Umstead 2011 - the review

Jimbo early on (Thanks Jade for the pic)

Today is the second anniversary of my first Ultramarathon – I did 50 miles at Umstead, it took me 11:48 for the distance, and I was absolutely thrilled with that performance. That race started off a whole new way of life for me – I have become passionate about the sport – I have completed other 50’s. 3 x 100 mile races, 24 hour races, 100k’s 50ks etc. etc. Along the way, I have met many people and made many friends. The biggest gathering of people I know is probably at Umstead 100.

This Saturday just gone – I ran another 50 at Umstead – this time over 40 minutes faster. I should be thrilled, but I am not – this time, I set out to run a 100 miles, and I also set a target (a tough target) of completing 100 miles in 24 hours. It didn’t happen though; a plain old common cold made for an uncommon experience. I woke up feeling slightly worse for wear on Thursday (I was kinda hoping that the beer I had had on the Wednesday evening was coming back to haunt me – yes, I was actually hoping beyond hope that I had a mild hangover. No such luck.)

By Friday, I had a fully-fledged cold – but figured I would be ok – my nose was stuffed, but I didn’t feel like I had a fever, and didn’t notice chest congestion. Game on.

6am start – lap one.  9 miles into it, I felt a dull ache in my right calf. This is exactly how it felt before the OBX marathon a few years ago, an injury that put me out for a few weeks. I had to stop to massage the muscle a couple of times. For a few moments, it did cross my mind that this would end my race, right there on lap 1. But after a minute or so stretching and massaging, I felt it loosen up and I was able to jog and walk. There was no real improvement, but it didn’t get any worse, so I took it easy for the rest of the loop. Back at the aid station, I used The Stick ™ to massage the calf, and it really did feel better after that. I was probably 10 minutes behind my game plan because of that. I did manage to make up that time on Lap 2 – there was a dramatic improvement in my calf, and I felt good, so remaining in my happy space, I ended up with 25 miles in about 4:50. I had decided previously that if it took over 5 hours for 25, then I would abandon the efforts for sub-24, and shift down a goal to “distance PR”.

My 50K split was around 6:05 – very thrilled with that, it is probably my second fastest 50k time, and I was still feeling incredibly strong. Shortly after that though, on the hills of N. Turkey Creek – I started wheezing and breathing became labored, and a cough developed. Oh good, my cold is moving to my chest. My pace dropped dramatically in those last few miles of that loop. At the aid station, I met with Leila who had come to the park to help out – she was awesome, and waited on me hand and foot for 15 minutes or so, while I tried to get a recovery going – I took in plenty of calories, in the form of OJ, coconut water and Myoplex. After the little break, I did feel quite a bit better. 

As I set out for lap 4, I pretty much gave up on any thoughts of sub-24 – there was though the possibility of two PR’s – 100 mile PR and 50 mile PR (with a secret goal of sub-11). Leila walked with me for the first couple of miles or so, the company was great, and I started again to feel that that all would be good, as long as I could keep moving.

The absolute highlight of my day came when my friends Paul and Katie road past on their bikes with signs on their backs. “Go Jimbo” and “Jim you inspire us”. Wow – that was simply wonderful, and really made me feel better, and put in spring in my step. Well, at least for the next 4 miles or so. Some slow jogs and plenty of walking. Until N. Turkey creek again – the hills – hills that I have power hiked dozens of times – really took it out of me. I was taking a break half way up just to get my breath back; it honestly felt like I was at altitude. When I was struggling to go down Powerline Hill – this was when it really started to sink in that it wasn’t going to happen today. Still, I had two possible goals to aim for. A sub 11hr 50, or at the very least a 50 mile PR. With something like 2 miles to go, all  I needed was two 13 minute miles to beat 11 hours. I couldn’t even manage that. So – I will just have to be happy with a PR of 11:07. I can’t help but feel disappointed though. Other than the calf strain early or whatever it was, I felt pretty sound “mechanically”. I ended up hanging out in the aid station helping out other runners – the carnage can be quite spectacular….. is that what I look like after 75 miles? Ugh!

Thanks Paul and Katie - that meant so much!

Two days later, and the cold is clearing up – it would seem its only purpose was to screw up my 2011 Umstead.

Very special thanks to Leila for helping out, to Connie, Nicole and Barbara for being willing but sadly unused pacers.

There was a great deal of awesomeness on display. Frank did his first 100k, Linda her first 50, Charles and Dan finished their first 100 milers, Fred, Ray, Dave, Meredith and Tammy also finished – as did many more. Others put in valiant efforts, but didn't quite make it.

Performance of the day though had to be reserved for Sharon – who not only completed her first 100 mile run, but also learned how to blow snot rockets. I love ultras, where else would that come into polite conversation?

This better be the final installment - Umstead 100

Umstead 100 part 1
Umstead 100 part 2
Umstead 100 part 3
Umstead 100 part 4

Lap 6 - this time my pacer is my friend Connie - we bumped into each other on the Jordan Lake trails a little over a year ago, she introduced me to Raleigh Trail Runners, and we run a lot of miles together by the lake.

After 100k, I think is where things start to deteriorate. As much as I have ran already, I am still facing 38 miles or so. It is now all about plodding forward, and staying mentally in the game, and refuse to allow thoughts of quitting from entering my head. This is where the pacers come in, and Connie did a great job.

Left right repeat.

A couple of miles into the loop, we had a similar 'incident' to the last lap. Baby wipes. YAY!

One thing I remember is about 4 miles into it, a runner was down, he was suffering from the cold, and was asking for warm packs. Connie and I couldn't help, but thankfully a pacer from a runner behind us could help. The poor guy was really not prepared. It can get cold in NC in March, even late March. I don't think we were much above freezing. We alerted the race staff when we saw someone on a bike, and let the folks at the aid station know - they had already picked him up, I guess he was OK.

At the aid station, it was time for a dumb moment. While Connie was getting me food and drink, I sat in front of the heater and needed to do a sock change. I took my time, because I needed a bit of a break, and the heater was so wonderfully warm. Anyway, dumb ass - I cleaned my feet, reapplied Hydropel, and then promptly placed my feet right onto the ground where they got covered in sand and grit. Start again.

Heading out with new feet and a filled belly I felt somewhat rejuvenated. A couple of miles later, I did notice that there was one piece of grit in my left shoe that was starting to give me bother - I decided that I would need to sort it out at the next aid station 3 or 4 miles away. Connie thankfully suggested that I would be better off to sort it out now - she was of course right - so I found and appropriate tree stump and cleaned my feet again and empied my shoes. This is why I wear a bandana! Much better.

I finished lap 6, in 4:11 - that is then a total time of 19:21 for 75 miles. Thanks Connie!

Another brief break while I ate a cheeseburger. I picked a new pacer - this time a volunteer pacer provided by the race. Rick did an awesome job - we managed to hold a conversation for most of the loop. I was feeling pretty crappy by this point. Nothing inparticular was wrong, I was simply beat, and was still facing a long run. Also, at this point, many of the people you run into on the out and back section are coming into finish, kinda makes you feel jealous.

Left right repeat.

Another break at the aidstation - I couldn't figure out what I wanted, I was starting to think I had taken too much salt, I was very thirsty and noticed some swelling, but I did need calories. Grapes, that's it. Rick got me a cup of grapes to eat, and they were just what I needed. Very refreshing.

On the whole this was an uneventful loop - I enjoyed getting to know Rick, he has since joined RTR, so hopefully I'll see him around at some other local runs.

Lap 7 4:28, 87.5 miles done in 23.49

Last lap. Still tired, but starting to sense that this is almost finished. New pacer, this time Blanca from the volunteer pool of pacers, and somebody else who I enjoyed getting to know. Blanca has done a few marathons and is looking to do some trail runs - she is thinking of Medoc marathon later in the year.

Not too long into this loop, daylight arrives and with it some warmth and of course a sense of accomplishment - there is no way I am not going to get done. Left right repeat. ALMOST THERE!!.

A brief pause at the aid station (remember the bad joke I warned you about??? Here it is..... " Woohoo 10K left, any fool can run 10K. My warm up may have been a little excessive though." Told you.). I took time to thank the aid station gang - really they all did such a phenomenal job, I can't thank them enough.

Time for the last stretch, I feel like there is a little wind in my sails now, and even jog some.

Up the jeep track for the last time, I thanked Blanca for the terrific job she had done, and then it was time to cross the line.

Done.

I got my buckle, it is probably one of my proudest possesions.

Jimbo finally getting his buckle from Joe Lugiano.

Lap 8 - 4:00, total time for 100 27:49.

Umstead 100 part 1
Umstead 100 part 2
Umstead 100 part 3
Umstead 100 part 4

Some more Umstead stuff............

Umstead 100 part 1
Umstead 100 part 2
Umstead 100 part 3
Umstead 100 part 4

Lap 5, and time to head out with a pacer. I was pleased with the 50 mile split of 11:32, my second fastest - and 16 minutes faster than last year. More importantly, I was feeling good, and ready to tackle the second half.

My first pacer was my colleague Mike. Mike is an Ironman tri-athlete, no way is he used to running as slow as me!

"Pacer Mike" and I - love the way he is strolling along, and it looks like I am struggling to keep up

Remember the egg? Yep, that came back to haunt me. Stomach cramps about 1/2 mile into the loop. Hmmm, decision time, 1/2 mile back to the start, 3 mile to the porta-john. No way was I going to run 101 miles. Let's make it 3 miles. This creates another dilemma run fast, you get there sooner - errr, but stir things up at the same time. Run slow (walk in other words), and you ain't likely to make it. I walked. And didn't.

Thankfully, the trails at Umstead are surrounded by trees, even more thankfully I carry baby wipes.

Feeling much better, Mike and I had a good lap. My pace had slowed dramatically, but to be honest I wasn't concerned about pace, just keeping going. By this lap, though, the hills were definitely getting steeper, and the feet were getting a little painful - but other than that, everything was fine.

Left right repeat.

The beauty of having a pacer is the conversation and the company which makes the time pass quicker, but more importantly, it stops the brain focusing on the miles to go, the pain, and no doubt it prevents thoughts of the shear stupidity of what I was doing.

Lap 5 time, 3:36. Total time for 100K 15:10

Umstead 100 part 1
Umstead 100 part 2
Umstead 100 part 3
Umstead 100 part 4

Umstead 100 - continued

Umstead 100 part 1
Umstead 100 part 2
Umstead 100 part 3
Umstead 100 part 4


All the nerves disappear the moment it is time to start. I was in no hurry, so for the first half mile or so, I was just power walking, loosening up and getting to grips with the task ahead.

At the one mile marker, I just knew that someone would say "99 to go". Even though I was expecting it, and heard it last year and at Boulder I still had to laugh at it - kind of an insane laugh though. It was still dark, but I didn't bother with my headlamp, I carried my Advance Auto $2.50 flashlight - and it did a great job.

A year ago, I knew nothing and knew nobody in this sport. This year it was almost a reunion of the many people I have met, Tammy, Jonathan, Susan and Fred, Marie, Ray, Shannon, Meredith, Tom, Tony, Steve and probably others that I can't think of right now.

"If you wanna run with the kool kidz, you're gonna have to take the ear buds out". So I ran a few miles with Susan Dummar, and I think it was the last time I listened to music the whole race. All that worry about how I am going to give my MP3 player a booster charge came to nothing. It was great to have company, and it really does make time go fast. Into the first aidstation - yay, FOOD!! I was ravenous. These days to avoid stomach upsets, I tend to avoid solid food the 24 hours preceding a race. I get my calories from Boost/Ensure etc. It works well, unless I do something stupid. Like eat an egg. (Remember this when I start talking about lap 6).

I have a wonderful knack of being photographed at just the right time:

Time was flying. About 16-17 miles in, I found myself passing and being passed by the same woman, About half-way up a hill we figure out that we are pretty much running and walking at the same pace, so we decided to hang out for a while. This was Julie, who was running her first 50 miler. ("I'm just doing the 50", she said. "No no", says I, "It's never JUST 50, 50 is still long way."). Julie and I ran together for the next 36 miles, she was great company, and I was thrilled to be a part of her first 50 mile race. It was all very reminiscent of last year when I ran with Frankie for a good length of time, except that then  I was the one doing my first 50. Julie ran very strong on her last lap, and we came into the halfway point for me at about 11:32. I'm hoping I have talked her into doing a 100 in the near future! That was a very solid time for me, (16 minutes quicker than last year, just 6 minutes slower than at Boulder), and a very solid time for Julie's first 50.

Holy crap I look like a moron in this one - but this is Julie and I at 50 miles

It's pacer time........... and time to head out into the night.

There is more to come......................

Umstead 100 part 1
Umstead 100 part 2
Umstead 100 part 3
Umstead 100 part 4

Umstead 100 - time to get some words down!

Umstead 100 part 1
Umstead 100 part 2
Umstead 100 part 3
Umstead 100 part 4

It's about time I start to put some kind of write up together! Actually, it helps that I am now allowed to remove my splint as of yesterday, typing is not so much as a pain as it was one handed. Still got the pins in though.

So anyway, Umstead 100. My second 100, my first 100 at Umstead, and my second run Umstead (50 last year).

Here's a few keywords that will remind me of what to write about as I go along:

Booze
Cold
Wot no music Jimbo?
Bad Eggs
Baby Wipes
Bad Joke
Good friends
Finish!

Right then "booze". It has occurred to me that lots of running and lots of booze have a similar effect on the body. Bear with me. You see, the first thing, the memory goes. I was out there running for almost 28 hours. If I piece together every single memory I have, it probably wouldn't amount to more than 5 hours. If I drank for 28 hours straight, there would be a similar reaction. I guess that's my way of saying "I forgot a lot, so excuse the random ramblings". Booze also makes me tired the next day, and can upset the stomach. It also makes me stumble around in the early hours of the morning and pee a lot. Sound familiar? Not sure they have rehab for ultrarunners though.

"Cold". On the Friday the day before the race, I just had to get there. No reason except to be amongst the other 'crazies'. So I left home at lunch time and headed up to the park to hang out for a bit (and get a great parking spot right next to the course). And check out the cabin. The cabins at Umstead are great, and next year I will reserve one again. It is nice to be able to fall out of bed and be at the start line. All well and good, but a cold front moved through early evening, and the temperature plumetted - close to freezing during the night, and although I was cozy [trying] to sleep, it was very difficult to get up, lube up and get ready to run 100 miles. Next year, I will remember to bring some kind of lantern

Pre race was all about getting some coffee in me and trying not to panic. The race HQ was pretty full, and there were plenty of people with flying elbows - which meant that the warm caffienated liquid I was trying to consume - well 30% went over me, 50% ended up on the floor, 10% ended up on the folks with the flying elbows. I managed to consume the rest. A second cup had similar disposal ratios. A third try - the urn was empty..........

A couple of minutes to six, and we all headed outside, and at 6 exactly - I think it was a gun blast that set us off - away we went.

More to come......................... but well, it's a toasty day in NC, and I am thristy - I wouldn't want to forget what I wrote now would I?

Umstead 100 part 1
Umstead 100 part 2
Umstead 100 part 3
Umstead 100 part 4

Umstead 100

100 miles. 48 Hours from now, I will be somewhere approaching 100K.

It's looking like the weather will be close to perfect, 63F and dry. I'll take that, but would probably prefer an another 10 degrees.

Tomorrow, I'll be packing before heading up to the park around lunch time, and I won't leave until it's all over.

I was remarkably calm till, oh, I dunno, about now. Nerves are kicking in big time. I'll try ice cream, perhaps a beer.

Aid station to aid station. Left right repeat. Beware the chair. Eat before you're hungry, drink before you're thirsty,walk before you're tired. Etc etc.

100 miles... it's a long way.

I'll see y'all on the other side.

Umstead 100 - 2010

April 2009 - Umstead, the place where I ran my first Ultra. The 50 miles that started this mid-life crisis of mine!

Fast forward 12 months - this time I will be doing the full 8 laps, and going for 100 miles, and my finisher's buckle. March 27th 2010 - I can't wait.

It will be my second or third 100 mile finish (depending on whether I sign up for Iron Horse or not), I have come quite a long way these last few months. Umstead, Boogie, Laramie, Medoc Meltdown, Grand Tetons so far, and between now and Umstead 2010, Lake Hinson 24 hr, Boulder 100, Derby 50K, Weymouth Woods 100K, Iron Horse 100 (maybe)

Apparently, it sold out in 4 minutes this year - I wonder if it will go to a lottery system soon. Quite amazing how popular this "Run in the Park" is.

Umstead - Recovery

I know I have already written, "Umstead - Final thoughts" - well more thoughts keep coming to me, so we will just have more final thoughts, or maybe some not so final, final thoughts

Let’s talk about my recovery. I made sure I ate and drank something immediately after I had finished, and I was lucky enough that the volunteer massage lady was free a few minutes later, so I had a massage, which I am sure helped to get some blood circulating. The massage was wonderful. She recommended an ice bath, and then a couple of hours later, a hot bath with Epsom salts. I did that when I got home - except my first bath was just a cold one, I don't think I'm man enough for ice :). Let’s not forget the Advil I took.

On the Sunday, I could barely walk, but forced myself to do a few laps of the living room every 15 minutes or so. My biggest problem was my quads, which I believe is caused by the downhill running, I will have to research if there are training methods or running techniques to prevent or at least minimize this problem. Monday, was much better, and Tuesday I was back to normal.

I think I recovered quicker after 50 than I did after my last 26.2, so I reckon I did something right - I'll be running again today, because there are no lingering effects after my walk yesterday

Umstead - The Official Results

It's official, I finished in the top half of 50 mile finishers. I'm quite stunned with that. In all the 5K's, 10k's, HM's and full marathons I have done, I have never once finished in the top half.

Wow.

53rd out of 109.

Official finishing time was 11:48:44. Delighted with that too.

My official splits can be found here: http://www.rgdweb.com/ultra/umstead/DataFiles/UM2009RunnerSplitsEach_20090404-097.pdf

The thing that has pleased me most about my split times is the pace from AS#2 on the last lap, to the end of the race. Till that point, I had been progressively getting slower (unsuprisingly), however for the last 5.65 miles, I actually sped up a bit, and was running more than 1.5 minutes/mile faster than in the previous leg. (I also hadn't run a split at that pace since the end of the second lap). I'm trying to think if that says more about me, or the wonderful potato soup that was being served on Lap 4!

The times, the final position are just the icing on the cake of a fantastic day.

Congratulations to all finishers.

Umstead 100 (50 for me) Final thoughts.

Here's me coming to the finish line.

Immediately after I finished the race, there was a photographer who is studying for his Master's. His thesis is about fatigued faces. I volunteered to be a model - I am curious to know whether I will look more fatigued or more euphoric...........

A week ago today, a nervous Jimbo was penning his final thoughts before Umstead. Now what is going through my head?

I have to say, my first Ultra marathon was an incredible experience. We were lucky with the weather, the course itself was very manageable, but what really stood out for me, was the people I met. I talked to more people in those 12 hours than I have in every other organized run I have done combined. Simply put, ultra-people are just nice people.

As far as lessons learned, there are a few.

• Do some walking training - walk early, walk often
• Apply sunscreen (I always forget sunscreen at least once/year, usually in the spring. As a result of that, I ended up with some heat rash, and some mild sunburn on my neck)
• Go with the flow
• Lap up the encouragement you receive
• Dish out encouragement to others

Where do I go from here? Well, I feel my ultra-career has just started. I will most definitely sign up for a 100 mile run at some point - Umstead in 12 months is a near certainty. I am also considering a 24 hour run and a 100 miler later this year..... watch this space.

I have also discovered some local events as a result of running for a few minutes with Jimmy of the Mangum Track Club. They have a marathon, a 50 miler, 100K and 24 hour run plus others. The 24 hour in September looks very appealing - all very reasonably priced, and some of the runs are quite local to me. How could I not participate in an event that has this line in the Waiver and Release?: I understand that this area has specific hazards such as rattlesnakes, copperheads,polecats, wildcats, and rednecks who like to drink and drive and throw things.

Right, I had best go out for a walk before it rains.

Jimbo's Umstead gear

Here is what I wore or carried while running:





Adidas shirt: Fantastic. I think it won Runner's World best shirt last summer. It kept me cool, and there was no chafing at all. I did catch the sun a bit mire than I would have liked. I should remember sunscreen next time

Nike DriFit Shorts: Prior to Umstead, I ran several miles in these, with no probalems at all. During the race though, I did experience some chafing. Not sure why. Maybe it was the warmth causing extra perspiration. I need to experiment with underwear I think. (or wear a skirt :))

Garmin Forerunner 205: A wonderful device that I have no idea how I did without it before. I didn't expect the batteries to last the full 50 miles, but they did. I was very impressed. Here is a screen shot of the speed and distance for the full 50 miles.



Merrell Overdrive II Trail Running Shoes: Very good shoe, but definitely moreso for trail running. The surface at Umstead was a little hard, and I think it is probably more appropriate for a road running shoe. Still, I went over 30 miles in them, so no complaints. What you can't see inside the shoe are my orthotics that Dr Tomey prescibed. These have made a huge difference, and made a massive contribution to me finishing the run with no injuries, either in my calf or my achilles, both of which have plagued me in the past.


Nathan Quick Draw Waterbottle: Perfect - fits me well, I think I prefer it to the Fuel Belt hand held - it just seems to fit in my hand better. I should probably wash it now though. :)



Drymax Maximum Protection Socks: Several months ago, when I first was accepted into Umstead, I stumbled across this Youtube Video of Jamie Donaldson, who won the women's division of the race in 2008. The video is of her winning the Badwater Ultramarathon, and they used the phrase "135 miles, no blisters". I bought myself a pair of these socks from Zombie Runner. The socks lived up to their promise, and I had zero problems with my feet. Not one tiny hotspot. I am happy to say "50 miles, no blisters"

Umstead 100 (50 for me) race report - Lap Four

Lap 4

I took probably around 10-15 minutes, just taking the weight off of my feet, changing shoes (to the new Mizuno’s), and doing the usual with the water bottle. I also found my travel mug, which still had some barely warm coffee in it; a little caffeine would do no harm.

I was hurting now, and as well as the physical pain, the mental part was kicking in. Getting up and getting started was tough. I needed a boost.

At the aid station, I recognized Charles from the Raleigh Trail Runners – although we only had a 30 second conversation; that was the boost I needed. So of I went with a handful of trail mix, some M&M’s and some banana.

Just as I got going, I heard “JIMBO!!” Yay, there was Frankie just behind me. Also, Tammy was just ahead of us. Frankie asked her to take a picture of “me and my buddy Jimbo”. With arms around each other’s shoulder, the picture was taken. Less than a second later, (we were just ahead of the Jeep trail where spectator traffic comes and goes to the parking areas), Jess comes around the corner. Perfect timing, there’s me getting photographed with my arms around the 'blond chick' in full view of my wife!

Here's the photo, hope Tammy doesn't mind me grabbing it off of her website

and another one

I took a few minutes to get going. Tammy runs ahead, and Frankie and I run together for 2.5 to 3 miles or so. We were both struggling with the mental arithmetic to calculate the pace I needed in order to finish in under 12 hours. I guess the brain gets fried too. I was beat, physically and mentally. Eventually we figured a 15 minute/mile pace would get me to the finish at 11:54. Easier said than done at this point. I was boosted by passing through 40 miles - 80% done had a great ring to it, as did only having a single digit number of miles to go.

Dave James lapped us again; he was on 65 miles, 25 miles ahead of me. What an amazing athlete.
Frankie had to make a pitstop, so the next mile or so I was on my own, until she caught up with me on the long hill between mile 4 and 5. There was no way at this point I could keep up with her. I didn’t see her again other than a brief “hello” in AS#2 until after the race.

The chafing was getting worse, but I had a plan. I had these little packets of “First Aid Cream, with Pain Relief”. That’ll do, I thought. Except the pain relief doesn’t kick in until after several minutes of agonizing stinging. At least it took my mind off of my quads for a while I suppose.

I needed to pee – I noticed on Tammy’s blog that she wrote, “appropriately far from the race course was inversely proportional to the time I spent on the course!” Isn’t that the truth, I found the nearest tree, and let it all hang out (actually that is not strictly true, because it would appear that running 40+ miles has a very similar effect on men as ice baths, so “all” maybe a slight exaggeration.

There’s the dog pile again. This lap’s 30 seconds were wasted thinking, “Hey, I see you’re surrounded by flies now you piece of crap you. Oh, and good riddance, I will never see you again. See ya turd!”

Into AS#2, did the usual with the water bottles, lubed up one more time. I had some potato soup which really helped pick me up, and I was off again

As I was leaving, Tammy was having a conversation with her husband, and as I was passing, she told me that I was entering, “the victory five miles”, and I should enjoy it. That was all I needed to hear. I got a huge lift. 5 miles left, just 5 lousy miles. I can run 5 miles in my sleep.

The sawtooth 79 hurt even more now, more on the downs. But that was just physical – mentally, I was strong now.

I figured at 4 miles to go, if I maintained a 15 minute pace, I would get in less than 12 hours with 10 minutes to spare, and I called Jess with my prediction, she asked how I was feeling, “on top of the world”.

Before I know it, I was at Graylin for the last time – 3 miles to go, and at least one mile of it is a nice gentle downhill slope.

Tammy caught up with me when I had a mile left, we chatted briefly as she was passing, more words of encouragement, and this time words of congratulations now. I was on an unbelievable high.

Turning right onto the Jeep trail for the last time, I started to get emotional, and I am not ashamed to admit that there were more than a few tears as people were clapping me home. Good job I was wearing sunglasses! Just before the finish line I caught sight of Jess and our friends Shelly and Duane with their cameras at the ready.

I even had enough energy to put in a little sprint to the finish.

“214 IS DONE”, I shouted as I crossed the line. The people at the finish line congratulated me, and I was on top of the world. My time (according to the Garmin) was 11:48:40. Absolutely thrilled with the time, and thrilled with the whole experience

My name is Jim, and I am an Ultramarathoner.

Umstead 100 (50 for me) race report - Lap Three

Lap 3

After sitting down for a few, calling Jess to let her know that I was half way, and refilling the water bottle, I grabbed a small ham sandwich, ¼ hot dog, M&M’s and some banana and off I go. Being beyond the halfway point it meant that I could count miles to go, instead of miles gone. A subtle difference, but it is one that gives a little psychological boost. On the way out of the HQ spur, I got to say hi to Tammy again as she was heading in.

1.2 miles into lap 3, I became an ultra marathoner (anything above 26.2 miles), and I thought of Dean Karanzes whose book “Ultramarathon Man, confessions of an all night runner”, was my main inspiration.

With the compression underwear on, I was beginning to notice that my shorts started to ride up my legs for some reason, and this was annoying me, as well as irritating the already chafed spot. Looks like I’ll be getting rid of the compression at AS#2.

Shortly after the turnaround, Frankie was coming the other way, the conversation went something like this: “JIMBO!!!”…. “LOOKING GOOD FRANKIE!!”

I ran for a while talking to someone who was running for the fallen firefighters of Fort Lauderdale FD. He was telling me about one of his colleagues who got hurt, and will be out of work for TWO YEARS. Apparently, the city doesn’t take care of these guys well enough – hence his running for this cause. Good for him and shame on the city of Fort Lauderdale. He described his current mood as “in that happy place where it hurts to walk and it hurts to run”. I knew where he was coming from, I was approaching the same place.

This is me a little before 27 miles.







I needed to pee – this time though, despite broad daylight, and a lot more park visitors, I only went a few feet in the woods. I did stand behind a big tree though.

Frankie caught up to me on after my pit stop, and the miles again started to fly by. At 28.7 miles, I entered virgin territory, in other words, every single step I take will be the furthest I have ever run.

As the miles were piling up, it wasn’t long before the dog pile was spotted again. This lap’s 30 seconds were, “It’s starting to dry out, and STILL no one has put their foot in it”

Somewhere around mile 30, Frankie, who like me was listening to music wearing just one earpiece, suddenly put in her other earpiece, and really started to pick up the pace, dancing around and waving her arms in the air – apparently the Eurythmics does that to her, I will have to remember to put one of their tracks onto my music player.

31 miles/50K – we hit that a little under 7 hours, which was something to celebrate. It was also around that time that the talk started that I could finish the 50 in under 12 hours – to be honest, talk of finishing unnerved me a bit, I didn’t want to jinx anything. Apparently though, for a first 50, that is ‘awesome’

At AS#2, I made a decision to switch shoes, from my Merrell trail shoes to an old pair of Kayanos. The cushioning is probably shot in the Kayanos from 100’s of miles of wear, but they fit like a glove, and I felt they would be a little more comfortable around my toes. Also, I had to get rid of the compression underwear, the shorts riding up my leg was really annoying. Change shorts, change shoes, M&M’s, banana, and a piece of potato dipped in salt (sounds awful – it was, but apparently, it is a good way to get salt back in to your system with some energy giving carbs, it also make you thirsty, and forces you to drink). And off we go again.

Frankie left AS#2 ahead of me, and even though she was in my sights, I didn’t have the energy to put in a burst of speed to catch up, and besides, she pulled away further each walking stretch with her very fast walk.

The Sawtooth 79 section was beginning to hurt on the downs now as well as the ups, mainly in my quads. I was also starting to notice the lack of cushioning in the Kayanos, oh well, they will have to do till I get to the main HQ.

Even though I didn’t want to think of it too much, thoughts of an ‘awesome’ sub 12 hour finish were pushing me on, but it was pretty clear that fatigue was starting to kick in.

I got a bit of a second wind when I was boosted by the sight of the Graylin trail sign. I ran all the way down the gentle hill. I even caught up with my friend again, although as soon as the slope turned upwards, she surged ahead once more.

At the bottom of Graylin, there are about two miles to go to the Race HQ, and aid station. During this time there are runners coming towards you until you get there. Plenty of “You’re looking good”, and “good job” and “keep it up”, really helped to keep me going even though I was flagging.

I called Jess and left her a voicemail to let her know I was coming in soon.


And that was it for lap 3.

Umstead 100 (50 for me) race report - Lap Two

Lap Two

I am writing this up in long hand sitting on a plane on my way to the west coast for work (well, actually, I am not on the plane now, I am now typing my notes in a hotel room). I can never be bothered to get my lap top out while travelling, I’ll type this up later (like now).

Note to self: it is not wise to plan to sit in a plane so soon after an Ultra.

Right then, Lap 2. After my pit stop, it was off to race HQ to grab a gel for my water bottle. Overall rest time at the end of the lap was probably 5 or 6 minutes. Refill water bottle, grab some banana, and off I go.

Just after the turnaround at the end of the airport spur, I was lapped for the first time. It turns out I was passed by David James who was the eventual winner of the 100 with an overall time of 15:05. He was flying, at the time I thought he would never make it to the end if he keeps at that pace. It also crossed my mind that perhaps he was a fast runner who just got to the starting line late, and was trying to make up for lost time – but no, I was being lapped, as he passed he said, “Great running, keep it up” – certainly gave me a little boost. I was on my 14th mile, he was on his 27th. Incredible.

Somewhere around mile 15, I noticed a woman coming out of the woods, (one thing that was starting to stand out, was that all ultra runners, regardless of gender seem to have the same attitude when it comes to outdoor facilities.)

We were running parallel for a minute or so, at which point she started to look at her legs, and then she said, “Tick check”

I think, “Huh? Tit check? You’re not looking in the right place”. I remove my headphones and say, “Excuse me?”

“Tick check”

“Aah. Got it.”

This was my introduction to my main source of motivation for the next couple of laps, this was my new friend Frankie.

The miles started to fly by; both the conversation and pace were relaxing and comfortable. Soon we were upon the dog pile. “Surprised no one has stepped in it yet, and remarkable how fresh it looks considering I know it is at least 3 or 4 hours old” That was the 30 seconds wasted on lap 2.

At about mile 18, I did think to myself that in my last organized event, (OBX marathon), this was the point where the wheels fell off; my right calf muscle went, resulting in me limping the rest of the way.

Before I knew it, Frankie and I were approaching AS#2.

I was beginning to notice some chafing where the inside of my thigh meets my crotch. Nothing too bad, but it was the first time I had experienced anything like this with the Nike Dri-Fit shorts. No problem, just apply some lube and try not to think about it.

Refill the bottle with water and this time an “Acel Gel”. During my long training runs, I had been mixing/alternating between Acel and Hammer gels, so during the race, I was doing “Hammer, Hammer, Acel”. I grabbed some banana, M&M’s and some trail mix, and off we went.

Again the miles flew by, and Frankie and I chatted about running, everything and nothing. It didn’t seem long before the “sawtooth 79” section was done, and we were heading down Graylin.

With about a mile to go, Frankie pulled ahead, her blistering pace on the hills left me in the dust as I was starting to slow.

The chafing was still bothering me, so as I was approaching the race HQ, I made the decision to put on compression underwear. This is where I was praising myself for being incredibly smart – a) for thinking of bringing the compression underwear in the first place, and b) for bringing a towel so I could change without revealing too much!

Lap: Two
Accumulated miles: 25
Lap time: 2:46:36
Accumulated time:
Pace for lap: 13.17 min/mile
Accumulated pace:

Umstead 100 (50 for me) race report - Lap One

I was travelling across the country today, and I wrote longhand 30 pages of notes about the day. I had so much to remember, normally within a few days of the race, I forget everything, so this time, I wrote it all down. I will type these notes up lap by lap over the next few days.

Lap One.

Before the start, I had a game plan, I was thinking 11:30 min/mile, and add a minute each lap. I know that I was comfortable at 9 min/mile over short distances, and ran the first 18 miles of my last marathon at 10 min/mile, so I figured 11:30 would be a good pace to start (I did plenty of training runs at 11 min/mile), so I felt that would be a good comfortable pace that could be sustained.

That plan went out the window as soon as I was standing at the start line; I looked around and saw all these seasoned ultra runners surrounding me. My plan immediately switched to “do what they do”.

So headlight on, and we’re off. After about 100 yds or so there was a very slight incline, perfectly manageable at the pace I was going, however, many of those folks who knew what they were doing started to walk and that is what I did. And that’s how it went, jog on the flat and the downhill sections and walk the inclines – even the baby inclines. I was very happy at that pace.

Around mile 4, I needed to pee, even though it was still barely dawn, I still felt I should venture deep into the woods where I wouldn't be noticed - no idea why, it wasn't like I was the only one who uses the outdoor facilities!

The hill between mile 4 and 5 was uneventful other than the first spotting of the soon to be famous dog pile – still fresh and glistening. The thirty seconds of time wasted on this lap were, “I really wish people would pick up after their dogs”, and “the poor puppy has eaten something that disagreed with it”.

Into AS #2 (aid station 2). Refill water bottle, add a hammer gel to the water, take off long sleeved shirt, exchange regular glasses for prescription sunglasses and off I go again with a handful of M&M’s and some peanuts.

After the aid station, the “sawtooth 79” section started. So called because between miles 7 and 9, there are a lot of hills many of them beasts, mostly short hills, but for the whole two miles, there were hardly any flat spots at all.

I really enjoyed coming to the end of that section so I could get to the long trot down Graylin trail. Getting to that T-junction, and seeing that street sign really gave me a lift, because I felt that the worst was over, and knew I was facing a long downhill stretch followed by the last couple of miles of trail – but this time, you have people in the race coming towards you, and a few people saying “good job” does no harm whatsoever.

Toward the end of the lap, it became apparent that the men’s room was needed. As I got closer to the end, it became quite urgently apparent. As I crossed the line at the end of the lap, it became a sprint to the bathroom. I made it. Just. I had planned a few minutes rest at the end of each lap – I spent it this time on the john. Apparently, the one topic that all ultra runners converse about is “voiding” for some reason, hence the addition of this paragraph. :)

Lap: one
Accumulated miles: 12.5
Lap time: 2:48:09
Accumulated time: 2:48:09
Pace for lap: 13.05 min/mile
Accumulated pace: 13.05 min/mile

Umstead 100 race report initial thoughts....

There are big things to remember – like finishing alive in less than 12 hours, the pain in my quads the following day the wonderful people you meet who encourage you and help you on your way, the fantastic volunteers, and the terrific organization of the whole event.

There are also little things, and I have no idea why this stands out, but there was a piece of dog crap at on the trail at about 5 miles. First time I saw it, I thought “that dog’s owner needs to visit the vet”, – let’s just say it was a little soft. For some strange reason, I saw that little pile every lap, and despite coming close each time, I managed to avoid it. I was also surprised that everybody else had also managed to step over it. Why did I write that? Why does this stick out in my memory? I have absolutely no idea. Perhaps it is a symbol of the kind of trivia that fills my mind to keep from thinking about the pain or the number of miles still to be travelled. So, a big thank you to the dog pile, you kept my mind occupied for at least 30 seconds per lap.

Before I get stuck into the race itself, I am going to mention the wonderful people. Just about everyone I met, from the elite front runners to those closer to the back, to those fantastic volunteers and organizers took a moment to pass the time of day, encourage you or just smile at you. It was all quite humbling really. When you are being lapped by the eventual winner of the 100 miler, and he says as he passes, “Good running, keep it up”, it is quite amazing how much of a boost it gives you.

I also need to give a shout out to Tammy, whose blog and Umstead race report from last year formed a big part of my research. Although the list of stuff she takes to the race made me panic, because I didn’t have half of it. It was very nice to meet her, and even though I have not seen any results, I am certain that she did very well in her 100 mile race.

Finally, while we are talking about people, a very special thank you to my new friend Frankie, who kept me company for the best part of laps two and three. Her conversation, encouragement, humor and enthusiasm really kept me going. I also found that I cut my pace back to match her pace, there is no doubt in my mind that easing back a bit in the mid stages of the race left me with enough energy to tackle the last few miles. As I was slowing down in the last lap, Frankie surged ahead, (she has an amazingly fast walk). The miles flew by – I know that she will have got through her first 100 with plenty of time to spare.

Watch this space; I’m working on a race report with pictures, and should get it done by the end of the week.

Final thoughts prior to Umstead

About 12 hours from now, I will be 4 hours into the run. Hopefully, I should be comfortably into the second lap.

Good news, the cold has totally gone, even better news, the weather is predicted to be perfect tomorrow.

This evening, we went to the race briefing and pasta dinner. Two things stand out - the incredible organization undertaken by Blake Norwood and the people who put the race together, and the fantastic shirt that I will proudly wear when I have finished.

There is a photographer there, who is doing a master's degree in photography, and for his thesis, he is taking photos of runners' faces whne they have finished, his whole project is taking pictures of fatigued faces. An interesting concept to say the least. Needless to say I signed up, mainly because it was free, and I'm curious to learn what I will look like after 50 miles!

There is an 80 year old man, and a 74 year old woman who are running the whole 100 miles. That's quite incredible when you think about it.

Anyway, I know I will struggle to sleep, but I suppose I should try.

Cold update - oh and the weather

Today was a better day I think, I still have blocked sinuses (sinii?), but I felt ok. I managed 3.5 miles on the treadmill at lunchtime with no difficulty.

I have been following the weather updates since April 4 has been in the 10 day outlook. As of today, mostly sunny with a high of 74F is the forecast. For me, that is probably close to perfect.

I don't believe it!

I wake up Saturday and immediately noticed a blocked nose and itchy eyes. Crap, early signs of a cold? Yep. WHY THIS WEEK OF ALL WEEKS? Crap crap crap crap.

Well, we are going to find out what a combination of echinacea (tea and caplets), Mucinex DM maximum stregth, Zicam, Cold Eze, Theraflu and extra vitamin C tablets. Lots of water as well. Oh, and Lysine which apparently will help to reduce the risk of the [normally] inevitable coldsore.

So far, over the last 36 hours the cold has got worse, it would be nice if it has peaked and will improve over the next 6 days. I really could do without being congested on Saturday...........

The final countdown - 50 miles at Umstead

So with one week left to go to the 50 miles at Umstead, I am beginning to have that sinking feeling that comes everytime I do a run - I am under-trained and under-prepared. This is my first attmept at 50 miles, so of course I don't know if I am under-trained and under-prepared. I will know sometime on April 4th. I have now done 28.7 miles, and I felt like I could have gone further, and perhaps that is all I will need.

I have set no goals - except to 'finish alive'. I really don't care how long it will take to do the four laps, and as long as I keep telling myself that, and forcing myself to slow down and walk often during the early portions of the race, I think I will be OK.

I will have two 'drop bags', and knowing what to put in them is a bit of a challenge to be honest, the weather is predicted to be about 71F and sunny - but it is spring in NC, so it could get into the 80's or it could freeze - rain is always a possibility. Here is what I am thinking:

• Spare drink bottles
• Plenty of HammerGels and AccelGels
• Endurolytes
• Anti Fatigue Caps
• Vaseline and BodyGlide
• Headlamp
• Gloves if it gets cold
• Change of clothing - including an additional long sleeve shirt and a fleece if it gets cold.
• Spare MP3 player (don't think my batteries will last)
• Couple of pairs of spare running shoes (including that old worn-in, comfortable pair that I will probably need towards the end when I am mostly walking)
• Camera (or should I carry the camera)? Maybe my phone camera will do.

There is probably plenty more that I can't think of right now.