glance over my shoulder one last time and notice an unfamiliar bright light shining on the dark trail. "Here she comes!" someone yelled as the remaining volunteers and I lined up and cheered the last runner in.

   One of the race directors sprinted down the trail to help cheer her on and muster up the last bit of energy she had to run up the slight incline and around the corner to the finish. The moment she came up the trail into the beaming lights shining on finish line, I knew we were all witnessing something incredible not just in the sport of ultra running, but what the human body is capable of doing. Events like this prove that no matter how old you may be you are never too old or young to find your own voice or passion and anything is possible.

Final Thoughts

   My experience volunteering at this years Surf the Murph 25k, 50k and 50-mile race has inspired me to think and appreciate some of the little things running has to offer. By looking at the bigger picture and not so much at finding reasons to limit our limits I have found anything is possible. Yes, 26, 50 or 100-miles of 30 plus hours of mind numbing, continuous running seems like a daunting and pointless task to some.

   Many look for an explanation as to why run these ultra distances. Sometimes words are not always the answer, as many have been accustomed to looking for. Sometimes just being in the moment is all that is needed. I knew at the end when a mother coming around the last corner to see her kids waiting for her as they all ran across the finish line why. I knew by witnessing the woman announce she had battled cancer after crossing the finish line and pushed her limits past anything she thought possible why. I knew why, that day, every runner that toed the starting line decided to push their body to receive much more than just a piece of wood as their medal and sore muscles as they hobble the remaining yards from the finish line to their cars why 26.2-miles is not enough. The answer and journey may be different for everyone, but the end result and sense of accomplishment is the same.

Even the volunteers got special plaques