Ultimate Dawg

Wow! What a RUN!!

2011-10-31T15:12:00.001-04:00

Hard to believe that I didn't really want to run too hard...but managed a 1:32.53 Half Marathon at the Gettysburg Blue/Gray race yesterday in snow covered Gettysburg!This was good for 20th place out of 420 finishers. And, second in my age group. I would have received an apple pie if I'd stayed! LOL

Pictures of the run will be uploaded tonight!

Felicia "REPRESENTS" - Way to go Girl!

2011-06-29T05:48:00.000-04:00

Sometimes you just don't realize at the time that something special is brewing. Felicia did this when she asked, "Can I come up and work with you at Catoctin"

Little did we know that having this wonderful young lady come up from Middletown's youth running club would lead to a dual-championship high jumper! (We have to give some credit to Middletown, right!?)

But alas, this is exactly what happened.

Felicia began working with Catoctin earlier this season with Kathy (Coach Kathy) on high jump as there wasn't much of an opportunity to jump in Middletown. Several practices, bleacher relays, sharks and minnows and video taping those eyes shut and what happened?

Another regional Champion!! Thank you Felicia for allowing Catoctin to "adopt" you as part of our Team - you've been a great addition (and we found out she's a pretty good trail runner too....do we see cross country in the near future?) LOL

Regional Champion!!!!!!!

Sam "REPRESENT" CYA Track & Field - First Gold Medal!!!

2011-06-23T22:38:00.000-04:00

What an awesome day today was! As I had posted on my Facebook page, a coach's job is to place his or her athletes in the best position to succeed. Three weeks ago, I did just that with Sam. Much to the laughter and chagrin of some, and because of that, some convincing to Sam that this event was a viable event, she decided to give race walking a try.

It turns out that Sam is a natural - had the form down in less than 20 minutes. And, the work and effort that we put in (including that one extra practice at Mount St. Mary's) really paid off today!

Despite a sore knee, which quickly became two sore knees, Sam succeeded in her quest to not only complete the race walk, but she did it to perfection - receiving not one demerit for form. Race walkers are judged on their ability to keep both feet on the ground while keeping the front knee locked at all times.

Here is Sam's winning walk:

From the second lap on, Sam's knee was hurting her. The other walkers told her in the bullpen that everyone's knees hurt when they begin race walking because of the stresses the event places on the knee by having to keep the knee straight. But, she continued to race along, and fought through the pain. In fact, she told me afterwards "Oh, I wasn't going to quit." Now that is every coach's dream to hear their athlete make that statement!

So, 3000 meters and 27:28 minutes later, Sam crossed the finish line a CHAMPION!!!

As a coach, is there anything better than this? Can a coach be any more proud of their athlete? Well, yes, when said athlete possesses a humble personality along with a strong, good personal foundation, this simply amplifies their rise to Champion!

Very proud of you Sam! You represented Catoctin proud today!

~Coach John

Runnin on the AT Trail - CYA Style!

2011-06-19T17:21:00.000-04:00

I have wanted to post for quite some time, some of the kids that are running on the trails in northern Maryland. I coach a youth track and field/XC club with about 45 kids in track and about 20 in XC. Today's post will show some kids on the AT Trail from this past Friday, June 17.

We had an awesome time as we started out from Pen Mar Park, heading towards High Rock. We even manged to recruit two new runners from Middletown - Felicia and Veronica!

They are both strong runners and did very well on the difficult trail.

Next, we had Donovan, and he is very strong runner from Middletown, but now running for Catoctin. Donovan is very fast and usually our front-runner with Lillie (Lillie missed this run!).

We managed to catch one of our runners in "distress" - "What? I have to climb that hill!!" Sam's facial expression is priceless!

But alas we made it to the top of the mountain, High Rock! In this picture we can see Alexi as well as the rest of the kids in previously mentioned. They were looking at the awesome view!

Here is a pic of everyone just before we headed back to Pen Mar:

All told, the kids did great and we made 6.5 miles in 2:35! On July 8, we'll be heading out from High Rock to Raven Rock. More trail news to follow!

Labor Pains 12 Mile Ultra

2010-09-06T09:02:00.000-04:00

Wow...what an awesome run! If you've not run this race (and you haven't unless you were there yesterday), it is a hoot! Check it out on the link - they will run it again next year.

Forty miles - longest run I've ever done! 7:48 with a new 50K PR of 5:58!!

Frederick Marathon

2010-05-03T06:28:00.000-04:00

What a HOT day for a race!

At race time, temperatures were already 78 and humid. The day before it was 22 degrees cooler. We all knew this was going to be tough!

Kristy (my daughter) completed her first half-marathon with Dad pacing her the whole way. Her goal was 1:45 which she just about made with a time of 1:46! Way to go Kristy!!

In addition, Taylor Myers was competing in his first full marathon. More to come on that in a little bit.

The gun went off and we were on our way. Within a half mile there were already people complaining about the heat. Cloudy and overcast but we knew the sun was coming!

Here is another pic of Kristy just before the start:

As you can see, she's ready to go!

The run for the first few miles was fast. We were on a 7:24 pace and looking good. By the time we got to mile five, we were well ahead of many in the pack. Here we are going left at Baker Park in the heart of downtown Frederick:

Our pace slowed down as Kristy's stomach began to give her problems, as well as the heat. Being her first, it is normal to go out too fast and then begin to fade. I've done that plenty of times. LOL

But, in the end, she did finish and here are a couple of pictures to show!

Way to go Kristy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kristy Ann. Steiner #5655

Thurmont, MD, USA

Age: 19 Gender: F

Distance	HALF MAR
Clock Time	1:49:13
Chip Time	1:49:05
Overall Place	327 / 2627
Gender Place	94 / 1451
Division Place	3 / 34
Age Grade	60.7%
Total Pace	8:20/M
Time Back	33:11
Tot Div	2627
Tot Gend	1451
Tot Ag	34
5 8M Rank	INC
5 8M Time
5 8M Pace
Fin Rank	427
Fin Time	1:49:05
Fin Pace	**:05/M

Walt Disney Marathon

2010-02-28T08:09:00.000-05:00

Like the New York City marathon in 2007, I was fortunate to be in the right place at the right time to register for the Walt Disney marathon this year. I was attending a conference and just happened to be over the weekend of the run. What an awesome run!

This is one of the premier runs in the United States. This one makes the listing in Runners World - not even the Baltimore Marathon makes it there yet. This was also the first one that began with a huge fireworks display - it was awesome!

Race opening was COLD! I traveled to Orlando expecting that it'd be overly warm, having come from the mid-Atlantic and it has been cold. However, the weather seemed to wish to acomodate those of us from the north, as gun time temperature was a balmy 27 degrees with a nice 10 mph breeze! Brrrrrrr....

Above is my buddy from Real Green Systems out of Lansing Michigan. Steve ran an awesome marathon under 3:10 and qualified for Boston - "Way to go STEVE!!!" Fortunately for him, I left the car unlocked so he had a relatively warm place to go while waiting for me.

For me, I fully intended to run this race and take pictures. I snapped a whopping 70 pictures on the course. I won't post them all here, but here are a few to follow. I hope you enjoy and if you get a chance to come and run this race, it is well worth it. The whole Disney Team did an awesome job!!!

Here are some pics:

This was (obviously) just running into The Magic Kingdom! What an awesome park. I had no idea how mystical and majestic this place is.

A close up pic of the Kingdom! This pic prompted me to tell my family, "We're going to Disneyworld in 2011~"

This guy was playing piano out on the course - just a fun and awesome time!!!!

Two pics here, one above and the one below of Universal Studios Orlando - too cool!!!

Another pic to follow.

Epcot...what else can you say! :-)

Steve Katz Baby!!!! Cruising to BOSTON!!!!!!! Congratulations Steve!

Whew...glad that is over! LOL

Now, here's the awesome medal:

Sweet! - OUT.......

Running in Bridgeport CT!!

2009-12-22T15:06:00.000-05:00

Thought it'd be nice to see some pictures from my run in Long Island Sound at low tide! This run was on Wednesday, December 16 at about 4:00 p.m.

What is "On Tap for 2010!"

2009-12-06T08:11:00.019-05:00

Since I really need to Blog more often, this presented a great opportunity to list out what is on tap for 2010 in my running world. Hopefully this coming year will be more injury free than 2009. In the past year, I missed out on several races due to nagging injuries, particularly to my calf (strains).

January 2010

Phunt 50K

What better than to kick the new year off with a race on day 2! January 2nd will showcase the Phunt 50K in Havre 'de Grace Maryland. Here is a description of the race (2009):

The forth running of the PHUNT events including a 50k, Marathon, 20k and 11 k courses was completed on a brisk Jan 3, 2009 day at Fair Hill Natural Management Area near Elkton Maryland. With over 200 registrants the participation in this free semi FAT ASS event has literally mushroomed from its early beginnings in 2002 when 10- 12 showed up on the Sat closest to Jan 1 to run the PHUP precursor 50k loop course in horrid cold rain drenched conditions. Two hardy ladies and 2 experienced guys were the only true finishers of that run.

In sharp contrast as the run has grown, 2007 saw over 100 arrive for a balmy days run and in 2008 a similar number attempted the event with similar crisp conditions to 2009.

The 50k course which is the main event is tweaked some every year by co–director Phil Nissen and has evolved to be slightly less circuitous but still in keeping with offering an amazing variety of single track trail, cart paths and open field and a very minor less then 5% road component. The other distance options utilize the 50k full loop course offering cut –offs for lesser distance.

The event is free and relies on participants for some food and liquid supplies to have at aid stations which vary in number and provisioning each year based on the donations and available volunteers to handle setting up a station. 2009 was also the first year of a Food Panty Challenge. It was amazingly successful with canned goods and non- perishables over filling a large SUV to be distributed at area shelters and food pantries.

Volunteer $ donations this year were also sufficient to cover a lot parking fee, the run directors costs and still present park management with a $100 check.

The event has also drawn entrants from a broad geographic area, with 2009 being no exception with a sizable contingent from New York City ( including 50k 1^st place female, Stephanie Case ), as well as several from Illinois, Michigan and Florida.

Walt Disney Marathon

This race "fell" into my lap, so to speak. Already planning to be in Orlando Florida the weekend of January 9, I was informed that the Walt Disney Marathon, one I've wanted to run for a good long time, was taking place on Sunday January 10 - a 5:50 a.m. start! I ran a "tune up" run this past week (December 3) and it was W-A-R-M! Coming from northern temps in the 30's, it should prove to be a challenge with:

a.) a 50K run being completed eight days prior and;

b.) a temperature that will most likely be 40 to 50 degrees warmer!

Description of the course:

Walt Disney World® Marathon

Sunday, January 10, 2010

The final race of the weekend, you will complete the most magical 26.2 miles on Earth. The course takes you through all four Walt Disney World® Theme Parks starting at Epcot®, continuing on to the Magic Kingdom® Park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios™ and then back to Epcot®. for an exhilarating finish.

February 2010

Some much needed rest after the WDM, with about six or seven weeks between that run and the Hashawha Hills Trail Run in Westminster MD. This is a small doozy of a well run event, and from speaking with others who've run this, it is quite captivating. I'll experience this and report back! :-)

Course Description:

The start/finish is at a covered pavilion just a two minute walk from the Nature Center The course has about two miles of asphalt, three miles of gravel road and 26 miles of trail. The course is mostly single track trails along with some old woods roads and open fields. The entire course is runnable. There are no mountains, no rocks, and no roots, but there are a few stream crossings (you WILL get your feet wet) and never ending small hills to wear you down with a few bigger hills thrown in just for fun. The scenery changes from mostly woods to meadows and open fields with beautiful views of rolling farmland. The course will be well marked for the entire distance; however runners will have to pay attention to remain on course.

March 2010

A few weeks after the Hashawha Trail run is the Hat Run. I've not run this event before, but have been encouraged to do so for a few years now by my good running buddy Stephen Dobson. This run will replace the Washington National Marathon, which I've run the past three years. As you probably can tell, I'm trying to get off the road and onto the trails!

The Hat Run is a 50K race that takes place in beautiful Susquehannna State Park (PA). This should prove to be a bit challenging, but fun and a nice switch from the roads.

Course Description:

The course is mostly single track trail with a mix of open fields, dirt road and some paved road. The course features nearly 9,800 feet of climbing. There is a starting loop of 3.6 miles followed by two identical loops of 13.7 miles. There are 4 stream crossings that can be challenging depending on the water level - there is alway the chance of getting wet feet.

URL: http://www.hatrun.com/course.htm

Another view from space:

Baltimore Marathon 2009

2009-12-02T07:55:00.003-05:00

Results of Baltimore

JOHN STEINER #3370

THURMONT, MD

Age: 43 Gender: M

Distance	MAR
Clock Time	3:45:00
Chip Time	3:43:19
Overall Place	465 / 3152
Gender Place	366 / 2033
Division Place	68 / 294
Age Grade	58.8%
5 7M	48:34
10M
12 7M	1:46:45
Half
19M
20M
Ctz	USA
Pace	8:32

Injuries....injuries....injuries.....

2009-09-13T21:22:00.004-04:00

This must be the year for me and injuries.....no matter what. I get close to a run...injured. First, it was my calf muscle...then it was my ankle...now it's my groin. Go figure.

Well, I did learn that my torn calf muscle was most likely due to three out of four workouts in five days on the track. I just read on "Runners World" that running on a track stretches the outer calf muscle (my right leg) and that it puts undue strain on the calf. Who'd have known that!

Then, most recently I went on a 40 mile bike rid (last Sunday). Go figure that one. Went from 22 miles to 40....did the 40 miler after 9 days off....no wonder. Thus, I missed my Super Hike! Ugh!

So....now I am back to running...and biked a nice 35 miler today....22 last Thursday and will bike again on this coming Thursday morning. Trying to stay healthy.

Saturday's run is the "Run for the Bathroom!"
Wooot-woot!

Catoctin 50K Follow Up & Results!

2009-08-23T08:39:00.002-04:00

Well, finally the results are up on the C-50K! Props to the guys and gals from Frederick Steeplechasers who did SO WELL!!!!!!!!!!

Still recovering - three weeks later. Here's the results!

Catoctin 50K Results

2009 Catoctin 50k Trail Run Results
(162 Starters - 139 Finishers) (108 Men, 31 women) (85.8 % finish rate)
Official Temperatures: Start: 72; Finish: 86

Pos Time First Last City State Sex Age
1 4:50:45 Bradley Mongold Martinsburg WV . 31
2 5:13:30 Karsten Brown Front Royal VA . 35
3 5:16:16 Travis Warren Woodstock MD . 35
4 5:27:53 Serge Arbona Baltimore MD . 44
5 5:29:32 Matt McDonald Green Castle PA . 39
6 5:49:25 Stephan Dobson Thurmont MD . 48
7 5:52:44 Tim Smith Glenelg MD . 38
8 5:54:15 Andrew Holland New York NY . 30
9 5:58:53 Steven Winters Frostburg MD . 38
10 6:03:35 Brennen Wysong New York NY . 39
11 6:09:27 Matthew Warner Richmond VA . 33
12 6:12:16 James Mastrianni Hellertown PA . 46
13 6:14:00 Leo Lutz Lancaster PA . 39
14 6:15:12 Herman Richards Stockton NJ . 56
15 6:18:36 Michael Schuster Asuburn VA . 36
16 6:18:50 Michael Huff Fairfax VA . 42
17 6:20:27 Marlin Yoder Harrisonburg VA . 56
18 6:22:37 John Cassilly Glen Allen VA . 42
19 6:24:43 Michele Harmon Gaitersburg MD F 43
20 6:25:27 Ron Green Bel Air MD . 42
6:25:27 Gary Reilly Bel Air MD . 53
22 6:27:34 Rande Brown Bedford PA . 39
23 6:27:53 Alberto Vazquez Timonium MD . 40
24 6:30:45 Kristin Biris Knoxvillw MD F 39
25 6:31:32 Heath Coats Jefferson MD . 41
26 6:32:36 Victor Lin Burke VA . 29
27 6:33:02 Kari Brown Bedford PA F 35
28 6:37:09 Eugene Gignac New Cumberland PA . 53
29 6:37:42 Niqui Johnson Frederick MD F 43
30 6:38:38 Becky Orndorf Hagerstown MD F 39
31 6:39:36 Sheri Fiolek Harpers Ferry WV F 31
32 6:45:50 Michael Campbell Manassas VA . 59
Untitled Document http://www.ultrunr.com/Catoctin/cat2009results.html
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33 6:49:28 Benjamin Bonifare Middletown MD . 34
34 6:49:38 Jose Suarez Fairfield CT . 47
35 6:51:22 David Garman Jefferson MD . 47
36 6:52:19 Jon Norris Reston VA . 37
37 6:53:00 Rita Hall Rehrersburg PA F 47
38 6:53:46 Dave Grimm Hagerstown MD . 49
39 6:55:56 Marsha Latimer Pottstown PA F 47
40 6:56:00 Lori Johnson Red Hill PA F 49
41 6:56:07 Garry Rarer Stowe PA . 36
42 6:57:33 David Starnes Washington DC . 38
43 6:58:55 Matthew Smythe Richmond VA . 28
44 6:59:03 Ling Dao Fairfax VA . 32
45 6:59:20 Ruth Ann Helfrick Elysburg PA F 42
46 6:59:21 Beth Weisenborn Gettysburg PA F 34
47 7:00:03 Sean Coggins Mt Airy MD . 37
48 7:02:42 Bill Horne Leesburg VA . 49
49 7:03:31 Pat Gilbert Baltimore MD . 45
50 7:03:34 Tom Corris Lake Ridge VA . 56
51 7:03:47 Patrick Brown Towson MD . 42
52 7:03:52 Rick Corcoran Baltimore MD . 36
53 7:03:57 Martha Wright Richmond VA F 48
54 7:08:03 Kristin Shaw Frederick MD F 26
55 7:09:04 Ray Baldwin Gaitersburg MD . 46
56 7:09:19 Quatro Hubbard Richmond VA . 49
57 7:10:24 Robert Hagen Stafford VA . 41
58 7:10:54 James Maxson Shinglehouse PA . 37
59 7:12:51 Patrick Wysong Baltimore MD . 42
60 7:14:23 John Kinnaman Gaitersburg MD . 50
61 7:14:39 Gavin Watson Ellicott City MD . 48
62 7:15:22 Rhonda Stricklett Westminster MD F 34
63 7:15:35 Raymond Michaels Boonsboro MD . 65
64 7:15:57 Claude Courbois Gaitersburg MD . 43
65 7:17:30 Jerry Mason Green Castle PA . 52
66 7:18:58 Laurie Reinhart Coopersburg PA F 37
67 7:18:59 Travis Dill Glen Burnie MD . 32
68 7:22:13 David Monticello Arlington VA . 37
69 7:22:16 Gary Lukacs Spring Grove PA . 52
70 7:22:17 Edwin Markham Darien CT . 49
71 7:22:59 Dan Stasny Clear Spring MD . 40
Untitled Document http://www.ultrunr.com/Catoctin/cat2009results.html
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72 7:23:52 Kenneth Battagalia Swansboro NC . 42
73 7:24:06 Sean Kerr McLean VA . 42
74 7:25:22 Michael O'Grady Frederick MD . 56
75 7:25:38 Joe Kilcoyne Germantown MD . 35
76 7:35:19 Andrew Anderson Manassas VA . 28
77 7:36:02 Jeff Radan Rockville MD . 49
78 7:36:02 Mark Radan Rockville MD . 33
79 7:38:14 Vicki Kendall Arlington VA F 56
80 7:38:57 Paul Headland Frederick MD . 40
81 7:43:26 Kerry Owens Washington DC F 46
82 7:43:42 Paul Crickard Columbia MD . 55
83 7:46:42 Karl Roy Edgewater MD . 38
84 7:48:25 Paul Sherlock Arlington VA . 53
85 7:49:35 Steve Pilarcik Middletown MD . 47
86 7:50:58 Blake Sweeney Frederick MD . 24
87 7:51:15 Bill Breidenstine Hersey PA . 44
88 7:51:51 Ed Cacciapaglia Reston VA . 55
7:51:51 Stephanie Wilson Oakhill VA F 44
90 7:52:08 Rick Moyer Reading PA . 48
91 7:52:43 Mark Zimmerman Silver Spring MD . 56
92 7:53:22 Susan Fahey Hagerstown MD F 43
93 7:56:23 Alan Gowan Keymar MD . 59
94 7:56:26 Robert Dolan Ashburn VA . 43
95 7:58:11 James LeClare Severna Park MD . 47
7:58:11 John Steiner Thurmont MD . 43
97 8:00:47 Stephen Cooper Salisbury MD . 55
98 8:00:47 Dave Hendrick Chester VA . 37
99 8:01:10 Tom Green Columbia MD . 58
100 8:03:58 Christian Taylor New Holland PA . 35
101 8:05:56 Alan Lagon Baltimore MD . 39
102 8:05:58 Gilbert Gray Greenbelt MD . 47
103 8:08:00 Challen Edwards Arlington VA . 43
104 8:13:48 Steve Boutilier Bel Air MD . 49
105 8:16:32 Dean Johnson Red Hill PA . 49
106 8:16:47 Carole Smith Frederick MD F 54
107 8:17:23 Denise Coll Alexandria VA F 48
108 8:18:11 Glenn Gravatt Harpers Ferry WV . 52
109 8:19:19 Art Perraud Columbia MD . 51
110 8:20:59 Ray Jackson Hagerstown MD . 37
Untitled Document http://www.ultrunr.com/Catoctin/cat2009results.html
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111 8:26:30 Stanley Spence Burke VA . 53
112 8:29:15 Larry Key Frederick MD . 62
113 8:29:19 Warren Warcholik Myserville MD . 48
114 8:29:46 David Flemming Springfield VA . 33
115 8:29:47 Peter Norris Ft. Belvoir VA . 30
116 8:30:12 Mark Lawrence Frederick MD . 50
117 8:32:15 Juliana Brown State College PA F 23
118 8:32:20 Lisa Johnston Burkitsville MD F 44
119 8:32:52 Nancy Aguilar Baltimore MD F 30
120 8:32:55 Bart Rein Forrest Hill MD . 44
121 8:33:00 John Marsh Hampstead MD . 34
122 8:34:38 Sara Davidson Arlington VA F 26
123 8:35:40 Michael George Richmond VA . 56
124 8:38:39 John Costigan Burke VA . 55
125 8:39:52 Farouk Elkassed Fairfax VA . 59
126 8:39:57 Chris McKenna Frederick MD . 42
127 8:40:18 John SonderMann Stafford VA . 55
128 8:40:19 Faye Krause Fredericksburg VA F 43
129 8:40:20 Gary Knipling Mason Neck VA . 65
130 8:40:41 Johanna Lockner Dumfries VA F 38
131 8:42:28 Bob Anderson Woodbridge VA . 62
132 8:50:20 Robert Gaylord Burke VA . 61
133 8:53:29 Ben Tesdahl Mt Airy MD . 57
134 9:00:40 Pam Gowan Keymar MD F 49
135 9:08:30 Brent Nelson Green Castle PA . 28
136 9:08:36 Kathleen Harrison Hagerstown MD F ?
137 9:08:59 Michael Holland Hagerstown MD . 54
138 9:09:42 Margie Schlundt Millersville MD F 56
139 9:11:37 Judith Weber-Colon Ellicott City MD F 49

Next run - July 31, 2010!!!!

Catoctin 50K - It's a wrap!!

2009-08-02T08:05:00.005-04:00

Well, this was my "comback" run from the injury to my calf. With much trepadition, I decided that I'd go ahead and run. I must have had phantom pain in my lower calf muscle as for several days there was no pain, and then on Friday, I had pain.

I went to If the Shoe Fits and bought a new running outfit for this race, and got everything together for the Saturday run. Soon after, the alarm clock went off!

I set the alarm for 4:30 a.m. and when it went off, I looked at the time, and thought, "I really should not do this. So, I turned off the alarm and went back to sleep, completely convinced I wouldn't be running this today. But, I awoke at 5:38 and thought, "I really should go and run this." Out and on my way to the race I went.

Kevin Sayers is the race director, and has been for the past ten years. I have to say up front that this race, for such a small fee to pay, is well-organized and the volunteer help is awesome!

The race begins at the tea room at High Knob, which is in Gambrill State Park. You first go around the park area and quickly your on to the AT trail. If you have never run on the AT trail, then you should know that using the word "trail" is not the best description. I'd describe it as "rock!" I have never seen so much rock.

It had rained the evening before, so the rocks were very slippery and several unfortunate runners took some nasty spills at the beginning. Soon though, everyone was on their way to the Blue Blaze trail and off to make it to the cutoff points.

The first cutoff was six miles in and we had 1:45 to get there. I made it in 1:10 and felt good about "banking" some time. The aid stations throughout were great. Plenty of food and drink, and the most helpful and friendly group of people at any race I have run. They were taking our water bottles and filling them up for us! I've never experienced that level of service.

The first six miles were not too difficult. Actually, the first half of the run wasn't too bad. Of course, I'd learn why later. The first half, much if the run is downhill. And, as all of us runners know, that means the second half is mostly uphill. And, that is what it was.

On the run back, at mile 17 I started to cramp up and my run became a slow jog. The slow jog turned into a fast walk. I met up with another runner, Jim, who was painfully aware that we had many uphills to go. We met up at about mile 21 and ran the balance of the run together, encouraging each other on.

The final two miles of the run was at a 9% uphill grade (ouch!). We came to the top at the tea room, and made our way across the finish. RD Kevin was there to greet us with a huge smile, "congratulations!", and the famous "CAT CARD!"

We had done it! Official Time: 7:58.11!

Postscript

I'll post a pic once it becomes available on the website.

As for the calf, I'd have to label it as "recovered." I had no problem with the run. The longest run since June 17 (the injury) had been 8 miles. I did four plus times that. Today (the day after), I have the normal soreness and no pain at all where the original injury was.

So, off to the next race - the Susquehannah 25 Mile Hike & Run!

See you on the roads!

Injury Update

2009-07-19T08:59:00.006-04:00

Well it has been almost two months since I last posted on my blog. I was on pace and had just finished running the Green Bay marathon with my brother, Nathaniel, for a 2,500 mile year. Running was going well - prepping for the Burning River 100 Miler in August. Then....

....on June 17, I tore my right soleus calf muscle.

Went from running 60 miles a week to zero in an instant. Even had to walk home while on that (supposed to be 8) six mile mark.

Doctors orders were no running until the pain subsided, and he stated it would be approximately a month. It was about two weeks, and then back to light running.

I am slowly making my way back to the roads with a new appreciation for all those athletes who suffer injury. But...at least it wasn't like this:

These guys had a worse day. They were testing a new shark repellent device. It was an item you attach to your calf muscle area while surfing and it was supposed to deter a shark attack. In testing, it attracted this Great White - who thoroughly downed the device in one bite.

The morale of the story: In running, it could always be worse!

Green Bay Marathon

2009-05-25T19:14:00.006-04:00

Hello Sports Fans!

Couldn't be any better than to have an awesome day to run...but wait, how about running a first marathon with your brother! That tops it all!! Yup, that is what happened last week Sunday (May 17) when Nathaniel and I ran the Green Bay Marathon! Woo - hoo!!!

Here is a pic of us at the finish line:

How about the beginning video as well! Well, here is that one too:

So there you go. What an awesome day we had! It was also pretty darn cool running through "The Wall" at mile 20. Take a look at this:

Pretty darn cool! Don't you agree!!

Thanks Nathaniel for an awesome, awesome time!!!!! I love you Brother!

A nice 16 mile run through the fields of northern Frederick County!

2009-05-09T10:14:00.001-04:00

&amp;lt;a href="http://www.mapmyrun.com/run/united-states/md/thurmont/428202540599"&amp;gt;Wilhide 16 Miler&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;&amp;lt;br/&amp;gt;&amp;lt;a href="http://www.mapmyrun.com/find-run/united-states/md/thurmont"&amp;gt;Find more Runs in Thurmont, Maryland&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;

2009 National Marathon

2009-03-29T21:13:00.002-04:00

Well, here we are at the 2009 SunTrust National Marathon in Washington D.C. Awesome marathon - and I set a "personal best" time of 3:21.11!! Below are some pictures and videos! Enjoy!

Run on 3.21.2009

Nice pre-morning weather we had!

Here is the start of the race - beginning! Woo Hoo!!!!

Here we are at mile 2. As you can see, it is a slow pace due to so many people!!!

NOTE: This is a works in progress. More content and videos to follow over the next few days.

JS

Update on Moab 2009

2009-02-02T16:12:00.002-05:00

First, I have spoken with many who understood how difficult the Moab Edition of the Ultimate XC Challenge was and will be for 2009. This last year was its first year. I don't think it could be said any better than what the race director, Dan, has posted on the website. Here is the updated text:

Moab Utah, November14th 2009( registration will open on March 1st 2009)

Internationally known for its Mountain biking, we will now take you on this spectacular terrain on foot. The land of the surreal and home of canyons. The Ultimate XC series has build a reputation for creating courses that are unique, diversified and beautifull. Believe me we will not fail you on this one.

Danelle Ballengee; world class athlete, will be the course setter for our first Offroad 50km, 20 miler and 10 miler in the Moab desert. The secenery will be spectacular. We will take you where very few people have ever been before.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

All our courses are very well marked. They do not require navigation or using a compas.

BEWARE:

No baby allowed. Most of our distance advertised are wrong. For instance our 10 miler turned out to be a 13 miler. Our 20 miler was really a 24 miler and our 50km was in reality a 56 km.

This is not a normal or standard 50km. The Ultimate Xc Moab Edition 50km is considered as one of the hardest 50km on the planet. Most of our particpants will attest that this is as hard as a 50 miler.As a rule of Thumb, if you can run a 50km in 6 hours ;count to run this one in 9 hours. Yes 50% more time to complete the same distance. If this sound like a daunting task, this race is probably not for you.

We were sold out last year and probably will be again in 2009. Their is no BULL in this statement. 30% of our runners registered in 2008 to the 50km decided to call it quit after 20 miles. Make sure that you register to the right distance.

If you are up to a major challenge, this is for you.

Dan Des Rosiers

So, there you have it! I told you it was the toughest race, and the most difficult thing I've accomplished in my lifetime!!!

Dawg

Burning River 100 Miler

2008-12-31T17:33:00.002-05:00

Yup.....gonna attempt in 2009 to do the 100 miler! Oh my.....now I really have to train! LOL

Ultimate XC - Moab Edition - T-Minus 1 Day

2008-12-24T13:42:00.019-05:00

November 14, 2008

Well, I am continuing this journal on the advice of Pam. And, she is right - I need to get this down on "paper" before I forget the details of the two days.

This is Friday, the 14th. I stayed on East Coast time, so my day began at 3 a.m. After lounging around for a few hours while drinking about six cups of DD coffee, I decided it was time to look at what I wanted to do to spend the day. After all, I had all of Friday to motor around if I wished.

I went online - looked through the travel guides, even read through the local Moab papers. Helpful? Nope. The first task of the day was to find where the Kane Creek parking lot was. So, out the door (finally) I went at about 8:30 a.m. But, prior to that, I found a very fortunate recent post from Dan the Race Director instructing us that we could check out the first six to eight miles of the course if we wished - that it had already been marked.

So, out the door to find the lot. After a few miles of searching, I was lucky to find the right road that led to the lot. There were two gentlemen setting up the "Home Base" for the next day. In the moment, I didn't realize that one of the two was Dan, the Race Director. And, straight from Canada and very much helpful.

After advising me where to park, he came back up and began to discuss the trail with me. No sooner had he started, then a couple from Canada pulled up. Dan knew them - it seems like he knows all the runners in Canada!

Well, to the four of us, he began to describe the trail. He spoke of peaks and valleys and the challenges that the runners would face the next day. When he finished, I felt a bit of trepidation as to his description of the course. I could see clearly that my original thought of "this is going to be easier than Jay…" quickly fell away.

The four of us walked down to the start. At that point, I realized I was in the wrong shoes and wasn't prepared to run the trail. I had even forgotten my Garmin. So, being completely unprepared, but awestruck by the beauty of the place, I decided to head back to town to purchase a digital camera.

I had no idea which camera to get, but I was happy with the choice I did make. Then, I had to return to the hotel to charge the battery. This was also very opportunistic as I had two unrelated tasks that I had to complete for home.

Back at the hotel it took about an hour and a half for the battery to charge. I ate a light lunch and then began to prepare to return to the trailhead.
As I left out, I was excited about the adventure that awaited each of us for tomorrow. Who would finish? Would someone seriously hurt themselves? Would I have the strength and willpower to finish? I decided the only way to know was to get a sample of the trail.

Off to the trail, I took several pictures of the beauty that surrounds this place. Moab is an absolute jewel of a place. The rock formations and the majesty of the place takes one's breath away. It is difficult to describe, and even having taken the pictures, it doesn't do it justice. But, I was so thrilled that I purchased the camera.

The Trail

The beginning of the trail starts out with about a mile of sand. If you've never run through sand, you can't. The secret, which I would perfect the next day, was to take small "hops" rather than run. Running simply tired the legs out - again, another thing I'd learn the next day.

I ran the two miles into the trail and thought, "Well, this isn't too bad." I was easily deceived the next day as well when I ran the first 10 miles in just over an hour and a half. I thought, as my video said, "On pace…doing well….look to finish in six." Was I ever wrong.

The Day of the Race

Race day. Up at 3 a.m. Difficulty sleeping the night before. Too excited. Nervous. Worried. Concerned that I'd either not be able to finish or even start.

As morning approached, I became more and more nervous. But, at 7:00 a.m. it was time to head out. The drive to the start was filled with anticipation. The air was cold - about 27 degrees at the start.

Arriving at the designated parking area, I met a man from Ohio. His name was Mike, and the first thing he said after introducing himself was, "Why am I here?" He was filled with dread. One look and it was pretty sure he wasn't going to finish. Unfortunately for him, I passed him coming down the 1,400 foot cliff as he was going up. He was going to run out of time.

The race started at 8:30 - on time and we were soon to find out that it would be longer than expected. Very few runners heeded the advice given out by Dan to "take it easy over the first six to eight miles" - myself included. The first out was relatively flat, fast and smooth. As a point of reference - the first ten miles was run in just over 90 minutes. The next 24 miles took over six.

The First Ten

The highlight of the first ten miles was as we came around a bend of rock. We had been climbing for about two miles through miles 7 and 8. As we came around the bend, we realized that we were at the top of a cliff. A literal cliff. The route down was about 18 inches wide, and if anyone tripped, they'd fall surely to grave injury or death. There was even one point on the cliff that the runners had to hold on to a rope to help themselves along. This was fast, furious and adrenaline pumping running. It was intense.

I don't know if you've ever run down a cliff. There surely is a technique - but I am not the one to ask. I, along with many others, pounded down. I'd later learn that my body would tell me this wasn't a good idea. But for now, fortunately as far as I am aware, no one was injured or fell.

At the end of this first 10 miles, we made it to Aid Station 2. A short time for a rest and celebration.

The Next Twenty-Four

At mile 13, we had a one-mile run through the sand. As I had mentioned, there really is no good way to move through sand. I thought I was doing well, but was already slowing down and had seen enough sand. I 'd learn later that there was much more sand to come.

At the beginning of mile 14, we began a climb up the side of a cliff - yes, a cliff. It was one mile to the top.

At this point - mile 14 - my legs began to cramp. I had serious thoughts of dropping out when I would get along to the next aid station (mile 17). After what just went on and on, I finally arrived at the top. I was now on top of the world - literally. I began running lightly only to be slowed by cramping in my legs. It began in my calf muscles but later became both legs.

Running on Rock

Dan called this an Ultra. I'd call it an Ultra Adventure. The word "trail" is used very loosly here. After climbing the mountain, we continued along on a flat pathway of stone/rock. And, as the saying goes, what goes up (us) must eventually come down (us, again!).

We came to a pass that was roped with about 200 feet of single track. This section you had to hold onto the rope as you made your way at about a 30 degree angle. Should you lose your grip or trip, an elegant 150 foot drop awaited you. This was technical, and I have to tell you - scary. Much of this race involved fear. More on that later.

At the end of this area we made our way to mile 17.75 and the next aid station. More Heed; more electrolytes and my legs were still hurting - big. I was now considering bowing out at mile 20. I still didn't know that mile 20 was really going to be mile 22.75.

Onward from there, we continued down the side of the mountain on a single track trail that resembles a run on Wolf Rock back home. It really wasn't a trail - more loose rock, gravel, stone (and not level stone) and more sand. Imagine that.

Getting to the "half-way" point - Mile 22.75

At mile 22 the thought of bowing out - while still a thought, once I met up with Dan, he assured us it was "only 9 more.

Conclusion

Little did I know that some of the most difficult running was still ahead of us. At mile 26 we climbed the side of a cliff - yes, a cliff - using a 1 inch nylon rope. Yes, a rope. At mile 26! Do you have any idea how tired the legs and muscles are at this point? I didn't think I was going to make it up.

From there, we continued through the desert to the road. Flat. Flat road. Cool. It looks like the last part of this Ultra would be easy. At mile 27, we came to the base of a 1,400 foot rock cliff at a 9% grade. Straight up. Aching quads, calves, body, mind. But, a mere 50 minutes later we saw this:

Moab Utah!

A final run through the sand pit (1 mile) and the descent down the same 1,400 foot rock wall and alas…it was back to the ROPE! Climbing down! This was the best part as the finish was now a half-mile away.

Finish

Finished! 8:17:34.

Made the cutoff time of nine hours. This was the most difficult run; the most difficult endeavor I have completed to this point.

What I learned:

You are only limited by what your mind says you cannot do.

You are able to overcome all obstacles.

You can endure much more physical pain that you believe you can.

Completing this Ultra made me believe I am capable of anything.

Completing this Ultra makes me want to run the next.

Ultimate XC - Moab!

2008-12-24T13:30:00.001-05:00

November 13, 2008

Well, the day started at 3:45 a.m. That was when the alarm clock went off and I actually did get up and pour a cup of coffee!! LOL

One of the things I didn't do when I ran the Jay Challenge in July 2007 was a daily diary of the adventure. Jenny and I had some interesting times...especially crossing the border that year into Canada...and our run in with Inga the Canadian Mountie!

So, this trip I am going to attempt to do just that.

Tomorrow I'll be looking for a small digital camera I can take with me on the run. But first...I digress...let's go back to the beginning...

Chronology of the day:

4:08 a.m. - Hit the road for BWI

7:00 a.m. - Moved down the runway at a whopping speed of 200 miles per hour (takeoff speed for a 737 jet - and it can actually take off at 185 - but at 180 takeoff it falls out of the sky!)

Note on the flight: Sat next to a mom and her daughter. Mom was 71 years old and the daughter tried to tell me a.) she was single and b.) she was 37. I ended all conversation down that line when I said I was 82! But, I did find out they were staying in Vegas for five days and planned to spend (lose) $10,000! Yikes!

Seems like such a waste to me...but, they were going to have fun.

12:15 p.m. EST - Landed in Vegas and was re-indoctrinated into all the slots bells - no jackpot winners while I was there though.....

1:35 p.m. - Movin down the runway again on our way up to Salt Lake City.

Note on flight to SLC...well, actually...just the hairpin turn we took over the lake....the one that looked like we were going INTO the lake......

I didn't realize Salt Lake was such a scenic city. The mountains had snow at about 7,000 feet and up. Plus...the highlight of driving through the city on my way to Provo and then Moab.....yup...there was a Mormon church on every street corner. I counted 17 Mormon churches and one church of Christ. No Catholic churches.

After the wonderful 9.5 hour flight time including the hour layover, it was time to drive.....for FOUR hours......Yeah! The highlight of the drive: beautiful rock cliffs; viewings I am certain of the Jurrasic age in the sediment stone...and about seven ICBM sites left over from the "cold war." Oh, and the Rocky Mountains just before turning off of I-70 to head down 191.

So, at what amounted to 8:30 p.m. EST I pulled into this humble abode - The Arches Inn.

If you want to see the terrain....I learned tonight that the course will be run through Arches National Forest.

Went and got groceries....and TSA nor Southwest stole my Dunkin Donuts coffee...so I am SET! And, a bit excited for Saturday morning.

Tomorrow I am going to do a bit of exploring, but not too much I don’t want to be fatigued for the run Saturday.

More to come tomorrow - with some pictures too I hope!