Chasing 100: Single Digits

The "weeks til go time" countdown is now in single digits. WOW! Nine weeks left to train - three of those weeks in taper mode - which means I have six weeks of hard core, no wimps allowed, go hard or go home training ahead of me. I've given up on being nervous and have thrown myself into terribly excited about this 100 mile adventure.

Until recently I had a coach mapping out my plan and monitoring my progress. Though I love the idea of having this person to help me and hold me accountable, I learned that my lifestyle isn't conducive to following a rigid plan. I require a fair amount of flexibility. I didn't want to let the coach down week after week so we parted ways. I would say that I successfully completed most of the workouts she planned for me, but it added an element of stress. So, now I am going to spend some time pulling these last 9 weeks together and hope for the best.

I am thrilled that two of these weekend training runs will be pacing some great friends. I feel honored that they are sharing their journeys with me. I will pace Leah at Umstead 100 this weekend and ring in her birthday out on the trail. I will pace Eric at Pottawatomie 150 and be out there running through the nights. Yes, plural! I don't know for sure, but I feel that using pacing as part of the overall training can be very beneficial for the big day. While pacing I get to witness what happens physically and mentally in the later miles of the race, I get to brainstorm coping strategies, run through the night, practice walking, get lots of time on feet. And the best part, I get to witness the sweet reward of the finish line through these amazing athletes. So my new plan has two weekends covered, now to fill in the rest:-)

And my ADD will take this post in another direction now...

Last weekend I ran the Gorge Waterfalls 50k in Oregon. I have never in my life seen something so amazingly beautiful. I have shared Tara's pictures on FB - but here are just a couple of shots. I would absolutely recommend this go on every runners bucket list. Enjoy!