madcity girl

Was this year’s race really that much more painful than the last two years, or is the suffering just more recent, and therefore more memorable in its severity? Running 50 miles is always painful, but I’m relatively certain this one hurt more than the others. The day after last year’s race I went on a 30-mile bike ride. Yesterday I struggled to just get out of bed.  As I explained to Larry, even my innards hurt. This year’s race took everything out of me and more.

I felt confident going into the race. I knew the course well, having done the race in both 2010 and 2011. I had done several training runs on the Nordic trails in the weeks leading up to the race, and two 50k races in February and April. Although I had altered my training a bit—replacing  my Sunday “sandwich” runs with long bike rides—it seemed like a  plan that was working. Or so I hoped. And despite the usual set-backs—this time plantar fasciitis and heel pain in April—the pain eased up, allowing me to do a final 32 mile training run on the trails. All in all, I felt prepared and ready to race.

The race began in La Grange (at the Nordic Trailhead) at 6 a.m. on Saturday. I settled into a comfortable pace during the first 9-mile loop. It was a beautiful day—70’s and cloudy, maybe a little humid, but much preferable in my mind to the rain and hail of years past. I focused on nutrition from the beginning—popping salt tablets, drinking a combination of Gatorade and Heed, and sucking down as many PowerBar Gels as I could muster. I patiently walked the steepest hills. I loved seeing so many Dailymile friends out there competing. I was also immediately struck by the talent on the women’s side—the competition was fierce. But everyone was very friendly and encouraging, which made it all fun. I even received an invitation to a kiddie pool ice bath party after the race from a speedy woman who playfully ran down the hills with her arms raised to her sides like an airplane.

I felt pretty good until about mile 26. At that point, everything became harder. My stomach turned and heaved. I was forced to pull off the trail several times to relieve myself in the woods (and prayed the poison ivy and ticks would stay away). My legs ached as if I hadn’t trained for the distance. I asked myself repeatedly, why do you do this to yourself? Wouldn’t it be so nice to be walking around the square at the farmers’ market right now? I watched as other runners dropped out of the race and contemplated doing so myself. I was in a world of hurt. For someone who prides herself in staying positive, I was hurdling negative thoughts at myself left and right.

I can’t tell you how many times I tripped on roots and rocks on the trail. It seemed like anytime I’d look up from the trail (to say hello to a friend or just look forward), I’d inevitably trip and begin catapulting forward. And as I became increasingly tired, my ability to simply lift my feet from the trail, enough to clear small obstacles,  dramatically lessened. I also remember being frustrated by the number of racers rocking head phones (I saw dozens), which, according to the rules, were prohibited. These were inevitably the runners who weren’t present enough to know that someone was trying to pass by them on the single track trail. And, honestly, I would have given anything to be able to listen to music during those darker miles.

The miles seemed to tick by so slowly. I’d think I was almost at mile 40, only to come to mile marker 33. Damn. My only saving grace was seeing Larry and my friends Miranda and Shayla at the aid stations. Larry helped fill my water bottle and sent me on my way, replenished with gel packets and salt tablets.  His only advice was to keep running. Ok, I can do this, I told myself. I knew that if I could just get to mile 40, I could find a way to get the last ten miles done.

I don’t know if the shift was primarily mental or physical, but at mile 40, I felt an unexpected surge of energy. I picked up the pace significantly. Suddenly, I was a woman on a mission. I attached myself to the goal of finishing in under 9 hours. I couldn’t do the math, but it seemed remotely possible. At the 40 mile point, my nearest competitors had been 12 and 20 minutes ahead of me, respectively (or so I was told after the race). Over the next 10 miles, I caught both of them. It wasn’t really my goal, but it did feel nice. I felt bad passing one woman so close to the finish line—I didn’t see it coming, and it just sort of happened. Still, I’ve never enjoyed watching a runner pass another runner right at the finish line. So I’ve been going back and forth on that one—telling myself it’s a race and that was okay, while simultaneously scolding myself.

I finished 9th among females with a time of 9 hours and 33 seconds. Just 34 seconds shy of my last-minute goal of coming in under 9 hours. And all I have to say about that is close enough.

Now I need some time to forget about the pain again. The only problem is I don’t have much time.

At 6am tomorrow morning, I’ll begin my 50 mile journey along the Ice Age Trail. The Ice Age Trail 50 has become one of my favorite races of the year—I love the challenge of the distance and the course, which features ridiculously steep climbs and technical sections.

I’ve been pretty consistent the past two years—placing 6th among females on both occasions, with more or less the same time (8:53 in 2010, 8:56 in 2011). I hope to feel strong throughout the race and just enjoy the experience and the community of other trail runners.

The weather should be great—cloudy, with a high of 69 degrees. I always enjoy a slightly warmer day. Anything beats the rain and hail during the 2010 race!

I love this picture of the trail  my friend Krista snapped during a recent training run—nothing looks more inviting! Let’s do this.

As I prepare for next month’s Ice Age 50, I’ve been spending a lot of time running. The last several weekends I’ve driven to La Grange (near Whitewater) to run on the race course. I’m convinced nothing beats trail running—I love zoning out and losing myself in nature, but simultaneously needing to be so in tune with the trail, my body and obstacles that lie ahead.

Lately my long runs are 4+ hours…which, at times, can get a little lonely. I’ve been using my ipod as a way to reward myself at the end of each long run. I’ll tell myself, at mile 20, you can start listening to music. Then I have something to look forward to, and just when I’m starting to feel tired and sluggish, the beat helps put a little bounce back in my step. Here are a few of my favorites. If you have suggestions of other songs to add to the mix, please let me know!

The Beatdown - Gayngs
Interstellar - Frankie Rose
Odessa - Caribou
Kids - MGMT
Helenea Beat - Foster the People
Brush the Heat - Little Dragon
Tribulations - LCD Soundsystem
Fences - Phoenix

Just over a week ago I toed the starting line for the Mad City 50k, joined by friends Krista, Matt and Marty—my dailymile buds. We’re all training for the Ice Age 50 on May 12, and figured the Mad City 50k would be a well-timed test of fitness, not to mention great fun. Krista and I also reasoned that the course was practically in our backyard—the UW Arboretum. Clearly we had to sign up.

In the weeks leading up to the race, I was pleasantly surprised by a constant flurry of e-mail updates from race director, Tim Yanacheck. “Timo” graciously invited racers to contact him directly by e-mail or work phone with any questions we might have. When I picked up my race packet Friday before the race, I was even more astonished by a personal greeting and welcome from Timo, not to mention a bag filled with more race swag than I’ve ever received—a 36-piece box of truffles, a hard-cover copy of the book Once a Runner, a long-sleeve tech tee, water bottle, and of course, string cheese. I had to restrain myself from popping too many truffles the night before the race…it was tough.

Going into the race, I was feeling good about my fitness and training. The warm weather has certainly helped get me out early and more often. On at least a few occasions in the weeks leading up to the race, I ran consecutive loops of the Arboretum to prepare for the five loops I’d need to complete on race day. The only problem is that I had practiced running the loop clockwise, and quickly learned on race day that the course is counterclockwise. Oops. The climbs seemed just a little bit tougher that way.

We began running at 9 a.m. Although it was one of the latest race starts I’ve ever experienced, I was appreciative because it gave me time to both sleep in enjoy my requisite French  press coffee. I was one of 57 solo runners among many baton-carrying, uniform-wearing team members. The teams definitely brought a lot of enthusiasm and camaraderie to the race.

I ran slightly behind the two solo female race leaders for the first loop, and then dropped into fourth for the second loop. I didn’t feel terrible, but I didn’t feel all that great either. My legs felt heavy and sluggish. I realized I definitely needed a bathroom break on the third loop. After quickly ducking into a Porta Potty at one of the aid stations, I felt much better. After three loops (and 18 miles), I was finally hitting my stride. I grabbed my iPod at the next aid station, eager for some company in the form of a fast beat, and took off for the fourth loop feeling better than I’d felt all morning.

It was great to see people I knew out on the course—Larry, friends from teams like Madison Multisport and BBMC, Nate and Jessica, and Matt, Lisa and Anna. Although it’s not the most spectator friendly course, even quick cheers from and glimpses of friends gave me energy that helped propel me for an entire loop.

Even though I felt like I was going so much faster during the fourth loop, I realized afterward in looking at my splits that I was just simply maintaining my pace (even slowing down a bit) on tired legs. At the end of the fourth loop, I passed the woman in third place. I just hoped I could hold the position for one more loop.

The first part of the fifth loop felt great (it’s always encouraging to begin the “last” loop of anything). But then I could feel cramps coming on and realized I had definitely made a mistake in not taking electrolyte pills during the race. I thought since the temperatures were so cool, I wouldn’t need any, but I was clearly suffering from a deficiency. It was too late to do much about it other than to back off the pace a bit and hope for the best. It was my biggest mistake of the day, but hopefully I’ll learn from it. And luckily, I was able to keep running through it.

I finished the race in third place (12th overall) with a time of 4:17 (8:16 pace). I was happy with the result, but even more happy to be done running arb loops. It was great to watch my friends Krista and Marty finish—they did awesome. Afterward we all headed to the Great Dane for celebratory burgers and beers—the only way to cap off a great day of running.

And now it’s time to bid farewell to the arb loop and venture onto the trails and hills in preparation for next month’s Ice Age 50.

Tomorrow’s Mad City 50k features a five loop course through the arboretum and around Lake Wingra. Thankfully, I know the course well—it’s a route I run all the time. You can follow the race at http://www.runrace.net/findarace.php?id=12105WI&tab=a5 (apparently they’ll be doing a live webcast that will include 10k splits). Training has been going well the last several weeks, but unfortunately I’ve had a severe bout of insomnia the last few nights. Not feeling the greatest today, but hoping some good rest tonight will put me in a better place tomorrow. Race starts at 9 a.m.!

The morning sky was dark as we pulled into the parking lot for the start of the John Dick Memorial 50k. Krista L., Krista V. and I walked up to the shelter to register and pick up race numbers. The race fees were $10 in advance and $15 day of—a very welcome change from the unreasonable prices at so many races these days.

It was crowded inside the shelter. A small group gathered around the course map, and another around a picnic table, where runners used a screwdriver to insert short metal screws into the bottom of their shoes for added traction on the icy trails. We asked each other if we should get in line for the screwdriver. Having overheard our conversation, a 60-ish year old woman in running gear tapped Krista on the shoulder and advised, honey, you need to go get screwed. And so obediently, we got in line.

About 150 racers lined up at 7:30 a.m. for the start. Apparently it was the biggest field in race history. A number of us knew each other virtually from Dailymile, and a sizable group was there  to celebrate Krista’s 30th birthday in style.

It was a beautiful day for a race—sunny, with temperatures in the 40’s. Early in the day, thick ice covered most of the trail along with patches of packed snow. Later, the trails became muddy and slushy. I was glad I had decided to put screws in the bottom of my shoes, as they proved especially helpful on some of the long, tough, icy climbs.

I ran mostly by myself and tried to keep a comfortable pace. I loved being in the woods on the snow-covered trails. I felt so alive and joyful. Running-wise, I felt good until about mile 18, at which point I definitely began to struggle—likely from a lack of training. The fourth (of five) 10k loops was the toughest. But once I was on the final loop, I felt a surge of energy (probably from the Carousel Animal Crackers and Salted Nut Rolls I came to favor at the aid stations) and knew I could make it.

The course was set up so runners saw each other twice on each loop. The good energy and camaraderie among racers was infectious. I loved seeing Krista and her crew who were obviously having a blast. I also enjoyed seeing the men’s winner. He was unbelievably fast, but more than anything, I appreciated how he smiled and yelled words of encouragement each time we passed. There were some funny moments, too. Like the older man I passed as we were heading in opposite directions, who yelled yeeeeeehaw. And then we’d yell it at each other each time we passed again. Then there was the pack of three older men. As I was passing them, one said—runner back. Then another said, super runner back. And the third chimed in, super model back. Oh, boys.

I finished the race in 5 hours and 33 minutes. I was happy with the effort and especially like how it sets me up for Ice Age Trail 50 training. As Krista and I observed during the drive home, usually 30 miles is the distance we build up to in training for a 50 mile race. Now that we’re already there, we reasoned, we just need to maintain our fitness for Ice Age. Yep, we’ve bypassed the build phase, straight to maintenance.

After the race, I enjoyed a bowl of chili, sweets, and a Blatz with John P. and John C. Then we cheered as Krista and crew rounded the corner to the finish, and all celebrated with cake, party hats, pictures, more beer, and a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday. It was a great day. the ultimate birthday party in the woods. 

A few weeks ago I somehow got convinced to register for a 50k trail run that begins too early tomorrow morning. It’s my good friend Krista’s 30th birthday tomorrow. And she likes to run. Krista had planned all along to run 30 miles on her birthday, so it seemed fortuitous when she discovered the John Dick Memorial 50k, a race scheduled to take place on her birthday. And so she rallied the troops, convincing a group of runner friends to join her in ringing in her thirties.

I’m looking forward to the adventure, but in no way ready to run 30 miles (my longest run was 15, last Sunday, and my entire body ached for two days afterward). I figure we’ll take it easy—run a few loops, stop to re-fuel in the warming hut, run a few more loops, etc. We’ll get it done somehow, I think. The event is described as a “primitive winter trail run.” I’m a little nervous about the rapidly melting snow and the possibility of running 30 miles in deep mud. But regardless of what the day brings, we’ll have fun celebrating Krista and enjoying an epic adventure on the trails of the Kettle Moraine State Forest! There will be stories, for sure.

Although October’s Ironman World Championships already seems like a lifetime ago, I’ll be able to relive the experience from my couch this Saturday (Dec. 10) when the official broadcast airs on NBC from 4:30-6 p.m. EST (beginning at 3:30 pm CST). The NBC broadcast always offers beautiful panoramas of the course, suspenseful back-and-forth coverage of the pros, and heartwarming stories about athletes who have overcome incredible obstacles to make it to the starting line.

Speaking of endurance sports, earlier in the day on Saturday (11 a.m. CST), I’ll be tuning in online for live coverage of the Western States 100 lottery, which I’ve entered for the second year in a row. Chances are slim—they’re accepting 265 runners from a pool of nearly 2,000, but I’m still crossing my fingers for a chance to compete in next June’s event. After pacing my brother at WS100 in 2010, it’s become a goal and dream of mine to compete in the race myself someday.

Saturday sounds like my kind of sports day.

This past Thursday night Krista and I hosted the 2nd Annual Dailymile Madison Holiday Lights Run. You may recall highlights from our inaugural event. Our goal is to get Madison area runners who have connected virtually through Dailymile together in person for occasional runs and social outings. Our plan for this get together included a 5k run through Olin Park’s “Holiday Fantasy in Lights” followed by hot toddies and snacks at my place.

The evening was great fun. Ten people, including a few new faces, came out for the 6pm meet time at the Brittingham Boat House. After introductions and a few quick group photos, we headed out on the bike path along Lake Monona and John Nolen Drive. I’m sure we elicited quite a few stares from ongoing traffic with our train of head lamps. Upon arriving to Olin Park, we secured our position in line among the touring cars and mini vans. We ran through the park, ohhing and ahhing at this year’s new light displays. When we reached the attendant booths at the end of the show, we were greeted with warm smiles and candy canes. The volunteers told us they were so excited to see us and remembered us running through last year.

From there, we jumped on the bike path and headed back to Brittingham Park. Once we finished the 5k run, I invited everyone to join me at my place for hot toddies and snacks. Luckily, the whole crew was able to make it. Since it’s the only holiday event I’m hosting this year, I used the opportunity to really get in the holiday spirit with decorations, music, and new recipes. It was a fun and laid-back evening. We chatted, sipped toddies, laughed, listened to holiday music, snacked, and ate lots of cookies. The 2nd annual Dailymile Madison Holiday Lights Run was a definite success. Stay tuned for our next outing—the 2nd Annual Dailymile Mickey’s Dairy Bar Run, coming in January or February.

Last Saturday I ran a half-marathon—not just any half-marathon, the Tyrannena 1/2 Barrel Beer Run. Which obviously sounds so much cooler than just any old “half-marathon.” Despite the fact I competed in the Ironman World Championships a month ago, I have quickly regressed to a more sedentary lifestyle (aka “off season”). A few 4-5 mile runs (but not too early in the morning) is the most I’ve been able to accomplish the past few weeks. It’s amazing how long it takes to get into great shape, but how easy it is to fall out of shape.

Therefore, I wasn’t expecting much leading into Saturday’s race. I just wanted to have fun, complete the distance, and enjoy the beautiful fall day. I was also looking forward to spending time with my friend Emily, who also ran the half-barrel distance. Thankfully, I  had registered plenty early for the race because it sold out in early October. Last year I was bummed to have missed out when the race filled before I had a chance to register.

The race was fun. I especially enjoy that the race begins and ends at the Tyrannena Brewery, and I also love the race course and how it winds around scenic Lake Mills. Saturday was a warm November day—so warm I was sporting shorts and a t-shirt. The race doesn’t start until 11 a.m., which in a way is nice because there’s more time for the sun to come out and warm up the day.

In terms of the race itself, I probably went out too quickly and faded toward the end. But I gave it a good effort. The course is relatively hilly early on, and those hills really did a number on me. I forgot to bring any gels or other source of calories, so I was feeling tired and hungry toward the end. There were a few aid stations along the way with water and Gatorade, but it just wasn’t enough. My favorite stop along the way was when I came upon a homemade “unofficial beer stop”, with two guys handing out cups of beer from the end of their driveway. I just had to stop and snap a picture. It was so appropriate at the “1/2 barrel beer run.” I was very tempted to grab a cup.

I finished the race in 1:41—a 7:45/mile pace, which I’m happy with. After the race, it was great to hang out with Emily and her family. We enjoyed the post-race lasagna dinner, caught up on eachother’s lives, and enjoyed a celebratory cup of Tyrannena beer. It was a great race and a fun day. That’s it for my 2011 race season. And if it hadn’t begun already, off season starts now.