Ultra Training Has Begun

Just added to my race calendar: The Freight Train 50K in Farmville on Dec. 5. My 5th 32-mile race, if you can believe it! Back in the running boom days of the 1960s and 70s, ultras were for serious, elite-level runners only. Everyone is welcome now. Personally, I am happy to see the club disbanded. As every runner knows, regardless of the distance of the race the biggest part of running is the journey -- where the fun and the personal gratification meet. So if you're a runner and want joy, I've found your race. You may never win an ultra, but the race for fulfillment will be yours hands down. And that may be the sweetest victory of all.

Pics:

1. Training at the High Bridge Trail today -- since the race will take place here!

2. A run of 12 miles produced these steps. I used to think 12 miles was far, but it's only one third of a 50K ultra.

3. You've also got a 100K option. Me? Never! 

4. Read this and then tell me you wouldn't have fun out here! 

5. La Parota for lunch after my run today. When I said to my server after she asked me how I was doing, "Muero de hambre," she quietly corrected me, "Me muero de hambre." I love that! We're there to learn, right? Today I also learned how to say "May I have a water to go?" I would never have guessed it's "Puedo tener un agua de llevar." I was expecting "tener" or "portar."

6. Yours truly in his first 50K on the HBT. Friend, you already have what it takes to become a long-distance athlete. It's the mindset, not the miles, that separates those who do from those who only dream. 

Have a wonderful day!