Running on All Fours

"You can fly, if you only believe" - or get a funky camera angle

If you follow my blog [Scott if your reading - that's you] you know that I have been struggling heading into the Mesquite Canyon 50k.  At Coldwater Rumble 31k I laid down and took a nap with a mile to go.  At San Tan 25k I had major bowl issues which had me in and out of the bathroom all race.  At Grandpa Jim’s 50k, I arrived late and started 10 minutes behind everyone.  Then, in the first 5 miles I took a nasty spill down Echo Canyon, and banged my knee pretty good. I ended up finishing the race in well over 7 hours.  Going back even farther to the Cave Creek Thriller the first race of the DRT series I DNF’d at mile 24 after twisting my knee.  At the Javelina Jundred I melted down around mile 75 and basically walked a marathon to finish.  Then,  I was so physically wiped after the that I wasn’t able to make the start to either the Pass Mountain or Mcdowell Mountian Frenzy.

This isn’t the resume of someone who is going to run well on an extremely difficult and rugged Mesquite Canyon 50k course; its the obituary of the guy who takes a wrong turn falls off a cliff.  I imagine at the funeral everyone would be talking about, “How didn’t he see this coming? We sure did!”

Simple;  I’m a stubborn son of a bitch (sorry mom) with a deep and unwavering belief that I can do this!  Reality, logic, reason be damned.

In addition to my somewhat irrational and certainly unsubstantiated belief that I can be successful in an ultra (as in actually finish one); I train to damn hard to be this bad.  Just as my belief in myself never wavered, neither has my dedication to my training.  Even in those dismal weeks following the Javelina, I got myself to the gym to bike, swim or lift when I was unable to run.

When I started this endeavor last July, I declared myself to be the Aspiring Ultra runner – “a person who longs, aims, or seeks ambitiously to become an ultra runner”. My quest remains as true to my heart today as it did when I made that declaration.
However the question remains, can I actually do it….. or more specifically would I find a way to survive the grueling Mesquite Canyon 50k or would my reach once again exceed my grasp….

The Course: The Mesquite Canyon 50k is final and championship Race of the Aravaipa Desert Runner Trail Series (DRT). The race takes place on one of the most challenging 50k courses you will find.  The course takes place on a rugged single track trail through the White Tank Mountains in Waddell, AZ and incorporates all the elements of a great trail race; challenging climbs, rocky descents, miles of beautiful single track and breathe taking views at every turn.  In addition to an extremely rugged and challenging course,  the race draws some of the best ultra runners from around the state (and beyond) giving the race a real championship feel.

In the weeks leading up to the race I had a chance to preview the course a few times.  All the hype about the difficulty of course lived up to the billing.  The climb out of Black Canyon and the section through Ford Canyon stood out as particular tough and both would require a mix of running, hiking, and climbing for me to navigate them successfully.

Now don’t get the wrong idea, the course is hard and some sections might be to difficult if not impossible to run (unless your the president of the National Parkour Trail Runner’s Association or Mecca Cradel);  the majority of the course is runnable.

(My new training method for Zane Grey – Watch out!)

Yet despite its runnability, after my three preview runs, I came to the conclusion that averaging 10 minute miles was going to be next to impossible.  I was clocking somewhere in the high 11′s to low 12′s for my average pace.

I checked last year’s results to see if it was even possible to run in the 10′s. Michael Carson last years DRT Ultra Series champion won in 4:54:12 which is about 9:28 pace. Legendary trail runner Ian Torrance crossed the line second in 5:05:10. So, yes, if you are an ultra stud, it can be done but for most of us mortals this might be out of reach (The course record is held by Jason Griffiths in 4:01:22 in 2010 but this must have been before then banned Hang Gliders).

The Strategy

Coach Phantom and I sat down the night before the race to go over the race plan for the last time.  I would be running without crew support so we decided to use the drop bag at Black Canyon Aid Station.  Coach told me to run the first half of the race with two hand held water bottles and switch to my hydration pack which we packed in the drop bag.  She wanted my hands free for the second half of the race, particularly on the climb out of Black Canyon and later through Ford Canyon. In addition to my hydration pack I  stashed some additional food so I could run a little lighter.

As far as running the race, Coach Phantom wanted me to keep things simple and run an even effort from start to finish.  There would be some real studs in the field and getting caught up in that initial pace would only lead to disaster down the trail.   So far I haven’t been able to put together a race where I maintain a solid effort from start to finish.  If I wanted to survive this course I was going to have to find a way to do just that.

The Night Before

Nothing gets me ready for a race like a movie, so Atreyu and I went out to catch the 10:40pm showing of “John Carter”.  Some might think this is silly but I rarely fall asleep before 1:00 am. If I am going to be up anyway, I’d rather do find do something fun rather then dwell on the race the next day.

Race Day:

After missing the bus to the start of my last 50k,  I arrived a good hour and a half before the race to give myself plenty of time to check-in, and warm-up (Basically I got my race number and took a 45 minute nap in my car).

This was going to be a long day so Ruchi, and Atreyu decided it would be better to meet me towards the end of the race, rather then sitting around waiting for me to finish. I estimated it would take me somewhere between 5  1/2 to 6 hours (or longer) depending on how things went.  Coach Phantom and my training partner Sterling would have to sit this one out as two dogs and a baby are just to much for Ruchi to handle alone.  Though I could tell by there wagging tails they would be cheering me on from home.

The Race – Start to Waddell Aid Station (2.4 miles)

The sun was rising over the White Tank mountains as we gathered at the start.  The temperatures were still cool but it was going to warm up soon.  Nick Coury gave us the last minute instructions and counted us down to the start.  He gave the word we were off…

A group consisting of some of the top runners in the field led us out and led us out fast.  I was content going out at a comfortable pace.  The first section of the race was relatively flat but a hill loomed just after the first aid station about 2.5 miles into the race. The plan was to start slow and build momentum heading into the Hill.

As we headed-out,  I notice a runner ahead of me struggling with his hydration pack.  He ask for my help and I did my best to zip it closed while carrying two hand held water bottles.  I struggled with it for what seemed like forever before I finally got it closed.  He thanked me for the help and I apologize for taking so long to get the darn thing closed.

Shortly after the group I was running with hit the first aid station.  All the other runners passed through without pausing but I had already decided to stop and get some water.  There would be a 9 mile stretch between aid stations heading down from the Mesquite Aid Station down into Black Canyon. Coach “Made No Bones about it” and wanted me to drink at the aid stations early and save the water I was carrying for that section of the course.

After getting my mandatory drink, I head off onto the trail and quickly caught back up to the pack.

Waddell Aid Station to Mesquite Aid Station (1.8 miles)

As we approach the first major climb of the race I could see the leaders bolting away from the pack and a stream of runners trailing behind.  I estimate there are about 20 people ahead of me as I started the ascent.

The climb is a tough one but one I am able to run without walking.  Many of the runners ahead of me begin to power hike the steeper sections and I quickly made-up ground.

I made steady progress on the climb, and by the time I crested the top; I was alone.  I left the chase group behind but the lead group was still well ahead of me.  In fact, I could only see two of the five or six runners I estimate to be ahead of me and they were a long ways off.

It was tempting to chase but I held back.  Its a long race and the difficult sections were yet to come.

Mesquite Aid Station to Black Canyon (9.1 miles)

I arrived at the Mesquite Aid Station alone.  I stopped for water and quickly drank a few cups before heading back out on the trail.  I thanked the volunteers and took a quick scan of the area. I couldn’t see the runner’s ahead of me nor anyone behind me.  I was completely in “no-man’s land”.

As I head out I know the climb down Black Canyon is going to be a difficult one.  Its steep and its technical.  Its also one of the longest stretches between aid stations on the course but I am prepared as both my handhelds are almost completely full.

As I started back onto the trail, I found myself mesmerized by the beauty of the White Tank Mountains.  The trail here is a smoother and the climbing was over (for now).  The trail flattened out into a soft single track with views of the Valley of the Sun that go on for as far as the eye can see.

Running this section was awesome and I really felt like I could open my stride up and begin moving.  I was tempted to look at my watch to see exactly how fast but I refrained as Coach continues to stress that I develop a better feel for my effort level at this distance without the use of GPS.

Running the first half of this section was a dream, but once the trail begins to descent into Black Canyon it becomes a technical nightmare.  For the last few miles I really felt like I was flying, but when hit the technical down hill,  I felt like I was running in slow motion.  My gut reaction is to push the pace but I hold back because I have learned I would not be making up much time and a single bad step would end my race right there.  I  shorten my stride and try to keep my weight over my feet.  I do my best to stay relaxed and run as smoothly as possible though I’m sure I look like a wild arm swinging, leg pumping mess to anyone unluckily enough to be watching.

I once thought of myself as a decent technical runner but since my foot surgery last January, I don’t have the strength, flexibility and (maybe most importantly) the trust I used to have in my left foot.  I have spend the last few months really working to rehab it and although progress has been limited; there has at least been some progress.

This round, I managed the rough section without incident. The trail smoothed out at the bottom of the hill.  I open my stride a little and move quickly towards the next aid station.

Runners from the 30k race begin passing in the opposite direction and I wish them luck.  I soon realize that mixed in among the 30k runners were the leaders of the 50k race.  They made the turn were already heading back up Black Canyon.  The only familiar face among the leaders was Michael Carson.  The rest I mostly know by reputation; Eric Bohn, Boone Ebel, and James Willis.  There is also a female runner with them (Kerrie Bruxvoort) whom I did not know.  All the leaders looked comfortable and strong. At this point,  It could be anyone’s race.  For a second I regret not going out faster because I know I will miss out on how things will play-out up-front.

After a long flat stretch that seemed to last forever, I reach the Black Canyon Aid Station.

Black Canyon to Mesquite (9.3 miles)

So far Phantom’s plan has worked to perfection.  My two handhelds got me through the long 9 mile stretch with a water to spare.  I grab my hydration pack, take a last swig from my water bottles and throw them in the drop bag.  I grab some food and am ready to start back on the trail with almost no delay….. Except…

When I backed my drop bag, I had cleverly devised a way to thread the wires of my mp3′s headphones so I could throw on my hydration pack without them becoming tangled.  However of the two of us, my headphones are clearly the more clever as they thwarted my plan and found a way to wrap themselves around the straps of my pack.

I tried to free them from the straps while the hydration pack was on with no success.  I then attempted to take the pack off and only to realize that the headphones are tangled in such a way that I cant’ get the stupid back off.  My mp3 player which was once attached to my pack is now dangling by the headphone wires just out of my reach so I can’t even unplug them to free myself.

I started swaying my shoulders in an attempt to swing my MP3 player into reach so I can grab it with my hands (thank goodness I didn’t have my handhelds still on).  After dancing the hokey poky, I managed to snare the mp3 player and unplug my earphones.  I unwrapped them enough to remove my pack and then finish untangling them from the straps.

The notion of just throwing the mp3 and the wires in my drop bag and leaving them behind crossed my mind but I decided the music would be a good distraction from the pain that awaited me up Black Canyon and beyond.

I begin the process over again -hydration pack, mp3 player, headphones- and this time I am ready to go.   I tell the aid station volunteers that, “I am the Captain Jack Sparrow of Ultra Running.”

As I head up Black Canyon, I hear one of them say, “That has to be the worst Ultra Runner I have ever seen.”

[OK, OK, that last part about the Jack Sparrow and worst ultra runner only happened in my mind.]

What really happened was I thanked the aid station volunteers without making eye contact and ran away completely embarrassed.  I like the in my head version better.

The climb out of Black Canyon is a hard one.  Some sections were just to steep and rocky for me to maintain a run, and I moved into a power hike.  Both hands were free and I used them to help me climb the steeper sections.  I made sure not to get caught in a pure hiking mode as there are sections between the difficult climbs that I could run (well maybe more like a jog at a snail’s pace).

Although the 50k leaders had left me far behind by this point, there were plenty of 30k runners in this section to keep me company on the long climb.

One of my favorite things about trail running has nothing to do with the trails themselves.  Its the people.  Even on the narrow, steep, rocky, Black Canyon trail with people from the 30k climbing and runners from the 50k descending everyone was polite, supportive and encouraging.  People stopped to make room for passing runners and wished them luck.

I’m not sure if its trail running that brings out the best in people or if the best people are drawn to trail running, but its hard to find a more positive, supportive and encouraging atmosphere then a trail race.

As I was nearing the top of the last major hill out of Black Canyon, I heard a voice call my name.  I looked over and saw a person in a red shirt, wearing a 30k race number.  He was looking right at me and said my name again; I have no idea who he is…

You know that moment of panic when someone knows you and you should probably know them.  Your mind searches wildly for answers while your mouth tries to keep them distracted so they don’t realize you don’t recognize or worse don’t remember meeting them.

Then he said it, “Your Alex Kaine right,  I read your blog”

My mind changed from, “I am so sorry,  How do we know each other?” to “OMG!!  Someone actually reads my blog!!  Even my friends and wife only pretend to read this crap.  I LOVE YOU!!”

Of course I tried to play it cool, like this happens all the time.  Act like you been there and all that.   I introduced myself and learned that his name is Scott.  He complimented me on my blog but also noted that its been a while since my last update (Writing race reports in a timely manner = epic fail).

I promised him that I’ll get a Mesquite Canyon race report out after the race as soon as I can walk again.   As of this point, its been two and a half weeks since the race and my report still isn’t done.  And yes I am walking again (though I just injured myself on a run a few days ago).  Scott this report is for you, thanks for taking the time to read my blog!!

After finishing the climb and meeting Scott I have a little renewed energy.  I switched out of my granny climbing gear and start to run again.  I keep my effort reigned-in but not as much as I had earlier in the race.  I could see 30k runners ahead of me and managed to reel a few of them before the next aid station where the 50k course splits from the 30k and heads into the dreaded Ford Canyon.

Mesquite to Ford Canyon Aid Station (5.6 miles)

When I reach the Mesquite Canyon aid station for the second time,  I made sure to drink plenty of fluids.  I already used about half of my water in my hydration pack and there was well over 5 miles until the next aid station through the courses most difficult section; Ford Canyon.

I considered taking off my pack and filling it here.  The temperature was rising and I estimated that half a bladder would be just enough to carry me through to the next aid station.  Basically, I’d be okay on fluids as long as nothing went wrong; a missed turn, a fall or simply needing a break.  If that was the case I’d probable be out of water, and dehydrated before the next aid station.

Going into the race,  Phantom and I estimated that the hydration pack along with the aid stations should provide enough water to carry me through without refilling unless the weather was extremely hot in which case I would simply adjust the plan and restock my hydration pack before entering Ford Canyon.  I weighed my options, understood the risk but decided to continue without refilling.

Ford Canyon runs through a long, sandy wash broken up by large rocks and boulders.  It is home to an abandoned damn.  The trail here is not defined, its simply a matter of picking what you hope is the best path through, around, and over large boulders and down rocky cliffs.

I found having my hands free climbing up Black Canyon was helpful, but having my hands free through Ford Canyon kept me from breaking my neck.

I hit the sandy sections running,  doing my best to maintain a steady pace. When I came upon a boulder, I’d climb down or over and then immediately start running again until I hit the next obstacle.  I expected the climbing to be tiring (and it was) but I was surprised by how much deep sand of the wash sapped the strength from my legs.  By the time I was halfway through the Canyon, I found myself looking forward to the scrambling sections to give my legs a break.

Eventually the trail led out of the wash and down a narrow, rocky trail similiar to the descent of Black Canyon.  My shoes were filled with small rocks and sand so I stopped to empty them out.  As I pondered investing in some gaiters, my leg seized as I lifted my left foot to take off my shoe.  I fell over instantly and laid there for a few seconds, writhing in pain.  Eventually the pain subsided and I managed to get my shoe off and empty it of the pebbles.

I look at my right shoe.  Surely this won’t happen again when I try you off….  “Ahhhh damn!!!”

Yeah, it did.

I look up to see two horrified hikers, making there way up Ford Canyon.   I wave to them and let them know I am okay and my yelling was just me being overly dramatic.

There response was interesting, “Your doing that race, you must be okay.”

They wished me good luck and continued on.  After another minute I managed to get my shoes back on and stretch out my legs.  The first few steps really hurt but once I got past the initial resistance, I was back running at a decent pace.

I continued to ponder the meaning behind “You must be okay” as I headed down Ford Canyon.

Were they saying,”If I was tough enough to make it this far I’d be okay?” or was it a joke about the insanity of doing an ultra, “I was as okay now as I was when I started, which is not really okay at all?”

I arrived at the last aid station a few miles later while debating both sides of this very deep concept. Its funny how the mind will distract us from pain with the most trivial and meaningless thoughts.  Luckily, I am blessed with more of those then anyone I know.

Ford Canyon Aid Station to the Finish (2.6 miles)

I arrived at the aid station completely drained of water.  I rationed my water well but was extremely happy to see the aid station.  When I arrived I immediately chugged 6 cups of fluid, alternating between regular water and electrolyte drink.

It was only 2.5 miles to the finish and I was sure I could make it with a few cups here without taking the extra time to refill my hydration pack.  There were still no runners in sight but I would run the last section of the race as though I had a chance to catch someone (even though I didn’t).  The possibility of someone catching me from behind loomed in the back of my mind but I always felt as a runner its better to look forward rather then worry about what is happening behind you.  I let that thought go with a “if someone is going to catch me from behind, then I will make them earn it.” (and if they do – no hard feelings, awesome job).

I knelt down to stretch my legs for a few seconds, thanked the aid station volunteers and tore off down the trail.  It was the first time all day I really opened up my stride.  It feels like I am flying but when its miles 30, 31 and 31.5 it probably looks more like a crawl.

I saw a few 30k runners on the trail ahead and zoomed past them.  I was really getting into a nice rhythm but hit a snag when the trail forked and I was forced to come to a screeching halt.  I stood there for a few seconds trying to figure out which way to go.  I looked back to a runner in the 30k whom I just passed and she pointed to the left.  I caught sight of the orange trail maker which was right in front of my face and I was reminded how tired I must have been to have missed it. I thanked the runner for helping me out and saving me from a disaster a mile from the finish.

I turned left and tore down the trail.  In a few short minutes I could see the Finish banner ahead in the distance.  Jamil Coury was there taking pictures. I gave him my most serious runner’s face (not very believable) and he tells me great job as I pass.

I looked up and saw the clock….  Something was seriously wrong with the time or my brain’s ability to do math because it said I was not only going to break the 5 hour mark but do so by a decent margin.  My first thought was to look for Ruchi and Atreyu, I had told them there would be no way I could finish in less then 5 hours, let alone under.  I caught sight of them as I made the last turn and gave it everything I had left.  I crossed the line in 4:48:39.

I ran over to Ruchi and Atreyu and gave them a giant hug. In my excitement, it appears I also ran-over the volunteer handing out finisher’s mugs.  I didn’t even realize this until I saw the video today.  Please accept my apology.

Post Race

No we don't normally dress like this - not my choice

After I got some fluids, Ruchi, Atreyu and I found a comfortable place to sit.  I was still in shock and somewhere in the back of my mind I was questioning whether or not I read the time correctly when I crossed the line.  I double checked my GPS and it concured with the time.  I checked the mileage wondering if there was someway I cut the course. No, that looked good too (my GPS had it a little short of 31.5 miles but it tends to do that).

If I had run a 4:48:39 that would mean I beat my previous 50k PR by OVER AN HOUR and a HALF!! On a difficult course to boot.  It also meant I beat last year’s winning time by about 6 minutes.

I won’t lie, I was excited about the result.  However its important to keep these things in perspective. I don’t sudden view myself as being in the same league as the good runners, I view myself more as a bench player that sub’d in and had a decent quarter.  Maybe that will lead more starting time or maybe I’m just going to be a good guy to have on the bench.  Either way it doesn’t matter, I am at least getting some playing time in the game I love.

One of the most enjoyable parts of the race (and really the entire DTR Series) is getting to meet other people who share a passion for trail running.  I really enjoyed meeting Boone Ebel and and his crew (Britteny).  I have been following his blog for awhile but this was my first chance to meet him in person.

I also had a chance to meet Eric Bohn (this years Mesquite Canyon 50k Champion) and his dog Skylar who had come all the way down from Flagstaff.

Speaking of meeting people, I am starting to become jealous of my son.  First he gets to hang out with Hal Korner after he sets the course record at the Javelina Jundred and now after the Mesquite Canyon, Kerrie Bruxvoort who won the race and set the women’s course record in a blazing 4:24:37  volunteered to watch him so my wife could use the restroom.

As great as it is meeting new people, its also nice to start seeing familiar faces.  I had the chance to hang out with Michael Carson and Jermemy Daughtery following the race and catchup with Andi Felton whom I met at Grandpa Jim’s 50k.  All these runners are so down to earth and friendly that you would never suspect your in the presence of the two time defending DTR series champion, the race director of AZ’s newest and toughest 100 miler and the defending women’s Zane Grey champion.

This is in stark contrast to the last road race I had run, a charity 5k nonetheless, where I went over to congratulate the first and second place runners on a good race and they looked at me, stared for a second then turned and walked away without saying a word like I wasn’t even worthy to be in there presence.

I am not saying all road runners are jerks or every trail runner is going to be your best friend but I will say that there is a vibe that surrounds the trail running community that lends itself to an open and friendly atmosphere.  And when you are talking about creating that type of atmospher you don’t have to look any further then Aravapie (Jamil and Nick Coury) who organize such wonderful trail events here in Arizona.

Thank you to all the runners, volunteers, friends and family who have made this all possible.  I’m already looking forward to next years DTR series.

See you All at Zane Grey!!

Alex

San Tan Scramble 25k – 2012

My unofficial stage race got off to a “crappy” start on Saturday at San Tan Regional Park.  When I say crappy,  I am not saying it wasn’t a great day, or a wonderful event – I am referring to the fact 5 minutes before the race I had run off to the bathroom with major bowel issues.

My plan had been simple going into the race,  start off with the leaders, hang with them and see how things went.

So I am sitting there in the bathroom, looking at my watch thinking damn I got to get out of here or I am going to miss the start of the race.  So I bolt out,  get to the line just as the horn goes off.

Since I got there late, I am caught behind the pack and instead of going out fast, I am working my way through a pack on a narrow single track.  My stomach is still rumbling but I tell myself once I get going it will be fine.After  half a mile I make my way clear of the pack and can see the line of leaders.  Its only the first mile of a 15 mile race and even with the slow start I’ll still hit the first mile in about 6:45 which will put me further behind then I had wanted but its early and there will be plenty of time to make up ground.

I see Nathan Coury ahead of me and decide to run with him for a little.  He is setting a nice pace and he is also moving up the chain of runners.  We run together for a little and chat briefly.  We have met a few times at other races but he’s always been on the other side,  helping at aid stations and giving encouragement to runners.  It was nice to see him out on the trail and running so well.

I was feeling strong at this point and could make out Van Patterson’s badwater style hat ahead in the distance and decided to work on closing the gap.  Nathan let me go, and I was once again on the chase alone.

Van was moving well but I was slowly gaining on him.  I was careful not to go after him to aggressively because there was a major climb about 6 miles into the race.  In reality its a climb followed by a steep descent ending in a turn-about, so we can do it all over again.

I anticiapte I’ll catch him a little before the climb and then try to work with him to conquer the hill and continue to pull in other runners.

Let me take a quick time-out from my race report and talk about “that guy”.  We all know him or her.  The person who talks a big game,  but always has excuses of “why” things didn’t go well, etc.  I’m not sure how big of a game I talk but when I look in the mirror I am starting to see “that guy”.

Last race I fell over and took a nap with less than a mile to go and ended up dropping from first place to 6th.   Then on this day, as I am recovering from my poor start and working my way up the ladder; it hits.  The stomach pain and the sudden urge to go – yeah you know – #2.

I tell myself its fine and it will pass, and then I tell myself I better get off the trail (warning this might be a little graphic for those with poop sensitivity) or its going to pass right into my shorts.  So I bolt off trail into some gully, pull down my pants and take a crap.  Luckily I had tissues with me (although I had brought them for my nose) but at least it was some type of T.P.

After a few minutes in the ditch, I am ready to go on.  I run back onto the trail and there is no sign of Van but Nathan is coming up.  He asks me if I got lost and I don’t know what to say exactly so I tell him, “My stomach is killing me and I had to take a killer Poop (technically I used an “S” word but no need to make this more profane then it already is).”

That was kind of a conversation killer but it just sort of came out (re-reading this is a totally unintentional and terribly bad pun).  I was frustrated but quickly changed my mindset.  The time I lost would be hard to makeup but I was still in a good position in the race and Nathan was running great and definitely looking to move up.  He looked strong and if I could hang on, we might be able to pull in some of the front runners.

As we made our way to the first climb my stomach began to retch again.  I had been looking forward to running this hill all week but as we began the climb all I could do was think about not crapping myself.  Running with Nathan helped me stay focused and he set a good pace up the climb.  As we reached the top, I see Jamil Coury taking video and all I can think about is “how awesome would that be if I shit myself right here on camera.  He could use the video to show how “Hardcore trail and ultra running can be”.  Imagine that a guy running up a steep rocky trail, a determined looked in his eyes and crap cascading down his leg” – classic.

As we crest the hill and start the descent, things went from bad to worse.  I normally enjoy running down hill, just relax and let fly.  Except the last thing I want to do is relax.  So I run really tight and slow.  Anyone watching my descent would think, “he is the worst downhill runner I have  ever seen.”

My stomach is killing, I am running like I’m 150 years old and the only thing I can do is concentrate on trying to hold everything together.

Then I see it, just past the turn around point and the aid station; my salvation – the porta pottie!  I run right past the aid station, the volunteers are screaming that I am running the wrong way, but there is no time for explanation.  I think I blurt out Porta Pottie but it was probably as coherent as this race report.

“Please don’t be in use, please don’t be in use.  It’s open….Ahhhhh.”

I probably sat there for ten minutes.  I knew there would be no catching the leaders and that runner’s expression was racing through my head, “It wasn’t my day”.  I really hate that saying and refuse to abide by it.  Even if I wasn’t going to finish in the top 10, I’d I will find a way to make this day mine.

When I left the porta pottie I shifted my purpose.  When you run an ultra, there will be times when you are laid out due to hydration, nutrition, exhaustion, stomach, injury or 1000 other issues that can arise when your on the trail for 5-24 hours.  My purpose in running these trail races is to become a competent ultra runner.  I was lucky to face this trial now so I could practice picking myself off the ground and getting my “shit”together so to speak.  I didn’t have 90+ miles to work my way back into contention but I’d use every last mile I had in this race to damn well try.

I said a quick hello to the aid station volunteers letting them know I was okay and started back out on the trail and began to pick my way up the hill.  I started slowly and built momentum.  I could see many of the runners ahead of me were power hiking the climb and this motivated me to keep churning and to start making up ground.  The long break allowed me to run the backside of the climb with minimal hiking.  When I crested the top I decided to take out my frustrations on the decline.  Unlike the last time I headed down hill,  I was able to relax and let my legs fly.  There were runners coming up the hill as well as runners descending so I held back enough that I had control to stop and navigate both the rocks and people.

Once down the hill it was a short flat section to the next aid station where Ruchi and Atreyu would be waiting for me.  I had told them I intended to go out fast and to look for me somewhere near the front of the pack so I knew they’d be a little worried about me since I was probably running somewhere in the back.

When I came in to the aid station, Ruchi and Atreyu greeted me with a big smile and told me I was running great.  I know the foundation for a good relationship is honesty but I really appreciate a well placed lie now and again.

I told her about my potty issues but that I felt better now and would just focus on catching as many runners I could before the distance ran out.  I exchanged water bottles, got the best mid run kiss of my life and was off.

From that point on it was simply climbing the ladder and chasing as many people down as possible.

I was so focused that the last section of the race seemed to pass by in a flash. I had no idea how many runners I managed to pull in but when I crossed the finish, Ruchi told me I had broken into the top 10.  I knew I ran a strong second half but I was a really surprised by the result

Even though the race didn’t go as planned it was still a fantastic day on the trail.  I had a great time out there and made the best of a difficult situation.

The next day, Stage 2 of my stage race didn’t go so well…

The Xterra Mcdowell Race

Well it turns out my stomach issue was not simply a passing moment but a full blown stomach bug.  I ended up being sick the rest of the day, all through the night and into the next morning.   The final straw occured while driving to the Xterra race Sunday morning and getting sick on the way. At that point I came to the realization that I wasn’t going to be able to complete the race without major issues and I doubted there was going to be a life saving porta pottie on the course this time around.

If there is any disappointment so far in my ultra experience, its that I haven’t been able to put together a solid race from start to finish since I’ve started training and racing last July.  I really hope I can bring everything together for the last race in the DRT trail series next month at the Mesquite Canyon 50k.

This has been a really fun week of training.  Had a snow run in Sedona, hit the canal path, West Wing Mountain, Deem’s Hill Park, Thunderbird Park and previewed San Tan Regional Park in preparation for the 25k San Tan Scramble this Saturday.

I’m really looking forward to the San Tan Scramble.  The trail was fun with one hell of a climb halfway into the race.  My plan is simple; enjoy the it, soak it in and run like a banshee.

Basically I’ll do my best to stay with the lead pack and see how long I can hang.  There are some fast runners in the race so we’ll see how that goes.   I bonked hardcore in my last race on the big climb and am looking for some redemption on the hill in this race.

I did mention that it was a stage race right?  Well not “officially” but I am running the Xtrerra Mcdowell 15 mile trail race the following day.  I am interested to see how my legs bounce back after a hard race.  I’ll likely take the Xterra race more lightly and try to move from the middle of the pack as the race moves forward.  Both these races will help prepare me for my next 50k race in march and my 50 miler in April.

Also I am profiling members of Team Phantom each week.  This week get to meet Chug Boat - the official transportation of Team Phantom.

Off to bed, its going to be an early morning tomorrow, the race is almost 2 hours away   Here are some pictures and Video of this weeks training runs…

Pictures from my Sedona Trip (Thanks Mom for watching Hawkwind while I played in the snow):

Coldwater Rumble 2012- 31k Trail Race at Estrella Mnt Park, Goodyear Az.

In my previous blog post I had mentioned taking a nap on a rock, perhaps some foreshadowing of what this day would hold in store, but I’ll get to that later….

Leading up to the Coldwater Rumble I had really been struggling with my long runs, basically any run longer then 10 miles or time-wise somewhere around the hour and a half mark. You would think that having completed a hundred mile ultra, distances over 10 miles would be cake at this point.  Apparently not

I was so concerned that I e-mailed Jamil Coury the race director (who along with his brother Nick run some of the best trail running events in AZ or anywhere else for that matter) and asked if I could move down to the shorter distance for the Coldwater Rumble, from 50k to 31k which is still close to 20 miles (My GPS had it at 19.71 miles).  As race day approached I realized even the shorter distance (which wasn’t all that short) might be a struggle for me to complete as my longest training run since the JJ100 had been a 14 mile epic struggle a few weeks back.

I figured I’d go for it and in the worse case scenario the race would force me to run a 20 mile long run.  My mindset was to go out at a comfortable pace, run hard but most of all enjoy the day out on the trail.

Ruchi, Atreyu and I arrived about an hour before the start to check-in and get situated.  Noticeable absent were Coach Phantom and my training partner Sterling.  Both are doing well but the supportive wife felt keeping track of Phantom, Sterling and the child prodigy all by her lonesome would be to much to handle alone.  We certainly missed them but if anyone has ever had to handle Phantom and Sterling when they get into a “mood”, they would completely understand why they had to sit this one out.

The race started on time at 8:00 am sharp, and we were off.  A small group consisting of Perry Edinger, Megan Wagner and Van Patterson led us of the gate and set the early pace. I was running just behind the three leaders, trying to find a rhythm to fall into.

As the first mile approached, Perry began to pull away from the lead pack and the way he was moving it looked like he might open up a significant gap.  I felt comfortable and strong at this point, put all my doubts aside about the distance or holding the pace and decided to go with him as he broke away.

As we turned off the Coldwater trail onto a more rugged single track path, Perry really began to hammer the pace.  I followed him through the twisty trail that climbed and dipped through a series of sandy washes for the next couple of miles.

When the trailed broadened, Perry and I ran side by side and spoke a little.  I introduced myself and told him he was setting a great pace.  He confided that he was early in his training and that he was going to slow down soon.  Shortly after he waved me by and suddenly I was alone in the lead.  Normally this would be a good thing but for me it was a little troubling.  I already had doubts about the distance and now I was growing more concerned with the fast pace we had set.  Plus I hadn’t previewed the course and I have been known to suffer from tunnel vision which makes it easy to miss a trail marker and end up off the trail in at a local gas station asking directions. Luckily the course was well marked and I didn’t have any off course adventures.

As I approached the first water station, a little over six miles into the race, I was all alone.  I looked back and didn’t see anyone so decided to fill my hand held water bottle which was about half empty, take off my hat and change out of my long sleeve shirt.  At this point in the race an extra minute here might save me five down the line.  Just as I headed back onto the trail, Van and a runner I did not recognized pulled into the aid station.

I considered taking it slow and running with them but they also stopped to refill and I was enjoying being out in front.

A few miles passed before I heard the first footfalls behind me signalling the  approach of another runner.  I was in a nice running rhythm now and didn’t alter my stride to try and maintain or increase the gap.  If they wanted to catch me at this pace I wouldn’t fight them on it and if they wanted to pass, I would have to decide if I wanted to pick the pace up to stay with them or if I wanted to remain in the rhythm I had found.

As the trail broadened and flattened out again, the new runner pulled up beside me.  At this point he seemed content with running at my current pace.  I introduced myself and he told me his name was Jake (Jake Carlson).  We kept a strong pace but at the same time, we were both running comfortably. We ended up talking for the next mile or so.  I found out he was from Peoria, and that he had moved here from Va.

Shortly after, another set of foot steps came up behind us and Van Petterson joined our little group.  Soon all three of us were running together and talking.

Now if your reading this and thinking to yourself “WTF, why are they chit chatting away during a race?” Your probably a road runner   In trail races and particularly in ultra’s its not uncommon to talk to people, even it its just a few encouraging words.  In this particular case it may have been more excessive then the norm but I always introduce myself when running alongside people and will take cues as to whether they are interested in continuing the conversation or if I am being a nuisance (hopefully I pick up on those clues – LOL).

As the three of us approached the second and last aid station,  we fell into a three person line with Jake taking command of the race, followed by me and then Van.  The gaps between us were only about 10 seconds but the speed at which Jake pulled away let me know he had both speed and legs left.

As the aid station came into view I had already decided I was going to run right through (a decision I would later regret) as I figured I still had a half a bottle of water and it was only 10k to the finish.

I saw Jake hit the aid station and grab some water,  I took back the lead and Jake fell in right behind me.  I wasn’t sure if Van stopped or how far behind he he was at this point.  Its always tempting to look back but its something I try never to do.

Here is where things got a little strange, after about a mile of running from the last aid station, I realized I was just back in the lead and  was once again all alone again.  I wasn’t sure if I had subconsciously picked up the pace or if Jake had dropped back.  The significant climbs were coming up and perhaps he was gathering his strength to make a push on the hills.

My time alone at the front was short lived as I heard the familiar sound of Van who had passed Jake at this point came up behind me.  With less then 5 miles left in the race I decided to pick things up and try to keep the lead.

At this point I began to fade and even though I was picking up my effort, I can’t say for sure if I was actually picking up the pace.  This section of trail was rocky and technical which made the going that much harder.   We made it through the first climb together and with me still holding the lead.  As we descended the hill and the second climb loomed ahead, it was a big one.  I  prepared myself mentally to run strong until I hit the steepest sections of the hill and then planned to power walk to get myself over the hump and begin running again once I crested the top.

It was a great mental plan and exactly what I would have to do to remain competitive but my body had plans of its own.  Heading into the first part of the climb I started to get light headed and dizzy.  I stopped running and started walking earlier then I had planned.  Van passed me and continued up the hill. In my mind,  I tried to stay relaxed, breathe deep and get air. I walked a few seconds, get my bearings and started to follow Van up the hill.  But the dizziness didn’t fade and I had to start walking again almost immediately.  I started sweating profusally and I couldn’t tell if I had my eyes open or close because everything had gone black. I kept blinking and told myself to keep breathing and keep moving.  I probable looked like I was walking home from the pub rather then involved in a trail race.  I don’t really remember to much of what happened other then I made it close to the top before I became dizzy to continue and had to lay down.

I went for my water bottle and found I was completely out.  Not refilling at the last aid station turned out to be a serious mistake. Luckily I had a few jelly beans stashed away which I shoved in my mouth as I was laying on the side of the trail.  People began to pass me.  I knew I needed water and felt like I was on the verge of passing out.  A women gave me some water (I don’t know who you were but thank you so much you saved me out there) and I slowly began to feel better.

Lying on the side of the trail in a semi conscious state always gets the brain thinking in interesting directions.  The first thing that was going through my head was the last song I listened to before the start of the race – “Blackout” by Breathe Carolina.  Basically the song repeatedly says “I won’t black out”.  I was hoping that the lyric would hold for me.

Then I started thinking about my blog and how in my last post I mentioned finding enjoyment in racing even if that meant taking a nap on a rock, and yes, despite my predicament I was loving the race and even the low of the moment.

My dazed thinking was interrupted for a second as Jake passed me while I was laying on the ground day dreaming.  He asked if I was okay and I told him I was fine and that I just needed some time to recover.  I wished him luck and put my head back down and closed my eyes.  Shortly after a stream of 31k runners began to pass me including Sarah Wagner, Buck Jones, and Laren Besenfelder.  I was still a little out of it and I don’t actually remember them passing me, but that is what the standings report .

I wasn’t sure how long I had been laying on the ground or how many runners had passed me before I felt stable enough to stand. I got up slowly, and started to walk.  As I started heading down the hill I spied the race director Jamil Coury coming up the hill.  He told me he heard someone out on the course was in bad shape and needed water.  I admitted it was me and that I had gotten some water form a passing runner and felt recovered enough to continue (Thanks Jamil for coming out there to get me, I’m not sure how many race directors would do that).

Eventually I got myself from a walk to a slow jog.  I was now slowly working my way down the hill to the finish which was probable only a mile from where I took my nap.

A runner then came flying down the hill and passed me.  I saw that he was in my race and he encouraged me to finish strong.  I decided to try and go with him.  I had led most of the race and I didn’t feel like limping across the finish line.  So I began the chase.

It took a little time and a lot of effort to get my body running back into a higher gear but once I got moving again I could tell my legs were still strong and I would have a good kick at the end.  As we came down the hill flying towards the finish, I had caught up to the runner but was still trailing.  With about 100 meteres to go I kicked it in and I just barely edged him at the finish (something like .04 seconds).

Win or lose it was just a nice feeling to have recovered enough to finish strong.

In the end, I was able to recover enough for a 6th place finish with a time of 2:48:01. not bad considering my GPS had me at 30+ minutes for the last mile and a half .

Thanks again to Jamil and Nick Coury for putting on such great trail running events in the Valley.  I’m already looking forward to next year.

The Aspiring Ultra Runner,

Alex Kaine

I had a great deal of successes in 2011 but also my fair share of disappointments  but I wouldn’t trade any of those experiences.  I learned a great deal about myself in the process of aspiring to be an Ultra Runner.

The most important lesson I learned and the one that every runner magazine, book, video, blog and any other resource you can imagine repeats over and over again is that you can not rush into a 100 mile race.  Simply stated I rushed the process.

This is not to say it can’t be done, I managed to complete the 100 miler in under 24 hours but I was so physically and mentally drained afterwards (and probably a little before) that I spent the next few weeks recovering and questioning why I was putting myself through all of this.

In the end I came to the simple realization I love to run and I prefer to do it through the natural world rather then the constructs of humankind.  That is why I run but it is not the reason I enter races, for if it were I would simply save myself the entrance fee.

The reason I race is to challenge myself to run at the edge of endurance. Racing pushes me beyond my known limits to expand my internal boundaries to places I never thought possible.  It confirms within me the belief that what seems impossible can be accomplished.

In 2012, I hope to reunite my passion for running with my desire to compete.  I will take things slower, give myself more time to prepare, so that I can really enjoy the process of running and bring that joy with me to the starting line on race day.

My race calendar starts with The Coldwater Rumble 31k trail race tomorrow.  I have no expectations other enjoying the experience.  Someone might read that and think I plan on taking a nap on a rock somewhere but enjoying a race is not about taking it easy. Its appreciating the mountains, the steams and dirt and rock trail and at the same time pushing myself to the limits of my ability and perhaps beyond.  If that means taking a nap on a rock somewhere on the course then so be it.

Perhaps I’ll be fortunate enough to land in the top 10, or maybe I’ll be the last one across the line, neither result matters if I don’t enjoy the experience and both are equally priceless if I do.

2011 will go down for me as one of the most fulfilling years of my life.  I completed my first ultra marathon at the Lake Tahoe 50k, complete my first 50 mile (well 46 technically) at the Javelina Moonlight Madness Run and my first 100 miler at the Javelina Jundred.  As happy as I am about all of those accomplishments, they do not compare to the joy of welcoming my son Atreyu Hawkwind Kaine into the world on June 24th, 2011.

A year that ended up being so rewarding, started very dark.  On New Year’s Day 2011 which also happens to be my half birthday, I was stuck at home recovering from foot surgery – unable to travel, walk or let alone run.  Ruchi was visiting her parents for the holidays and I was alone with my thoughts.

It all started innocently enough a week before Thanksgiving when I caught the flu.  I had the typical aches, pains, fever, chills, etc.  A few days rest and I’d be back on my feet, no biggie.  Well a few days turned into a week and then another week.

As my flu like symptoms continued to get worse,  my foot became red, swollen and extremely painful.  Another return to the doctor, and I received the bad news that in addition to some super flu, I also appeared to have gout.

I was in complete shock!  Gout was something that affected older, out of shape, people with poor diet habits; not young (35), a healthy, active, non drinkers!

Another week went by and I was still sick with the flu and the gout attack was not responding to the medication as expected.  My doctor was growing increasingly worried and sent me to get an MRI on my foot to make sure nothing else was going on.

A call from my doctor later that afternoon had me sent directly to the hospital for a bone infection.  They operated on my foot the next morning.

Fast-forward to New Years day, laying alone in my house and the only thing I could think of was “Please, let me be able to run again.”

I would not consider myself a serious runner before this moment.  I enjoyed running and it was something that was a part of me but at the same time it was always there. Since running seriously in high school and my freshman year in college, my running had become sporadic, a few weeks here, a month or two off, etc.

Now suddenly the option of going out for a run was taken away from me and for the first time I realized how fundamental running was to my being.  The doctor told me that the joint was damaged and although I should be able to walk on it and perhaps run, it would likely never be the same.  I had always thought about running ultra marathons, I love the trails and getting out in nature but they just seemed so long.  I figured it was something I could do when I had more time,  maybe when I was older, etc.  It dawned on me that the window may have already closed.

So on that fateful New Years Day, I made my first real New Year’s resolution,  I promised myself that once my foot was healed enough where I could walk, I would rehab seriously and get myself in condition to run an ultra marathon.  I would do it for me but also for my unborn son.  How could I tell him to follow his dreams with any credibility when I had let my own slip away.

Almost 6 months after that fateful day and a few weeks after the birth of my son, my ultra running journey began at the TRT 50k and the aspiring ultra runner was born.

Its been over two months since my last post. I lived through the Javelina and even managed to finish my first 100 miler in under 24 hours. My crew was fantastic and I had a great experience…. I will post a recap of all the great things that happened that day.

However I have found I am really having trouble moving forward both in my running and my blogging. I don’t think I can do so until I express my deepest, truest feelings about my race.

“AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH”

SHIIITTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT

“FFFFFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCCCCCCCCCCCCKKKKKKKKKKK!!”

Real Mature – I know

FFFFFFFFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCK!

OK,  I feel better – Moving on

Pirate Queen - Lady Admiral Phantom Desert Howl

The Haunted Jaunter

A Pirate ship of ill repute,  captained by The Pirate Queen, Lady Phantom Desert Howl and her first mate Sterling Silver. The ship is rumored to sail from one ultra to the next seeking plunder at each destination.

Famed Javelina Jundred Buckle

Quest of the Javelina Jundred Buckle!

With a course set for Port Javelina,  Lady Phantom has her sights set on recovering the famed Javelina Jundred Belt Buckle.  The aspiring crew member, Alexander Kaine has been designated to brave the dangers of Mcdowell Island (which is said to be filled with scorpions, poisonous snakes, steep ascents, sandy washes and the famed man eating Javelina) to recover the Buckle for the Pirate Queen.

Although the aspiring crew member must retrieve the buckle with his own two hands (or feet as it were) he will not be sent to the island unsupported.

Ruchi "Ruthless" and Hawkwind

The expedition will be led by The Pirate Queen’s most trusted and experienced captains, Shawn and Nicole.  Captains Shawn and Nicole will lead a crew consisting of first mate Sterling Silver, the pirate wench “Ruthless” Ruchi,  the pirate prodigy “Hawkwind”,  and the ship’s doctors Dr. Phil and Dr. Melanie.  It is rumored that the ultra pirate Jensen may make an appearance as well.  This crew of scallywags will do everything in their power to make sure the aspiring pirate is never lacking in food, water or supplies.

However to provide some additional motivation,  Lady Phantom has taken the aspiring pirate’s father, brother and step mother hostage.  Should he fail in his quest to retrieve the buckle, Lady Phantom will not hesitate to send them to Davy Jones Locker at the bottom of the sea.

Aspiring Pirate Alex Kaine with Hawkwind

-Let’s hope he does well under pressure!