Wilson Creek 50k Race Report

 Wilson Creek Frozen 50k Race Report

"There is magic in the madness."

Talk about a daunting challenge to start the New Year!  Well here it was.  Going into this race, I did not have true ultra distance mileage in my legs.  Don't get me wrong, I am in good shape and stay consistent all year long, averaging 40 miles a week in 2022, accumulating over 2000 running miles, however there is a different level of endurance when preparing to run anything over 26 miles.  Sometimes you just need to say "Fuck it" and do something that you know will push you to your limits.  This course especially, with over 6000 feet of elevation gain, undulating trails, and possible frigid weather conditions made things that more challenging.  

I signed up five weeks prior to the race, so I did have a few weeks to tailor my training for the ultra miles and hilly course I would be facing.  My training leading into the race was consistent, not perfect, but I ran/walked an average of 45-60 miles per week in the few weeks leading into the race.  I was able to get a couple longer 13 and 16 mile runs in the hills here in Boise.  I also utilized the treadmill in this training block as #dadlife needed to happen.  My treadmill workouts were hill focused, alternating between hiking up 15% inclines and jogging at 5-8% inclines.  I really wanted to laser in my effort levels at these different inclines so I could have a better understanding of the management of my energy output on race day.  This was not going to be like a flat course, where I could get into a rhythm, and bust out sub 8 minute miles.  I needed to practice a mix of hiking and jogging at lower effort levels and paces to manage my energy on the course effectively.  

The week going into an ultra (or any race for that matter), it is important to be fully recovered, rested, adequately fueled, hydrated properly and firing on all cylinders.  Of course, this is all easier said than done because normal life still happens.  However, I try my best to put a little more focus and attention on tools and modalities to promote the above qualities.  I get to sleep.  I focus on water and electrolyte intake.  I run less.  I stretch and work on my mobility.  I increase my caloric intake.  I consume more sodium.  I drink less beers.  All of these things matter.  

My main goal going into the race was to stay present.  Simply, take the race moment by moment, not to get caught in the rabbit hole of self-loathing and feeling sorry for myself.  Staying mindful and present keeps my mind focused to execute the nutrition plan, ease the physical pain I may be feeling, and keeps my mental state optimistic.  This truly makes for a more enjoyable journey.  

The gun went off just after 7:30 am.  Though it was a frigid 10 degrees when we started, we were blessed with a beautiful sunrise during the first 60 minutes of running.  Gorgeous orange and pink skies surrounded the snow capped mountains and it was a sight to be taken in.  I made sure to look around and enjoy the scenery because let's face it, it was a beautiful day. 

The first two undulating miles acted as our warm up as we knew the steep climb was quickly approaching.  As you can see on the course profile, the first doozy of a climb started at around mile 3 and would grind till mile 8.  These miles were mostly hiking in snow covered trails.  Moment by moment we kept climbing.  

The last mile up to the summit of the first climb was grueling.  Soft snow, slow hiking, burning legs, increasing elevation, made fore a tough segment to reach the summit.  But what goes up must come down, and I would finally get into a nice rhythm of running miles 8-13.  Miles 14 and 15 were steep climbs, I stayed present, kept my heart rate in check, took in some nutrition and continued to move along.  

Making it to the 20 mile aide station was a relief as it was a good pit stop back at the start/finish area. I took advantage of the aide station, refueled and told myself, "only 10 miles to go."  To my surprise, my family drove out to the trail to root me on!  This gave me a jolt of positive energy to finish the final 10 mile stretch on a strong note. 

Once I got going onto the 10 mile loop, I felt pretty solid and got into a nice running groove.  The scenery was beautiful and I made sure to snap some photos and appreciate the moments.  

I knew there was one more climb to go at around the 25 mile mark. I put my head down and grinded up the hill.  

The final aide station was at mile 27.  The climbing was over!  From here on out it was a nice decent into the finish line.  Luckily, I felt strong these last few miles and I was able to put together some faster mile splits.  

Finishing a run of this nature is exhilarating to say the least.  The body takes a beating but the physical soreness is worth the injection of endorphins and positive feelings you gain by conquering the mission.

For me, it gives me perspective to keep on working on myself.  To become a better husband and father.  

To keep on pursuing my goals...to continue to explore life's possibilities.  

The message of ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE is again reminded.  

The limits we have on ourselves CAN be pushed.  

We ARE capable of more than we think.  

We just have to be WILLING to do the work necessary.  

I will spend the next week allowing the body to fully recover.  Come back too quick and you risk injury.  I will strength train, cross train and keep moving this week.  Next week, I will get back into a running routine.  Spring races are around the corner so I will now switch focuses to shorter, faster training and racing.  

I appreciate the support and positive vibes I receive from my family and friends.  

Let's keep pursuing our goals!