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Saturday, August 17, 2024

AC100

AC100

A Lil' Southern California Classic Mountain Ultra | Ultramarathon #117

00:45 | Santa Barbara -- my alarm goes off. Get up, get dressed, and make coffee for the drive.

01:00 | Santa Barbara -- left my In-Laws house heading for the startline. I drove, Katie slept.

03:40 | Wrightwood -- arrived at start area in town. Bathroom stop & then a quick 20-minute nap in the vehicle.

04:00 | Wrightwood -- runner check-in for race. Final check over of all my gear in my pack.

 

04:30 | Wrightwood -- photo taken by Katie under the start arch in the community square. Katie wished me luck and headed back to her mom's to take care of the littles. My family would meet me in Altadena finish the next day.

05:00 | Wrightwood -- AC100 begins as runners started our journey from Wrightwood down to Altadena.

As the run started we left Wrightwood the large pack of lead runners headed out of town and led us up to the Acorn trail ascending the first 2,685 feet up into the high country. Firstly, the 0.8Mi or so was on the paved town roads before actually reaching the trailhead, but this was a neat part as a bunch of the local residents were out with their morning coffees standing there cheering and encouraging everyone one up the road. Great to see the community support for the race, especially since the point-to-point versions had not occurred since 2019. The run began with this steep ascent which was honestly a good thing as it forced me to hike and settle into the day. There was definitely very little running until we crested at the top of the Blue Ridge 5.5 Mi into the adventure, and by that time the sun was had risen for the day gracing us with warmth through the trees. It was somewhere around this peak where the route joined and ran on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). I absolutely love the PCT, as this was maybe my third (or fourth) time on sections of the PCT. Running up here in the high country was beautiful and the morning glow was not overwhelming yet. The scenes were vast and immense in all directions. I simply took in the breathtaking views and just enjoyed simply being there in the mountains on this run. 

enjoying the PCT sections in Angeles Forest high country.

The first marathon or so flew by as I was having a blast out there on the PCT portion of the route. Combination of the adrenalin from the race atmosphere and the fact it was not fully cooking out there just yet. The second big climb (3.8 Mi out of Vincent Gap) didn't even seem that bad because I was having such a good time out there getting up above 9,200 ft+ at Mt. Baden-Powell.

I would come look forward to the aid stations as the atmosphere at each one was so uplifting. The volunteer teams out here on AC100 were awesome. I would get a ice soak down as I came in each time to keep cool, then get all my snacks and coke I needed, while someone was inevitably filling my bottles, and another was refilling my rabbit ice RAD-dana for me. As I headed out of the aid stations I would get one last sponge bath on my head and/or back as I headed back on the trail. The aid station gatherings from the crews and spectators began to be quite large once we got to Islip Saddle. This made these experiences quite uplifting to run in and out of, which of course provided a nice boost for miles down the trail in turn.

The sun was out and there was no clouds anywhere in the sky at all, even in the distant California horizon. The day was heating up fast and the fell-like temperatures were warm up there in the higher altitudes. constant hydration was a key to this day. I intestinally kept a small constant drip of fluid going in.

Running down Highway 2 shoulder coming on the PCT heading to another portion of the singletrack trail. Photo: Paksit Photos.

Eagles Roost climb (around 28 Mile or so). Photo: Paksit Photos.

views from Newcomb Saddle.

One of the biggest sections of the course came in the middle of the day going from Shortcut to Newcomb aid stations. We were warned about this section during the pre-race brief due to the fact it was one of the longest sections without aid and also was exposed most likely in the heat of the day for the front-middle pack runners. There was a creek at the bottom of the initial 5 Mile(ish) Edison Road descent into this part of the course. I had passed a couple runners on the down but I stopped at the bottom in the creek (WF San Gabriel River) and dipped my one empty bottle in and filled it up as backup - I would drink from it as needed if my other bottles ran out. I also sat down in this flowing creek and submerged my legs taking advantage of nature's cooling. As I was sitting there three runners caught up to me and joined in the creek festivities. We left in a small group and headed up another 3 Mile limb out of this river valley which mirrored the descent we just did. It was a grind and I was definitely glad to have taken 5 minutes and cool my legs before heading out. The day was coming to a close as the sun was low but still blazing and there was no breeze at all. I finally reached the top of the climb and then it was the one out & back section of the course where we had to run up to a holepunch to mark our bibs as a sign we had made it there. I vaguely recall this in the pre-race talk being a "short" part, but it turned out to be 1.5 Mi each way, so I was a little bummed constantly starring at my watch wondering where that stupid punch was. I got there right at the point where I now absolutely needed to put my lights on. Punching my bib and headed back towards the route again, only a short distance now to the aid station. Time to get through the night. Standing there at Newcomb Saddle aid station one of the volunteers pointed way over to Red Box lights which you could see across the vast dark canyon below. They said "that is where you are headed next". It sure did look a far ways out.

The next sections were large net uphill and I spent a lot of the portion of the night miles grinding in a hike mode just pushing forward. I did take my time at the aid taking 15-20 minutes at least which certainly added to my overall time. A long 5.4 Mi push up to Red Box and then another 4.4 Mi climb all the way up the backside of Mt. Wilson took awhile. Getting up there provided some cool views of the LA metropolis in the distance below and its glowing lights. The contrast of being up high (still at 6,000 ft+ on Mt. Wilson summit) with the city lights below knowing that where the race led was pretty neat.

My 24 hour hopes had come and gone. I can't recall where but daylight finally broke again as it was "all" downhill into the finish. I soaked in the views of the city below as it slowly became closer and closer. There was more and more family hikers, runners, and mountain bikers out for their morning moves as the trail slowly grew in activity. Society was near, I could feel it as I followed the El Prieto Trail winding down into Altadena. Only a couple turns remained as I cruised down the streets. I could here the cheering and see all the vehicles parked around the Loma Alta Park. Crossing up onto the grass lawn and running the last 100 meters or so while everyone cheered and clapped up to the AC100 arch banner. I had did it.... number 41....what a journey!

Finishing AC100.
Photo: unknown from Facebook. 

Results & Data
T.Meding AC100 STRAVA map. Wrightwood to Altadena.


source: STRAVA.
a well earned t-shirt.

Post race nap awaiting the awards presentation with daughter 5. Photo: Katie Meding.

Buckle presentation with all 5 daughters & the RDs. Photo: Katie Meding.

Gear Used

  • Shirts - rabbit SS rabbitELITEtrail team kit
  • Shorts - rabbit 5" FKT 2.0
  • Headwear - rabbit (rnnr) rabbitELITEtrail team kit
  • EyeWear - goodr
  • Shoes - ACSIS Fuji Speed 4
  • Socks - rnnr rabbitELITEtrail team kit
  • Hydration - NATHAN Trailmix 12L pack with (x2) 20oz soft flasks and x2 NATHAN 18oz soft insulated handhelds.
  • Lighting setup - kogalla RA Adventure Light (waistlamp) & Nathan Sports Halo Fire (headlamp)
  • Anti-Friction Lube - Squirrels Nut Butter
  • Watch - Garmin fēnix® 6X - Pro Solar Edition
  • Other - rabbit ice RAD-dana
  • Other Backup - (carried in pack // not used) rabbit HAWKS swish pullover & rabbit LS deflector 2.0 with hood


Source: Ultrarunning Magazine, 1988.
Final Thoughts

AC100 is a great race and I highly recommend it this 100 Mi point-to-point race if you can get in. Being one of the original 100 Milers in the United States it has that old school feel along with all the excitement of the route and history of the event. Put this one on your race bucket list. If you can swing it I'd recommend entering via the "SOLO" division as it increases your odds of getting in, but then of course you cannot have any crews nor spectators on course - this is the whole value of the SOLO division to reduce the traffic and congestion on these back roads and high country trailheads.

I think the best part of this race looking back is probably the volunteers out there. I have been to many races and not many would compare to the personal service I got treated to at nearly every single stop out here on AC. From the time I entered the aid area there was always someone coming right up to me and taking my bottles to fill them for me without hesitation while usually another person would be taking my food order. Of course, the water service, be it sponges or ice packing, or simple spray downs were also huge throughout the day to assist in topical cooling. It was just truly first-class service from fellow ultrarunner volunteers in the community, so thank you to anyone who was out there helping out that day.

My updated buckle collection. Holding my AC100 engraved finishers plaque (very unique and personalized for a 100 Mile finish). Customized buckle display built by my dad.
Photo: Katie Meding.


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Thanks for checking out my race report on AC100.


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Monday, July 15, 2024

ART doesn't always turn out

Trying to Design My Own A.R.T.

Sometimes Things Don't Go As Envisioned.

Ultramarathon #116 | FKT #003 - Arnold Rim Trail (ART)

My Personal Background of the Arnold Rim Trail (ART) 

I have known about the ART for about 4 years now ever since going to visit my in-laws place in Arnold for portion of our summer vacation back in 2021. Each year I have been lucky enough to make it work with remote work environment and join my wife & kids and come back each summer for a week in the July time frame. In 2021 I discovered the trail existed and ran a bit of it (the San Domingo section from Avery Rd to the Heliport). I fell in love with the trail remoteness and views out there for sure. I vowed to hopefully come back and run the full trail. The following year in 2022 there was some trail closures (due to some trail work) and thus I never even got out on the trail at all that year while in Arnold.  In 2023 I came to Arnold again to discover the trail had actually been lengthened officially from the Heliport (18.9 Mi) to a further southern point of the Fullen Rd trailhead (22.8 Mi). Due to having an upcoming race (Tahoe 200) within 2 weeks after our trip to Arnold in 2023 I did not attempt the out & back version of the ART. Instead, my long run was just the ART-reverse going from Fullen Rd all the way back to the start at the Logging Museum in Arnold. I submitted some updated route information to the Fastest Known Time website to include the newest trail extension from 18.5 to 22.8 Mi as that was not on there yet. I vowed to come back and set the FKT or give it a go the following year if I managed to get back again. 

2024 rolls around and we are back to Arnold for our week again in July! It was time....
My FKT attempt was definitely a tale of two distinct halves of my adventure. 

OUTBOUND - the First Half (0.0 - 22.8 Mi): smooth and steady

Taken just prior to setting off at the 0.0 Mi trailhead sign in
Arnold at the Logging Museum. Photo: Katie Meding.
Dropped off at the trailhead in the early hours about 40 minutes before true sunrise. My wife, Katie drove me the few miles from our place and documented my start with a couple pictures and a short video of me heading off. I officially started my out and back journey at 05:27 about 20 minutes before the sun was up. There was however enough light to see sufficiently without a headlamp. My pack was heavy enough with all the fluids I was carrying to not worry about another small item such as a head torch.

The outbound journey was pretty straightforward and uneventful (as planned). Climbing up to the highest peak of the route I was treated to the rising sun in the distance behind me which created a nice orange glow to the cloudy solo morning.  It was truly peaceful and fulfilling out there in the forest.

sunrise on my way up to Manuel Peak (4,445 ft+), the highest point on the ART route.
Taken at 06:18 just under an hour into the run.

After cresting the high point I followed the ridgeline admiring the vast views to my right. I paused briefly on the Top of the World took in the view and then made a strategic decision here to drop/place one of my 32oz electrolyte drinks here for the way back just to save some weight on my back. I found a nice log not far off the trail and placed my bottle underneath (foreshadow alert!). I continued onward passed Cougar Rock the followed the ART as it dipped back into the forested area which somewhat parallels Highway 4 between Arnold and Hathaway Pines.

Everything going smooth as I dropped down over Avery Sheep Ranch Road and into the San Domingo section towards the Heliport and ultimately the southern terminus of the ART (Fullen Rd). The morning thus far had provided overcast cloudy conditions, which was a huge change from the week as it had been sunny and low 90s in Arnold. I very much appreciated the cooler running conditions this day (foreshadow alert #2!). Looking across the Arnold rim has always been a pleasant sight as I am grateful to move through the Stanislaus National Forest and be able to do these type of activities.

Pointing out the Heliport pad (@18.9/22.8 Mi) in the distance across the Arnold rim.

Passing the Heliport I knew there was just under 4 miles to the end of the ART. I continued to move well even as the sun started to poke through the clouds at random short intervals. Luckily this final portion of trail is covered quite well inn shade from the tall surrounding trees of the forest. With just over a mile to go the trail finally stops descending down from the rim (again...) into the bottom where San Domingo Creek lies and then it is a steep 1.2 Mi climb back out to Fullen Rd and the current end of the ART route, where I would turn around. I made another strategic decision here; I took off my vest and splashed my face and neck with the cool creek waters. I took only 1 handheld and my phone (to document) with me for the last climb to the turnaround point. This would give my back a slight break of having to carry my pack before the journey back to Arnold. 

Half way @ Fullen Rd trailhead (22.8 Mi)
I arrived at the top of the rim hitting the Fullen Rd trailhead sign and marking my time at 05:09:35 to complete the first half of my out and back attempt. A short three and a half minute break was warranted as I had some dried fruit and gummies snacks. The sun was now strikingly hot as it pierced through the clouds to its full extent. I somehow had the feeling that my A-goal of 10 hours was not really in play since it was a net uphill back to the starting point. My thoughts remained optimistic through that perhaps a solid sub-11 was in the cards for today. 


INBOUND - the Second Half (22.8 - 45.6 Mi): wheels have fallen off

I left Fullen Rd heading back down to the San Domingo Creek to retrieve my vest and push onwards. My goal was to have my longer "halfway break" here in the shade and at the creek to cooldown (the 3.5 minute stop at the top was a simple photo op and snack break). For reference the starting temperature was about 73f in the morning at Arnold, 90f during my first crossing of San Domingo creek outbound, 95f at the turnaround point on Fullen Rd, and did reach a high point of 104f during my inbound journey according to my Garmin-STRAVA data. It felt all of that and more admis the rock backdrop of the rim wall in places.

At San Domingo Creek back at my vest I simply put my plan in place, sat down, organized my bottles drinks as I had pre-planned for the inward trek, got out my snack bags, took off my socks and shoes, and then lowly ate calories as I shuffled my lower body into the creek to lower my temperature. Luck was on my side as there were no mesquites present near the flowing creek at this time of day - a true blessing. I took a full 15 minute break here in the water fully submersed my legs and the occasional dunking of my full body to keep myself wet and cool.

After my break I thought it was sufficient time to cooldown and I certainly felt better, so I got up put my hydration vest back on and trudged forward. The next few miles were some of the hottest sections of the day as the Arnold Rim Trail winded back out of the trees onto more exposed portions of the trail with rock as the background to the piercing afternoon sun. Suddenly I felt super tired and drained only 5 Mi back on the inbound. I took 2 separate dirt trail naps in the shade because I felt my heart rate spiking in the heat and I had no other solution at the time. I could literally feel my time goal(s) slipping away quickly. My ART run was no becoming more about survival and simply getting the near 46 Mi journey completed altogether. There was another tiny creek that I had dipped my hat in on the way out that I saw had a spot big enough to sit in and submerged my legs again. This was around 31.8 Mi and I took time here to drastically cool my core temperature by soaking in the water - it helped a lot, but I was way behind my own expectations. Ultrarunning is a lot about overcoming adversity and simply pursuing forward progress even when things are not going your way on the day. My FKT attempt was now on this track.

Two things lie in front of me I was grasping onto to pull me towards the end of this run. First was the Cowell Creek crossing around marker 7.8 Mi. Secondly, the Top of the World peak where I had placed my 32oz bottle about marker 5.5 Mi was going to be refreshing and the hydration I needed to get me through.

This look basically sums up my inbound journey on the ART today.

Pressing on the shade of the trees again was a welcome brief relief from the peak heat of the afternoon even as the ambient temperature was still elevated. Finally reaching the creek with 8 miles to go I again took a few minutes and literally submerged my entire body in the small narrow creek. After a couple minutes of cooling down I felt my energy and draw of the finish rise again within me. I was able to move a little better and faster again after my dousing.  I only had a little bit of my water on me left so I was rationing it and timing it to reach the Top of the World and my last bottle.

I took another sip from my bottle shaking it to see how little was left. Not far now....almost to the peak....

I arrived up the little grind my Cougar Rock up to Top of the World. I took a v-line directly for where I had stashed my bottle on my outbound trip, anxiously awaiting to refill my 2 soft flasks which were essentially dried up now. Wait....what!?....where is my bottle??? I checked under the log I placed it and looked around close by but nothing, no empty bottle, no signs of anything. I sat down for a minute and had a big pity party as I starred into my soft flask with about 2 oz of fluid left - that was it. It was 90f and I was nearing dehydration already cutting it close on fluid consumption and really counting on this last 32 oz bottle on being here. At last it was not and I realized there was literally nothing I could do about it except press on and somehow grind it out. Super slow and steady I kept moving and paced myself with lots of walk/hike breaks trying not to over exert myself at this point. Time goals were all gone and now it was just about finishing up the ART and setting a time on the FKT board, even if it was a lot slower. I took tiny sips just to wet my lips every half mile or so, saving the little fluid I had. My mouth was starting to hurt from dryness.

I finally reached the paved portion of the path, which meant I just had the initial 0.8 Mi to go to the 0.0 Mi trailhead start. This was my sign to finish off my drink and get home! I passed a pair of backpackers (one of only a couple people I saw out there all day) as I managed to run a little back into the parking lot. I saw my van there as my wife was there awaiting to pick me up. I ran passed the trailhead sign, stopped took a quick pic of my watch, and promptly asked for water. I downed an entire single serve water bottle and asked for more. Two minutes of catching my breath then I took of my pack and chatted briefly with my wife while we went the 150 feet or so down to White Pines Lake where I grabbed a cold coke & Athletic Brewing non-alcoholic Run Wild IPA and went and sat in the water to cool down as I attempted to rehydrate. A short 15-20 minute soak and then I got out and dried off as we headed back to the cabin for a proper shower and cleanup. 

I had envisioned a grand piece of ART today, but it did not quite turn out the way I wanted. I was a full 3.5 hours behind my A-goal (10 hours) and 1.5 hours behind what I thought was the realistic goal (12 hours). The heat of the day had come out to play and spit me out. The thing about ultrarunning is you never know and just have to roll with what the day gives you. Time to recover and finish up my training block as I look forward to #AC100 in just under 3 weeks.

My Garmin showing my time (official stopped at 13:39:59) back in the Logging Museum parking lot.

My STRAVA route and splits.

Aftermath of my scratched-up legs from the rugged and less-used portions of the ART trail where wild thorny plants took over most of the singletrack. It was not as bad as the prior year in 2023 when I ran one-way ART route, however the thorns still persisted out there.


Arnold Rim Trail website: Arnold Rim Trail – Hiking, biking & horseback riding in Arnold, CA

Official FKT route link: Arnold Rim Trail (CA) | Fastest Known Time

My STRAVA link and data: Arnold Rim Trail (out & back) FKT, Arnold, CA | Run | Strava


Gear Used

  • Shirts - rabbit SS rabbitELITEtrail team kit, rabbit LS UPF deflector 2.0 with hood
  • Shorts - rabbit 5" shredders 2-in-1 trail
  • Headwear - rabbit (rnnr) rabbitELITEtrail team kit
  • Shoes - ACSIS GEL-Trabuco 13
  • Socks - DryMax
  • Hydration - NATHAN Pinnacle 12L race pack with (x2) 20oz soft flasks, and also (x2) 18oz handheld soft flasks
  • Watch - Garmin fēnix® 6X - Pro Solar Edition
  • Other - iPhone with Gaia GPS app (as a backup to my watch)

Final Thoughts on the ART

This is a very cool trail in a small mountain town. If you ever pass through the area or are up towards Lake Tahoe, the PCT (Ebett's Pass), or even just Bear Valley Ski Resort I would recommend the area for a day hike or run of the Arnold Rim Trail. There are many access points from the town where you can make short routes not having to do the trail from one end or the other. The ridge line which contains the high peaks (Manuel, Top of the World, and Cougar Rock) are such a great viewpoint to hike up to I would definitely recommend.

Overall, the ART is super well marked having proper (and new) signposts along the way and at every single junction. It would take a lot for someone to get lost or off-track as it is that simple to follow even if you have never been there. 

The southern section down passed Avery Sheep Ranch Road coming out of Avery, CA is quite remote and off-grid per say. You are no longer next to the town directly at this point and so your only way out is either end of the trail. This being said my favorite section is probably the San Domingo miles because of this remoteness and the vast views down the valley you get as you traverse multiple times up and down the rim itself. The heliport (18.9 Mi) is right next to Highway 4 as this used to be the end of the ART trail, but now continues on to Fullen Rd where it is super remote, and nothing is there at all except a trailhead sign along this lonely secondary back road. If you are starting or finishing here you will need to arrange a ride ahead of time. Also of note that I did not have cell service for majority of the entire trail, only small portions on the high points (I currently have AT&T provider). Might be a good idea to carry a Garmin InReach or similar satellite tracker for safety.


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Thanks for checking out my trip report and my ultra blog
Next: Angeles Crest Endurance Run 100 Mi (2024-Aug-03)





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Sunday, June 23, 2024

A Year of Chasing Buckles

12-in-12 | A Look Back

My year long personal project is now complete (...sort of).  Here is a brief look back.


[JUN] Ring the Springs 100

  • Went as well as I could hope. Travelling to Colorado for the weekend and performing well at altitude is always nice. Getting to the play in the Rockies is a true gift, and I can not wait till next time. A solid 4th place overall there was a great result as well.
  • Race Report: Ring the Springs 100Mi

[JUL] Tahoe 200

  • A blessing in disguise as getting into this event late due to the 2023 date change combined with my unfortunate cancellation/delay of AC100 led me to get into Tahoe. This has been on my bucket list for a while and was worth it for sure. Running in the high Sierra alpines and terrain was spectacular.  My only wish is that the course was still the full loop. I was still modified due to closure of wilderness area and was not the full loop around the lake - perhaps reason to go back one year.
  • Race Report: Holy Shit That Is A Big Lake
  • Podcast: Texas Outlaw Running Talk Show, EP #34 | YouTube version: Tahoe 200 Mile Finisher - Trevor Meding - YouTube

[AUG] Habanero Hundred

  • I was humbled here with only my 4th Did Not Finish (D.N.F.) in my time of ultrarunning. I knew this one would be tough with the dryness and extreme summer heat Texas has been having. Sandwiching this event between two 200s might not have been the best choice but it was so coinvent being only an hour from our house. On hindsight I wish I had chosen another mountain one in Colorado instead, but scheduling did not allow.
  • Race Report: What A Dumb Idea

[SEP] The Divide 200

  • A trip back home to Alberta was long overdue and what better way to draw me in than a long ultramarathon. I took 2 weeks off from work and went to visit my folks back in my hometown and then run in Canada's first 200 miler. Sinister Sports & WURA put on a great event that provided the most remote and wild terrain to run through. It was truly amazing to be able to run through this mountain wilderness coupled with the great weather that occurred. This was a very hard race but such a great experience. 
  • Race Report: Alberta Bound | Ultramarathon #107

[OCT] Big Tex Backyard Ultra

  • Another backyard ultra...why not....I love this format. Well shit. I picked this weekend as it aligned with my schedule and knowing that running this type of race would not be a guaranteed "100 Mi" attempt. Little did I know that it was about to come true. I had a poor day (again in a backyard) which only allowed me to complete a 12 yard (50 Mi) official distance. Since I was commited to some other obligations for the remainder of the month I did not have time to attempt another 100 miler for October sadly. This really hampers my #12in12 attempt, but such is life with family and full-time work.
  • Ultimately this means I Did Not Start (D.N.S.) a true 100 Mi event for October

[NOV] Dinosaur Valley Endurance Run

  • I had not been back to this event in 5 years. I took the opportunity to hop in last minute and take on another looped course that was easy to self crew. The Dinosaur Valley State Park is a great place to run and provides moderate elevation changes and some nice singletrack out there. My goal of achieving another sub-24 hour finished was realized.
  • Race Report: Return to Dino Valley

[DEC] Loup Garou Trail Run

  • I was back to this race for my second time ever and this time for the full loop experience. I had been here in a modified course year which was an out and back so coming for the full loop around Chicot State Park was a big draw to get me back to this local lowkey ultramarathon. I recommend this race to anyone looking for a late year end race at a very reasonable cheap price comparatively speaking these days.
  • Race Report: December in the Deep South

[JAN] The Conquer Toughest Backyard Ultra

  • I had been struggling to find a 100 Mi race close for January and put myself on the waitlist for this new backyard format because it was advertised as tough and even had some prize money. I got in with 3 days to go and so I packed myself up and headed to Georgia. It was cold and super hard to stay warm throughout the event, but that was all part of the challenge design. Ultimately, I had to bow out just after 15 hours, which equated to miles, but over 15k of elevation gain.
  • Ultimately this means I Did Not Start (D.N.S.) a true 100 Mi event for January either.

[FEB] Run LOViT

  • This one was on my bucket list for a while and I jumped at the opportunity to go run by Lake Ouachita in the woods. A beautiful and challenging course that proved to be worth the trip to Arkansas. 
  • Race Report: I LOViT

[MAR] Grasslands Trail Run

  • This one was a relatively short drive, put on by local Texas running company, and as a bonus was a nice decent price to enter. These 100 miles started off in a blistering PR-like fashion as the weather was gorgeous. Then mother nature opened up with rain and thunderstorms and it became a complete grind in the mud to get this one done. Persistence was key this day.
  • Race Report: Grasslands? More Like Mudlands!

[APR] Arbuckle 100 Mi

  • An inaugural race year and touted as a tough 100 miles I took on the challenge. This was a small race put on at an offroad ATV park. The terrain was super rocky, steep, punchy climbs for half the course made worse by thunderstorms that not only slicked up the course, but created standing water nearly everywhere as there was no flat spots on these rutted out ATV roads. The course was tough and the elements made it that much more, but I managed to finish within the allotted 30-hour cutoff to take the victory & course record as I was the only finisher of the event in this small field.
  • Race Report: Arbuckle 100

[MAY] The Hellbender One Hundred

  • Another bucket list race that I realized with a quick trip out to North Carolina made for a great ending to my #12in12. Hellbender was recently granted HR-Qualifier status and thus is a very popular race out East even though it is only a few years old at this point. I absolutely had a blast running up and down the mountains in NC and even getting to peak out on Mount Mitchell (highest point East of the Mississippi). A thunderstorm came in fast and made for my 3rd race in a row with rain. The shear steepness and technicality of the course proved to me that East [ Beast] Coast running is no joke. One of my longer times in terms of a 100 mile event, but I was still up near the top third of the finishers on this tough loop.
  • Race Report: To Hell & Back

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So lets total all of this up. A full calander year of Chasing Buckles and attempting to take on a 100 Miler or longer each month.  I managed to run injury free for the entire year and continue to knock off more 100 Milers on my chase to continue to build my 100x100 lifetime list.
  • 12 months, 12 ultramarathons:
    • x1 D.N.F. (Habanero)
    • x2 Last Person Standing events. Sadly, I did not achieve 100 Mi mark in either of these. (Big Tex, The Conquer)
    • x2 200 Mi completed (Tahoe, The Divide)
    • x7 100 Mi completed. (Ring the Springs, Dinosaur Valley, Loup Garou, LOViT, Grasslands, Arbuckle, Hellbender One Hundred)
  • A total of x9 more buckles added to my collection!

I took this challenge on by starting in June just after the May announcement of the 2023-24 #rabbitELITEtrail team. I aligned my personal challenge to go throughout the entire season of being selected back onto the team. To me it seemed fitting since 2023 is The Year of the rabbit. I am super humble and honored to be still chosen to be on the rabbit trail team and so I wanted to do something challenging this year as I raced in my rabbit gear supporting the brand and sharing my journey.

I had a blast on this journey. I found myself at a lot of new races (for me) which is always fun to be able to try out a new event, meet new people, and take on new trails. As a bonus I added 9 new cool buckles into my collection! Essentially, I took all my focus off shorter ultras (i.e. 50 km, 50 Mi, 100 km) and solely focused on the 100 Milers, and a couple beyond. The hundred has always been my favorite distance since discovering ultrarunning and I think this year solidified this for me in a big way. I just love the journey of attempting to cover the distance in 1 day -- or there abouts. My 100 Miler collection now sits at forty finishes and now my next focus will shift towards getting to fifty and being halfway to the 100x100 Lifetime Club (which there is now thirty worldwide members as of this writing in 2024-Jun). 

I do not have any specific plans in terms of timeframe but realistically sometime around the end of 2025 would seem reasonable at my historical pace of running these ultras. My next event is scheduled for Aug-03 as I am in Angeles Crest 100 in California. Looking forward very much to this event as it is one of the older Hundreds in America and deemed a classic by many. Plus it is notorious for being hard to get into now, so I have to take care of my lottery luck and get it done with my entry.

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Huge thank you to rabbit and the team there for supporting me on my journey to now forty 100-mile finishes. I ran my very first Hundred in 2017 after being selected as a RADrabbit, and since have been lucky enough to be on the rabbitELITEtrail team. Check out there new apparel (& shoes) on their website an on the socials.

Thank you as well to Athletic Brewing for helping me choose healthier drink choices. I often enjoy a Golden Dawn Lager after my runs as it is light and refreshing, especially on the warmer days. My favorite though has to be the classic Run Wild IPA. Check out Athletic Brewing for yourself (CLICK HERE for 20% discount code) with my referral link.


see you on the trails
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Saturday, May 18, 2024

To Hell and Back

A Taste of True Beast Coast Trails

Ultramarathon #115 | A New HR Qualifier in North Carolina

Pre Race

16 hour driving time - TX to NC.
Headed East I travelled late Wednesday night and through most of Thursday to make the 16-hour drive time to get myself out to Old Fort, North Carolina. I arrived at Camp Grier just outside of town right as the pre-race meeting was kicking off. I had arrived without a minute to spare.  I had made the trek in around 20 hours total time which included my stops for fuel, snacks, and sleep (a mini ultra in itself). I hustled up to the crowd gathered and listened in on the information being put forth by the race directing crew.  All the usual stuff was being touted but I paid close attention when they did the course description and preview. Once all the pertinent information was passed out I got myself near the front of the line up for the free dinner put on by the Camp Grier for all the runners. After my fill, I walked back over to my car and got my shoes on - time for a little shakeout run to get the blood flowing in the legs after the long travel. I looked on the STRAVA map and picked a trail I would not be running in the morning, and just went for a couple miles out and back before sunset.

pre race briefing & quick shakeout run at Camp Grier.
I took a few minutes to sort out my gear and pack up my vest for the morning, so everything was ready to go. I nestled down in my car for the night in the car camping spots right across from the start/finish. It was a nice convenient spot and due to the long travel I was pretty tired and went to sleep quickly.  The early 04:30 start time was quickly approaching....

The Run

The morning sky was dark but clear as the stars were clearly visible above through the gaps in tree tops. What a beautiful day to run 100 Miles I thought to myself as I stood there awaiting the countdown. I was ready and excited to explore the North Carolina mountains. Off we went into the darkness of the early morning with the first few miles uphill on a easy gravel road to get us settled in.... I started in the near back of the pack at the start in order to govern myself off the start. This being a known hard race I knew that patience at the start would be key to a successful finish. The first sunlight was around 06:30 so we had 2 hours of low light conditions which also helped slow me down a bit on the start.

I settled into hiking all the ups (which was a lot at the start) and running the flats and downs, while trying to remain in control of my pace and not blow out my quads too early. The sun was out early as it crept up over the background of the mountains and peering through the trees. The humidity was high to start and felt quite warm as soon as we had begun moving early in the morning. The trails were rooty and rocky as we climbed up headed for the first high point. I kept patient and tried to throttle my pace again on the next big downhill, all the way down from ~5,200 ft+ losing all 3k of elevation (and more) that I had just earned on the previous climb. From there is was right back up the other mountain from 2,000 ft+ back to ~5,000 ft+ again. There was a remote water aid station setup here out of a van on the side of the road. Super low key, but done right by some awesome couple of volunteers whom offered up anything and helped fill up my bottles. I took off my hydration vest and grabbed a selfie of the NC mountainous scenery from the road lookout, because why not?

Blue Ridge Parkway (Green Knob) water drop station (mile 27.5). Nearing 7 hours into race time.

After a quick hydration stop I dropped only about 2k of elevation loss on my way to Neals Creek aid station for the 1st time (outbound) which equated to having completed ~50 km (31.7 Mi) at this point now. Not studying the map super closely before hand I knew that the biggest climb (Mount Mitchell) was in the front portion of the course but once I got into the second major climb I thought this was it...however I was mistaken as I had to grind all the way up, then run all the way back down before taking on the long 5.75 Mi grind up to the summit of Mitchell. I think for some reason I thought this summit was ~50 km into the race, but in reality is was just over 60 km into the course. No matter I was not super bummed on that aspect, I just had it in my mind from the quick map glances it was sooner. 

Leaving the campground at the bottom this trailhead was clearly well used and you could tell the trail was a popular hiking destination. There were sign posts half mile on the way up signaling the distance done as well as remaining. I passed many people, most on their way back down at this point in the day at it was reaching later afternoon now. As I gained in elevation the clouds were growing darker in the distance, although I did not think too much of it yet. Next thing I knew I was slowly making my way to the very top. I had found m way to the highest point on the East Coast and obviously highest point of the course.

Mount Mitchell 6,684 ft+. (mile 38).

After taking a quick video at the top of Mount Mitchell on the platform I came down and headed towards the picnic area not far below where the aid station was set up. As you can see from the video clip it was windy and the rain clouds were coming in quite fast at this point, although I still did not realize how fast. I got into the small semi-enclosed area at the picnic shelter and asked for some warm soup & broth from the aid station volunteers. and just like that it started getting darker and darker, and then in an instant it started just pouring as a couple more runners came into the aid picnic shelter seeking cover from the elements. 

Mt. Mitchell Picnic Area (mile 38.2). Taken only maybe 5 minutes after my video above. I was already cold and brought out my rabbit Treeline rain jacket. Photo: Schreiner Trail Photography

I did not want to linger too long up here, as it was the highest point, it was exposed and thus a little cold from the wind and now rain, and plus I was getting colder by the minute by not moving and generating heat. I layered up and prepared to head out into the rain, with another lady and her pacer. The three of us pressed on leaving Mitchell and following the trail along the ridge. This section of ridge running was slow going and very technical on a good day. The was large step downs and step ups a few ropes set up in one section, and just nasty pointy rocks everywhere. Made worse by Mother Nature as she was making herself known as it was not long after setting out from the aid station before the hail started. I simply put my rain hood up and continued on with the 2 ladies as we all worked together grinding through these ~3.5 ridge miles....very....very...slowly. I pulled out my gloves and put them on too even though they got soaked instantly they did provide a slight warmth to my cold hands as the temperature dropped significantly since the storm moved in. 

STRAVA segment: Mt Mitchell North to Colbert Ridge | Strava Run Segment in North Carolina
My stats= time: 1h 40min, pace: 26:33 min/Mi
This ridge run goes from Mt. Mitchell northward over Mount Craig, Big Tom, Balsam Cone, Cattail Peak, Potato Hill then finally descends down to Deep Gap. The STRAVA segment ends here and continues onto Colbert Ridge to the aid Colbert's Creek (46.3 Mi).

The trail was literally flowing as the rain began to pick up and really soak us to the core. BOOOOM! A loud crack of thunder was not that far off as the storm was passing directly over us now. Not exactly the ideal time to be at the highest section of the race. But I also knew that going forward would take me down in elevation (eventually), whereas turning around would only take me back to the highest point of Mount Mitchell - really it was not even a choice or something I thought of. A big flash came followed by the loud crackle. The storm was gaining in proximity. In total there were 4 flashes of lightning that I saw around us up there on the ridge. I felt relatively safe as we were amongst trees...and well I did not want to stop moving and get even colder. Onward I went, leap frogging with the 2 ladies as we slashed in the accumulating mini river on the trails. This was by far the coldest and wettest I was during the race as the rain continued to pound down. Luckily the lightning portion passed over relatively quickly and moved on. 

Once the ridge run portion of this segment was over it was another 4 miles straight down rocky wet rocky terrain all the way to the next aid station. This was the near half way point of the race. It is listed at 46.3 Mi on the race guide, but I show it was closer to 48.5 Mi (which makes sense since the race is actually 103 Mi in total). I was defeated from the rain and just simply staggered up to the aid station grabbing some coke-cola straight away to help perk me up. I was soaked and a little down mentally but spent about 12 minutes here eating some warm soup before continuing onward. The trail was relatively flat leaving Colbert's Creek aid station for like a mile, maybe a little more, and then it was back to a relentless grind back towards Mount Mitchell for another 4.5 Mi up or so. The trail was a softer trail here and held the water too well, making it impossible to keep your feet dry. It was dark now and the warmth was now fading even faster as the rain slowed to an off and on drizzle. 

Since the last section was all uphill, you guessed it - it was now all downhill for the next 7.5 Mi to Horse Toe aid station, which equated to 100 km+ (~65 Mi) behind me at this point. I only filled up my one bottle as I was not drinking as much in the colder conditions and it was a mere 4.5 Mi back to Neal Creek aid station for the second time. I was slow. I was cold. I was tired. The course was beating me up. My feet were still completely soaked and not the most comfortable situation. Onward I pressed. Night was against me I was desperately awaiting the second sunrise and a hopeful surge in my circadian rhythm. 

Photo: Schreiner Trail Photography
Sleep seemed to be winning but I willed my way forward and kept trudging on with those damp socks irritating my poor feet. I focused my mind elsewhere and fought through, but I was not moving fast at all. Downhill running was super slow now due to sore quads and sore uncomfortable feet, but I knew I just had to push. I not sure when but the first light was not enough, it took about an hour of sunlight before I finally popped awake (so to say) and felt awake again, no longer stumbling and bumbling my way along. The day also brought clear skies again and a little bit of warmth back into the air. As the sun rose I was able to put away my jacket and the long sleeve layer I had put on in the night just to keep my core warm. 

What lie in front of me was a long downhill section, a small bump (couple mile) climb and then about 3ish miles down into the finish back at Camp Grier. My descending was awful and slow at this point now reaching well over a full day of running. I had a brief thought I could break 30 hours, but then i realized where I the reality set in that I was not near that time at all. But no matter I just kept going and eventually got to the very last aid station at the bottom of the ravine on Jarrett Creek. I took just a couple minutes here getting in some fuel and then took off with a new goal of attempting to get in under 32 hours. It would be close as with 1 mile to go I got within ear shot of the camp and the trail winded around and around the mountain track away, towards, and then back away from the camp. I kept glancing at my watch as it was getting a lot closer than I thought to break this arbitrary 32-hour mark. But I pushed and ran quite fast for the last half mile to squeak in just under 32 hours.

holding up my fingers to signal my 40th 100 Mi or more finish here at Hellbender. Photo: Schreiner Trail Photography.

Final Thoughts

What a journey. One of my longer 100 mile efforts in terms of time-wise due to the nature of the terrain, combined with me being a South Texas flatlander currently, and just the curve ball of the rain storm that made it that much more interesting for us runners. Would I change anything? No. I had a blast, my heart is full from my first trip to North Carolina and getting to experience the mountains of the East [Beast] Coast. I would rank this 100 as one of the harder ones I've done in terms of my mountain 100s and would most definitely recommend this one to anyone whom wants to get into the Hardrock lottery now that they have that distinction. 

My poor feet were near trench foot like after being soaked for about 20 hours non-stop after the rainstorms. Sadly I was not wearing the best soaks for drainage, nor did I have any drop bags or spare socks, so I just had to deal with it. I survived. :) Luckily no blisters, just water damage per say.

This is the Hellbender crew whom put this event on. What a great job on executing a great race complete with excellent flagging, provided a .gpx for the runners, hosted amazing aid stations with their volunteer army, and even had GPS tracking for our family to follow along at home. The buckle is a thing of simplistic beauty as well! Thank you for a great race (I may have to come back).
Photo: Schreiner Trail Photography.

Shortly after crossing the finish I waddled over to my car, which was only like 200 feet from the finish chute, and got my towel and fresh change of clothing. My first priority was getting out of my stinky, sweaty, dirty gear and taking a shower at the provided cabins at Camp Grier - such a nice perk after a long run like this! Next was a trip over to the snack tables where the volunteers were cooking up burgers so I indulged in that offering as well. Lastly after some hydration I then went back to the cabins and lay down on one of the cots for an hour nap to perk myself up before prepping for the long journey back to Texas.

Thank you North Carolina, and thank you Run828 for the event.

Results & Data


This might be one of my favorite buckles. I love the color simplicity combined with the topography background.

Gear Used

  • Jackets - rabbit Treeline rain jacket
  • Lighting setup - kogalla RA Adventure Light (waistlamp) & Nathan Sports Halo Fire (headlamp)
  • Shirts - rabbit SS rabbitELITEtrail team kit, rabbit LS deflector 2.0 with hood
  • Shorts - rabbit 5" shredders 2-in-1 trail
  • Headwear - rabbit (rnnr) rabbitELITEtrail team kit, rabbit BOCO beanie
  • Gloves - rabbit BOCO
  • Shoes - ACSIS GEL-Trabuco 13
  • Socks - injinji
  • Hydration - NATHAN Trailmix 12L pack with (x2) 20oz soft flasks
  • Anti-Friction Lube - Trail Toes
  • Watch - Garmin fēnix® 6X - Pro Solar Edition

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Thanks for checking out my race report and following along on with my blog
Next: Angeles Crest Endurance Run 100 Mi (2024-Aug-03)
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