Days before the 2011 Virgil Crest Ultras

[Megatomic]

In two days I’m running in Virgil Crest Ultras (link in signature) 50 mile event. This is a 50 mile trail race that involves significant elevation gain and loss with long stretches of technical terrain to contend with. I’ve prepared better for this race than any other before it. I’ve worked out what works for me and have come up with a game plan with tiered expectations.

1. Finish in under 12 hours.
2. Finish before DFL.
3. Finish with a smile (look good).

I’ve also created a list of stuff to pack and take. Can I get you all to critique it for me?

1. Canned food item for food panty
2. 2 extra race shirts
3. Extra thermal/compression shirt
4. Running tights
5. 2 extra race socks
6. Newer Mizuno Wave Ascends
7. Knee strap
8. Headlamp with FRESH batteries
9. Peppermint hard candies
10. Bodyglide
11. Baby powder
12. Duct tape
13. Motrin
14. Tylenol
15. Salt Sticks
16. GU and other electrolytes
17. Complete change of clothes
18. Slippers
19. Water to rinse off with after the race
20. Deodorant
21. Toothbrush and toothpaste
22. Camp chair

No matter how I do I am going to write a race report to chronicle my adventure, I’ll post it as soon as I can after the race. If I'm able to pull off my top tier expectation (finish under 12 hours) I have committed to competing in the 100 mile race in 2012. 😱

 

[marmasatt]

That's a pretty awesome list there Jeff. Do you where a backpack or fannypack while running? No Camelback or anything?

I think a few plates of pasta/pizza will be in order the night before...

Good luck and give us a report when you return.

 

[Megatomic]

I have an Ultimate Direction Stinger hydration pack/backpack that I'll wear without the bladder. I'll also be carrying my Nathan handheld. Most of that stuff will be in the car or in my drop bag at Lift House 5 waiting for me. I'll be though that station 4 times in the race making it the perfect place to stage my stuff.

My wife told me she'll make me some spaghetti and yeast rolls for dinner tomorrow night. I'll wash it down with a few tasty beverages for extra carb loading. 🙂

 

[Megatomic]

Race crew reported streams of water coming down hills whilst out marking the course yesterday. Lots of mud. And it's supposed to rain more today and tomorrow. This is going to be messy event.

 

[RagingBITCH]

Jeff - good luck man...I don't know how you guys do the ultras, but it's all state of mind. 🙂 Your list looks good but I'd throw it up on a FB group that does ultras and those guys will give you some good feedback. The only advice I see that's common place for 50M is make friends with other runners your pace - it's the only way to get through 12 hours of running in mud lol. It's been a real pleasure seeing your progress and posts on FB...a true inspiration sir.

-Mel

 

[Megatomic]

Thanks Mel, it's been a tough but enjoyable journey for me. I'm glad you were able to enjoy it also. haha But honestly your running (speed demon) has inspired me at times, you and Scorch both. Thanks for the kind words my friend.

 

[RagingBITCH]

Thanks Mel, it's been a tough but enjoyable journey for me. I'm glad you were able to enjoy it also. haha But honestly your running (speed demon) has inspired me at times, you and Scorch both. Thanks for the kind words my friend.

Your easy runs on a trail are at a faster pace than my quality runs on the road. I'm hardly a speed demon...Scorch is though. 🙂

 

[Megatomic]

I finished under the time limit, but it wasn't pretty. After I've collected my thoughts I'll write a report for your amusement. 🙂

 

[Koing]

Congrats!

Looking forward to your report. I get smashed running 1mile 😛 that running shizzle is not for me!

Koing

 

[marmasatt]

I finished under the time limit, but it wasn't pretty. After I've collected my thoughts I'll write a report for your amusement. 🙂

Okie doke!