Nashville Ultra

I am exhausted and in pain now. I know running Ultra is painful, but I just tend to forget how painful last Ultra was and still end up signing for a couple more. I can feel the twinge of soreness in my achilles tendon and I dare to break those nasty blisters. I'd decided that I would rather leave the room lights ON and go to sleep instead of making an attempt to get up and turn it off. 

3:18AM, Oct 16th, I forced myself out from the bed at this God forsaken hour to hit the shower. Race starts at 5:00AM. I decided to start along with my friend Diane, two hours prior to official start time. My ambitious goal was to get the 50 miler under 10 hours and run until 7:00PM to get a 100K. Little did I knew what was in store for me for the rest of the day.

It was very cold that morning that one could see their breath. I wasn't expecting it to get this cold. No long sleeved shirt and no gloves. About 20 runners took off, into the fog, into the darkness. Not knowing where you are running at times is a bliss. I could hardly see anything ahead of me and that included the elevation as well. The first few miles were quiet hilly until we reached Kohls from where we ran towards Percy priest dam and back to the start line. Running that long wooden bridge along Stones river has always been my favorite course. While running back towards the start I saw the runners who started at 7:00AM. There were many faces that I could recognize. Dallas Smith, Josh Hite, Mike Melton, Mike from Bartlett, John Titjen and more. By the time I got to the start line which was mile 16 now, my hands were completely frozen and I had to take Angela's help, another awesome runner and a good friend, to even open a can of coke and the cap of the water bottle.

The sun was up by now and I headed my way towards Shelby Bottoms. The course was great and the course directions were marked pretty clear. There was NU written all along the intersections. It was a pleasant surprise when the arrow turned right detouring from the pavement to a dirt/grass trail. The grass drenched in early morning dew, with trees covering both sides of the trail, it felt like running in the wild. That's when the unexpected happened. I landed myself in a small ditch which was camouflaged by the covering of grass and I really twisted my ankle and felt a sharp pain shoot out from my Achilles. I walked a bit and when I felt good I started running again. The grass trail was winding through all along the course until a few miles short to the Shelby Bottoms Aid station.

It wasn't until after crossing the Pedestrian Bridge, mile 26, that my feet started hurting from the earlier ankle twist. It was getting hotter but nothing unbearable. Running along the Cheatham lake reminded me that it's the Purity 10K course which I ran earlier this year and I ran the purity 10K just for the unlimited ice cream after you finish. I saw the turn around point for 60K and 70K and was eagerly waiting to approach the 50 Mile turn around point. Mile 31, finally I made it to the turn around. Now all the way back to the start in addition to a small loop to the finish line.  

Mile 33, piercing pain hit my achilles and even running a 13 min pace was becoming impossible. I was well in time until now for a sub 10:00 and decided to take it easy and walk till the pedestrian bridge but when I reached mile 37 I lost all hopes and the goal was just to finish. A doc at the aid station looked at my leg and after examining my feet he said that my feet is swollen and it's going to be difficult but when I insisted to continue, he decided to splint my achilles which offered very little support. It was still painful but at least helped me keep moving. Prolonged walks on the hot pavement, my Vibrams couldn't hold it, and ended up developing blisters. At mile 40, when I reached the aid station I had nothing in my mind but to quit. Should I drop down to 40 mile and finish the race, running another 10 miles in this situation was something too daunting. While my body was waging a battle against my mind, I decided to keep moving on the course so that I will not have a choice but to continue to the finish line.

Soon I hit the grass/dirt trail. The same course which I loved running earlier that morning was looking like a crazy demon waiting to devour my leg as soon as I set my feet on it. My feet and blisters didn't like the uneven surface and it started hurting like hell. What would have taken an hour on a good day took me about 2 hours to cross that section. When I found a shady spot, I just crashed and the crazy pain caused my eyes to tear up. I just wanted to lie down there all day. Somehow I gathered myself and decided never to stop until I hit the next aid station.

The aid station at mile 45 came to my view and it felt so good sitting on a chair for a while sipping chilled coke. Angela, my friend, decided to pace me for the next 5 miles. She was such a God-send help. I was glad that I had someone to talk to as I was getting bored talking to myself for the past 10 miles. The volunteers cheered me up even as I got up on my feet to run the last 5 miles. On the last section of the course, I met Julie, the Vol State Queen who won the race this year. Man, what a women. A great inspiration. While looking for the turn around point, to my horror there was another dirt/grass trail section that I had to cross. By now, it was excruciating pain and I so wanted to give up but I didn't come all the way to give up at the last moment. Not today. Reached mile 49 and was back to the same aid station and from there it was a hill, a bridge to cross, and another hill. That's right, a hill right before the finish line.

(Yards before the finish line. You can see my splinted right feet)

The sight of the finish line was gorgeous. At that point of time, to me, the finish line was the most expensive strip of land that I wanted to set my feet on, an object of great desire, a beautiful girl friend to embrace (I'm single though..haha). 

I guess I was in a state of hallucination by that time. The crowds cheering helped me to sprint to the finish line. I endured unbearable pain for the last 4 hours just for this moment. Now, I am not usually dramatic but not sure why I did this, but after reaching the Finish, I got down on my knees, fell to the ground and kissed the finish line. I finished. 12:08:55. 

 

I have no regrets for not finishing it under 10:00 hours as planned earlier. It just felt so awesome to finish this race. It was a nasty sight when I removed my Vibrams. Removed the splints and applied some blister band aids offered by a runner. I couldn't even move to collect my finisher mug. All I wanted was rest and sleep. I dozed off for a good 15 minutes until a volunteer woke me up to hand me my finisher mug. 

Peperoni pizza and chili felt heaven after that long grueling day. Had a little cultural exchange conversation with the race photographer Stacey Irvin, who I realized later, is an award winning photographer and her work was splendid. Diane had to drop down at Mile 40 after developing really bad blisters but she was there at the finish line with a wide smile and some cow bells cheering up every runner crossing the finish line.

Back in my room, I realized that I am not going to get any sleep tonight. I didn't dare to break those blisters. I drank some chocolate milk, took some Tylenol and didn't even had the strength to turn the room lights off. Though I had all the reasons to drop out of the race, all said and done, I was glad that I could finish this race, may be not strong, but I finished. This race definitely tops in my list as the most painful race that I have ever run. Reminded me of the Team 413 quote.

 

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Phil 4:13)

Winchester's Southern Tennessee Plunge Marathon

Oct 2, 2010. I was thinking about running the Stump jump 50K but decided to do the Plunge Marathon along with Diane and Kim. This was an inaugural marathon in a little town at Winchester, TN. It was a cold morning. Real cold. At least I felt it that way after enjoying a great summer for the past few months. The drive wasn't too far and we started at 5 in the morning and made it comfortably before the start. The registration was setup at the Old ham cinema. "Legend of the Guardian" is something that I wanted to catch up but not today.

The packet pick went smooth and the T Shirt was gorgeous. There was no orange tag or champion chip this time though. The sensor was embedded in the BIB itself. Race timings are getting very technical. Wonder how it will be down the lane. Caught up with Josh (The evil RD who put up the Blister in the Sun marathon), Chris Estes, Joshua Holmes and Kim. There were many half marathoners than marathoners. My goal was to do better than Tupelo though.

Race started on time. The beginning of the course was winding through city roads and traffic. First 5 miles smelt gas and smoke all the way but there were cops EVERYWHERE. They regulated the traffic so good especially at the intersections. I was sick in my stomach. I was running at a good pace though but was feeling soreness in my shoulder and as usual I forgot to tape my nipple and ended up chaffing. Yeah!! I never learn from my mistakes.

Though it was cold at the start of the race it was getting hotter by the day and humid. I reached the half marathon distance by 2:05. There were hardly any runners who took the deviation to the Marathon course. Kim who finished her half marathon in about 1:50 came down to the intersection with some ice cold water and banana. Thanks Kim, you are the best! She ran with me a while and I took off after devouring the banana.

A long stretch of road and I could see miles ahead of me but no runner. I was there all by myself. I was skeptical whether I am on the course and was so glad when I hit the aid station. I am indeed on the course. Wish the aid stations had some electrolytes. About 18 miles into the race, my running friend Phil Min caught me. That's the difference between experienced and amateur runners. He had an amazing pace and he passed me in no time. Slow and steady. The course ahead had some serious elevation. The elevation didn't seem to be very tough but it was. Steep and long. My goal to finish the race under 4:30 started to fade. New goal was to get it under 5:00.

 

It got really hot towards the end of the race. My vibrams couldn't keep up with the hot surface and when I inspected my feet at an aid station I noticed few blood blisters on my toes. Nice!! Soon, Phyllis caught me. Another experienced runner and this was her 185th Marathon. That's no typo, it was indeed her 185th marathon. The steep hills were killing me and I was craving for some food though I knew that I won't have anything solid for the next one hour at least.

The course during the last few miles was really rough. We were running on thin shoulder with the traffic just a feet away. It was a bit confusing too as the course went through some Junk yard and deserted streets but big thanks to all the volunteers for staying there out in the sun. The finish line came to sight and it was time to sprint. 4:59:16 was my finish time. Best surprise!! I placed second in my age group :). Sweet!!! While waiting for Diane, I met with Kim (Winchester is her hometown btw) and her Mom at the finish line. Soon, runners started showing up one after another.

Josh Hite won the marathon with a great time 3:00:00. Overall a great race for an inaugural marathon. Volunteers need a special mention here and they did a great job. I can't wait for my award which will arrive by mail soon. Above all I thank God for enabling me to finish my 8th marathon, Strong!!!

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me - Phil 4:13

My first Volunteering experience!

It was time to be on the other side of the shore. Volunteers can make or break any event and so it is in running. No runner can cross the finish line without the help of the volunteers. It was my time to return the favor even and I had the opportunity to volunteer at the Nashville Women's Half Marathon.

Saturday, Sep 25, I volunteered to be the Course Monitor for the Women's Half Marathon. It was my first volunteering experience and it really felt great to be out there supporting 6000 odd women runners, and some men, doing little something to help them achieve their goal. Women from all background and age group were out there trying to accomplish their goal and for some of them, their Dream. I was lucky that I got posted yards away from the finish line. It was amazing to see some of the runner push through their maximum limits with everything they got. Some sprinted through and some just one feet in front of another to the finish line. I was enjoying the scene and ringing the tiny little cow bell to motivate them to cross the finish line.

That's when a lady, Lynn Manzelmann, in her 50's collapsed right before me, just a few yards before the finish line. A knowledgeable person was doing CPR while a few other volunteers and I assisted the person. There was no sign of breathing. She just let out a little gasp occasionally which gave me the hope that she will be just fine. I was expecting to see her get on her feet, she never did but just let out a faint breath every now and then. The ambulance arrived in no time and they were doing something with the defibrillator. A runner who was related to the lady was weeping bitterly and we tried to console her. While the cops regulated the traffic and the runners safe to the finish line, the ambulance took off to the hospital. No one knew anything about the runner. I inquired about this to the race director and he mentioned that she has been admitted at the Vanderbilt.

Sunday morning I tried googling for some news about the incident but there was nothing. I tried on Monday morning and that's when I read on Tennessean.com that she passed way on Sun morning due to Cardiac arrest. It was shocking and saddening. My prayers and deepest condolence to her family and friends for their loss.

http://www.tennessean.com/article/20100928/SPORTS11/9280335/Half-marathon-runner-from-Brentwood-dies
 

Lynn has run several marathons, was in great condition and had no known health problems. Reminded me of several other incidents in the past where runners collapsed at the finish line and didn't make it back. I just wonder why. This cannot happen to runners. They are fit and in great shape. Runners shouldn't suffer heart attack or can they!! It certainly shows how frail a human life life is no matter hot fit and fine you are. This incident really moved me but would it stop me from running, NO! Would it stop other runners who witnessed this event from running, NO again. It's crucial though that one must listen to their body. Lesson learnt, there's a fine line between pushing your limits and knowing when to stop. This applies not only to running but every aspect of life. Be it stressful work situation, family problems and stuff. What matters is whether it's truly worth pushing your limits.

All said and done, doing what you love the most matters, no matter what.

Bartlett Park Ultras - 50 mile

I still remember the day when I signed up for my first 50 miler and finished it. Here I am, signed up and all set for my second 50 miler. Thanks to my friend Bruce for suggesting me this race while I was looking for an Ultra. Bartlett, a small town outside of Memphis where the race was to be conducted at Nesbit Park. Bruce, Diane and I started Friday evening and reached Bartlett. Also I got to try some Frog Legs for the first time and some coleslaw, hush puppies and beans. Juicy and Yummy!! :)

Morning was just perfect but I had race sickness I guess. I was hoping it's not the frog legs. I have been having sick in my stomach the whole week even before Tupelo and today morning it was bad. I just had some donuts and coffee. Aid stations in Ultra marathons will be loaded with all kinds of food anyways.

Met Joshua Holmes, Angela and couple of other friends after picking up my race packet. The T-shirt was really cool and the Polar water bottle was awesome. The race had an event where you can guess the time the 50 mile winner would make it and whoever makes the closest guess gets a free entry to the race next year. I don't even remember what was my guess timing though but I ain't good with luck I knew for sure.

The race contained several distances, 50K, 60K  and 50 mile. 50 mile course consisted of a short 1.8 mile loop to start with then a 4 x 7.4 miles loop and ten 4 x 4.3 miles loop and close with a 1.8 mile trail. Imagine running through the same course over and over again and the worst part, you go through the start line every time. It's too tempting to drop down to 50K and 60K during the race. Not today and I was very determined to finish my second 50 miler.

It drizzled during the beginning of the race and with that I started chaffing. Real bad. After finishing my first loop I removed my T-shirt right away and decided to go shirtless for the rest of the race. The course got a bit wet and slippery. Kissed the ground near the creek where it was really slippery and was covered with thick slushy mud. The course didn't look all that steep during the first two loop but the third and fourth loop was killing. There were only two aid stations in the whole course. While I was planning to eat something solid during the race, my stomach had some other plans. To push out anything that I put in. Chips, PBJ sandwich, etc. Finally, I made peace with it and it was taking in coke without any issues. Got to run the whole race with little bit of GU and coke. The course started diluting with runners showing up occasionally at the intersections.

I finished my 4th loop by post noon and with that my 50K. One of the volunteer hollered, "Yay! you are almost there, just 20 more miles to go, way to go". The 50 mile course was actually 51.2 miles. 20 more miles and that number sounded so big. Time to start the 4.3 mile loop. I was excited to see how the new loop is gonna be and was hoping it to be easy. It was worse especially with some crazy steep hills where you have to go on all fours. The course was a bit confusing and I missed the trail. Had to run an extra 2 miles to get back on track, as if I didn't have enough miles to cover. It was dawn and started getting dark by the time I finished my fourth loop. It was time to run that last 1.8 mile and call it a day.

1.8 mile seemed so long than it looked like. I was hungry and starving but then couldn't eat anything. Tried, beaten up and my feet was refusing to move. What have I got myself into. I would have loved running downhills towards the finish line any other day but not TODAY. Finally the parking lot came to sight and finished the race. While Diane and Bruce were cheering me, RD hollered my time, 12:05:53, gave my finisher medal. With that I finished my second 50 miler. My friend Angela Ivory guessed 13:20 and won the free entry to the 2011 race.

Surprisingly it wasn't all that bad compared to my first 50 miler. I could walk normal. I tried gulping some ginger ale but it just worsened. Coke and Ginger Ale waged a war in my stomach and it was hell suffering. After resting about an hour I decided to go easy for the night and limited myself with soup at a very nice Mexican restaurant and called it a day. Felt great the next day morning and had a ball at Kim's pool side party and it was great to catch up with John, Judy, Kim and couple of other friends. Couple of dives in the cold pool really helped my cramped up muscles. Had a great race and one helluva weekend.

While things could have wrong and there were possibilities that I could have DNF'd this race, it was purely by His grace that I was able to survive this race and could finish the 50 miler, strong :)

Chennai Runners ECR Half Marathon 2010

Blister in the Sun Marathon

Thanks to Josh for putting together this awkwardly painful yet fun race. Dallas Smith has said it all about this race here:

http://dallasfallsforward.blogspot.com/2010/08/blister-in-sun-cookevilles-first.html

 Thanks for the customized bib Martha

The clock showed 104 in the shade of course and I did end up with couple of blisters. We had a great time at Josh's house for post race lunch though. Had a quality time listening to THE Dallas Smith sipping Red Stripe, priceless. 

Picture Courtesy: Trent

Country Music Marathon – A race against the tornado and more!

It was race between several marathoners and the tornado that was to hit Nashville on the day of Country music marathon (24th Apr 2010). 

Weather prediction's wasn't looking any good on Friday evening. That's when the race officials decided to put in a clause stating only those runners who runs a pace of 10:20min/mile at mile 11.2 will be allowed to run the full marathon and anyone falling short of it would be diverted to complete the half marathon. This announcement came on Fri evening and 10:20 didn't sound too bad as I have run a 9:00min/mile marathon in the past. We were assuming that they would have some kind of a electronic mat to find out the runners pace and would allow them to continue running the full marathon based on their pace.

Having run the Andrew Jackson Marathon last week I was glad that my blisters healed completely (I got the blisters because of my own stupidity though) and thought I was ready for the race. 

Got up early in the morning and headed to downtown to find a parking spot closer to the start line. It was 5 in the morning but it looked as if it was 8 in the evening. The city was buzzing with runners at every corners and as far as you eyes could reach. 32,000 runners from across the US and from the world. The second largest event in the country. The biggest I have run. RD decided to advance the race start time to 6:45AM against the usual start time of 7:00AM. It was corral start. The race day morning buzz was crazy. I was at the corral 20 along with my friends. My goal for the day was to meet the cut off. As simple as that. Was enjoying the moment. Never ever I have such a huge gathering of runners. Old, young, people from several age groups all gathered for one purpose. To cross the finish line. While waiting, there were curious runners who had loads of questions about my Vibram Five Fingers and I was proud to answer all their questions. Some even took a picture of my feet, only my feet, I am glad though, at least my feet will be famous. :)

Finally crossed the start line at 7:30am. That's right, 45 minutes after the start of the race. Nashville being known for its country music, there were bands all over the course. The race was very unique. Very special one. There were people everywhere. You could hardly run at full pace in that huge crowd. Maintained a consistent pace of 10:00min/mile. Tornado was to hit at around 10:00am. It was already getting dark and cloudy. Still on pace. Was enjoying the moment and the crows was just amazing. Stopped at a water station and danced to a few beats of Alan Jackson songs and started running again :). I was so much fun. Remember the Rule 1, "Running should be fun". 

A girl ran towards me like a fresh breeze and asked me what time it is. I told her the time and I started running. After exchanging a few glances she asked whether she could run with me as she found my pace very comfortable. Only a fool would say No and I ain't a fool. Not this time. :). The next 4 miles went by like it was a 1K jog in the beach. Slight drizzle, cool breeze and a pretty gril running with me, what can I ask for. She was a doctor from middle east working in Philadelphia. Tall, slim and very pretty. It was her first marathon. When she asked my running experiences I listed out my races and instantly became her hero :) . It was so much fun but still I was constantly keeping a watch on my pace. I was still at a good 9:55 min/pace. I was so hoping to make the cut off so that I could run the next 15miles with her, rather she can run with me. Picked up the pace and reached the mile 11.2 where we had a surprise waiting. A volunteer said that we can continue with the full marathon. Booom. I was telling him that I am on pace but he said that pace doesn't matter but they decided to close the full marathon course at a certain time. So whoever started in the early corrals made it but not us and the rest of the poor runners behind us who started late. Tornado defeated us. The girl was shattered as it was her first marathon and she traveled all the way for this race. We couldn't nothing as safety was the issue. I consoled her to my best and we continued with our race. I was depressed that I couldn't run the full marathon but more sad that I have very little time, you know why :( !!

The next two miles was more fun. Anyway I couldn't run the full marathon, so let me take it easy and have fun running the half marathon, I decided. I slowed down a bit, she would run a bit fast and the moment she knows that I am not around, she would look around and would slow down a bit for me. I was looking at the heaven and thanking my dear God. It was one 'Alaipayuthey' moment. She was doctor, I am software engineer, awesome. My God didn't like me having fun for long. With just about a mile left to finish the race, she said that she injured her ankle a couple of months before while skiing at West Virginia with her husband. It felt like a thunder strike on me. Wait a second, did I hear it right, may be not, may be yes. 'Is your husband into running' I asked curiously keeping my fingers crossed, hoping she would say that she isn't married but I was wrong. She said that her husband doesn't run much, but likes biking and skiing. Nayagan background score was running in the back ground by now. 200 yards to the finish line. I was a gentlemen and let her cross the finish line seconds ahead of me. She was very excited about crossing the finish line and thanked me for making her run easy. "Likewise", I replied and exchanged warm hugs wishing good luck for the forth coming races. Didn't feel like hanging around after that and I told her that I need to go and wait for my friends at the finish line. She wasn't expecting that but she couldn't say much but to say "Bye". There ended my race. First not being able to run the full marathon and above that, another blow.

My friends soon crossed the finish line and the heaven gates opened at the very same time. They race officials appreciated our commitment to run the full marathon and awarded us the Full marathon finisher medal but we weren't satisfied. We decided to walk from the finish line to the start line in that pouring rain, about 3-4 miles towards our hotel. The storm was in full swing but we reached hotel by then. Hot shower, hot cappuccino and a great time laughing over my funny short lived love story. A guy liked a girl but girl was married and the guy lived happily every after :)!!

Now I am all set for my 'Strolling Jim - 40 mile' ultra next weekend. Wonder what I have in surprise over there!! Will keep ya all posted!!

Land between the lakes - 50 mile Ultra

This was the fourth race in the list of races that I signed up for, at one shot, couple of weeks back. After successfully completing the Frost bite half marathon, Mercedes Benz Marathon and Black Warrior 50K, it was time to conqueror the last one which was a mighty giant by itself and it appeared as if it’s just waiting to devour me. It's a good thing sometimes to commit yourself to something without much planning.

On our way to LBL:

Amanda, Taylor, Diane, Kim, Jeff, Harrah and I headed towards Kentucky after work on Friday evening. The drive was really pleasant with occasional showers. I was so tired that I slept through the whole drive. The cabin that Diane got for us was really gorgeous.

(View from our cabin)

We dropped our stuff and headed to collect our race packets and then to Pattis 1880s Settlement, a local restaurant. The food was really delicious but I really liked their “Flower Pot Bread”.

Diane and I had signed up for 50 miles while the rest decided to run 60k, Marathon and Half Marathon. I still wasn’t sure about the massive task that was waiting for me the next day. We headed to our cabin and called it a night.

Race day morning:

I hate race day mornings. That’s when you get, “what the hell am I doing here, wish I could just get more sleep”, such thoughts. Hastily I pulled myself from bed and grabbed a bagel and coffee. It was still cold outside but being just a few yards from the start line, we took our own to time to get there. Little did I knew about the the pain that I was about to go through and that I won’t be returning to the cabin until evening for sure.

Off we started:

Jeff’s advice was constantly ringing on my head, “Keep up the pace, have a constant steady pace”. 50 miles, 80.5 kms, a 4 loop course, elevation change of about 4000’ and the course filled with sections containing exposed roots and rocks. It was single track trail and the first loop was pretty much crowded with half marathon runners. The first loop of the race went great and also the density of runners started reducing. This particular race being a 4 loop course, the mile markers had three different distances, one for each loop. It’s bliss to not have the mile markers sometimes.

Cut-off:

This race also had a cut off where I had to start the fourth loop by 1:45PM. It was 1:15PM already and I still had about 4 miles to the start of the 4^th loop. I better meet the cut off else I am out of the race. Either I can push myself and make the cut off or choose to go home by running the 60K. I wasn’t ready to settle down for the 60K for sure. I ran an 8 min/mile pace. 60K runners on my were really co-operative and let way for me on the trail. Pushed myself really hard for the last few yards and made the cut-off with still about 3 mins left. By this time I was lying down flat on the paved road looking at the sky. The volunteers were really helpful and got me some supplies.

The last loop:

Now that I have met the cut-off the volunteers mentioned that I am good to start the final loop and finish the race. Pain unbearable and was so very sore. Lying down for long wasn’t a good option. After devouring two bananas, picked up a can of Coke and started the fourth loop. 7 hours into the race and still to go. The trail and mile markers started looking familiar, of course I ran though them three times by now. My Achilles and Ham strings were having some trouble. I could see an evident swelling near the arch of my left feet. A pain as if someone is piercing with a needle.

I haven't seen a single runner in a long time. It was just silence. It started getting cloudy and the wind was really chill. The worst I expected, rain! It poured out. I would have enjoyed running in the rain any other day but definitely not today. The trails started getting slippery and I fell probably a dozen times. Every step that I took either got me to slide or to fall down face off. I was completely covered in mud from head to toe. Every step felt like I was stepping on pieces of broken glass. I kept pushing myself until the road came to my view which means I am just 4-5 miles away from the finish line.

The final stretch:

The pain was uncontrollable and my body was screaming to stop but my mind was constantly pushing. I can’t give up now. The goal is within reach and in fact it’s almost there. The last few miles during a marathon or ultra definitely break any runner and it my case and it shattered me to million pieces. Almost 10 hours in to the race and still going. I could hardly feel my lower body. Couple of tears rolled down my cheeks when I hit the road but the heavy downpour didn’t make it evident for those who were supporting me. Kim, Amanda and Diane drove by to cheer me up.

A long stretch of road to run and 2 miles seemed like an eternity. I tried to forcing myself to think of the moment of crossing the finish line, for having a 50 mile ultra, buckle being handed over to me, bragging about my finish with my friends, etc. As much as I was trying to motivate myself, on the other side, my body was waging a war, to put me to a full stop. I was crawling by now but when I ran through the bridge, I knew that the finish line isn’t too far. Finally the intersection came in sight and I could vaguely see the finish time clock. Diane accompanied me the last few yards. My friends, runners and volunteers were cheering me up. Pain? what pain, I felt nothing, absolutely nothing. A few long leaps and I crossed the finish line. The RD awarded me the Belt Buckle. My first ultra buckle, my first 50 Mile run.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/27911712

I was totally out of control the new few minutes and I never thought this would happen to me. While Diane hugged me to wish for my success, tears started flooding my eyes to the point that I started crying almost like a baby. Why, I don’t know. Something that just happened involuntarily and I just couldn’t control it, not a bit. This has never happened before. I was really proud of my success. You’ll know whether you can accomplish a feat or not only if you attempt to try in the first place and I was glad to know that it was something I could do and something I did.

Time to recover:

Uncle Jeff congratulated me with his warm hugs as soon as I entered the cabin and handed me a glass Chardonnay to celebrate. Hot shower felt heaven. My wounds started surfacing which was hiding under the dirt all day. After shower it was more food, more wine and of course, more Tylenol. Next day, taking every step was pain unbearable but it comes with the territory and I have no eternity left to recover, why because I’ll have to get ready for my ‘Oak Mountain 50K’ Ultra marathon.

Black Warrior 50K

Recovery is all in the head at times. I have no choice. I need to recover because I have committed to run an Ultra the weekend after my Mercedes marathon. This one's very special as it's going to be my first Ultra, the "Black Warrior 50K". Name sounds too cool isn't it? Black Warrior, like a Ninja or Samurai or Gladiator. It sure is going to be a battle more on top rather than physical.

Monday morning, this is how I am at work now. Off my work shoes and an ice pack stuffed into my sock to ease of the soreness.

Funny as it may look, but like I said I have no choice but to recover as early as possible. Do anything to remove the lactic acid from my muscles. Felt much better by Tue though. Hit the gym and biked for a good one hour. Felt much better. I ran on the tread mill and biked 5 miles for the next couple of days until Friday.

TGIF, managed to get off from work a bit early. Diane, Kim and I rode together. Little did I know about a great runner whom I was about to meet that night. Ultra Jeff. We decided to crash at Decatur, AL. While we were on our way, Jeff and Amanda picked our race packets. After settling down in our rooms we decided to hit the Red Lobster for dinner. We exchanged our running resume while carbo loading. We all shared one thing in common, Passion for running. That's all. Jeff whose goal is to run 50 Ultras in all the 50 states and he has already completed 30 of them by now, if I am not wrong. It was exciting to be amidst my running friends who started running marathons even before I was born and still continuing their journey. I was getting my motivation from the enthusiasm they had for running. I am truly blessed. When Diane told Jeff about my blog, Jeff asked "Why do you blog" for which I had no answer. I'll address that in a separate post later but honestly I don't have an answer and that left me pondering!! We called it a night and decided to meet at 6:30 the next day for breakfast.

6:00 am...it was cold. Pinned up my BIB and got ready for my first ultra. While everyone was eating bagels and stuff I deiced to just have coffee. Kim and Diane insisted that I better eat something for the long race, but I didn't listen to them. A costly mistake. :)

We reached the race spot on time. The weather was still freaking cold. 50K on muddy horse trails. Sweet. Met Phil at the start line. Only a handful of runners unlike Mercedes Marathon. Everyone knows everyone like its one big family event. That's the best part about running Ultras.

The race started on time and we ran on dirt road for about 3 miles until we took a turn to hit the trails. 

(Right in the middle. Bib 53)

Slushy mud as soon as we hit the trails. While some runners were trying to avoid getting their shoes wet by going around the trail, I had no problems running through them in my Five Fingers. It looked medieval. A primal feel. I loved it. Reached a small waterfall and I could see icicles. 

Came to the point where 23K runners take the diversion. No turning back after this point. My "This is the moment". Took a right turn and headed into the trail. Steep, muddy, roots, slippery trails. Found a runner whose pace was just perfect for me. Ran along with the pack until I hit an aid station. Guess what, I was hungry and starving. Met Kim and Jeff. Took their advice and had PBJ sandwich. Felt good. From here on I ran pretty much alone.

Horse trails are very difficult to run. At times you have to share the trail with the horses; after all it’s their trail. Some of the horses were so majestic. The trails are not so wide but filled with slushy mud. On my way I met a runner trying to pull something out of the mud. Guess what, it was his shoe. The mud just sucks your shoes when you run through them, so you can imagine. I had no such problems though when you run through them, your shoes lose the traction and you will end up kissing the ground like it's your beloved.

I kissed the ground to glory for may be a half a dozen times. If you resist then the roots will ensure that you do. Escaped narrowly from bruising my face though my knees and arms graciously took some. After all what's there to trail running if there are no bruises and dirt on your face. Exhaustion was creeping in. Steep hills were punishing. Legs were sore. Stood in the ice cold creek on the way for a couple of minutes and it felt good, more like a natural ice pack. Pace was falling down. Reached the 21 mile mark and 10 more miles to go but the next few miles were all uphill. Sweet! Walked the hills and ran the downhill at a good pace. Guess what my next big problem was, tadaa, I couldn't pee. Drinking Gatorade and electrolytes all the way was a big mistake. At one aid station thought I asked the volunteer to fill my bottle with water he refilled it with Gatorade and I didn't realize until I got a mile away from the aid station. My kidneys were struggling and I was getting cramped up near my waist. Found a stream and drank out of it. That felt better but still couldn't pee. I was praying hard, He didn't help either. It was getting warm. I was hungry again. The last aid station, supposedly 4 miles before the finish line, was nowhere to be seen. When I found it, it was like finding an oasis in the desert. Did no mistake this time. Drank water and ate PBJ sandwich and some oranges. 

No more trails, 4 miles on the road to the finish line. Wanted to get it under 7:00 but crossed the finish line at 7:10. w00t. My first Ultra marathon accomplished. It felt great. All that pain and soreness vanishes the moment you cross that finish line. Just the sense of accomplishment. My first ever Ultra and I wanted to finish it at any cost and I did it. Finish time: 7:10:05

Garmin Data : http://connect.garmin.com/activity/25398545

Rice, beans, hot burgers and mountain dew was waiting for me but above all my happiness knew no bounds when I got the urge to pee. Huh, what a relief after 7 hours of struggle. It was starting to get cold again and hot rice and beans and burgers tasted heaven. We picked our bags and headed to the hotel. What a wonderful day and what a great race!! Had dinner at Logans. Jeff would be leaving early in the morning. We called it a night and would soon be meeting in our next big race. "Land Between the Lakes 50 Miles". Huh, call me nuts!

Mercedes Marathon

It was a long drive but Diane's Lexus made our travel really comfortable. Took turns driving and made a couple of stops on our way yet we made it on time to catch up with Phil, Hara and her family. Met at Rocky Pizza as planned for some carbo loading. The Power punch pizza looked very tempting and ended up getting a big one.

Hara was running this for her BQ (Boston Qualifier). We were discussing about all the races that we have run so far and our forthcoming schedule while Sophie, Hara's daughter, was enjoying her pasta and buffalo chicken wings. Very nice of Phil for collecting our race packet. After dinner we headed to our hotel room to catch some sleep. Diane and I headed to the gym and did a mile walk on the tread mill.

Placed some ice packs near the ankle joints and was lying on my bed pondering that the Valentine’s Day weekend is going to be something very interesting and exciting. Mixed feelings, did I commit myself too much, maybe I should’ve listened to my friends, would it hurt, what it would be like were the questions popping on top of my head. I still remember the day when I signed up for four races and this one was unique as it would be back to back. One down and three more to go. My third Full Marathon if I get to finish it and my first one in my Vibram Five fingers. They held up pretty good for my half marathon.

Didn't know when I dozed off. Alarm went on at 5:00AM. Ankle pain was much better but still was a bit sore. That morning was very different. You will never do it; it’s going to be hell, Forget the finish line and thoughts as such. I have never had this feeling before. Tried hard to avoid the voices (sorry if it sounds dramatic) and resisted it harder. Pinned up my BIB and timing chip on my VFF. Found a spot close to the start line and parked the car. The ‘This is it’ moment. No turning back now.

My first ever marathon where there were about 2000 runners, could be more. The moment the race started, it took 7 minutes to reach the start line. It was mix of both marathoners and half marathoners. A two loop course through downtown Birmingham. The weather was freezing cold, 28 def F (Yes that’s -2deg Celsius). 

My training runs on the snow helped. Breathing was so hard and lungs were choking. It took almost 3 miles to gain the pace by squeezing through the crowd. A long way to go, with just me and the road ahead and nothing in between. Mile 8, pain started creeping in near the ankle. Oh oh, not again. Can’t afford for an ice pack on the run. Poured some ice cold water over it, gulped a glass of Gatorade and headed towards mile 9. Reached mile 13 at about 2:10 minutes. There were hundreds of half-marathoners pushing themselves to the finish line. Man, their race is over yet I have to do the whole loop once again. It’s very tempting. Shall I just cancel my entry to Full Marathon and do the Half marathon instead, just a voice inside my head, “Be a man”, that’s the voice from my heart. The heart won! It’s Valentine’s Day people! :)

Hastily, I took the turn towards my second loop. Pain, legs were aching, fat cells were crying. It was around 32 deg F by now but I was sweating like hell. Stride length was getting shorter. Mile stone was showing 15miles. 11.2 more miles to go. While I was trying to gain momentum, the course headed towards a hilly road. I should have anticipated as I just did the course in my first loop. Pulled myself up till the aid station. Grabbed some bananas, oranges and some water. Was feeling better. Never felt the need for a potty break though. Reached the Mile 20. Mile 20-26 always gives me goose bumps. The part of the race that puts me to test. Earlier I could stretch myself and touch my toes without bending my knee. Now, that seemed to be an impossible and grueling task. My nerves have given up I believe. Still managed to do it in spite of the pain. Now the interesting thing in this race is there is a balloon lady, she walks/runs at a 6:00hr pace. If you fall behind her then you are out of the race. While stretching, I look behind and I see the balloon lady. Oh man, I can’t fall out of the race. I must do it. I must finish it, whatever it takes.

 Got some courage to pull myself and started running at a very good pace until I couldn’t see her. I was running like I stole something. Later I found that it was another runner with some heart shaped balloons celebrating the Valentine’s Day. Freak!! Thought would wait for her and beat her up but good I saw her else I wouldn’t have gained the pace. That running pace hurt though. Mile 24, 2.2 miles to go. This is where the theory of relativity comes into the picture. That Einstein guy was right, “When you sit with a good looking girl for two hours, it seems like two minutes but when you sit on a hot stove for two minutes, it seems like two hours, that’s relativity”. The next 2.2 miles was hot stove for me and it seemed like eternity. There were couple of runners ahead of me and decided to out run as many as possible. I would take advantage when they would walk just to see them passing me in a while. 25 miles into the race and the last 1.2 miles to go. 

I could feel the vibe already, am in the downtown area, people standing by the side cheering you. I was literally dragging myself with this new found energy. 26 miles, the final 200 yards, I could hear the music and the finish line comes into view. All pain and suffering vanished, I sprinted the last 200 yards and crossed the finish line. w00t. Nothing like the few seconds while crossing the finish line. I was soon wrapped in mylar blanket by a volunteer and was awarded my finisher medal and my finisher T-shirt. Finished it in 5:18:52

Garmin Data: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/25398605

 A very special race for me indeed. I ran this for the pure joy of running, to test myself and for other reasons only known for a few. There were hundreds of them crossing the finish line each for a cause and some for themselves. One lost her brother in Haiti, the other in memory of her child who died of cancer, some for their dear ones and many more reasons. Let me tell you something, you got to be at the finish line to experience what I am saying, wish I could put my feelings in words though. My friends crossed the finish line, 10 minutes after I finished. We hugged each other and said, “We survived, we did it”. Mercedes Medal and the Finisher T-Shirt were awesome. A sweet gift for my Valentine’s Day!

 

We were hunting for the Y! for shower but no luck. We were craving for Chick-fil-a sandwich though but found it closed and later realized it was Sunday. We had to settle for the second best and headed to Arby's. Had my favorite Roast beef sandwich and headed to Nashville. Done with a Half and Full, next would be the 50K and then the 50Mile. Jeez!!