Trail Monster Ultra Power!

Big ups to fellow Trail Monsters Ian, Jeremy, Mindy, Val, Zak, David and George for some very impressive performances at the McNaughton 50/100 and Massanutten 100 this weekend. Jeremy earned his 100-mile buckle at McNaughton and the final word isn't out on George yet, but it looks like he should be finishing the Massanutten 100 soon. The rest ran the 50-miler, and it sounded like it was an insanely tough course. Very happy for all of them. Well done all!

As for me, I just home brewed a batch of IPA while following reports of my friends on Facebook. I haven't home brewed in nearly a decade, so I had to relearn it all again and it's really not that hard. Everything went nicely without any real hitches, thanks in large part to Kate's help.

About to steep the grains. 

Stirring the wort after adding the hops.

Let the fermentation begin!

After all of that, I watched baseball for a bit and then took a nap. Woke up and then went for a trail run. Hit the dump loop and took the pace easy. It's a very hilly course and a pretty fun one. Heard the first rumbles of thunder of the season which was also a treat. Pretty warm out, but the body is acclimating to it.

One week until Sugarloaf. The mindset is pretty relaxed and confidence is high, which is nice. Going to take it really light this week. I figure with Boston five weeks ago along with a pretty full training week the other week, rest is of a top priority. Tomorrow off and all very short and easy runs this week, aside from one day (likely Wednesday) where I'll do a couple of miles at MP to keep the legs fresh.

Ran 4.6 miles @ 9:06/mile pace.
Trails and dirt roads.
Very hilly.
Mid 70s, mostly cloudy.
New Balance MT110, shorts, short sleeved shirt.