– I still have a lot to learn about fueling and hydration on these things. Not sure how many more will come my way, but that is a key factor in peak performance.
– The more you can run trails similar to the race it would be great. Platte River State Park is the closest I have, and that is still 45 minutes away. Not easy for me at this stage of my life.
-Trail runners are a goofy bunch, even in the spectrum of runners. Hard to tell anything about anyone. Seems like everyone is wearing the latest in trail shoes, or”minimalist” kicks, or jackets or whatever. There must have been $10,000 of gear within 20 yards of me.
– In addition to that, the mentality of the starting line is so different from other races. No warming up, hanging out, putting your gear in tubs or bags to be retrieved some time in the upcoming 8 hours. Dudes peeing in the woods, gals peeing in the woods. Laughing because it is 30 degrees out and that is a good thing because the ground is frozen for a little longer.
– For an ultra you absolutely cannot be too serious about it. Because at some time it is going to be horrible and hopefully you did not use too much early on in the race. Hence the waving below. Just chilling. Which is kind of a nice change from the seriousness of a “true” road or track race.
-About all I have now. Until next time.
