Haliku’s random wanderings...

A Stone Cat Race Report

nobody@vox.com(Haliku) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:11:00 -0700

With a race named 'Stone Cat' I thought about a pity play of words for my title. What I got was a blank screen so on to Plan B--the actual race report.

Last week I left Colorado for Maine to meet up with my brother and his friends--all who live in Portland, ME. I landed just at sunset allowing me to get a good look at the city as we flew over it at the water's edge. The setting sun provided a final glow to the trees still wreathed in their fall colors. While I had been concerned that a marathon in November was foolish due to weather impacts I was happy to see fall was still noticeable in this part of New England.

We headed directly out of the airport towards Ispwich, MA, or at least one of the towns adjacent to Ispwich. From my perspective one town looked like the next with their quaint architecture clashing with stripmall generica along the road as we sped by in the night.

Dinner was at a local Italian restaurant, the name of which I failed to note, which was near the Comfort Inn--our abode for the night. The food was good as was the service. Fellow Trail Monsters, a Portland running group, joined us for dinner. Ian was running the 50 M while Emma was crew support.

Once back at the hotel I prepared my clothing and gear for the early morning alarm. The forecast was favorable with lows in the upper 20s and a high of 50. Excellent running weather. Sleep came quickly even with the jet engine sounding heating unit in the room. Ear plugs will now be part of my race kit.

The hotel opened up breakfast at 0430 and fleece and Lycra clad runners descended on it. We quickly drained the coffee urns and came close to overheating the waffle makers as breakfast was consumed in preparation of the race. Pancakes were waiting for me in the room as Tim had cooked up a batch before leaving Portland the day before. The perfect pre-race food for me.

We arrived at the school in the predawn cold and proceeded to squeeze into their small gymnasium. It was tightly packed and difficult to keep out of the way. I enjoyed the people watching and listening to the many strong New England accents. I certainly wasn't in Colorado any more.

The race start was typical of many trail events, it was a 'gun' start. Even though we didn't move for a couple of minutes the pack of both 50 milers and the marathon quickly headed in two directions. The 50s went right down the trail while the rest of us looped around the school to gain the 1.2 miles needed to add to the two 12.5 mile loops of our course. The single track trail from the school field into the woods was a bottleneck that we could of done without. But being a trail race no one was worried to the point where they cut through the frosty bushes to get ahead. There would be plenty of time for passing ahead.

SCMap

The course alternated between single track deer trails and old 4x4 dirt roads. Just when I would get tired of one trail type a fork in the trail would switch me to the other. Tim and I lost sight of Mindy ahead of us within the first hour. We continued running together the first loop. With the slower pace on the trail we were able to talk as we ran which is not typical in races of 1/2 marathon or shorter from my experience.

The first rest stop was Al Cats Lounge. Bacon was frying, pancakes were grilling and the volunteers were very quick to get you resupplied and on your way. There were too many choices. But with Tim's pancake breakfast I topped off my water bottle, had a slice of bacon and hit the trail. I could of stayed much longer. The trail was very well marked except for one spot that I wasn't certain if we went left or right as I saw flagging tape both directions. I recalled the trail map showed one spot where the course almost looped back on itself. We correctly chose to go left. This uncertain spot was eliminated by more signs I noted on my second lap.

The second station, Fast Freddie's Cafe, sneaked up on me. I was focusing on the trail to minimize the toe stubbing quality of the rocks and roots on the path when another well stocked rest stop appeared. A band was playing music while pancakes and other goodies were being offered. The volunteers were just as helpful as at Al Cats.

Shortly after we started to see runners going in the opposite direction for the first time. They were the pack leaders already heading out on their second loop. Mindy passed by, perhaps 10 minutes ahead of me, looking strong and fresh. The third and final supply station was at the start/finish line where Jamie, another Trail Monster, was assisting with practiced ease.

I headed out at a faster pace wanting to test the altitude advantage I had running almost 6000 feet lower than where I train. For a while it was very noticeable until mile 24 when my legs started to really give out. This race was a training run for me. I had only run farther than 20 miles once, the weekend before, so without a taper the Stone Cat was a long run. I hope to regain my running endurance to be able to attempt longer runs this winter and into spring.

The last two miles were slow with a few walking segments. The miles still passed quickly and a final burst of energy enabled me to run strong the final stretch to the finish where a finishers jacket was awarded instead of a medal on a ribbon. I didn't know what time to expect for this race since my rough trail practice was limited this year. I thought between 4 and 5 hours was likely, and it was as my time was in the middle.

The organizers, the volunteers, the food and the trail all made this a very enjoyable race. I have serious thought to attempting the 50 mile race in the future. Thanks also to Mindy and Pete for their Maine hospitality.

Get out and Explore the World!

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Meeting One of My Climbing Heros

nobody@vox.com(Haliku) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 23:15:45 -0600

For any regular reader of my blog it is well known that climbing, especially alpine climbing, is a passion of mine. I recently spent three nights representing the American Alpine Club in the Denver area. The event was a climbing video and presentation that three The North Face athletes were presenting. One of those climbers is Conrad Anker. He is a top alpinist and an all around great guy. I have read his books, followed his climbs and gone to his presentations. I met his partners Jimmy Chin and Renan Ozturk also. Jimmy is an amazing photographer while Renan is an artist--video, photo or drawing. These guys spent some serious climbing karma in the Indian Himalaya on 22,000-foot Mount Meru last year. For any non-climbers consider this analogy--you are sitting around a table BSing with Tiger Woods and the other top golfers. And best of all they are great guys with no elitist attitude.

Here's a short video of them climbing in Eldorado State Park last week. I should of called in sick to work...

Thanks Dad!

Get out and Explore the World!

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Next Objective - A Trail Marathon in Massachusetts!

nobody@vox.com(Haliku) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 20:55:21 -0600

STONE CAT 50 MILE and MARATHON TRAIL RACES
Saturday November 7, 2009 6:15am
Willowdale State Forest, Ipswich, Massachusetts

The race starts and finishes at Doyon School 216 Linebrook Road in Ipswich. The course is all trails, a mix of double track and single track trail, all in Willowdale State Forest on a 12.5 mile loop. The course is very runnable but has a lot of rocks and some sections contain many roots. The terrain is rolling with the largest single hill being a 150 foot climb!

It is a mass start for both events. In order to spread the runners out the marathoners will first run a 1.2 miles loop around the school before joining the loop.

There will be at least three aid stations; at 4.2 miles, 7.5 miles, and start/finish of the loop.

And the best part for me, coming from the mile high city of Denver, is the elevation in Ipswich is around 50 feet!

Bring it!

I was warned that the race closes out early with 150 runners for each distance so I took the advice of a friend who is a trail running machine (thanks Barry) and put up the cash not knowing if I was even going to be in shape for the race. I've had several roadblocks to my running this year and until this week I didn't feel ready even for a marathon distance. So now I am primed and ready to go. This will be a 'training' run for me to get back to ultra distance so no taper will be preceding the race. I'll make sure I'm rested for it but the race isn't the end goal, only a stepping stone to longer distances.

Another benefit is my brother and his friend, Mindy, are also running the marathon so I know we'll at least start together and then celebrate afterwards. I'm also looking forward to meeting fellow trail runners and ultra freaks from the New England clan.

Get out and Explore the World!

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Where in the World...Final

nobody@vox.com(Haliku) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 10:12:44 -0600

SnackTime

I was in Europe for a last minute, unplanned, trip to backpack around with my brother, Tim, who recently ended his six month assignment in Sri Lanka with Doctors without Borders(MSF). He is employed by MSF-Holland so a visit to Europe was required after he left Asia. Also required, after six months in a war zone, was some R&R.

I joined him for a quick po-po platter sampling of three European cities--Amsterdam (first quiz), Cologne, Germany (2nd) and the Grand Duchy of Luxemburg (final).

We toured castles and visited museums while traveling by train, tram, bike and bus. Our time in each destination was short but we still found time to explore each area on foot during our daily morning runs and by local transport.

In reviewing my notes much of our time was spent sampling the local cuisine with the appropriate regional wine or beer selection. Yes we ate very well from the local street vendors offering regional snacks (picture of herring in Amsterdam) to the six course meals that stretched for hours. These meals were often a cultural experience beyond the food and drink as we watched the ebb and flow of the locals going about their day. Being late September the tourists were long gone so the vibe was more relaxed which made for great people watching. One take away, of the many, is the quality of Luxemburg wines. I have never seen Luxemburg wines in the USA which is a shame as they can stand up with the better known wines that are imported from Europe. If you find any in your local wine shop do not hesitate to give them a try.

For an area of the globe I always thought I'd save till my less adventurous (read: older) years I highly encourage you to visit sooner than later if you get the chance.

Get out and Explore the World!

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Where in the World...Part III

nobody@vox.com(Haliku) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 21:29:25 -0600

I'm not certain if lack of response means the picture and hints are too hard or that few are bothering to read and comment lately.

Today found us in yet another city and country. The train system is so useful which makes it easy to get around. This country has excellent wine as well as many castles. Its rulers are noble and very supportive of the arts and the numerous museums. Hiking is also a great way to see the countryside. Where am I?

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Where in the World...Part II

nobody@vox.com(Haliku) — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 13:09:14 -0600

I went by train and am at a different location today. We rented bikes and toured the city. This city is known for its church and its place in Roman history. The locals also like their ice cream it seems. Where am I?

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Where in the World is Haliku?

nobody@vox.com(Haliku) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 13:30:41 -0600

I am on the road again. This time with just a carry on backpack instead of 150 pounds of gear. Access to the internet will be random on this quick trip. Can you guess where I was today?

A few hints perhaps? Bikes are very popular for getting around. When not using a bike trains are common. They have a national passion for flowers, especially one type. Where am I?

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Boulder Marathon in Boulder, CO

nobody@vox.com(Haliku) — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 16:24:22 -0600

BBRM

I did not feel ready for a marathon distance this year so I signed up for the half marathon. The Boulder Marathon is great for the simple fact that it is a trail run on dirt and gravel that is also a Boston qualifier.

Since I hope to run another race this year I used the half as a training run. I targeted a 2 hour time which I hit. After the injuries I had earlier this year it was great to actually sign up for a race!

The weather was hot and sunny with a stiff wind at times. Naturally the wind was a headwind. With over 3000 runners, sharing at least part of the course, the Boulder Res was a zoo.

The race is well planned and provided with food and drink. Plenty of vendor/sponsor tents were also there along with a local band cranking out some tunes. The massage tent, giving free 15 minute massages, was a very popular post race destination. The sign up sheet filled up fast with runners being told they had an hour wait ahead of them. It was a great day in Colorado! Consider running this race if you want a marathon experience that stands out from the normal race formula.

Get out and Explore the World!

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Small Town Marathon Needs Runners: Johnstown, PA

nobody@vox.com(Haliku) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 21:18:10 -0600

The YMCA Johnstown Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k, 5k, Relays needs you! After coming close to folding this year after 30+ seasons Marathonguide.com helped to save the race this year. Now more runners are needed.

www.inclinedplane.com

This is a Boston qualifying course that is supposedly 'fast'. (I have not run it...yet)

Need more information about the race? Or Johnstown, PA?

Race is 4 October so don't delay.

Get out and Explore the World!

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Black Diamond Presents: Climbing in the Ruth Gorge

nobody@vox.com(Haliku) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 21:50:03 -0600

A Trip to the Ruth Gorge in Alaska

This is an excellent video of Renan Ozturk and Zach Smith's recent trip in Alaska in the Ruth Gorge, where they did a 12-hour ascent of the classic Cobra Pillar on Mt. Barrill and made a serious attempt on the "Tooth Traverse," a link-up from the Sugar Tooth to the Moose's Tooth.

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