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October 25, 2006
On A Southbound Bearing
Tomorrow I'll be on a southbound bearing for Utah and the Goblin Valley 50K.
It seems that my excitement to panic ratio is gradually increasing beyond its low point 3 days ago.
The weather forecast looks outstanding, about 30 at the start and a high in the 60s for the day. I've figured out my race hydration and fueling scheme, Gatorade, Gu, and chocolate-covered espresso beans exclusively (Do you think I might become diabetic with that type of diet?). The shoe thing is still an enigma as my feet have been generally unhappy with all my shoes in the last few weeks. I'm just going to wear the appropriate shoes for the course and they are going to make my feet hurt. I've got a race plan, and I hope it's a smart one (I'll save the deets on the race plan for the write-up afterwards.).
It appears that she is going to be at this race. She sounds like a fun person to meet, so I hope I have that opportunity.
Wish me luck, I might need just a little! And thanks to all for the well-wishes I've already received. I think I'll be alright, though, as they always say that a 50K doesn't even count as an ultra because it's too short. See you on the other side.
Posted by Meghan at October 25, 2006 8:49 PM
Comments
Good luck! Hopefully this will be easier than many of your training runs from a mental standpoint, because many of you will be out there suffering together.
It sounds like you've trained really well. Good luck, be as positive as you can, and I think you'll do great.
I can't wait to hear all about it!
Posted by: Alison at October 26, 2006 7:27 AM
Good Luck Meghan! I love hearing about all your adventures. It sounds like this will be a fun and challenging one!
Posted by: Caitlin at October 26, 2006 3:06 PM
Go Meghan Go!!! I am sure it will be great. And I am pretty sure you won't die at mile 27 ;)
Just don't try to go out with Tania!
Woo hoo for you!!!!
Posted by: barb at October 26, 2006 3:56 PM
Wow, just in time to wish you the most heartfelt ... Go, Meghan, GOOOOOO!!
I was moving all the week before last, and then on Wednesday I had a motorcycle accident (nothing serious but for big effing bruises and bumps all on my left side, they told me to stay home and rest for one week!)
Anyway: re the electrolyte issue, there was some interesting info on the previous post which I would say is definitely worth looking into and testing
As far as shoes are concerned: I have been doing (experimenting) a lot (a whole lot) of barefoot running for the last two years with some exciting results.
Still early to say any thing too defined in terms of recommending others do the same (the likes of Zola Budd or Abebe Bikila would be much more credible...) but if all your shoes hurt, irrespective of brand, the only thing that comes to mind is that you must be buying them the wrong size. Seems too idiotic to be possible but it would seem like the only logical explanation. You are not the first experienced runner that would be doing it that I come across. In fact, I have come across a lot of people in general who buy shoes the wrong size, meaning too small... Plus I have this memory of your big toe woes written in a not too distant post. And that seems to be a clue of sorts, no?
Since I have started running (training and racing) and walking (often but not always) barefoot, I have felt the need to wear shoes at least 1.5 to 2 sizes larger than I used to, in some cases taking out the insole... The experiment continues this winter, as low temperatures are a real problem... We will see how it goes. Last year I just had to stop. My feet would not warm up. For the time being we are enjoying great summer-like weather here in Rome...
Anyway, nothing really to worry about now. You'll do fine because you are used to defeating pain. Lots of pain. But after the Goblin 50, you may want to devote some real time to your feet... it's kindalike a great set of wheels with inadequate tires just won't guarentee good, "healthy" performance. On the other hand, good tires on a mediocre car will make a hell of "feel-good-do-good" difference... Go, Meghan, GO!
Posted by: corrado giambalvo at October 27, 2006 3:04 PM
Not to sure who you are speaking about when you write they always say that 50 km doesn't count as an Ultra, by definition an ultra marathon is anything over 26.2 miles. I think running 50 km is very much considered an ultra and quite a feet, especially when you factor in elevation and terrain of most 50 km course in the US. For many it is a stepping stone to longer distances but this sport is about having fun; please don't be so quick to judge others accomplishments! I know you’re probably thinking i should keep my comments to myself, but that just isn't me! Anyway that’s my little rant……
I did just peak at the GV results and wanted to say congratulations you kicked some butt! Way to go!! Keep on keeping on and look forward to reading you race report = ) What’s next on the horizon!
Happy Trails
Posted by: Ryan at November 1, 2006 11:50 AM
Hi Meghan,
On my blog, if someone comments, I get an email. Since we're not supposed to post our email on the Internet, I've refrained.
But there's ways. So if you ever want the skinny on anything, and either your blog or mine isn't adequate (plus there's things we don't say publicly), just email me.
yahoo email
jeffo93y
Figured if I went back a year, not many people would see it. We first met at Goblin Valley - we just didn't know it at the time.
JeffO
Posted by: JeffO at August 25, 2007 10:09 AM