508 miles, 35,000 feet elevation gain. Entries are not accepted until May. My “I’m gonna die…” post not withstanding, if I get into this I plan to train well enough to enjoy most of the 508 miles. Furnace Creek is also a qualifier for RAAM.
I am going to friggin’ die.
“Well, of course!” you’re thinking. I mean sooner rather than later, Einstein.
While snow fell outside my window, I was convinced to try Furnace Creek this year. The arm-twisting went down something like this:
“Why don’t you ride the 508 this year?”
“Ok.”
Now that I have had more time to think about it, I know that I am going to friggin’ die. Not during the race, though it would be the hardest thing I have ever done. I am going to die just training for this. Sure I rode 200-300 miles a week for a few seasons and raced a little (20 years ago!!), but I never got around to doing a century and my longest single ride was only 90 miles! My longest ride last year?? 28 miles!!! Like I said, I am going to friggin’ die … of saddle sore induced infection if nothing else.
There is always the chance I won’t even get in. I’ll know in May or June, but I have to start training now. At least fear is a good motivator.
Why race?
I really like the February Tech Tip my friend Marlene Royle wrote for Craftsbury Sculling Center. It is written for a sculling audience, but with a little imagination you can apply it to any sport. Probably the most important point for me right now is, “Be flexible.”
Marlene offers online/e-mail coaching for sculling if that is your sport.
Grand Teton 100
The 2006 Grand Teton 50 was my first ultra. This is a beautiful course and we had perfect weather last year. It is also great to be able to walk from your hotel room to the start line. If you have family or friends who want to come support there are lots of opportunities for them to see you right at the base aid station. Honestly though, the volunteers at this race are so great you really don’t need crew. I can’t wait to try the 100.