In spite of never running close to 100 miles before, and in spite of having his longest prior race nearly break his desire to run ultras, Tim ran such a strong and positive UTMB that he came from behind to place third overall. What can we learn from his performance?
Tag Archives | ultrarunning
Catching Up During and After the Western States 100-mile Endurance Run
I put off writing a race report because I felt the kind of turned-inside-out fatigue and brain fog that a new mother feels the week after giving birth.
Flashbacks and Feelings on the Journey to the Western States 100
I’m excited, but fear sneaks up on me. … Something unreal yet way too real happened that partially explains why I savor the purpose, focus, escapism and sense of control that preparing for the Western States 100 offers.
The Book All Serious Ultrarunners Should Read
This post highlights key take-aways from the book—several of which I appreciate because they articulate and support my views on some topics that have generated controversy in our sport.
Running the Ridge in Ojai: A Long Trail Above and Beyond the Familiar
From my perspective as a child growing up in Ojai, the mountains that make up the Nordhoff Ridge always looked so big and far away. I could only reach them on horseback. On my last visit, I decided to step out of my comfort zone of running familiar streets and go up and along the […]
Lake Sonoma 50 Race Report: Better With Age?
I was nervous, not so much about the competition—which was out of my league, attracting the country’s top ultrarunners—but about how I’d do compared to my younger self.
Lake Sonoma 50M Preview: Insomnia-Fueled Thoughts on Life and Ultra Adventures
This can’t be good. I’m supposed to be sleeping well and tapering for a race next weekend that I care about. … But I’ve been through this kind of big transition before, the “what have we done, how are we gonna do this …” state of excitement mixed with anxiety.
Review: The New Ultimate Direction Women’s Ultra Vesta and Adventure Vesta Hydration Systems
When Ultimate Direction came out with a new-and-improved version of the Ultra Vesta—and also launched a women’s version of the larger-capacity SJ Ultra Vest (which I use for longer, unsupported treks)—you bet I was excited to try them.
Off to a Strong Start With the Sean O’Brien 50K
Doing “just” the 50K felt like pedaling behind the big kids with training wheels on my bike. Here’s my Sean O’Brien 50K race report, with bonus content at the end: “The Idiot’s Guide to Race Day Planning.”
The “Some is Better Than None” Run
So much of my stress is tied to perfectionism, to wanting to get it just right or not do it at all. I overthink and underproduce.