The Forget the PR Mohican 25k and 50k - Volunteer report

 

Wow, what can I say about this weekend other than it was AWESOME!
I made some new friends, and I got to spend time with my wonderful Ultra Running family.
Most of all, I got to come home to the place I love spending time at the most: Mohican.

I got a call from the race director Rob Powell a few weeks back asking me if I would like to be in charge of the beer for the race. I didn't hesitate at saying: Yes!
I had to come up with a game plan for beer. I could have went many directions but I decided that I would get a sweet set up from Gordon Biersch Columbus. I ended up getting 3 different beers: Czech Pilsner, Maibock and their flagship beer: Marzen. All three were incredible!
I got to sampling all three while setting up the day before the race and next thing I knew, I was a little fuzzy eyed. I knew it was time to simmer down when I was talking to Lindsey Brokaw and noticed I was probably making an ass out of myself. Not a good way to make my introduction. Hopefully she understood that I was in "testing mode" with the beer. I had to make sure it was quality stuff!   ;)

Race Day:
Well, I didn't get any sleep the night before due to my good buddy Brian Musick. Thanks Brian.
It ended up being a volunteer drunk-fest of all things.
The poor girls staying in the Chuck Wagon with us were probably thinking: "I'm never coming around these crazy people again"
Samantha, Allison, Kim and Molly (and Rob) I apologize for the craziness. I can't speak for Brian though.  :)
Matt was an innocent bystander as well.....
Race day was upon us and I hurried into town to buy Milk and Ice. By the time I got back, the head was pounding, the body was shaking and dehydration was setting in -so awesome.
I ran around and got a few things done with the most important thing being re-hydration for my poor body.
My job was to be course sweeper and beer tender. Seeing how these lightweights didn't want any beer first thing in the morning, I decided to go around and take pictures and then chill out at the Chuck Wagon.
Adrenaline kicked in about race time and I was ready to go.

I met up with Joselyn and Jay (part of "Team Walker" for Badwater 135). We went straight to the brutal heart of this race: "Big Ass Hill". This hill will either make or break your day. It will only make your day if you go down it. On race day, everyone had to go up it....twice.
I was having an incredible day despite the constant pounding of the head and the nausea from the night before. I was hootin, hollerin, whistlin, taking pictures and cheering on these crazy people I love so much.
I think Joselyn and Jay were plotting to put me in a straight jacket if I didn't simmer down.
We waited until the very last runner for the 50k came up the hill. We wanted to keep track of our good friend and also part of "Team Walker": Luca Blengio so,we were off to the first Aid Station which was at the Fire Tower. I took many more pics there and again I was: Hootin, Hollerin, and just plain acting Crazy!
These people had me fired up and I was ready to be out there with them.
After the photo Ops, we hurried down to the Covered Bridge to witness the water crossings. It was here at this spot that everyone was excited to see the runners be punished. It was cold, cold, and really cold that day and the water was the same way. Some people loved it, others didn't.
I was yelling some encouraging words to many of the runners crossing the cold Mohican River.
"Hey! the guy on crutches ahead of you went across the river faster than you're doing it right now"
"Just swim across. Everyone else has"
"Hey! The water is not as cold as it really is"
"Suck it up! It's only cold water"
I do realize Karma is a bitch and I will get repaid for all of this    :)   I love you guys!!!!!!!   :)

Like a dummy, I wore shorts and didn't bring any long pants or for that matter any warm clothes. By the time my buddy Luca came through the water crossing, I was so numb and beat down. I could sense I was going to get sick if I didn't head back to the Chuck Wagon to get some rest.
I managed to get a little bit of sleep and when I woke up I went to check on the beer supply. Awesome. We still had beer. I really failed at this job but again, I am blaming Brian Musick for keeping us all up to party the night before. In hindsight, it was awesome!
Next year, I am hoping we have a good sized supply available and some sleep the night before.
When Matt came and woke me up later that afternoon I was ready to continue on my day. I went out and started sweeping from the Fire Tower to the start/finish area.
People just helped themselves to the beer. By the time I got back from sweeping the course, the beer was gone and some people ended up not getting any. I am so sorry for that.
I decided to go back out and finish up sweeping the Purple Loop (4.xx miles). I took my good ole time since this is my favorite loop at Mohican. This is such a special place to me.

The time I spent up there was so awesome. I came back even more happy than when I went up there.
I was especially happy to have gotten to spend some alone time out on the trail. Don't get me wrong, I love being around people but, it's times like this, I get to recharge myself and keep my spirit alive even more.

Now it's time to focus on training for "my training" for Badwater, DWD Hell, and Javelina Jundred. Did that make any sense ? Good. Glad it didn't!

To my new friends: Samantha and Allison:

Sam: You are a very talented person and your photos are awesome. I cannot wait to see and hear the final product. You were a woman on a mission this weekend and such a trooper to handle us crazies.
I need a tour of the Athens Brewing scene!!!! Hint, Hint....

Allison: Thank you for your help volunteering and allowing us to entertain you as well. I really hope we didn't scare you away. Let's run and have a G.B. Hefe real soon.

Rob: I must say you are a truly incredible guy to do what you do. I'm Glad I got the rare chance to hang out with you; my brother. I can't wait until we can run again. I especially can't wait to be a part of this incredible tradition next year.

Here is a link to all the pics I took this weekend:  FTPR Mohican 50k

Final thoughts from the author: "Those videos" at the Chuck Wagon will not be posted   :)

Patience Makes a Great Dog

As many of you already know, I have been gloating for the past week about my newest member of my family. My little Chocolate Lab named Bodie has arrived.
He comes to me in a round about way via a friend from Facebook.

His name is based on an Island in the Outer Banks of North Carolina named: Bodie Island.
My other Lab Buxton was named after a town on Hatteras Island just below Bodie Island in which we always stay in when on vacation.
Did I need another dog ? Short answer: No, or is it Yes ? I don't know......

This past week has been a true life changer or me. My Lab Buxton has not been happy about the new arrival. For the first couple of days, the puppy would sleep right beside me on the bed. (actually, he still does) and Buxton would either sleep in the other room or would sleep on the floor away from me.

This puppy is the total opposite of Buxton. He's rambunctious, playful, a little devious at times, but overall, sweet and good natured. I think he may need some obedience training, but so far, his potty training is going really well. We have our ups and downs but I think my patience will pay off over time. Patience makes a great Dog.

My Beagle Lilly has been a great big sister and is warming up to him more and more. I always catch them playing and laying together. It can only get better as time goes on. I caught Buxton and Bodie snuggling together.

I'm Back??????

I went on my longest run of the year this evening with my Sensei, my Big Brother, my Great Friend: Mark Carroll. It was a last minute decision to drive up his way since I had the night off and I was feeling really good.
Why not go for it. It was worth the drive up there even if we only did a mile or two, or three....

The past few weeks, I have felt like I am a way different person than I was even three month's ago. A lot has changed for me, but I am happiest to report that I feel extremely confident that I will be back to the running scene and being able to meet up with my running friends once again. I sure do miss them. I really do.
You guys/girls know who you are.

I'm going to take it slow. A lot of positive things WILL happen for me this year. I have not decided if I will running any Ultras this soon. I have signed up for two Warrior Dash races with my friends Julie Humes, Heidi Finniff, Cara Egeland...just to name a few.....
I am really eager to get back out on the trail. It is this place that I belong. I belong at Mohican.

First Post Back

Well, I blame someone in particular for starting this back up but, I will not name names (%M%a*r@k*C#a$r!r*o^l$l).........

Anyway, a ton of things has happened since my last post. It seems like years since then.
Yes, I did lose interest in the blog. In fact, it was the start to a miserable downward spiral to many things in life.
I was pretty bad off most of the summer. I was in pain nearly all the time. I eventually broke down and asked my doctor to prescribe something for the pain. I was told by three different, wonderful doctors that there was nothing that they could give me. I had nothing I could take. Talk about a dismal outlook on life.
All through this I thought about running and how bad I missed it. I was able to keep brewing, but not being able to run and workout was haunting me to the core.
I was really wishing I lived in my favorite state in the US (California) where I could be prescribed "a controversial substance". I was close to obtaining some, but in the end, things turned around for me.
I'm actually glad it never came to fruition. I have a great job and a great life. Why chance messing it up despite being in pain.
In late October I started feeling much better. I had stumbled upon something that has really turned my life around. The meds I was taking before made me really sick so I decided to stop taking them. I broke down in October and told my doctor that I wanted to get back on them to at least feel good 1-2 days out of the week.
I found out by taking the meds every day as opposed to twice a week, I was able to keep the level of medicine in my body stable and thus work more effectively. I will say since November I have only had 1-2 headaches and they were caused from drinking one too many pints the night before.
Today, I feel stronger, smarter and more ready than ever at not just running, but life in general.
I'm still recovering from nagging injuries that never seemed to heal but, it is my hope that I will slowly ease back into running and possibly some Crossfit again. I'm addicted to this stuff.
I feel like a race car (slow one) just sitting in a garage and not out racing.
As I type this off the top of my head, I am assuming I will pick up where I left off: Running, Brewing, my Black Lab and being a smart ass. What else is there?
Why this Blog name? Well, I feel like I have been given a second chance to catch my breath and to continue down my chosen path in life. My destiny is being unraveled right before my eyes.

I may surprise you by my current outlook on life and I may unveil some things that may seem off the wall. In the end, I really don't care what is perceived of me. I can say I am becoming a much happier person in life and my outlook altogether is positive. Thanks to my big brother Hal, I think I have discovered the true me and no longer question why I think differently from others. All I ask is that you have an open mind.

It's time to live Life.

Last Post

I know I haven't updated this blog in quite some time. To be honest, I've lost interest in it, and I have a lot of other things to do besides update a blog.

I am going to start training again soon, but I have nothing planned as far as any races are concerned. No spreadsheets and training plans for me. At least not right now.

I'm still on Facebook, so I can still see you there but, I'm really not sure I'm going to keep facebook either. That will yet to be seen. I want to keep in touch with my fellow runners and brewers and that's it really.

I deleted Twitter a long time ago. What a waste of time.

There's nothing wrong with blogging, but it's just not for me. I hate to feel like I am bragging about something I have nothing to brag about. :) Believe me, I am not a bragger.

My health issues I've had are still ongoing and yet to see a true outcome. None of it is life threatening, it's just a matter of it sucking the life out of me. :)

No, really, it's all going good.

I tell you, looking back through my blog, I've had some great times.

Anyway, I really appreciate all who have followed and supported me.

It's time to move on............or is it run on and brew on?

Where have you been?

I know, I kinda dropped off the face of the earth for a little while. I needed some serious down time.

A wise man told me that we need to do this at least once a year. I replied: "This is the first break I've taken from running since I started in 2004." I took up my last 11 days of vacation, and tonight I go back to work.

I have gotten a lot of stuff done around my house while being off work. I need to go back to work just get some rest.

A lot of you know that this year I had faced a huge struggle with headaches and injuries. The injuries believe it or not is caused by what is causing my headaches. I have a Macro Adenoma Brain Tumor. It is the size of a small lemon, and is located right on my pituitary. Sounds complicated and scary. The one part is complicated, the other part, not so much.

I'm not scared even after my second consult this week. The simply put it this way: "There's nothing we can do for you." I have one option: Surgery. If I go this route, they cannot get all of it out and will most likely return. The big problem is afterward, I would have to be on hormone replacement meds the rest of my life. Total suckage there.

Regarding the headaches, the tumor itself is not what's causing the headaches. The medication, which is a Parkinson's drug (Parlodel) is what knocks me down and laughs at me when ever I take it.

Then there is the anti-nausea meds, which sorta work, but knock me out when I take them.

I don't take pain meds other than Excedrin. I refuse to be on heavy doses of pain drugs.

As I stated, the tumor is not dangerous in that if it grows any more, then it can put pressure on my optic nerve and cause me to go blind.

The second opinion guy told me that the tumor did not shrink if at all. My thinking is, why am I still taking this medication. I think I might stop taking my meds here soon as I simply can't take the pain. It is easily 10x's worse that my worst ever headache.

I may break down and ask for something to make me comatose while the drug wears off.

My back feels much better. I took some time off from working out and running. My Crossfit membership had expired. I think I am going to go in a different direction with that.

I know a cool Cat that owns a Kettlebell gym and she's damn good. Her business Partner Dave Clancy is a Badass too. The name of their gym: "State of Fitness" in Gahanna.

I'm not sure CrossFit will be something or me to do in the immediate future. Don't get me wrong, CrossFit will be incorporated for sure.

I have been bad about reading blogs.....my apologies.

Hope everyone has a great Christmas.

Let me know how you all are doing.

California Makes Everything Better

After some much needed relief from the Arizona debacle, my friend Bret and I hopped a jet to Los Angeles. I had never been to California and knew I just had to make the trip while out west. Our final Destination was just north of Malibu at a campground called Thornhill Broome Beach. It is the only place on the California coast that you can camp right on the beach. We arrived after sunset, but I was able to snap off a few of many pictures to come. After scouting over a camp site or two we headed into Oxnard California for some supplies. This is where we felt like fish out of water. Everything was so busy. We had to just take everything in stride. We finally made our way back down to our campsite, we set up everything and were fast asleep in our tents in no time.
The next day, I was up at 5:00AM watching the sun come up over the mountains that lined the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Just like Arizona, the sunrises and sunsets were amazingly colorful and always worth getting up for to see. I was a little sore the next day but my back and feet were hurting the most. I was lucky enough to have an inflatable mattress to lay on the entire trip. We were quick to set off to explore our home for the next few days. We made a beeline to the closest Starbucks in Malibu for a Venti 1/2 decaf Mocha with whip. These were breakfast and possibly lunch for the next few days.
After some caffeine, we drove around checking out a few beaches. Our first stop was El Matador Beach. I had read it was an awesome beach and all the reviews didn't lie. I had a little trouble walking down to the beach as the decent was a little steep. Anyway, the beach is beautiful. Turns out a couple of days later Maria Carey was on the same beach shooting a music video. We never saw her and actually didn't know why there was such a security presence and what all the movie production vehicles were for. We even saw paparazzi staked out on top of their vehicles with long telescopic camera lenses. We asked some locals and they said it was so common that they ignore it anymore.
In fact, they were shooting a commercial right at our campground and the surrounding areas including the PCH. They had been shooting for a couple of days and we didn't know what they were doing until we were caught at Point Mugu by the camera crew and couldn't leave. We asked them and they said it was a commercial for Nissan. They had the entire Nissan production vehicles lined up driving up and down the PCH for shots to be used in the commercial. The first day we noticed this, there was a helicopter buzzing our campground at 6:00AM and the surrounding canyons and beach for camera shots.

We were out driving one day and we took a wrong turn and ended up down by Malibu High School. It was there I spotted Bruce Willis driving a Black Mercedes. He had a couple of other people in the car with him. Looked to be kids. Anyway, I wasn't sure it was him at first, but the more I thought about it, and when I talked to other people, they said it was him. Apparently they see him all the time in Malibu. There was no mistaking that face.

After El Matador Beach, we ventured down to La Peidra beach and took a look at the wonderful views the coast had to offer. All day we ventured up and down the PCH taking in the stunning views of the coast. The nights came quick and at times we found ourselves still on Ohio times and we were eating dinner at 3:00 and in bed by 7:00. We felt like old people.

I was finally here. The place I have wanted to visit since a kid. Now, I felt like that kid again. All we had were the coast, mountains, and all the views we wanted. What else could I want?

After a couple of days, my feet and back were feeling up to walking a little and I decided I wanted to walk on some trail. We went right across the street and walked the La Jolla Trail to the campground. In all, it was about a 5 mile round trip. I loved this trail as it was an unimproved trail with a lot of narrow rocky sections and drop offs. We saw signs warning of Mountain Lions and Rattlesnakes. We didn't see any, but we did see a few caves that could have been home to anything. I ended up getting a little sunburned that day and was thankful the next day brought cool winds as I had to wear a long sleeve shirt most of the day.

We went down to Point Dume and had a blast looking out into the bluest water I have ever seen in person. I was a little bummed that the Pacific Ocean was so cold. We had warm days that we could have went swimming, but apparently the Ocean around there doesn't get above 64 degrees. About all I could do was wade around in the water. One day we were there I decided to wash all my dirty clothes in the ocean.

You'll have to look through my California pictures but there are a few shots of my California Laundry Service and me getting nailed by a huge wave coming in on the beach. The seafood was a must have. I really love North Carolina style seafood and just had to try what the West Coast had to offer. We stopped at Malibu Seafood which did have decent food. By far, our favorite was Neptune's Net. We went there two days in a row. I had the Neptune's Platter. How could I not? The next day was a Lobster Roll which was incredible.

I was really astounded by how friendly everyone was. I think this is due to how incredibly awesome California is. I love this place, and I cannot wait to get back there. We had not one incident with anyone. We did witness our shuttle driver to LAX nearly go "Postal" on a driver of another car who cut her off. So funny.

We had a total blast in California. Absolutely no stress at all. I had never slept so good in my life. I went to sleep and woke up to the surf crashing on the beach just 30 yards from our tents. The weather couldn't have been more perfect. Seemed everything fell in place for us.

Every morning, I walked out of my tent and watched the marine wildlife go about their daily business. I saw Sea Otters, Dolphins, Sea Birds of all sorts, Starfish, etc. The first morning I woke up to watch the sunrise, I saw just 40 yards from me, a head pop out of the water and then quickly disappear only to resurface 50 yards away. It was my first Sea Otter spotting. Totally awesome. The dolphin sightings were so common throughout the day. I was so glad we didn't see any snakes or Mountain Lions. Totally cool with that.

California has a lot to offer and I am sure it will quickly become a mecca for me with Ultra races and vacationing.

Okay, this Blogger tool totally sucks. For some reason, it won't let me move my pictures around. I have wasted so many hours trying to type this up and add pictures. Please see the links below for all of my pictures. I am warning you, I took around 1400 pictures, plus they are no longer in order.

Arizona & Javelina Pictures

California I Pictures

California II Pictures

California III Pictures

Javelina Jundred Race Report

Okay, I gave a short version earlier in the week while I was in Arizona waiting for my flight to California.

Honestly, I hope this doesn't end in a long ramble, and I hope to keep it positive. Scratch that, I am going to keep it as positive as I can, thus making it a short race report. Actually a lot went right but just enough went wrong that put an end to my quest for a buckle.

First of all, I love Javelina Jundred. It was an incredible race. Jamil Coury (race director) went out of his was to make a great race happen. The volunteers were awesome. They fed us well and allowed me to harass them as I do all volunteers during my races.
This event is highly recommended.

It is a runnable course...if you are prepared for the temperature changes and are able to run in sand. Your energy expenditure is increased just with the sand alone. It gets hot and it gets cold. There is virtually no shade. THIS COURSE IS NOT FLAT! I REPEAT, NOT FLAT! Coming from Ohio and what we run here, IT IS FLAT! But, IT IS NOT FLAT! Got it? : )

Arizona is stunningly beautiful and amazingly wild. You almost forget how wild things are until you are in the dark with no headlamp and you hear coyotes about 5 yards from you carrying on with one another. I'll get to that story later.

The wildlife diversity was amazing. I saw Road Runners, Jack Rabbits, Coyotes, a Bald Eagle, Wild Horses, a Tarantula, a Scorpion, a snake (of some sort).

Pre Race

I decided to skip the pasta dinner as I didn't want another Dances with Dirt GB incident. I didn't camp at the Jeadquarters either. I am such a light sleeper that I didn't want to risk not being able to sleep before the race. Turns out, I still cannot tell you if I made the best choice either way. The night before was filled with being awaken by the freezing cold. I was not warm enough pretty much the entire time out in the desert at night. We had camped out in the middle of nowhere. There was no one else around for miles. I was in awe at how quiet it really was out there and at how cold it could get.

1st Loop:

I remember Rick Gaston reminding me, to not go out too fast. I also remembered the promise I made to Mike and Mark about taking the first loop as slow as I could.

The start of the race was like all others...except, it was the desert, and I felt like I was at a huge Jalloween party. (Yes, I know I spelled Halloween with a J.....it's Javelina! Pronounced Havelina, Confused yet?)

The sky was full of the many shades of Oranges, Yellows, Reds, Purples, Blues, etc. What a view!

The first mile was a walker as the field was slow to stretch out. Soon after a mile or so, I was running the little rollers while watching the sun rise. So beautiful. I loved it. This race was awesome. The trail was more than I had dreamed. This was it. What a freaking phenomenal experience.

I could see the front runners a few miles ahead way off in the distance making their way toward top of the first climb.

The climbs here go on for miles. The trail after the first 2 miles is nearly unrunnable because of all the rocks on the trails. I did my best to focus solely on the trail and to not look around and site see as I didn't want to end up tripping and landing into one of the many millions of Cacti and hitting my head on one of a few billion sharp rocks littered all over the trail. DNS...Do Nothing Stupid was my motto during the first loop.

The first AS (Coyote Camp) soon came upon us and I was quick to exit as I am not there to socialize. The volunteers by the way are like most other Ultras. They were Awesome!

In and out as quick as possible, and down the trail as slow as possible.

This next section of trail brought us closer to the mountains and the boulder formations. There were more ups and downs, and steeper climbs in and out of small canyons. Nothing major really. Nowhere near as hard as what we run at Mohican. I was just being cautious.

The back end of the park is where it started to flatten out a bit and the decent began. I came upon the second AS Jackass Junction (JaJ AS). Below is a picture of three wild horses running behind the AS. How freaking cool! I grabbed some water and some potatoes with salt, and moved out as quick as I could.

The decent into the Jeadquarters was not too bad at all. By the time I reached the Jeadquarters, it was getting hot. It seemed I had no warning about the heat. It went from Great to Hot in a matter of minutes.

At times, I felt like I dilly-dallied as much as I could. I think I did the first loop in 3 hours and 36 minutes. My goal was to stick around 4+ hours per loop.

2nd Loop:

I grabbed my stuff from my pacer/crew guy: Bret. The loops are washing machine loops. Meaning, you go back the way you came opposite of what you started.

So, I started the long climb back up to Jackass Junction. I took it easy on this section and walked the majority of it. The heat was coming on and by the time I reached the AS, I had drank over 40 ounces of water. By the time I reached the JJ AS, I had drank over 70 ounces of fluids! I was taking two Endurolytes per hour, but I still noticed I had some cramping in my calves even at mile 25.

I called Bret when I had about 4 miles to go and told him to fill my entire Ultimate Direction pack up with ice water.

When I got to the JJ AS, I was hot. I took a few minutes to gather what I needed and took off onto my 3rd Loop. I was pouring so much water over my head I decided to fore go the camera and gave it to Bret to hold onto. Turns out, this was a huge mistake because only 200 yards out of JJ AS, I saw a beautiful Coyote within 20 yards of me. Oh well.

I didn't have any sloshing in my stomach, I felt great for the most part. I grabbed a little food and headed back out. Maybe 10 minutes for an AS stop.

3rd Loop:

The Coyote sighting was about the best thing that happened on this loop. By the time I reached Coyote Camp which was 5 miles away, I had drained the entire UD pack that held 64 ounces of water! I was so worn down from the heat. My head was thumping something awful. It was worrying me a little as I never felt a headache like that before. My back was starting to hurt from the climb up to CC AS. I decided I was going to sit down for 10 minutes at this AS and get some fluids in me. Turned out to only be less than a 5 minute break. I just hated to sit there.

I went against one of my rules and drank a bottle of Gatorade and a bit of Coke. I usually won't touch this as it gives me stomach issues. This never had any affect on me at all.

Stomach felt great, head and back was not so well. I noticed I had severe salt stains on my shirt, hat and shorts.

I pushed on down the trail over to Jackass Junction AS. It was a slow go as my back was tightening as I wound my way through the small canyons. By the time I reached the AS, the sun was setting and the temp was cooling down. My head still hurt and the back was still at it. I decided it would be a short stop only for water and some potatoes. I was really doubting myself at this point as the head pain was awful. It was like the worst hangover headache you'd ever had and couple that while running. My back pain was bad too. I couldn't run more than a 100 yards at a time without either stopping or bending forward and walking. This ate up valuable time.

I wasn't planning on taking this long on this loop and I didn't have a headlamp or flashlight available.

It was dark when I left JaJ AS. The moon was out and it lit up the trail just enough to get by. I was a little creeped out at times as I could hear packs of Coyotes just yards away from me scurrying around and chatting with each other. One said: "Hey that runner looks tasty" "No No, He's too fat" said another. This went back and forth until eventually a little Coyote yelled out and said: "Naw, Naw Mang, let's git him on a Stick!" ; )

Okay, no ones reading this anyway so I can put that in here. : )

The downhill into JJ AS seemed to help out my back a lot. I came into the AS running and feeling not too bad. I wasn't tired much at all just hungry and thirsty.

I had a hot spot on my right foot and I decided I'd better have it looked at. I went to the medical station and had them look at and treat my foot. I thought there was a blister but turns out there was nothing there. Maybe I'll explain this later.

4th Loop:

This was where I had picked up my pacer as I wasn't too sure what to expect on this loop. I was so bad earlier that I decided it was best to call him and have him be ready to go out.

I took about 20 minutes total at the AS stop. I grabbed extra food and drank a lot.
By this time, my headache was gone and I was feeling great. We walked a little ways out of the AS to finish our food and drink a little more.
I decided to take it slow the first couple of miles. I was running and walking until I got to the first road crossing. At that point, my back was getting really bad again. The spasms were getting too frequent and I found the best spot to be in was hunched over like a 90 year old man who broke his back 40 years earlier. I couldn't stand upright much less run.
I had to hold onto my pacers backpack a few yards at a time. By the time I reached the JaJ AS, I knew it wasn't safe to go on. The terrain in the next section was too much especially if they had to carry me out. I tried to lay down on the ground and stretch it out. Some one gave me an instant hot pack which didn't help at all.
I laid down, I stretched, I sat there, I walked around. One guy even rolled my back out. Nothing helped.
My back was hurting opposite of the side that I injured two weeks prior. This meant that the other side was over compensating for the weaker side. It had just finally had enough.

This sucked so bad. I could not believe it. This is what an uncontrollable DNF was like.

I knew I could do it but, my hopes of finishing this race was gone. Damn It!

There was nothing I could do. Over, and done with. I was in good spirits most of the time, had no stomach issues. My feet actually felt great.

Up until the point my back started hurting, I was doing well, had no issues other than it was hot and I didn't realize until it was way too late, that I was dehydrated.

I'm not disappointed in myself. I cannot be. I did what I could and gave it my best but, came up 50 miles short. Not sure my exact time to 51 miles.

Thank you to Mark, Mike, Stuart, Luc,  for calling me during the race. To my big sissy for calling me to wish me well the day before.....I forgot to call you back.

Bret, I could not have gotten to mile 51 without you. I bet that was the heaviest piggyback ride you ever gave uphill. -kidding! it was downhill ; )
Turns out the Javelina course record set by Karl Meltzer was broken this year by Dave James in 14:20! I saw him running all day and the performance was phenomenal.

c

Exactly 50% dropped out of the race for one reason or another.

I did mention the course is runnable, but if you go out too fast and don't respect the course, you will go down. I saw it happen over and over as the day went on. I saw one guy, who eventually dropped at the same time I did because of the cold. He had 1 1/2 loops to go and I was just starting my 4th loop.

I wished I knew the temps out in the sun. Standard temperature is taken in the shade. It got up to 85 degrees that day...I think. Out in the sun it was a different story.

I know I am missing a lot of information and story content I had previously thought of.

California To Be Continued.........

Javelina Jundred - Short version

Okay, I DNF'ed at mile 51. My back gave out on me when going up uphill the last 3-4 miles before I dropped.
I had it in me, just couldn't push through the back pain and spasms.
This course and race is awesome. Highly recommended, but don't take it for granted. The heat will eat you up and the cold will leave you curled up on the ground crying (as I did see).
I have some great pictures I will share later.
Coyotes within yards of us. Kinda freaky, but awesome.
I will write a longer entry later when I get a chance.
Thanks too everyone who called me and wrote messages of support.
I'm not dissapointed in myself. I was in good spirts (most of time), had energy, I knew I could do it.
I had a terrible headache between mile 30-46, and my back was hurting pretty bad. I started questioning myself, but when my headache and back started feeling better, I started running again. When I hit that long uphill towards Jackass Junction, it finally was too much.

I know one thing, I am taking a while off from any races. I need to get a few things settled before I make anymore plans.

Back is not Back

My back is not back to normal that is. Close, but still having some residual pain. I took my pup out tonight to Sycamore Creek Park here in town for a run in the Arboretum. I wore my Vibrams as I didn't want to cross Sycamore Creek in my Trail shoes and get them soaked before I run my race. I started out slow and noticed my back was really tight. I took it easy and concentrated on lightly hitting the ground with my feet. I was a little worried as 1 mile approached, my back didn't feel all that great. I wasn't in a lot of pain just some radiating from my lower back.
I stopped and stretched a little on a park bench and it seemed to help....a little.
We left the Arboretum and headed out to the open soccer fields. I was pushing Buxton to go a little further so I could at least get in 2 miles. We stopped for a few photo ops, and met up with one of his buddies; an 8 month old Belgian Shepard named Tolkien. Seemed Buxton didn't want much to do with Tolkien as he tried so hard to get away from him a few times.

Anyway, we got back to the car and not sure what it was, but it seemed that last 1/2 mile I didn't think one thing about my back. Seemed it had loosened up a little.
I'm just worried what will happen over a 100 mile span. I may need to just suck it up and work through it. Enjoy the pictures.

He wouldn't cross the creek any further.....so I had to go back.

Tolkien and Buxton playing. He looks like a little wolf.

Seriously?

Okay, now I am totally freaking out. Last week, I was at CrossFit and we were doing Deadlifts.
Nothing major, I only had 275 lbs on the bar doing like 1 rep at a time.
I knew not to push anything since I am getting closer to my race. In fact, I was concentrating on good form the entire time.
The next day I was a little sore but not a big deal. I went to Crossfit that night and we were doing Turkish Get Ups. (Just google it.)
These TGU's are an awesome all over body workout in themselves. I was using a 35 lb KB. Again, nothing major.
Later that night, my back started spasming.
Every once in a while I get this, and a day or two later it's gone. Well, it's been 4 days now, and it's not getting any better.
I am so pissed off right now. It's my luck with my race looming, I may not be able to make it.
My race might become a volunteer adventure for Javelina.
At this point, I think it is only a Grade 1 strain, but how will that hold up over a 100 miles?
They say it takes about 1-2 weeks for them to heal. We'll see.
I've been icing, heating, cursing, massaging, E-Stim, Prescription Naproxen, cursing some more, etc....

Update:
On the other post from yesterday, I found out my bruising and swelling is caused from my medication I am taking. This is totally messed up. It's not an option for me to stop taking them.
My Endocrinologist said that my recovery from running will take much longer than other people. The bruising and swelling in my feet and ankle just won't go away overnight.
No freakin wonder!

Can I catch a Break Please?

I am writing this as the 13th day is now upon me for Javelina. I'm also writing this as I lay here in bed with a pack of ice on my lower back. I've been doing contrasting hot/cold therapy for it for a couple of days now.
Not sure really if this is a blessing in disguise to keep me from running until the race or what.
Also, it seems I continue to have foot problems. I went to watch the Columbus Marathon yesterday and when I got home, I noticed the top of my foot was bruised and slightly swollen. WTH?
I've been bruising really easily in the past few months. Seems like ever since Dances with Dirt Gnaw Bone this has happened.
I have no idea what it is.
Maybe I can tell my wife it is from too much housework?
Any questions, comments, concerns, complaints.....leave a post.

On saturday, it was 101 degrees in Fountain Hill, AZ. ................Cool it. Now!

Pup Run

My Pup Leading the way:

I decided to skip Crossfit tonight and take my pup on a run through Sycamore Creek Park here in Pickerington.

He was looking like he needed some fresh air and I need some too.

The weather here sucks as always, but it didn't deter us from going out.

We only made one circuit around the arboretum, and a quick crossing of Sycamore Creek. It was Cold!

We only went a mile, but it was a good one.

I went home and fired up the treadsauna. I taped up my foot and started out slowly. The temp was about 75 degrees but quickly climbed to 95 degrees.

Oh man, this sucked.

I was feeling it about mile 2 1/2. I was running about race pace, but in all, I felt at ease. I am hoping this is a good sign.

My hope is to get acclimated to this kind of heat. I looked at the Farmers' Almanac, and it was supposed be cool and raining at Javelina this year. We'll see.

Totals:

4 miles

1 mile with Vibrams, 3 miles on treadsauna.

My wife says.......

"This has got to be your worst idea ever"

?huh? -She must be smokin something 'cause I think it is the best idea ever!!!!

After some consultation with Mike Keller, it was decided that I needed to build a sauna around my treadmill to do some heat training for Javelina.
Right now in Arizona, the highs are mid to high 80's. Here in the cold Tundra of Ohio, it is in the low 40's. Yeah....worst idea ever? Don't think so.
So I build this "room" out of 2x4's and plastic sheathing. Then I put Mikes heaters in there and got the heat up to about 85 degrees. I walked/ran for about 10 minutes. It will actually work just fine. I have a few more things to do so I can really crank up the heat.

I will report back tomorrow on how I do with getting it really hot in there.

Beer and Bacon....something to settle the nerves

I suspect that exactly 24 days from now, I will be sitting on a nice California Beach with a cold Beer in my hand watching the waves come in, the sun setting, and hopefully having the privileged in telling Paris Hilton to get lost. Now, what I am not sure of is that will I have a Javelina Belt Buckle in my hand. Don't want to jinx myself.
I am nervous beyond belief. I started getting this way in the past week or so with the thoughts of the race looming in the near distance. Now that it's October, that nervousness has climbed a little more. I also suspect that it will continue up until the time I toe the line and start my race at 6:00AM MT on October 31. Once the race commences, I will relax and run my race. I will run my race as I see it. I will run my race to finish. Whatever hand has been dealt to me that day, I will go with it. I will DNS this race: Do Nothing Stupid. I will be smart and run as conservatively as I can while giving myself some room to breath for the cutoffs. I don't care if I am DFL: Dead F'ing Last.
I was looking over the Pemberton Trail pictures that Lynn David Newton took one day while out exploring the trail.
This trail is where I will be making my first 100 mile attempt. Now, I know I ran Mohican 100 this year, but my goal there was to go half way, and if I did that in the allotted amount of time, I would go as far as I could go. I made it 64 miles. Much more than I ever conceived.
This time, I am going to attempt to run and finish my first 100. Right now, with the weather changing, I'm nervous. The heat in Arizona, although mild at the time I will be out there, (and I don't give a crap if it is dry heat), it's still hot and will sap all your energy if you're not prepared.
The temps here in Ohio have dropped down into the 40's and soon will dip further.
Mike Keller let me borrow all of his Space Heaters, and I plan on building a sauna around my treadmill. I am also praying for Indian Summer to come and sear us like bacon.......mmmmmmm.......Bacon.....Sorry, I couldn't find a real picture of bacon :)

Anyway, I was talking to a young lady at Dances with Dirt-Hell, and she said be prepared for the heat at Javelina. Most people keel off from the heat. The finishing rate in the past years at Javelina has hovered around 49%. The odds are not in my favor 'cause I don't do well in heat. Although, I didn't have too many issues with the heat like so many did at Mohican. I never felt hot, let's put it that way.
I have a feeling I will learn a lot during this race. I'm doing my best to take in all the advise I can from my Veteran Ultra Crazies. I've decided to heed their advise and not make a long distance push of 60-65 miles for my final long run. It's simply not needed, and they're right, I won't recover in time, and I will just risk getting myself injured.
Well see if I have what it takes to dig deep and push myself past that buzzing pain I felt at Mohican. That pain was stupendous. I can't imagine it would be any worse. Can it?
I'm hoping for some good drugs that will be produced by my body over the course of those 30 hours....or less.

Totals:

CrossFit Workout:

30 squats

30 push ups

100 Flutter Kicks

WOD:

21-15-9 of:

Thrusters: (65 lbs)

Mountain Climbers

500 m Row

3 Rounds for time.

My time: 12:12

Vibrams and some Ninja trail miles.

I went out for a quick trail run with my pup at a local park here in Pickerington. I wasn't really looking for any kind of work out, it was more about getting my pup outside for an adventure.

I finally received my Vibrams on Friday and have been wearing them as much as possible. Today was a perfect chance to get them out on some sort of trail and do some initial testing.

The day before I CrossFitted in them and they did great. I ran a mile on asphalt and was doing Power Cleans in them.

To me this has been my best purchase so far this year.

When I got to the park I knew right away I was going to test these out in the creek that went through the park. I was walking all over rough terrain through gravel, roots, water and dirt trail.

I was amazed at how well the protected my feet. Now, don't get me wrong they weren't like my Brooks Cascadia, but they did offer some sort of protection. The water drainage was great and seemed dry in no time.

I tested them out on dirt trail, gravel road, creek beds, and grassy fields. All around they did very well.

After the run, Mike Keller called me to see if I wanted to go for a night run. If he hadn't called me, I probably would have been a lazy bum and watched TV all night.

We met in Reynoldsburg and went for a run on a trail that I cannot disclose. : )

Mike showed me his recent medals from the North Coast 24 hour Ednurance run and the Akron Marathon. Awesome! We chatted the entire time which helped keep the pace slow. I was in no hurry.

We ended up with 4.8 miles.

Totals: 2 Miles on trail with pup: Vibrams

4.8 miles: Trail

Same old Tune

I am totally lazy about blogging. I hope this all changes after Javelina. Seems I have nothing interesting really to blog about. I'm also slacking on the reading of other peoples blog entries. I have a lot of catching up to do.

I went to CrossFit today after about a week of not going. I am going to do my best to get there at least 3 times this week.

I've been working out at home, but it isn't the same. At least I am doing something.

Sunday I went out to Mohican with Luc, Luca and Bret. The plan was to meet Rob Powell at the CB for a 13-16 mile run.

Rob ended up not feeling well, so it was just us.

The weather couldn't have been more perfect. It was kinda cold at the start and you runners know it changes soon after you get going. The miles just clicked by as we were chatting with each other and harassing one another.

Fun times like this on the trail don't happen often but when they do, I'm loving life.

There is a new trail that Rob had shown us on our last run up there. The plan was that we were going to take the trail back to Bridle Staging and then back to the Covered Bridge. It would give us 16 miles on the day.

The trail was great. Pine needles were everywhere and made for a nice landing with each step.

At one point, I was taking pictures like a dummy and tripped on a root or a rock, and hurt my ankle that was injured months ago during a CrossFit workout.

Not good at all. I don't need this to happen before a race. So, it's back to icing, Prescription Naproxen and easing off a little.

After we got back to the Covered Bridge, I talked Luca to getting in the Mohican River with me to cool down. This would end up being a smart thing as the cold water helped my ankle.

Sunday totals: 16 miles on trail

Monday: Kettlebell workout: Swings, Snatch, Burpees

Tuesday: CrossFit WOD see below:

Warm up:

Run 1 mile

2 rds. of Cindy: 5 Pull ups, 10 Push ups, 15 squats

Skill:

Power Clean

3 sets of 5

WOD:

10 pull ups

10 ring dips

AMRAP 15 minutes

My score: 9 rounds.

Beer Run

Tonight I met up with Autumn, and her group tonight for a Beer Run at Hal and Al's in Columbus.
I've been wanting to get back to this group run for a while now, I just seem to always have something come up and I can never make it.
I was a tad nervous as the last couple of times I've done this beer run, I've ended up with a terrible headaches. I would have a beer and then have a headache before we reached our next destination. It kinda sucks if you are at a Beer Run and not drinking.
We started off at about 7:00PM, and clicked off a little less than a mile and a half to Roosters in German Village for a beer. Rita buys two pitchers and for some reason, I have to help finish the second pitcher. I had two pints of Bud Light and we were off to the next.

I cannot remember the next two places, and it had nothing to do with the beer. We ran past Schmidt's Sausage Haus. I wanted to keep running right into the place and scarf all the cream puffs and Bahama Mama's and German Beer I could get. Maybe next time.

I know I was having a blast and chatting it up with Rita Barnes who is a Mohican veteran and a Vol State finisher (a 500k Ultra Run across Tennessee). It was great to meet new people on this run. To me, this is what it is all about.

I do remember I had a Stella Artois for the first time and it was really good. The third stop was an IPA from Avery Brewing Company. It was a good IPA, but not my favorite. I think I am forever ruined by Stoudt's Double IPA. To me the best IIPA I have ever had. Funny I remember the names of the beer, but not the places we went. Hmmmm.

The final stop was back at Hal and Al's where we were treated to Pizza and I had a Rogue Dead Guy Ale. I wished I didn't have to go to work, but I had to get going, enough fun for the night, and not too much beer. I will be back in November for the end of the month Beer Run. I am sure it will be beyond cold at that point. I think we got down to below 50 degrees during the run.
It didn't feel like it really.



Totals: 4 1/2 miles: road

What an Awesome Sunday.

I met up with a great group of ultra runners on Sunday for another awesome day of running at Mohican State Park.
This group of runners consisted of some of the best around: Mark, Rob and Michelle.

Mark apparently didn't get the memo regarding the Mandatory Red Shirt rule for this run.
He was excused for this mix up cause he had the same shorts on as me and he went and changed into a Red shirt.
After looking at this picture, It appears that Mark and Rob have skirts on, but I cannot confirm nor deny this. I know I didn't. You be the judge.

The rain was coming down but the forest canopy kept us somewhat dry for a little while.
I knew I was gonna be in trouble, cause Mark was leading the charge up the Red Hill switchbacks and he made it look like it was all effortless, Rob was a quick second behind and Michelle seemed to be running in place gnashing at the chance to blow by us all.

"Man, I am in for it." I thought. "I hope they take it easy on me."
This rain wasn't going to help any with my lack of clothing. I was cold at first, but it was soon to change. By the time we reached the top of the hill, I was burning up, and wishing no one was around so I could take my shirt off. -I know, bad mental image.

Anyway, we were cruising along catching up with each others' lives and laughing so hard at the small talk and great stories that come from these long trail runs. There is nothing like being out on the trail with this group of runners. All of them are so inspiring.
It was brought up that every ones advise always sucks, but with these guys, I love to hear what they have to say because they have been there and seen it all.

A mile or two into the green loop we happened upon a old man who ran his car off a driveway bridge. The car was near it's flipping point and the poor guy was unable to move.
Officer Richard Noggin and Deputy Douchebag from the Loudonville Police Department arrived on the scene beating on their chest and acting like a couple of jackasses. Before they arrived, Rob and Mark were talking to the guy assessing the situation and trying to keep the poor guy calm. These guys show up barking orders and talking like they were King and Queen of the Hill.

Before any of us said something to set them off even more, we decided to exit the situation. We couldn't help anymore because the Calvary was there and they needed no help because they had all the solutions. These dumb asses are what give good Police Officers a bad name.

We had a hard time getting started again as we were freezing cold from standing around and the rain never stopped. The stream crossings were cold, yet refreshing.
My energy level seemed consistent throughout the run. I felt as good if not better than when we started. I was running along and I looked back and noticed at times I was alone. Opps. I was kind of in a zone and didn't think about it. I waited for everyone to catch up.

Now, this is nothing really because, Rob is coming back from a debilitating injury that he has been dealing with for a while now, Michelle was up all night with her duties of being a mother and working. She had maybe a few hours of sleep. Plus she ran 20 miles the day before.
Mark had ran a 50k the previous week with an incredible 5:17 for a (from what I hear) very technical race course. He was probably still sore and recovering.

Any of these runners, Michelle who is attempting to run a sub-3 hour race for Columbus Marathon coming up, Rob who ran the Green Jewel 50k in 4:12, and Mark who is one of the modest guys I know, but will kick your ass down the trail on any given day.
I was feeling good and just excited as always for being out on the Mohican trails and running through the rain.

Mark and I challenged each other to run up the biggest, baddest hill on the Green Trail.
I have never ever ran up this hill. When you think it sucks, it gets worse. When you look up at the top of this hill, you have to get it out of your mind that you have to go up there. It just goes on and on and gets steeper with every step. You actually cannot see the top of it.

Mark sent me a reply signal as he neared the top in response to me yelling "Come On Mark"
We were both wiped out, but we both ran up that beast.

It was a day I never wanted to end. I tried to get them to run the Purple loop with me, but in reality, I didn't have enough time.
I was headed to Peninsula Ohio to run with another group of runners at the Virginia Kendall Park which is part of the CVNP.

I met up with Brian and Jeff Musick. I pleaded for them to take it easy on me as I just ran 21 miles and drove and hour and a half. I was freezing up. Brian told me there would be no fast running today.
There were supposed to be more people showing up, but in the end, it was just us three.

We started at the Happy Days visitor center and I was feeling like an old man.
Each steps was a little achy. "Suck it up" I said to myself. "It's only 10 miles."

The more I run these trails, the more I like them. I'm envious of those who live so close to such a great park system.
One of these days, I will run the Burning River 100 and see for myself the Beautiful Jewel this park really is. Here is a picture at the overlook trail. You can see the Cuyahoga Valley in the background.

The pace seemed fast, but in reality it wasn't. I was still trying to warm back up from the run at Mohican. My body was too cooled down. I needed this push to help with leg turn over. We descended down a hill that helped a little. These two brothers are no newbies at running and have a feeling this run was effortless. I was shocked to see Jeff, who was only carrying a camera and no water. This is a sign of incredible efficiency. I suck down water like drain. I don't even think they were sweating.
We decided to cut the run short and instead of running, we'd head to the Winking Lizard for a beer. All we could think about for the last 4 miles was Beer! It was my fault, I got it started.
Then I started craving the "Hanson Burger" as you see below. I just had to get one.

After the Winking Lizard, I headed my sorry sore ass back to Pickerington which was 3 hours away. I was gonna attempt to make it in 2 1/2 hours.....which I did.
Today, I am a little sore but, nothing that is too bad. I will make today a rest day and get back at it tomorrow.

Totals:
31 miles on Trail

Loving the Rain

Not sure why, but rain seems to bring me outdoors more often than not. I am an inclement weather runner.....to a certain degree.
I decided to stay home tonight and follow the Rogue WOD posted on the Facebook homepage.
Since I love Clean and Jerks I jumped at the opportunity to work on these.
I skipped the warm up and since I don't have anyone looking at my form, I did a few C&J's just to get a feel for the weight. My bumper selection is lacking as I only have 45 pounders, so, 135 lbs for the C&J workout is was. This weight is about my limit for multiple reps on these.

After the run I hopped into my running gear and off for a slight off road (trail)/road run.
The pace was a little faster than I planned but, slow none the less.
This was to be a test to see how my foot would do with the bruising. Turns out it did just fine.
The trail I was running wasn't technical enough to fully test it out but, in overall the foot never hurt one bit.
The run was uneventful other than the pouring down rain and being dark and foggy. Made for a great atmosphere to run in.

On a side note, I am sure many of you being Ultrarunners and all have heard about the story of the two very experienced Ultrarunners in California being lost for over 3 days without food or water. Maria "Gina" Natero-Armento and her brother-in-law Fidel Diaz, were lost in the Cleveland National Forest. Search parties were sent out to look for them and many Ultrarunners in the community united in the search. When I heard of the story all I could think about was their well-being and the hope for their safe return. I had no idea who these people were but, it didn't matter. They are part of a tight-knit community of people who love run in the most extreme conditions. This week probably proved to be the toughest test of their endurance and instincts to survive. Please read more about the story here: Ultrarunners Found Safe

I was thinking about purchasing one of these GPS tracking devices for emergencies like this.Can't tell you how many times I have ran alone out at Mohican. There is no cell phone coverage out there and far and few homes and people to seek help from. At only a $100.00 it would seem like a bargain to save your life if you were stranded. Check them out:
SPOT

Totals: 4.5 miles
CrossFit WOD: Clean & Jerk with 135lbs
400m Run
AMRAP in 15 minutes
I was able to get 2 1/2 rounds.