Desert RATS Racer Posts

Results

Place Last First Gender Division Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Overall
1 Meissner Sean m run Oregon 2:52 5:51 1:09 9:34 04:16 23:42:00
2 Adams Michael M run Texas 2:53 6:30 1:15 9:19 03:59 23:56:00
3 Cain Rob m run Oregon 3:12 6:30 1:24 11:09 04:03 26:18:00
4 Baldwin Kyle m run Arkansas 3:33 7:59 1:31 11:15 04:43 29:01:00
5 Soong Caroline f run Colorado 3:49 7:51 1:40 12:21 04:52 30:33:00
6 Olmstead Thomas M run Arizona 3:42 8:22 1:31 12:34 04:50 30:59:00
7 McKinney Mark m run California 4:07 8:55 2:05 14:03 05:34 34:44:00
7 Mcmahon Elaina f run California 4:07 8:55 2:05 14:03 05:34 34:44:00
9 Egli Shelly f run Oklahoma 3:53 8:29 1:58 15:37 04:55 34:52:00
10 Owsley Jeff m run 4:07 8:29 1:41 15:58 05:07 35:22:00
11 Muldoon Warren M run California 4:25 9:02 2:07 14:45 05:25 35:44:00
12 Hogan-Murphy Diana F run Ireland 4:25 9:55 1:41 15:22 05:30 36:53:00
12 Pearse David M run South Africa 4:25 9:55 1:41 15:22 05:30 36:53:00
14 Mcginnis Jason m run Oklahoma 4:19 9:17 2:27 15:37 05:27 37:07:00
15 Greyson Grace Ann F run New York 5:00 9:22 2:03 15:22 06:04 37:51:00
16 Arterburn Vicky f run Oklahoma 4:41 10:17 2:10 15:37 06:16 39:01:00
17 Sylvester Joel M run Scotland 4:40 10:17 2:22 16:30 05:59 39:48:00
18 Cowart Michael M run 4:06 10:25 3:03 17:03 05:45 40:22:00
21 Meinking Dennis m run Missouri 5:11 10:33 2:32 17:46 06:45 42:47:00
22 Price Jennifer f run Missouri 5:11 10:33 2:32 17:46 06:55 42:57:00
19 Egli Kurt m run Oklahoma 4:40 11:35 2:36 17:03 07:06 43:00:00
23 Keltner Karl m run Missouri 5:20 10:40 2:36 17:46 06:55 43:17:00
24 Haag Susan f run Florida 5:50 10:12 3:03 17:19 06:56 43:20:00
20 Kedzuf-Mcginnis Lisa f run Oklahoma 5:00 9:52 2:27 18:38 07:55 43:52:00
Trahern Eugene m run Oregon 3:33 9:44 2:12 dnf 04:34 unofficial
Ripley Tom m run Washington 5:17 dnf 2:20 dnf 06:30 unofficial
Ralph Christina f run Washington 5:56 dnf 2:20 dnf 06:53 unofficial
Martin Shaun m run Arizona 2:34 6:09 1:25 dns dns unofficial
Clemmer David M run 4:21 dnf dns dns dns unofficial
Crane David m mtb New Jersey complete complete complete complete complete complete
Dela Houssayl Isabella f mtb complete complete complete complete complete complete
Di mitrova Iliana f mtb New York complete complete complete complete dns complete
Herzog Jane f mtb Washington complete complete complete complete complete complete
Thompson Eugene M mtb Colorado complete complete complete complete complete complete
Stage 4 - 6/17-6/18 Name: Tom Ripley / Chris Ralph Report: Long day not so long for us. Chris has no big toe nails and I can not deal with the temperature. We dropped at first aid station again this year before it really got hot !!!. Last day I am planning on a good marathon to finish the week. Chris adds having a great time and wish you were here. TomR Name: The other Eugene T (Trahern) Report: I finally started to recover the evening of the short day (Wed). Woke up feeling much better, but still low on fluid and energy. Started off the long stage and cruised through 10 miles about 10 minutes faster than I ran the entire 9 mile stage the day before. Life was good. Refuled and started up a long 4 mile climb, where I slipped back into the exhaustion and dehydration from the previous 2 days. Called it a day at 14+ miles and didnt finish the stage. Am trying to recover today for tomorrows marathon stage. Utah is spectacular, and overall this has been a great week! Name: Jeff Owsley Report: I can't believe I did it! I haven't been able to eat much since getting sick on Tuesday and my leg muscles felt totally shot before starting a 52 miler with major climbing. About 12 miles in I started feeling all up-chucking, like I could throw-up at any moment. I couldn't run because the impact made my stomach worse, so it became a very long march. By the time I got to the Aid Station at 27 mies I was seriously thinking I should drop out and I was hoping for a doctor's excuse to do so. OUr doctor, Jeremy talked me through it and gave me a strategy for dealing with it. My wife provided encouragement and the other runners helped - it all worked together to give me hope and I decided to go on. I got to a really low point in an isolated area by myself and was getting very emotional. But I thought about having a thankful heart and since I had so many miles to go, I decided to think through my whole life and what I was thankful for. That kind of made me more emotional, but it helped. I got to the top of a 10 mile climb and the sun started setting - somehow I made a total turn around and experienced a second wind like I never have before. My legs actually stared feeling better and my GI system seemed to settle down. On the other hand, I could tell I was developing bad blisters, but I think they worked to mask other pains. I realized that I could run again and I cruised in at a good pace down the last 7 miles and ran fast to the finish. It was an experience of a lifetime - not only 52 miles, but being out there almost 16 hours up to about 11:30 at night, climbing about 8500 feet and not having much fuel to go on - it seems like a miricle. And I am so thankful! Name: Dave Pearse Report: We are relaxing at a beautiful camp on the rest day after the Expedition Stage of 85kms yesterday. It took us all of 15 hours plus and was as tough as any of the Stage race long days! Extremely long climbs and heat were the two biggest challenges. Di has kept going with a broken hand quite superbly and the positive was that we finished strongly after some low points earlier in the day. I received a bit of attention at the finish for the totally wrong reason! 10 metres from the line with 3 of us hand in hand I carelessly fell and sustained an open dislocation of the little finger on the right hand. Anyway, they have a fantastic medical team and as the Medical Director was still out on course, the guys at camp together with Di made sure I was totally comfortable warm and pampered with food and drink until he returned to manipulate it back into place. I was then drivrn to the Moab ER where they put about 8 stitches into the wound so all set to go for the final push tomorrow. What an incredible race this has been! The organisation, the hospitality, the scenery and the comeraderie have no equal. We make a sorry looking team right now with our damaged right hands (everyone says I was just tired of all the attention Di was getting - Di's is going to take a lot longer to heal!) so we are looking forward to getting to the finish in Moab tomorrow! Name: Lisa Kedzuf-McGinnis Report: Yesterday was the most difficult run I have ever had. It was absolutely beautiful and absolutely painful. The terrain changed so much which kept it interesting but feet are just torn up. I knew it was going to be difficult starting out but I prayed alot. It helped some but relief was not enough. I pressed on. I was alone most of the day. It was difficult. I have no idea how much we climbed but will be interested to find out. Everytime we would get to the top I thought maybe we would just stay at that elevation but we would go down and just climb back up. I battled hard from just before the half point to stay ahead of the three that were not far behind me, they were in last. Not so much because they were last, just because they were sticking together and I didnt want to wait at any aid stations, water stops for all 3 of them to fill up. They passed me around mile 38? Paul, the SAG biker, serving as sweeper was now at my siaade. He was assigned to ride along the last runner for the duration and I was not in good spirits. Poor guy. He was like an angel. He kept me going and we made it to the end. After the last aid station there was 9 miles left. The first 1.5 miles were straight up and with it being dark, this was acutally easier because it was just one foot in front of the other. Then it flatten out but there were the little rocks here and there and it was just difficult to judge your step to speed up. I was happy to hit the pavement at first because I thought I would be able to speed up but it just hurt to much. There was a 6 mile down hill and it was just so difficult on my bruised and blister feet. It took me about 3 hours to cover those last 9 miles. My time was approx 18:30. When I came in the finish, all that were still up cheered me in. Many waited up. Jas gave me the longest hug and I just cried. For a brief moment the pain was gone. All my friends hugged me and congratulated me for fighting through the pain. DFL (dead frickin' last) is better then DNF (did not finish!) Also I forgot to mention all week I have had the worst bloody nose - just big boogers and clot like things coming out. Today we are going to the beach for a few hours. There is a big shade tree that I plan to hang out under as my skin is burnt in some strange areas as well as my lips. Tomorrow is just a marathon, 6 miles up, then 20 down. A challenge but all it takes to finish this epic adventure. Looking forward to writing a more detailed race report while cuddled up on the couch with the hubby and dogs. Name: Jason McGinnis Report: I don't even know my finish time from yesterday (maybe 16 hours) but it doesn't really matter. Yesterday was all about guts. I have run a total of 122 miles in 4 days and yesterdays 52 was incredibly beautiful and incredibly hard. I cried at the end for many different reasons (the pain, anger, frustration, the accomplishment. I've never given so much of myself in a race. I really left it all out there. We climbed about 8000 feet but it was hot and the climbs seemed to last forever. Two great friends ran the entire way with me. Thanks Shelley and Vicky! You ladies are hardcore. I broke down several times and the course and these women brought me back from the brink. This was the only race where I dropping out crossed my mind multiple times. The best thing about the race was that it seemed the very hand of God carved out the places we ran yesterday. We enjoyed huge canyons, mesas, and some extremely technical trail. I don't know how I feel about this race yet. But I do know its kicking my arse. My right foot is bleeding and I have bruises on the balls of both of my feet and it feels as if some drunken badger has knawed my ankles to nothing. Tomorrow is the finish. I will toe the line but I'm dreading the pain that will come. Name: Joel Sylvester Report: I've done harder runs, and I've still to do anything to top the sheer fatigue of Norseman, but yesterday was the toughest day I've experienced in term sof knuckling down and keeping moving against heat and pain. My legs felt good all yesterday, the ITB problems seem to have passed with a combination of stretching and excellent massage. Instead my feet decided it was their turn to complain. 35 miles of running on hot coals, my feet were agony. This was with the larger shoes I'd brought with me, I guess I won't be returning them to Run and Become now. The climbs were long but easy gradient, and under normal circumstances (ie not having already run 60 odd miles this week) would have been straight forward - the other guys in the race don't appreciate the fun of running down loose rock! With the miles in my legs and in my feet though it was mostly a walk/shuffle and just having to HTFU and keep moving. Keep moving. There were plenty times when I just wanted to sit at the side of the road and take the weight off my feet, but that wouldn't have moved me any closer to the goal, so I shouted and sang and chanted rude words to the time of my trekling poles and kept moving. It was hard. On the plus side, parts of the route were truely stunning. Some of the canyons we went down I just stood and stared with my mouth open, trying to imprint the scene in my memory. Incredible. The race organisation remains excellent, people can't help you enough. Got to go get my brunch now - one more day of running to go. Name: The Other Sean M Report: Shaun dns today. I finally had a bit of a rough day. My hydration and electrolytes were right on (thanks to thinking of Bronco, I took the equivalent of 3-4 nuun tablets and/or s-caps per hour), but unfortunately twice I spaced out on time for taking a gel, and I bonked pretty good both times. The first time I was able to get back in the game, then the second is when Mike caught me and blew by me as he power-hiked up a climb. It was a bit frustrating as the climbs were fairly runable for the most part. It was a beautifully rugged course, and very remote, too. The weather was mild, reaching probably mid-80s. I was lucky and didn't run out of water, as most did. At the last aid station with 8 to go, reports were Mike was 20-30 min. ahead of me. So after being crabby with the volunteers (which I felt horrible about 2 min. later), I ran hard up 2 more miles to 8,600' then flew down the final 6 in 40 min. I was completely wasted when I finished, 15 min. after Mike. I now have a 31 min. overall lead. Now we're all hanging out at the beach on our rest day, drinking, snacking, chatting, swimming, snoozing...life is pretty nice. Tomorrow I'm the rabbit and start 31 min. ahead of the pack. I'm excited! Pretty sweet week. Name: Caroline Soong Report: Holy crap today's stage was like slow torture. The long gradual climbs, hot weather and running out of water before the water drop added to the long excellenthaveday. My lips got so chapped today that I seriously put chapstick on every five minutes. The delicious brownies that I brought with me from Grace's Birthday brownie cake saved me during the second long climb. It now feels great being done and putting my feet up. I'm watch the other runner's come in and it is great to see them happy and relieved to have finished. Name: chris ralph Report: my feet have healed well since my last run and i am lookimg forward to the marathon finish. everyone has been werful and the staffimys excellent. new friends, better friendships relaxing times. love to my husband and babie doggies. Name: Kurt "Done Duck" Egli Report: Well...that was that. Finished the Expedition stage...I won't say in one piece but I finished. Again RATS has not dissapointed...pain, beauty, isolation...I was so thankful for my bud Cowart if it wasn't for him I would still be out there. He pulled me the whole way. Thanks dude... Lesson Learned...Sometime the most important spot on the plant is 5 feet infront of you. Name: Susan Haag Report: O MY GOSH - CAPITALIZED! I have never suffered so much in my recent memory. I will start with the positive - the scenery continues to amaze me. I feared the 20 hour cutoff on the 52 mile day so opted not to take a camera. I ended up needing to concentrate on finishing. I was glad I burned no extra energy stopping, snapping and restarting. I started the day with bruised pads on both feet. I ran with Kris and Tom who had bandaged my feet with compeeds and did some blister prep. We hung together for the first 13ish miles to the aid station. I felt a little energy but each step smarted. I began the 2nd leg by myself since they dropped but felt like I was climbing with purpose and enjoyed the pressure on my heels v. the pads. I thought I took a wrong turn on this leg thru the rocky paths and retraced my steps at least 1/3 mile. Adding to the long day and using energy I needed to conserve. I ran out of water before the next station but didn't think I hurt myself too much. I am diggin' the Ensures for food. Easy to get down. And carrying the bottle in my shorts waistline. I wore my new desert shirt and funky desert hat. GOOD MOVE and so comfy and cool. The sun was hot and I burned the back of my legs, even tho I lubed up twice. I felt a little weak after passing Cowart and Kurt Egli but they passed me back on the hill as I concentrated on eating more and drinking more. I walked with them for a bit and ran out of water again. Hard to choke down a packet of pnut butter. At the last aid station, I put on my jacket and the wind was so cold. However, We put our head lamps on about 2 or 3 miles before. Here, Kurt and COwart surged ahead as I realized I could make it in and needed to slow down. Once I got on the road for 6 miles - the roadway did the smack down of my pads and made them 10x worse. I fear this is it. I had tried to stay off them today and ice them in the river, but they hurt just as much... But back to last nite for a second...b/c I accomplished that goal -I was so thrilled that Iliana came back out to walk the downward miles with me. She had an extra jacket to warm me up and I used her better headlamp. I tried to go fast but was dying on the vine. I had to breathe out with each step b/c the pain in my pads was so bad. I hate not being able to walk anywhere without pain. My hats off to each of these athletes. My legs want to go on, my heart wants to go on, BUT I am going to go tomorrow til pain sidelines me on the 26 mile last leg...the 8 hour cutoff will not help me...Fingers crossed and GOD SPEED to me. Folks deal with more pain then this...please let me endure. I love you. 143. ps, the desert is so harsh, but so beautiful...we went down an amazing rock steep hill...I could not believe how much an adventurer I felt...Thanks Utah..o, and when I was coming down the last mtn on the asphalt, I saw 2 little beady lights. I looked over and there was a sitting cow, near her calf about 10 feet off the road...but I was too tired to laugh. I miss my family and friends. Name: Thomas Olmstead Report: I have learned more things than I had anticipated prior to coming. One of my more important lessons was not to stare and give a thumbs up to Cows or they will chase you. Around mile 50 I thought two cows were about to catch me after this, but I was fortunate enough to still be able to outrun them. Everyone here has a great amount of experience running ultras and have been as great help in teaching me lessons and tips. They helped me really learn about managing your salts, electrolytes, and water before and during the race. This really helped how I performed and felt during the time. The scenery here is the most beautiful area I have run through. I'm having a great time with the new friends I have made and my father being here. I'm looking forward to the marathon stage tomorrow and seeing the family soon afterwards. Name:Jane Herzog Amazing scenery! Hardest thing I think I have ever done, but I'm having an absolute blast!! Got to leap frog with Warren all afternoon and evening. Luckily he had an extra flashlight and I was able to get him to the finish . . Warren - FOLLOW the GLOW STICKS!!!!!! Name: Michael Cowart Expedition stage yesterday... legs got back underneath me just in time. It waS a long day out there but... the scenery/landscape was as beautifully untouched creation as I have ever seen. The company was top notch as well... Kurt and I decided beforehand to stick together and finish. We talked, laughed, joked, sang army cadence, all the while keeping up a relentless forward progress that evenually led us home. Yesterday there was no where else I'd rather been... and nothing else I'd rather have done. I am thankful for the opportunity and the strength. Tomorrow is the final stage... "only a marathon to go" I think I'll run. Name: Lisa Kedzuf-McGinnis PS. Tomorrow is "Marathon to the Shower" :) Name: Vicky AAs the day pasted I began feeling much better and am ready for the marathon The expedition stage was by far the toughest part of the race...I broke down at the end and cryed...I was not sure if I was going to make to the last stage. As the day went on I began feeling much better and am ready for the marathon stage...Love you guys...miss you! Name: Shelley Egli Well, I survived yesterday! Very hard. Felt great through mile 37 then it all fell apart. Thank goodness no thunderstorm this year...only bright blue sky! Ran with Vic and Jason the whole way. They sure helped me through the day! Scenery was just amazing as last year if not more. Blisters are horrible. Losing two toe nails. One is barely hanging on. Can't wait for tomorrow...only a marathon which sounds funny to say! Can't wait to finish. Spent today at the beach lounging around and laughing. Having fun, but can't wait to take a shower. Talk to you all tomorrow night! Miss you! Name: Rob Cain Report: Moab Blister Festival 2010. For some reason I didn't participate. Not sure why but I'm happy.
Stage 3 - "Sprint Stage" - June 16, 2010
Name: Kyle Baldwin
Report: Short day today...only 9 miles. Felt pretty good and I'm actually sort of looking forward to tomorrow's 52 miles. I'm sure I'll be feeling different about it tomorrow, though. Although we're just at about 4,000 feet, the altitude is killing me. The heat has been bad as well. I don't know how much hotter it is this year, but it seems notably hotter...and everyone is saying it's hotter. I go with that. I hope it's hotter any way. Having trained this year (versus last year when I didn't train at all), I was hoping to run quite a bit faster, but my times are coming in even with last year. Through today I'm about 6 minutes where I was at this time last year. I miss you guys and can't wait to see you on Sunday.
Name: Jason McGinnis
Report: My body definitely felt the miles from the previous days this morning. I was super stiff and sore. I am also not getting much sleep. I cramped in every possible location all night and had to pee about 4 times. I wouldn't mind the camping if we weren't running so many miles. Getting changed is a major challenge in our small tent amongst all the gear. Anyway...enough whining. Today we only ran 9 miles. There were some good steep hills and decents and in one section we ran right along the Colorado River. I ran the entire way with Lisa which was really nice. We talked about the race, our pains, and our dogs. The time flew by and now I am sitting under huge cotton wood and I am lovin' it. We are also right next to the Colorado so we've all been washing and doing laundry. Its awesome! My legs and spirit feel very refreshed. Its so beautiful here! Peace.
Name: Kurt "The Living Dead" Egli
Report: Stage 3 done...yesterday I suffered from the word go...horrible day Many many times I was going to call for a ride...I just couldn't. It would have been so easy. My should was so tired...my back was gone.
Lesson learned; Yesterday does not predict today...and today doesn't predict tomorrow...
I was on auto piolt today...9 miles. Revovery today...52 miles into the mountains tomorrow the only thing I know is that I will start.
Name: Michael Cowart
Report:fell apart at mile 12 yesterday... basically walked the last 26 miles with cramps the whole way. Today was all about recovering for tomorrow. Walked 9 miles in 3 hours came in dead last on the stage. Tomorrow will be about survival again. Spirit is good... body somewhat battered.
Name:Rob Cain
Report: Lots of carnage yesterday. The heat was intense, especially on the last few miles of paved road. The night made it worth all the stress--Buffalo Cheeseburgers, Beer and a Rootbeer Float. Yum! Bugs at the campsite were as advertised, they bite but the bite doesn't itch. Beautiful campsite today, right on the river. Very windy and of course sunny and hot. Glad today was short as this wind would dry out someone fast. The run today was uneventful. We ran along the river for a portion then up the only steep climb and finished on another stretch of road. The 50 miles tomorrow will be interesting. Looking forward to seeing my family on Friday. Hope the bugs aren't bad. Moira you should know I have more bug bites than most of the others. Can't imagine what you'd be like since you're our family bug magnet. Off to a message. Life is good!
Name:Mark McKinney
Yesterday's 38 miler was all about survival. Felt really hot, especially when there was no breeze. Got a pretty good blister on my right heel. Started out as a hot spot, but with one stride it felt like something just popped. Elaina and I stopped and put a blister pad on it and I was able to shuffle the last 5 miles. Today's 9 miles felt like a vacation. After a dip in the river we're just relaxing in the shade and trying to eat and drink. We hope everyone at home is safe and doing well. Tommorow is 52 miles, into the mountains!
Name:Dennis & Jennifer (Uncle & Niece)
Report:Day 1 was a tough day, beautiful, lots of rocks, went up a lot of hills. 5000 feet elevation, cliffs were 200 to 300 foot fall "if you went over" Camp and food was good, 5 to 6 hours sleep.
Day 2 Started out feeling good, easy, highlight of the day, peanutbutter & jelly sandwich at 17. The 39 was easier than the 20. Saw a wild boar, had knife and hammer gel ready, found out it was a piece of metal, ran from 730 to 600, took our first dip in the colorado, 1st bath in 2 days. injuries: Jennifer 6 blisters, Dennis 2 blisters.
Day 3 Easy nine miles to new campsite, dip in colorado river, visit with Kay.Getting a massage & Resting before BIG RUN....52 miles, 8000 elevation, 1st climb 10 miles, 2nd 9 miles. Shooting for 15 to 16 hour finish, might have to use the flashlight. Thanks for all the well wishes from everyone!!!
Name: Jeff Owsley
Report: I was thinking that 9 would seem easy after almost 60 the last two days, but it was brutal on my legs, which feel like hamburger. I also struggled with my stomach last night and this morning. There was quite a bit of climbing today - one felt like the Incline in Colorado Springs - and steep downhills. Once again, however, fellow runners carried me along with positive encouragemen. I started walking even on flat areas and David from South Africa and Dianna from Ireland came by and encouraged me to keep up with them. We actually finished quite strong, all three hand in hand across the finish line. I just love all these people.
Name: Susan Haag
Report: O my aching feet! Today was only 9 miles...but felt like forever. Even going 3 miles an hour over fairly easy landscaping was effort...and every footstrike hurt. Some more than others. And the rocks in the path seemed to be every where my foot landed. I am good except for obliterated thighs..which I don't need to put into motion unless I run downhill...but wow, I needs my feets! I cannot believe I have done this...I feel strong for tomorrow although I am a bit tired of running and heat. I fear the altitude change of over 4000 feet over 52 miles. If only my feet were heatlhy...I don't want to fail at this. My heart is willing, my soul is willing, my desire is willing...please pray that my feet rise to the task. I do want to give a shout out to Kris and Tom for encouraging words and blister care. More of my problem is just bruised pads. We ran by the Colorado River and had nice scenery and wind. Tomorrow the sights are to be outstanding...just need to survive in 20 hours. Please cross your fingers for me. We have been done since 11 a.m. and I have "iced" in the River and rested the feets since...Did I mention that the folks around me are amazing athletes and I am honord to be amongst them. Love to all of you. 143.
Name: Lisa Kedzuf-McGinnis
Report: So thankful I did Athens Big Fork! Yesterday's climbs and even todays steep inclines and declines were difficult. Although it was only 9 miles, it was tough. Especially with my large blister that involves the base of my pointer (not index as I said yesterday - my brain was fried - okay now everyone is sayinng that is the same toe) toe and I just learned it is bruised underneath. It is painful but the goal is to finish. Last night after I posted my calf started hurting pretty bad since I favored the right leg since the left foot has the blister. I used Trameel in the middle of the night when I woke up and realized my calf sleeves were not on and then this morning I used biofreeze and it felt better when I ran. So HTFU and press on! I am acutually about to get a massage :) so hopefully this helps. We had few clouds today and it seemed hotter earlier. It is breezy now but nice to be done early. Jason an I stuck together the entire run today which was so wonderful. Rarely are we side by side in a race but this is more then a race. It is about survival. The La Sal mountains still seem so far away and I cannot believe we will be there tomorrow! I am looking forward to colder weather as we will be at about 8500 ft tomorrow night. We are only at about 4100 right now. Today I saw more lizards then I ever have before. THey dont freak me out when they run just about under my feet anymore. I forgot to mention yesterdy the rattle I saw and heard just ahead of me on the trail. I jumped to the other side and started running faster. Didn't see a snake attached but didnt want to stick around to find out. I tried to get into the Colorado River and it is just to cold for me. I cannot get in past my knees and the rest I just use a wet banadana with river water to rinse off with soap. I think I get the filth award because no one else seems to have a problem getting in. My skin is a little sunburnt and I need to be a bit better about reapplication. I have the worst tan lines I ever have in my life and will not be able to go to the pool the rest of the summer due to how horrifying I look. Jas has like three layers of tan line from different tan lines and has been dubbed 'napolean' (sp? - brain fried) like the ice cream :) We are all hanging out relaxing and having a great time. Tomorrow we start earlier but that is good for less heat- 52 miles, cut off 20 hours. GOD SPEED!!
Name: Shelley Egli
Report: Didn't report yesterday. Had a very tough day! Was not sure if I would make it or not...had to dig myself out of a lot of deep holes. It was beautiful, but very hot,and hilly. Walked a lot, but ran with a few people here and there which helped so much! Could finally see the LaSal Mountains getting closer! They have quite a bit of snow on top of them. At mile 28, I did not think I could run much more. Tried to drink and eat. Was not hydrated enough, but I don't know how I could have drank any more than I did. Once I got to the last 5 miles on the road, I was done. It was on hot asphalt and not much of a breeze. I figured I could walk it in because there were a few hills left. I finally ran into a guy named Jeff, and we walked the last 4 miles in. Could not run another step. I did PR by one hour. Felt wiped, but got in the river. Had Milt's burgers for dinner and a root beer float. Slept well and ran 9 miles today. PR'd by 30 minutes. Feel good. Got a massage today and got in the river a bunch. Looking forward to tomorrow!
Name:Shaun Martin
Report: Well, nothing good to report for today. My race might be over. Last night, I was not able to eat AT ALL! THis morning , I suffered through the 9 miles. I was very weak from having NO food in me since Monday nights dinner, now Wednesday and 70 miles in. After I finished today, I went back to puking and not able to hold anything down. SUCKS!!! Not soar or anything, just stomach and lots of nausea. I waited a while to write this report to see if I would start feeling better. Nope. Melissa and Mav, you might be doing a recovery pick up for me tomorrow. Miss you guys, see you soon. Wish my insides weren't so thrashed, because I thought I was in better shape than last year. Sometimes you can't control everything in this crazy ass sport. Tim, Symond and Theo, don't come up. Not worth the drive in the condition I'm in. See you guys soon.
Name: The Other Sean M
Report: Who woulda thought I would ever win the "Sprint Stage"? Well, I did. My plan today was to run tempo...mission accomplished. 9.3 miles in 1:09 (yes, at this point, that qualifies as tempo), a new stage record. It was a cool course today, nice rocky, rolling terrain to start, a great single track right along the river, then a fast 2 miles to the finish. Today I thought a bit about Ian S. and how fast he would be smokin' this race; I'm just lucky he has WS next week (by the way, Ian, I met your friends Diana and David). Now just resting, drinking nuun, swimming in the river, and b.s.ing with friends. Life is so simple...I love it!
Name: Eugene Trahern
Report: I didnt report in yesterday because it was a puke fest. The heat is kicking my a$$. Yesterday's stage of 39 miles went well for about the first 17, then it was a death march in to the finish. No shade whatsoever. At one point I crawled under a bush to get out of the sun. Missed my target time by about 2 hours. Couldn't eat or drink anything last night, so today's stage started off right were I finished... cramps, dehydration and puking. An easy 9 mile run turned into a 2+ hour walk/jog/walk. The scenery for this stage was very interesting. I have been in camp for 5 hours, and the stomach has not responded yet. I'm still hoping for a miracle at this point, to even start the 52 mile stage tomorrow. The race organization has been great, and the other runners have been fun to be around.
Name:Joel Sylvester
Report: Slowest sprint I've ever done, but that was the plan. Nice, easy relaxing recovery walk/run through 9 miles of mixed terrain. I actually felt quite strong on the hills, but the miles are mounting up and I'm starting to get small uncomfortable blisters on my little toes and the callouses on my heels are becoming tender. My ITB is a lot better, still bad enough that normally I'd take a few days off and stretch, but thats not an option here. And with so much stunning scenary to run through who'd want to rest? A massage yesterday and today has really helped loosen my legs off, just need to keep moving.
Saw many more lizards today, and my first snake, a Gopher Snake, pretty common and not too dangerous. It all helps to distract from the pain I guess, as did standing hip deep in the Colorado River. Damn that was cold. Nothing to bitch about though, the organisation is excellent, food superb, camp sites flat and comfortable, good company and I'm sleeping well. Plus I'm finally over my jet lag.
Tomorrow is the big day, 52 miles and a couple of big hills. We'll be climbing to near the snow line I understand, which suits me just fine. Big day out in the hills - its what I do!
Name:Dave Pearse
Report: Hi to anybody interested back in SA and Ireland! This has been without a doubt one of the best organised, friendliest stage races I've ever done! The scenery is quite spectacular, the campsites beautiful and the organisers can't do enough for us.Now the bad news - it is extremely tough and there were definitely stages during yesterday's 62km stage when we had to dig deep to keep moving forward. Diana had two very bad falls on the technical 1st stage on Monday, gashing her arm badly on the first fall and then fracturing a bone in her hand (suspected as no X-rays here!) on the second fall. Medical advice was to withdraw from the race but I knew better! So our dream is still alive and we had a good "sprint stage" today and are now resting up nicely in camp ahead of the brutal 85km stage tomorrow followed by a 42km final stage on Saturday!
Name: Michael Adams
I had a good run today, it helps that it was only 9 miles. However, I was concerned that after all the cramps yesterday I would be really sore. I ran the first mile to warm-up, then picked up the pace the rest of the way. No lingering affects from yesterdays challenging day. I'm really looking forward to tomorrows long run. It will be a long day, just need to run smart. Hello to all my friends and family. Hey Danielle, looking forward to burgers fries shake. :) See you next week.
Name: Vicky A
Hey guys! Much better today. I enjoyed the run today...and looking forward to the 52 mile day. Love you!
Name: Caroline Soong
Report: I loved today's 9 mile course because it was beautiful and short. I used the rest of the day to relax, hang out in the river, take a nap and eat. I'm pretty much scared for tomorrow's course after listening to a few of the returning runners stories of the course. It sounds like I will be doing alot of hiking tomorrow. That's okay since I loved to hike. Bring on stage 4!
Name: Warren: Hi Honey, Well this is the hardest thing I have every did. Yesterday was very hard. I was shot. Miss you very much. If I can finish tomarrow 52 mile day all up hill. i should be ok. Call you win I can. Love you very much.
Tom Ripley / Chris Ralph:
Day 2 was too hot for both of us. We did not want to over extend so early in the week so dropped at 18 miles. Day 3 was a short 9 mile day that we ran well and finished in 2:20 hours. We both are feeling well right now and plan on trying the long stage tomorrow to see how the heat effects us. TomR
Chris Ralph writes:
Hi Harry and Zenna Chairo having a wonderful time. I miss you all lots and cant wait to watch law and order.
Love Sweetie
Stage 2
Name: The Other Sean M
Report: Some days are good, some are bad - today was good. It was hot, mid-to-upper 90s. The paved sections were even hotter. The course was very Sean-friendly, so I only had to walk once today for about 5 min. up a steep climb; other than that my legs just kept turning along. I thought about friends and family a lot. Bronco got me to take way more salt than normal, and that was huge. Ashley got me to buy the Honey Stinger chews, and those go down so easily. With a little over 7 to go, I thought of family because that's how far Bloomsday is. Mindy, Brittany, Amy, and Nate got me in the last 3.5 (their lunch loop). The Colorado River felt soooooo good when I finished. Thanks everyone for thinking of me. Tomorrow's the 10-mile sprint stage.
Name: Shaun M.
Report: Holy crap! Wasted today! Didn't run very well at all, actually really bad. About 24 miles into it, it started cramping. Hot Today. I thought I was hydrating well and was taking my E-caps when I needed them. Still cramped up at mile 24 and had to slow WAY down after that. It took me a LOOOOOOG time the last 15 miles. I didn't run the stage very well last year, but this year was even worst, 42 minutes SLOWER. Tough to deal with right now. Afterward, I was puking like a mo-fo. I finished 3 hours ago and I'm still cramping. CRAZY.gonna take a while to recover, but I have faith. Only thinking of Melissa and Mav got me through. Good talking to you this morning Melissa, and Mav - say Da Da, rummm rummm. Hope tomorrow is better. Me and the other Sean (sponsored by Monttrail) are now tied up at 8hrs 43min total. NUTS!
Name: Rob Cain
Report: Interesting day. It was hot, got hotter and we had a nice dehydrating wind that accompanied us most of the trip. taste. Lots of people still out in the heat. Feel for them. Tom, who I ran with yesterday didn't have his electrolytes figured yesterday. Today, he had it nailed, ran strong and finished without cramping. Way to go Tom. I finished with Mike and we really needed each other to get to the finish line. His stomach was bothering him so a bit of ginger out of the pack helped him. I'm headng to the Colorado River to wash of. Word has it it is very cold. Doubt I'll be staying in for long. Good day but the 50 miler looms on Thursday...
Name: Kyle Baldwin
Really a tough day...started out nice, but got really hot. Ran a little slower than last year. Started off okay, got off trail a little and had to backtrack--Wasted a lot of energy. Hydration was really an issue today. I miss you guys.
Name: Thomas Olmstead
Report: Today was a hot one, but started off pretty well. Kyle and I took a wrong turn nearly 6 miles in, but we were able to recover as the day went on. Salt tablets and gel packs helped out a great deal in the heat and as much as I sweat. Overall, good day and beautiful terrain.
Name: Caroline Soong
Report: Today was a relatively good consistent day. I tried to keep the same 'slow' pace throught the day. I knew it was going to be hot with lots of long straight stretches so mentally I tried to be prepared for it. The hot weather made it hard to stomach food but I think I did okay with hydration and salt caps. I finished happy knowing that a cold river was awaiting.
Name: Jeff Owsley
Report: It's amazing what 39 miles does to one's body, especially in that kind of heat.Todya was officially my first ultra - broke my PR for distance by 12 miles. The last 10 were extremely difficult. It was all I could do to finish the last 5 with a fast walk and a mile from the finish, my stomach expelled it's contents, which was only water. I feel badly for my good friend David Clemmer whose inflamed back caused breathing problems and he had to quite - it waqs a wise decision. You'll get it next time David - Best Ultra Marathon Running Buddies!
Name:Jason McGinnis
Report: Today was intense, tough, and the biggest physical test I've been through to date. The first day we ran in Colorado and today we crossed over into Utah. We arrived (atleast I think) in the high desert today. Yesterday was a treat and today was desolate, hot and lonely. There were absolutely no clouds to be found the entire day. We started the day running through canons between very high mesas and just like yesterday I found it very hard to run and not stop and take in the incredible surroundings. We could see the La Sal Mountains off in the distance which is the mountain range we have to cross on day 4. They looked so menacing and were so far away. THe peaks of these small mountains even had snow on them. Crazy huh. I battled dehydration all day. I couldn't pee at 17.5 miles. All that came out was brown sludge and it burned like a furnace. I spent the next 4 miles chugging water and walking. I eventually had to fight not puking. I was putting so much water in my system that I got a very bad stomach ache. I held back the puke because I knew if I blew chunks I would be in seriously bad shape. On a side note, in my opinion this has got to be the hardest 40 run in the USA. We only had 2 aid stations the entire day. We had 2 yesterday and we only ran 20 miles. It was insane. I guess thats why this race is considered one of the toughest footraces in the country. I have to give a shout out to my homegirl Tatur Cakes (Dana Childress) for making the best anti-chafing cream ever (aka: Sac-so-soft). I had to blow a deuce twice today on the trail and I was left with minimal residue near Uranus. Sorry so graphic, but it has been a very long and totally brutal day. The last 22 miles we ran in a totally lifeless desert except for all the lizards which continually mocked me blowing past me at a stunning pace. The last 5 miles were on road. It hurt bad. 2.5 almost all uphill and then 2.5 almost all downhill. My legs are blown but I spent a good amount of time in the Colorado River after I finished and I feel a bit rejuvenated. Thanks for all the support! Mad Love to you all. Lastly I passed 3 racers on the biggest climb of the day (which was an absolute bear, very steep and very long). I blew past these cats like it was nothing. Thanks BodyPump. It wasn't as bad as a regular squat track. =)
Name: Lisa Kedzuf-McGinnis
Report: I really do not know if I slept last night or now. If I did, I woke up about a hundred times. When I got up at 1230 am to pee the sky was absolutely amazing. Jason said he thought he saw the Milky Way. I guess I need new contacts. Today's start was still rough with the stomach issues but I am over it now! It was very warm today but I am proud of my finish 9:52. I did what Kurt told me to: RMF Relentlessly Move Forward (or run m*&$#% f@#%*#) and it paid off. It was hot and not a cloud in the sky. I could see the La Sal Mountains for most of the run and cannot believe we will summit part of them in just two days. They still seem so far away. For most of today's run I was more alone. No way I could keep up with Grace! Iliana kept me company on the mountain bike for awhile. Once I thought about grabbing that bike but manuvering the bike over some of those rocks would have been extremely difficult as well as walking it up those steep or long hills. I have a large blister on my left foot that is right next to my left index toe that is hurting badly. The doctor on staff here Jeremy is going to take care of it tonight along with the four others on my other foot that are not bothering me. About 6 miles? from the finish we hit pavement and it hurt bad. After running on dirt, rocks, and sand all day, pavement at the end of 39 miles was torture. Did anyone read my allergies? It said pavement!! Had a phone signal last night and got to talk to my mom and my dad which was a pick me up. Sad I could not get ahold of Lesli since I am worried about my dogs. I know Sandy and Jim have control of the cats. Thought alot about my fellow TATURs today, especially TZ who showed me the killer hill at Turkey Mountain, Randy who ran the entire 50 miler at Heartland, Roman for telling me to 'walk with a purpose', especially up the hills, TATUR cakes for the Sweetcheeks, and Coach Kathy for the Icebreaker cami idea under my sports bra; you have saved me from some killer chaffing, and countless others I cannot think of right now because my feet hurt and my brain is fried. Other then my feet, I feel pretty good and stoked about our short run tomorrow and chance to continue to get to know the rest of the group a little better. I still cannot express how awesome this race is and how experienced the entire crew is!
Name: K2
Well just finished day 2!! It has been a wonderfully brutal 2 days. Day 1 was vertical climb after vertical climb. This was the most technical section of the week. It was rocky climb after rocky climb. I felt like a damn billy goat. It was a wonderful finish, the Aid Stations were wonderful. The RATS staff, including my wife Paula (volunteer) were so helpful. We had a great dinner to get us ready for Day 2. Day 2 was not as technical as Day 1, but a lot of climbs with a 400' veritcal climb. I felt good until the last hour, and that is when we hit the pavement. The heat from the pavement blistered a lot of feet and slowed a lot of paces. We took a wonderful bath in the icy Colorado River, had my Recoverite and IsaLean Shake and am heading to the dinner meal. I will update again in detail on my Blog. K2
Name: Vicky A
I had a long hard day. Thought about you, Katie, when I tell you you can make it during a run, stick with and you'll make it. well honey it was one of those days for me. I told stories about you today, Tyler and they made me smilr
e...and Chris it was tough today I got my --- handed to me but I finished.
Name: Michael Adams
Today was a pretty rough day for me. Felt great through mile 23, then starting cramping up. My gaol was to finish in under 7 hours and I was able to complete in 6:30. I'm so glad tomorrow is a short day. Wanted to say hello to all my friends, family and of course my number 1 fan, my daughter Danielle (love ya, BFS)
Name: Joel Sylvester
Ouch. ITB flaired up at 5 miles, and took 25 miles to loosen off, or possibly for everything else to tighten up so I was in balance again. It was a long, hot day, especially the sections on the tarmac where I felt like I was being cooked from all directions. Got my water/salt plan to be a lot more effective, no bloating today and lots of pit stops. Standing in the Colorado River and getting a massage seems to loosened my legs off a little, but tomorrow, though only 9 miles, is going to be interesting. The organisation here is superb, they are really looking after us. Hi to all the ETs who are watching in, hi to all the deads and most of all hi to my family - I'm missing you all, be sure to tell all your friends at school how mad your father is. Got to go eat more, then put my tent up.
Name: Jane Herzog
Day 2 of the bike. Felt good and had fun, especially after the brutal first day! Still am too chicken to ever make a real mountain biker!
Name: Susan Haag -
Day 2 is in the books...and I am so glad. I was very trepidatious going into today. Last nite was the first day in the tent since I was a daycamper in about 2nd grade. All is all, it wasn't too bad. I was definitely tired and my $137 neo air was not quite a mattress, but I did sleep. We all headed to bed about 930, and by petzl lite, I put my finishing touches on after brushing my teeth outside with a water bottle. We had breakfast this am, but I was not hungry, just knew I needed to eat, so I had oatmeal, craisens and banana. My legs were not too bad off when we started out running about 730. It was some good downhills but then the climbs started. We were to go about 38.8 miles. The scenery was again breathtaking and I enjoyed looking around as I climbed. I would try to run the downhills and wanted to get as much mileage in the bank as I could. We had 12.5 hours to finish and I was told I just needed to do 3 miles per hour. I did not know how much I could run so I worked pretty hard til about 15...then I think I made mistake for day 2...by the way, I put my vitamins in my bag and ran with them...ooops. But I walked w/2 other athletes cuz one was suffering. My feet pads were bothering me altho I had lubed up with vaseline. I think this really made them hurt and prolly started blisters. After the aid station, I stopped twice on the trail to use my safety pin in my race number to do each foot, separately. We had a section of black top that destroyed my feet (4 miles long), but we headed into trails that had a snowcapped mountain in the distance. And there was so many different types of scenery. I had to walk the last 10-13 miles and lots of it was on black top again...I was in lots of pain as I came in, around 10:12. I was happy, as I had tightened my shoelaces to keep the foot pads from further blistering...however, I was really really really ready to be in. And I fear I may have really affected my feet badly...tomorrow is only 9 miles and we have a 4 hour cut off. I just need to protect my feet. We had Milt's hamburgers for dinner, they are a famous eatery in Moab. Delicious bison burgers...We are about to have our nightly meeting...o, forgot to mention, we are camped on the colorado river. we went over there after the run to submerge our legs in the freezing cold water. I even washed my hair....EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE! You all cannot believe the amazing scenery here. I opted not to take pix today as I feared the cutoff...but there were sights I hated not to capture...O, by the way, saw lots of lizards running out into the path and then running away. FUNNY!!! they are biggens! I love you all and (sorry - corrupted file!)...
Desert RATS Stage 1 - 6/14/10
Name: Shaun Martin
Report: Day one done. Went great. Finished with a new satge record at 2hrs 34mins 19sec. Felt much better than last year on this stage. This year, I'm gonna base everything on FEELING, not time or pace. More people this year, so its cool to meet fun people that are a little bit de'giss like me. LOL. Big up to all my runners back home, I run with you all in my heart and mind. All the Wings people, I'm keeping my wings on and hoping to fly. Check in tomorrow to see how the 40 mile day goes.
Name:The Other Sean M (Meissner)
Report:I started off with Shaun, chatting a bit on the first 1/2 mile on road. Then we made the rt turn onto Kokopelli's Trail proper, and he was gone. This is a ruggedly beautiful area! I had an average day; not great, but since it was relatively cool (mid-to-upper 70s), you'll be happy to know I didn't puke, so I consider that a victory. Mike was on my butt most of the day, so he kept me honest. Montrail's Rogue Racer is an awesome shoe on this terrain. Looking forward to tomorrow's 40!
Name: Michael Adams
Report:Awesome day! It was one of the most beautiful trails I have ran on in quite a while. Absolutely gorgeous views while running along the rim overlooking the Colorado river. It was hard to keep my eyes on the trail. I ran really smart at the start keeping my pace consistant without pushing the pace. My goal was to run under 3 hours, I was able to finish in 2:53. Good enough for 3rd overall. Looking forward to the 40-mile run tomorrow. Just want to say hello to my family, all my TATUR, friends, and of course my daughter Danielle (BFS).
Name:Rob Cain
Report:Beautiful day of running. Managed to stop and take a few pictures of the Colorado River and the trail alongside. The trail wasn't the decomposed granite I'm use to but it was runnable. The three runners ahead of me took off from the start. Besides being fast,they're the classic nice guys, one of the main reasons I do this sport. Weather was not nearly as hot as I was expecting, but I think heat is on the way. Looking forward to a meal and a message. 40 miles awaits us tomorrow!
Name: Fatboy Trahern
Report: I survived the first day. Doubled my mileage for the month already from 20 to 40. Plan on doubling it again tomorrow. Hopefully by the end of the week I will be in shape. Wait, round is a shape, so I'm good already. All joking aside, this was a great day of running. Beautiful scenery, especially running along the cliffs. Lots of flat rocks to run on. I ran most of the first 6 miles with Kyle, then had a pack issue at the first aid station and spent the next few miles trying to catch him. Then we ran together from about mile 10 to the finish. Now its time to relax, refuel and enjoy the rest of the day off!
Name:Thomas Olmstead
Report: The day started off in a bus across the Moab ending in Grand Junction. It was a great day to run with a cool breeze, sun, and good people. Thrilled to be with these guys and looking forward to the next couple days. I'm excited to talk to my nephews, TT and Teo, after I complete the race.
Name: Caroline Soong
Report: I met a few new runners and ran together to the first aid station. We chatted away, enjoyed the beauty of the scenary and the weather. For those of you back home in Boulder wondering if I did my typical thing of getting lost and injurying myself...yes to both of those. I had gotten off trail only for a bit before realizing that it was not the right trail. While turning around an angry tree attacked my leg and drew some blood, oh well nothing new. Got back on trail and enjoyed the rest of the run. Looking forward to tomorrow.
Name:Shelley Egli
Report: Well I finished today! It was amazing again! Finished almost an hour and a half better than last year...did not take any pictures which helped! Already have met some great people and seen all the people who have returned from last year. Did not get lost thank goodness. Miss everyone! Going to refuel and relax for the big day tomorrow!
Name: Jason McGinnis
Report: Wow. We started today on single track that ran along the rim of some amazing bluffs that were freakin' gorgeous. We followed the Colorado River for half of the day. It was all so incredible. The first 14 miles was the toughest 14 I've ever run. Steep rocky decents and long steep climbs. This is the most beautiful place I've ever ran. I wish I could share this experience with everyone. Right now my legs are screaming. I can feel the lactic acid pooling in my legs. I think the altitude is definitely making this more difficult. My face is a salty mess. I started to cramp today with about 3 miles to go. For those that know of my injury, my foot held up really well. I'm smilin' because if my foot cooperates I know I can finish. I'm very happy to be sitting. This week is going to be horrible and amazing at the same time. I saw the most beautiful lizard today too. The race director and race staff seem awesome. So far they are taking really good care of us. If you are praying for Lisa and I...Thanks!
Name:Vicky Arterburn
What fantastic run! Chris thanks for your support, I love you! Katie and Tyler I I love you so much and miss you. It was tough today but I did it and I am happy wwith that. Thank you for the well wishes and texts.I finished to day with time inthe bank!Lovin life.
Name: Michael Cowart
The landscape was full of stunning vistas today... Each time I tried to enjoy them I risked falling on my face, however. Lots of vertical... the ups were not so bad... I am a poor descender at best especially on the technical sections. I did finish without incident... feeling okay and ready to go again tomorrow.
Name Kurt The Drunken Badger Egli
Stage 1 in the books! Still on of the hardest 20 miles I have ever run but what a difference a year makes...The collarbone held up! Sore but good HUGE thanks to Doc Stafford and his crew...you guys are simply the best. Thank you for getting me to the finish line...I ran 40-45 min faster than last year...with MUCH less stress...painful but beautiful just as it should be. Proud of the whole gang even the (*%$ Limey :)
Lesson learned today...the body will always follow the brain...
Thanks to all my friends for the support you have given us this year. You make me a wealthy man.
Name: Joel Sylvester
So what was that, about four and a half hours for 20 miles? I set out to go slow and succeeded - but all the better to enjoy the wonderful scenery. About a mile or so from the finish the La Sal mountains loomed into view, almost 3 days and around 100 miles away. The day went pretty well, not as well as I'd hoped but a lot better than I feared. Cloud helped keep the temperature reasonable though it still feels hot. Its going to get worse. Legs feel OK, feet are in good shape just need to get cleaned up, pitch my tent and get some food and rest.
Love to all those back at home, missing you all. The lucky eyeball is along for the ride.
Name: Jeff Owsley
Wow, was that beautiful! And wow, am I tired! Lots of up and down and technical - muscles hurt that I didn't know I had. Bunch of wonderful people here - I am thankful to be a part of it (thanks David and Wendy)! We'll see what the ol' body will do after 39 tomorrow - it's fun to learn about going long!
Name:Mark McKinney
We got the warm-up twenty miler done! Tomorrow will be a real test to see if pacing today was on target. Elaina and I are still friends, tomorrow we'll have about 10 hours to discuss more important things.
c
Name: Lisa Kedzuf-McGinnis
Stage one (~20 miles) was even more beautiful then I could have ever imagined. The cloud cover and mild temperatures could not have made this day more perfect. Hot sure what the high was yet but I never got too hot. A few lizzards crossed my path. I think that is good luck :) Today's terrian was more difficult then the Turkey and TATURs 50k in parts but more then half was runnable. I think my time of 5 hours is respectable. There were a few times when the trail was close to the cliff that I was a bit scared but knew I was in God's hands. I had several stomach cramps that stopped me dead in my tracks toward the end but that is getting better, likely nerves. My new race partner that I met about mile 8?, Grace, stuck with me thru it all. Overall, I feel pretty good. I only got mad once when I left my camera at the first aid station climbed up the next large climb, realized it would be a good picture, realized I had no camera, and ran back down to get it. Then I had to climb back up again. Typical me! The race crew here is amazing. Seeing Eugene on top of the rock cheering us on was motivating and made me smile. Still trying to get use to Glenn with the camera. We are setting up camp now and I am looking forward to dinner. I miss home, especially my kids (Malibu, Raley, Bluz, Bacardi, and Quah) but know that this is going to be an amazing week that I will remember forever and I will make friends that will last a lifetime. Now I need to hydrate. My pee is not a good color :( Thanks everyone back home for your love, support and prayers.
Name: Susan Haag
Report: O my gosh...just finished and i am so beat. The beauty here is unbelievable. HOWEVER, I have been more than humbled. Usual Susan start - new bladder still had mouthpiece wrapper on it, then when I tried to suck water out, nothing came out...and b/c I had taken some fotos at the start and gone to the bathroom, I was already last man there. So my heart rate is high and off we go, up a mountain. Every one took off like speed demons and I quickly found myself at the back...I walked the hills and ran the downhills. I kept stopping to take fotos for all of you and was able to stay with others so that parts of the trails that were kinda sketchy as far as where to go next (as we needed to know) were easier to see...everyone was so far ahead of me and it was fun for a while watching them. I was impressed with how much I was able to run and felt proud of myself. BUT when I got to the first aid station, I may have handicapped myself... in the hubbub, i forgot to add water to my camelbak and got most of the way of the next mountain before I realized it. I then made a bad decision and kept running rather than double back. And I only ate one gu. Therefore, we all know what happened. YES. I ran out of water about 4 or so miles and started getting sickly fairly quick and the pace fell way off, then was a walk, then a sad walk. I had to sit down about 4 times to get right with the world. I ate half a piece of pizza that I carried and felt a bit better. One man was so kind and gave me some of his water and I felt better. Of course this was the part of the course that took us way up rocky mountain and it was really hard. I made it to the aid station and sat for a bit and drank and ate. Felt much better. Off for last 6.2 miles and after a stressful 5 minutes trying to figure out if I took the right turn, I decided walking and taking it easy was better. Then a nice mountain bike woman came out and ran - or should i say walked - me in. to applause. DONE. now for tomorrow...after dinner and recovery ...THANKS TO ALL OF YOU. TOMORROW WILL BE 40 MILES AND PROBABLY MUCH HARDER, SINCE TODAY WAS ONLY HALF THAT DISTANCE...I MISS YOU AND WISH YOU WERE HERE WITH ME...CAMPING ON THE KOKOPELLI TRAIL!!! 143.
Name: Tom Ripley / Chris Ralph
Tom 5:17 Chris 5:54 Both of us did much better then last year. Weather was good but hot at times. Feeling good after eating and sitting around for awhile. Tommorrow is 40 miles and tough. This is a beautiful part of the country.
TomR
David E. Clemmer
Stage One: I was stunned by the beauty of the Colorado river. Who knew there was such a beautiful canyon just
south of I70? The trail was fun. I OK for the first six and last six miles. But, someone needs to clear the rocks
off of the path in the middle six. I loved it that the finishers cheered for stragglers like me.