Wednesday, September 22, 2010
The Wait is Almost Over (thank god)
Per my usual preparation... when I signed up for the Stumpjump, I didn't really do any research. I knew it was a 50k in Chattanooga, I was familiar with the race management, and I knew it was one of the most well-respected ultras in the southeast. And hey... that's enough for me to plunk down a small chunk of change. (Ok, you're right, you're right... I really just signed up for the patagonia race tee).
And then, a couple months after signing up, I closely examined the course elevation chart. I briefly freaked out and then per my usual race preparation... I went into elevation denial. Ohhhhh.. it'll be fine!
And now... with less than 2 weeks till race day... I'm doing a little more research on the race and have come across the following notations from the course description that have given me pause:
Suck Creek Road and Rock Garden.
Now... maybe I'm overreacting here a bit... but... I have a feeling that a trail that is referred to as Suck Creek Road isn't going to be good. And the best part??? We get to run Suck Creek Road TWICE. Awesome.
Next up... Rock Garden. This is not a phrase you want to hear in reference to a trail you are running on. I've hiked through rock gardens. On the Fiery Gizzard Trail and the Stone Door Trail and it sucks major ass. They call it a rock garden because that sounds nicer than the trail of broken shins, ankles and spirits. But, you can't fool me.
Despite the fact that this is going to be the hardest race I've ever ran, I'm actually starting to relax and get excited about it. These next 10 days are about getting myself as mentally prepared as possible. My legs are as prepared as they are going to get, but, where I can really gain strength these next 10 days is in my head. And for me... that's the hardest part.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
6 comments:
Stump Jump is awesome. Suck Creek Rd is where the fun starts and also where it ends. You'll see what I mean when you get there - both times. Rock Garden is fun, just be careful and take your time.
Have fun! I wish I was going.
Brent
Elevation denial, I think I may adopt that policy.
Enjoy the taper before the race.
OK, that's the first time I've seen a race with its own commercial on youtube. Impressive.
You're gonna git yo ass kicked, girlie!!!!!!!!! ha ha, totally kidding :)
Listen, trail runners are the coolest people I've met. Cyclists are a-holes and swimmers ... well, swimmers are their own breed and they'll leave your ass in the lake. Heck, they won't even know you're drowning because they're trying to keep themselves from drowning!
Trail runners will walk and talk you through the pain. You'll have a blast!
Have fun at Auburn. Bring home a win for the 'Cocks, OK?
Pretty cool place you've got here. Thanx for it. I like such themes and anything that is connected to this matter. I definitely want to read a bit more on that blog soon.
Hilary Hakkinen
executive escorts
#1 I am scared out of my mind.
#2 I may die.
You'll do great! Come on, running the last 17 miles of Squaw Peak was a great indicator of how well you will do, even if you were pacing for a jackass.
Post a Comment