RR: Massanutten Mountain Trails 100

Massanutten Mountain Trails 100
May 17-18, 2008
Front Royal, Virginia
Miles: 101.8
Elevation: 23,000' Gain/23,000' Loss
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Pictures are HERE

I was hoping and planning on coming home to sit down and right an exciting race report about how I tamed the rocky beast known as MMT by running it in under 27 Hours. Instead, I am more than pleased to write about how the beast tamed me and how I was lucky enough to survive my first trip to the Virginia hills. I have many thoughts and feelings about what happened in Virginia this weekend. The main feeling is the feeling of accomplishment. That even though I didn't achieve my immature time goals, I still accomplished something by finishing in the middle of the pack in an amazing field of runners during one of the wettest years in Massanuttens 15 year history.

For MONTHS heading into this race, all I heard about was the rocks at Massanutten. The race prides itself on being a notoriously rocky course even donning the motto, "Massanutten ROCKS!" I personally thought that race as a whole really did rock... but not because of the rocks everyone talked about ad nauseum. Coming from the Granite State of NH, having hiked and ran on REAL rocks for the last 15 years of outdoor adventure... I truly and honestly thought that the rocks at MMT were NOT THAT BAD AT ALL. However, I can see how someone from a place where there are no rocks similar to what they find at MMT could find the course very difficult and at times daunting. I think they were over-hyped and at times a joke. The REAL demon at MMT are the monster climbs. Long never ending climbs that take every bit of energy from your soul and suck the life right out of you. The hills caught up to me late in the race... and this is how the story goes...
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The night before the race I went to the bathroom at Skyline Ranch resort and while I there I heard some conversation between fellow runners. I'm not sure of all of their names, but two of the guys were the RD's from Hat Run (I believe) and they were SUPER nice. They were talking to a guy from PA who I referred to as the "Suck Guy." This guy stood in the bathroom and collectively talked to all of us 100 Mile Veterans as if this was our first 100 Miler ever. He described the course almost in its entirety and told us all about what sucks. Short Mountain... Sucks. Kearns.. Sucks... Bird Knob... you guessed it... It SUCKS. Just as I was getting ready to step out of the bathroom, Tom Sprouse walks in and gave us what I thought was the equivalent of Moses coming off of Sinai with the stone tablets. The ONLY man to have ever finished MMT the previous 13 times was giving us the advice. He said, "This race is a mental race. If you expect to finish, you must keep your head in the game." AMEN! It was with this last bit of advice that I headed to the tent and retired for the night, truly excited for the adventure I was about to take on.

The pre-race breakfast was great. Bagels, juice and other fruits was a great pre-race meal. I was well rested and ready to run after having a good nights sleep. We stood on the line in the chilly morning air and as the command was given, we headed off into the mountains of the Blue Ridge in Virginia. As we made our way down the pavement of Front Royals back roads, I shivered. I had enough clothing on but for some reason my body was not keeping me warm. And then... behind me I heard him again... the "Sucks Guy." Once again I heard him describing to a runner how much Short Mountain... SUCKS. I let out a big UGH! and spoke to myself out loud.. "This sucks, that sucks... if it sucks so bad why are you here?!" He didn't hear me, but I was pretty upset by the negativity. Where this IS a mental race, I think hearing MORE about how much its going to suck and MORE about how rocky it is, is not going to make it any easier or more enjoyable. We took a left and headed into the woods which greeted us immediately with a deep and slick patch of light brown mud. Those who were not careful slid around... after the mud was the first section of rocks. I heard a female runner fall behind me. At this point, most people would offer her a hand up and ask if she is OK.. the "sucks guy" scolded her, "YOU HAVE TO BE PATIENT!" Now my patience was gone and I needed to get away from this guy. As we hiked up-hill, I did my best to distance myself from this dude.

The first climb was long and winding. Up and over various sections of rock, though the rock was nothing I hadn't seen before. I made it a point to myself to be very patient and hold back. Walk the uphills and run the flats and downs. I had plenty of insight from Steve and Deb Pero, Hans Bauer and others who gave me great advice on how to tackle the race. I made it a point to run as if someone had attached a set of reigns on me and was pulling back on them. I would hike the uphills at a steady yet easy pace... and not pay ANY attention to where I was. I knew two things. I started at "A" and needed to get to "B." A is the start and B is the finish. After topping out on the top of the first hill, I decided to give it a go and pass most of the group I was running with which included Kerry Owens. Every chance I got to pass some runners I took, hovering over the rocks and plodding down the course. As we exited the trail we came out onto an old logging road and that's when it hit me first. STOMACH ISSUES! My stomach gurgled and turned.. I felt horrible and dove into the woods through pricker bushes to take care of business... my day started to unravel but at this point I had no idea what lay ahead for me. I ran into Shawl Gap and managed to clean up fine. I was in an out of here as quick as ever at an aid station, testament to my fine tuned crew. Shawl Gap: 6:44 Am Right on Time.

I left Shawl Gap and ran along the gravel road talking with a few fellow runners. I felt better and continued to take my time, being very patient. I passed right by Veach gap without stopping at 7:21. "Hot Pancakes!" It sounded delicious, but I was still worrying about my stomach at this point. I climbed to the next ridge and ran along the ridge with a HUGE smile on my face. I figured out a way to tame what rocks there were. My plan was to simply visualize running on a section of trail at home that closely resembled where I was. At this point in the race, I visualized Franconia Ridge. I ran into Milford Gap and enjoyed some fruit and topped off my fluids before continuing along the ridge. I was playing leap frog with the same runners and we began to notice. They would barrel up the climbs and I would barrel down the descents. Either way, I was loving the course and loving the day.. life couldn't get any better.

Just before Habron Gap aid station, while running along the long winding road that abuts the Shenendoah River (gorgeous!), I heard him AGAIN... the "Sucks Guy." This time he was talking about a different race that "sucks." I let him get ahead as I once again dove into the woods with stomach issues. I was now getting worried and frustrated. I arrived at Habron Gap at 9:57 Am and Paul and Sarah shoved some PB&J down my throat. My crew was working AWESOME today. Force feeding me, giving me what I needed, cooling me down and keeping me focused. I told Paul here that this was was all about "Discipline." The amount of focus I used to run over the stones, remain composed and try to remain patient was in an of itself, tiring. But as tiring as it was... I knew that I was doing it. That's all I can ask of myself. Damon Lease, an Ultra-Runner from VT, offered up bits of very valuable info to myself and my crew at each aid station. At Habron they warned me about the upcoming climb to the ridge. The second longest climb on the course.. take my time. And so it was..

I hiked slowly back up to the ridge and just enjoyed the sounds and smells of what would be considered summer in New England. Kerry Owens was right behind me and the same group of leap froggers was in front of me. I vowed to take it easy and just mosey up to the ridge and take it from there. Parts of the trail was pretty narrow with a long fall down a steep ridge to the left of us. I just kept moving and hoped I could stay on trail. Once on the ridge, I picked up the pace and moved right along. I walked most every little uphill and on the downhills that were steep, I stopped to walk to preserve the strength in my quads. I saw a group of hikers coming into the woods and behind them was a large group of Boy Scouts out for their weekend trip. As I ran by I asked the leader, "Boy Scouts?".."Yes".. "Remember to teach these Boys that they can do ANYTHING." Before arrive into Camp Roosevelt.. once again... I ducked into the woods. It was now apparent that I had diarrhea and I was not sure what was causing it. I spent the next 25 Miles trying to figure it out.... Camp Roosevelt: 33.3 Miles Done : 12:25pm

At Camp Roosevelt I changed my shoes and downed some soup. The day was certainly getting hot and a bit muggy. Paul told me that he was informed that the worst of the rocks was done with. I was actually pretty disappointed as I had hoped the rocks would have been more of a challenge then they were. My feet were wet and starting to blister from all of the water and mud on the course, to which I was told was unusual. Regardless of what it was, I was still on ONE mission... get to the finish. I changed shoes and socks and knew that at some point, I'd be popping blisters and taping toes.

I left Roosevelt and began a long wet climb (after the 1st mile) that seemed to never end. The first 2 or so miles out of Roosevelt was run right up a creek bed. The water was flowing and the mud was deep in spots. The field had now spread out quite a bit. Runners were spending more time in aid stations, I just wanted to keep moving. High up on this mountain side, I noticed the remnants of an old forest fire. Charred trees and earth all around and the green sprouts of new life rising through the old. Re-birth is often something I think of during these events. My skeleton tattoo tells the story. In these races, you tear yourself apart and are reborn to get to the finish. The sun was beating down on me and the breeze in here was null. I really felt like I was hiking through hell but kept moving forward. As I topped out on the ridge, I ran down the other side. As I ran into a section of switch back, I made a turn as I heard a hiss and SNAP! from out of the brush behind me. I quickly scurried forward and looked back to see a pissed off Rattlesnake that had lunged at me. GLAD IT MISSED! I was not pretty nervous and ticked off myself. The one thing I did NOT want to see was a Rattlesnake. I took the next switch back and down trail I saw 2 runners hunched over looking curiously into a tree off trail. As I got closer, I heard the rattle and they told me there was a rattle snake. I looked in and there it was. A yellow Rattlesnake, curled up ready to strike if need be. I was NOT hanging around and scurried down trail into Gap Creek I Aid station. 1:56pm

I left Gap Creek after more food, yummy grilled cheese!, and started my next climb. I didn't think this climb was too bad compared to the last two. I saw Aaron Schwartzbard sitting on the trail taking pictures. I swear he had a teleportation device because he was EVERYWHERE! I reached the ridge and came to a junction, I took a left and began to run along a rocky ridge. I passed another young runner and started to think... "Hmm... a junction" I continued to be bop along before turning to ask the runner behind me, "Hey!.. is this Kearn's?" When he told me it was I was shocked. I had heard a lot about how this place was horrible.. I ran the entire ridge until... Yup... back into the woods for some one on one time with "mother nature." But now I think I had the issue figured out. I think the diarrhea was being cause by the boost somehow. This thought was rather devastating. As I ran off of Kearns I was shocked to run into Serge Arbona. Serge had won Umstead in under 16 hours a few weeks ago. Was he tired? Was I too fast? I ran into 211E to a very loud and excited Dr. David Horton. He shook my hand and told me I looked great! My crew was ready, I took a seat and brushed my teeth. Sucked down my gels and drank some boost before heading up Bird Knob. At this point in the race I am 48 Miles in. I have not bonked once yet. I feel amazing, disciplined and patient. The diarrhea is getting to be a bit much and the chafe is getting bad... I left the aid station hoping to figure things out.

I ran and walked some with David Snipes "Sniper." David is an amazing gentleman in my opinion. He offered great encouragement and advice. The kind of guy who would all but wrap his hand around you to carry you through the course. He offered up some more advice, positive reinforcement and I took off on the climb up the knob. Bird Knob is the highest point on the course. As I made my way up to hill, the rest of the front runners were crashing down. It was so cool to see them all and they ALL looked great! As I neared the top, my issues once again took hold and I jumped into the woods through poison ivy. As I took care of the issue, everything burned. I went from a fast paced hike and running the downs and flats.. to a very slow , "Holy crap... this race just turned to hell." I know exactly how debilitating my chafe is.. In a race where I held steady on a Sub 24 Hour pace through 50 Miles.. was now being tossed for the sub 27. I struggled to Bird Knob aid where I used wet naps and Vaseline. Ate some banana and watermelon (so good!) and then turned around and headed back for 211E. When I got back to the aid, I was an hour later than I expected to return, sat in the chair and finally had to take stock of the situation. 58.2 Miles : 7:33 PM

I sat in the chair and peeled my shoes off. My feet are badly blistered. I don't dare touch the ones on my left foot. Instead I smear Vaseline into the skin fold crevasses on the balls of my feet to help quell the pinching sensation. I wrap my foot in pre-wrap and then athletic tape. Put the other pair of Brooks on and tend to my right. On my right foot is a monster blister on my big toe that rivals the one I got at McNaughton Park a month ago. I pop it and wrap my toe in tape. Care for the bottom of my foot as I did the left and put on the other shoe. I ask Sarah to give me my waist pack with my headlamp, paper towels and Body Glide in the pockets. I stopped drinking boost citing it as the reason for the stomach issues, and took my Pacer Paul. Paul was expecting to get me to that sub 27 hour finish and at the moment, I knew it was possible. I had a chance. We had no idea what lay ahead of us for the night...
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We left 211 and marched briskly up hill. I was still able to run a few flat sections of trail before we got back into the woods near the junction where we split off from where I came down off of Kearns. After the split it was slowly getting darker. And as it got darker it got more humid and muggy in these woods. I had a great time telling Paul about my adventure so far. As the sun set and our headlamps came on, the trail got wetter and we were once again going up a creek bed (well... used to be a trail!). We slowly picked our way along staying to the sides of the deep mud and chilly water. I had no interest in getting my feet wet again. The effort it took to avoid the water and mud was just too much. What life I had in me I now felt getting sucked out. It was dark, getting cold and I was once again wet and muddy in a 100 mile race. As wet as it was and as slow as I was now finally getting, I still loved every minute of it. I thought of the "sucks guy" and professed to Paul that I had no idea what he was talking about. So far, this race was the toughest and neatest race I had done yet. I was going to finish for sure. I had no idea what the time would be nor did I care.. the goal is to always finish. We stumbled into Gap Creek II for a quick break. Moreland Gap wasn't far from here. We took off and thanked Sarah.

Back up the long climb to the ridge on Kearns, but instead of the left I took earlier, we headed down into the gap on the other side of the ridge I had been toying with for the better half of the day. As we ran into Moreland Gap, I took a seat and tended once again to my feet. The blisters were bad and I re-taped everything. Snipes told me about the ridge being windy and to dress warm. I really appreciated his advice and grabbed a long sleeve shirt. The wind whipped through the aid station as stuff flew everywhere. Sarah Sat beside me and looked into my eyes. As I looked into hers... I knew that we were about to head into a bad place.
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Paul and I left Moreland Gap at 10:54pm. We headed into the darkness winding our way up another steep relentless climb. My climbing has slowed to a crawl. The chafe hurts so bad, my blistered feet are tender and it is taking my everything to get to the ridge. Deb Pero warned me about this place, telling me that there are many false summits and that you always continue to go up hill a little more. We made the ridge and a squall line moved in. The wind whipped at 30+mph, the rain was cold and came down sideways. All long the ridge the trail took us up onto the ridge then dumped us to the left. We'd run downhill only to run back up. Our pace slowed to 1 maybe 2 mph. We crawled. I weaved left and right in a drunken stupor. Paul asked that if I was to take a field sobriety test, would I pass. The answer was a laugh filled NO. Every tree stump turned into a human sitting on the side of the trail. At one point, as I moved my light, the shadow from a white rock made it move at the same time that Paul Burped. I thought it was a toad and I jumped 3 feet in the air. Paul asked what was wrong and I told him that I thought that rock was a toad. "You mean like the Southern Burping Toad?" Wise ass...

We continued along the ridge, very slowly and Paul told me that at Edinburg Gap I was going to sleep for 15 minutes. Yes Sir! It continued to rain off and on. The wind whipped and we finally made it to Edinburg Gap. It was now 2:20 am and it took us almost 3.5 Hours to go 8.2 miles. As I got to Edinburg I was cooked. I looked around the station and in my limited vision, it resembled a triage in a war zone. Runners laying everywhere. It was cold. I slumped into a chair and they wrapped a blanket on me. I drank soup. And as I closed my eyes, I began to shiver uncontrollably. They picked me up and moved me to the fire. As I sat there, they threw another log on. The fire burned so bright, I thought someone was shining a flashlight in my face. Phil Rosenstein was here working the station and he is a familiar face. He asked how I was doing, I was lucky to know where the hell I was. After 15 minutes, I put on my fleece pants and rain jacket and we headed back out onto the trail. Next Stop.. Woodstock Tower.

As Paul and I headed into the woods, I continued to use the patented "Sherpa Shuffle." I used my hands to spread my cheeks and tried to prevent further friction. The cafe is now so bad that it is down right annoying. My feet KILL. But the diarrhea has finally stopped. Was it the boost? Or something else I ate? Much to be learned. As the clock continued to tick, Paul got more and more tired. For the first time ever, even my pacer was hallucinating and going crazy. The 8 miles to Woodstock seemed more like 30. We were assured that we missed the station but just kept going. Paul wanted to sleep now and we almost stopped dead on the trail for another nap. I tried picking up the pace. I thought ym my grandfather. For 14 years he sat in a wheelchair unable to walk.. at this point in the race, after 80 miles of the most enjoyable hell I have ever been through.. I told myself to "walk damnit." Paul said a few minutes later, "I can't believe you're still walking." As I tried to go over a log, A whip-or-whil flew out from under my foot and I jumped back three times in rapid succession. (Paul said it looked funny.) I told him about the bird and not far down the trail we heard its noise. These things do NOT SHUT UP! They go on and on and on and on. They were cool at first. Now... we wished we had a gun.

We walked into Woodstock Tower. Sarah was tired and ready to be done. And so were we. The sad part was, we still had quite a few big climbs to go and over 33 miles left to cover. I thought about this concept only briefly, not caring where I was, how far I had come, how much left and how much time to get there. Finishing is ALWAYS the #1 goal and I was going to no matter what. Even if it meant stumbling in past 36 hours. I didn't care. I took no food, and no drink refills at Woodstock. I had given up on eating and drinking. Nothing tasted good anymore... the only thing I wanted to taste was success and a Long Trail Double Bag. I sat slumped in my chair as paul took a nap. I re-wrapped my feet again and felt sick as a dog. I wanted to throw up so bad. Sarah said I looked white as a ghost. Dave Humphreys had finally caught me and he sat in a chair next to me. We talked... I don't know what he said, I was in another world, crying inside and trying not to cry outside.

At 6:40am we left Woodstock Tower and headed for Powells Fort. The long relentless climbs at MMT had taken their toll on me and humbled me. This late in a race, you hope for aid stations closer apart... here they are 7 or 8 miles away. A long way to struggle before your next chance at some love. Paul and I quietly moved along. I think Paul was pretty pissed at me. What he thought was going to be a 13 hour run, was turning into a 19 hour death march. He wanted to be done as did I... I was enjoying it still.. him... I don't know. We pressed on. We got to Powell's fort where they were making breakfast. I wasn't hungry.. I wanted to be done. I was feeling less nauseas though and sprinted out through the field. We continued walking shortly there-after.

Elizabeth Furnace is 8 miles after Powells. Another long long time between aid stations with a big climb in the middle. The climb was long and tough. I had to stop many times, lean against a tree and take stock of the effort. We had to ford river crossings, more mud and water touched my tortured feet. Now it was so old it was funny. We struggled together, my pacer and I. Paul is training to run his first 100 Miler at VT in July... this was the best training he could have ever done. Over the ridge and we tumbled down into the furnace. As we approached the aid station, the sky clouded over and the rain began to fall again. We ate cold pizza at the aid station and we had 5 miles to go. I kissed Sarah goodbye and we headed off.

We had one more climb and it was here. I picked up the pace as best I could first passing Dave Humphreys as he limped with a troubled foot himself. I asked him if he felt at home here at MMT to which he replied, "Yeah except we actually have ROCKS at home!" Ahh... spoken like a true New Englander. I continued to push up the hill passing another runner and his pacer. A woman came running down and spoke to us about the DNF situation. Some of the names we heard were shocking. THESE people did not finish and here I was... still moving forward. I was shocked and also ignited. We continued up hill. Paul told me that at the top he was going to find a big stick and every time I walked from there to the finish he was going to beat me.

We started to head down the other side. Paul stopped in the woods for a minute.. and I rounded the corner to find a group of runners. I looked back and yelled to Paul, "Hey..!" I waved my hand and we were off. We passed the runners and kept pushing. I didn't want to be passed again. I was in 60th at The Furnace... how many more could I find in the last 2 miles. 99 miles into a race and I ran every step I could. Through streams and mud. Over logs, on gravel roads. We picked off another runner and kept pushing. Down the hill and turned onto the pavement, there was another runner walking.. we passed him, went up the hill and heard the music. I smelt the barn... lets go!

We headed into the woods and I gave it what I had left. I came here wanting to let it all out on the course. Give it all I had and leave nothing to spare. I did just that. Rocks, climbs, roots, mud, water, rattlesnakes, scortched earth, the evil darkness, pain and sickness... I had conquered it all in one of the top toughest courses in our sport. We rounded the corner and there it was. I was so damn excited to see it. 24 Hours... 27 Hours.. who cares! The goal of EVERY RACE is to FINISH. I came to MMT and took on the rocks. As I ran through the field I thanked Paul and them kicked it in. I gave it my best all out sprint and ran through the pouring rain towards the finish. As I got to the line, I slowed and jumped over. Shook someone's hand and gave Sarah a hug. I was all smiles. I was challenged... and I'd go back in a minute to take the challenge again. I finished... 32 Hours and 9 Minutes. Sarah had my chair ready and crocs. I sat down and she knelt beside me. We looked at each other. Tears welled up in her eyes.. she knew EXACTLY what this one took and she said, "I am so proud of you." As I drank back my favorite brew... that was all I needed to hear.
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156 Starters - 101 Finishers
I was 54th in 32:09

Congrats to Todd Walker on his impressive win and to Keith Knipling for giving it all he had for 2nd. Special thanks to all of those who offered advice and support before, during and after the race. The Pero's, Bedford Boyce, David Snipes, David Horton, Gary Knipling, Damon Lease... and many many more. Could not have done it without you. Also to the countless volunteers who were out there for numerous hours taking care of our needs, one of THE BEST organized races from the aid station/volunteer aspect that I have ever been to. Thanks to my sponsors: Brooks, Nathan, Nuun, Darn Tough, Peak Adventures and Long Trail Ale. I want to thank my coach Karl who told me that the only goal at MMT for me is to survive. HUGE THANKS TO MY CREW AND PACER! Sarah and Paul, absolutely excpetional work from them and I appreciate it. And lastly.. I want to thank my parents and Moe.. for again instilling in me the best advice I ever got in my life, "You can do anything you put your mind to."

Next Up:
Jun 14: Pittsfield Peaks 55
Jul 19: Vermont 100

And because the rocks were what I thought they were gonna be.. here is a special bonus video in honor of the course.

Massanutten Mountain Trails 100: Pre-Race

Race Director Stan Duobinis reports, "The long-term weather forecast calls for a partly cloudy weekend with high temperatures in the lows 70s on Saturday and Sunday, and lows on Saturday night in the low 50s. Perfect for running in the Massanuttens! And maybe, just maybe, no rain!"

Are you kidding me? This weather forecast is IDENTICAL to the weather we had in the 2007 Vermont 100 Mile Endurance Run and in that race I ran a very comfortable 23:19. If I was to sit and wish for weather for the race at MMT... the current forecast is what I would have wished for. So, it appears as though the stars are starting to align and the rest is clearly up to me. Too bad the race happens smack dab in the middle of finals week at UNH! DOH!

Many people run better on smooth single track trails.. and then others run better on rocky trails. Rocky trails are what I am used to and accustomed to. I imagine running at MMT and feeling right at home. I've had great correspondence with some friends of mine who have all offered bits of encouragement through their very own experiences at MMT, and I thank all of you. In 2006 while running in the Northern Presi's (rock garden al la mode) with Hans Bauer, he told me that I should run Massanutten. It was Hans who encouraged me and wet my pallet towards the famous "rocks" explaining how it is right up my alley and I could do well there. I registered for the race in 2007, only to have to back out due to Sarah's Graduation from The University of NH on that same weekend. This year... I'm going to take on those rocks and there is nothing that can stop me.

My goal race for this year thus far is actually the Vermont 100. Karl Meltzer has been helping me prepare for the run in Vermont this July... and I've been really gunning for this one. I've told many a people in the past how I'm afraid to really open it up and let it all out there. Afraid because I'm afraid of what might be unleashed from within. Would I scare myself? or would I disappoint myself. Twice now, I've unleashed the beast. One was a 9:47 finish at the JFK 50 in 2006 and the other is my sub 24 hour finish at last years Vermont 100, where after 88 Miles of running, I knew I had it in the bag and opted to walk and enjoy the final miles of the adventure. But this time, this race... this garden of rocks is calling for me... this is my bag, this is what I do... I run on rocks for fun.. this is why I started running... to take on mountains and to take on the rocks.. this is just another stop on my journey. But this stop, this time... I think it's time to unleash what is within... it's time to see what I'm made of. What CAN I push through? What AM I capable of? and WHO am I to become? I'll find the answers... and I'll find them in Virginia.

But while I rely on my spirit and rely on my training and rely on the encouragement of others... there's still the fuel that keeps the fire within burning bright... the fuel that I hate and the fuel that I could do with out. The fuel that is fed by the nay-sayers. I am amazed at how in a game, in a sport, filled with the encouragement of like-minded folks, there is still that contingent of folks who find the need to cast doubt. There are still those folks who will tell you how you won't or how you can't accomplish what you set your goals and dreams upon. Why is it that they do this? Is it because they are afraid to find out what is truly inside me? Is it because they are afraid that someone younger might be better than what they could put out? Some say its because they are trying to be "realistic." Well what IS realistic really? I mean christ... WE RUN 100 MILES! There is nothing REALISTIC ABOUT IT!

I've been told that because they didn't run a sub 24 on their best effort that I won't run it on my best effort. I've been told that it doesn't matter what I've hiked and run on here for years.. it still won't matter down there. I've been told that when I don't break 24... they'll have reason to "LAUGH AT ME," I've been told that if I break 23:50 they'll wear a shirt that says "Sherpa is my Hero," I've been told that if I break 27 Hours... they'll refund me my entry fee. And I've been told that running with your heart... is Bull Shit. Well I think in the world of Ultra-Running.. in this sport.. in this game.. All of the above is what is BULL SHIT. What IF this weekend becomes MY day? What IF this weekend I am capable of unleashing the beast and giving it my best? What if.... WHAT IF.

Paul Kearney, my pacer... said it best himself 2 weeks ago; "...It is very seldom that you don't reach your goals..."
There's a reason this is my pacer. An old school New Englander at heart who knows rocks as well as I do. A man with great passion and great pride for what we do and a man who has the heart to inspire in me what it is that will push me to my limits at my body's worst hours. What is Pain? What is Agony?.. this weekend I know no such words. I always ask myself before a race of this magnitude.. what am I willing to go through in order to achieve my goals?? This time the answer is... ANYTHING. There is no regard for life, there is no regard for limb.

I run for me. I run to achieve my goals and to chase my dreams. I'm not out here to silent the crowd. I'm not out here to prove you wrong., I'm not out here to prove anything to you. I have NOTHING to prove... I'm out here for me, I'm out here to test myself, to see what I am made of, what I am capable of and to find out more about who I am.. and it is through this that I will succeed. The only thing I run for involving you is to INSPIRE YOU. To change your tune, to get you realize that anything is possible.. that through determination and dreams.. anything can be accomplished. "You say I can't.. I'll show you I CAN." And I run for HIM.. my grandfather. Every time I lace up my shoes and move forward... I think of the life he lived. I think of the 72 years he lived to walk.. and the 14 he lived in a wheelchair. I remember what it was like to hold his hand as he passed on to the other side. I thank god for allowing me to be able to push myself.. and to do the things I do... just as I know you do as well. I know they both watch over me.. they both guide me... and if they will have it, if they will help me... I will stand victorious this Sunday Morning in the grass at Skyline Ranch Resort. Either way... if I break 24 or not this weekend... if I break 27 or not this weekend... I only care about ONE THING... and that is "LIFE".

Massanutten Goals:
1.) FINISH
2.) Sub 24 Hours
3.) Sub 27 Hours

You can follow this weekends race online through the race website at http://www.vhtrc.org/mmt

Special Thanks to my sponsors! Long Trail Brewery, Nuun, Nathan, Darn Tough Socks, Peak Adventures and Brooks Running. Special thanks to Van-ordenance for their financial support in this event!

Until next week...

Happy Trails

SJ
(Off to Virginia)

Rocks Part 4: Local Digs

If you are looking for the Dr. David Horton Interview about his upcoming CDT Record Attempt, please click HERE.

If you are looking for the Karl Meltzer interview about his upcoming Appalachian Trail Attempt, Please click HERE.
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Pawtuckaway State Park: In Raymond/Deerfield/Nottingham, NH, Pawtuck Offers a variety of landscapes. There are many trails leading to many special points of interest, including a mountaintop fire tower; an extensive marsh where beavers, deer, and great blue herons may be seen, and a geologically unique field where large boulders called glacial erratics were deposited when glacial ice melted near the end of the Ice Age. This place is nothing but technical trails littered with rocks and roots. Steep grades, dirt roads and long twisty trails with tight switchbacks. In an October Blog Entry, Nate and I ran Pawtuck. I run a 6 mile loop here with 2,000' of gain per loop and 2,375' of elevation loss. The thing about it is there is literally ZERO flat. You're either going up or down in unrelenting quad punishment from the hammering of downhills. Putting on the breaks here is hard to do. But one thing is for sure, this place is home to plenty of rocks. Mostly slab and "chicken heads."


Bear Brook State Park: Bear Brook SP is HUGE! On the book ends of the park are two short mountains, Round and Carr. Getting to these is quite a treat. The trails here are covered with baby head sized rocks, tons of roots and a real technical workout. You really have to keep your eyes open when running on some of the trails so you don't eat it. There is also tons of single-track trail that the Mountain Bikers coast on. Its perfect training for a rocky race as it provides a good mix of technical and non-technical running.

Fort Rock - Exeter, NH: Probably one of the rockiest places to run. This place is called Fort ROCK for a reason. Its a mountain biker heaven but you see plenty of runners here as well. One of the most technical runs on the seacoast. PLenty of short hills to practice cadence on and plenty of rocks to test your grit. Its nothing but Baby and Chicken heads... EVERYWHERE. Picking your way through here can be quite the task and a little painful. I've run here on many days where at the end my ankles hurt from all the twisting turning and rolling. BUt that was then... now I'm used to it.


The Belknap Range: A strenuous adventure that visits nine peaks in the Belknap Range. The Belknap Range is an L-shaped string of small peaks that rise 1,800 feet to the west from the southwestern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee. At the eastern end of the range, Mount Major, with its excellent 360-degree views, is one of the most climbed mountains in southern New Hampshire. At 2,380 feet, Belknap Mountain is the tallest peak in the range, which consists of fifteen named summits above 1,500 feet. This hike is a strenuous traverse from northwest to southeast, climbing over the summits of Mount Rowe, Gunstock Mountain, Belknap Mountain, Mount Klem, Rand Mountain, West and East Quarry Mountains, Straightback Mountain, and Mount Major. The hike involves substantial elevation gain and requires good route-finding skills, because there are many trail intersections on this route, some unmarked. less than 48 hours after the Stonecat Ale 50 Miler in November, I tackled this trail with Kevin Tilton and Dave Dunham, two mountain running legends. We completed the amazingly rugged traverse in 8 hours. You can read about it here.

These are just some more local places that I tend to train on. Before I became an Ultra-Runner, I was a hiker here in New Hampshire. While peak-bagging NH's 4000' peaks, I began to dabble in trail running. It is through my experiences in hiking these rugged mountains, the rock infested local digs, our easy Wapack excursion, the Pemi-Loop, the Presi-traverse and various other high mountain training runs that I am seriously NOT WORRIED about the rocks at Massanutten. I have the experience with rocks to pull off what some of you see as impossible. But hey... "Tell me I can't, I'll show you I can." Just because YOU haven't.. doesn't mean that someone else can't. I guess time will tell.

My pacer for MMT, Paul Kearney, ran the Wapack 50 Miler this weekend. At the end of the race he ran into Donna Utakis. Donna has previously won MMT. He asked her how the Wapack compared to MMT and she said that MMT isn't as bad as MMT and that in fact, if you made the Wapack a 100 Miler... it would be WAY tougher than Massanutten. This speaks volumes especially where I didn't think the Wapack was all that bad.

The Old Man Of The Mountain: NH is home to the Old Man of the Mountain. In 2003 it fell from its lofty perch in Franconia Notch State Park. It truely symbolized the grit and granite of NH's men and our geology. May 3rd, the day I ran the Wapack as a training run, was the 5 year anniversary of the Old Mans Falling. How much do I love rocks? So much, that I got this famous rock tattooed on my back..

The bottom line about my 4 part series on Rocks is that Virginia and MMT is NOT the only place on earth that has horrible rocks as far as the eye can see. I know some folks have a tough time with terrain like that... but I grew up with and have hiked and run on the granite terrain of NH for many many years. Its like when I was heading to McNaughton for the first time and everyone told me to "prepare for the hills," and when I got there.... I laughed my butt off at what they called "Hills" in Illinois. The bigger story there is MUD not hills. At the JFK 50 in 2006, people kept telling me that the rocky section on the AT was horrible... I blazed over it making it to Weaverton Gap wondering if I had all ready done the rock section and if I did... Where the hell was it!? Its all in how we prepare for these events... and what we are used to. Some folks run on rocks better than others, as evidenced by Brett Sarnquists SMATTERING of the Wapack TRail 50 Mile record this weekend as he ran sub 10 hours on a trail RD Bogie D claims is "NOT RUN-ABLE"... I think Brett proved it is!

Karl Meltzer has all ready proved that the rocks at MMT are run able. He's been training me since December to prepare for races like this and Vermont. And for those who don't know where Karl grew up... Its a place called New Hampshire.. where he trained and ran on the same rocks as I do.. and at the age that I currently am. And there is a long list of other elite ultra-runners who have as well... the proof (as they say) is in the results. ; )

ROCKS SHMOCKS!
SJ

Interview: Dr. David Horton

Name: Dr. David Horton
Age: 58
Residence: Lynchburg, VA
Birthplace: Marshall, AR
Years Running: A LOT

Ultra Experience: 3rd fastest ever on Appalachian Trail, 2175 miles in 52 Days 9 Hours - 3rd fastest ever on Trans-America Run 2906 miles - Fastest ever on Pacific Crest Trail 2650 miles in 66 Days 7 Hours - 3rd fastest ever on the Long Trail 272 miles in 4 Days 22 Hours - 1 of 7 finishers ever at the Barkley 100 Miler - 2 time winner of Hardrock 100, the first two.

Race Director of the Holiday Lake 50K, Promise Land 50K and the Hellgate 100K.
Former RD of the Mountain Masochist (25 Years) and 5 years of Trans-Virginia Runs.

This is Dr. David Horton. He is a professor of Kinesiology: Exercise Science at Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA. He has been a staple of the ultra-running world for over 30 years and this summer, his adventures continue. On June 7, 2008; Horton will begin his journey of challenging the Continental Divide Trail Speed Record. The CDT is a long distance trail spanning over 3,100 Miles from Canada to Mexico. I interviewed Dr. Horton about his upcoming adventure and here is how it went.

SJ: Doc, thanks for taking the time to answer a few questions with me. What is the current CDT record?
DH: 75 Days and Change.

SJ: What is your goal time?
DH: Sub 70 Days

SJ: What made you decide to run the CDT and when did you decide?
DH: Well, I've all ready run the Appalachian Trail (AT) and the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and as some folks know, the Triple Crown is comprised of the AT, PCT and CDT. So last year I was out on the PCT and I thought, "man..I need to do it." So, I spoke to my wife about it and she made a deal with me. She said that if I gave up directing the Mountain Masochist, then she'd be ok with me running the CDT. So on September 12, 2007; it became official and I decided that this is what I was gonna do. Ya know, the AT was pretty and the PCT was spectacular. I heard that the CDT is unreal so.. I've just got to do it.

SJ: Which Direction will you travel and why?
DH: South to North. I'll be starting at Crazy Cook Monument and heading north. 700 Miles through the New Mexico Desert, 6 or 700 miles through Colorado, 6 or 700 through Wyoming, 3-400 through Montana and then Glacier National Park.

SJ: Why did you choose to start on National Trails Day?
DH: Well I originally planned to start on June 5th which is the same day I started my PCT adventure. I got a call from the director of the Continental Divide Trail Association and he thought it would be pretty neat if I started on National Trails Day. So.. he asked me if I wouldn't mind so I said why the heck not. So June 7th it is.

SJ: Are you doing it as a fundraiser or benefit of any kind?
DH: Well, I don't feel like its for any specific fundraiser. I am doing it to see it. It's what I do and the lord will have me do it. I'm doing it for my friends who get excitement in seeing me do it and I do it for everyone at home is isn't doing it because they also want to see me do it.I also want to set an example.

SJ: In the movie "The Runner" your wife mentions how she hopes your PCT adventure would be your last. How does she feel about your CDT adventure?
DH: Well again, we made the deal that I would give up the Masochist and that was a pretty big deal for her since the race really took a lot out of me and away from us. She ALSO hopes this will be it but, she said any future adventure has to be under 30 days in length. There is still plenty of things I want to do and plenty of things I can do in under 30 days so, this won't be the last adventure. So, she supports and loves me and we've made a deal. And I should also note that JB is coming out to make a film about this attempt as well.

SJ: Will she be joining you at all along the CDT run?
DH: Well she might come out and visit me in Colorado, or she may not. She might come out for the finish or.. she might not. There are no definitive plans so far but she certainly supports me.

SJ: Who will be your crew?
DH: Jonathan Basham who is the Colorado Trail record holder is coming out to crew me from start to finish.

SJ: Will you be "fast packing" or relying heavily on your crew?
DH: Well a little of both. The CDT has some VERY long sections, 200 miles in some places, where the trail never crosses a road. So I'll need to be fast packing in those areas. But there will be times when my crew will need to hike in and camp to meet me at specific locations. They'll be at road crossings. It's not going to be easy.

SJ: Will you have any pacers?
DH: Clark Zealand is planning to come out to run with me through a few sections. He plans to run with me for 7 to 8 days through Colorado. He'll also have daily updates on his website www.eco-xsports.com. I have a few friends from out west who are planning on joining me but for the most part I'll be spending about 70-80% of the journey alone. However, I do encourage interested folks to come on out and join me.

SJ: What kind of weather will you experience?
DH: Everything. It'll be hot but dry in New Mexico, its a desert. There will be thunderstorms, rain, sleet, snow and hail in Colorado. It'll be hot in the Red Desert of Wyoming, not many people know there is a high desert in Wyoming. And then in Glacier National Park there will be some good storms, sleet, snow, rain. I'm just really hoping for no humidity because I really do NOT like the humidity.

SJ: What is your favorite kind of trail magic?
DH: Ice Cream. Mmmmm... Ice Cream for sure. Man oh man I love ice cream. And Chocolate Cookies but I really love ice cream. And also Ensure Plus. 350 calories per 8 oz bottle. Two of those, 16 oz and over 700 calories.. man thats a lot of decent energy right there so, I'll be relying on those.

SJ: Who is sponsoring your adventure?
DH: Ensure Plus, Mountain Hardware, Clif, Montrail, Kahtoola, Nathan, Eco-X, Black Diamond and Explorer Satellite Communications.

SJ: Thank you so much Doc an we wish you the very best of luck on your adventure as we follow from home.
DH: You bet and thank you!

April Recap

If you are looking for the Karl Meltzer interview, please click HERE.

If you are looking for the Wapack Trail Review Report, please click HERE.

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April ended last week on a pretty soggy note here in New England. April showers bring May flowers. After all of the rain we had, we better have flowers that rival those found in a rain forest. April was an "OK" month. I got my training in for sure and embarked on a tough race in Pekin, IL. After toeing the line in the 2nd annual McNaughton Park 150 Mile Race, I called it a day after 100 Miles of wet, cold and muddy conditions. I am still pretty upset about the whole thing and do indeed plan to go back to Pekin to take on the distance again, mostly likely in 2010 if the race is still there. If not, I'll take on my own 200 Miler in Pittsfield, VT.

Regardless, here is how April came out:
Miles Run: 214.88
# of Runs: 14
Avg Miles: 15.35 Miles (highest avg. ever)
2008 Total Miles: 858.43

Month Starting Weight (2/1): 152 Lbs
Month Ending Weight (2/29): 148 Lbs.
Weight Change: -4
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May is going to be an exceptional month. As you know we started it with the Wapack Trail Recon Run. This weekend I hope to get to Pawtuckaway for the first run of 2008. Massanutten 100 is less than 2 weeks away, we'll be hiking ALL Memorial Day Weekend and then a small group of us are running the 10 Bears Loop on the Vermont 100 Course. Finals start next week wrapping up my first year back at school as I hunt for my Bachelors Degree. I am switching majors to Outdoor Education moving forward.

Lastly, for those of you who enjoyed the Karl Meltzer interview, I'm interviewing Dr. David Horton about his upcoming Continental Divide Trail Record Attempt starting in June. You don't want to miss it!

SJ

Rocks Part 3: Running The Wapack

On Saturday, May 3, 2008; a group of us ran South to North on New Hampshire's historic Wapack Trail. What we encountered along the way was nothing less than classic New Hampshire terrain and the rocks I love to run on.

I woke up to the sound of rain crashing hurriedly against the window. Sarah is well asleep and I jumped up before the alarm to allow her some continued rest. Packing the night before allowed me some extra Z's. I drove the hour to Concord arriving at Nate's for 7am "Sherpa Time" (7:15) and we loaded into his Jeep for the 45 minute drive to Peterborough, NH. We met up with Steve and Deb Pero at the Miller State Park lot at 8:15 and waited patiently from Paul Kearney, who was driving from Burlington, VT to arrive. From here we travelled North to the other side of the Pack-Monadnocks where we dropped off our cars and squeezed precariously into Steve's Pick-up and headed South.

We stopped at a road crossing near the base of the old Windblown ski area to drop off food an water for our make-shift aid station before making it to Asburnham, MA at the Southern Start/Terminus of the Trail at the Mount Watatic Lot. This is where we would begin our days adventure. The entire trip here rain came down softly and in torrents and continued to spit as we poured out of Steve's truck. All ready waiting for us was Bogie D, RD for next weekend's Wapack Trail Races, and another runner named Melanie. Mel seemed a bit preturbed by the weather and was all ready talking about taking a short jaunt up the trail before heading for home. A wise choice on this gloomy Saturday.

We began our journey North on the Wapack Trail. From Watatic to Old Mountain Rd is 21 Miles of rocks, roots and mud. To learn more about this historic trail, I invite you to visit The Friends Of The Wapack. It was raw damp and cold this morning with the temps hovering around 39 degrees. When the wind blew it cut right through you. I was dressed in shorts, but kept warm through moving and my layers of upper body tech-whick. My buff helped keep the wind off my neck and even kept my ears warm no matter how ridiculous I looked.

The trail was an awesome mix of single track trail, logging roads, old ski slopes and snowmobile/atv trails. The rain from the last week has literally saturated the trail and left many standing puddles and pockets of slick mud throughout. It is certain to be muddy still for next weeks race and its this thought that has me wishing runners well. The other portions of the trail consist of lichen covered rock slabs which make for careful foot placement on slimy slopes; jumbles of rocks and entanglements of ancient root systems. We ran over and along beaver ponds, through backwoods backyards, up gravel roads and through rock walls constructed by revolutionary settlers and their teams of oxen.

As we climbed the first mountain to run along the ridge, the wind picked up and chilled us to the bone. The temp only rose to about 41 degrees with 20+ MPH winds that were at most gusty. A constant breeze kept us cool. The drizzle kept us raw and the off and on shoers questioned our sanity. Regardless of the weather, the Eight of us present (Myself, Nate Sanel, Jeff Waldron, Greg Stone, Paul Kearney, Bogie D, Steve and Deb Pero) enjoyed the training run immensely as we all prepare for our next adventures. Not far into the run we met up with Greg Stone who had run from the Northern Terminus to meet us at the South. With 21 miles under his belt on the day, he would head back with us for 21 more making his total run on the Wapack 42 Miles. Greg is an extraordinary athlete and gifted runner for sure. He told us that when he started at 5am, it was snowing on North Pack Monadnock.

The rockiest section of our journey has to have been Pack Monadnock and North Pack Monadnock as our pace was slowled to a delicate walk as we tried hard to not slip and fall with the prospect of breaking a tail bone. The lichen and mosses on the rocks, when wet, provide for some pretty slick travel. While descending Pack Mondanock on our way North, I slipped on some mud and fell to my rear end. As this happened I took a spruce sappling to the groin area that did a great job at scraping my left inner thigh, left hammy and left teste. The boys took a picture of the end result of the fall but not the injury (thankfully). It was not very comfortable but funny none-the-less.


I had a great time out on the trail with everyone. We certainly know how to make each other laugh and catch each other off guard with a good time. Its training days like this, over rugged terrain, in the mountains and adding time on our feet that make this hobby so worth while. The Wapack Trail will see me again under better conditions. Overall the course is amazing. I can see a few places where one could get lost if they didn't pick their head up, but it should never really be an issue that would cause you to be lost for hours on end.

The run brought us over the following peaks (Watatic, Pratt, New Ipswich, Barrett, Burton, Temple, Pack Monadnock and N. Pack.) for a total of over 5,100 feet of elevation gain and 5,000 feet of loss. The 21 miles took us 5 Hours and 55 Minutes to complete. Its days like today on rocks like these that I'll bring with me to MMT. Check out Nates Garmin readings by clicking HERE.


To see more photos of our run click HERE.

An Interview With Karl Meltzer

Name: Karl Meltzer
Age:40
Residence: Sandy, Utah
Birthplace: Philadelphia, PA
Years Running: 30
Running Accomplishments: 49 Ultra wins in 93 starts.
23 100 mile wins, most on earth by a trail runner (all trail races)
Awards: 2006 Ultrarunner of the Year, 2006 Everest
Award. More can be found on his BIO page on karlmeltzer.com

This is Karl Meltzer. Those of you who know him from the Ultra-running world, know him simply as, "Mr. Amazing." Karl is undeniably one of the best ultra-runners in our country, which is why there is little doubt that he'll break the record he is challenging this coming August. On August 5, 2008; Karl will beging his journey on Mount Katahdin in Northern Maine. He'll run approximately 2,175 miles south to Georgia where he hopes to become the new holder of the Appalachian Trail Speed Record.

I am humbled and honored to have had the opportunity to speak to Karl about his up coming adventure. Here is what he had to say:

SJ: What Made you Decide to take on the AT Record (why do you want to run it)?
KM: I figured I would try and raise the bar a little instead of running so many 100s. The AT is a new challenge and putting pressure on myself to succeed makes it that much more interesting. I have also talked with friends over the past few years about how cool it would be to do something like this and track it efficiently so everyone can watch me suffer. It makes for a good story, even if I don't succeed.

SJ: Have you been in contact with any of the previous record holders for advice?
KM: No I haven't... why? I like to plan things myself and see if I can succeed. It's my personality really. It's like having pacers...no thanks.

SJ: How are you planning on coordinating aid throughout your run, will you have a crew?
KM: I will have an RV with a small crew (yet to be determined) The RV is all set, the crew is being worked on. Backcountry.com is the driver of the whole project as they have backed me up financially as well.

SJ:How many days do you think it should take you to complete the run?
KM: I am trying to do it under Andrew Thompson's record of 47 days, 13 hours, 31 minutes

SJ:What sections are you most concerned about?
KM: Not concerned about anything really, but Weather in NH and Maine are the key places I hope to zip through (so to speak).

SJ: What sections are you most excited about?
KM: Can't wait to run in the Smokies, I'll be able to smell the barn there, I hope to still be moving well.

SJ: How much does weather play a role in this attempt?
KM: It'll play a huge roll if it stops me. If it's just raining, I'll be prepared.

SJ: As a NH native, are you worried about the weather in the White Mountains?
KM: Its the same as above above. Not concerned really, it is what it is...uncontrollable factor.

SJ: So tell me about your gear? What shoes will you wear?
KM: La Sportiva Shoes, Nathan Packs, Moeben Sleeves, Ryders Eyewear Sunglasses (when needed), Powerbar, First Endurance Products, NUUN, Red Bull. Dunkin Donuts Blueberry muffins.

SJ: Any neat gadgets we can expect to see?
KM: I will be using a satellite communication device sponsored by SPOT, we are hooking this up as we speak. The website whereskarl.com will have more info as we move forward on the technology.

SJ: Can we follow your progress from home?
KM: Yes, You will be able to follow my progress almost live with podcasts, live commentary, (I'll have a mini microphone the size of a news person's, and a camera too, micro sized) Again the website whereskarl.com will be the command center for all to watch. We also will have a map on that site where you can click on the line following the AT and all kinds of interesting stats will pull up. It's freakin' awesome.

SJ: Will you have any pacers we may know?
KM: I don't have any "pacers". Noone paces me, I set my own pace, to be blunt! I have a few friends hiking/running with me. I will not allow extra people to tag along, or I'll have to drop them somehow.

SJ: Whats your favorite kind of trail magic?
KM: I don't think I can discuss that, but music is my friend

SJ: How do you think the other AT travelers/hikers might feel about your run?
KM: Many on the AT will welcome the attempt. For those who oppose it, then so be it, I won't be distracting them in any way as I blaze by them. Ultimately it will be fun to watch on the internet once we get going and if I am on record pace or not.

SJ: Why North to South?
KM: Andrew has the record in this direction, it makes it fair comparing my run to his.

SJ: Why the late start?
KM: I have other committments right now with the Speedgoat 50k on July 26th, and I want to run Western (WS100) fast as well, so the combination of both (if I do break the record) will be an outstanding and full year.

SJ: How will this run affect your running plans for the rest of the year?
KM: I just won't run races in the fall

SJ: Any future plans to tackle any other long distance trails?
KM: Not yet, but it's in the back of my mind. It depends how this goes. With all the logistics involved, and the money it takes to do this, it would be hard to say I'll do it every year....probably not.

SJ: Why did you decide to get away from conquering 100 Milers and to conquering the AT?
KM: Bigger Challenge, higher bar

Myself and the rest of Team Sherpa Ultra-Running wishes Karl all the best on his record attempt this summer. You can check in here for commentary on his adventure as I hope to be joining Karl on his adventure's through New Hampshire. GO KARL!

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Resources:
whereskarl.com
karlmeltzer.com
backcountry.net

Rocks Part 2: The Presi-Traverse

If you missed part one you can view it HERE.

The Presi-Traverse

This is the Presidential Range of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. The “Presi-traverse” typically starts at the Appalachia Trailhead on US Rte 2. Runners then take any variation of Trails to the summit of the first and Northernmost Peak of the range, Mount Madison. From here, you travel south over the rest of the range. Runners are free to choose which peaks they travel up and over or you can decide to go around. Traditionalists like myself always go up and over each 4,000’ peak that counts on the AMC’s FTFC List. I also tend to get every bump in between.

Runners are free to decide which direction they travel. Some have been known to go from South to North. Southbound travelers have 3 decisions to make towards the southern terminus of the ridge. You can head down Crawford Path after bagging Peirce. You can head down after bagging Jackson. Or you can go all the way to Webster. The variation of mileages in continuing on to Jackson or Webster is minimal, however, the elevation gain and remaining sunlight is key in the decision process. I have also made the traverse longer in my times doing it, by running over to Isolation on an adjacent ridgeline and back. This easily made for a 31 mile day. The Traditional Traverse from Rte 2 to Jackson and down is 20 Miles with over 8,500' of elevation gain.

Factors: The Weather. 90% of the entire traverse is done above tree-line with little room for bravado. If foul weather moves in it will do so quickly. Not to mention that there are limited places for one to escape back down into the cozy confines of the Trees. New Hampshire’s Mount Washington is the highest peak in the Northeast and situated in such a way given the typography and movement of air currents, that it is home to the worlds worst weather. Average wind’s blow at hurricane force and of the 365 days of the year, the summit is in the fog for over 300 of them. Locals refer to it as THE ROCK PILE.

The geology of the range including and north of Mount Washington is vastly different than that of the range south of Mount Washington. On the north you’ll find rocks half the size of a luxury car. The rocks are sharp and jagged. They hurt to hold on to, they hurt to fall onto and you can’t avoid them. Moving is slow here except for the experienced few. From Rte 2 to Madison Hut Isn’t bad, but once you have to move between peaks, its an all out horror show.

To the south, the rocks are still numerous but more forgiving. Certain sections of the alpine gardens up high toss baby and chicken head rocks your way, perfect for ankle rolling. Moving briskly is a chore and should be done with care. Finally, the southern peaks (Jackson and Webster) are home to rock slab and krumholz. Back in tree line, you have to avoid a litany of roots and small rocks, stone steps and water bars as you try to run without breaking anything on tired legs.. to the terminus of the adventure.

I've done the traverse 3 times and you'll find one report below. I have also done many variations of the traverse. I've done the Northern Presi's Only, Southern Presi's Only and so on. I've trained here countless times and in all seasons. Just another day of running in the GRANITE STATE. I'll rely on these rocks also at MMT.
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Resources:
Here is a Presi-Traverse FAQ
Here is a Youtube Video
Here is another video
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Old Report:
Report from 8/11/07

Rocks Part 1: The Pemi Loop

This is a picture of the Twinway at its junction with the Bondcliff Trail, high up on the slopes of Mount Guyot some 4,000 feet above sea level. The rocks you see... are the trail. There is no single-track here, just a whole load of what NH's nickname is derived after.. Granite.

I've run on and trained on this section of trail specifically on various occasions over the last 4 years. This section of trail is by far my most favorite place in the entire world to come and train. Its rugged for many reasons, beyond which what the rocks can give me. The weather here is vicious. New Hampshire's mountains are home to the "Worlds Worst Weather" and the alpine tundra here is only seen in one other place in the world and thats the arctic tundra.


The trail leading up to this place is on one of my favorite training runs, "The Pemi-Loop." A 35 mile mountain run which I have yet to break 10 hours on. A run that starts with a 3,000+ foot climb up a mountain after a short 1 mile run. The loop continues with crazy ups and down around the "loop" which includes the famous and well travelled Franconia Ridge, The Garfield Ridge (seen above in the fog), the Twinway, Bondcliff and Wilderness Trails. The Garfield Ridge trail is a storied trail often considered one of the toughest 5 miles of the entire Appalachia Trail. Trail so rugged that on my first time there in 2005, I cried and begged for it to relent. The last time I was there, I made quick work of the ridge and reveled in the agony inflicted there.


(Franconia Ridge)

These are my training grounds. They call this the Granite State for a reason. The rocks here are like no where else. I've hiked them, crawled them... and I've run them. This is what I rely on to get me through MMT.

(Bondcliff)


You can read my old trip reports at the following links:
2007 Pemi Loop Run
2006 Pemi-Loop Run
(Next Up: The Presi- Traverse)