...Until the "Dances with Dirt @ Devils Lake 50 miler", that is. Devils Lake is in Baraboo WI, just north of Madison (www.dwddevilslake.com) . The race starts at 5:30 a.m. Saturday.
This will be my biggest test since my 45 mile run on my 45th birthday, and while I believe I am ready, a review of last years finish times tells me the course is more difficult than I may have thought. Sure, it's only 5 miles further, but the terrain, well, that's a whole different level. I have hiked this area before, but am not familiar with the specific course. So my target (a very loosely defined goal) is 10 hours, but we'll have to wait and see...
As this is a "training race", I am giving myself only a 4 day taper. That will be enough to feel reasonably fresh going into the race, without sacrificing too much training time. The mileage increase in my training has left both my Achilles a bit tender, but I do not believe it is anything to worry about. A great big shout out to my massage therapist Julie who is so awesome at smoothing out the kinks and stretching out the tight spots!
As always, my #1 fan will be my crew. Pam is amazing, and amazingly committed. I tried to convince her I'd be fine ("It's only 50 miles...") and that she should drive to Madison for the farmers market (which is amazing if you've never seen it). But she insists - "that's not what I do..." she says, as she studies the Ultra Handler Auto Route. No arguing the point. I'll just hope to finish fresh enough to be able to show her the sights myself!
Why do we (i.e. runners) do this, huh? Myriad reasons why I run. Sometimes because it offers a wonderful escape from the craziness of life. Lately, I admit, that has been a significant motivating factor. However, as Saturday grows closer, I find myself as excited for the chance for Pam and I to get away for a few days, even if half of it will be spent driving. We'll have some quality time together in a town we both love (Madison, that is), and even get to visit some friends. If not for running, I'd probably fill my weekend with chores...
My 100 Mile Ultra countdown (at www.crowdrise.com/runningforra) says 67 days. Friends like Lorrie are another reason why I run. Looking forward to sharing more in the days to come, so stay tuned! (www.facebook.com/runningforra).
1 comment:
If there's anybody I KNOW can do this, it's you Chuck. I'll be out there rooting for you and your cause, and also looking to you for motivation to complete my 50k. Oh, and remember, it's just another long day in the woods!
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