Will be doing (attempting) the Big Horn 100. http://www.bighorntrailrun.com/ The Bridger Ridge Run http://winddrinkers.org/ridge-run/
The Rut 50k http://runtherut.com/ and The Mountain Lake 100 https://gobeyondracing.com/.../mountain-lakes-100/

So glad someone started this! Another North Carolina (Cary) ultra runner here. Did Gator Trail the year before last and loved it! Weymoth Woods is another local one to keep on your radar. Was hoping to do Southern Trail down in Wilmington but I'm actually currently in Hong Kong getting ready to run the HK 100 (first race of the ultra trail World Tour). Where in NC are you based?

I've got a 6 hour in May and Can lakes 50mi in October. I fill in the summer with some local races and IMLP.

I live in Wilmington





2 100 Milers in a year? That's pretty stout dude. Keep us up to date on how they go. Those will be your first two??

I ran a relay for the Tuna Run 200 last year. This year they are adding a 70 mile relay option, and I am thinking abut doing a solo 70 instead of doing a team. Seems like a good distance to suck just enough

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When all is said and done. More is usually said than done
Ba Ba Booey

Charlotte based ultra runner here. Looking at the 50m at the whitewater center in October and another NC in October.

I tried the Big Horn 100 twice before. The first year I was trained on the endurance side, but was not ready for the ruggedness of the terrain and the climbing. I am 6ft 195, so lot of weight to push. I made it past 50 but my strength was gone. Last year I knew what I had to do in training, sadly I had a stress fracture from running stairs and could not run for Feb and March. Starting April for a 100 in June was not enough. This time just the opposite, had the strength but not endurance. I set my own cut offs for my goal and did not make my cut off at the 30 mile point so I bagged it. Made the races but not mine. The next point after 30 to leave the course was at 50, I knew I could make that cut off but was not going to make the 100 so chose to stop there and not run through the night and kill my other runs. Then did a lot of training in the mountains all summer and finished with the rut and bridger ridge run. Bridger has about 8,000 climbing and 10,000 drop in 19.7 miles and the rut 10,000 up and down in 50k. ........In my fourth week of 24 week plan right now. A friend that has done the Bighorn 12 times (in June) advised I will be fine for a fall 100......................so looking forward to all summer at least one day a weekend in the mountains here in Montana

I will be in Wilmington for the Southern Trail as well. My wife and a good friend of ours are running the race and I will be there as support. I can pass back some high 5s as you burn through your laps.

So far I have almost all trail ultras on my schedule and only 1 triathlon (IM CDA). Antelope Canyon 55K, Speedgoat 50K, Squaw Peak 50 mile (will be my first 50 miler), and another local 50K in the fall. Since moving to Utah the trails and ultras have just been so much more fun. As much as cycling in the mountains is great, I'd still rather be on the trails!

Only doing one 70.3 tri this year (Door County), everything else will be ultras as part of a race or pacing friends.

Really looking forward to:
R2R2R in May with a group of friends.
Superior 100 Miler in northern MN. I hear it's hard as hell!

I'll take you up on that offer. Thanks!

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When all is said and done. More is usually said than done
Ba Ba Booey

I hope that the third times a charm for you. As someone who's run that distance before and I am sure you know from experience, I would also recommend that you don't forget about the mental side of it all. Is your friend going to be running it with you? (Pacing)

Also, if you or anybody needs any type of motivation I can not recommend enough watching this video from youtube about finishing your first 100 miler:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DyBdA-7dSvs

This may be one of the well made and inspiring running videos Ive ever seen

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When all is said and done. More is usually said than done
Ba Ba Booey

Thanks !!

I am coaching a client for his firstly 50 Miler- good athletic background including many marathons and IM races- His race in the Bonneville Salt Flats in late April - anyone here have any experience with this particular race please? Tks

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Graham Wilson
USAT Level III Elite Coach
http://www.thewilsongroup.biz

will be doing Uwharrie 40 next year. Have done the 20 several times but never the 40. To prepare I would like to maintain some swim and bike. Can you give me some idea of how you integrate ultra training into tri training. For my build, I was planning on maintaining 3 swims per week, 2 easy to moderate rides, and run ~5x week with one hill repeat session per week and back to back long runs (Umstead) ever other week. Thanks for any info!

I have been convincing myself that this is the year I go 100. Tunnel Hill race in south Illinois to be exact. Looks really good for crew/family to see you multiple times easily, good for a flatlander like myself as its flat and on crushed gravel type paths. My stomach turns when I think about it, but I think thats a positive? It's in November, so should have time to get into a training plan after most of the tri stuff is done for my year.

Just ran a 50k a week ago now training for Leatherwood 50 miler in Ferguson NC.
After that I will decide whats next.

I am a bit scared since there's no hills where I train and it has a ton of elevation.
The 50k I just ran had 2800' gain and 2700' loss and I blew my quads out on that, its not building my confidence.
I have realized I will be "hiking" a lot!

I didn't get in the Leadville 100 lottery so I will try again next year or just buy a charity slot.

Thats a tough one. I by no means is or was a coach. So take my advice with a grain of salt.

I am fortunate enough this year that I am not doing any tris and focusing on ultra running. But in years past Ive run into this exact problem. The biggest problem I ran into was based upon whatever kind of tri I had coming up. Meaning, that shorter tris called for higher intensity run workouts, which I found difficult to blend into a long endurance run plan. From what you've got listed for your workouts, I think you'll be alright in two regards:
1. Some sort of speed work. (Hill repeats, just made my throw up in my mouth just typing that. I hate hill repeats) Keeps the legs moving at a good clip.
2. Luckily, Uwharrie isn't that long of a race. I would treat it almost as a traditional marathon in terms of distances ran in training. From my standpoint for something of that distance, the last couple hours would be between the ears anyway. That way you avoid the 35 mile training run and being out of commission for a swim or ride due to recovery.

Hope that helps.

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When all is said and done. More is usually said than done
Ba Ba Booey

Earlier I linked this video and cannot say enough good things about it. It deals with everything ultra running. Anxiety, highs, lows, everything. It should pump you up. Ive watched it three times in as many weeks.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DyBdA-7dSvs

My best advice I can give you from a preparation standpoint for the race. Obviously, run a lot. But more importantly don't underestimate the mental game. You will feel the highest of highs, and lows that will make you question life. And unlike running a marathon were the mental "wall" may be a few miles, in 100 milers, that "wall" low can last for hours.

I would also recommend you practice at least once, running through the night. To get used to the solitude. I wish you the best of luck. Check in on this thread and let us know how its going

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When all is said and done. More is usually said than done
Ba Ba Booey

yep, I had to stop really training for tris although if you are just having fun an IM training doesn't conflict too much with 50 miler training as I did that in 2014. July 50 miler with September IM.

I haven't been on my bike since that September IM in 2014 as last year was all 100 miler training which is a whole different beast IMHO as opposed to 50 miler training. Sort of like the jump from 70.3 to 140.6 in difference...

I've run lots of them and finally DNF'd one by running too fast in conditions that were too warm. Which is funny because "fast" was still stupid slow and "warm" was probably 60 degrees. A 100 miler is still the thing that I compare all else too. People that are actually good at them are awe-inspiring. Hats off to those racing some this year - you are brave!

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Zen and the Art of Triathlon. Strava Workout Log
Interviews with Chris McCormack, Helle Frederikson, Angela Naeth, and many more.
http://www.zentriathlon.com

damn you for trying to make me accountable!!!! Thx for the tips and the video is great, will check back in after I commit.

I'm planning to do the Vermont 50 at the end of September. Registration doesn't open until May, so it's not a done deal yet.

I've never done an ultra before, and I've concluded that this will be a very different kind of experience in compared to tri's or marathons. My research continues.

Right now, I'm wondering if I need a pacer for the final miles. My gut feeling is that I'll be okay without one, but with no experience under my belt, I could be having the incorrect feeling.

Any thoughts?

When I did a 50 I didnt use a pacer, I liked being alone for both the highs and lows. I did run with a guy for a few miles and was so annoyed at him for talking, nothing against him I think it was just the idea of a conversation that I didnt want any part of at the moment. I'd consider one depending on how far/sparse the aid stations are, or maybe if I was running at night, but when I ran during the day on a somewhat populated course I didn't have a need. Good luck.

The one thing that makes a pacer better than running with another competitor is that you can tell a pacer (more than likely a friend of yours) to shut up if you don't feel like conversation. More than likely your friend will just chalk if up to running lows. However, if you do that to a fellow competitor you just kinda look like a dick.

But i'm with you, on my 50 milers, Ive never felt the need for a pacer.

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When all is said and done. More is usually said than done
Ba Ba Booey

Doing Rocky Raccoon 100 mile ultramarathon in a couple weeks (have run it before) and am applying to run Badwater. Fingers crossed and ill be accepted to Badwater 135 this summer.

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2x Deca-Ironman World Cup (10 Ironmans in 10 days), 2x Quintuple Ironman World Cup (5 Ironmans in 5 days), Ultraman, Ultra Marathoner, and I once did an Ironman.

Hennepin 100 might be an option for you. Aldo, find the Flatlanders Ultrarunners Facebook group.

I live in north Texas where the largest hills are the highway overpasses; last year I did the Pike's Peak marathon with 7800' gain/loss. The treadmill set at 12+ degrees is your friend. Stairwells are also good. If you have access to a multilevel parking garage the ramps are good for repeats, just keep going up and down over and over. Without the luxury of real hills whatever artificial hills you can find will work, you just have to get used to the boring/repetitive nature (I find treadmills insanely boring). Good luck with your 50m!

Orcus Island 50K in February, Then depending on lottery results, Waldo 100K (WS lottery qualifier) and McKenzie River Trail Run 50K.

Hey, thanks for posting that video, it was really well done. It's been awhile since I ran an ultra, and watching that video brings all the feelings back to make me want to get back into them.
That race looks beautiful too.

My last ultra was actually Rocky Raccoon a few years ago. Made it to mile 80, and made the mistake of sitting down. My body (more likely mind) did not cooperate on getting back up. So, I'm going to have to give that one a go again sometime and get that dang buckle!

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@davempratt

I did Vermont 50 twice. It's not easy, it's up and down Mt Ascutny, which is a ski slope. Lots of triple diamond trails and the like. With that said, it is gorgeous country. I had a pacer for the very end, but turns out I spent a lot of energy worrying about the pacer so I probably really didn't need the pacer. Enjoy the race, it's a great one!

Tarawera Ultra (100km) in two and half weeks. Which reminds me, I have to go run.

So I have 3 seasons of short course tri behind me. I'm young and really wanted to focus on a run block this season in lieu of tri-training... I have this weird desire to take a peak into the long stuff... the really long stuff (from my never having raced even a 13.1 perspective.)

Am I punching way above my weight class in thinking about a 50 miler? I was never a runner in school. I averaged 35mpw for the past year, but have hit 45 a few weeks. Any beginner tips from the ST are greatly appreciated.

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@floathammerholdon | @partners_in_tri

I've embarked upon the Gary the Vale Ultramarathon Training Program, with the idea of doing the Rocky Run 50K in December

In a nutshell, every week, you add ONE mile to your long run; ideally, by going 1/2 a mile further on an out-n-back route, so you can look down the road and say to yourself "Self. We're going down to there next week. Just a little further, that's not so bad, right?"

Now, be warned ... to my knowledge, no one has actually started at zero [or 1, as the case may be*] and stuck with it for an ENTIRE year, culminating in a 52-mile run [people tend to do silly things like sign up for races along the way, messing up the progression]




*to be honest, I started at 5

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"What's your claim?" - Ben Gravy
"Your best work is the work you're excited about" - Rick Rubin

That is a flat 50 miler! The flat ultras can be deceptively hard because of the constant running and using the muscles the same way, and not the prettiest course. Just curious why he chose that race? I suppose a lot is personal preference, but I'd much prefer a really hilly mountain ultra.

I can imagine they don't come much flatter, unless you're running around a REALLY BIG parking lot

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"What's your claim?" - Ben Gravy
"Your best work is the work you're excited about" - Rick Rubin

I'm planning to do my first ultra at the end of February assuming my recovery from a marathon this past weekend goes smoothly. It's the BCS Ultra (50k) outside of College Station. Looking forward to dipping into this scene.

My biggest advice: don't idealize ultra running.

Unlike cycling, where you can keep turning the pedals no matter what, the body can totally shut down in an ultra. Ultras quickly disillusion the undertrained.

Also, running an ultra won't necessarily make you faster, if that is the purpose of your run block. All that being said, if you are set on it, apply these principles in training:

1. Emphasize the long run. Get comfortable at 2-3 hours every single weekend, then leading up to race day, do 4 key long runs/weekends, all on similar terrain as your planned race. I'd envision a 22 miler, a 20 mile/10 mile weekend, a 20 mile/15 mile weekend, and a 50K race or training run.

2. Do a mid-week workout. Even though you're racing long, staying sharp will make you fast across all distances. Aim for simple fartlek-style runs like 6 x 3 min, 10 x 1 min, 8 x 2 min, preferably with ups and downs.

3. Train the downs. Uphills are mostly a product of body weight and fitness, but downs involve lots of pounding. In your long runs and mid-week runs, don't noodle downhill all the time. Be sure to let your body flow and learn to make downhills your strength.

4. Run consistently. Just like in shorter distances, run 5-7 times per week. Frequency trumps volume as long as you can get in the key long runs.

Hope this helps!

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David Roche
"The Happy Runner" book: https://www.amazon.com/...Longer/dp/1492567647
Coaching: https://swaprunning.com/

He had already selected this race to celebrate his 50th birthday - the course profile is mostly flat but with 2 1500 feet bumps towards the end--- weather can be snow to 80F -- should be fun

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Graham Wilson
USAT Level III Elite Coach
http://www.thewilsongroup.biz

I've never heard of this race, but my sister goes to A&M and I'm in DFW so I may come down for the 25k. Thanks for posting it!



I'm also doing hells hills 50k in Texas in April followed by the Silver Rush 50miler in leadville in July. That's the goal race, everything else is just training.

Ultras quickly disillusion the undertrained.

This in a BIG way.

To cloy26: The training will let you know if you're mentally ready for an ultra. If the idea of doing the 20+ mile long runs every week doesn't sound like fun then waiting awhile to do a 50 miler might be a good idea. Ultras have a huge mental component, the concept of running a marathon after you just finished one can really mess with your head in the middle of a 50 miler. Once again the training is what prepares you for this. If the training sounds like fun or a good challenge then by all means go for it!

Adding to DaveRoche's advice I'd suggest practice hiking towards the end of long runs; you'll almost certainly spend some time walking in a 50m so it's definitely worth training for it when you're tired. Also don't overdo it with mileage outside of the long runs; I got caught in a trap once of doing too much during the week in addition to the long weekends figuring I needed big mileage to prepare for a 50m, all it did was left me tired and stale. Consistency and being smart and resting when your body needs it are key in the big distances.

A friend of mine [who has 2 Badwater finishes, a Rocky Racoon, plus more than a handful of Umsteads to her credit] has the following as her forum sig

"100 milers are all Gallowalking festivals."

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"What's your claim?" - Ben Gravy
"Your best work is the work you're excited about" - Rick Rubin

I've been running a lot with an accomplished ultrarunner and she says I'm so ready for a 50k and even a 50 miler. She thinks I might be able to do a 100, but would need more mental prep for the 80 mile dread; "Will someone just kill me, please!" So, I'll probably progress up over the next year, maybe to the 100. I'll likely crew her at Badwater-Salton Sea and possibly Badwater, itself and get that first-hand experience. Right now, I'm running shorter stuff - the Big Baz WTRS series (12k; 15k; 18; & 21k) very technical singletrack stuff. Still want to do some tris and masters swim meets, as well.

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Proud member of FISHTWITCH: doing a bit more than fish exercise now.

It's the mental component that I find interesting (from the comfort of an armchair. hah.)

And thanks to both you and Dave for the good tips! Especially with regard to the midweek workout and being conservative with weekly mileage. I feel like I would automatically be defaulted into the "more is more" mentality and eschew any speedwork while adding in too much mid-week volume.

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@floathammerholdon | @partners_in_tri

This right here is huge. It will wreck you if you think in terms of, "I just ran this much and still have that much to run" I know during my first 100 mile attempt, after running 50 miles, I thought, " I've run 50 miles (which is an accomplishment in itself) and I'm only half way?!?!?!?!" This sadly reduced me to tears sitting in my chair next to my support car.

I think it goes without saying that you need to break it down into more manageable goals/distances. For instance, when I was still racing Ironman I used to think toward the end of the bike that there is no way I could run a marathon. But I can run from aid station to aid station.

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When all is said and done. More is usually said than done
Ba Ba Booey

I honestly don't know alot about the race other than it fits well in my calendar, is fairly close to my house (about an hour) and is run by the same group that runs the BCS marathon which is organized well from what I hear. From what I've been able to gather it's a second year race but was quite small last year. Terrain is relatively flat but that wasn't a driving concern for me.

Listen to David. If I weren't such a cheap bastard I'd likely hire him as my running coach. Instead, I stalk him here on ST and try to sponge as mich info as possible. :-)

You are awesome :) I also am a Contributing Editor for Trail Runner Mag now, so you can read jokes masquerading as advice all the time. Like today! http://trailrunnermag.com/...-really-dont-want-to

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David Roche
"The Happy Runner" book: https://www.amazon.com/...Longer/dp/1492567647
Coaching: https://swaprunning.com/

Hells Hills is an awesome course. In fact, all of Tejas Trails races are really great. I can't say enough good things about them. Of course I ran most of them under the old RD, Joe Prusaitis. He and his wife are just great people and really put on some good, well run (no pun intended) races. I have heard that since his retirement, the new RD is Tejas Trails is pretty good too. I don't have any first hand experience though.

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@davempratt

Listen to David. I just did my 2nd 50k with him gearing up for my first 50mi.

2yrs ago I did my first 50k a couple months after IM, with hopes of doing a 50 miler later that year. During the last few miles I lost that desire, thinking about doing another 19 was enough to kill that ultra bug I had.

This year with David's help I reached the last couple of miles (same course) and actually felt "good", thinking I could go another 19, it will be slow but I can do it.

This was after bad nutrition choices, only about 500 cal for 31 miles, technical, muddy, hilly for me trails, blown out quads, rolled my ankle enough times I stopped counting around 10, but I still had a smile and was having fun. I felt like hell... but it felt good...

A fiddy is a beast, but I am now mentally ready, I dont think I was 2 yrs ago.
I want to do a 100 next year but I might think differently after 50.

I've been on a run-a-day kick since the new year. My original, spontaneous idea was to run everyday of 2016, with a minimum of 3mi. Is this feasible still trying to tackle an initial 50k? I'm sure it's not ideal, but is it manageable?

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@floathammerholdon | @partners_in_tri

For sure! That being said, I think running streaks are not really conducive to high-level training solely because you will need to take a day or two off for injury at some point most likely. However, I say go for it! That 3 mile run should be interesting the day after your first 50k :)

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David Roche
"The Happy Runner" book: https://www.amazon.com/...Longer/dp/1492567647
Coaching: https://swaprunning.com/

I entered leadville 100 but didn't get in.

However I am doing Ultraman (FL) which has a 52 mile run on day 3. The training has seemed weird to me compared to Ironman training, overall fewer hours per week, and more rest days. Typically with a big double each week (the most I have done is 18 miles Friday, 28 miles Saturday) with no running on the days either side (just 3-4 hour bike sessions and some swims). So my overall run volume has only been 50-60 miles per week, often less than that. Whereas in IM training I just shoot for consistent +-50 mile weeks without that big double. I will be able to tell you in 5 weeks whether it worked out or not! The furthest I have run before this is about 55k, so I'm for sure an ultra rookie.

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Are you ready to do an Ultraman? | How I calculate Ironman race fueling | Strength Training for Athletes |

There is also Badwater Cape Fear 50K/50M in March on Bald Head Island for those in/around Wilmington

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Rodney
TrainingPeaks | Altra Running | RAD Roller
http://www.goinglong.ca

I actually did the 50 miler last year for the Cape Fear Badwater. One of the better ran races I've been apart of. Pretty obvious that they have the whole "how to put on a race thing" figured out.

I would definetly recommend it to anyone looking for a good 50k/ 50 miler

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When all is said and done. More is usually said than done
Ba Ba Booey

Really? I did too, also did Salton Sea and crewed Badwater. They do put on great events in unique locations :)

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Rodney
TrainingPeaks | Altra Running | RAD Roller
http://www.goinglong.ca

Yeah the 100 I would suggest you don't even think about any of the mileage numbers. It will get you into serious mental trouble. I would use more about finishing "sections" of the course. Also be prepared to get to an aid station and want to just give up...I think everyone seems to go through that. I sat in an aid station for about an hour just planning to bail out but decided to keep going and I don't even really remember feeling low after that so it just turned around.

Twenty minutes after finishing my first ultra, someone asked which was harder - the 100 or an IM? I said this thing for sure was....by noon.

I am in for Bighorn and Bear this year. Probably another one late in the year, like Ozark Trail. I'll find five or six 50-mi and 50K's to keep me from slacking off. Also Leadville MTB, and some long gravel grinders mixed in throughout.

We (kinda) joke that I can get in more trouble on ultasignup.com than on ashlymadison.com

IM training is harder...100 miler is harder event. ;)

That makes sense then for selecting that race. I was just curious knowing how many beautiful mountain ultras there are in Utah and in the region. Flat like that would suck for me, but I hope he enjoys the course and has a great race!

Registered for 2 ultras this year. ( or 3, depending on how you count it )

In April I am doing the nimble bear 50k with 6,700 feet of climbing with apparently a lot of technical and steep terrain.

This will be my first ultramarathon race, and I can just drive there race morning.

August I am also signed up for Squamish that offer a 50 mile, a 50k and the 50/50 where you do the 50 mile race saturday and the 50k race sunday, which I signed up for.

This one is about a 4 or so hour drive from my house, but I can't wait!!

His videos are great, and I first came upon him when I was looking for local ultras when I came across his squamish 50/50 video!



Definitely can recommend watching some of his stuff.

Gorge waterfalls 50k was a great one too, and has now made my bucket list!

I will check it out for sure. Another person on YouTube that makes GREAT running videos with top notch quality is a channel called "Billy Yang Films"

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When all is said and done. More is usually said than done
Ba Ba Booey

Agreed, just watched his WS100 film a few days ago, and thought he did an excellent job on Western Time where he documented Sally McCrae's WS100 in 2014.

With a bad day at IM it is often possible to just dial it in and shuffle home. If you're race has gone to shit at a 100 miler, there is no easy way to finish. Good race or bad, they are all hard.

Love the ultrasignup comment. :-)

Ultra running 101: Beware the chair!

Admittedly, in the middle of the night during a 100 miler it is a provocatively seductive piece of furniture.

Well done on the turn around.

Unfortunately, I have no ultras planned for 2016.

I had my ultra running swansong in 2012. After running a dream race that I had my eye on for 18 years, my left knee decided it had seen too many miles and too many races, and it finally prohibited me from training effectively for subsequent ultras. I then recognised it was time to dial back my mileage and enjoy shorter distances.

Last year I visited Canada for a hiking holiday in the Rockies and curiosity drew me to the local trail and ultra running calendars. I ended up coming out of 3 years of ultra retirement to run 4 short ultras in 4 weeks, ranging from 50 km though to 50 miles.

I'm realistic enough to know that I may succumb to siren call again, should circumstances again prove irresistibly alluring. Whether that be 2016 or 2026, who knows?

I still would love to pull out another "final" big race, (Hardrock or Ultra Tour Mt Fuji being particularly attractive), but I am content with what the sport has given me.

I am going to remember this right here

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When all is said and done. More is usually said than done
Ba Ba Booey

This is something I need to work on. My concern isn't pulling a muscle, it is tripping and falling. Along those lines, if anyone has any good agility exercises they do for when they can't get to the trails, I would appreciate hearing about them. I find that running stairs helps, but I am sure there are better things.

Thanks so much Anna! Oh my gosh you're not being cheeky! Unless that's a term used for falling on your butt-cheeks on slippery downhills :)

It's a bit counter-intuitive, but the steeper the downhill, the more you should "chop." So on shallow downhills (like CA fire roads), open up and feel free to take long, loping strides that use gravity. But on steeper, technical downhills, focus on keeping your feet under you with strides that more closely resemble high knees. Remember that exercise you did as a kid where you did quick feet high knees? It should feel like that.

Here is a good video to see what I mean: https://www.facebook.com/...s/10155523187090346/

Max taught me most of what I know on this stuff--he won a World Mountain Championship almost solely on the downhill.

Descending like that will limit the chance of pulling a muscle. However, you may fall no matter what! The key with trail running is to remember that falling is rarely all that bad :)

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David Roche
"The Happy Runner" book: https://www.amazon.com/...Longer/dp/1492567647
Coaching: https://swaprunning.com/

I'm on for Marathon des Sables April 8-18th. The emotional roller coaster ride between excitement and terror is very real!

I'm also doing Bryce 100 in June, because somehow running a nasty mountain 100 two months after MdS seems like 'a good idea.' I've done Bryce 100 before, so I definitly know what to expect.

My runs would be so much more exciting if I got to run in an environment like that. Wow.

These central florida roads are getting... old. :)

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@floathammerholdon | @partners_in_tri

100% chance I would look more like this:


I also just signed up for Uwharrie 100 in October, so its a good chance i'll be picking your brain some more between now and then

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_________________________________________________
When all is said and done. More is usually said than done
Ba Ba Booey

They have a 100 on Uwharrie trails?!!?! Oh my god that is crazy and epic.

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David Roche
"The Happy Runner" book: https://www.amazon.com/...Longer/dp/1492567647
Coaching: https://swaprunning.com/

Central Florida has some good trails too! Plus, gators are good training partners because they provide some structured urgency to interval training.

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David Roche
"The Happy Runner" book: https://www.amazon.com/...Longer/dp/1492567647
Coaching: https://swaprunning.com/

I wouldn't think about heel striking--that is not something you want to key off of. Instead, when you are on very steep slopes or technical ground, think of short, choppy strides. My cadence is usually at 175ish during a longer race, but on technical descents it can get up over 200.

Imagine you are running past a 180 degree switchback. How would you stride? The most efficient way is to chop your feet around the outside. The same idea applies to technical ground when you need to course-correct constantly without really thinking about it.

I love your idea of going up and down the hill! Awesome training stimulus and will bomb-proof your quads. You rock Anna!

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David Roche
"The Happy Runner" book: https://www.amazon.com/...Longer/dp/1492567647
Coaching: https://swaprunning.com/

This needs to be pinned at the top of the thread, its so true!

That and "the real race doesn't begin until mile 80!"

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@davempratt

I am doing the Mount Mitchell Challenge down in North Carolina next month. 40 miles round trip up to the summit and back down to town.
April 2nd, I'll make my attempt at a second 100 miler, that being up in Northern Jersey at the NJ Ultra Fest (http://www.njtrailseries.com)

So far that's it, but my *dream* ultra isn't a race, but rather to bride a few people into crewing me and running the Northville-Lake Placid Trail, up in the Adirondacks. 130 miles (give or take). I was hoping to try to attempt that this fall, but am not sure it's going to happen.

I just did a 50K in January (also with the njtrailseries) and experimented with some homemade oatmeal pancakes for race food. I added some chia and ground flax. I liked the results, even though it wasn't the fastest race I've ever done. Felt pretty good throughout.

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_______________________
"I believe that I'll finish." - Herb Brown (IMLP 2012)
"100 miles is not that far." - Karl Meltzer

Jumping in late on this, but glad there's a thread going since there doesn't really seem to be any good ultra forums on the web.

I've already run Bandera 100K this year. Not sure what else I'm doing in the way of races (trying to figure out that now), but definitely doing R2R2R first weekend of may.

If anyone is in Texas or wants to come down to Texas, my trail team puts on a series of races and i'm the RD for one of them. www.spectrumtrailracing.com I have discount codes of anyone is interested.

With a username like that why aren't you going to be at the BCS Ultra in a few weeks?

I love both of those vids:-) Man, I wish I could do downhills like that...

I got into trails and ultras last year with a Skyrun marathon and my first 50km. I was training for my next 50km in October when my knee inflated a bit severely with bruised bones - probably because I wan't running downhill like those guys. 12 weeks off running, a serious rehab program and I'm just starting to get back into it and I'm definitely planning more ultras.

Not sure what I'll do, but I'm not short of options down here:-)


http://www.tassietrailfest.com.au/
http://adventurefestival.com/trail-running-2/
http://www.buffalostampede.com.au/
http://runningwild.net.au/alpine-runs/razorback-run.html

because they decided to choose the same date as the race i'm RD for. I set my date before they set theirs. Last year their race was in March. Only so many dates when you are trying to schedule around some of the other big texas races. Unfortunate, b/c I was hoping to race there this year.

So after my very cold (by Fla. standards) morning run, my knee is starting to ache. I've got 40 miles so far this week and planned on doing just a short really easy one tomorrow, but many times in the past my knee pain has been attributed to a lack of muscular/joint strength. How much time should I devote to strengthening exercises and what should I focus on? Body weight stuff (lunges, air squats) or should I make my way to the squat rack? Also, how much time (if any) does everyone stretch/roll?

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@floathammerholdon | @partners_in_tri

I figure this is far enough down so none of the crazies will be checking in...DO NOT TOUCH WEIGHTS. They don't help with running, unless you have unlimited time and know exactly what you are doing :)

Instead, spend 10 min a day doing a mix of mobility/flexibility. The best article written on this is by Jay Johnson: http://www.runnersworld.com/...g/give-me-15-minutes

That simple routine is all you need to do to maximize your chances at staying healthy while also increasing performance.

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David Roche
"The Happy Runner" book: https://www.amazon.com/...Longer/dp/1492567647
Coaching: https://swaprunning.com/

Dave, do you ever recommend running by time instead of milage? Especially due to recovery/injury? For example, running on pave ment at a 9:30 pace is the same effort on some of the technical trails here in Montana where I am reduced to a 14/15 min pace or more. I do my long runs based on the harder trails, (training for a 100 and very tech 50k) but should I do the long runs by time.......or even lets say a 12 miler on the day after a long run, stay on pavement and get it done in 2 hrs with same effort than due the tech trail that would be an hr longer?..............not sure if that make sense.....I am in my late fifties

Good to see some fellow NCers on here. I'll be doing the Southern Tour race in Wilmington as part of a relay. I did the Savannah R2T 50k a few weeks ago and had a great time. Thought about doing Gator Trail but it's on my anniversary weekend and we are getting out of town. I am running the Mountains to Sea Trail 50k on my birthday in April. Going to add on a few extra miles to make it 35 miles on my 35th birthday.

For my ultra training, I did solely time based running based on terrain made it different mileage depending on how good I felt and how the weather was.

Awesome questions! My general philosophy is run by time early in training cycles, and distance later in training cycles. So if you have a technical 50k in 4 months (Rut for you?), just do long runs by time for 2 months, working up to 4ish hours (assuming the 50k will take a long time). Then, when you are fit and healthy, start running by distance. Focus on specificity for distance-based runs--if it's technical, do them on technical terrain. For the time-based runs, you can do whatever you'd like :)

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David Roche
"The Happy Runner" book: https://www.amazon.com/...Longer/dp/1492567647
Coaching: https://swaprunning.com/

Thanks......Rut in beginning of Sept......Big Horn 100 in June. Thanks again. Did an 18 miler in snow and mud that took well over four. In coming months I have some 14 milers going over passes that take 4, yet on flatter terrain around home that would be well over an hour less
Thanks again.

I don't really lift weights too much, but I do a 45 minute TRX workout 1-2 times a week for strength training and it has made a MASSIVE difference. I've noticed benefits due to increased core strength and my legs take much longer to fatigue, especially on hilly courses.

As was just mentioned...core strength is big. Work your core regularly and get a strong midsection and hips. I've been slacking on this and paid for it yesterday on my long run, I kept falling into a slouched over/hips back horrible posture and my form just fell all apart.

See ya there

Have you done it before? What you using for training plan, and if you don't mind, what age you in

Any recommendations? I have a suspension system at work, and I am looking to knock the dust off of it and gain some strength for this upcoming season

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_________________________________________________
When all is said and done. More is usually said than done
Ba Ba Booey

Turd where are you getting your long runs done at?

Mostly I go down river road (its near my house also close to snows cut) and from there I will either head toward Kure Beach, I do the trails in CB state park. I've also parked at the aquarium and run to Bald Head and back on the beach. A few longer runs in WB as well

You racing this year? If so, where?

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_________________________________________________
When all is said and done. More is usually said than done
Ba Ba Booey

I'll be attempting my first 50K this year. Playin' Possum 50K in Delaware, OH. It's mid May.

Very nice! Mid May in Ohio should be nice. Will you check back in on here and let us know how it goes??

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_________________________________________________
When all is said and done. More is usually said than done
Ba Ba Booey

I may attempt my first 50k this year, "First Day of Winter" in West Portsmouth OH. Also very intrigued by the Cloudsplitter 100. Looks like a kind of adventure I've never had.

No plans. I am finally finishing up nursing school in May so just trying to get through that. After school and hopefully after I snag a job I want to get back to running (I had to sell my bike as I downsized, so no tri's).
I often have thoughts of going long and seem drawn to the JFK 50 miler. I also plan on getting back to my homeland and tackling the Comrades some time before I am totally aged and using a walker.

I'm down in San Antone, and am surprised I haven't heard of this trail series. I might have to give it a try, especially if there is a discount code!

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@davempratt

I ran the Frosty 50K in Winston-Salem, NC in early January and have been toying with doing a 50 miler later in the year, maybe the USNWC one in October.

�It�s not an adventure until something goes wrong.� -Yvon Chouinard

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"What's your claim?" - Ben Gravy
"Your best work is the work you're excited about" - Rick Rubin

re. Bighorn....

No, I have not run it.

I don't have training plans. I try to run about an hour each day that I can carve out time, and try to get in some long runs on weekends. I am probably on the lower end of typical mileage for ultra guys? If I had to guess, I'd say 50 miles most weeks, rarely more than 80. This will only be my 5th hundred, so I am far from an expert.

I am 49, but I don't remember any ultras breaking results out in age groups. The youngest and oldest finishers might get recognized, everyone else is thrown together in the same pot. If that is not the case, then I guess I don't pay attention.

Yeah. not sure why I said age groups....know better. I am following relentless forward progress on this. As in my earlier post, this is my third try at this one. Hope I get it. Made it half, so if any questions on course, let me know

I had planned on running The Bethel Moonlight Boogie again (and actually finishing it this year), but that is a if I'm able to lick this hamstring/piriformis/it band injury that has kept me from running for the last 4+ weeks.

If you haven't run the Moonlight Boogie, it is a fun 50-miler that starts at 6pm. It's run on rural roads (5 houses total) located north of Rockingham.

I'm in Cary, and have no desire to run Umstead.

I actually go to a class at my gym at work, so I don't have to think about it.

However, I have gone in by myself. We use the TRX bands, but also do some stuff on the floor, usually incorporating Bosu balls to get that same instability to work the core. I like doing squats (bosu), reverse lunges with foot in the strap, hamstring curls, planks with feet in the bands, pushups with feet in the bands, chest press, triceps, row, bicep curls, sprinters start (squats at 45 or more degree angle), and a lot of other variants. i try to keep my feet close together on most things to work the core more.

Resurrecting this thread....................hope your training went well......My bib is 151.....hope to see you out there...I avg just a hair under 60 per week since Jan 1.....was not able to get the 50 done my training called for.....but a few over 25 in the mnts.....will see Fri if enough

I'm glad you resurrected it! Somehow I missed this earlier in the year (probably because I hadn't convinced myself that ultras were my thing yet...but I've changed my mind since I promised my wife I'd take this year off from IM). Planning my first 50k at the US National Whitewater Center in October. Lots of great info on this thread and great to see so many other NC peeps.

I am glad you put this race on here. It looks fascinating. The videos, from the race, suck you right in. One of these days, I hope to take part

I am considering my first ultra next month. It's 55k (Indian Creek Fifties). So 34 miles and about 7K feet of ascent. Not sure if I am ready for it. I did a 19 mile trail run with 5,000 feet of ascent last weekend. It took over 4 hours. It was steep (obviously) and technical. I was toasted at the end. I didn't fuel very well and I ran a bit faster the first lap than I should have. It was interesting doing a training run that was more than an hour longer than my marathon time. The race itself looks way less technical and overall its less steep, but not by tons.

My game plan would be to slow down by a minute or 2 per mile from my long training run and fuel consistently. I almost feel like it should be a long day of hiking although I will not be able to resist trying to run the whole thing. Some of the race reports and people I've talked to have their first ultra before even running a marathon.

So, I'd be interested to hear what people have peaked at for long runs before their (first) ultras. I still have another long run coming up and I may go run part of the course.

full disclosure i haven't read any of this thread yet, but i'll be getting up at the butt crack of dawn tomorrow to drive up to Steamboat Springs to 'crew' for my buddy doing the RunRabbitRun 100 mile trail race. i'm pretty excited to see the atmosphere around an event like this. should be interesting meeting him at aid stations at 130 and 430 in the morning!

I will be at the Hinson Lake 24-Hour event in Rockingham, NC next weekend.

When this thread started, I was plotting my revenge for bailing out last year after 48 miles in the first 11:30. I was already battling calf cramps and reduced to mostly walking when a friend notified us that a massive thunderstorm was approaching (it had already been raining all day). Since I was tent camping on-site I decided to pack up and head home. Drove through heavy downpours on my way home, so was OK with my decision, but when registration opened in January (it fills very quickly) I had revenge on my mind,

And then... On February 18th I had a heart attack just as I was finishing a short, easy run.

I started walking daily as soon as I left the hospital. In June, since rehab was going well, my cardiologist cleared me to run as much as I felt like as long as I kept it easy. It has been an incredibly slow process, but my mileage has been steadily building up (though still very slow) and I will be taking a much more conservative walk/run approach from the beginning this year.

Looking forward to a fun, low-key travelling buffet with friends. :)

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__________________________________________________
Happy trails,
Chris

I was going to run the Superior 100 last weekend and after training 8 months to crush it, got a hip/butt injury 3 weeks before and had to skip it. Now I'm even more motivated than ever to sign up for next year and do it as my first 100. Stupid injuries!

Also plan on running the Zion Traverse next May in addition to a few 50Ks and 50 Milers as training runs for Superior.

I missed the resurrection back in June (thank goodness, gave me time to come to terms with this haha)

First DNF of my nearly 30 yr career. First race my kids came to. Doesn't take a Mensa-guy to make that link - kids are bad luck!!!

I started getting quad pain going up to the halfway AS. It progressively got worse going back down to the river crossing AS. I hung out there for an hour, hoping it would get better. I only had 30 miles to go, and had something like 13hrs left. I started off and it took me 1hr16 min to go 1 mile. So I quit like a pussy. If I would have had heavy gloves and knee pads, I would have crawled it on in - I mean 13 hours left, plenty of time!

Anyway, I am making another stab at it next week at the Bear 100. I feel I have have trained well, and smart, zero issues. We'll see.

I've been forced to run around my yard which is about ~.25 per two laps.

It sounds about like this ultra! 1.5 mile laps for 24 hours. That has to feel like jogging around a hula-hoop. At least umstead is 12.5 miles.

Good Luck! Take care of that heart!

Looking for shoe recommendations for an ultra. I run marathons in NB 1400. I've done a 50 miler a couple years ago in Newtons (I hadn't found my 1400s yet). Should I consider a more cushioned shoe? Or just size up? Hokas? I'm doing the 110 with Donna in Jax Beach in February. All asphalt. Kind of a stage race, 84 miles Saturday starting at 7am then join the marathon Sunday morning at 7. Combined times.

What do you guys do for shoes? My feet were beat to crap last year after the 50. Doing the 100 this year and debating changing shoes every 25, or at least halfway. Does it help? Last year I was in Hokas too. At some point I am wondering if it is not about the softness.

7 weeks to go and thinking this is going to really, really hurt.

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Brian

There is a US version of Trans Alps called, not surprisingly, Trans Rockies. There are 3-day and 6-day versions, and it basically functions the same way. Get up, run, hang out the rest of day with awesomely fit people, sleep in a tent. I did the 3 day and HIGHLY recommend this race. Fantastic experience all around. Price is steep, but considering the logistics and accommodations, I think it's still a good value.

http://transrockies-run.com/

How was/is the Southern Tour race? I've been considering that as my first 50k (the one I had planned this fall didn't work out bc of injury)

I've done a 50 in Saucony Kinvaras without any problems (terrain wasn't rocky/rooty), which is what I had run on pavement with as well. Didn't change shoes at all during the race. Now I am using Hoka Claytons and so far (~31mi training runs again for a non rocky/rooty terrain) they have been superb and feet feel in good condition. I intend to use the Claytons in a 100 later this year and don't plan to change them during the race unless I crap myself or something...

Looking after your feet is more important than changing shoes.

Knowing how to prevent and, if necessary, treat blisters is Ultra 101. Prevention is usually easier than treatment.

Your long training runs and shorter races should give a strong indication of which shoes are most comfortable for a 100 miler.

Blisters are primarily caused by two things: pressure and friction. Plan to eliminate these.

Preventative taping of particular spots where you are susceptible to blistering may be useful. Lube over the top of tape.

If a "hot spot" develops mid-race, don't wait to treat it. It won't get better on it's own. 5 minutes of foot maintenance early can save hours in the back end of the race.

Tape and lube are your friends.

Probably a good idea to bring some foot-aid stuff. I take pretty good care of my feet though.

Next thing on my mind, what, if any, real food do you eat? Can you make it on energy drinks, gels, etc.? Somebody told me chicken, cheese, avocado quesadilla. That sounds like a lot. I know the usual stuff at the aid stations. I would rather keep it simple. Last year for my 50 I did GU Roctane drink and gels until my stomach shut down. That started before the race, so not really a result of my plan that day. I train doing a gel every 4 miles.

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Brian

I'll be doing the Rio Del Lago 100 miler, Nov 5-6 http://rio100mile.com/

I'll be doing the Birkie Trail Marathon this coming Saturday as a tune-up. I've only done a 50 miler previously so this will be my first attempt at 100 miles.

what kind of tape do you use for blister prevention?
lately i am getting an almost blister on the side of the ball of my foot. kinesio tape did not stay stuck.

I'm interested here as well and about fueling. I get a under the callous blister on the long run and would love a tape solution. As for fuel, I'm still not sure what I'll in November. I'm trying different things but nothing is all that good right now.

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Brian
“Eat and Drink, spin the legs and you’re going to effin push (today).” A Howe

During the March 15 Science of Ultra podcast they had John VonHof who talked a lot about foot/inside shoe taping strategies

http://www.scienceofultra.com/...gory=Health+and+Care

Here's his book as well: https://www.amazon.com/...care#customerReviews

I've used Gatorade and Skratch for my Ironman racing but recently tried Tailwind and I'm pretty sure I'll be using it for my 100 miler in November

is there enough calories in that ? no solid food for 24 hours? I've never done a 100 miler, but I would worry about getting the shits on only liquid nutrition. OTOH, if you did an Ironman I guess it'll work for you going a bit longer

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Brian
“Eat and Drink, spin the legs and you’re going to effin push (today).” A Howe

I plan on taking a GuRoctane or just GU per 60 to 90 min, at least to start and will graze on aid station food (salty chips, etc) as the race wears on. Will probably have applesauce packs in drop bags as well. I've experimented with different solid foods on my long runs (up to 30 mi) and have tolerated everything well. Tailwind will be mixed 2 scoops per 24 oz bottle (200 cals).

Heading to Sacramento in the morning to take on the Rio Del Lago 100 Mile Endurance Run this weekend. High of 71 on Saturday with lows Fri and Sat nights in low 50s with just a chance of showers Sat night. A little warm on Sat but I'll take it.

Good luck out there. Have you done a 100M race before?

Good luck! My first 100 is on the 12th. It will be much warmer than I planned on, but it was a pretty hot summer. Feeling ready. Now just need a little bit of luck myself. Let us know how it goes.

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Brian

How did the race go for you? The weather was outstanding. I was out there as well. It was by far, the toughest event I've every done! This tops the list over 2013 IMLT and the Death Ride by a long shot.

Have my first Ultra coming up in February. The Dunes 100 miler on soft terrain which includes lots of sugar sand. Recently did my first full distance triathlon and trying to figure out how much harder the 100 miler would be.

I had a good base coming off IM Boulder in August (second full distance tri). RDL 100 was a different beast entirely for me. Prior to Saturday, I had never run more than 31 miles or climbed more than 9,000'. RDL was 100 miles with 13,000' of gain. My biggest mistake was my failure to properly train or plan. I assumed that I could get by on fitness from Boulder. I finished but I certainly learned a lot. I was a complete rookie out there.

A few takeaways.

1. Take care of your feet as mentioned in an earlier post! A $20 pair of ultra gaiters would have saved me from 45 miles of sheer pain. Rocks and gravel were constantly in my shoes. Also, have the right socks!
2. Have a plan for nutrition! I fell short on sodium intake and was unable to take in calories later in the race
3. Light - Be sure to have a back-up battery or headlamp. I started losing my light at mile 97 and had to rely on a crappy little Energizer light. I deliberately left my back-up battery at mile 74 thinking I'd finish earlier than I did. Oops.
4. Be sure to have good pacers and communicate your race plan and your needs ahead of time. I had good pacers and wouldn't have finished without them!
5. Training: I averaged less than 40 miles per week during the 12 weeks leading up to RDL. This was not enough for me.
   

Anyone interested in starting an Un-official 2017 Ultra running thread? I'm trying to get some motivation for next year's season as I totally took 2016 off completely.

Yes I would. I'm doing IMNZ in March 17 and was really thinking about doing my first ultra in Sept 17. It's a 100km, longest I've ever run so far is 26km!

Running my first 100+ in February in Jacksonville. The 110 with Donna. It's kind of a stage race with 84 on Saturday then join a marathon on Sunday morning. It's all asphalt, which sucks. Only doing it because of the cause, breast cancer research.

I'm looking forward to my first (JFK50), but doubt there will be a second. I'm done with the big weeks and tapering for the race on the 19th. The last few weeks I've been getting my mileage in and will run into cyclists (road and MTB). I'll see them and think, wow that looks like fun. I get all wistful for a nice day on the bike.

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Brian
“Eat and Drink, spin the legs and you’re going to effin push (today).” A Howe

I would.

I'm returning to the Marathon des Sables (Morocco) in April. I did it last year and have delusions of cracking the top-50 this time. I am also going to try and raise a significant amount of money for a local charity as well.

The plan then is the North Face Endurance 50 Miler in July (Ontario, Canada). I'm then toying either with Ironman Mont-Tremblant in August or the Ultra-Trail Hurricana 125 KM in September (both in Quebec, Canada).

You could start one, or we can wait until closer to the new year. I have two ultras planned for next year, so I am in.

I'm in! 2017 will be a transition year for me as I'll be moving the family somewhere at some point (thanks for the clarity, USAF...). Won't know if I'll be able to sign up for a 140.6, so I'll be focusing on getting into the Bull Run 50 or the North Face 50 in NoVA in April.

Congrats on your finish. This was my first attempt at the 100 mile distance. Unfortunately, I had to pull the plug at mile 67 (Hwy 49 aid station) due to severe nausea/vomiting. In hindsight I should have stayed at the aid station much longer to try to reset my stomach because I had plenty of time to get under 30 hours. But, in the moment I didn't think there was ANY way I could make it to the next aid station (3.5 miles away) where there was a medical staff present. I was moving very slowly and my balance was off, which on narrow trails in the dark just wasn't safe. I've already registered for the Bandera 100k (January 7) to get my 2018 WS100 qualifier under my belt and then I'll pick another 100 miler for later in the year.

In as well. I just completed my first 50 miler a few weeks ago (Pilot to Hanging Rock, great race http://pm2hrultras.com/)

I am contemplating a 40 miler after first of the year and then 100k in the fall with the leap to 100 miles next spring.

The 50 miler beat me up pretty good after a nasty tumble at 4 miles and now a recurring calf/achilles issue.

Count me in. Doing my first 100 miler in April! Could use the sounding board for advice and motivation.

Count me in for when the 2017 thread starts.

I have a 40-miler at the end of April, and maybe a second ultra in the back half of the year.

Definitely interested in ultra ideas for 2017 - looking for a destination race. I did Bryce Canyon 50k in June this year and it was incredibly beautiful, though brutal and hot. Watch the Ultra Adventures video on Bryce and you won't be able to resist. I'm waiting to see if the 50s for Yo Momma in Ohio is going to happen next year, no date set but it's close, a fun local event, and I did the 50k as my first ultra a few years ago.

I'll just mention that it's hard to get elevation training here, but my coach had me do the Stairmaster working up to 30 min twice a week to prep for Bryce and that was a huge help.

How many of you guys have done Western States? Is it like the Kona of ultra running, or just another race?

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Brian

It is probably the most well-known 100 in the US (oldest too, I think?). If there is one in the US with name recognition (like Kona), I think this would probably be it. But also like Kona, you don't just sign up and show up. There is a lottery for the 270-ish participants. Last year a 1st time applicant had a 3.7% chance of being drawn. You double your number of lottery tickets for each successive year that you are not drawn. But each year the number of applicants goes up (2017 = 4300, 2016 = 3524, 2015 = 2566), so comparatively, odds also decrease every year.

When you say "...just another race" - what are you looking for? There are definitely harder races, longer races, higher races, etc. What floats your boat?

Oh, full disclosure - I've never done WS100. I am 0-for-4 in the lottery. I should be up to about a 20% chance of getting drawn this year.

Also should have mentioned that you have to have completed a qualifying race (they're listed on their site, usually 100mi, but there are a handful of 100K's) before you may enter their lottery.

For those that can make it north of the border, Sulphur Springs Trail Run has a 200 mile option in addition to many other distances. It's not for the faint of heart though. It's a loop structure, with 1740 feet elevation gain per 20km lap. I subbed in for an injured runner & did a leg of the 100 mile relay (8 runners x 20km each) 2 years ago. I was out for about a week afterwards - I ended up losing both big toenails too.

Link

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I just did my first 100. Trying to decide what's next. Everyone is telling me to try to get into WS, but I'm not sure more 100's are in the future though. I am very glad I did it. Incredible experience. It's been 3 days, so I have time to ponder such things with all the time I am not running now. :)

200 miles... No thanks.

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Brian

5x 100 miler finisher (4x WS100) and paced at several other 100s. I have been at the race every year since 2002 as racer, pacer or crew. I would equate Western States to Kona (still have to do Kona though) in terms of notoriety, attention, crowds and how runners are treated. There are tougher courses and some would say more beautiful, but I still want to run WS again although it might take several years to get back in. Thinking of getting a qualifier done in 2017 and throw my name in the bucket for 2018. There are many 100s out there that I want to run, but there is something about WS100 that keeps me coming back.

Finished my first trail ultra (VT50, 50 miler) in September. Lots of lessons were learned.

I was good through mile 31. The wheels came off for miles 32-38. Luckily, my neighbor was doing the race with me (and he started off more cautiously). He caught up with me at mile 38, and I was able to re-focus and stay with him for the next 8 miles. Then, he started to fade, and I had regained some momentum, so I was able to pull him along for the last 4 miles. During that last 10 miles, we swore to eachother we wouldn't do this race again.

The next day, we texted back and forth committing to sign up for 2017. Our wives are still baffled.

We are now setting our strategy for 2017 so that we will get in a few practice trail races (30k and up) earlier in the year so we can be ready for VT50 in September.

Coree Woltering, ran the tunnel hill 50 miler in Illinois this last weekend in 5:30:15. My math may be off a little bit but I think that is better than 9 miles per hour for 50 miles straight. I don't think it is a very hilly race but that is some seriously fast running for a long time.

Crazy.

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Jason
None of the secrets of success will work unless you do.

Sorry to hear this. I remember that aid station well. The stomach and foot issues were difficult. Best of luck in January!

I think he did it in a speedo too.

.

I know he did it in a speedo. He blew up last year trying to go about that time and *only* ran 6:18. Maybe if he had the speedo last year he would have made it. :)

There were a few kids out there for the 50M. I don't know if they stopped at 26.8 (start/finish) area or what. Two of them were with an adult. One was alone, with a phone from what I could tell.

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Brian

0-4 as well. and yes, about 20% this year, compared to about 18% last year when we had half the tickets.

brief RR from JFK50, as once in a lifetime experience for me.
It was my first ultra. I was aiming for under 9 hours. I'm a 3:09 marathon runner, so I figured I could run 50 miles slower, but longer. The race is very well organized and has a great small town vibe. The aid stations were great, lots of voluteers. They did need more bathroom access at the start. Weather was perfect to start, 45ish and getting sunny. We ran 2.5 miles on the road then turned right onto the Appalachia Trail for 12.5 miles. That section was tough, lots of climbing and difficult footing. I had started at the back of the field due to waiting in line at the bathroom (see above). So I got stuck in the crowd. We walked most of the climbs and even some of the descents b/c of footing. The trail is narrow, so passing was difficult without being an ass. I did think that was probably good because it prevented me from going out too fast in the beginning and I didn't trip and fall. I finished the AT section a little past 3 hours. I have no concept of how the winner went so fast on such a technical trail. I guess that skill is part of the "elite" status of those folks. I had planned 3 hours for the AT, so I was a bit behind, but not in any rush.

Then we turned right onto the C&O canal for 26+ miles. The canal is a dead flat gravel tow path The aid stations were about every 4 miles. I hit the canal and immediately felt good and settled in at 9:00 pace. I'd thought I'd start feeling the race by mile 30. At 28 miles my hamstring seized up for no apparent reason. I walked for 5 minutes and it magically went away. Now my pace slowed to 10 min pace and I was taking walk breaks every 2 miles to eat. Definite mental issues from 30-42. I didn't feeling like quiting, but I was not feeling the joy of running, to say the least. By now the weather was turning. It was 75 and sunny, then a cold front came in. The temp dropped to the 50s, strong winds, leaves blowing everywhere and sticks falling from the trees. I sensed an "epic" day was in hand. I hit the aid station at 42 miles, exited the canal and went up a big ass hill. I walked the hill then started running. I actually felt good, ran the first 4 miles at 9:45ish. The last 4 miles were a struggle. I had left my arm warmers and gloves with a friend on the trail and needed them, a rookie mistake. The temp dropped to the 40s with hail and then rain. I slogged out the last miles dreaming of a hot bath. At the finish I went straight to medical for hot packs and 20 minutes on a cot wrapped in blankets. I think if I'd kept my cold weather gear I'd have run 1-2 min faster and I know I'd have felt 100% better. Overall I finished at 9:31. Much slower than I'd hoped for, but fast enough.

Fuel: camelbak marathon pack with water. I refilled it maybe 3 times. I didn't want to run out of water but didn't want to carry more than I needed to. I erred on more water and finished with it 1/2 full
Salt: I like salt sticks. It wasn't hot , but I like their chews, the crunch and taste appealed to me. I ended up eating 1-2 salt stcik capsules with caffiene every hour and maybe 1 chewy salt every hour.
CHO: for the first 3 hours I ate 1 bonk breaker every hour, then ate something every 2 miles for the rest (every 20 minutes). I took a lot of the on-course gu gels or 1/2 of a clif bar each time.

Post race: food at the finish then dinner at home of hamburger , FF & goose island bourbon co stout that I've been saving for months and the right occasion.
post-race: still tired and sore. I'm glad I did it. I know that mile 25 of a marathon will not feel so bad next time. I'm not planning on another ultra though. I miss riding my bike too much.

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Brian
“Eat and Drink, spin the legs and you’re going to effin push (today).” A Howe

Congrats! Just finishing is a great accomplishment.

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Brian

I'm pretty sure Walmsley is not human.

Good luck in the lottery. Doesn't look good for those of us with one ticket. http://www.wser.org/lottery2017.html

Total Tickets: 11022 Total Entrants: 4259 Last Updated: 11-22-2016 09:10:42 PST Ticket Count (Years) Entrants Tickets 64 (7) 2 128 32 (6) 31 992 16 (5) 112 1792 8 (4) 256 2048 4 (3) 396 1584 2 (2) 1016 2032 1 (1) 2446 2446

Just registered for the Squamish 50/50 again!!

2016 I entered it to see if I could survive, having never done trail running before,but was able to stumble my way through the full distance Challenge Penticton in 2015 after a short reverse build coming off of half marathon and 10 mile tt style fitness.

This time I have a much better base, and I can handle a much higher training load, it will be interesting to see how 2017 shapes up as I will be seeing how fast I can go, rather than just trying to survive.

Or at least that's the hope!

Jim is a stud for sure. From being a sub-4 guy in college to absolutely dominating Western States up until the wrong turn at mile 93. I lost quite a few Strava KOMs when he moved to my hometown during his time with the Air Force.

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Matt

After just completeing my first 100 I really didn't plan on doing another. And certainly not soon.. I completed enjoyed it and it went almost perfect, even though not as planned. I am going to put into the 2018 WS lotto, but that is a loooonnngggg shot. The Tahoe 200 seems like a good challenge in 10 years or so. Or maybe Canadian death race...

Happy running fellas.

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Brian

nice job.

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Brian
“Eat and Drink, spin the legs and you’re going to effin push (today).” A Howe

On my short list!

tomorrow is rejection day!

good luck! (as long as you aren't taking my spot)

Yes, good luck to all!

With 8 tickets in each (4th year), my chances of being drawn:
Western States = 18.1%
Hardrock = 4.7%

Since those odds are pretty long, I already pulled the trigger on Tahoe 200

0 tickets for me for 2017 for either race but after Bandera 100K in January and Bighorn in June I'll start accumulating tickets for 2018. Good luck everyone.

Good luck. I will put in for 2018. Do you have to run a qualifying race each year to keep trying?

I really thought about the LT 200, but couldn't pull the trigger. Good luck!

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Brian

Yes for Western States in order to keep your number of tickets, but if I read the complicated lottery procedure for Hardrock correctly I think you can miss a year (?)

For Hardrock, a qualifying race is good for 2 years. But you do have to apply both of those years.

how long until I feel normal again? I completed my first 50miler 2 weeks ago. I took off a week and then got back to my usual mixed training trying to remember how to ride a bike and swim. 14 days post race my leg speed is awful which I expected, but don't like. Plus my legs are just tight. Today I ran my usual LSD route and it was a struggle.

Any advice on how long it'll take to come back to normal and suggested workouts ?

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Brian
“Eat and Drink, spin the legs and you’re going to effin push (today).” A Howe

Signed up for my first ultra, the Hallucination Hundred in September in Michigan. I have had absolutely no interest in getting on my bike since September but I have been slowly building my run mileage so I might as well set an audacious running goal for 2017.

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Jason
None of the secrets of success will work unless you do.

I attended the Western States Lottery in today with about 250 other ultra-runners hoping to see their name drawn. What an absolute electric atmosphere. I didn't get in but two of my buddies, the only other two I knew who entered, got their names pulled nearly back-to-back. There were 11,021 tickets for 250 slots with 4248 entrants. It was really cool to see how much of the World wants to run in our back-yard!! Chile, Argentina, France, Panama, UK, Czech Republic, Germany, United Arab Emirates, China, Australia, etc.

http://www.ultralive.net/lottery

lottery loser again. :(

registered for Bandera to check the box for 2018.

Rev3 is producing an Ultra on Oct 7, 2017 in Richmond, VA.
100-miles Richmond to Williamsburg to Richmond in conjunction with the 2d Anniversary of the Virginia Capital Trail.
50-mile, 50K and Relay options available.
There will be a press release soon.

How does the lottery work if you don't get picked? I am eligible for 2018 based on a race in Nov 2016. If I do not get picked do I need to do another race to be in the lottery with two chances for 2019?

Thanks,

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Brian

Yes, if you don't get selected your ticket remains in the lottery in subsequent years but you do need to requalfy each year.

It's a 4 or 6 person relay only, not an ultra, the 100 mile race anyway. I didn't see anything on their website about the shorter distances.

How does one make transition from marathons/ LC racing to Ultras?

Here's what I did in prep for my first 50k:

1. Stop swimming - Not a big deal for me. Even though I've been a swimmer since I was a kids I can take it or leave it.

2. Drastically reduce biking - I was probably down to about 50 miles a month at recovery pace.

3. Dramatically increase running - During my tri days I avg'd 30-40 miles per week. Over about 18 months I've built that up to my standard week is 50-55 miles and some weeks are in the 70-75 range. So far I've been able to handle it and withstand injury. In preparation for a 100k next Fall I plan to build my standard week to around 60 miles with occasional blips into the 70's and 80's.

Honestly I could have handled riding a bit more but time-wise work and family didn't allow for it. Part of the reason I switch to a single sport focus. Btw, I couldn't be happier. Even though I wasn't a runner as a kid it's my favorite of the three and I think about it all the time.

Shows how much time I spend in the main forum - just saw this thread today.

I've given up on tri entirely to play in the woods. Have already run a couple of races/events this year - an 8-hour indoor ultra on a 232m cement track (never again!), a 3-hour on trail and a 4-hour fatass a friend put on as a fundraiser. Real race season starts in April with the Pick Your Poison 50k (12.5k loop up and down ski hills) as a training race for Sulphur Springs 100k in late May, then The Limberlost Challenge 56k in July, Haliburton Forest 50mi in September, the brand new Sticks n'Stones 50k (put on by friends) and Horror Trail 6-hour in October.

Figure that ought to keep me busy for this year, but still allow some down time for a week each of backcountry canoeing and motorcycle touring, plus a couple of long weekend backpacking trips.

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__________________________________________________________
ill advised racing inc.

From marathons to ultras, there isn't much difference in training other than longer long runs. I have no idea what your current fitness level is or what your goals are but a few things I would recommend (I'll assume 50 miler is what you are looking at):

- back to back long runs, not every week if you are injury prone but still aim for 2 long runs per week (long is relative, obviously), I like to do 50 miles over 3 days on ocassion (5/25/20 or similar)
- I like to try and get a 50k long run for a 50 mile race
- try to run on a similar terrain as the race you are training for, at least once a week, preferably for one of the longer runs
- you don't need to do all your running on trails (if you are training for a trail race), mix it up and get some faster running in there
- core/strength exercises
- more mileage is not always better, consistency is key. undertrained is always better than overtrained/injured.

Thanks for the advice. don't think I'll have a problem giving up the other two sports. Maybe I'll continue to swim

Stick boy. Thanks for the advice. Have definitely been enjoying my marathon training especially when I take my long runs off road

Swimming is my recovery from running - my legs feel better when I make it to the pool once or twice a week when logging high mileage, especially since I go for a good stretch in the whirlpool afterward. If I'm short on time or it's the week of a race, though, I ditch it totally since the only lane swim times I can make are late evening and sleep is more important.

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ill advised racing inc.

No need to overthink it. From a marathon background you're ready to step up to 50km, so just find a race and enter. Initial transition complete! :-)

From there you will be starting to mix with experienced ultra runners and you'll find that very helpful. The ultra scene is very friendly, welcoming and forthcoming.

As mentioned, just up your running mileage, the length of your long run and start incorporating back-to-back days if training for 50 mile/100km events.

And, yes, consistency and staying injury-free trumps all else.

Ran my first ever Ultra. I am a relatively new to running ( about 4 years) and really enjoy the sport.
Decided to run my first Ultra last weekend. The Inaugural Dunes 100 in Jupiter Florida. I got very lucky and had some incredible friends give me so much advice and also paced me after the 50 mile mark. The Dunes 100 course is about 40 miles of sugar sand with rolling dunes mixed in. Total of about 2600 ft gain up those freaking dunes. The remaining miles are mostly hard packed dirt with a good amount of roots. DTR ran the event and did a phenomenal job.

Race day temps reached 87 degrees with high humidity( Florida sucks). Around mile 26 I caught up to one of the lead runners (Matt ) and we would run the remainder of the race together. The heat and humidity did a number on us and after the 75 mile aid station it was very difficult to start running again. Without the wisdom of my crew chief/pacer(Nathan) I would of probably DNFd. Those dark miles suck. Me and Matt stuck together and crossed the finish line first and split the $1500 payout.

Even with the brutal course and conditions there were only 4 DNFs in the 50m and 100m and all the the female runners finished in time. Talk about some badass females!!!

Congrats! You know if you win your first one, there's only one way to go now unfortunately lol Impressive job with the heat and humidity, those can be a real killer.




I don't know that I have ever run a 50K that was that flat :)

Thanks. Might give the Keys100 a shot in 2018 and hope to do Badwater 135 before 2020.

Funest part of the Dunes 100 is watching your shoes disappear in the sand going down the Dunes. Kinda like skiing in deep fresh powder.

Assuming we'll just keep this thread going for 2017....I finished Bandera 100K in January so I've got my 2018 WS lottery qualifier done. Now I can concentrate on Bighorn 100 in June and Bear 100 in September. I may try to squeeze in another 100 that has at least 5 or 6 UTMB qualifier points in order to get to the required 15 UTMB points for the 2018 lottery.