The Hay is in the Barn...

All of the training over the last 4 months has been in preparation for this race; my 1st "A" race of the year.

SweetH20 50K!

The time to beat is 8:12:25 - Last year's result.

In prep, I've run about 350 training miles, lost 20 pounds & spent a great deal more time on trail this year. I have great expectations!

While out running this weekend, my mind wandered over to the idea of my goals for this race. I established a time goal early on in the training process and looking over the numbers, I believe this goal is most certainly within reach. I've run with a lot of runners this year who have previously run Sweetwater and come in with times similar to my goals. My level of fitness is far greater now than a year ago. Last year, this was my first trail race & first 50k. I am certainly not saying I am no longer a trail/ultra noob - but I am very familiar with the course and have a better idea of the mentality required to tackle such a monster. With about 3000+ ft of gain (and loss)over the entire route, it is not "too much" but relentless none the less. The gas/powerline cuts are brutal and unyielding. It's the 2nd loop that really takes it's toll.

Knowing all of this - I have a few goals that are not time related.

*Stay in the moment - This course breaks up into several manageable sections. I am going to work each section with a strategy in mind.

* Enjoy the company - Music is typically reserved for long, solo runs. No need for music here, Top of the World will be singing to us. The race having sold out, there will be 250 registered runners stretched out over the 15 mile loop - Many whom I have had the pleasure of running with previously. this is going to be a giant party and I look forward to seeing old friends and making new ones!

* Keep the R.I.S.C. at bay.(Running is Stupid Committee)
There will be several low moments during this race, I intend to work through them and veto any legislation passed.

* Not get "Schicked"
Richard Schick, 61, is a local running stalwart and he "schick's" A LOT of people....he ran a 6:33 last year and finished 32 out of 155...chances are, I will get "Schicked".

In the interest of full disclosure - I do have a time goal in mind. I thought about setting an A, B, & C goal -sort of give myself an out. Nope. We are aiming for the stars!

6:45

Almost an hour and a half faster than last year. This will put me in the top 20-25% of finishers I think. This is an achievable goal and I look forward to seeing how it plays out. The weather forecast is decent, high of 63, with a 20% chance of showers. I can handle the rain & I love the temp range!

So - send some good running karma our way and I will let you know how it went!

I've come a long way in a few short years...