Rewind to last Saturday. The TARC 50/100 down in Massachusetts. Kate and Danielle were running the 50 and Bob D. and Tom W. were running the 100. Perhaps obviously, I was focused on crewing for Kate and hopefully seeing her get through her first 50 mile race.
The course was hilly and technical and the weather was hot; not a good recipe for a first 50-miler. Long story short, Kate had to drop at mile 35 due to foot pain. But... I cannot express how sincerely proud I am of her. This pride is not to be mistaken for being cliche or as a token gesture after a perceived failure. She fought like hell and kept pushing even though she knew later on during the race that she wasn't going to make the cut-off. She exhibited true ultra-runner spirit to the bone by not giving up until she had to and being disappointed that she dropped, but still proud of her effort. She's hungry for another shot at a 50, and given her display of toughness, I know she'll get it.
Danielle finished the 50 and Tom the 100... both putting up great efforts despite the course and the heat, which contributed to a 65% finishing rate for the 50 and only 15% for the 100.
So, the decision that evening was easy. Given the inspirational performances from my wife and friends, it was more than enough to push me over the edge towards registering for the Big Brad Ultra 50 Miler this October. I am really glad I did.
And now today. Just a short four miler. Some rust, humidity and lack of decent sleep the past few nights conspired against me. Not a slog and it was quite enjoyable... just didn't feel very peppy is all. It happens. Next time.
Ran 3.8 miles @ 9:43/mile pace.
Trails.
Very hilly.
Lower 70s, mostly cloudy, humid.
Saucony Peregrine 3, shorts, short sleeved shirt, cap.
No comments:
Post a Comment