Riding for a cause

Aspen Colorado.
It was just the other day I wrote in my entry about where the summer had gone? and while the temperatures are still nice the trees in the high country realize it's fall.

It didn't take long as I headed up I-70 (and cooler temps) that indeed summer was behind me and fall was in full bloom. The purpose of this road trip was somewhat threefold. Picture taking, Running the Gold Leaf half marathon and finally the Wapiyapi fund raising ride with Lance.


And while I can post the pictures of the fall colors it's just not the same as seeing them in person. But, I'll add one none the less...

This was taken right out side Twin Lakes just S.W. of Leadville. One of my favorite spots to hike, climb and camp. And while we mostly have just "one" color to speak of in the fall compared to the other side of the country it's no less spectacular! this was actually my third time that I was venturing over the pass to Aspen to check out the colors. And with the lack of rain it made them that much colorful.

I arrived in Aspen and picked up my packet & number for Saturday's half marathon.

And while I read that it - the Golden Leaf half was one of the most scenic runs they didn't mention just how tough it was!!. I caught the shuttle from Aspen over to Snowmass and while standing in line I ran into Tish. Tish and I used to work out at the same gym. She may still as I no longer due as I'd rather run with Abbey instead. Tish I will say was they hardest working person, male or female there period! so it was good to have somebody to chat with.

Back to the run now...start was at around about 8000' and straight up for the first mile and a half and believe me the thought of walking surely came across more often than not. And while there were those that had already started to 'powerwalk' I kept it at my pace and prayed for level ground! and while I don't recall ever seeing any of that as the course was either up or down or off camber I manged to finish this beast in one piece, and good enough for 3rd in my age bracket. And as punishing as it was I will be back next year!

Sunday dawned a little cool and brisk as I got into Aspen seeking a place to park and a hot cup of coffee. Sad to say that parking was a lot easier than finding a place open! but, remembering where the Golden Arches was located from yesterday...when I had last checked Friday we had raised around about 65k total and I had been in 9th as far as fundraisers go. Come Sat at 5:00p.m. total amount raised was over 200k and I was the last (top 20 rode with Lance) to make it!! OMG! good stuff for the cause though. And while we all waited for "The Man" to arrive he made it with a few minutes to go. I was fortunate to get him to sign a book for me and pose for a few pic's as well. And with that, we were off!

The cool morning I mentioned earlier didn't last very long as we took the road up to Maroon Bells. And not that it's a grinder by any means it just goes up. And, like yesterday the scenery was just amazing!! wish somewhat I was there to photograph instead of keeping up with Lance (not) but, there is next year. And while I was still a little sore from yesterday and lacked the bike miles vs the running miles I hung in there with a group of 5~6 that made it to the aid station at the Maroon Bells parking lot. It was there that I knew going down there was no way I'd hang with him so...one more photo op' and it was see ya! all in all...one fun, calorie burning weekend! can't wait for next year.

Where has Summer gone Pt.II...

September 22, 2010...

Wow, it wasn't but a couple of weeks ago I asked the above question but here we today. Today being the fist day of Fall!!

And while Spring still remains my favorite season of the year, Summer is right behind. And while this past Summer was somewhat different than last year I had a good one none-the-less:

Europe: This included seeing some close friends that I regard as family. From there, it was on to the Tour de France and back to Chamonix France where I swore someday I'd be back there to hike. I was not disappointed.














Running: Nothing unusual as the year started in Arizona doing the R&R (ran faster than '08) and getting to meet Dean Karnanzes (Ultra Marathon Man himself). From there it was on to Moab for a half which I was able to crank under a 1:30:00 which was the goal going in. A few weeks later it was on to Boston. Knowing the course now I knew where I was with regards to where to push, where to back off. And this year as promised - to myself, I took the time to high-five every girl at the Wellesly College mile marker. By far, the funnest part. Boston like AZ this year was a faster time as well! Woohoo...

Probably the most fun was this years edition of the Wild West Relay. Unlike two years ago where I was part of a six person team I joined a twelve person relay. And while "winning" was never the objective (fun was) we certainly did! I would have to say the best part was Danny's Scones...damn they were good! I'm looking forward to next year. Though no idea if it'll be six or twelve person team?














Adventure Racing: Well, almost! cannot say the Muddy Buddy really qualifies as one but it was as close as I got this year. This years edition I did it with Carrie. And while it was a last minute decision to do it, was glad I, we did. Unlike the previous time where "placing" was somewhat of the goal, this time it was strictly for the fun of it. I know I did and I'm pretty sure Carrie did as well!
















Leadville 100 and all the rest: This year I had the opportunity to help crew and pace for the Leadville trail 100 for both Cat & Dan. It was an opportunity to see this event up close and somewhat personal. The commitment that goes into it is second to none. And while I knew that finishing was "not an option" there were a couple of times...however, I never questioned the determination of either one of them. Nor those that finished as well. Next year? naw, I think a 50 miler is on the agenda though.















Hikes with Abbey: Well, if it weren't for her it would truly have been a bummer of a summer (hmm, that sorta rymes). I'm glad I have her in my life as she truly is my best (four legged) friend and a constant companion in most of all I do these day's. We were able to knock off five 14ers as well as Mt.Sopris this summer as well. Now, I'm not sure if she could talk what she would tell you about those climbs but by judging on how fast she crashed after...we also had the chance to raft down the Colorado river outside of Glenwood Springs as well. This was a first for her as well as me as I've never been at the helm of a raft before! but, glad to report we didn't lose it!
















What next? No idea where Fall & Winter will take me, us. And while I'm already looking forward to Nepal in the Spring time I'm sure well make the best of it in between.

Nepal Everest Base Camp Trek.

Medicine Bow Wyoming.

This past Saturday I decided to head north instead
of west. I've always wanted to check this area - Medicine Bow/Snowy Range area out for sometime but just hadn't gotten around to it. That is till we took a drive up for the day to check it out.

Much to my surprise there is more to Wyoming than just the north west corner (Jackson, Teton) of this state and was pleasantly surprised as well. The Area consist of quite a few lakes with foot path's along most of them. One thing consistent about the state though is the WIND! Thank God I had brought three, yes three jackets as I needed them to buffer against the wind.

And while Abbey was digging it (and most likely the fact that she wasn't being dragged up a mountain!) it was cold! but, at least the sky was clear and the sun was out...









We ended up hiking around three of the many lakes up there. Marie, mirror and brookline lake. This is Mirror lake to the left. And while we pretty much had the area to ourselves there were a few folks out fishing and hiking as well. Would love to come back up to camp sometime next year. Though, with a lot less wind if that's possible!!

Rafting the Colorado and summiting Mt.Sopris

This past weekend I had the chance to Finally climb a mountain I'd had on my list for a very long time. Mt. Sopris (12,953') just outside of Carbondale CO.

However, much to my surprise when I got to my friends house in Glenwood Springs the day before they had had plans to go rafting! And while I've only been a "passenger" in a raft/trip this would be my first to actually "guide" my own raft along with Abbey down the Colorado river outside of Glenwood Springs.

Needless to say, the fiver or six mile stretch we did was a blast and am happy to say I didn't flip over - thank God as I had my pocket camera with me (though in plastic bags of course!). With about a mile to go we pulled off to enjoy some hot(pocket)springs right there on the river which felt pretty nice. This was indeed a super fun day, and a nice surprise as well. I think Abbey enjoyed it as well.

Sunday, September 5 2010.
The following day we were up and at the trail head at Mt. Sopris at 6:30a.m. and while not a long (12 miles r/t) hike it was the vertical from treeline to the top that was the real killer along with the disappearance of any resemblance of a trail as it was all talus and scree!

From here it was somewhat of a scramble to the top. Needless to say I've climbed 14ers that were way easier than this beauty of a beast! and while I waited for my friends to catch up before the true summit (only one other made it) it gave me time to soak in the views of Mt. Crested Butte and Capitol Peak, along with the surrounding area.
Once KC made it up to me we still had about a mile give or take to the true summit. We made that at just before noon, where we spent a few minutes taking the obligatory pictures before heading down where we hooked up with our third member that was having a hard day out there. But enjoying herself none-the-less.

From there it was back to the parking lot, then back to the house. Now every time I see that mountain I can smile knowing I've been to the top. Along with Abbey of course!!

Where has Summer Gone?

...I ask myself. Well, here it is September already! And with this month's weekends planned out it won't be long before...

Since my return from Europe my yards have suffered as I've been out and about with Abbey (seen here on 14'er #4 for her) most weekends camping and taking her up 14ers with me. To date she has done five this summer with hopefully a couple more before the snow and cold set in.

This coming weekend we are headed up to do Mt.Sopris outside of Carbondale/Aspen. And while it might not be a "14er" it's one of those peaks like Rainier that just stand out and beg to be hiked! so we are. As for the rest I had the honor of helping out, pacing a couple of friends at the Leadville Trail 100 where they, Cat and Dan both ran their butt's off and finished way beyond their expectations!


Congrats to the two of you!! still in Awe of what you've accomplished. Would I do a 100 miler? I think 50 would be fine for this kid. I'll stick to crewing and pacing. For now... ;)

Wild West Relay 2010

Wild West Relay 2010. Ft.Collins to Steamboat Springs Colorado.

Expectations are an interesting thing. A collaboration of past experiences and future hopes, expectations cast such a strong light on the present that no single experience can really stand on its own. But when experience surpasses expectations, those "ah-ha" moments of discovery stand as singular mileposts on life's winding roads. So when I was asked to join this particular team - all of which I know and have ran with many a times I told Bk "sure" why not?
However, she let it be known right of the bat that this was not going to be a "competitive" group as I know it so beware. And while that was a little hard to take at first, I'm glad I jumped on board.

I have to say that in all my years of running this by far had to rate as one of the funnest events I've done as a team. I mean, where else can one hang out mid-race and crack a beer or two? not many that I can think of! and with the exception of motel hell in Walden where the sheets have not been washed for years and the mattresses were the pits as well (I slept on the floor) I have to say that we all had a good time.

Summer report...

With Summer already in full swing sorry I've lacked on my blog here (no excuses really) as I can't say I've not had the time too.

Getting ready to leave in two day's for the Tour de France along with a couple of hikes in France as well. Can't believe the time is here! starting to sink in as I've been checking out all the action on t.v. and to think I could be on t.v. in a few day's! look for the Colorado Flag on the side of the road.

This past weekend I took Abbey down to hike in

Boulder at Mt.Sanitas. And while it's been a couple (a few actually) it was good to get back there. Boy, was it hot though as evident by Abbey's picture above!

Now, to try and catch up here...

This is me with Olympic medalist and Bolder Boulder founder Frank Shorter.

















Ahhh, Vail in the Spring time! one of my fav' places and home to the Teva Mountain Games. This year I concentrated on doing the 10k hill climb as I thought I stood a good chance of placing in my age group. And...while I hated to pass up on the mountain bike race the day before and an unusually "late" night out before hand it paid off with a 2nd to Mike Kloser (multiple world champion) so can't really complain there!!





Me with Beka and Brett...this was their first (and I hope not their last) Teva Games as they took on the mountain bike AND 10k run!! well done you two...










2010 Bolder Boulder...
This is a race you either like or hate. I love it. This is a picture of CU Stadium where we finish. This year we hung out to check out the the elite runners. And while I didn't crack the 40:00 minute time I'd (thought) I could do I still ran it faster than the last three years! maybe a little more track work for next year...







Summit County half marathon...

Ahh, it was good to return to this one as it's been some time, but this time of year there are half a dozen different events going on and it's been hard to get back up here. We were treated to a chilly morning with some wind to boot. And while the course profile does show it "losing" elevation, you are still at elevation and feeling it right from the get-go.

It took a couple of miles to finally get acclimated (If one really can) and I knew that there was at least, or so it appeared on other person in my age bracket but figured that the pace he was running he'd be turning off for the 10k finish. Damn, no such luck as when we rounded the bend where the 1/2 keeps going and the 10k finishes he was still up ahead and not seeming to slow down. And while I tried my best to catch him it was too late! oh well, 2nd place is ok as I've always said top 3 is ok!

"The Day..."

May 18. while this day has always been "my day" this one I was not looking forward to for some time as it was a "big one" so to speak. No need to know what the number in front of the one is either. But, doesn't take one to probably guess.

This was to be a day off of work, a day to do what I enjoy the most. And with that, I set of on my bike for a nice leisure ride till I felt my rear wheel go soft. Damn, Another flat! needless to say, that was number three in the last two days and not the way I wanted to start my day. So, with only one spare (usually have two) with me it was time to head home. After cleaning up a blood soaked hand from trying to change a flat (no questions please) it was of to Boulder (pic to the left) with Abbey to hike in and around the flatirons area. One of my fav's.

And while the day was a little overcast, the temperature was actually very nice! I over dressed with a long sleeve shirt that's for sure.

Aftewards, I headed over to the Boulder Running Co. (BRC) to pick up my bib and t-shirt for the Bolder Boulder and to purchase a pair of shoes that I desperately needed. Henry knowing it was A- my birthday (his is today) and being manager of the store comped me a pair! Woohoo, thanks bud. Once back home I tried to take a nap to no avail :( must have been that large coffee with the huge cookie and all the sugar with it as I was unable too.

From there, it was off to meet the running group then to Old C's for dinner. I arrived in a hailstorm to say the least as the sky's opened up big time! It was about 45 min's later that we got going as we waited for someone that was running late. The run was cut short as we had some people already over at Old C's waiting which was fine by me. Nice dinner followed by another pair of shoes AND a "voucher" for the cheese cake of my choice. All in all, a nice day made nicer by most of my friends. Thanks all!!

Ft.Collins Triathlon

May 16th 2010.
Fort Collins, CO.

What would have been my last race before the "big one" I decided I'd rather go cheer on and take a few shots of my friends racing instead.

So with that, I met both Troy and Beka over at the Epic center where the swim was to take place Sunday morning. And while I do love to compete more than just about anything, it really felt good to be there to lend them a hand and be a cheerleader AND run pacer for the day.

Troy had one of the first if not the first start times and was one of the first exiting to T1, swim to bike. After what seemed like an eternity, he was off for three laps.

Beka was to start about 25 min's later. So with that I made my

up to the main straight-a-way to cheer and shoot. Troy looked super fast on his "Red Baron" Specialized TT bike for sure on lap two as Beka came around the bend to start her first of three laps. From there, I'd told them both that I would do the best to pace them in on the run as I know how painful of an experience it can truly be!

I met Troy just in the nick of time, and off we went. I did my best to motivate him to keep chasing anyone that was in front of us. And while it may have cost me two beers, it was worth it.

By then, it was time to trot back and bring Beka in. I met her at about 3/4 of a mile into the run and from there we proceeded to go after some one that she'd mention was in her division/age bracket. It wasn't before long we went by her and proceeded to do better (at least in my opinion) with each mile. And while I've ran with Beka in the past this by far was the best I've seen her ever fly! and while we may have been past by only two others it didn't matter as they were not in her division. After they both finished we knew Troy had wrapped up 3rd but no idea on Beka as they were slow in getting her results. Long story sort, Beka like Troy ended up 3rd as well for the day! Woohoo! congrats to the two of you.

Now it was time for me to get a ride in on this magnificent day! Well done you two.

Evening with Frank Shorter

Boulder CO.

Last night I went to boulder with Felix and Raquel to listen to a presentation by multiple Olympic medalist Frank Shorter.

The venue was at Chautauqua park. And while I've ran the Mesa trail starting from there I had never known of all of the other neat and historical landmarks across the parking lot! A nice surprise to say the least.

And while most of us in the room knew about his running accomplishments what we didn't kow, well those of us that didn't know Frank personally is his reason for moving to Boulder 40 yrs ago (because they had an indoor track) how he started Bolder Boulder (originally a fun run to get kids into running) to creating passes for family and friends at the Olympics way back when, and how he has through the years brought runners, triathletes, cyclist to Boulder to train.
All in all, a great evening followed up by a nice dinner at the Cheesecake Factory!

Live Big 5k

Castle Rock, CO May 2, 2010.

Having been asked by Cat oh, about a month or so ago to do this I'd agreed as it was a fundraiser for her nephew that was killed in an accident at way to young of an age.

After getting somewhat "lost" once we got off the freeway and numerous "wrong turns" in the neighborhood, we finally found the start area. Along with Cat there was a couple of girls that work for her at the clinic as well as Dan Jones and Bob V. making the trip from Ft. Collins. Along with some friends of BV's.
And while I've not done any speed work as of late, any and all ideas of going sub 20:00 min's went out the door as in the process of getting lost we drove most of the course and found out this was a little to hilly for those thoughts!

The Start was sort of a cross country start as we started on a grass field heading to the first turn. I made it there in about 4th~5th place deliberately as I had no idea which way we went from there and certainly didn't want to go the wrong way. So with that, I let the other few lead till we got to familiar territory. Once there and for the first(?) time that I can recall I was leading a 5k! Woohoo. though I knew it would be short lived as I suspected the faster company was just warming up. And indeed just before mile 1, the eventual winner would come by and disappear. Drats. It also came as no surprise leading to mile 2 that Dan Jones would eventually come on by but to see Bob V...well, it didn't surprise me seeing him warm up even though he's only still recovering from knee surgery. Glad to see him back but not at my expense!! Ouch.

However, by then it was essentially the four of us running away from the rest of the field and try as I may to catch Dan or Bob, yesterdays long run and ride was creeping up on me and I had no sap what so ever. But, I also know and respect their speed so coming in behind them (for now) was ok. We ended up going 2,3 and 4 with Cat smoking all women in the process! all in all, not a bad day from the group.

Boulder Distance Carnival

Boulder Rez, Boulder CO.

Today was my day to give back something (help wise) to the running community and with that, it was off to "The Rez" to pitch in at the 9th annual Boulder Distance Carnival.

My "job" today was pretty simple as it was two years ago. Pace the lead runner(s) in the 15k. On my bike of course as there would be no way I'd even be remotely close on foot! you kidding me?


And with that, we were off! Earlier though as I was getting ready I saw 3x (and current) Iron(wo)man Chrissie Wellington run by me. Wow, Chrissie. And only in Boulder! where was my camera when I needed it. Oh well.

After some 52 min's or so I was back to the Rez with the lead runner and to say he was bookin' would be an understatement. The dude was flying! after everyone - friends included got back in it was time to help sweep the course and close the aid stations. It was then that I saw Chrissie running back into the Rez. This time I would not be denied as I grabbed my camera and as we were approaching the first aid station we passed her up as believe it or not, she was walking! nice, nice to see she's human as well. I asked her if she'd like some water and or gatorade which she took me up on. It was then when I wondered if she was cool with having a picture taken with me, and without a hesitation...my day was made!! woohoo. The girl by far has one of the best personalities around. Thanks Chrissie.

After clean up it was time to do a few loops around the rez on the MTB and with that, I was off.


My favorite site...

Boston 2010

Boston Marathon 2010.

The big day is over and what a day it was…

Competing in endurance sports brings with it a strange blend of feelings and emotions on race day, and if there was ever an event to stir this up, the Boston Marathon was it!

I have raced some memorable events in my sports career including triathlons, road and mountain bike races, adventure races…now, and again finally Boston - on the 2500th anniversary (so someone told me, can’t take credit for that trivia) of the original marathon in Greece. I can say nothing comes close, of all the aforementioned events, to the euphoria of running this race. This truly is “Big Time”.

I felt a little nervous at the start wondering if the preparation or lack thereof would be enough. And while the “quantity” was there the “quality” really in my opinion left a lot to be desired. However. To stand in the starting pen with arguably the world’s fastest field of marathon runners was pretty neat. Every person at the start (excepting the 2000 odd charity runners), has had to run a tough qualifying marathon in a fast time to earn a spot at the start. That’s what makes this so special, there are no slackers (well, maybe me!) in the field, and when you run low7’s for the first 6 miles or so and the crowd of runners doesn’t thin out, this point is really hammered home.

Now I understand why Boston is truly the holy grail of marathon majors! In most cities events happen and life continues unabated. In Boston, when the marathon happens, it feels like the entire city wraps its arms around the event - the marathon and the city become one crowded, cheering entity. Running past 500,000 cheering, fanatical spectators the entire 26.2 miles is a feeling that cannot be described. Like your first rollercoaster ride - it has to be experienced to be completely understood.

My first objective in Boston was to run, enjoy and complete the event as always. The second was to run it in the time I’d set based on my training, third, today was my mom’s birthday and hopefully looking down on me. This one’s for you mom, and last but no less important was to settle it once and for all with Danny & Henry of course! I am happy to report that I achieved all my goals, thanks to all the fantastic support and well wishes from my friends. Oh, and Wellesley College, wow, what can I say? Where else does a guy get so many offers for free kisses and marriage? And while I was content to high five them all there certainly was enough guy’s taking up the offer of free kisses!

And while Boston is a hard race to pace with a downhill start and finish, and I will admit the euphoria and adrenaline tends to lift one up and often results in too fast a pace for the first half of the race. I knew this, but stuck to the plan as best as I could and felt so damn good for 23 of the 26.2 miles of the race that I decided to go big and push anyway. I run on emotion more often than not and with the thought of my mom and someone else I’ve held special too me…I lit it up as best as I could.

End result was a faster time than in 2008 and of course with the other goals accomplished as well it certainly turned out better than I could have hoped for. Clear skies and tail wind to boot as well. and limp to the finish in 3h 18m. The incredible support of all my made this possible and a big “thank you” goes out to you as well.

Somewhat of a wake up call but cool song.

New Home...

Summer home.

With REI "free money" in hand and a hefty 20% off to boot, I went down and purchased a (semi) Summer home home for Abbey and I.

Voted Backpackers Editors GOLD choice for 2010 we are now proud owners of the Half Dome 2 tent!! Needless to say, with Abbey around I needed to upgrade to a larger tent as I know my one person one may have been a little to small considering her leg room and constant stretching!

Looking forward to putting it to a lot, good use in the months to come. Stay tuned.

Resurrection (Easter) Run

April 4, 2010;
Today I met with the usual "Easter Sunrise" folks to watch the sunrise atop Horsetooth rez. And while the temperatures were somewhat warmer than last year it was still a little chilly! though no snow. Yet.

This was also to be my last long run before heading off to Boston as well and I wanted it to be hilly, which of course I got my wish. Today, as well as yesterday when we ran around the rez as well.

Making it to the top of the road with about 10 minutes to spare it was a cloudy, overcast morning
which would put a hamper on an otherwise nice sunrise. Oh well, it's the fact we were out there that counts right? a couple peeled off from there as they had run long yesterday. From there, we proceeded North, down the dam hill up and over Bingham hill to Overland trail. On the way back we did encounter snow flurries of all things! No surprise...then it was back up the dam hill and the roller coaster that is the route. Once back at the car the one other person doing 20 and I dropped what we didn't need and finished off the last three miles. That was a tough hilly 20.

But as the temperatures got better and no sign of wind I jumped on the bike for a couple of hours and somehow ended up going back UP the dam hill!! Wow, once on foot, once on bike. Crazy, crazy...so, with that, I think I'm ready as far as Boston goes though not really an 'A' race, still would like to do my best.

sNOOOOOOO!

Wow, from Sunny Moab to Spring snow all within a couple of days! Needless to say it has been a wet and white couple of runs but none the less...

I think the general consensus of those who A- know us and B- saw the picture from last night thought we were crazy. That's all fine and dandy as it just made dinner all that much better!







This was taken this morning on my run. Best time of the day.













Abbey just LOVES this stuff!

Weekend in Moab...

Heading out (with Abbey) this weekend for the Canyon lands 1/2 marathon with some friends from here in Ft.Collins and a few from Boulder as well as two from Denver. Will take in Arches National Park on Friday morning as I've got a couch to crash on in Glenwood Springs Thursday.

A couple of us will be heading out to Slickrock trail once done with the half marathon as it's almost always the first question someone will always ask: "did you ride slickrock?"
Looking forward to that as it's been a long time since I have ridden it. Will post pic's from the weekend once back.

Getting Excited!

Well, with just four months to go I'm starting to get a little excited about this July. And while the "main" reason for the trip is of course the Tour de France I'm equally excited to get to Chamonix-France to do some hiking and site seeing.

Chamonix is located in a valley located below Mont Blanc which is the highest peak in Europe at 15, 782' (as well as one of the seven summits) Chamonix is also where the first winter Olympics were held.










Amazingly beautiful!!


















I may just stay!