4.04.2010

Sycamore Canyon 50k - race report

Recovery from the Old Goat race last weekend has gone really well. Long story short - last night I decided to run the Sycamore Canyon 50k.


Sycamore Canyon was my first ultramarathon one year ago and so holds fond memories. Before the race I ran into a few friends and met some new ones.

From left to right, Stuart, Andrea, me, Billy, Josh, Emil, Kristin, Colin, and Andee

I suppose the purpose of my running this race (besides great company and mountain/ocean views) was to test how well I really had recovered and to run a race with no pressure or expectations.

photo by Stuart

I started intentionally slow since this was the first run after OG and I needed to feel out my legs and see what they had to offer. Over the miles I gained confidence that they weren't going to fall apart on me and I was able to move at a relaxed but intentional pace. Nutrition and hydration stayed pretty solid until the approach of the last aid station. My stomach was a little upset at that point but nothing serious. Unfortunately it's a big climb out of the canyon after the aid station so that section was a bit difficult.

In the end I finished strong and felt good about my effort and the way my body held up. A pleasant bonus was that I PR'd by about 27 minutes. Also, I felt the freshest I ever have after a race. Here's to another speedy recovery!

Hi Stuart!

Interesting side note. I brought my iPod, but never turned it on. I have found a nice rhythm and connection with my breathing helps keep mental focus and a good gauge on effort/pace. I'll probably still use it on long training runs. It's nice to listen to audiobooks and podcasts to pass the time.

I'm building a collection of these coasters

I didn't take any pictures during the race, so enjoy this confusing bonus photo. It depicts a boxer focused off camera and me...battling a land shark.

maybe I can pick him up by his ears?




6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Wow...you amaze me. Keep up the good work. i hope one day I can run ultras too. This year will mark my very first 50M "leisure run". Time to test the waters.

Hone said...

Great job out there yesterday! Way to represent the Night Owls!

Stuart said...

Nice job, you were looking solid when you passed me and you obviously felt it too. Congrats!

I did get a good photo of you got to http://s232.photobucket.com/albums/ee207/chasingmytail/PCTR%20Sycamore%20Canyon%2030K%204%204%2010/ and help yourself

Billy said...

Nicely done Dave - and congrats on the PR! Pleasant surprise to see ya out there. Glad you decided to run it.

Josh said...

Congrats on back to back tough, long days! Good to see you out there!

Stuart said...

Nice job and way to PR! See you at the next one!

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