In four days I’ll be running 32.6 miles of the Northville-Placid Trail in one of the remotest areas in the Adirondack Wilderness. Having never been on the NPT previously I have no idea what to expect, other than getting bombarded by squadrons of persistent deer flies.
Wakely is a tough race. The finishing times over the years are evidence to the race’s difficulty. In Wakley’s 10 year history, only two runners have broken five hours in what is essentially a long 50K. The course record is “only” 4:54. I’m not certain what makes this race so hard. It has a fair amount of elevation gain but not a ridiculous amount. It has some very technical trails to slow you down but also some easier sections on old logging roads. I’m sure you lose some time filtering water and refilling water bottles in creeks and steams along the way but could that be much more than you would lose stopping at aid stations in a “civilized” race? I don’t have answers now, but I know they will come to me soon enough.
On another note, I’ve completely lost my motivation to run at the worse possible time. I knew it was bad, but I didn’t realize how bad it was until I looked back at my last five weeks of training. I’ve only run 12 times for a total of 64 miles and my longest run was only 10 miles! Not the best ultra training. My lack of desire came shortly after my 30 mile run on the Bay Circuit Trail in mid-June. I don’t think I was properly trained for that distance at that time and it took the wind out of my sails. Since then, I’m been waiting for a strong ocean wind to fill my mainsail. Perhaps a storm is brewing for Saturday?
Good luck Dan! Had a great time at the Vermont 100 pacing Mark Kruger to an amazing 21:45 finish for his first 100 mile run. It was the highlight of my summer so far!
ReplyDeleteI should be over at Lynn Woods tomorrow.
If I don't see you. Have fun negotiating the High Peaks.
-youngster-
Dan, I hear you. perhaps this will help....when we ran the GLER 50k my longest run prior was 10 miles and no training consistency. Just walk early and often. Though I'm guessing the terrain will dictate that. We are cool weather beasts, so the summer heat is our bane. Ice in the bandana, soak the feet to not over heat. I'll be thinking of you guys.
ReplyDeleteHey, just saw PY's comment above. Mark had an epic run...I hope by 2012 you are feeling ready to come to VT--to run, crew, pace....you know my offer....
Dan , remember
ReplyDeleteyour mind have control of your body,
with this advise finish your race and good luck.
http://fruitsjuiceforlife.blogspot.com/