The Music City Ultra was billed as a tough, rugged course with 5000 feet of vertical gain. The verti chart had 13 notable, short climbs. I was determined to make a play for this race - I have been laying low - training short after the birth of our second son. But with a fair showing at the Forget the PR 50k just a month earlier I felt encouraged and parlayed that fitness into a reasonable bout of training.

After an awesome show at the start (Braveheart reenactment complete with blue face paint and a horse)... we were off and I mean off! I felt like I had been shot out of a cannon - there was a steep climb not a mile in to the race and I knew better than to get stuck following a pair of buns up the single track. I wanted to be out front.

I was 3rd to the hill. We started the 50k with the 25k and 10k folks. I then passed the two fellows in front of me. This seemed a bit odd. I tore through the early miles with reckless abandon, coming into Aid One at 5 miles in 31 minutes. I looked at my watch in disbelief.

The steep short climbs came and went. I faltered a bit around mile 16 and hit a low point. I heard a twig snap and out of nowhere popped the first runner I had seen since the initial few miles. I had no answer at that moment and was forced to watch him bound away. It was still early so I felt I had time to reel him in.

The backside of the course contained a dreadful loop with endless creek crossings, high brush and evermore steep climbs. The sun was out and it was mid eighties by now.

Coming into the aid station at about 18m

The rest of the race was a painful mix of dusty jeep roads and roughed-in trails that were definitely roads less traveled. I dropped my S- Caps at 3 hours and chose not to stop. By hour 4, I was heating up.

One of many creek crossings - a brief moment of cool- Swiftwick 12 inch Aspires and
Solomon Ultra Sense (and Roy's Mtn Hardwear pack) were the perfect mix

When I finally broke out of the woods and back onto the field that led to the finish, I felt my legs start to cramp. It was a race against time. I finished 2nd oval in 4:40.

I will fix my eyes upon the Lord.

Good friend, Grant Castle, was gracious enough to score me some salt tabs and a banana at the finish. Once recovered, I got to announce my wife's finish in the 25k. Great race - great RDs and great volunteers. What a day in the woods.

Running Out of a Fog

Me, Wil Emery, Tim Dennis and Roy Well (taking the photo)
on Lost Mtn.

The blistering glory of crossing the finish line at the Burning River 100 Miler in 19:44 was the last moment I have felt the clarity that comes with racing. That was mid summer. It's now well into Fall and the whispers of winter are here.

The picture above is of my Swiftwick mates- and I running new found paths - dear paths, power lines, dirt trails and anything we can find. I find great joy in these runs - with men whom I work shoulder to shoulder with in an intense environment - we go out at lunch in search of adventure and release. We search out the unknown and the untraveled- stumbling on tree stands on occasion and signs barring our passing. Still, we press on - through the thorns and the brambled tangles of the forest.

Here I am at home and at least for a moment- the fog clears. I want to race. I want to challenge and train. But until I find that next mountain - I'll keep running and scrambling up the dear's path to find those moments of clarity. Keep running through the fog and look for that clearing up ahead.

God speed,

Jadyn

Burning River 100M - 2012

The castle walls were lit by the fiery engines of the generators. Their droning hum grew louder as I approached in the blackness. Little lights like firefly's sat atop the heads of the runners gathered and waiting, darting this way and that, putting on layers and taking them off and chattering incessantly with each other and their crews and families.

Ready Set Go Go Go!!!!!!!!

I said goodbye to my crew and made my way to the line and we were off. Running through a field at 5 am in Cleveland Ohio from Squire's Castle, we would run a series of trails and connecting roads to Cuyahoga Falls (Akron).

The mood was tense and few spoke but churned forward with our sloshing bottles packs onto what seemed to be a horse trail. The fairly smooth surface allowed for a quick pace and runners including myself jostled for position.Three miles into the race I said to myself "You have got to be kidding me." I certainly know better, we all do.

On the uphills I found my Chi running technique most beneficial. This sideways, cross step, arm swing gait is a tremendous leg saver at low speed and over long distances. I found I could use this technique where others would walk, doubling their speed using half the energy.
At mile 5 or so there was a split in the road and a female runner and I turned towards each other and in unison said "Which way?" A lead group had broken away but then it was us and some 70 or more  people behind us. I chose the right fork. Unfortunately at this point, we were already off course. After several stops and starts and "Which ways" and "This ways," I figure we added about a mile but for me it was a blessing. Because at this point I relaxed, settled into a comfortable pace, saw the folly and the humor and the joy all at once. And like pulling up to a nice big meal when very, very hungry, I was ready to dig in.

We came out of the loop that had encircled the castle, 6 plus miles (maybe 7 for us) at about day break. We then made our way through beautiful and majestic mature trees, the trail meandering. The day revealed cloud cover and it started to rain. It was a wonderful cool summer rain. I worked through the aid stations. My crew continued to surprise me by being at aid stations I had not anticipated seeing them.

This race had an element I, to date, had not experienced, a truly professional crew. By professional I mean, three individuals who were ultras and who knew exactly what was going on. Ben and Liz Pickle, and ultra-friend Ben Vanhoose are a picture of selfless-kindness and embody the spirit of the Ultra in my opinion.  Seeing them at the polo fields, the rain had turned to giant splashy drops. The green forest smelled of new growth and fresh earthen fragrances.  I passed through the aid station stopping only at their vehicle to change bottles and get some nutrition (no caffeine for the first 50 miles).


humid conditions but great support on course

From here I worked forward as the terrain changed, more rocky now, creek crossings, and I followed a runner in a Notre Dame shirt for what seemed like endless miles. I don't know why it struck me as odd but I had never seen an ultra runner wearing a team shirt like this. I just kept reading the same words, Notre Dame again. After a while they sound funny in your head.

From here we came out for a long stretch on the road where there were several hills that at the time made me very thankful for the countless lunchtime runs with my Swiftwick mates up and over the green hills of Brentwood and Franklin. I felt strong as I came into mile 26 aid station. I was relaxed, sat in a chair  and greeted by my crew and changed out of my K 3's and into my (Roy's) Bajadas. But refused a change of socks, my 12 inch white Swiftwick Aspires felt so good even wet that I decided to continue on in them. 

Mr. Ben Vanhoose makes sure
I keep my aid station visits brief but never
do I leave lacking.

Another element of Chi or effortless running is utilizing your core and upper legs while relaxing your calfs. Theory being that you can in essence use no more energy than that which is used walking at a low rate of speed running. It was working... to this point.

Note the incredible aid station dress

I remember very little about miles 30 to 50. I know it got hot as I came out of the woods at one point on a crushed gravel path that followed a winding river, I believe this was mile 50 and the path was the Tow path used by early settlers or something historic.  The heat and the humidity threatened to suffocate. I turned my white Swiftwick hat around, breathed through my nose and continued on, jumping over the small patches of shade as it would creep across the path.  It was here that I passed a runner, a prostrated soul, arms dangling, drenched in sweat, heaving and wheezing. He was cooked and it was early.  I passed and said "Good job" and then kept moving.

At 54 I would pick up my first pacer. I anticipated seeing my friends as I heard the hoots and hollers from around the bend.

Liz and I working through some middle miles

Liz section:
Mrs. Liz Pickle stepped up to take the first leg of pacing duties. I was still quite cognisant and able to joke a bit. We chatted and clicked miles off.  As we exited the aid station and I had enjoyed my first caffeine / red bull of the day, I expelled a massive burp.  And to this I told Liz that I would not be responsible for any noises that came out of me from this time forward. She laughed and commented "What happens on the trail, stays on the trails". We worked through the heat of the day, the beautiful trail and her positive outlook kept me from self pity as now I was well over 60 miles. One runner of particular note leap-frogged back and forth with me and eventually ran many miles with us. She was from NY, an architect, her boyfriend was there but was not running.  She ran without food or drink except a small bottle. I did not think her long for the race. Still we trudged on, making it to about 65 where Ben, Liz's husband - the captain of our merry band would meet us. She did really well in the end.

Ben Pickle section:
Ben Pickle is solid, in his words and deeds. He does not hesitate. As a pacer this instills great confidence in a salt covered, half naked runner. I had continually turned down my pack which I had promised myself I would wear, desiring to carry as little as possible. Two hand helds and a gel in my shorts. Ben had miles 65 to 80. And we worked through the late afternoon and into the evening. I recall coming upon a giant corn field and hearing a low murmur of an engine. Out of nowhere a massive tractor three stories tall with 75 feet of sprayer emerged, almost crushing Ben and I. At the time neither of us spoke of it nor altered our step. One of the key principles of this particular race that I wanted to embody was pulling both highs and lows to the middle. The sun was starting to fail as the shadows grew, we exited the field passing several now walking runners. Soon we were at mile 80 where Mr Ben Vanhoose would take on pacing for the last 20 miles. We arrived at the covered bridge with lights still in the sky. Christmas lights were hung in a swinging fashion from the rafters. I recall a powerful moment. I stood drinking a red bull still feeling good, staring at a runner splayed out laying on the ground with a towel on his bald head. It was the last 20 miles, now this was a contest as before a traverse. I had steadily passed individuals at mile 60 knowing that I had started much slower than most.  Here we go. Ben also had some magical 100 mg caffeine gels that he administered like a Dr. they helped in a pinch more than a few times. I also lost my ability to keep track of how often I was taking in S-Caps. Thanks to my crew for taking this on.

Ben Vanhoose section:
This would be the most difficult section of the race according to Ben. It is good to get to run some of it in the light. He was right. Gnarled roots and fairly steep inclines relentlessly came turn after turn. All I could think though was how I felt at mile 80 of Tahoe's 100 and what laid ahead there.  I am sure a thin lipped smile crept across my face. We worked into the night and my headlamp failed as always, Ben and I traded. I vacillated from pain to perseverance. We made it through the sketchy section, popping out on the road. But were far from safe as we passed an amphitheater where a concert was letting out. Running the road with no shoulder and cars passing. I was repeatedly ready to jump into the ditch.

I recall Ben telling me at one particular low point, "I'm gonna need a little more from you." This struck a chord with me and I was determined to answer. I knew what he meant, I had been threatening to walk, and I had more to give... it just hurt to give it, but the truth was... I needed to let it hurt, suck it up and keep running.

We made it to the Tow path and an aid station where a man in a coconut bra asked me how I feeling. I am not sure I had words to answer but mumbled something about keeping on. We made it to the many flights of forest stairs at mile 90 something. And luckily the rails allowed me to use my arms to pull myself up. I was passed by a runner at the top of the stairs, with about 2 miles to go.  We popped out on the road one mile out. Ben and Liz Pickle jumped out and we all headed in as planned for the last mile together on the road. With 3/4 mile or so to go we hit a large hill. In the distance I saw the runner who passed me... he was walking. I was filled with heat and uttered the words "I can catch him". Without forethought but in an instant I was churning up the hill. Breathing heavily, throwing everything I had into a final kick. As we neared him, all of us running, flying through the streets of Cuyahoga Falls, Liz shouted "We are going to catch him!" But to me he was quarry and we were not to alert the prey yet. Ten steps later, his light turned abruptly into my face and he started trying to run but I passed him as if he was standing still. He said "I've got nothing for that!" I was by in a blur. My legs screaming, alarms, bells, whistles, going off in my brain. My pain sensors overridden, full-on tunnel vision. The finish now in sight. Ben P. said, "That sign, the red numbers, at the end of the street. That's it, that's the finish"

uphill push to finish

I felt the rush and sound of wind of the three souls that ran with me and I no longer felt my legs but churned to and through the finish in 19 hours and 44 minutes for 15th ovrl. Later Ben V's watch read 7:23 pace for our final mile.

so close I can taste it!

finished thank you Jesus.

I was a lost and lecherous fool , Christ saved me and... I am now saved.

Thanks Swiftwick and Fleet Feet Nashville - I am honored to have such legit sponsors who rule.

I wore the same pair of socks for the entire race - Swiftwick Aspire white 12's. NO BLISTERS.

Jadyn M. Stevens

Country Music Marathon 2012: Heat, Sun, Hills and Home...

The sky turned a deep pink and purple as the first rays of dawn pierced the night sky, sitting at Starbucks at 5:15 am. It was race day- Country Music race day, for the city of Nashville and those involved it is a very special day. A day that is fueled by the participants and volunteers and bands and countless police and emergency staff that strike out before dawn to make it happen. It is an almost mystical experience. The atmosphere is rich with nervous yet happy energy... we are all here because we want to be... I however am not there yet... the Hawk is late, or Brian lost his keys or his wife changed her mind about picking me up. I fidgeted and drank my coffee calling the Hawk to no avail. They pulled up 5 minuted before I had decided my wait threshold was over.

I jumped in as we tooled to down town Nashville and were dropped of as near to the start as possible. It was already warm, I noted the sky - it looked like it was going to be one of those brilliant warm days perfect for most everything... except marathons. I shook it off prepped in the park and broke away from my compatriots who were a few corrals back.

I always pee in Centennial Park before the marathon, usually I don't have company- but today I had plenty, of both genders, we all sort of looked up awkwardly. Portapotty lines are for more serious calls.

I got to the start in corral one, and after the national anthem, we were off. I felt smooth and calm- this was all business. The miles clicked by and I made sure to drench my Fleet Feet Nashville Cheetah spotted yellow race jersey at every aid station. My plan was to pre-cool as best I could. It was going to be a scorcher. I cranked out mile after mile in the 6:30s and felt like I was still holding back.

The bands and crowds melted with the orange peels and music from my ipod, I was now in the rhythm of the race. The first part of the race behind me, I set my sights on the 2nd portion - basically an out and back to a non descript part of town heading toward Metro Center. Here the crowds are minimal and a runner must run... in some ways alone. I like it it's a great chance to click in ever further. I remember thinking - this is my home, I know these streets I know everything about them I can do this. This... for me was a fairly modest time goal - I am no road marathoner- I wanted a 2:50 or somewhere south of 3 hours for a PR.. I had certainly put in ths miles and speed work - all I needed was everything else to not go completely wrong HA!

Coming out of Metro Center at the turn around I noticed a thin crowd ahead of me, I thought it odd. I also noticed some very accomplished runners struggling. I caught several of the and passed them heading to the bridge. One bald runner, who was obviously a strong marathoner, stepped up with me as I made my pass, I knew we had a mile climb to Nashville Running Company -where my wife and boy would be waiting with a Red Bull at about 18. I asked if he wanted to work the hill together and we did, like 2 cyclists taking turns - we alternated lead and worked until we came upon a struggling runner. He was bent at the waist and spittle dripped from his lips, but as we passed he wrenched himself up and joined pace. He held until I saw Julia and my boy and then disappeard.

Seeing them was like a shot of adrenaline- I grabbed the Red Bull and shouted and smiled, I love you!" The streets of East Nashville dogged and cut left as we now were descending to 5th St. where we would begin our final push. My watch had crapped out, (as usual) so I now ran on feel- when I realized it, I burst into laughter. I knew this was a good sign. Early in the race I prayed for Christ to give me his heart for the run... I did not want to be afraid of the pain. I felt the heart of a lion as the miles clicked on inside my chest as I began to feel my body heat up. As I passed the aid station for mile 20 I found myself shouting, "salvation in Christ alone: and holding up a single finger to anyone who would look my way. Oh yeah. It was on.

I passed 2 more runners on the out part of the stick of the lolly pop - the final part of the marathon - Shelby Bottoms Park. I entered the park and was now starting to overheat - my legs were hot and my breath was no longer controlled. I kept digging and passed 2 more runners on the backside of the park.

Dan Sheehan- a man who shows up at the most opportune times, he had been at mile 19 or so. He jumped out shaking his fist and telling me to go. Dan is one invividual I can point to who helped me get into running in the first place.

Out of Shelby Bottoms I saw mile 23 and heading to 24 I recall a moment of intense clarity - and an inner voice - "OK now let it go... let it hurt." And hurt it did as I stopped holding any reserves pounding the pavement, raking my constitution for extra give. I could see a female runner a quarter mile ahead of me. She was rolling as was I. I recall thinking, I am gonna try to catch her, but then a quick thought of "what are you crazy this HURTS" I dug in as I saw her start to weeve back and forth across the heat waves on the pavement. We were less than 2 miles from the finish. I took the hard right back on to 5th Street which meant the last climb of the race and I began to notice the gap was closing. Near the crest Dan Sheehan emerged again. All I remember is he held up 9 fingers, look right into my eyes and said "Ninth". I was ninth? What, I shook it off and beared my teeth and began a gutteral all out attack on the finish- I passed her on the descent and hit the shoot at a full sprint and left nothing on the table... 2:56:14, 8th overall and first Tennessean.

Thanks to Fleet Feet Sports Nashville for sponsoring me and Swiftwick for making exceptional running socks.

B and I at the finish - he ate my pretzels
from the finish tents.

Chickasaw Trace 15k Report

Not unlike last year, the Chickasaw 15k came up as a perfect tuner for an early season race. This year large changes have taken place in the lives of Team Stevens - starting a new job at Swiftwick, new house and a new babe on the way - travel and lots of training.

I was glad to represent - Nashville Fleet Feet and Swiftwick, wearing Aspire 12s and my yellow FF singlet.

The race started and I went out hard and fast gapping the pack early and after a mile no one was in sight. I felt strong through 6 miles and towards the hilly section, but my heart rate jumped through my head as I made it up the later climbs. I heard a twig break behind me and a lone runner was making gains on me on the ascent. He got me and passed in the final miles. Finished second overall, not a bad day- my son and wife and father in law were at the finish with hot coffee and hugs. I am blessed beyond measure.

In Christ,

Jadyn

Mountain Mist 50k 2012

In an instant, I was sliding head first in the mud, I came to rest staring in the face of a large sharp rock jutting ceremoniously up in the center of the trail. Ironic thing was - it was a fairly tame section of the course, mile 20.

The day began with several gun shots, the national anthem and a gathering of local and regional studs and studdetts all set to blast out of the gate. David Riddle's appearance had a lot to do with that. His fast rise and astounding victory list has put him in conversations with some of the country's ultra- elite.

The early miles were fast as expected and I decided to, well go for it- I ran in the top five through the first aid station. I felt strong through 10 but started to hear foot steps and was caught by several runners. One remarked that he was "bringing the cavalry". So he was! One of the guys was the man who helped me navigate the unmarked section of the Chatt Fat A**, one stellar dude. But today he was out to beat me fair and square.

Through the second aid station the trail was fairly dry and had only one notable climb (nicked K2) to deal with. The footing began to worsen, loose rocks replaced well worn dirt trails and mud muck and water became a constant part of the run.

On a descent I had a momentary focus loss while moving fast and my right foot landed on my inner arch directly on a sharp crag of a rock. I immediately knew I had some damage. But continued, hoping it would subside.

The pain eased, but my descending slowed as I felt another direct hit would end my day. Others passed me and I fought the urge to despair. Frustration over my inability to move quickly throughout the super technical terrain would come on in waves. Finally, I shrugged it off by mile 20 and just ran- "keep moving forward".

I saw Julia at Aid 3 and 5, Bennett was with her, it was such a comfort to have them there for support. The final miles contained the infamous "waterfall climb" where use of hands is required at certain points in the climb. Followed by more muck and wet miles strewn with rocks and a final loooong climb called McKays something or other.

I did feel good on the final climbs so I felt like my fitness was there as I knew I put in the time in training. In the final miles I was able to stretch my legs on the ridge line and was able to catch 2 of the studs who had ripped past me earlier and a third was seconds before me. 4:41 13th overall.

All in all-- a celebration with like minded individuals of the wilderness- great day to be alive.

Thanks Fleet Feet Nashville and Swiftwick for all the support!

God speed,
Jadyn

new year new day

Today I ran hard and it felt good. I let myself go on the down hills and I climbed the hills like steps in a stadium.

I love my job at Swiftwick, this was a great way to blow off some steam from all that is involved in a big life change.

The pain felt good as i hit the final climbs of the red white and blue trail in 1:26. My new NB Minimus 110s are like parts of my body, they fit me. @Fleet Feet Nashville has a few more pairs of the pre-released minimal trail burners.

Mtn Mist here I come.

Racin the Chatt 50k Large Bum

Ok so that may not be the official name but - it's a funny bunch of nationwide ultra races celebrating our collective holiday weight gain. I was up and out the door by 4 am 2.5 hrs to drive, plenty of coffee and good tunes and what could be better. I was first to arrive as Randy Worton RD was sleepily stretching red tape along the side of his road.

The race was small maybe 20 folks toed the line as we mingled and stretch Kris Whorton said "Go" I looked up to see her waving us off like kids to a playground... and that is exactly how I felt. No tweaks, no nerves, no weirdness, everything felt right. In my heart I felt like this was a day where things felt in symmetry, in order in rhythm.

Kevin, a Rock/Creek man, took off straight away, running what I felt was low 7s. I have forsaken my Garmin for some time now, mainly because in the move, it's charger has been misplaced, but here I would have like to have had my smaller time watch at least. I forgot that too.

I followed his lead, knowing the prevailing strategy of R/C runners is to blast out of the gate. I was ready and held pace off his right shoulder.

His pace quickened down to what felt like 7's even and I made an effort to keep up. After a few miles he said, "I like to go out fast, but I don't plan to keep this up!" This was all I needed. We past a house with a giant decorative present in the front yard. I thought this was a gift, this is exactly what I need. I was now warm and ready to rock. As we transitioned from road to gravel path to single track, I felt myself leveling out and the pace became comfortable. I dashed down the trail, feeling light and quick.

Randy the RD had left out 10 min. before the race start to throw flower down as trail markings, on the way out of his home he leaned back in, smiled and said, "catch me if you can!" I really wanted to catch him, how much fun to have a "rabbit" tossing flower on the trail not 10 minutes out.

I caught him in a little over 5 miles and now Kevin was dropping back. I ran with Randy and his dogs, he asked "do you know where to go?" I had no idea where to go and I sure didn't want to have to figure it out. Out of no where a guy appeared next to Randy's red pickup where we had our self aid stashed, Randy and he exchanged a few words and then he took off with me. Turned out his name was Alan Outlaw, he was out for a training run and was now going to lead me through the first 10 mile loop.

Alan took on the job as a pacer- pointing out dangerous spots as we circumnavigated Lookout Mtn on some hazardous and narrow stretches of trail. The 10 mile loop flew by and I was back to the truck grabbing bottles and thanking Mr. Outlaw for his selfless act. I now knew the route as I was to run the loop in reverse and then follow the white flour markings left by Randy that were sure to be down by now.

After a 5 miles stretch on which I saw Rock Creeker Kevin at this point only a few minutes behind me as he headed to the truck. With this, I dropped the hammer all the way to the 1.5 or so mile climb up Lookout. Every time I thought of winning - I would turn it to God's glory with a loud Hallelujah. I must have said it 100 times by the time I was on the home stretch.

I crossed the line in first place in 4:07. What a great day. Hallelujah.

Thanks @Swiftwick for the Aspire 12s- I wore them during the race and kept them on after- they were money. Thanks @feetfeetnashville the Roctane and Honey Stingers were right!

Kris Whorton co-RD and me post race

Monte Sano trail run

The fog was extra thick near the river crossings. I made a quick trip before dawn Saturday to Monte Sano State Park in Alabama to preview the Mountain Mist 50k course.  I was excited to try out my new kicks- Fleet Feet Nashville now has the new Brooks Pure series in. The awesome FF team set me up in a pair of their trail version of the new minimalist line- the Pure Grit. Here they are, waiting to leave, at about 4:35 am...

vroom vroom

I arrived at the park just at sunrise and the fog succumbed to the warm light. I had no true route plan, just an idea to warm up for 30 minutes, hammer for 2 hours, and cool down for 30 minutes. I figured to get about 21 miles.

smiling on the inside

I ran trails as they came, figuring things would either make sense for a big loop or I would make it an out and back. I ended up doing some of both. The terrain was rocky, wet and covered in leaves. The Grits held form. They have a snug fit everywhere but the toe box, which opens up to allow for greater toe spread and push off. They felt light and kept rocks from entering. Although they are a minimal shoe, I did not feel compelled to watch for every sharp little rock. All in all the shoes performed in an exceptional fashion and after 10 miles I forgot they were new.

Swiftwick Aspire 12s 

A great run, got 21+ miles checked out the course and found out in a hurry I am gonna have to return to my TRT training routes, looking for hills and gnar whenever I can. This course is going to challenge me. I want to be ready.

Fall

300 calories and the night

Last Friday I finished a long week of work and headed to Percy Warner Park for some time on the trails. Some solitude in training- I planned 23 miles or so, the hilly red/white/blue circuit x2. I had a water bottle and a couple of small granola bars and 1 single serving packet of sunflower butter (about 300 calories total). I thought little about my nutrition and actually wanted to go thin, hoping to encounter and work through a bonk or 2. Deficit training can be useful, but there are obvious risks involved.

The first 14 or so miles went off well as the leaves fell in the breeze and the richness of Fall flooded my senses. After my second white loop, I grabbed my headlamp and ate what little food I had. It gets dark so fast in the forest, almost like God reaches out and flips a switch on some old oak.

At about mile 19 I started to get nauseated, and when I looked up at the stars through a clearing- they were spinning. I had a moment of wanting to stop, turn around and walk to my Jeep. I fought this urge. My head began to pound. Three hundred calories in and somewhere around 4000 calories used. I was there man. The "place" brought back visions of the night during the Tahoe 100, I tried to use my breath to get control, clapping my hands together and talking to myself to get through the last miles. I crested the final hill, zoomed to my Jeep, a quick stretch and I made a straight line to the nearest fast food joint.

Another note: I have taken to wearing the Swiftwick black Aspire 12's while running. A nice transition between shorts and compression tights when the temps are not too bad. I've long used the 12s as recovery socks but they are good during running as well.

In Christ,

JMS

Threshold

He stood poised beneath an oak in the late afternoon sun.

His body crouched and twisted, hands up and at the ready, eyes watching some point in the distance.

He burst forth, exploding from his stance with a grimace, bearing teeth.

He was sprinting. Running, pumping his arms in his faded gray shirt and red sweat pants.

His short cropped gray hair encircled his head. He was an older black man.

He was running repeats yesterday.

Fleet Feet Race Team Announcement!!!

Some very exciting news! The Adams and Fleet Feet have asked me to join the Fleet Feet Race Team. Endurance Sports has been a faithful sponsor and superb partner but is going through some transitions and the time seemed right and I have prayerfully and thankfully accepted.

My training partner, big dawg @Ashly Dewberry will be on FF Race Team along with a few other folks I have yet to meet but hear good things. I have known FF owner, Matt Adams since highschool. He was captain of the Brentwood Lax team when I was just a freshman middy, it was here that I got my first real taste of pain in athletics and liked it.  It is great to reconnect and run for a store that just does it right. The Team will be small with a focus on racing, fitness promotion and cultivating the FIRE in all who seek road, dirt, mud, rock and trail. It is ON.

God speed,
JMS

Friday Night Run

"I'll have 3 double expressos please." The barista opened her mouth, I jumped in and pointed to @Ashly Dewberry and Matt (the Dean) Vest and said, "In separate cups!" I mean what am I... crazy!?

We merry three headed out from the Franklin 5 Points Starbucks Friday at 430 pm. It was about 100 degrees. We planned to run the back roads to Grassland Middle which would be a 25m or so out and back. The coffee charged us up as we chattered at each other and ran fast dodging traffic. Labor day weekend brings 'em out of the woodwork. I had dropped water at the Old Natchez Trace/ Moran Rd turn. We guzzled water in the heat. I looked at Ashly- he looked good- fit- the fire seemed to be back and the injury now in the rearview mirror. Ash went back a different route for a solid 20m.

Matt and I ran out of sun shine on the way home. I had only a small blinking blue light on me to get us home. We ended the run at the Franklin Pub with a cold pint. 

The Time is Now

I am finally feeling whole more than a month after the Tahoe 100 (report still to come). This morning I flew over the hills of Percy Warner with ease and fire. I am back. I am ready to reload and I am super stoked to have @Ashly Dewberry back in action, albeit a step or two slower than he'd like to be but REGARDLESS.

It is TIME TO GET DOWN! Nashville's ultra scene is starting to bubble and grow- the FF Dirtbags, Highland  Rim Ultra Club, stud company @swiftwick blowing up on the race scene, a new store opening up soon (Nashville Running Club). Everything is falling in place for Greater Nashville to become a true ultra hive.

So- ultra or 5k... I urge you to throw off all your "cannots" and take on something that SCARES YOU a little this coming season. This is where life gets sweet and as Ashly would say "now you're living!"

God speed!!!

The Reset Button

The Tahoe Rim Trail 100 is now complete and behind me. I have just returned from a week of sun and fun with family in Gulf Shores where I melted into a buttery ball of relaxation. The dings are healed up now and I have regained feeling in most of my toes. Seven days with no schedule and time with my awesome family has left me well... happy, happy and rusty.

We've got some fun to have!

I ran most days but no more than 4 or 5 miles while I was there and really in an effort to feel ok about the amount of calories I planned to consume that day.  So Sunday I got my trail shoes and hit Bowie for an eight miler with some tempo miles. My mind started creeping forward to potential upcoming races.

I am ready to get back to the trails. This time I will change up my approach. This is still coming into focus.

Oh, and I am finalizing my TRT 100 "report"... soon come Mon!

Sterling Mountain

Thank you Endurance Sports-best store for endurance athletes and Swiftwick- best socks for runners.

Mt Sterling Firetower

Sterling Mountain was the last of the out of town trips that had been tossed out by friend and advisor, Jamie Dial, a TRT100 vet. Mash and I had considered Big South Fork for our final out of town sojourn but this idea was poked as a place for flat, fun running NOT Mtn training. Sterling on the other hand boasts 4k of climb in a little under 10k of terrain. Not to mention the tumbling river flowing beside the Big Creek Trail. A place of pristine beauty in a place that feels still wild and relatively untouched.

We started a three day trail fest with a Thursday night run and Percy Warner Park hitting the trails for 16m tired night running with full bellies. Friday am we headed east after placing our volunteer requirement forms in the mail (yes TRT requires 12 hours of service to run their race). Once at the Big Creek Camp Site we geared up and hit the trail for a twilight run just shy of 13m up Big Creek Trail.

camp and Big Creek

We tossed up camp. Mash fixed spaghetti that was so good, hung out a bit and hit the sack. Early Sat am we drank coffee and prepped for Sterling Mtn. The trail route would be Big Creek to then follow signs to the summit of Sterlin Mtn. The trail crossed multiple mountain streams- some knee deep and ice cold. The trail became more of a dry creek bed. Fist sized rocks made the upward traverse a technical one. At the summit- as advertised was a fire tower that was open. we climbed and took a few pictures a couple was at the top and offered us a pull off some dark hard liquor in a plastic canteen. I declined knowing that I had only traveled a little over 12 miles and had many more to hit 30 for the day. We finished and relaxed the rest of the afternoon and evening - cooking dogs and sausage over an open fire and enjoying being done.

Big Creek

We finished the run with an out and back where we passed a back country campsite closed due to "aggressive bear activity". Luckily, Yogie was nowhere to be seen.

  

Confessions of a Dirtbag Ultra

start of Sat 28m Mont Bell trail run

Wednesday I cleaned up and put on my work clothes after an 11 mile run before work. The day proceeded on with client meetings and usual business. Later my boss (aka Dad) handed me a stick of deoderant, raised an eyebrow, nodded and left the room. It is official- I have become a dirtbag ultra. The progression from minor OCD to dirtbag is a subtle one. Not long ago I would have thought nothing of pumping the handsanitizer on my desk after shaking the hand of a person still standing there. Signal: "I don't know if you have germs or not, but I think there's a good chance..."

self aid station at end of 10.5m repeats

A few hints I was heading to dirtbagville-
1. wearing same shorts in 2-a-day workouts.
2. always hungry
3. little sleep
4. wife says- "there is a piece of skin hanging off your foot." me-"oh yes, I've been meaning to get to that."
5. less sleep
6. counting hours between runs as off time
7. no longer meticulously prepping nutrition- now toss everything in a box and fill an old milk jug with Infinit
8. cheeseburgers are s.o.p.

100 miles in 6 days... now hungry for more.

Mont Bell: Biting flies were a big test- 2 rain storms helped though.
The high wind and thunder forced me to practice running relaxed
in uncomfortable conditions.

Training on the Appalachian Trail

from high on the AT

This past week was a hundred mile week. It was capped off by an out-of-towner with my boy Mash. We headed east Friday afternoon and stopped in Oak Ridge for a pre-dark run on our way to the Smokeys. Our Friday run plan was a 16 mile out and back on the North Ridge Trail. The start of the trail looked sketchy and the trail itself looked unused... still we headed out around 4:30 pm. Parking awkwardly by houses as the trail head started in a neighborhood. I took point and in a quarter mile was high-stepping through tall grass and thorn bushes... the trail was just not well traveled, we ended up taking several wrong turns and had to double back. It was hot- I neglected to bring my headlamp and the trail well... was not much fun. It wound behind houses and across roads. It dumped us out after about 3 miles in a large opening on a grassy ridge. Powerlines ran along but the trail just ended in a thicket. After much tramping and prodding for the trail to pick back up, we relented and headed back to the truck and did a 3 mile out and back in the mostly vertical roads of the neighborhood in which we had parked.

breaking down camp

We finished with 9 miles and headed to Elkmont Campground. We reached our campsite by 9:30 and made haste in the truck's headlights to set up camp, get a fire going and have a cold beverage before bed. We spent a few minutes puzzling over a number of maps and books planning our route for the morning- we wanted as much climbing as we could get and we wanted 30+ miles. The prevailing sentiment was- Clingman's Dome would be our start and from there, we would make our way to the AT and follow it for 15+ miles and back in. We slept on cheap inflatable pool rafts-  I in my 6 man, huge tent and Mash in his minimalist Northface. I did not know it at the time, but Mash used a towel as a blanket. It got cold by pre-dawn and our site sat beside a small river, the sound of running water filled the night air.

Infinit and nutrition check

Time to get down to business. We broke down camp, prepped our Infinit in our Nathan packs and counted out gels, cubes and waffle stingers. Hydration was a concern as I estimated we would be in the woods for 6 to 7 hours. I was able to carry 60oz in my Nathan plus I planned to carry 2- 20 oz hand-helds. So 100oz would be cutting it very close. (I would need 120-140oz)

Clingman's Dome start

We headed up the paved path up Clingman's Dome and dropped into the trail following signs to Mt. Mitchell and the AT. We were both surprised by how far we seemed to be descending and then climbing. The trail itself was relentless, jagged rocks, twisted roots, sharp descents, and mind numbing climb after climb. This quickly wore the newness and freshness off the day. By mile 6, we were hard at work, maintaining our footing watching for wildlife (snake, bear, pig), and trying to remain relaxed.

We came upon trail workers, fairly often- made sense- it was National Trail Day. We celebrated by running them. We made our way to New Found Gap- the terrain changed and although we were climbing and descending most of the time- a cool, sweet smelling breeze hit our sweat covered faces and we watched as the forest floor became a sea of small green ferns beneath the canopy. I was finding rhythm now, and by the time we made it to the New Found Gap Overlook, things were just fine.

tourists at New Found Gap Overlook

From here we ran on the AT. Ascending dusty terrain littered with rock and boulder. We came to a sign that said "Ice Water Springs 1.7m". Now this sounded promising! We continued on- I was keen on refilling a bottle if possible, but would take no chances unless we could get word that the spring was drinkable. We came upon a shelter where a couple was resting. They confirmed my hope, the spring was just ahead and clean, AND cold! And ohhh was it- Ice cold water in the middle of nowhere.

beauty in the wild

The remainder of the run consisted of making it to our turn-around point and heading back. It got hot and the terrain was vicious catching toe and ankle as I grew weary and less cautious. Ashly finished the final 2 miles with 2 oz of water, refusing to use my Infinit I had saved in my pack- it was warm and I had fought through some nausea in the mid 20 miles.

Smokeys mile 21 or so

We ascended the final climb, which was 2 miles up the back side of Clingman's Dome and emerged on the paved path laughing and shouting; just celebrating! Many tourists looked on with curiosity, we must have looked like shipwrecked sailors paddling on a homemade raft finding a beach resort. So 32 miles, 13,166 of elevation gain 13,141 of elevation loss. It was all I wanted and more in preparation for TRT100.

Thank you @swiftwick- Ran in Aspire 2s, both days in 2s. Recovered in 12's and legs feel good today- these socks make a difference, and my legs and feet are better for it!

Thank you Dan & @Endurance Sports for the Infinit. Putting this stuff through the paces. You know how to DIAL IN NUTRITION and I am stronger for it.

Transformation

Mon. early am on Bowie trail

Going from a fast road race averaging 7:11 pace for 41.2 miles, even if it was ultra distance, has required more than a new training regimen focusing now on the TRT100. It has required a deep abiding spiritual rekindling. One that smells of campfire and has the winds of night in it. One that tokes deeply at the hidden stream and learns to see clearly in the laced light of early morning shade.

The majesty of ultra running is revealed in some of its most painful moments. For me it is a connection with the Lord and His creation that is increasingly strengthened. Almost with each step- stronger, closer, more willful.

Bowie by the ponds

My pace has slowed, my heart rate seldom climbs. My concept of distance has changed and I enjoy and seek out hills.

I eat and crave fast food junk. I need fat, oil, fuel, regular double cheese and bacon burgers are a new part of my diet.

getting hot by now running
an electric co. rd.

This is where the rhythm drops in. On the far side of the ridge, past the point of self doubt.

One must abandon the known, on the way to the unknown. Onward.

Post 18m at Bowie in @Swiftwick Aspire 2s 

"Run It Silent, Run It Deep"

Thursday I decided to get tired and go long. A big part of training for 100 miles, from what I gather, is getting used to circumstances less than favorable (to put it lightly). I put together a run at Percy Warner that would include both trails and road. 

The words quoted in Karnazes new book Run have become important to me, "Run it silent, run it deep." It is the blackness in the eye of the owl. It is the wind rushing up the ridge. It is a warm humid night full of the fragrance of the forest.

I kicked off at 3pm and ran the yellow-white-red-blue-cross country x2- finish red plus some back and forth to the Jeep to refuel for 23m. I then changed shoes and socks- in a fresh pair of swiftwick Aspire 2s, I was glad to get out of the muck on the trails. 

changing for the road

I ate dinner on the run, peanut butter between 2 waffle Stingers and rolled on to the 11.2. The entire day except for the cross country trail was elevation laden. I am starting to enjoy climbing, this is a good sign.

Night fell and the noises of the forest changed, I clicked on my headlamp. Bats swooped by occasionally, night frogs hummed and chirped and I cut through the last of the light. I found that I was tensing up and speeding up as the light failed. I often run in the dark, but having dark come while running is unfamiliar. I had to settle in for I had a long way to go still.

I finished at 9:30 pm with 34 miles in 6.5 hrs. I felt a sense of oneness with God's creation. Once I got home I laid in bed till 1:30, wide-awake, I suppose I should lay off the caffeine gels during night runs in the future.