Sharing the beauty of running Lake Tahoe & Truckee, California
by Helen 9 Comments
I seldom share the story of how I started trail running. I’m embarrassed by the clichés it embodies.
I started running to lose the baby weight.
I trained to run a half marathon with girlfriends.
I read “Born to Run.”
That was nine years ago. Then, the other day, I helped a Mom get to her car. She was juggling baby, coffees, pastries and the car key.
I live by lists. If you know me, then you know that. After many requests for my 100-mile ultramarathon drop bag list, I’ve finally taken a moment to get that information organized enough to share.
by Helen 5 Comments
Bring your A-team to your A-race
A dialed crew and pacer team can make a big difference in your 100-mile or any ultramarathon success. As you put together your A-team, consider what you need and who is suited for each role. This post specifically covers crew duties.
CREWing an ultrarunner has been described as dealing with Cranky Runner, Endless Waiting. Your crew will probably be awake as long as you, driving to remote locations with no cell service and limited to no restaurant options, all while possibly taking care of your kids.
by Helen 7 Comments
This is the first in a series of articles ultra marathon preparation and logistics – in honor of my husband’s first 100-mile race (Pine to Palm 100) in September. I am a planner and an organizer. If you are similar, then you will probably relate to much of what I write in these articles. If you are the opposite, you may appreciate some of the legwork that I put in to each race. Either way, putting some effort into your race-day logistics will help you and your support team have a great ultramarathon experience.
by Helen 15 Comments
I rounded a bend and at last, after some 50 miles, the trail was close enough that I could simply slide into the Northern Umpqua River. There I soaked, up to my thighs in the swift current, when a woman with trekking poles came around the bend and uttered a cursory “nice job” as she shuffled by me.
I love to celebrate birthdays, especially my own! I have been on the lookout for a birthday race since I started trail running about 6 years ago. Imagine my excitement to discover the Silver State 50/50 would fall on my birthday this year!
I experienced the Silver State Striders’ trail hospitality for the first time when I ran the half marathon there last year (read the race report here.) Since then, I knew that I wanted to return to this venerable trail race in Reno, Nevada.