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High Light Runner: Michael Ball
Interviewed By Claire Blanton
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Howdy! My name is Mike Ball and I have been a URC member for a few years now. I’m originally from Houston, Texas and transferred to the Greenville area in 2016 from Austin, TX. I didn’t grow up running track or cross country but got introduced to somewhat of a formal running/training program playing tennis in high school. We weren’t the best team out there, but we didn’t lose because we ran out of gas on the court. At least that was my coach’s mentality. I’d run a few miles at the end of practice and then sometimes run again at night in my neighborhood at night.
I didn’t start running regularly again until after college and before having kids. My wife and I both got back into running. We started running a few races here and there starting with a few 5K’s and working up to a 10K. But that seemed to stop once we had kids. Working and taking care of young ones didn’t leave much time for running, especially running together.
It wasn’t until a few years in, I realized I needed to get back to running for my own health, both physical and mental. My Dad’s side of the family doesn’t have a great heart health history and I wanted to make sure I was in good shape to take care of my family. My grandfather died when my dad was pretty young. I didn’t want the same to happen to my kids. It was also a great way to deal with the stress of having a young family. Running became my outlet. It also didn’t cost much or required too much gear, and I could go do it at any time. So, it just kind of worked. I was then able to talk one of my buddies to start running as well. He was in a similar family situation as I was, and we had a lot to talk about while running. We both trained for and ran our first half marathon 2006 (3M Half Marathon, Austin, TX). I continued to run that race for several years in a row. It was a good excuse to keep the training going.
A few years later I started trail running. We lived near a park that had some mountain bike paths and were excellent for trail running. It was a way to mix it up and really add nature into the mix. I’m really in my element when outside in the woods, hiking, or on the water. So naturally, I fell in love with trail running. We competed in a few local trail races and even had a team for a Ragnar Trail Race in central Texas. We won 3rd place in our division. Around this time, I also was introduced into van relay races, running in the Texas Independence Relay. As we moved our family from Austin to Greenville, I kind of had gotten out of running once again. I was dealing with a knee injury and was just plain out of shape.
Life of course doesn’t always go as planned and sometimes it throws you some curveballs. In 2018 I found myself starting over again in life. Once again running became my outlet. My friend Andy had invited me to go running with him after finding out I used to trail run. We ran Paris Mountain trails a few times. One January day he invited me to go run up a frozen Altamont Rd with a group of people. It turns out this was the first time I would meet the majority of what would become the “Banana Fam”. And it was this group that would eventually introduce me to SCUM/Upstate Running Series races, and then eventually what became Upstate Run Club.
Having the Banana Fam and the people I’ve met through URC has been really important to me. I was going through a pretty rough season, and it really gave me a sense of community that I needed. I’ve learned that one can only run alone for so long and you really need some help from friends and family along the way to keep you going. Running just becomes the excuse to get together and go do something fun/stupid/crazy or all 3 (like run a relay across the entire state of Iowa)
I’m really amazed with the running community here in the Upstate. I’m amazed at how many great runners we have in this area. I don’t consider myself a super long-distance or super-fast runner but seeing what many around here do on a week to week basis really encourages me to go for longer distances. Everyone is so supportive regardless of what level you are at. I particularly remember all the runners waiting at the finish line of Conquer the Rock cheering everyone in at the finish. Such a great feeling when you could hear them cheering up ahead on that last mile. I have enjoyed meeting new people and new runners at the weekly run clubs. I love seeing how quickly people can improve and meet new goals. I love seeing them look at you like you are crazy when you tell them about living in a van for 2.5 days with 6 other smelly runners. It’s also a great time to share a Pint with friends and hear their stories and things others are dealing with. I see that my problems are small compared to what a lot of others deal with. In a world with so much division from every outlet and aspect of life, it’s nice to have a community that brings people together for a change. We really need more of that.
It’s also good for our youth to get active in running/sports and to see us being supportive of each other and being social in person. Kids need community just as much as adults if not more. I’m glad that my daughters have been able to join occasionally at Run Club nights.
I have not done all the Upstate Run Series Races, but I’ve done several. Cottonmouth Beerlay of course is my favorite race. It’s such a fun race. I really enjoyed the Paris Mt. Half and Conquer the Rock 25K. Resolution Run was really good for me this year, finally getting me over the Marathon Distance hump. I also really enjoyed the Snowbird race the last few years. Other local relay races like Ville to Ville and Palmetto 200 are also so much fun (despite what Van 2 tells you). I also have a special place in my heart for the 3M Half Marathon in Austin, and the Texas Independence Relay. Great races if you get a chance.
If you know me, I’m usually super late to sign up for races. I have been traveling for work and sometimes it’s hard to know when I’m in town. So, I don’t have any big races on the horizon yet, but I’ll probably sign up for one or two the night before like I usually do. Maybe I’ll get around to doing an official marathon this year or next.
I really wanted to thank all those who work hard keeping URC growing and active. So great to have so many options and see so many new faces. I’m a regular at the Wed B85 Run Club and usually help with the cookouts afterwards. I also try to make it to the Tuesday Paris Mountain group and the Thursday Simpsonville Run In group. Keep running and keep being good to each other. Thanks again to those who make this running community so great!
I didn’t start running regularly again until after college and before having kids. My wife and I both got back into running. We started running a few races here and there starting with a few 5K’s and working up to a 10K. But that seemed to stop once we had kids. Working and taking care of young ones didn’t leave much time for running, especially running together.
It wasn’t until a few years in, I realized I needed to get back to running for my own health, both physical and mental. My Dad’s side of the family doesn’t have a great heart health history and I wanted to make sure I was in good shape to take care of my family. My grandfather died when my dad was pretty young. I didn’t want the same to happen to my kids. It was also a great way to deal with the stress of having a young family. Running became my outlet. It also didn’t cost much or required too much gear, and I could go do it at any time. So, it just kind of worked. I was then able to talk one of my buddies to start running as well. He was in a similar family situation as I was, and we had a lot to talk about while running. We both trained for and ran our first half marathon 2006 (3M Half Marathon, Austin, TX). I continued to run that race for several years in a row. It was a good excuse to keep the training going.
A few years later I started trail running. We lived near a park that had some mountain bike paths and were excellent for trail running. It was a way to mix it up and really add nature into the mix. I’m really in my element when outside in the woods, hiking, or on the water. So naturally, I fell in love with trail running. We competed in a few local trail races and even had a team for a Ragnar Trail Race in central Texas. We won 3rd place in our division. Around this time, I also was introduced into van relay races, running in the Texas Independence Relay. As we moved our family from Austin to Greenville, I kind of had gotten out of running once again. I was dealing with a knee injury and was just plain out of shape.
Life of course doesn’t always go as planned and sometimes it throws you some curveballs. In 2018 I found myself starting over again in life. Once again running became my outlet. My friend Andy had invited me to go running with him after finding out I used to trail run. We ran Paris Mountain trails a few times. One January day he invited me to go run up a frozen Altamont Rd with a group of people. It turns out this was the first time I would meet the majority of what would become the “Banana Fam”. And it was this group that would eventually introduce me to SCUM/Upstate Running Series races, and then eventually what became Upstate Run Club.
Having the Banana Fam and the people I’ve met through URC has been really important to me. I was going through a pretty rough season, and it really gave me a sense of community that I needed. I’ve learned that one can only run alone for so long and you really need some help from friends and family along the way to keep you going. Running just becomes the excuse to get together and go do something fun/stupid/crazy or all 3 (like run a relay across the entire state of Iowa)
I’m really amazed with the running community here in the Upstate. I’m amazed at how many great runners we have in this area. I don’t consider myself a super long-distance or super-fast runner but seeing what many around here do on a week to week basis really encourages me to go for longer distances. Everyone is so supportive regardless of what level you are at. I particularly remember all the runners waiting at the finish line of Conquer the Rock cheering everyone in at the finish. Such a great feeling when you could hear them cheering up ahead on that last mile. I have enjoyed meeting new people and new runners at the weekly run clubs. I love seeing how quickly people can improve and meet new goals. I love seeing them look at you like you are crazy when you tell them about living in a van for 2.5 days with 6 other smelly runners. It’s also a great time to share a Pint with friends and hear their stories and things others are dealing with. I see that my problems are small compared to what a lot of others deal with. In a world with so much division from every outlet and aspect of life, it’s nice to have a community that brings people together for a change. We really need more of that.
It’s also good for our youth to get active in running/sports and to see us being supportive of each other and being social in person. Kids need community just as much as adults if not more. I’m glad that my daughters have been able to join occasionally at Run Club nights.
I have not done all the Upstate Run Series Races, but I’ve done several. Cottonmouth Beerlay of course is my favorite race. It’s such a fun race. I really enjoyed the Paris Mt. Half and Conquer the Rock 25K. Resolution Run was really good for me this year, finally getting me over the Marathon Distance hump. I also really enjoyed the Snowbird race the last few years. Other local relay races like Ville to Ville and Palmetto 200 are also so much fun (despite what Van 2 tells you). I also have a special place in my heart for the 3M Half Marathon in Austin, and the Texas Independence Relay. Great races if you get a chance.
If you know me, I’m usually super late to sign up for races. I have been traveling for work and sometimes it’s hard to know when I’m in town. So, I don’t have any big races on the horizon yet, but I’ll probably sign up for one or two the night before like I usually do. Maybe I’ll get around to doing an official marathon this year or next.
I really wanted to thank all those who work hard keeping URC growing and active. So great to have so many options and see so many new faces. I’m a regular at the Wed B85 Run Club and usually help with the cookouts afterwards. I also try to make it to the Tuesday Paris Mountain group and the Thursday Simpsonville Run In group. Keep running and keep being good to each other. Thanks again to those who make this running community so great!
Good pain vs. bad pain:
How to know when to train-through or when to schedule an appointment
By: Dr. Tomilyn Thornberry Bloom Physical Medicine
We all know the drill: you start a run feeling a little stiff and maybe extra achy in a certain spot. We think “eh, it’ll loosen up throughout the run.” So off we go, hoping for the best. And then one of two things happens, it does indeed loosen up and feels fine afterwards; must have just been yesterday’s hard workout! Option B is that it lingers, maybe even becoming more uncomfortable, even painful throughout the run or after. And then we are left wondering, if this “niggle” is becoming a “thing”? Can I run through it? Do I need to take a day off? Should I make an appointment for some intervention? Allow me to help you make answering those questions a bit more streamlined.
Soreness and pain are both sensations that indicate discomfort in the body, but there are differences between them. Soreness typically refers to a feeling of discomfort or tenderness in the muscles, a result of exercise and its intended gains. We often call this DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness). This type of soreness is usually a normal response to the stress put on the muscles, and it typically resolves on its own within a few days.
Pain, on the other hand, is a more intense and often more unpleasant sensation that can have a variety of causes. Pain can be acute, such as a sudden injury or trauma, or it can be chronic, lasting for weeks, months, or even years. Unlike soreness, pain is not a normal response to physical activity and may indicate an underlying condition or injury that requires medical attention.
There are three main ways to objectively ask yourself if what you’re feeling is pain or soreness:
“Bad pain” lasts for several days or more and returns after your run, despite it maybe not being noticeable during the run itself.
Action steps: If you think you’ve got “good pain” but want to stay in that lane, there are things you can do to optimize that:
If you have determined that what you’re feeling is more likely “bad pain” then it’s always best to set up an appointment and get some feedback about what might be causing it. At Bloom we specialize in athletes and can help determine not only what injury you might have (or be about to have if you keep running on it at that rate!) but we can also guide you on strength and mobility interventions to treat and prevent reoccurrence.
We can help you restore full range of motion to joints and stabilize your key muscle groups to maintain that range as well help you target areas that have become asymmetrical in strength. Much like getting your tires rotated, maintaining as much symmetry in “wear and tear” as possible is crucial for distance runners.
In summary, soreness is a mild discomfort in the muscles that typically resolves on its own, while pain is a more intense and potentially serious sensation that requires attention and treatment. We all just want to run pain-free miles. Follow this thought process for differentiating pain and you’ll be that much closer to your next PR!
Soreness and pain are both sensations that indicate discomfort in the body, but there are differences between them. Soreness typically refers to a feeling of discomfort or tenderness in the muscles, a result of exercise and its intended gains. We often call this DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness). This type of soreness is usually a normal response to the stress put on the muscles, and it typically resolves on its own within a few days.
Pain, on the other hand, is a more intense and often more unpleasant sensation that can have a variety of causes. Pain can be acute, such as a sudden injury or trauma, or it can be chronic, lasting for weeks, months, or even years. Unlike soreness, pain is not a normal response to physical activity and may indicate an underlying condition or injury that requires medical attention.
There are three main ways to objectively ask yourself if what you’re feeling is pain or soreness:
- Duration
“Bad pain” lasts for several days or more and returns after your run, despite it maybe not being noticeable during the run itself.
- Symmetry
- “Before, During, OR After?”
Action steps: If you think you’ve got “good pain” but want to stay in that lane, there are things you can do to optimize that:
- Get that form right: If you have proper running form, your body is able to absorb the impact of each foot strike effectively, which can help reduce the risk of pain and injury. This of course also makes you more efficient and therefore faster.
- Adequate warm-up: I know, who’s got time for warmup? Let’s skip to the good part, right? Wrong. Properly warming up before running can help prevent pain and injury. Warming up increases blood flow and prepares your muscles for the physical demands of running. Whether that’s a lunge matrix or some dynamic stretches at the very least target your “problem areas.” This is especially important if you’re running first thing in the morning or after sitting for a long period of time. Blood flow and oxygenated muscles are happier!
- Fitness level It goes without saying but don’t overstep your current fitness. Train within your current level of conditioning. That is not just about your VO2 max, it’s about the strength of muscles and bones, elasticity of tendons, too, all of which requires a gradual prep for more training load which when not heeded leads to “bad pain.”
- The basics: Say it with me – sleep, hydration, nutrition, stress load! If you’re wondering why you’re always sore and achy, it’s likely you need to dial-in one or more of these four pillars. No amount of warmup or treatment can make up for training on five hours of sleep a night or living off of processed food.
If you have determined that what you’re feeling is more likely “bad pain” then it’s always best to set up an appointment and get some feedback about what might be causing it. At Bloom we specialize in athletes and can help determine not only what injury you might have (or be about to have if you keep running on it at that rate!) but we can also guide you on strength and mobility interventions to treat and prevent reoccurrence.
We can help you restore full range of motion to joints and stabilize your key muscle groups to maintain that range as well help you target areas that have become asymmetrical in strength. Much like getting your tires rotated, maintaining as much symmetry in “wear and tear” as possible is crucial for distance runners.
In summary, soreness is a mild discomfort in the muscles that typically resolves on its own, while pain is a more intense and potentially serious sensation that requires attention and treatment. We all just want to run pain-free miles. Follow this thought process for differentiating pain and you’ll be that much closer to your next PR!
Arrowhead 135
By Kim Russell
- “It ain’t no fun unless there’s a chance you could die”
- When it’s -30F, everything freezes
- Sleep deprivation is scary
- Sometimes you can just make things up as you go
- There are a lot of tough, crazy people in the world, and they make it amazing
- You are tougher than you think you are
- Just keep going. Sometimes you just get up and start moving and find there is more in you than you know.
Run Your Own Race
By Lindsay Walter
We all know and have heard the expression, “run your own race” and then proceeded to start off faster than out intended splits or get caught up in someone else’s race and pacing plan – myself included.
I have learned and experienced first hand that this truly is some of the greatest advice I have ever received. I always make it a main goal of mine during a race to stick to my racing plan and strategy. It is so easy to get caught up in what someone else is doing, especially early on when you are feeling fresh and relaxed. It takes a lot of self-discipline and letting go of your pride to start off a little slower knowing you can and will speed up. The race is never won (unless you are in a sprint) at the start of a race.
My college basketball coach would always tell us, “keep your eyes on your own bobber” and I remind myself of this often when it comes to my own running. I love the ultra running community and the endless support throughout all of the races from start to finish. It feels like a team and it does take a village. There have been so many moments where someone has given me that high-five, hug or cheer when I needed it most. But, I also love the individual aspects of running as well. I love the independence and self-determination it takes to keep going, to keep pushing through the pain cave and tough miles and stretches especially of a long event. I know that if I can just get through those times it can and does get easier.
A few tricks that work for me when it comes to staying focused on myself and having success are setting a goal for myself that is truly about me and isn’t influenced by anyone else. I never go into a race saying, “I want to beat X person” but rather, “I want to hit this time or this amount of miles”. I can’t control what someone else is doing so I shouldn’t be worried about it. Now this doesn’t mean I am not competitive or won’t try to win, but it is not the main goal for me. This allows me to stay positive and control what I can control – myself and what I am doing.
Another strategy I use is writing down and knowing exactly what my plan in. It helps me to go into a race and workout knowing precisely what the goal is. I think back to the Country Mile 48-hour race last April as I executed my race plan perfectly and even exceeded my target mileage goal. I knew exactly when the times were I was going to take my scheduled breaks and took full advantage of those. It made it easier to push through especially overnight when it was freezing knowing I just had to reach a certain mileage and then got to take a break. I also used a walk/run strategy as the race went on. I knew once I hit a certain landmark I got a walk break in turn making the running sections a lot easier to get through knowing a break was coming. The course felt so short when I broke it up this way making the miles really fly by.
It is important to go into running events with a specific goal in mind that makes you excited as well as a plan of attack for how you will achieve that goal. There are times when we don’t always hit our goal but running our own race and doing it for ourselves because we love it makes the finish line that much sweeter.
I have learned and experienced first hand that this truly is some of the greatest advice I have ever received. I always make it a main goal of mine during a race to stick to my racing plan and strategy. It is so easy to get caught up in what someone else is doing, especially early on when you are feeling fresh and relaxed. It takes a lot of self-discipline and letting go of your pride to start off a little slower knowing you can and will speed up. The race is never won (unless you are in a sprint) at the start of a race.
My college basketball coach would always tell us, “keep your eyes on your own bobber” and I remind myself of this often when it comes to my own running. I love the ultra running community and the endless support throughout all of the races from start to finish. It feels like a team and it does take a village. There have been so many moments where someone has given me that high-five, hug or cheer when I needed it most. But, I also love the individual aspects of running as well. I love the independence and self-determination it takes to keep going, to keep pushing through the pain cave and tough miles and stretches especially of a long event. I know that if I can just get through those times it can and does get easier.
A few tricks that work for me when it comes to staying focused on myself and having success are setting a goal for myself that is truly about me and isn’t influenced by anyone else. I never go into a race saying, “I want to beat X person” but rather, “I want to hit this time or this amount of miles”. I can’t control what someone else is doing so I shouldn’t be worried about it. Now this doesn’t mean I am not competitive or won’t try to win, but it is not the main goal for me. This allows me to stay positive and control what I can control – myself and what I am doing.
Another strategy I use is writing down and knowing exactly what my plan in. It helps me to go into a race and workout knowing precisely what the goal is. I think back to the Country Mile 48-hour race last April as I executed my race plan perfectly and even exceeded my target mileage goal. I knew exactly when the times were I was going to take my scheduled breaks and took full advantage of those. It made it easier to push through especially overnight when it was freezing knowing I just had to reach a certain mileage and then got to take a break. I also used a walk/run strategy as the race went on. I knew once I hit a certain landmark I got a walk break in turn making the running sections a lot easier to get through knowing a break was coming. The course felt so short when I broke it up this way making the miles really fly by.
It is important to go into running events with a specific goal in mind that makes you excited as well as a plan of attack for how you will achieve that goal. There are times when we don’t always hit our goal but running our own race and doing it for ourselves because we love it makes the finish line that much sweeter.
Highlight Runner - Shane Elrod
Interviewed by Claire Blanton
I entered ministry at the age of 23 after attending Bible College. Unfortunately, ministry only offered part-time pastoral opportunities, so I worked as an EMT for years. This led to eating on the road frequenting fast food restaurants and a sedentary lifestyle while working multiple jobs and long shifts.
At one point, I exceeded 350 pounds and could no longer sit on the floor to play with my children. When I got to the age of 40 and realized my father died at age 59, I knew something drastic had to be done. I heard that if you could do something for 21 straight days, it would develop a habit, so I began slowly walking and walked for 21 days in a row.
But I didn’t stop walking, I kept on going, cut back on my carbs, and eventually progressed to jogging and now running. Much of this I did alone but when I finally reached the 190lb mark in this journey, I realized that in order to maintain my weight goals and improve my running skills, I needed to find a community to support my dream.
That’s when I found URC Anderson. They have supported me through multiple small races, 4 half marathons, and I have recently run my first marathon after extensive training with them. This group has not only trained me to work harder and run faster, but they have befriended me as well. Future running goals include more marathons in shorter times with URC Anderson serving as my support and anchor.
Perhaps my greatest accomplishment is being able to chase my two year old daughter and seeing my wife and four kids at the end of every race finish line.
At one point, I exceeded 350 pounds and could no longer sit on the floor to play with my children. When I got to the age of 40 and realized my father died at age 59, I knew something drastic had to be done. I heard that if you could do something for 21 straight days, it would develop a habit, so I began slowly walking and walked for 21 days in a row.
But I didn’t stop walking, I kept on going, cut back on my carbs, and eventually progressed to jogging and now running. Much of this I did alone but when I finally reached the 190lb mark in this journey, I realized that in order to maintain my weight goals and improve my running skills, I needed to find a community to support my dream.
That’s when I found URC Anderson. They have supported me through multiple small races, 4 half marathons, and I have recently run my first marathon after extensive training with them. This group has not only trained me to work harder and run faster, but they have befriended me as well. Future running goals include more marathons in shorter times with URC Anderson serving as my support and anchor.
Perhaps my greatest accomplishment is being able to chase my two year old daughter and seeing my wife and four kids at the end of every race finish line.
Running With the Pack
By Bennie Waddell
Community. That’s probably not the first thing you think about when signing up for one of our events. Most likely you are more interested in personal goals and achievements or more commonly, being all about the bling handed out right after you cross the finish line. Those are definitely great reasons for participating in the Upstate Running Series. The reality however is that there are always several hundred other folks attending our races with similar aspirations and achievements in mind but with more experience and knowledge about our sport. At these events the opportunity to develop relationships and spend quality time with other runners may be inconvenient. This is one of the primary reasons it might be beneficial to attend a local group run.
Check local web bulletin boards or local running stores you’ll find plenty of meet-ups originating from local watering holes or the stores. Several in the Greenville area include sections of the Swamp Rabbit Trail making it convenient for walkers and runners. If you glance at the lists on our URC social media pages you can find a group of our runners gathering for a run most weekdays and almost every weekend.
There are plenty of reasons for attending these. Encouragement and accountability is a big one. Making a set plan for your train goals is much easier when you are around others who expect you to show up on a regular basis. Finding training or running partners is a huge benefit for female group attendees who have genuine safety concerns when running alone. Also the opportunities to learn and progress in your personal running journey are limitless when you are able to observe and interact with other runners in a casual fun atmosphere.
From the experience of many who participate by regular attendance at a group run, the greatest treasure gained is seeing the growth of our inclusive and diverse club! If it’s not been made clear yet then let me crystallize it for you: ALL ARE WELCOME! Slow, fast, walk, run, young, old, all shapes, all genders, all colors! This is real community. We look forward to seeing you at a group run very soon!
Check local web bulletin boards or local running stores you’ll find plenty of meet-ups originating from local watering holes or the stores. Several in the Greenville area include sections of the Swamp Rabbit Trail making it convenient for walkers and runners. If you glance at the lists on our URC social media pages you can find a group of our runners gathering for a run most weekdays and almost every weekend.
There are plenty of reasons for attending these. Encouragement and accountability is a big one. Making a set plan for your train goals is much easier when you are around others who expect you to show up on a regular basis. Finding training or running partners is a huge benefit for female group attendees who have genuine safety concerns when running alone. Also the opportunities to learn and progress in your personal running journey are limitless when you are able to observe and interact with other runners in a casual fun atmosphere.
From the experience of many who participate by regular attendance at a group run, the greatest treasure gained is seeing the growth of our inclusive and diverse club! If it’s not been made clear yet then let me crystallize it for you: ALL ARE WELCOME! Slow, fast, walk, run, young, old, all shapes, all genders, all colors! This is real community. We look forward to seeing you at a group run very soon!
3 Finishers - Barkley Marathon
by Zoe Sottile
The famed ultramarathon, the brainchild of runner Gary Cantrell (better known by his nickname Lazarus Lake or “Laz”), takes place in Tennessee’s Frozen Head State Park. The route was inspired by the 1977 prison escape of James Earl Ray, who assassinated the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.
The race consists of five loops of around 20 miles each, for a total of between 100 to 130 miles through brushy mountains with an elevation gain of around 63,000 feet. Athletes run the course over three sleepless days and nights – and there are no aid stations, phones or GPS to help with navigation. Getting lost – as well as falling and getting injured in the brush – is par for the course... Read More at CNN
The race consists of five loops of around 20 miles each, for a total of between 100 to 130 miles through brushy mountains with an elevation gain of around 63,000 feet. Athletes run the course over three sleepless days and nights – and there are no aid stations, phones or GPS to help with navigation. Getting lost – as well as falling and getting injured in the brush – is par for the course... Read More at CNN
Mid-Life Crisis? Or Challenging My Limits?
By Bethany Lannon
Trying something new can be scary. Trying something new that’s so far outside of your comfort zone that you can’t even see said comfort zone anymore – that’s scary as h-e-double hockey sticks. Yet that’s where I find myself. On April 4th, I will be turning 40. Perhaps you could say I’m entering a mid-life crisis. Or perhaps you could say that I’ve reached a stage in my life where growth has become inevitable. I’m ready for the next big challenge. At least I think I am.
Recently, I learned through the power of social media, about an ultra race that takes place out in Arizona every February. You may have heard of it; you may have even run it yourself. But for me, this is a brand new distance with a brand new challenge. It’s the Black Canyons Ultra. Every February they host a 100k and a 60k race. Registration opens April 1st and my birthday is April 4th. What better way is there to celebrate my 40th than with a trip out to Arizona? Now, you’d think that I - being a level-headed person, very conservative-minded when it comes to challenges, who never gets in over her head – you’d think that I would just play it safe and go for the 60k. (Side note: those of you who know me personally are probably laughing at that last sentence describing myself. If you don’t know me personally, just know that that last sentence was full of poo and getting in over my head is what I’m best at).
Anyway, I’m sure you’ve figured it out by now – I’m going for the 100k. Why waste a perfectly good trip out to Arizona? Keep in mind, I’ve only ever run a marathon as my longest distance. I’ll even go so far as to say that at this time last year, I was content with never running a marathon again. So much for that.
I have always been an advocate for stepping outside of your comfort zone. Anything that doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, right? I absolutely LOVE seeing friends & family reach for higher goals. It seriously fills my cup when I can encourage them in things they thought were unattainable. I haven’t even signed up for this race yet and I’ve already run through the gamut of emotions and thoughts. From the extremes of “Yes!! I know I can do this!! This is going to be AMAZING!!” to “What the heck am I thinking? That’s 62 miles. In the desert. With cacti. And probably rattlesnakes and scorpions too. I should probably back out now before I tell any more people” … and every thought in between. I’m sure that when I do actually sign up, it’ll get a thousand times worse (just a heads up for ya, Coach).
But here’s the thing – as scary as it is, stepping out of my comfort zone, even to something of this magnitude (for me), does bring a particular thrill. One of the biggest reasons that I’ve decided to go for this as opposed to just brushing it to the side and ignoring it is my support system. Between my husband, my friends & family, my circle of running friends, and my coach – I’ve got a support system that I know I can count on. Obviously I still have to put in the work; I’m not downplaying that by any means. But I’m so grateful to have a network of people whom I can trust with my biggest fears and insecurities. They’ll tell me like it is – and they won’t sugar coat it either. I have a great coach who I know won’t steer me wrong. I have an amazing husband and kids who will support me and will push me and challenge me.
It will be scary. It will be hard as hell. But it will be worth it. I know I’m capable. If you get nothing else from my words, let them at least encourage you to push for the next goal. Step outside your comfort zone. I’m willing to bet that you’ll probably surprise yourself when you learn what you’re truly capable of. And on Tuesday, April 4th, know this… I’ll be drinking a little bit too much wine and signing up for something I used to never see myself doing. And then, if I throw up afterward, I can blame it on the wine and not on the realization of the sheer magnitude of what I just got myself into. Don’t call it a mid-life crisis, call it challenging my limits.
Recently, I learned through the power of social media, about an ultra race that takes place out in Arizona every February. You may have heard of it; you may have even run it yourself. But for me, this is a brand new distance with a brand new challenge. It’s the Black Canyons Ultra. Every February they host a 100k and a 60k race. Registration opens April 1st and my birthday is April 4th. What better way is there to celebrate my 40th than with a trip out to Arizona? Now, you’d think that I - being a level-headed person, very conservative-minded when it comes to challenges, who never gets in over her head – you’d think that I would just play it safe and go for the 60k. (Side note: those of you who know me personally are probably laughing at that last sentence describing myself. If you don’t know me personally, just know that that last sentence was full of poo and getting in over my head is what I’m best at).
Anyway, I’m sure you’ve figured it out by now – I’m going for the 100k. Why waste a perfectly good trip out to Arizona? Keep in mind, I’ve only ever run a marathon as my longest distance. I’ll even go so far as to say that at this time last year, I was content with never running a marathon again. So much for that.
I have always been an advocate for stepping outside of your comfort zone. Anything that doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, right? I absolutely LOVE seeing friends & family reach for higher goals. It seriously fills my cup when I can encourage them in things they thought were unattainable. I haven’t even signed up for this race yet and I’ve already run through the gamut of emotions and thoughts. From the extremes of “Yes!! I know I can do this!! This is going to be AMAZING!!” to “What the heck am I thinking? That’s 62 miles. In the desert. With cacti. And probably rattlesnakes and scorpions too. I should probably back out now before I tell any more people” … and every thought in between. I’m sure that when I do actually sign up, it’ll get a thousand times worse (just a heads up for ya, Coach).
But here’s the thing – as scary as it is, stepping out of my comfort zone, even to something of this magnitude (for me), does bring a particular thrill. One of the biggest reasons that I’ve decided to go for this as opposed to just brushing it to the side and ignoring it is my support system. Between my husband, my friends & family, my circle of running friends, and my coach – I’ve got a support system that I know I can count on. Obviously I still have to put in the work; I’m not downplaying that by any means. But I’m so grateful to have a network of people whom I can trust with my biggest fears and insecurities. They’ll tell me like it is – and they won’t sugar coat it either. I have a great coach who I know won’t steer me wrong. I have an amazing husband and kids who will support me and will push me and challenge me.
It will be scary. It will be hard as hell. But it will be worth it. I know I’m capable. If you get nothing else from my words, let them at least encourage you to push for the next goal. Step outside your comfort zone. I’m willing to bet that you’ll probably surprise yourself when you learn what you’re truly capable of. And on Tuesday, April 4th, know this… I’ll be drinking a little bit too much wine and signing up for something I used to never see myself doing. And then, if I throw up afterward, I can blame it on the wine and not on the realization of the sheer magnitude of what I just got myself into. Don’t call it a mid-life crisis, call it challenging my limits.
What Makes SOmeone a Runner
By Emily Owens
Running, for me, came as part of a mini midlife crisis. I’ve never been very athletic, I was raised in a family that didn’t put much importance on sports. I dabbled in multiple sports in high school mostly due to the fact that it was a small school in a rural area and pretty much the only things to do were sports or drugs. I have terrible hand eye coordination but I found I could run a little. I joined our inaugural cross country team when it was created my sophomore year-I was basically drafted, since they needed runners and any student not already playing a fall sport was told to come run. I enjoyed it but never took it seriously and neither did the majority of the other dozen kids participating-we would smuggle Little Debbies and Slim Jims in our pockets until we ran out of sight of the coaches, eat, goof off, then run back to the school. I don’t think I finished a single race without walking, and was glad to get back to track in the spring, but that was mostly just to socialize, run a few mediocre sprints, then go back to hanging out. When high school was done, so was my athletic “career” and any involvement with people who cared about sports or participated in them.
Fast forward 20 years and I was by then a stay at home mom of 3 small kids, dealing with depression, isolation, and probably a drinking problem. I had no sense of self outside of being a mom and a feeling of “now what?” After joining the local Y mostly to get a few hours of free childcare, on a whim I decided to start running again. I couldn’t make it a quarter mile at first.
Now, 4 years later I’ve run races from 5k to 50k, road, track, trail, overnight, traditional, time based, and most recently joined some seriously good runners on an ultra team for the Palmetto Relay, a 210 mile relay race across SC from Lexington to Charleston. Getting ready to get into the van with these 5 people who legitimately race marathons, some competed in collegiate athletics, some run 7 minute miles like it’s nothing, had me thinking yet again “I don’t belong here, I’m not a real runner, everyone’s going to find out that I can’t do this kind of thing.” That all disappeared for me as soon as we got going, but it’s a thought process that returns almost every time I run with others or show up to a race. Some of that may just be my general worldview, but I feel like that self doubt is probably present more for someone who hasn’t experienced the confidence that comes with early or consistent success in the athletic arena.
There are plenty of inspirational quotes on social media that say things along the lines of “if you run, you’re a runner”, but I always find myself looking for reasons why it’s not true yet. First I thought, I’m not a runner until I run a race. Then, 10k isn’t enough, I have to do a half. I have to run 30 miles a week, I have to complete this specific challenge, I have to run X number of miles a month or none of it counts. As I started to get a little better and began to run longer distances, then my mindset changed again to “I have to run it faster” “I have to run it nonstop, real runners don’t take walk breaks” etc etc. The same pace or time that impresses me in someone else doesn’t feel good enough when I do it-I think I attribute it to hard work and talent in them, and just good luck for me. I would never judge another runner for the same things I judge myself for, and I don’t know whether that’s a personal problem or a rookie problem.
People come to running from all different backgrounds and I would guess well over half of the runners I’ve encountered through local run clubs and local races are nowhere near elite athletes or record holders. I know there are a lot of us that just began running one day well into adulthood, whether for weight loss, heart health, sanity sake, to keep up with kids and teens getting into the sport, or Forrest Gump type impulse. I find myself using the retired college athletes, the people with natural talent, the people who have been athletes their entire lives as my benchmark rather than looking at the running community as a whole-or better yet, just worrying about my damn self. I don’t have the same talent or the same experience but I’m still willing to get up at 4:30am on weekends to get my miles in before family commitments, and I voluntarily sacrifice sleep, comfort, and sometimes fun to meet my running goals. But I also have 4 kids and a life, and running cannot be something that always takes priority over everything. I’m not 22 years old and gunning for a cash prize anywhere, where do I draw the line at how much to invest? Many of us know how time consuming (and an energy drain) it is to train for longer races or big events. Is it selfish to focus on this? I’m pretty decent during times where I train particularly hard-could I actually be good if I invest a little more time and effort? The goal posts keep moving for me and I’m not sure when that stops. People who have been running all their life, or who played other sports competitively and came to running in adulthood, seem more likely to think of themselves as runners or athletes. Those of us who were clumsy, nerdy, whatever may identify more as “a clumsy nerd who runs” and struggle to see where “runner” fits into our identify…but it’s there, we just have to figure out how to get to it.
Running has taught me that I’m stronger than I knew and that I’m capable of so much more than I realized. Running has also provided me with a community of instant friends and so many great experiences through volunteering and connecting with others. This sport has made my life better and given me more confidence in all areas of my life, and I hope to pass those feelings on to my own children and to share that experience with anyone just starting out. It’s never too late and you just may surprise yourself with what you can do.
Fast forward 20 years and I was by then a stay at home mom of 3 small kids, dealing with depression, isolation, and probably a drinking problem. I had no sense of self outside of being a mom and a feeling of “now what?” After joining the local Y mostly to get a few hours of free childcare, on a whim I decided to start running again. I couldn’t make it a quarter mile at first.
Now, 4 years later I’ve run races from 5k to 50k, road, track, trail, overnight, traditional, time based, and most recently joined some seriously good runners on an ultra team for the Palmetto Relay, a 210 mile relay race across SC from Lexington to Charleston. Getting ready to get into the van with these 5 people who legitimately race marathons, some competed in collegiate athletics, some run 7 minute miles like it’s nothing, had me thinking yet again “I don’t belong here, I’m not a real runner, everyone’s going to find out that I can’t do this kind of thing.” That all disappeared for me as soon as we got going, but it’s a thought process that returns almost every time I run with others or show up to a race. Some of that may just be my general worldview, but I feel like that self doubt is probably present more for someone who hasn’t experienced the confidence that comes with early or consistent success in the athletic arena.
There are plenty of inspirational quotes on social media that say things along the lines of “if you run, you’re a runner”, but I always find myself looking for reasons why it’s not true yet. First I thought, I’m not a runner until I run a race. Then, 10k isn’t enough, I have to do a half. I have to run 30 miles a week, I have to complete this specific challenge, I have to run X number of miles a month or none of it counts. As I started to get a little better and began to run longer distances, then my mindset changed again to “I have to run it faster” “I have to run it nonstop, real runners don’t take walk breaks” etc etc. The same pace or time that impresses me in someone else doesn’t feel good enough when I do it-I think I attribute it to hard work and talent in them, and just good luck for me. I would never judge another runner for the same things I judge myself for, and I don’t know whether that’s a personal problem or a rookie problem.
People come to running from all different backgrounds and I would guess well over half of the runners I’ve encountered through local run clubs and local races are nowhere near elite athletes or record holders. I know there are a lot of us that just began running one day well into adulthood, whether for weight loss, heart health, sanity sake, to keep up with kids and teens getting into the sport, or Forrest Gump type impulse. I find myself using the retired college athletes, the people with natural talent, the people who have been athletes their entire lives as my benchmark rather than looking at the running community as a whole-or better yet, just worrying about my damn self. I don’t have the same talent or the same experience but I’m still willing to get up at 4:30am on weekends to get my miles in before family commitments, and I voluntarily sacrifice sleep, comfort, and sometimes fun to meet my running goals. But I also have 4 kids and a life, and running cannot be something that always takes priority over everything. I’m not 22 years old and gunning for a cash prize anywhere, where do I draw the line at how much to invest? Many of us know how time consuming (and an energy drain) it is to train for longer races or big events. Is it selfish to focus on this? I’m pretty decent during times where I train particularly hard-could I actually be good if I invest a little more time and effort? The goal posts keep moving for me and I’m not sure when that stops. People who have been running all their life, or who played other sports competitively and came to running in adulthood, seem more likely to think of themselves as runners or athletes. Those of us who were clumsy, nerdy, whatever may identify more as “a clumsy nerd who runs” and struggle to see where “runner” fits into our identify…but it’s there, we just have to figure out how to get to it.
Running has taught me that I’m stronger than I knew and that I’m capable of so much more than I realized. Running has also provided me with a community of instant friends and so many great experiences through volunteering and connecting with others. This sport has made my life better and given me more confidence in all areas of my life, and I hope to pass those feelings on to my own children and to share that experience with anyone just starting out. It’s never too late and you just may surprise yourself with what you can do.
Community
By Eric Brumbalow
It is something that someone new to the ultra world might not be familiar with. Unlike showing up for a 5k completing the distance and getting the shirt and going home; the ultra scene and community is soo much different!
The real food, the soda, the beer, the Fireball, and so many other things, but most importantly the community... It is a lot to take in all at once. The events most of the world sees through social media or the news about a runner helping another struggling to get to the finish occur during city marathons. However, that doesn't always happen at every race. That's what makes most newcomers so intrigued by ultras because that kind of assistance or care happens at each and every ultra. That kind of care mostly comes without asking, but if it is asked for then it is given without hesitation. People will go out of their way to pop blisters, treat chafing, cook the necessary food, or even change one another out of soaked clothes.
Another thing, if you come to an ultra, there is almost a guarantee that you'll walk away from that event with someone that you know more intimate things about than some of your closest non-running friends.
The bonds forged through countless shared miles and hours are some of the strongest and most honest ones you can find. You may not see those people for a few months or years, but you'll be able to pick up right where you left off as if a day had not passed.
Another thing, if you only had friends of a certain age or background prior to ultra, then be prepared for that to change. The ultra community has people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Ultra does not discourage walking, it encourages it. Ultra cheer for the first finisher on down to the last finisher. In many instances, the last finisher receives a bigger cheer than the first finisher. If you've seen some of those finishes, then you know and you've probably shed a tear or two as you cheer them on in hopes they make the cutoff... (definitely didn't tear up there while typing it out, nope).
Another thing, Ultra runners know how to party! There's something to be said about someone who can run for hours on end and use beer or something stronger as race fuel. Plus depending on the race you attend, there are random dance parties, singing heard throughout the trails, or a massive after party after everyone gets the trail funk washed off of them.
Ultimately, the Ultra community is unlike anything else and must be experienced at least once in everyone's lives. It will forever change you for it will show you that you are way more capable of doing things you never thought you were capable of.
The real food, the soda, the beer, the Fireball, and so many other things, but most importantly the community... It is a lot to take in all at once. The events most of the world sees through social media or the news about a runner helping another struggling to get to the finish occur during city marathons. However, that doesn't always happen at every race. That's what makes most newcomers so intrigued by ultras because that kind of assistance or care happens at each and every ultra. That kind of care mostly comes without asking, but if it is asked for then it is given without hesitation. People will go out of their way to pop blisters, treat chafing, cook the necessary food, or even change one another out of soaked clothes.
Another thing, if you come to an ultra, there is almost a guarantee that you'll walk away from that event with someone that you know more intimate things about than some of your closest non-running friends.
The bonds forged through countless shared miles and hours are some of the strongest and most honest ones you can find. You may not see those people for a few months or years, but you'll be able to pick up right where you left off as if a day had not passed.
Another thing, if you only had friends of a certain age or background prior to ultra, then be prepared for that to change. The ultra community has people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Ultra does not discourage walking, it encourages it. Ultra cheer for the first finisher on down to the last finisher. In many instances, the last finisher receives a bigger cheer than the first finisher. If you've seen some of those finishes, then you know and you've probably shed a tear or two as you cheer them on in hopes they make the cutoff... (definitely didn't tear up there while typing it out, nope).
Another thing, Ultra runners know how to party! There's something to be said about someone who can run for hours on end and use beer or something stronger as race fuel. Plus depending on the race you attend, there are random dance parties, singing heard throughout the trails, or a massive after party after everyone gets the trail funk washed off of them.
Ultimately, the Ultra community is unlike anything else and must be experienced at least once in everyone's lives. It will forever change you for it will show you that you are way more capable of doing things you never thought you were capable of.