Trail Runner #38, March 2006

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MARCH 2006 ISSUE 38

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CONTENTS MARCH 2006 | WWW.TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | ISSUE 38

ONE DIRTY MAGAZINE

PEAK EXPERIENCE 32)

PIKES

Dubbed America’s Ultimate Challenge, the Pikes Peak Marathon celebrated 50 years last summer, PEAK and the author was there to see if the race lived up to its rep.

MARATHON

BY JUSTIN TADE PHOTOS BY DAVID CLIFFORD

5)

EDITOR’S NOTE

6)

LETTERS

8)

MAKING TRACKS

Top five Trail Issues; Canada’s Toad; Saluting JFK.

12) TRAIL RX

Be Prepared. Heed the old Boy Scout motto while on the trail.

BY EMMA WILLIAMS

14) ASK THE COACH

Bumping up to a 50-miler; quad strengthening for burly downhills; fastpacking primer.

BY THERESE IKNOIAN

15) TRAIL TIPS

Pressure Cooker. Just what is pressure breathing, and does it work?

BY RENNE GARDNER

16) TRAINING

Crossed Up. We trail runners can learn from our crosscountry cousins.

BY CAROLINE CRETTI

20) TAKE YOUR MARK

Move over Rockies. Florida’s Croom Trail 50-Mile Fools Run dishes up pine flatwoods, freshwater marshes and cypress swamps.

BY KIP KOELSCH

22) GALLERY 41) TROPHY SERIES RACE CALENDAR

With over 110 of North America’s best races, the 2006 series promises to be the most exciting yet.

44) TRAIL TESTED

Great Gear Bonanza. This year’s head-to-toe guide to trail-running tackle.

55) LAST GASP

Our man in the field goes against the planet’s best, and ponders their secrets.

BY BERNIE BOETTCHER

CALL OF 24) THE WILD We all have our definition of the ultimate trail-running road trip.

But a few things are certain—you have to have wild trails, dazzling views, and some chums to tag along.

PHOTO ESSAY BY BRIAN BAILEY

COVER: Road Trip! Becky Anderson and Devin Gardiner striding out in high-country-singletrack heaven, and (this page) chillin’ amid alpine wildflowers. PHOTOS BY BRIAN BAILEY

THE RUSH DOESN’T END AT THE WATER’S EDGE. SIMON GUTIERREZ, TEVA U.S. MOUNTAIN RUNNING TEAM.

THE ORIGINAL SPORT SANDAL. THE FUTURE OF OUTDOOR FOOTWEAR. PICTURE: DAWN KISH TYPE: OKSANA BADRAK ©TEVA 2006 WWW.TEVA.COM

EDITO R’S NOTE

by GARETT GRAUBINS

LIGHTWEIGHT STABILITY FOR THE HEAVIEST OF TRAILS. > A 9.8 OUNCE TRAIL SHOE AS LIGHT AS A RACING FLAT.

> MONOFILAMENT MESH FOR 360˚ DRAINABILITY AND FLOW-THROUGH.

> WRAPTOR LITE™ SUPPORT SECURES THE FOOT TO THE FOOTBED AND PREVENTS SLIDING. Your first line of defense from the gear hype.

Bursting the Bubble

DAVID CLIFFORD

NEWS FLASH: THERE’S METHOD TO THE GEAR-GUIDE MADNESS We gear editors sit on our bouncy exercise balls, insulated from the outside world, while public-relations folks shower us with all-CAPS emails, enthusiastic phone calls and clever direct-mail pieces (like the time I received a quick-wicking sock frozen in a block of jarred ice). Touting the latest, most innovative trail-running equipment, they all say “Your readers must have this!”

But at Trail Runner, we don’t just sit idle at our computer keyboards, regurgitating promotional gobbledygook and pontificating on the virtues of the latest gear. After all, somebody has to take all this schwag into the field and test it. It sure beats the bouncy ball.

Thrashing this gear on the local dirt tracks, we often marvel at the great equipment and technology out there. Take the latest headlamp offerings. Super-high-output LEDs cast a daylight-like glow with minimal weight on your noggin. Or check out the newest crop of watches that track barometric pressure, altitude and heart rate. Or three-ounce, breathable running shells that pack to the size of a coffee cup.

A lot of this gear can help you take your

running to a new, more comfortable level.

Gear selection is a major decision, and it can be an all-consuming, time-devouring endeavor. Who has time to work 40-plus hours per week, raise a family, train, go to school and fulfill other obligations, all while evaluating the mountains of gear options out there? A quick show of hands?

Yep, I thought so.

In this, Trail Runner’s annual Gear Issue, we’ve covered a far-reaching gamut of gear that will meet your needs. We took all of our PR contacts up on their offers to send us their raddest gear for 2006, loaded it into a couple of pick-up trucks (and my Subaru) and headed to the Utah desert to suss it all. Out of the truckloads of gear, we had to be selective and narrow it down to some of our top picks. You’ll find them, starting on page 44.

Use these recommendations as your first line of defense from all of the hype. If the gear is here, it’s the equivalent of our stamp of approval and you should consider retiring that old, nearly transparent pair of road-running shorts, twist-off-cap water bottle and tattered cotton cap.

■

SHOC PAD™ CUSHION EVERY STRIDE.

> HEEL-TO-TOE PROTECTION WEB™ TECHNOLOGY PROTECT FEET FROM STONE BRUISING.

> SPIDER XC® OUTSOLE FOR DURABLE GRIP AND SURE-FOOTED TRACTION.

GO. DO. BE.

Available at REI, EMS and Teva.com.

©TEVA 2006

2006 MARCH | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 5

> SINGLE-DENSITY EVA MIDSOLE AND ENCAPSULATED

LETTERS THIS BLOWS

I just read the Trail Tips on the “Farmer Blow” [No. 35]. And the column ... blows. There is only one term for that particular maneuver—“snot rocket.” Whoever made up the name used in the article has slandered farmers.

As to making sure the area around you is clear when rocketing your snot, well, the technique happens to be a time-honored anti-passing tactic in any race.

—Dave Delano, New York City, NY RESCUE MISSION I just read “Angels Among Us” [Making Tracks, No. 37] and would like to share this story. Over the summer I had been training to run my first marathon in over decade, the inaugural Two-Bear Marathon in Whitefish, Montana, in September.

Hurricane Katrina hit several weeks before the marathon date, and I volunteered to go to Louisiana with the Red Cross as a mental-health worker. I deployed to New Orleans instead of running the race. I don’t regret my decision, and joked that my real marathon was in fact the two weeks I spent in Louisiana. The folks at the Two-Bear race were fantastic and so supportive of my decision that they actually gave me an honorary finisher’s medal.

There was something odd about training for a big race then simply not running it. I decided to run New Orleans Track Club’s Mardi Gras Marathon in February and gather hurricane-relief donations. It’s a rush, training back up after all the ground I’d lost, especially during a Montana winter, but I’m counting on my high-altitude hill training to get me through the race. I’ve set up a website to gather donations (www. justgiving.com/pfp/thelongroadhome).

bug and was running the races.

A simple 5K trail series is such a basic way for communities to fight obesity—and as you know there’s nothing that promotes family ties more than going toe to toe on the starting line with your kids!

—Nick Yardley, Williston, VT

COWBOY UP I have been a subscriber to Trail Runner for a couple of years and love it. As an average-distance trail runner, I appreciate that your magazine is full of pertinent information, ranging from races to equipment and nutrition. As an RV enthusiast as well, I plan my summer vacations around places where I can get in a few trail runs and have an opportunity to see the sights with my non-running travel friends.

I would love to see more articles about trails throughout the U.S. By the way, there are many trails where I live just east of Austin, Texas. When magazines mention Austin, the Greenbelt is typically the major hot spot that is reviewed.

With incredible state parks and McKinney Roughs outside of nearby Bastrop, Texas, a lot of good trails are missed because people don’t know about them.

—Andrew Peterson, Missoula, MT

—Ana Murray, Austin, TX

SHORT IS SWEET

OLD AND NOT IN THE WAY

I just read your Editor’s Note [No. 37] on the value of 5Ks. Here in Vermont, we have a local 5K trail series that runs from May through August. Every Tuesday night, up to 250 runners line up for a lung-busting yet low-key sprint through the woods.

You’ll see all shapes, ages, sizes, fast times and slow times. Last summer was very special, as my 13-year-old son ran the series with me and by the end of the summer even my 11-year-old daughter caught the

Thank you so much for a super magazine. Although I live across the Pond, reading some of the articles in Trail Runner is akin to running the trail inside my mind.

I have been running on your side of the Atlantic for many years now, and enjoy every moment. At 78, I don’t have many years left to run the long races.

In 2006, I hope to run the Bridger Ridge Run 20, Palo Duro 50K and a 50-miler (I can’t remember the name right now).

6 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | MARCH 2006

Although the legs are screwed, the spirit is still beating hard and fast.

May the New Year bring us all inner peace as we run the trails.

—Lou Myers (aka The Ancient Brit), London, England

EXPOSED The numbers intrigue me in “The Pros Exposed” [No. 36, Nutrition]. Here we have a small number of trail runners, but since they are the leaders their averages mean more. According to my calculations based on your article, the average elite trail runner is 38 years old, 5' 8", 130 pounds, 22 total running years, 12 years trail running, 3800 total miles per year and puts in 103 miles per week in preparing for competition. Food and drink during training and competition is as you would expect. The continual feeding on carbs during competition is an eye opener.

You cannot change certain things like age, height and running history. Others like weight, annual miles and food and drink are open for improvement.

Matt Carpenter has the right idea, focusing on hours running instead of miles. He puts in 1.5 hours per day, about 10.5 hours per week. However, I suspect he puts in quality time on challenging trails during those hours.

I ran Colorado’s Imogene Pass Run (17.1 miles, 13,120 feet maximum elevation, 5600 feet of climbing) in 1989 when

letters « Carpenter took first place. Four years later in 1993, he set the course record of 2:05:56.

—Dick Shire, Indianapolis, IN

Got Trails? We Do . . . Great

RECOVERY ROAD I saw your solicitation for trail runners who have come back from injury. I have spent two years dealing with chronic injuries. My first major injury occurred in 2003 at the end of a long season. I tried to squeeze a couple extra months of cycle-cross bike racing and running races, and strained my hamstring in a bike race. The tightness and pain lasted for a year and a half.

While rehabbing the hamstring injury by running backwards on the treadmill last spring, I severely strained my calf. Six months later, acupuncture finally released the chronic muscle tension and I’m back to running. I am looking forward to running trail races this spring.

—Eric Johnson, Springfield, MO

RACES

#1 Charlottesville Running Company 5K, January 14th, 2006 - Observatory Hill Trails, Charlottesville, VA #2 Charlottesville Running Company 10K, February 4th, 2006 - Foxhaven Trails, Charlottesville, VA #3 Bel Monte Endurance Run 50K, March 25th, 2006 - Sherando Lake Recreation Area, VA #4 Charlottesville Running Company 25K, March 25th, 2006 - Sherando Lake Recreation Area, VA #5 Highlands Sky 40 Mile Trail Run, June 17, 2006 - Monogahela National Forest, Davis, WV #6 Vermont 100 Mile Endurance Run, July 15-16, 2006 - Green Mountains, Woodstock, VT #7 & #8 Great Eastern

Eastern Trail Run Series Fourth Annual Presented by:

Endurance Runs 100K/50K,

EDITORIAL

CIRCULATION

PUBLISHER Duane Raleigh

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

draleigh@bigstonepub.com EDITOR Michael Benge mbenge@bigstonepub.com SENIOR EDITOR Garett Graubins ggraubins@bigstonepub.com COLUMNS EDITOR Alison Osius aosius@bigstonepub.com PHOTO EDITOR David Clifford dclifford@bigstonepub.com CREATIVE ART DIRECTOR Bret Roedemeier broedemeier@bigstonepub.com PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Rowan Fryer rfryer@bigstonepub.com PRODUCTION MANAGER

Quent Williams qwilliams@bigstonepub.com ADVERTISING SALES ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Lisa Raleigh lraleigh@bigstonepub.com

Paula Stepp pstepp@bigstonepub.com SUBSCRIPTIONS MANAGER

Lindsay Brown lbrown@bigstonepub.com RETAIL SALES COORDINATOR

Craig Saleeby csaleeby@bigstonepub.com OFFICE MANAGER/ CIRCULATION ASSISTANT

September 23, 2006 - George Washington Nat. Forest, Charlottesville, VA #9 & #10 Brush Mountain

Breakdown 6 Mile and 16 Mile, October 14, 2006 - Jefferson National Forest, Blacksburg, VA #11 & #12 Charlottesville

Running Company Half Marathon & 10 Mile Trail Races, November 18, 2006 - Half Marathon; Walnut Creek Park, Charlottesville, VA

Race Registration Information

www.badtothebone.biz badtothebone@adelphia.net Phone: 434-293-7115 Contact: Gill, Race Director

Danyelle Rigli circassistant@bigstonepub.com ACCOUNTING Mark Kittay CPA accounting@bigstonepub.com BIG STONE PUBLISHING 1101 Village Road UL-4D, Carbondale, CO 81623 Office: 970-704-1442 Fax: 970-963-4965 www.trailrunnermag.com

ADVERTISING MANAGER

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WARNING! The activities described in Trail Runner carry a significant risk of personal injury or death. DO NOT participate in these activities unless you are an expert, have sought or obtained qualified professional instruction or guidance, are knowledgeable about the risks involved, and are willing to assume personal responsibility for all risks associated with these activities. TRAIL RUNNER MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, OF ANY KIND REGARDING THE CONTENTS OF THIS MAGAZINE, AND EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY WARRANTY REGARDING THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN. Trail Runner further disclaims any responsibility for injuries or death incurred by any person engaging in these activities. Use the information contained in this magazine at your own risk, and do not depend on the information contained in this magazine for personal safety or for determining whether to attempt any climb, route or activity described herein.

The views herein are those of the writers and advertisers; they do not necessarily reflect the views of Trail Runner’s ownership.

•Manuscripts, photographs and correspondence are welcome. Unsolicited materials should be accompanied by return postage. Trail Runner is not responsible for unsolicited materials. All manuscripts and photos are subject to Trail Runner’s terms, conditions and rates •Please allow up to 6 weeks for the first issue after subscribing or a change of address (to expect continuous service).

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. © Copyright 2006 by Big Stone Publishing Ltd. 2006 MARCH | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 7

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MAKING TRACKS ALL THE TRAIL NEWS YOU CAN USE // COMPILED BY GARETT GRAUBINS

Beth Darnel enjoys some openspace time on Boulder, Colorado’s Panorama Point Trail with Mount Sanitas in the the background.

FIVE TRAIL ISSUES TO WATCH IN 2006 BOULDER, COLORADO, HAS ALWAYS been on the cutting edge of preserving public land. In 1967, voters approved a 0.4-percent sales tax to buy and manage open space—the first time citizens of any U.S. city agreed to tax themselves specifically for this purpose. The City Charter was revised to establish a department of Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP), to acquire and manage open space around the town.

In 1989, voters passed an increase of the sales tax to 0.7 percent for 15 years to accelerate open-space preservation. In 2005, a whopping 21 percent of the city budget will go to open space, parks and recreation.

For trail users, the success of Boulder’s approach is undeniable. Over 43,000 acres have been preserved, thereby limiting sprawl and maintain8 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | MARCH 2006

ing part of the city’s rural heritage. To the west, the mountains are covered with trees, wildlife and trails, rather than trophy homes. Cows still graze in eastward pastures.

But Boulder’s open space is being loved to death. A city survey indicates that visits to open space have doubled in the last decade, and could reach six million annual visits. Acquisitions

have doubled the area of open space land, but only seven miles of new trails have been added to the 130-mile network. In 2005, in response to the pressures of preservation and recreation—and after many heavily attended public forums, planning meetings and study sessions—the City Council passed a massive Visitor Master Plan (VMP). “This document will guide us into the next generation,” said Mike Patton, OSMP Director.

VMP is not widely viewed as a panacea. Troubling to many trail runners, one provision prohibits off-road travel on 38 percent of OSMP land that is designated as Habitat Conservation Areas. Since there are few designated trails in these areas, many view this as a de-facto closure of a large fraction of the city parks.

Also, many trail runners had hoped that the VMP would lift an unwritten

PHIL MISLINSKI (ABOVE), PEGGY SARSON (RIGHT)

Trails in Peril

making tracks «

Four More Sore Spots In 2001, President 1) ROADLESS RULES Clinton OK’d “Roadless Rules” legislation that made 60 million acres of national forest off limits to road building and logging. Litigation has dogged the policy since, with some arguing that it did not consider local needs, and officials adopted language that left the rule intact but allowed exceptions. Results have varied by state, but in Idaho, a phosphate mining company obtained permission to extend operations into previously roadless areas of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest—despite the fact that phosphate mining has been linked to selenium contamination. “These are some of the most wild and scenic places in Idaho,” says Marv Hoyt, Idaho Director with the Greater Yellowstone Coalition. “We must ensure that future operations are done in a responsible manner.”

INFO: www.ThePhosphateRisk.com and www.roadless.fs.fed.us In Washington, floods and several seasons of wildfires have devastated popular trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail’s Suiattle River/Milk Creek Loop, where 23 bridges were lost. Forest and Park Service budgets were already strapped (they have declined steadily over the past decade), so the strained combination of volunteer labor, fees and grants is running dry. “Volunteers are working hard, but we can’t fix much of this recent damage,” said Washington Trails Association Assistant Crew Leader Pete Dewell, “It is simply beyond the scope of what volunteers can do.”

INFO: www.wta.org 2) NATURE’S WRATH

Many people long for a cozy home on acreage. And that’s part of the problem, along with the infrastructure demands of development. The 35-mile Brandywine Trail, which runs from southeastern Pennsylvania to Northern Delaware, endures under the shadow of urban growth around Wilmington and Philadelphia. Meanwhile, the 11-mile Capital Crescent Trail, an asphalt and occasional stone-dust trail in the Washington, D.C., area, may need to co-exist with a new Metro Line that would share the narrow, 66foot easement with recreation seekers.

INFO: www.geocities.com/brandywinertrail and www.cctrail.org 3) HOMES ON THE RANGE

Under pressure from recreational groups seeking more trail access, governing councils have broadened trail-usage rules to appease mountain bikers, equestrians, trail runners and hikers—sometimes all on the same trail, with nightmarish results. In California’s Santa Monica Mountains, several new policies are under consideration, and a recent accident resulted in a mountain biker being thrown and a horse rolling down a steep embankment along the Tapia Spur Trail.

INFO: SAMO_Trails@nps.gov

4) MULTI-USE MYTHS

BY THE

51

NUMBERS

Age difference, in years, between the youngest and oldest finisher of the inaugural Mountain Masters 16-Mile Trail Run in Harlan, Kentucky—Brian Jones, 19, of Harlan, and Jim Woodring, a 70-yearold minister from Pineville, Kentucky, respectively.

4300

Approximate miles traveled by Julie Udchachon of Eagle River, Alaska, to November’s JFK 50-Miler in Boonesboro, Maryland. Udchachon’s trip took 11 hours and spanned three time zones.

ban on competitive events. In the history of the OSMP program, only one trail race had ever been approved—the 2003, 60-runner Cardiac Arete, a 1.3mile climb up the 1300-foot Mount Sanitas Trail. The race took place under close city supervision, required participants to perform trail work, and raised over $800 for OSMP. By most counts, the race was a win-win arrangement between OSMP and trail users.

Yet City Council members expressed concern that races are not compatible with the passive recreation they aim to encourage, and that administration of competitions is not the best use of limited staff time and resources. The VMP therefore forbade all competitive events on OSMP Land.

There are also many who feel the Council didn’t go far enough toward preserving open space (e.g. a few areas that were defined as Habitat Conservation Areas in early drafts were placed in a less restrictive category in the final version). “The Council members may not have appreciated the biological value of the chips they were trading,” says Bruce Bland, a member of the citizen board of trustees that oversees OSMP. Despite deep divisions in the community, many feel the VMP represents a groundbreaking compromise between preservation and recreation, and other communities will look to it as a model as they address open-space issues. “If you look at the most restrictive scenario when it comes to uses,” says former Mayor Will Toor, “Boulder will still be one of the premier places in the world for outdoor recreation.”

—Peter Bakwin

1800

Meters, or over one mile, that a genetically engineered “Marathon Mouse” can run before exhaustion, according to researchers at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (www.hhmi.org). Normal mice can only run 900 meters before they bonk.

82,000,000 U.S. dollars paid by outdoor behemoth Timberland to purchase sock company and trail-running favorite Smartwool in late 2005.

RACE DAY

Toad 25K runner Laura Forbes leapfrogged with a few other runners before settling near the middle of the pack.

TOAD-ALLY FAST OCTOBER 1, 2005, RUN FOR THE TOAD, PARIS, ONTARIO, CANADA—A record field of 550 runners swarmed like tadpoles around the Pinehurst Lake Conservation Area for the Run for the Toad’s five-, 10-, 25- and 50-kilometer races. The upper Midwest’s normally fickle autumn weather showed mercy, and runners enjoyed sunny 75-degree temperatures and dry conditions as they cruised through rolling forests and meadow. Heralded by Race Directors George and Peggy Sarson as having the “best field ever assembled in Canada,” the 25K race featured new course records by winners Zeljko Sabol (1:32:00) and former Villanova University track star Krestena Sullivan (1:52:20).

Complete results at www.runforthetoad.com

2006 MARCH | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 9

» making tracks

OVER-

HEARD “Did I get the record?”

DAVE MACKEY’S first words after winning the 2005 Golden Gate Headlands National 50K Trail Championship on August 27, 2005. He broke the existing mark by 25 seconds.

“It ain’t magic and there isn’t anything special about me physically other than just being a little hard headed.”

MIKE RIGGS, 45, an Austin, Texas, member of the Hill Country Trail Runners. Riggs takes part in the club’s mentor program, which aims to help newcomers to the sport.

Chasing History LUNDBLAD, NIPPERT TAKE AIM AT THE NATION’S OLDEST ULTRA NOVEMBER 19, 2005, 43RD JFK 50 MILER, BOONESBORO, MARYLAND—In 1963, our 35th president, John F. Kennedy, challenged Americans to get fit enough to hike 50 miles. When he issued that challenge, he probably didn’t foresee his countrymen running 50 miles in a race named after him–or, for that matter, doing it in shorts, singlets and low-top shoes.

President Kennedy also said, “Success hinges on a passion for excellence,” and two runners at the 2005 JFK proved themselves the breathing embodiment of those words: Howard Nippert and Anne Lundblad.

Nippert, a 40-year-old runner from Fort Union, Virgina, who finished eighth at the 2005 100K World Championships, came here because he “wanted the course record at America’s greatest ultra.” He formulated target splits based upon the course record and varying terrain (a blend of pavement, wide, gravel routes called “tow paths” and technical trail, adding to about 37 off-road miles). “I had a plan before the race to let the trail portion shake out as it may and 10 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM

then run hard on the tow path and road,” said Nippert, who admits that he lost ground on the long, downhill trail portion. At that point, he estimates he was running fifth or sixth.

After leaving the initial trails (mile 16), Nippert quickly picked up ground on the more run-able tow paths. “It took about two miles to reach the lead pack,” he says, “and then it was just a matter of running relaxed and calculating and re-calculating splits.” Nippert’s stress-free strategy paid off and he soon pulled away. He finished in 5:51:28, the second-fastest time in JFK history and five minutes off the course record, set in 1994 by Eric Clifton of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

“I felt that I ran as hard and as fast as I am capable,” said Nippert. “I don’t have the record in me.”

Asheville, North Carolinian Anne Lundblad, 39, also ran with an eye on the course record.

“Earlier in the fall, I had made bold predictions to my friends that I would challenge the course record,” she says.

“I knew I was in good shape, but had run the Mountain Masochist 50 in October, and I was a little nervous running

“The dirty girl gives it away.”

CHRISSY WEISS, President of www.dirtygirlgaiters.com, who sells trail gaiters to cover her hard costs but donates the rest to directors of races that encourage women’s empowerment, search and rescue and trail work.

two big ultras so close together.”

With her personal mantra, “strong and tough and no sign of weakness,” in mind, Lundblad who was recently named the 2005 U.S.A. Track & Field female Ultrarunner of the Year, ran shortly behind and stride for stride with Julie Udchachon, the 2005 U.S. 50K Trail National Champion from Eagle River, Alaska, through the trail and 15 miles of the tow path sections. Says Lundblad, “At Mile 31, I started feeling strong and noticed her slowing a bit, so I made my move.” Lundblad pulled away and won with a time of 6:29:42, breaking the 21-year-old JFK women’s record by a whopping 21 minutes. Udchachon held on for second.

“It was an awesome way to finish up what has probably been my best year of racing,” says Lundblad, “Icing on the cake, so to speak.”

951 runners completed the 2005 JFK. For complete results, visit www. jfk50mile.org.

GEOFFREY S. BAKER (BOTH)

JFK Runners stretch out along the C&O Canal tow path.

Below: Howard Nippert sports smiles after his impressive JFK win.

“This way, Stupid.”

AN OVERSIZED DIRECTIONAL SIGN at the 1998 Shadow of the Giants 50K, held amongst 3000-year-old sequoia trees in California’s Sierra National Forest. Many runners missed a crucial turn the previous year, and the Race Director, Baz Hawley, decided to leave nothing to chance.

TRAIL Rx

by EMMA WILLIAMS

» photo by DAVID CLIFFORD A DOSE OF PREPARATION OK, maybe it’s not realistic to expect all trail runners to tote along a first-aid kit. And, granted, a first-aid kit might not handle every eventuality. But when a trail emergency arises, you should know what to do.

“Prevention is absolutely the best approach to trail safety,” says Dr. Dennis Kerrigan, a long-time lead instructor for Wilderness Medical Associates, a Mainebased institute that provides medical training to outdoor professionals and rescue specialists. “People think that simply bringing a cell phone or first-aid kit means they’re good to go, but no piece of equipment can replace good judgment or assessment and evaluation skills.”

Kerrigan cites dehydration, sprains, fractures and falls as the most common trail injuries—the majority of which, he emphasizes, could be avoided with a little extra preparation and the willingness to carry an extra water bottle or a small aid pack.

Here are a few rules of thumb to help even the most diehard minimalist handle and prevent difficulties on the trail: Leaner and lighter isn’t always better. There’s no need to load up like

Trail runners should heed the old Boy Scout motto—be prepared.

Wilderness 911 VITAL FIRST AID WHEN YOU’RE HURT IN THE DIRT Autumn in north Georgia is pristine.

The cool, occasionally chilly air, vibrant colors bursting from all directions and the rhythmic crunch of leaves under foot make it an idyllic setting for a long trail run. On just such a day, Linda Sledge and her husband settled into a peaceful escape from the rest of the world.

SNAP! One flying stride over a fallen tree trunk quickly brought Linda back to reality. Her ankle had given way, and a surge of pain overcame her as she rolled to the ground. Still a few miles from the end of their 23-mile outing, the pair had nothing 12 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | MARCH 2006

but a couple of water bottles. And Linda could hardly stand, let alone walk.

Fortunately, thanks to common sense, quick action and Linda’s notably high pain threshold, this story ends happily. After assessing the situation, Linda immersed her ankle in a nearby stream to reduce the swelling, then used sticks and branches as a makeshift crutch enabling her to hobble to safety.

One spiral fracture and a year’s worth of rehabilitation later, Linda is once again running the trails—now carrying a small first-aid kit.

a Sherpa, but tossing a mini first-aid kit into your pack will provide the tools necessary for cleaning and protecting basic wounds or wrapping a simple sprain. For longer distances, Kerrigan recommends bringing a soft splint to stabilize a potential fracture. You can purchase a simple aid kit online at adventuremedicalkits.com. Also, SAM Medical products sells lightweight, easy-to-carry splints and slings (www. sammedical.com).

Duct tape also comes highly recommended. “If you take only one other item besides a water bottle, make it a length of duct tape,” says orthopedic surgeon and wilderness medicine practitioner Dr. Bruce Davidson. “Wrap some around your water bottle or a broken off pencil that you can put in your pocket. It weighs very little, and you can use it to stop a blister, cover

trail rx « a wound, tape an ankle or wrist, make a sling or even couple it with sticks to create a temporary splint.”

You can’t dress a wound with a cell phone. Cell phones are fine for the

urban jungle, but not a reliable lifeline in the middle of nowhere. Carry one with you, by all means, but even if you’re in range know how to provide on-the-spot help until medical assistance arrives.

Calmness prevails. Regardless of a situation’s magnitude, stay as calm as possible. Focus on using common sense and making practical decisions that do not increase or exacerbate existing injury or risk.

Use the buddy system. While nothing equals the solitude and peace of a long solo outing, the further afield you go, the more important it becomes to go with a partner. If you must go it alone, be sure to leave a note outlining the specifics of your outing, including departure time, when you plan to return and intended route (make sure you stick to that plan as closely as possible). ■

WHAT IF

A Down-and-Dirty Guide to Basic Trail Aid Wilderness first aid is all about calmness, improvisation and creativity, according to Kerrigan and Davidson. So don’t be afraid to use what you have—whether that means sacrificing a T-shirt to create a bandage or using a hydration pack to construct a sling. Here’s how to handle a few of the most common injuries: Ankle sprain. Wrap the joint in a figure eight across the bottom of your shoe and around your ankle. Leave your shoe on to help prevent swelling.

Ankle fracture. Push a stick inside your shoe on each side of your ankle to create a splint, and wrap the joint in a figure eight (see ankle sprain above).

Sprained or broken wrist/arm. If necessary, create a splint using sticks and a bandage or duct tape (thereby immobilizing the injury). Then use a T-shirt to create a makeshift sling.

Open wound. Apply light pressure to the wound to stop the bleeding.

Then cover it with a basic dressing (a piece of t-shirt and duct tape will do the job). It’s fine to apply a very light tourniquet (a compression bandage applied to the arm or leg to slow blood flow to the affected area) between the heart and the wound if the bleeding doesn’t stop, says Davidson, but do so carefully, keeping the injured extremity at heart level or lower as you slowly walk out for help.

(Possible) concussion. “Look for bleeding and obvious skull fractures, and talk to the injured person as if they are awake, but do not shake them,” advises Davidson. If the victim is unconscious and does not come around within a few minutes, find immediate help.

Fall. “If someone has slipped or fallen down an embankment or slope, make sure that you can reach the victim safely—and without dislodging debris,” Davidson recommends. “Next, assess whether or not it’s safe to move the person—or him or her to move on their own. If the neck is crooked, don’t straighten it unless they’re unable to breathe and talk. As soon as the person is able, help him or her to slowly stand up.”

A S K THE CO A C H

by THERESE IKNOIAN

» Illustration by JEREMY COLLINS

MAKE THE GRADE I bonk on the downhills in trail races, but notice the elite blasting the descents with no problems. Any suggestions for strengthening my quads for steep downhill grades?

—JEANNIE LAPIERRE, NORTH GRANBY, CT

BECOME A DOWNHILL DOMINATOR

ESCAPE WITH FASTPACKING BUMP UP TO YOUR FIRST 50-MILER GO DEEP I’d like to mix trail running with my other passion: overnight fastpacking. How do I do it?

—JEREMIAH HABECKER, SAN BERNARDINO, CA

The key is to go ultra light.

Andrew Skurka, who was the first person to complete the Sea-to-Sea route from the Atlantic to the Pacific in 2005, suggests a base pack weight of a mere 10 pounds, which would include a super-light sleeping bag, tarp, stove, a couple of days of food and a few other necessities like toilet paper, a headlamp and water-purification tablets. Figure on about two pounds of food per day, says Skurka, which means if you’re out two days, the rest of the gear, including pack, can’t weigh more than six pounds. Water and clothing add more weight, and factor in water 14 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | MARCH 2006

sources and weather.

To maintain your energy, carry snacks where you can quickly access them, suggests Bryce Thatcher, chief Nathan Performance designer, and don’t neglect the joy of a warm drink or soup in the evening. “I feel you sleep better after taking in hot fluids, and it helps you make the transition to the cold night.”

Fastpacking is a serious endeavor, because you can find yourself deep in the woods at the mercy of the elements. Make sure you are well-versed in first aid and other backcountry skills such as navigating. But, “there are some very good reasons for fastpacking,” says Skurka. “It opens up new loops, eliminates the need for a support crew and is a more engaging experience.”

Check out information and products at www.backpackinglight.com, www.golite.com, www.montbell.com.

Running fast downhill is a combination of technique, strength, practice—and being fearless. As far as technique, work on looking ahead (up to 50 feet), keeping your weight forward, staying on the balls of your feet, not hesitating and using your arms for “ballast” (keep them out to the side a bit more).

For strength, Bernie Boettcher, who recorded the fastest downhill time ever at the Barr Trail Mountain Race (a 12-mile Colorado classic with a 3300-foot drop in six miles), suggests the following exercises: sit on an invisible chair (i.e. sit with your back against a wall) “to learn to withstand aching thighs” and do crunches for ab and core strength.

“Being good on a technical downhill is hard to teach,” adds Boettcher. “Some people just have it. You have to let yourself go. It’s a combination of nimble feet and a bit of faith that there is going to be a place to put your foot.”

Then, practice, pushing yourself on short downhill sections in workouts, intervalfashion: First, on smoother patches, then on progressively rougher ones. Do intervals of 10 to 30 seconds and push your mind to let go. Put downhill intervals into your training runs at least once a week. You’ll be bombing with the best soon!

MARATHON TO 50 I will be running a marathon soon, and would like to build up to a 50-mile trail race. Can you provide some direction?

—ROBERT DOLAN, DACULA, GA

With a marathon under your belt, you’re most of the way there. Methods vary, but most experts recommend getting in three to four runs of 25 to 30 miles (or five to seven hours) once every two weeks leading up to a 50-miler. In addition, sprinkle in moderate-paced eight- to 10-milers, some tempo runs and some very easy running. Shoot for weekly mileage of 50 to 60 miles.

The biggest differences between a marathon and 50-miler have less to do with actually running than keeping fueled up. On your long training runs, practice eating and drinking. Figure out what works for you. You’ll need to chow more than in a marathon. Shoot for 150 to 300 calories an hour depending on your size, terrain and weather, suggests Jennifer Pfeifer, who started her running career in road marathons before stepping up to her first 50-miler with the American River 50, where she ran 7:09 and placed 3rd (she went on to win it several times).

Learn to walk fast during your long runs since you’ll do it in a 50-miler. Practice “power hiking,” especially on steep, unrun-able uphills. Do longer runs on back-to-back days to practice running on tired legs.

During the actual race, don’t dwell on the entire 50 miles. Divide it into more digestible bites, and focus on running from aid station to aid station. You can find more tips and advice on the chat boards at www.ultrunr.com. ■

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T R AIL TIPS

by RENNE GARDNER

» illustration by ANESSA AREHART

Feeling breathless? Try this.

Allen Carbert of Alpine Ascents instructs his clients to start pressure breathing early in a high-altitude climb, “before they may work themselves into significant oxygen deficit.” Here’s how: 1 Inhale deeply until no more air can be taken in and you feel the rib cage expand. Such a deep breath maximizes the intake capacity of lung tissue.

2 Pause for a brief moment (one second, at the most).

3 Exhale completely and forcefully through pursed lips. According to Carbert, this exhalation creates back pressure and drives oxygen into the aveoli.

If your breathing sounds funny, then chances are good that you are doing it correctly. “Pressure breathing,” says Carbert, “sounds like you’re huffing and puffing all the way up the mountain.”

PRESSURE COOKER THE GREAT THIN-AIR DEBATE—DOES PRESSURE BREATHING HELP?

W

With each labored step on a high-altitude climb, many experienced trail runners and mountaineers purse their lips and blow out forcefully one or more times using a technique called “pressure breathing.”

According to adherents of the technique, pressure breathing increases pressure in the lungs, which forces more oxygen into the lung’s alveoli (tiny air sacs where gases are exchanged), resulting in greater blood oxygen saturation.

“Pressure breathing maximizes the body’s intake of oxygen,” says Allen

Carbert, an expedition manager with Alpine Ascents, a mountain-guiding company in Seattle. Carbert has led climbs on 20,320-foot Denali and 19,340-foot Kilimanjaro. Pressure breathing starts, he says, by taking deep inhalations to maximize the lung’s carrying space. After inhalation, pause momentarily before forcefully exhaling through pursed lips as if inflating a balloon.

Thirty-one-year-old trail runner Kristen Ward of Leavenworth, Washington, who guides on such mountains as Rainier,

Glacier Peak and Kilimanjaro, is adamant about the benefits of pressure breathing.

“I use pressure breathing in the first mile or two of my trail runs to warm up,” she explains. “I also use it when I change speeds. If I’m preparing to pick up the pace I will throw in two quick pressure breaths in anticipation of lack of oxygen.”

Science, however, doesn’t support the technique. According to Dr. Robert Schoene, clinical professor of medicine at the University of California, San Diego, and a long-time mountaineer, pressure breathing does not increase blood-oxygen levels.

Schoene’s 1985 Denali study did show that pressure breathing helps emphysema patients and those suffering from pulmonary edema. Forced air recruits some of the collapsed alveoli to open, thereby supplying more oxygen to the capillaries.

The technique doesn’t help healthy individuals, says Schoene, because all airways and alveoli are already open. Moreover, the pressure created doesn’t boost barometric pressure enough in the lungs to increase the oxygen content.

Schoene, however, does not criticize the technique. He believes that pressure breathing helps to coordinate breathing and pace in a way that’s psychologically beneficial.

To pressure breathe or not to pressure breathe? Physical or psychological benefits? The next time you’re running in the mountains or racing the Pikes Peak Marathon, experiment. A little controlled huffing and puffing could give you just the extra boost you need.

■ 2006 MARCH | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 15

TRAINING

by CAROLINE CRETTI

» photo by MICHAEL HICKEY

Elbows up! The start of the women’s NCAA Cross Country Championships, Terre Haute, Indiana, November 21, 2005.

Xtreme Conditioning LEARNING FROM TRAIL RUNNING’S SMOOTHER, FASTER COUSIN “Now I want you two to stand on either side of the lane,” my cross-country coach said during our pre-race meeting, pointing to a fellow teammate and me. “Use your elbows and protect your teammates at the start. Pretend you are an offensive tackle.”

My teammates and I looked at one another with our eyebrows raised. In our skimpy Williams College singlets and barely there bikini style bottoms, goose bumps on our legs and arms from the biting autumn air, the image of a bulky footballer was far from our minds.

As the starting official walked out to the center of the field and raised his left hand, all 500 female cross-country runners tensed with a foot on the starting line. He fired the starting gun, elbows shot upward, and we rushed forward.

On my right, three girls in bright red uniforms collided with their green 16 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | MARCH 2006

competitors and fell in a heap. To the left, the course immediately narrowed from the width of five swimming pools

XC runners must perfect the balance between speed and endurance; the pure stamina of trail running is meshed with the quickness of the track. to that of a single lane with hoards of spectators lining every inch.

Our team remained untouched and ready to tackle the 3.1-mile race.

CROSS COUNTRY EXPLAINED Cross-country running is similar to trail running, only the distances are shorter, the races more crowded, and the terrain is less extreme. But even with these differences, trail runners can use cross-country train-

ing principles (and even races) to improve their trail performances.

Cross-country races are usually four to 12 kilometers and take place at the high school, NCAA and international levels of competition. Cross country originated as a competitive sport in primary schools and private universities of early 19th-century England, and has since exploded into a world-recognized athletic event. True to its scholastic origin, however, “XC” has garnered the most recognition through intercollegiate and high-school competition.

XC races usually take place on golf courses, groomed trails, athletic fields or a combination of all three.

“The emphasis is on speed over reasonable terrain,” says Chris Lundy, a two-time XC All American for the University of Pennsylvania and 2005 Teva U.S. Mountain Running Team member. Unlike mountain events, XC courses are designed for races

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Cross Country For Trail Runners Perform the following workouts over flat to rolling terrain on grass, trails or paved surfaces. The paces should be dictated by how you feel. Don’t worry about how fast you are going.

Oslerians (named for Tom Osler who created them as a pace-sharpening workout). This workout is designed to train the body to shift gears. Do up to six sets, allowing no more than two to three minutes of rest in between. All paces should be estimated, as mile pace is difficult to determine on the trail. Each shift occurs directly, with no rest.

• 2 minutes at tempo pace (harder than an easy distance-run pace, but should be able to carry on a conversation) • 1 minute at 10K pace (increase from tempo, but still comfortable and should feel relatively relaxed) • 1 minute at 5K pace (harder than 10K, relaxed but pushing it a little) • 30 seconds at 3K to one-mile pace (a substantially faster gear—should feel hard to sustain) • Finish with 30-second “lift” (increasing pace but focusing on feeling relaxed)

Mount Hope Workout (named for the rolling estate on which the Williams College XC team trains). Complete three to five sets.

• 4 minutes at 10K pace (2-minute rest) • 3 minutes at 5K pace (3-minute rest) • 2 minutes at 3K pace (2-minute rest) • 1 minute at one-mile pace (6-minute rest between sets)

and usually have less than 400 feet of total elevation change— mere anthills when compared to the thousands of vertical feet covered in many trail races. The shorter distance and flatter terrain of cross-country running results in a breathtaking pace.

“When I start a XC race, I know that from the gun it will all about running as fast as I can to catch as many people as I can,” says NCAA cross-country runner Sara Morrissey, a top 10 finisher at the 2004 Eastern College Athletic Conference for the Williams College Cross Country team. “But you have to make sure to save enough for a good kick at the end.”

XC runners must perfect the balance between speed and endurance; the pure stamina of trail running is meshed with the quickness of the track. This requires a unique, versatile training approach. The athlete needs strength to accelerate up hills, and the fitness to maintain leg turnover throughout the race.

5th ANNUAL FAR WEST TEXAS JACKRABBIT RALLY In the Rugged Mountain Foothills of Far West Texas • 43k, 30k, and 12k trail runs • • 15k bike/5k run off-road duathlon • Saturday, February 18,2006 8:10 am Start all Runs Franklin Mountains State Park El Paso, TX Contact: Mark Dorion markd@utep.edu http://utminers.utep.edu/markd/ tel: (915) 581-9541

NO TRAIN, NO GAIN Even though XC races are shorter than most trail competitions, it is still important to have a solid base before incorporating speed. Pre- and early season conditioning includes gradually longer runs, mixed with tempo workouts (slightly faster but still within aerobic range; see Training, No. 35) and long hill intervals, all designed to build endurance to cover three miles of breakneck pace.

As the racing season progresses, practice sessions often drift from the hills onto the track or similar flat surfaces, such as athletic fields or rolling dirt roads. The aerobic base is fine tuned through faster, higher intensity workouts in an effort to increase leg turnover and develop the ability to surge when the course or competition dictates.

“A successful cross-country runner can switch gears,” says Pete Farwell, Williams College cross-country coach. “They need to move from the comfort zone into a sustained surge in the race.”

Because of crowded starts, tight turns and close finishes, training is geared toward this ability to adapt, while maintaining a substantial pace.

By the end of the season, training usually involves two to three speed workouts

training « a week (depending on the race schedule), one long run and a series of shorter maintenance runs. This cyclical schedule and variety of intensity is key for any successful program, regardless of the race terrain.

TAKING IT TO THE TRAIL “My training is a cycle of all things: road, trails, track and steep mountains,” says Tom Borschel, 2004 Masters World Mountain Running Trophy Champion.

“Without faster, focused workouts, coupled with the base achieved by LSD [Long Slow Distance], racing will be less successful.”

LSD training certainly has its place in all distance-running repertoires, especially when working toward an ultra or marathon-length race. But when used as the primary technique it can lead to a serious performance plateau.

This is not an attempt to drag you from the mountain trail onto the dreaded oval track. It is possible—even advisable—to hold workouts off the track on flat or rolling terrain. This forces an athlete to run by feel and not time, focusing on the sensation of building and shifting speeds without compromising the freedom of the trail.

“I seem to get injured if I’m on the track a lot,” says Lundy. “I do track inter-

vals maybe once every two months to check my pace … but my coach makes the long run a workout of varying paces.”

And those varying paces are the building blocks toward an overall increase in fitness and racing performance in both XC and trail running.

FINISH FAST One by one, we kicked towards the finish line.

The weight of the previous miles fell off and the pure fatigue was replaced with the learned speed—now on autopilot after weeks of practice.

The banner welcoming us home declared this a crosscountry race, but trail, XC or track, the finish lines always look the same.

Caroline Cretti is a former Trail Runner intern, and All-American cross-country runner at Williams College.

Cross Country Races You Can Do Pacific Association Cross Country Racing Series

Where: Northern CA & Northern NV Dates: Takes place from mid-August through early

November

Race Distance: Men and women race between 3.1 and 6 miles throughout the series

Contact: 916-983-4715; www.pausatf.org

Mayor’s Cup

Where: Franklin Park, Boston, MA Dates: Sunday late in October Contact: 617-566-7600; office@usatfne.org; www.baa.

org/mayorscup Course Description: The Franklin Park course is entirely cross country, comprised almost exclusively of grass and dirt. In the true spirit of cross-country running, the course is challenging with equal parts run on flats and hills. Although each of the Mayor’s Cup races traverses fields, wide trails and grass pathways, the footing is excellent.

Race Distance: Women race 5k and men have the option of either a 5k or an 8k.

Upstate New York Cross Country Series

Where: Rochester, NY, and surrounding area

Dates: September through November Contact: pglavin@rochester.rr.com Race Distance: 4 miles, but varies slightly.

Coal Creek Cross Country Challenge

Where: Lousiville, CO Date: Mid-October Contact: bhkirch@comcast.net; www.usatf-colorado. org/crosscountry.htm

Race Distance: 5.5 miles

TAKE YOUR MARK

by KIP KOELSCH

by DAVID HARPER GARETT GRAUBINS

by DAVE CLIFFORD » photo » Illustration

Fooling around: 2005 50-Mile winner Nora Aldina whistles through the Croom’s trademark pine flatwoods.

Only Fools Rush In IT’S NO HOAX. FLORIDA HOSTS SOME TOUGH TRAIL RACES.

O

Only a “fool” might drive 20 miles inland to run 50 miles on a Florida beach.

Declared one of the “10 Coolest Places You’ve Never Been in North America” (World Wildlife Fund), Withlacoochee State Forest is the home of ancient beaches, remnant sand dunes and Florida’s premier off-road races: the Croom Trail 50-Mile Fools Run, “I’m Not a Fool” 50K and John Holmes 15-Miler.

Less than one hour from Tampa Bay, the Croom course traverses rolling dunes covered with expansive pine flatwoods, hardwood hammocks, freshwater marshes and cypress swamps, complemented by craggy limestone sinkholes and old quarries.

Founded 12 years ago by the late trail-running enthusiast John Holmes, and managed for the last five years

by Shawn and Eve Dietrich of the West Central Florida Adventure Racers (WeCeFAR), the Croom drew 175 participants in 2005.

With friends in the running, triathlon and adventure-racing communities, the Dietrichs attract not only the trail-run-

20 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | MARCH 2006 2005

ning regulars, but adventure racers with designs on improving their trail running and triathletes looking to get off road.

Under the Dietrichs’ tenure, race bags (usable mesh “backpacks”) have become so packed with goodies that racers walk from the check-in lopsided to their cars.

For an ex-patriot Canadian, Murray Maitland of Tampa, the schwag and the race’s enthusiastic volunteers are just wonderful extras. He loves these trails because it brings him a little closer to home. “The Croom Trails remind me of the dry pine forests of my childhood,” says Maitland. “The course winds gently, so runners get a sense of flowing over the landscape.”

The race starts near the Tucker Hill Fire Tower on hard-packed Croom Road—eerily canopied with craggy oaks dripping Spanish Moss and early morning dew. After an initial five-mile loop, runners make three 15-mile loops on singletrack, and quickly discover that this course is anything but flat. Constantly rolling hills (some 150 feet high) combine for a total elevation gain of nearly 3000 feet over 50 miles.

The final quarter of each 15-mile loop is particularly challenging—including a steep down and up through the old limerock quarry of Bundy’s Pit and a series of bigger climbs through (sometimes hot) open pine flatwoods. But even amid the challenge, runners can look forward to the uplifting whimsy of “E’s Hill.” Each year Elaine “E” Anthony begins the race seemingly intent on completing the 50miler and each year she only makes it part of the way through the first loop.

Why? She has stopped at the same hill for the last eight years to revive a peace sign she made from small logs arranged on the ground. Here she stays to decorate the hill with bouquets of wildflowers she gathers along the course. For most Croom runners, it’s likely the last smile they’ll see before the finish line.

The Fools Run ends with a steep, technical push up a root-strewn, rocky trail to the finish line on Croom Road—where racers collapse in the shade of tall oaks and shake the sand of ancient beaches from their shoes.

■

Croom Trail 50-Mile Fools Run I’m Not a Fool 50K John Holmes 15-Miler Where: Brooksville, Florida Course Description: Start and finish at the Tucker Hill Fire Tower in the Croom tract of Withlacoochee State Forest, about 40 minutes north of Tampa Bay. Mostly rolling singletrack with a mix of cushy pine needles, gnarly roots, exposed limestone and a little sand.

Race Date: April 1, 2006 Entry Fee: The Fools Run 50-Miler and the “I’m Not a Fool” 50K cost $60 before March 1, 2006. After that, tack on $10. The John Holmes 15-Miler is $25 per person ($30 after March 1). Race limited to 200 participants.

Info: www.wecefar.com

�� � � � �

Cheryl Albrecht-Harvey running on the Appalachian Trail at Jane’s Bald, Roan Mountain State Park, North Carolina.

PHOTOGRAPH BY KENNAN HARVEY

“Earth laughs in flowers.”

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Call

of the

THE PHOTOGRAPHY O F B R I A N B A I L E Y We all have our definition of the ultimate trail-running road trip.

But a few things are certain—there’s got to be wild trails with dazzling views, and some chums to tag along. The rest is details.

Rocky Mountain High Zeke Tiernan, Caroline Cretti, Becky Anderson and Devin Gardiner seeking bliss, Elk Mountains, Colorado.

5Punch it!

A mad dash to the truck to escape lightning strikes and stinging hail.

3Turn up the volume The anticipation of getting there is half the fun. Crank up Rusted Root. Beastie Boys.

Oldies. Willie Nelson. Sing—or shout— along. Life’s all good in the high country.

4Afterglow Tailgating isn’t just for football—celebrating an afternoon on the endless trails.

2006 MARCH | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 27

5Into thin air

Stop and catch your breath. Listen to the wilderness. Let the big sky swallow your gaze. Marvel at the rosy paintbrush and aspen daisies. Stretch.

4Campfire savvy

Tales of the trails seem to grow the longer the fire burns. Or break out The Book of Questions and learn shocking things about your running partners.

Seeking solitude

Sometimes it feels good to break from the group and run with only your thoughts.

2006 MARCH | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 29

Fantasy highland

Feeling the groove on alpine singletrack.

2006 MARCH | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 31

By Justin S. Tade • Photos by David Clifford

Reversal of torture: after nearly 8000 feet and 13 miles of climbing to Pikes Peak’s summit, women’s winner Corinne Favre of France begins the quad-mashing return trip.

unday, August 21, 2005, 6:50 a.m. Pikes Peak’s jagged, glowing edge slices the cerulean heavens, its mass Herculean, its challenge legendary. As I stand at the starting line of the 50th running of the Pikes Peak Marathon, I question the wisdom of my decision to tackle this race.

Twenty-two years ago my high-school cross-country coach told my teammates and me to drop our chins and lift our knees as we trained on long, gentle southern Iowa hills. But, this is not a neighborhood 5K nor are the hills compromising ES PEAK Midwest knolls. Before me stands PIK America’s celebrated Pikes Peak, and a gut-wrenching 13-mile journey to the top, and back. With an average MARATHON grade of 11 percent and nearly 8000 vertical feet to the 14,050-foot summit, I’ll need plenty more than chin dropping, knee lifting and arm pumping to ascend this beast.

I toe the starting line in Manitou Springs, Colorado, with over 800 other runners from over 40 states and 11 countries, including Germany, Italy and France. We all seek to defy the words of the Peak’s 1806 discoverer and namesake, Zebulon Pike, who predicted that no one would ever climb it.

34 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | MARCH 2006

ROOTS, ROCKS Dr. Edwin James was the first to climb Pikes Peak—in 1820.

In 1888, a carriage road to the top of the Peak was finished, and the first automobile, which was steam powered, reached the summit in 1901. Mountaineer Fred Barr thought the mountain’s true beauty was found on foot and not from an automobile. So in the 1920s he and some friends, with shovels and picks, built what would soon become the Pikes Peak Marathon trail. In 1936, Lou Willie won the first Pikes Peak Footrace, which was an 11-mile ascent that started at the cog railroad depot, in a time of 3:00:55. Twenty years later Willie, a smoker, raced the Peak again, accepting the challenge of Dr. Arne Suominen, a strident anti-smoking advocate, who challenged smokers to race him up and down the Peak. Dr. Suominen finished the 24-mile course in third place with a time of 6:36:28. Four non-smokers finished, and Willie only made it to the top where he called it quits.

Today, the average men’s finish time is 7:07:03, and the average women’s is 7:37:27. Six-time winner Matt Carpenter of Manitou Springs holds the marathon record of 3:16:39. Carpenter has spent hundreds of hours on Pikes Peak and says, “Although we can’t beat the mountain, we can learn from it, train smart and hard, and perhaps be its equal.” While Erica Larson of Los Alamos, New Mexico, has won the women’s marathon a record five times, she has yet to beat Lynn Bjorkland’s, also of Los Alamos, 1981 record time of 4:15:18.

These are records for what many have called “America’s Toughest Marathon.”

Other marathons have made this claim, but the Pikes Peak Marathon is higher in elevation than Vermont’s Jay’s Challenge, it has a 13-mile-long “Heartbreak Hill,” unlike Boston’s mile-long version, and it climbs nearly 2700 feet more than the Leadville Marathon.

At the starting line I nervously chat with a “doubler”—a marathon contender today who also ran the Pikes Peak Ascent half-marathon yesterday—and I wonder if I can finish this race, let alone run the average men’s time. The “doubler,” 71year-old George Johnson, spent the previous night bathing his legs in 10 pounds of ice to get ready for today’s race. He reminds me to “have fun” in a way that assures me he intends to do the same.

Though I have been an avid runner since age six, and have completed the brutal Mount Marathon trail run, a three-mile round trip from sea level to 3022 feet and back, and the Equinox Marathon, which drops nearly 2000 feet between miles 17 and 19, both in Alaska, never have I run for more than six hours straight. Waiting for the starter’s pistol and watching the sun turn Pikes Peak’s granite summit a fiery orange, I think of Jim Freim’s advice. Freim, a legendary local who has run the Ascent a dozen times, advised me that “physical limits are mental,” and that “your body can handle more than you think.” He also advises Pikes Peak Marathon runners to not be ashamed of walking, especially during the first three miles—the steepest of the race. I fear how my body is going to handle the high altitude, and whether I’ll experience any debilitating (potentially fatal) illnesses, including pulmonary edema, abnormally rapid heart rate or high-altitude sickness.

SEEKING ZEN The starter’s pistol snaps me out of my worry and a soothing shot of race adrenaline comes with the surge of some 1600 feet moving en masse toward the long grind. Over the years, many a runner has let adrenaline push them up this early steep grade too quickly, only to suffer later in the race. My strategy: conserve energy during the first seven miles that climb through cool forests of blue spruce, ponderosa pine and wildflowers flanking the east face of Rocky Mountain, which is actually a “foothill” of Pikes Peak.

The slow early pace lets me absorb my surroundings. I look down at Manitou Springs and marvel at how quickly the trail ascends. Checking out my fellow runners, I feel under-equipped. Several wear belts packed with water, provisions and apparently enough gear to overnight on the mountain. I see my first energybar wrapper discarded in the bushes and a torn packet relieved of its over-thecounter painkillers. I wonder why I did not think of that. Although the trail is steep, I feel good. The ant-like phalanx of runners power-hiking around me is good company, that thing that misery loves.

10,200 feet. Seven miles into the race, I reach Barr Cabin. Caretakers still live here. They entertain guests, campers, and runners-in-training, and transport supplies from the cog railroad over a mile away. Between Barr Cabin and treeline, I fall into a rhythm with a runner from

Boulder, Colorado, who has been here three times, and his company makes a few miles of the trail seem easier.

All that is left between me and the tundra above the treeline are aspen groves, dwarf conifers and a rolling rock and root-packed trail. As I maneuver between house-sized chunks of granite and gulp at the thinning air, I am alone with my thoughts and the rhythmic percussion of my breath, like a Zen monk on a pilgrimage through Tibetan hinterlands. Forward, always mind-numbingly forward. And somehow in that aloneness, which tends to frighten most, I think I find the Elysium that Pikes Peak has held for millions of years.

Later, after the race I would find Karl Meltzer and Ian Torrence talking together at the awards ceremony. Meltzer, threetime winner of the Hardrock 100, lists this mind-body separation as one of the reasons he continues to suffer through ultra-marathons. Ultramarathoner and “Pikes Peak Virgin” Torrence, inspired by his 63-yearold father’s first Pikes Peak Ascent the day before, adds, “Running hard at that altitude, everything is numb. I felt at times like I was looking down on myself.”

SUMMIT FEVER Treeline to the 14,110-foot summit. The unforgiving gods of thunder and lightning live in this alpine zone along with tundra, marmots and lots of rocks. The air is clear, and no plants or trees blur the line where earth and sky meet. The torpor induced by an oxygen-deprived brain makes the shimmering summit three miles and 2500 vertical feet away seem within arm’s reach. This illusion of closeness reminds me of the advice I received from my friend Eaton who has completed two Pikes Peak Ascents, “Above the trees do not look up and whatever you do, do not stop moving.”

My strides feel no longer than the length of each plodding foot. Even though the summit is still 45 minutes away, some half-marathoners claim they have heard the summit’s

Top left: All hands on deck: a runner passes through the summit check station.

Left: Sucking a few postrace Os, an unidentified Kansas City runner chose to forego acclimitization, arriving the day before the race.

2006 MARCH | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 35

finish line announcer from here. A repeat half-marathoner from Kansas told me that the first time he passed treeline and heard the announcer, he was sure it was God. He said to the surreal voice, “God, go ahead and take me because I am a lot closer to you here than I am in Wichita.”

Past treeline I start to pass people on relatively flat stretches between the switchbacks. Puddles on the trail—left by the thunderstorm that pounded yesterday’s half-marathoners—soak my feet.

Patches of sleet lurk in the shade of large boulders. When I am about two miles from the summit, I start seeing the race leaders careening down the trail toward me. We mortals give way and watch them with envy. The last mile of the ascent consists of never-ending switchbacks and rock step-ups. Many runners resort to putting their hands on their knees and grinding slowly upward.

The summit, 13 miles and 7800 vertical feet from the start. A wisp of fog joins us at the top with a foreboding chill.

I imagined the summit to be a lonely, windswept pinnacle, but instead find a donut shop, tourists, screaming race supporters and a moonscape of granite boulders with small patches of moss-colored tundra. Some spectators shake their heads and gawk.

All I want to do is point my toes downhill, close my eyes and float to the bottom of this mountain. But, I owe it to myself to savor the halfway point of America’s toughest marathon. I pause to appreciate the view. To the east the terrain is flat all the way to Kansas and beyond. To the south the Sangre de Cristo Mountains roll into New Mexico. North are the rest of the Rocky Mountains that seem to have cast off Pikes Peak like a leper.

Though race volunteers, cheering family members and an orphan cloud surround me, I feel eerily detached. Loneliness is an emotion I will get very close to on my return trip down the mountain.

At last night’s spaghetti dinner, the master of ceremonies asked Pikes Peak Marathon first-timers to raise their hands.

There were very few of us. Only one out of the dozens of runners I spoke with before, during and after the race was a “Pikes Peak

Left: August in the high country: Men’s winner Fulvio Dapit of Italy stays warm by running fast. Right: Smelling the barn: a runner nears the finish line in Manitou Springs.

Virgin.” I asked several why they came back. Most often, the runners fixed me with a glassy stare and replied that they were here because they just could not get enough of the mountain. Thirty-one-yearold Kreighton Bieger of Boulder doubled this year and was the 16th runner to finish, in 4:32:33. Kreighton intends to return because he “always wants to go faster” and “there is no other race like it.” From this vantage point, I believe he is right.

DOWNWARD BOUND Down, all downhill from here. Euphoria overcomes my physical and mental exhaustion, like the sweetness of morphine coursing through the veins of a mortally wounded man. My heart, lungs and brain scream, “Get the hell out of here!” I dive down the narrow, muddy trail on shredded quadriceps stacked upon Gumby knees, leaping over boulders and dodging runners in a blinding headlong charge. Two miles below the summit a volunteer blocks my path and directs me to avoid a switchback. Though my head is still swimming from the altitude, there is no mistaking the reason for the detour.

Behind the volunteer, several courageous, selfless marathoners perform CPR on a fellow runner who is stripped to his waist on the bare granite, motionless, within eyesight of the summit. My sails slacken.

I stop for a moment at treeline and stare back at the summit. I thank it for being there, for providing the challenge.

There should be a line of creepy scarecrows here like on the line of demarcation of the “Forbidden Zone” in Planet of the Apes. A line of scarecrows that say, “Do not go here, man. Stay out or you (continued on page 52) will die.”

PIKES PEAK

TEMPORARY ATHON SUFFERING, MAR ETERNAL MEMORIES Labeled as “America’s Ultimate Challenge,” the Pike’s Peak Marathon combines singletrack trails, high altitude, relentless climbing and a bonejarring descent.

Date: August 20, 2006. The Pikes Peak Ascent (half-marathon) is on Saturday, August 19. Both races fill by mid-April, so register online beginning March 1.

Elevation: Start at 6295 feet, summit 14,110 feet, return to start.

Surface: Except for the first and last mile, the surface is rugged, with packed dirt, roots and rocks.

Weather: Prepare for the worst.

Rain, hail, snow and—worst of all— lightning may be encountered.

Aid stations: Eight aid stations and up to 400 volunteers make this race one of the best supported anywhere.

Recommended first-timer strategy: (1) Run until it gets too hard; (2) walk until it gets too easy; (3) repeat steps one and two until you cross the finish line.

More information: Go to www.pikespeakmarathon.org. For training tips and race accounts, visit Matt Carpenter’s www.skyrunner.com or purchase Training for the Ascent and Marathon on Pikes Peak, by Matt Carpenter and Jim Freim, or America’s Ultimate Challenge, by Harald Fricker.

IT’S EASY! JUST FINISH ANY TROPHY SERIES RACE, AND YOU

2 0 0 6

T R O P H Y

S E R I E S

ARE ENTERED IN THE 2006 TRAIL RUNNER TROPHY SERIES. 8WHAT a point series of over 110 trail races, including two divisions: Marathon and Under, and Ultra.

8WHO anyone is eligible. Just finish a TROPHY SERIES race, and you’re automatically entered. Win bonus points for finishing top three.

8WHEN all races take place between March 1 and September 30, 2006.

8WHERE TROPHY SERIES races dot the United States

and Canada, from coast to coast (see page 41 for listing).

See page 41 for a listing of all 2006 Trophy Series races.

Visit: www.trailrunnermag.com for details and updates.

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

* * WIN

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T R O P H Y

S E R I E S

See p. 38 or trailrunnermag.com for info

PACIFIC/DESERT 03/04 Old Pueblo 50-Mile Endurance Run 50M; Sonoita, AZ; www.ultrazone.us/OP50; oldpueblo50@simplybits.net 03/11 Way Too Cool 50K Cool, CA; www.run100s. com/snu; wser100@comcast.net 03/18 Chuckanut 50K Bellingham, WA; www.gbrc. net/chuckanut50K.html; kmoehl2000@yahoo.com 03/18 Crown King Scramble 50K; Morristown, AZ; www.crownkingscramble.com 03/25 March Mudness 13.1M, 50K, 100K; Portland, OR; www.orrc.net; longrunpdx@gmail.com 04/01 American River 50 50M; Sacramento, CA; www. run100s.com/snu; wser100@comcast.net 04/09 Peterson Ridge Rumble 30K, 60K; Sisters, OR; www.footzonebend.com/rumble; smeissner@lycos.com 04/15 Capitol Peak 50-Mile and Relay Olympia, WA; www.capitolpeakultras.com/cp50mile.htm 04/23 Mt Si Relay and Ultra Runs 50K, 50M, 50R; Snoqualmie, WA; www.ontherunevents.com/mtsirelay; mtsirelay@verizon.net 04/23 Spokane River Run 5K, 10K, 25K, 50K; Spokane, WA; www.spokaneriverrun.com; spokeaho@msn.com 04/29 Escape from Prison Hill Half Marathon & Relay 13.1M; Carson City, NV; www.sagebrushstompers.org; Jeffrey.Mark@us.army.mil 04/29 Zane Grey Highline 50-Mile Endurance Run 50M; Payson, AZ; www.zanegrey50.com; jazzzaz@comcast.net 05/06 Miwok Trail 100K Sausalito, CA; www.run100s. com/miwok; miwok100k@aol.com 05/13 Malibu Creek Trail Challenge 4M, 14M; Malibu, CA; www.trailrace.com; info@trailrace.com 05/13 McDonald Forest 50K Corvallis, OR; www.mac. oregontrailseries.org; ken.ward@hp.com 05/20 Bishop High Sierra Ultra-Marathons 20M, 50K, 50M; Bishop, CA; www.bhs50.com; andrew. boyd2@verizon.net 05/21 Ohlone Wilderness 50K Trail Run Fremont, CA; www.abovethefog.net; ohlone50k@abovethefog.net 05/27 Mt Wilson Trail Race 8.6M; Sierra Madre, CA; eweaver@ci.sierra-madre.ca.us 06/10 Lake Youngs Ultra 28.8M; Bellevue, WA; aj_martineau@yahoo.com 06/24 Double Dipsea (Walt Stack DSE Double Dipsea) 13.7M; Stinson Beach, CA; www.doubledipsea. com; runkenrun@aol.com 06/24 Western States Endurance Run 100M; Squaw Valley, CA; www.ws100.com; wser100@comcast.net 07/15 Clackamas River Runoff 15K 8K, 15K; Estacada, OR; www.RogueMultiSport.com; cneely@RogueMultiSport.com 41 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | MARCH 2006

>>SIGN UP NOW! Just finish any 2006 TROPHY SERIES race, and you will be automatically entered.

07/29 Mt Hood PCT 50/50 (Scott McQueeney Memorial) 50K, 50M; Clackamas Lake Historic Ranger Station (PDX), OR; www.pctultra.com, www.orrc.net; longrunpdx@gmail.com 08/12 Mt Disappointment 50K Angeles National Forest, CA; www.mtdisappointment50k.com; eventdirector@mt disappointment50k.com 08/13 Haulin’ Aspen Trail Marathon and Half Marathon 13.1M, 26.2M; Bend, OR; www.FreshAirSports.com; haulinaspen@freshairsports.com 08/19 Where’s Waldo 100K Willamette Pass, OR; www. wpsp.org/ww100k; thornley@wpsp.org 09/16 Cle Elum Ridge 50K Run Cle Elum, WA; kmoehl2000@yahoo.com 09/16 Timberline Marathon 26.2M; Government Camp, OR; www.RogueMultiSport.com; cneely@RogueMultiSport.com 09/23 Run/Walk 4 The Poor Trail 1/2 Marathon Benefit Challenge 5K, 10K, 13.1M; Lakewood, WA; www.humanmultisportspnw.org or www.active.com; humansports2001@hotmail.com 09/30 Serrano Canyon 15K Malibu, CA; www.trailrace. com; info@trailrace.com ROCKIES 03/18 Antelope Island Buffalo Run 25K, 50K; Syracuse, UT; buffalorun.org; ultrajim@charter.net 04/22 Spring Desert Ultra Trail Running Festival 5M, 10M, 25M, 50M; Fruita, CO; www.geminiadventures.com; reid_delman@geminiadventures.com 05/06 Capon Valley Run 50K; Yellow Spring, WV; www. iplayoutside.com/capon50; lynn@edgebrook.org 05/06 Collegiate Peaks Races 25M, 50M; Buena Vista, CO; www.collegiatepeakstrailrun.org; chamber@buenavi stacolorado.org; Burke.Kaiser@collegiatepeaksbank.com 05/13 Prickly Pear Land Trust Don’t Fence Me In Trail Runs 5K, 12K; Helena, MT; www.pricklypearlt.org; mpmiller93@yahoo.com 05/28 Medicine Bow Half Marathon 13.1M; Laramie, WY; www.angelfire.com/wy2/marathon; RunWyo@msn.com 05/28 Wyoming Marathon Races 5K, 13.1M, 26.2M, 52M; Laramie, WY; www.angelfire.com/wy2/marathon; RunWyo@msn.com 06/17 Wahsatch Steeplechase 17.5M; Salt Lake City, UT; www.wahsatchsteeplechase.com; butch@butchadams.com 06/18 Joe Colton’s Off Road Adventure Run 5K, 10K, 10M, 15M; Rollinsville, CO; www.joecoltonadventure.org; Lori.Kinczel@igc.org 06/24 Old Gabe 25/50K (formerly Jim Bridger) 25K, 50K; Bozeman, MT; www.math.montana.edu/~thayes/ Runs/Runs.html; trailrunner@montana.net 06/25 Golden Gate Canyon Trail Run 20K; Gilpin County, CO; www.runuphillracing.com; adam@runuphillracing.com 07/09 Summer Roundup Trail Run 12K; Colorado Springs, CO; www.pikespeakmarathon.org; raceinfo@pik espeakmarathon.org

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07/16 High Mountain Trail Run 25K, 50K; Leadville, CO; www.hminet.org; coachamanda@earthlink.net 07/22 Snow King Hill Climb 2.3M; Jackson, WY; www. tetonwyo.org/parks; jharkness@tetonwyo.org 08/TBA Mantua Mountain Marathon 26.2M; Mantua, UT; www.ultrarunner.net; brentmary@gmail.com 09/02 Grand Teton Races 26.2M, 50M, 100M; Alta, WY; www.tetonraces.com; LRSmith916@aol.com 09/02 Meeteetse Absaroka Challenge 5K, 10K, 15K; Meeteetse, WY; www.meetrec.org; meetrec@tctwest.net 09/04 American Discovery Trail Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K Colorado Springs, CO; www.adtmarathon. com; sultancat@adelphia.net 09/09 Mid Mountain Marathon 26.2M; Park City, UT; www.mountaintrails.org; info@mountaintrails.org 09/16 Sombrero Ranch Roundup 4.5M; Estes Park, CO; www.bolderboulder.com/sombrero.cfm; matt@bolderboulder.com 09/17 Lead King Loop 25K; Marble, CO; www. leadkingloop25k.com; macek57@hotmail.com 09/23 Golden Leaf Half Marathon 13M; Aspen, CO; www. utemountaineer.com; paul@utemountaineer.com 09/30 24 Hours of Frisco 24H; Frisco, CO; www. emgcolorado.com; emgmh@emgcolorado.com HEARTLAND 03/11 Land Between the Lakes Ultra Trail Run 24K, 58K; Grand Rivers, KY; www.wkrc.org; sdurbin@marquettetrans.com 03/17 Three Days Of Syllamo 20K, 45K, 60K; Mountain View, AR; www.runarkansas.com/ThreeDaysSyllamo.htm; threedaysofsyllamo@mail.com 03/19 Brew to Brew 43-Mile Relay and Solo Run 43M; Kansas City, MO; www.Brewtobrew.com; ljoline@aol.com 04/01 Rockin K Trail Run 26.3M, 50.6M; Kanopolis State Park, KS; www.ultrarunners.info; psheridan@classicnet.net 04/15 McNaughton Park Trail Runs 30M, 50M, 100M; Pekin, IL; www.mcnaughtonparktrailruns.com; aweinberg@pekinhigh.net 04/22 Double Chubb 25K, 50K; St. Louis, MO; www. stlouisultrarunnersgroup.net; slugrd@yahoo.com 04/30 Trail Marathon & Half Marathon 13.1M, 26.2M; Pinckney, MI; www.trailmarathon.com; events@runningfit.com 05/27 Berryman Trail Run 26.2M, 50M; Potosi, MO; www.stlouisultrarunnersgroup.net; slugrd@yahoo.com 06/03 Kettle Moraine 100 Endurance Runs 100K, 100M, 100R; LaGrange, WI; www.kettle100.com; kettle100run@yahoo.com l o c a t i o n e i g h t 06/04 Deadwood Mickelson Trail Marathon & Half Marathon 13.1M, 26.2M; Deadwood, SD; www.DeadwoodM [ date ] 11-29-05 leanhorse@rushmore.com ickelsonTrailMarathon.com; [ c l i e n t ] W.L. Gore Trail Run 7.1M; Danville, IL; www.

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07/01 [ i s s u eAfton ] #38 Feb/Mar aftontrailrun.com; aftontrailrun@yahoo.com [ media ]

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www.honeystinger.com

race calendar « 07/08 Keweenaw Trail Running Festival 5.8K, 10K, 25K; Copper Harbor, MI; www.keweenawtrails.com; jcrumbaugh@charter.net 07/29 Grand Island Trail Marathon & 10K 10K, 26.2M; Munising, MI; www.algercounty.org; jcrumbaugh@charter.net 07/29 Indian Hills Trail Run 3M, 8M; Ashtabula, OH; www.hmapromotions.net; HMA@NACS.NET 07/29 Minnesota Voyageur Trail Ultra 50M; Carlton, MN; www.voyageurtrailrun.com; BDCurnow@msn.com 08/19 Cleveland Shrine Club Cross-Country 5K; Cleveland, TN; www.milesplit.com/meet/13047; coachpar ks@tennesseerunner.com 08/26 Lean Horse Hundred, Half Hundred & 50K 50K, 50M, 100M; Hot Springs, SD; www.leanhorse.com; leanhorse@rushmore.com 09/09 Dances with Dirt Ultra and 100K Relay 50K, 50M, 100R; Hell, MI; www.danceswithdirt.com; events@runningfit.com 09/24 Wild Wild Wilderness Trail Run 7.6M; Danville, IL; www.kennekuk.com; krr@kennekuk.com EAST 03/04 Seneca Creek Greenway Trail Marathon and 50K 26.2M, 50K; Damascus, MD; www.mcrrc.org; ed516p@aol.com 03/11 Trout Creek Trail Runs 5K, 15K; Thonotosassa, FL; www.tamparaces.com; ricky@tamparaces.com 03/25 Bel Monte Endurance Run Trail Races 25K, 50K; Sherando Lake Recreation Area, VA; www.badtothebone. biz; rungillrun@adelphia.net 04/01 Croom Trail Fools Run 15M, 50K, 50M; Brooksville, FL; www.wecefar.com/croomtrailrun; ediet@knology.net 04/02 Borderland Trail Run 16M; Easton, MA; www. realsimplesolutions.com/trailrun.htm; photostudio@real simplesolutions.com 04/02 Urban Environmental Challenge 6.3M; Bronx, NY; www.vctc.org; ddburns13@msn.com 04/09 Flatwoods Four Trail Race 4M; Thonotosassa, FL; www.tamparaces.com; ricky@tamparaces.com 04/29 Owl’s Roost Rumble 5K, 13.1M; Greensboro, NC; www.owlsroostrumble.com; smbassett@hotmail.com 05/13 Massanutten Mountain Trails 100-Mile Run 101.8M; Front Royal, VA; www.vhtrc.org; stanruns@att.net 05/20 Dirty Dog Trail Run 15K; Charleston, WV; www. wvmtr.org; danieltodd@charter.net 05/20 Long Island Greenbelt Trail Run 50K; Plainview, NY; npalazzo@optonline.net 05/27 Pineland Farms 50K & 25K Trail Challenge 25K, 50K; New Gloucester, ME; www.mainetrackclub.com/ pinelandfarms.html; iparlin@maine.rr.com 06/10 Laurel Highlands Ultra 70.5M; Ohiopyle, PA; www.laurelultra.com; rfreeman@access995.com 06/10 Northfield Mountain Trail Race 10K; Northfield, MA; www.cmsrun.org; dave.dunham@comcast.net 06/17 Highlands Sky Trail Run 40M; Davis, WV; www. wvmtr.org; wvmtr@starband.net 06/18 Greylock Trail Races 3M, 13.1M; Adams, MA; www. runwmac.com; dion@bcn.net

06/24 Loon Mountain Race 6M; Lincoln, NH; www.whitemountainmilers.com; info@whitemountainmilers.com 07/08 Cranmore Hill Climb 10K; North Conway, NH; www.whitemountainmilers.com; info@whitemountainmilers.com 08/20 Savoy Mountain Trail Races 4M, 20M; Florida, MA; www.runwmac.com; saharczewski@aol.com 08/26 Springmaid Splash Xtreme Trail Race 10K; Spruce Pine, NC; www.mitchellraces.com; hollifield68@bellsouth.net 09/09 Odyssey Trail Marathon & 1/2 Trail Marathon 13.1M, 26.2M; Douthat State Park, VA; www.OARevents. com; info@OARevents.com 09/23 Great Eastern Endurance Run 50K, 100K; Blue Ridge Mountains, VA; www.greateastern100k.com; rungillrun@adelphia.net CANADA 03/04 Dirty Duo Trail Races 25K, 50K; North Vancouver, BC, Canada; www.dirtyduo.com; heather@dirtyduo.com 05/13 Keremeos Kruncher 25K, 50K; Keremeos, BC; www.eagleruns.com; eaglemoe@nethop.net 05/20 MEC 5 Peaks Trail Series-COP 5K, 10K; Canada Olympic Park, AB; www.fivepeaks.com; info@5peaks. com 05/27 Blackfoot Ultra 25K, 50K, 50M, 100K; Edmonton, AB; www.blackfootultra.com; info@blackfootultra.com 05/27 Sulphur Springs 10K, 25K, 50K, 50M, 100M; Ancaster, ON; www.burlingtonrunners.com; jhewitt@pathcom.com 06/17 Kusam Klimb 23.2K; Sayward, BC; www. kusamklimb.ca; hollo@kusamklimb.ca 06/17 MEC 5 Peaks Trail Series - Mt Ste Anne 5K, 10K; Mt Ste Anne, ON; www.5peaks.com; info@5peaks.com 06/24 Eagle Lite Ultras 25K, 50K, 50M, 100M; Keremeos, BC; www.eagleruns.com; eaglemoe@nethop.net 08/06 Wreck Beach Bare Buns Fun Run 5K; Vancouver, BC; www.wreckbeach.org; Judyw@wreckbeach.org 08/07 Northwest Passage Marathon and Ultramarathon 13.1M, 26.2M, 35M; Somerset Island, Nunavut; www.CanadianArcticHolidays.ca; mail@Canadia nArcticHolidays.ca 08/26 MEC 5 Peaks Trail Series - Crabbe Mtn 5K, 10K; New Brunswick, ON; www.5peaks.com; info@5peaks.com 08/26 MEC 5 Peaks Trail Series - Whistler 5K, 10K; Whistler, BC; www.5peaks.com; info@5peaks.com 09/03 Walk in the Park 50K; Kamloops, BC; www. ultrarunner.net/witpindex.html; bmpskier@shaw.ca 09/08 Lost Soul Ultra 50K, 100K, 100M; Lethbridge, AB; www.lostsoulultra.com; tmea@telusplanet.net 09/09 MEC 5 Peaks Trail Series - Albion 5K, 10K; South Eastern Ontario, ON; www.5peaks.com; info@5peaks.com 09/09 Moose Mountain Trail Races 16K, 29K; Calgary, AB; www.members.shaw.ca/moosemountain; jen. silverthorn@shaw.ca 09/30 Run for the Toad 25K; Cambridge/Paris, ON; www.runforthetoad.com; sarson@toadpatrol.com ■ 2006 MARCH | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 43

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TR A I L T ESTED

THE BEST GEAR FOR

2006

HEADS UP Shades to shield your peepers. Lightweight lids brimming with style.

Moisture-wicking stocking caps to combat cooler temps.

» BY GARETT GRAUBINS » PHOTOS BY DAVID CLIFFORD

KIRSTEN IS WEARING...

OUTDOOR RESEARCH ETHER JACKET $89 Breathable, wind- and water-resistant polyester at only seven ounces. Nylon-stretch panels make for an athletic fit. www.orgear.com SPORTHILL INFUZION GLOVE $20 Poly/lycra blend a good cool-temp option. Snug fit and gripper palm for trail-side dexterity. www.sporthill.com SMITH THEORY SUNGLASSES $109 Sleek and versatile, the Theory offers several frame options and over a dozen interchangeable lenses. Curved design minimizes side exposure to wind and sun. www.smithoptics.com

DAVID IS WEARING...

MONTBELL 3-D ZIP SHIRT $48 The open weave and six-inch zipper redefine breathability. Snappy color offerings. www.montbell.com BOLLE MORPH SUNGLASSES $60-$100 (depending on lens) Durable, suave frames—with several color options. Padded, grippy temples and nose piece minimize slippage in sweaty situations. www.bolle.com

trail tested « LEFT TO RIGHT

OUTDOOR RESEARCH ETHER CAP, $22 Light colors that won’t absorb the sun’s hot rays. Breathable mesh on the forehead.

Stiff, reliable bill. www.orgear.com

INSPORT MESH CAP, $16 One of the best-ventilated caps around, with a 360-degree sweatband inside. The reflective logo’s great for the occasional road. www.insport.com

LITE & MOTION G2 LED, $25 Possibly the ultimate night-time running cap. An embedded LED casts an ambient glow and thick, reflective trim around the sides warns motorists. Breathable mesh with an inner sweatband. www.bosshead-lite.com

OAKLEY FIVES, $80 The economical Fives combine youthful style with tech lenses, and will seamlessly cross over from Boulder, Colorado’s Mesa Trail to the Pearl Street Mall. All plastic construction may slip a little on rough trails. www.oakley.com

SPORTHILL INFUZION HEADBAND, $14

KAENON KORE, $180 With three different-sized lens sizes, the Kore’s snug, wrap-around design can be customized to just about any noggin shape or size. A huge variety of lens tints—all polarized—tackle any light condition. www.kaenon.com

Contoured designs widens at the ears. Soft fleece liner wicks extraordinarily well. www.sporthill.com

JULBO INSTINCT, $99 The Instinct features a clean, grippy, wrap-around design with rubber tips at the end of the temples. The trick, brand-new Zebra lenses adapt to changing light conditions. www.julbousa.com

THE NORTH FACE ULTRA PACK, $150

180S EXOLITE EAR WARMER, $25

The Ultra Packs feature three interchangeable lenses, grippy temples, and a “self-modeling” nose piece, which swivels to accommodate varying-shaped schnozzes. The unique vent above the lenses discourages fogging. www.thenorthface.com

Warm and easily stash-able, the ExoLite’s waferthin profile and paltry 0.7-ounce weight are revolutionary. www.180s.com

1

1

OUTDOOR RESEARCH ACTIVA HAT, $22 Toasty, soft-fleece lining. Don’t let the flowery logo fool you: the smooth exterior is weather-resistant. www.orgear.com

2

PRANA BONDED WOOL BEANIE, $24 Heavenly for après-run. Shag-soft, warm and undeniably chic. Men’s models, too. www.prana.com

2 3

SMARTWOOL BEANIE, $22 The comfort of Smartwool socks … on your head. Double-layered and smooth, the beanie quickly wicks sweat from your melon. Adjustable length for varying temps and headsizes. www.smartwool.com

7

8 4

BUFF HEADWEAR, $18.

Versatile. It’s a skull cap, balaclava, babushka and bandana all in one. Comes in countless patterns and colors. www.buffheadware.com

3

5

PATAGONIA R.5 BEANIE, $22.

Stretchy and comfortable—a snug fit that doesn’t feel suffocating. Quick-wicking fabric dries fast, but also has a great warmth-to-weight ratio. www.patagonia.com

6 6

SUGOI MIDZERO TUKE, $20 Fleece-lined and stretchy for a variety of fits. Too hot? Roll it up above your ears. www.sugoi.com

7 5

CLOUDVEIL FOUR SHADOWS BEANIE, $35 Ideal when your willie is chilly and Mama Nature’s raising hell. A soft-shell, water- and wind-resistant lid.

The tassel scores mucho style points. www.cloudveil.com

4 8

OUTDOOR RESEARCH NOVO WATCH CAP, $16 Flat-seam construction and stretchy, semi-compressed fit. A seemingly weightless 0.9 ounces. www.orgrear.com

» trail tested

BODY ARMOR These apparel options blur the line between performance and panache. With snappy colors, breathable fabrics and comfy cuts, you can chill with your favorite rag (Trail Runner, right?) and mash up a mesa without changing your duds.

HOLLY IS WEARING...

KIRSTEN IS WEARING...

ZEAL OPTICS JUICE, $79 Lenses adapt to changing light conditions. Gender-specific frames available in several styles and colors. www. zealoptics.com

INSPORT DRYSPORT TEE, $25 Comfortably fitting and quick-drying mesh, with smooth, silky banding in chafing areas, such as neck and underarms. www.insport.com

CLOUDVEIL HIGHLINE TOP, $85 Smooth, wicking fabric that can also endure the elements.

Huggy, athletic fit encourages movement yet wears casually. www.cloudveil.com PRANA ASADA PANT, $65 Kick back post-run in these loose-fitters that will remind you of that favorite pair of sweat pants—but worlds more stylish. www.prana.com

ADIDAS SUPERNOVA , $90 A fresh update on an old classic. See page 49.

LA SPORTIVA BARR TRAIL, $85 See page 49.

DAVID IS WEARING...

SPORTHILL NOMAD II PANT, $65 A wispy, comfortable fabric that accommodates a wide range of temps. A semi-loose fit and zippered hip pockets make it great for running errands, too.www.sporthill.com

trail tested « TOPS Snazzy threads that ventilate and protect simultaneously. Today’s crop utilizes space-age fibers, bodymapping technology or seamless knits to achieve ultimate comfort while you’re digging deep.

TOP DOWN >>

EMS TECHWICK TEE, $28 www.ems.com

NEW BALANCE VALVE TEE, $42 www.newbalance.com

ASICS REFLECT RUN SHIRT, $42 www.asicsamerica.com

INSPORT DRYSPORT TEE, $25 www.insport.com

ASICS THERMOPOLIS X-LITE, $42 www.asicsamerica.com

GROUND

LIMESTONE S/S, $34 www.groundwear.com

<< TOP DOWN

SUGOI WIRED, $70 www.sugoi.com

GROUND LIMESTONE L/S, $34 www.groundwear.com

BLURR VANTAGE, $40 www.blurrstuff.com

SUGOI WOMEN’S CIRCUIT TEE, $55 www.sugoi.com

LEFT TO RIGHT

REI

TRAIL-RUNNING JACKET, $99 Highly durable, wind- and water-resistant shell with a zip-off hood. Weighs 13 ounces. www.rei.com

THE NORTH FACE PROPHECY JACKET, $169 An 11-ounce waterproof shell with plenty of ventilation zippers. A visored hood and adjustable wrist cuffs also help keep water at bay. www.thenorthface.com

BROOKS L.S.D., $85 A miracle in minimalist design. Paltry 3.1 ounces and it packs to the size of an Altoids tin. www.brooksrunning.com

» trail tested

FOOT FARE Legends begin right here, where the rubber meets the dirt. Foot speed, traction and even blister prevention all hinge on your choice of footwear, including socks.

ASICS GEL-TRAIL ATTACK II, $80 Following the lean trend, the luggy-but-light Attack (M9.5 weighs 11.6 oz.) utilizes a tongue-free, booty design that hugs the foot like a seamless slipper. www.asicsamerica.com DARN TOUGH SOCKS, $15 Trail Runner’s 2005 Best-in-Dirt sock. Merino wool and nylon, shockingly durable. www.darntough.com

SHOE STORY.

Don’t miss next issue’s 2006 Spring Shoe Review, where we’ll break down over a dozen of the newest, lightest treads on the market.

trail tested « TIGHTS/PANTS When temperatures dip, tights are your hidden ace. They insulate and wick, and more studies show that the compression some models provide may actually inhibit muscle fatigue. All models are available for men and women.

LEFT TO RIGHT

EMS ZONER PANT, $70 www.ems.com CW-X PRO TIGHT, $95 www.cw-x.com SUGOI ENDURO TIGHT, $65 www.sugoi.com LEFT TO RIGHT

ADIDAS

SUPERNOVA TRAIL, $90 Supernova continues to shine. Tank-like stability at only 11.9 oz. (men’s size 9). Pillowy cushioning, a gusseted tongue and an aggressive outsole, make this the complete technical trail-running package. www.thestore.adidas.com

LA SPORTIVA

BARR TRAIL, $85 An aggro enforcer on the trails, the BT delivers stability and protection via medial posting, protective underfoot plate and toe- and side-foot reinforcement. Grippy rubber outsole lets you run with moxie (and sticks like epoxy). www.sportiva.com

TIMBERLAND ACTUATE LOW, $80 At 16 oz. (men’s size 9), this is a burly customer, constructed with the harshest trail conditions in mind.

Thick mesh, single-sock construction and snug lacing system. A stellar fastpacking alternative to wimpy models. www.timberland.com

BROOKS

CASCADIA, $90 An update to last year’s classic. Medial posting once again stabilizes your foot plant and mesh upper breathes well. The big change: enviro-friendly rubber outsole has more grip at a slightly lighter weight. www.brooksrunning.com

TEVA

X-1, $90 Trail support—and a new, enhanced outsole—at a weight (M9 weighs 10.4 oz.) comparable to racing shoes. Mesh sides help the shoe drain like a sieve, keeping your feet dry in the long run. www.teva.com

SHORTS The light weight and comfort of a swimsuit plus the ruggedness of hiking shorts, trail-running shorts wick moisture from your skin, dry quickly and let you move freely. Many have a plethora of pockets for your other essentials, like energy gels, bars or gloves.

LEFT TO RIGHT

ASICS REFLECT SHORT,$40 www.asicsamerica.com GOLITE TERRAIN SHORT, $45, www.golite.com PATAGONIA ULTRA SHORT, $45, www.patagonia.com GROUND MEN’S ALL-AROUND SHORT, $38 www.groundwear.com LEFT TO RIGHT

POWERSOX

TRAIL-RUNNING QUARTER, $8 Cushioning, ventilation and wicking at a bargain price. www.powersox.com

SUGOI WOOL SOCK, $14 Warm, durable and breathable merino-wool construction. www.sugoi.com

BRIDGEDALE

X-HALE ADRENALIN, $15 Cushioned pressure points around balls of feet, heel and toes. Interwoven mesh helps air circulation. www.bridgedale.com

SMARTWOOL

BROOKS HVAC RACER, $18 Anatomical fit (w/ right and left platforms). Silver fibers inhibit odor-causing bacteria and regulate temperature. www.brooksrunning.com

X SOCKS

SKY RUN, $28 Engineered to the hilt, an “X” pattern supports the ankle, ribs encourage air flow and there’s extra cushion where it counts. www.x-socks.com

TEKO

DEFEET

ECOMERINO WOOL QUARTER, $14 Made from organic cotton, wool and ecopoly recycled polyester. Thin weave for breathability and intimate trail feel. www.tekosocks.com

ULTRA LIGHT MINI CREW, $13 An alternative to Smartwool’s cushioned models—a much thinner, breathable sock with reinforced mesh in top-foot friction friction zones. www.smartwool.com

CUSH 3D, $11 Cloudlike softness in high-impact areas and a mesh weave for breathability. Silver-fiber construction inhibits stinkiness. www.defeet.com

2006 MARCH | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 49

» trail tested

ACCESSORIZE The “small stuff” is much more than window dressing for your trail ensemble.

These extras are just as vital to your performance—and survival—as shoes, socks and shorts.

PROTECH SUNBLOCK, $32 (3 oz). Non-oily sunscreen (SPF 30) and skin moisturizer. www.protechskincare.com PATAGONIA AXUWOOL L/S ZIP-T, $90 Wool liner partnered with moisture-wicking polyester. Deep zipper opens from top and bottom. www.patagonia.com

trail tested « ULTIMATE DIRECTION FASTDRAW GROOVE, $19 The handheld Groove incorporates a 20-ounce bottle with the cool Kicker Valve (quickly closes with a side tap), and a pouch to accommodate a gel and an MP3 player or … ahem, even a cell phone (just make sure you turn yours off when you’re running in a group; for emergencies only!). www.ultimatedirection.com

NIKE OREGON SERIES DIGITAL, $69 A 100-hour chrono and five-split timer make this a great training partner—and stylish all-day companion. ; www.niketiming.com HIGH GEAR LOFT, $150 A chrono, thermometer, altimeter, barometer and heart-rate monitor in one, 2.2-ounce unit. www.highgear.com

ADVENTURE MEDICAL KITS GO! TRAVEL, $10 A bare-bones kit (<2 oz.) equipped to treat any minor trail mishaps. Contains bandages, Tylenol, first-aid ointment and a splinter/tick remover. www.adventuremedicalkits.com

LEFT TO RIGHT

DEFEET

ARMSKINS, $25 A secure roll-top keeps these skins from rolling down. Assorted funky styles. www.defeet.com

PEARL IZUMI

THERMA FLEECE ARM WARMERS, $25 Fleeced comfort and warmth, plus rapid moisture transfer. Silky smooth (dare I say, aerodynamic?) surface. www.pearlizumi.com

SUREFIRE

E2L OUTDOORSMAN, $125 For night runners who prefer the versatility of handheld lights. The techy, lithium-powered E2L has a super-intense 3-watt LED bulb (30 lumens) and a six-hour burn time. Pocket clip attaches to a hat or waist belt. Batteries included. www.surefire.com

ESSENTIAL GEAR LUXEON STAR 3WATT 2 123A TACTICAL HAND TORCH, $65 The affordable Luxeon Star throws out a whopping 80 lumens and has a burn time of three hours. Wrist strap and lithium batteries included. www.essentialgear.com PETZL

MYO XP, $70 Soon to become an ultra favorite: one high-output, 3-watt LED with four lighting levels, a boost mode (50-percent brighter for up to 20 seconds), and a diffuser lens. All packaged into a tidy design (6 oz w/batteries). www.petzl.com

PRINCETON TEC

APEX, $80 A heavy-duty headlamp that sports one massive 3-watt LED and 4 smaller LEDs. Battery power meter indicates when you’re running low. www.princetontec.com

BLACK DIAMOND

SPOT, $43 A simple, yet illuminating design. The feathery three-ounce weight includes batteries, one-watt hyper-bright bulb and three LEDs. A great price, too. www.bdel.com

KELTY

TECATE, $60.

The sleek Tecate is the perfect size (pack volume: 300 cubic inches) for long runs in the hills, with a two-liter bladder that can be quickly accessed via a full-length side zipper. A zip pocket and bungie compression cord will accommodate spare clothes and snacks and lunch for big days. www.kelty.com

LEFT TO RIGHT

OUTDOOR RESEARCH POWERLINERS PL150, $32 Stretchy, insulating fabric and a smooth, snug fit. Perfect as a midweight layer or cool conditions.

Men’s available, too. www.orgear.com DEFEET

DURAGLOVE, $15 Effective in a wide range of temperatures, with a cozy fit—sure beats those bulky gardener’s gloves. Wicking comfort and a textured, rubber palm for gripping. www.defeet.com

ILLUMINITE INSPIRA RUNNING GLOVE, $20 Comfortable, sleek-fitting glove with terry-cloth thumb for drippy noses. Windproof version also available. Reflective design for the occasional road section. www.illuminite.com MOUNTAINSMITH BREATHABLE STORAGE CUBE, $20 With 1700 cubic inches, this nifty bag will tote all your gear to the trailhead or starting line. The waterproof liner and open mesh top accommodate wet clothes and won’t let them get moldy before you make it home. www.mountainsmith.com

PEAK EXPERIENCE

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Or Write: PO BOX 700-5TR SADDLE RIVER, N.J. 07458-0700

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whispers and > Mumblings, behind-the-scenes reports

(continued from page 37) Ascending was a battle of head, heart and lungs. On the return route the richer air shifts my heart and lungs to cruise control.

I now have less time to take in the awesome views because my pace is much faster than the ascent, and my eyes are glued to the trail, looking for that rock or root waiting to take me down, which they do. My thighs, knees and ankles take a beating as I try to maintain a smooth stride. My joints make noises like those in the Batman comic books. Bwong! Splat! Pow! Crunch! I twist both ankles, twice, and hit the deck three times. Blood streams from my knees, hands and head. The stalwart volunteers at the aid stations cheer me on, but even speaking to them would entail expending the miniscule energy I have left. So I smile and grind through the fragrant primeval forest, letting gravity pull me to where I can stop and lie down. At times on the way down I find myself feeling strong and rejoicing in the aloneness of the woods. But, pain slams me against a wall at mile 21.

I beg my rebellious legs to carry me through the final miles of this race. Then I think of my fallen comrade high on the mountain, and my suffering retreats. I revel in the thoughts that I am still standing and have run up and down a renowned mountain and in my own way can finish this race that he could not. I dedicate my race to a person whose name I don’t know until after the race—Oklahoma City native and veteran marathoner Gary P. Williams—because his presence has made me forget my pain.

(Williams suffered a heart attack and died at that switchback below the Pikes Peak Summit.)

Manitou Springs, 3 p.m. I bask in the glow and utter exhaustion of finishing the 2005 Pikes Peak Marathon in less than six hours. Other marathoners limp in, smiling. Unleashed relief and joy surround me. Unlike many of my fellow racers, I cannot say that I will ever run this race again, but I know in my heart that I am better off having completed it because I found a toughness in myself that I had never tapped. It truly is, as Jim Freim told me after explaining the mental and physical preparation required to finish, a “race of truth.”

from the trails.

dark training and > Deep, motivational secrets.

Runner Trophy Series > Trail breaking news.

Justin S. Tade is an actor and writer.

You can catch him running the desert trails around Albuquerque, New Mexico, or on The History Channel’s Taming the Wild West: The Legend of Jedediah Smith or Seraphim Falls due out in theaters in late 2006.

52 TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM | MARCH 2006

last gasp « (continued from page 55) The bomber descent plunged down an off-camber slope where the footing resembled a field of wet grass covered with tennis balls. Then it got steeper.

We rolled onto a stone-covered trail straight down the hill. The rocks were a mixture of small plates of slate, marble-sized ball bearings and granitelike cantaloupes, in random piles for at least a mile. My liver and bladder bounced their way into my left and right shoe.

I passed seven runners, but my calves and quads and hamstrings were screaming, and the silver-dollar-sized blisters on my heels were ready to pop. When they finally did, the burning sensation lit me up like matchsticks, but I tried to hang on.

We entered a steep, narrow trail, and I cut hard to the inside on corners and powered out the far side. This worked well, except the sides of the trail were covered with thorny bushes that tore my legs bloody.

I got passed on a short uphill, but I could see the finish line at the top. I grimaced with every inch of my being, sprinted, and held for 20th. Two runners tied for 21st just four seconds back.

An English woman in the finish corral looked at me and said, “My, he really looks like he’s suffering, doesn’t he?”

I had a good race. It wasn’t one of those great days for me, but I don’t think I could’ve run any faster, and I never quit trying to pass people.

That being said, 14 runners from England beat me. Fourteen! England, a country that’s smaller than Florida, and less than half as big as my home state, Colorado, had eight runners in the top 10. They seem to have more trail-running clubs than the U.S. has trail runners. Even though they’ve packed 46 million people in their limited space, I found countless dirt trails to run on.

Sure, they have great terrain, but so do we. The U.S. race courses, however, are namby-pamby by comparison.

“What happened?” I wondered as I sat in the awards tent sipping my water.

And then it occurred to me. I was the only person in the whole dang joint not drinking beer! An advertising motto beside an English flag confirmed my suspicions: “Up the hill, down the ale.”

Maybe that’s their secret.

Bernie Boettcher gave up drinking beer to run, and now he wonders why.

2006 MARCH | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 53

Other Must-Do Races BEL MONTE ENDURANCE RUN 50K/25K March 25, 2006 6:30 AM The race begins at Sherando Lake, in the George Washington National Forest, and covers some the most scenic areas on the East Coast. Over 90% single track trail and about 10% fire and gravel roads. Time limit: 10 Hours. Gill or Francesca: Charlottesville Running Company, 110 Old Preston Avenue, Charlottesville, Virginia 22902. Phone: 434-293-7115.

Email: rungillrun@adelphia.net; Web: www.badtothebone.biz PERUVIAN ANDES RUNNING ADVENTURE July 7 to July 23, 2006 Run the Inca Trail and finish at the legendary “Lost city of the Incas” - Machu Picchu! For runners of all abilities. Full support provided to allow you to enjoy the runs “at your own pace”. (800) 289-9470, www. andesadventures.com.

TENTH ANNUAL PARK CITY MARATHON AND MARATHON RELAY August 26, 2006 6:30 AM Enjoy clear mountain air and cooler temperatures! Picturesque loop past alpine meadows, Olympic venues, ski resorts and historic mining town. Approximately half of course is on wide, maintained trails.

Easy airport access from Salt Lake City. Host hotel with reasonable rates. Online registration after 1/1/06. www.pcmarathon.com.

A

B

C

Which of these runners would you take advice from?

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LAST GASP

by BERNIE BOETTCHER

English Lessons ACROSS THE POND, THE TRAIL RUNNERS SCHOOL US Worlds. I thought I had a shot. After all, the only masters runner to beat me at the U.S. 10K Trail Championships was Matt Carpenter.

I finished 10th overall against all the other U.S. runners, and most of them were much younger than I. Of the 40 races I’d run by midAugust, I finished out of the top three in the masters division once, when I lost a shoe.

So I plunked down $723 for a plane tickIt was raining hard the next morning et to England to race in the World Masters when I went to sign up in the old clock Mountain Running Championships in tower at the center of town, where a Keswick. After 32 hours of traffic jams, list showed over 1100 entrants from 27 flying across the ocean, hauling my trailcountries. A good turnout. Still, I was running luggage set optimistic. Technical The bomber descent through airports and downhill is my thing, careening down the plunged down an off-cam- and this course had wrong side of the road ber slope where the footing a healthy dose of it. I through the English was in my element. resembled a field of wet countryside, I found When race day grass covered with tennis myself resting in the arrived, the butterfeather bed of a 304flies in my stomach balls. Then it got steeper. year-old farmhouse. seemed to be enjoyThe curved ceiling beams had been scaving the sunny skies. All I had to do was enged from a ship on the coast, hauled run 11.5K, with 2250 feet of climbing up and mortared into place 75 years before the mountain and the same amount barthe U.S. even declared independence. reling back down.

» Illustration by JEREMY COLLINS

The starting corral was a frenzy of activity, with hundreds of runners and spectators buzzing in all directions. The race official waved his gun like a flame in front of a hive of honeybees. “Back up! Back up!” he shouted, but no one listened. Then, without warning, the gun went off and the crowds cheered. A tumultuous free-forall ensued as racers sprinted across a soccer field and funneled into a sheep pasture. Boxed in, I made a bold move to the inside, and passed about 25 runners in a 10-second burst through knee-high grass.

We entered a steep and narrow trail, with a bit of elbowing as runners grappled for position on the loose rocks.

As we neared the halfway mark, the course opened up into a grassy meadow flanked with stone fences. We could choose short grass or stone trail as we climbed through the pasture.

Then it got serious. The course took a hard left up an embankment and traversed through a field of heather and high grasses, the path steep, wet and muddy. We turned right and went straight up the fall line and it got even steeper—over 20 percent grade.

To pass anyone, you had to bushwhack through calf-high grass and tough heather plants, or just maintain pace and try to hold footing on the narrow, barely visible path through ankleturning mounds of grass.

As we neared the summit, I figured I was about 25th. I’d passed 10 runners through the steep section, but found myself walking along and gasping for air with everyone else. We crested the high point of the Lonscale Fell and, in a strange juxtaposition, plugged our computer chips into an electronic sensor to collect our times, sheep grazing nearby. (continued on page 53) 2006 MARCH | TRAILRUNNERMAG.COM 55