To be honest, I’m not basing my decision about which ultramarathon to make my first on many criteria. The most important thing is proximity. We need to be able to drive there. I’m already making an exception by flying to Boston (whoa, I better book a flight soon!) but that’s a special case.
So I’ve settled on the Kettle Moraine 100 in Wisconsin. Within driving distance, family lives in Wisconsin, etc, etc. I almost ran–well, almost registered to run–the North Face Endurance Challenge in Madison last year, and from the sound of it they use the same trails. Of course, the North Face Endurance Challenge would have been 50 miles, whereas for Kettle Moraine I’m looking at doing the full 100.
I’m conflicted about the distance. On the one hand, doing 50 seems like a waste of an opportunity. I’ve run 50 miles by myself. I run 50K all the time. I should push myself. But on the other hand, 100 miles is intimidating. 24+ hours is intimidating. The whole thing is intimidating.
12,000 feet of climbing is a scary thought. It’s not the 18,000 feet of the Western States 100, but it’s significantly more than, say the Lean Horse 100.
There are other considerations, too. No buckle for finishers (you get a kettle instead.) But it works schedule-wise, and travel-wise, etc. And it might provide an opportunity to meet up with Rob again. So there are lots of reasons to do it.
And so I will, barring any unforeseen circumstances. But not without trepidation.
Awesome choice, Jason! Should be fun! Can't wait to see how you do.
I'm surprised only that you haven't run any ultras already. Yes, 100 miles of trail is freaking intimidating. But judging by your running, 50K or 50 miles wouldn't be a significant challenge. (Personally, I can't even imagine training for something like this.) I'm familiar with the race director and certain he'll cover all the contingencies. I think you made the right choice. Best of luck!
Cannot wait to hear how it goes!
That will be fun. Looking forward to seeing your training for this race. Good luck!
Thanks, all! @Joel yeah, the one thing I'm not worried about is the organization, I get the impression it's very good.
i have no doubt you will crush this
Way to go Jason! That should really challenge you for your first ultra.
Wow! I'm amazed by what you can do... I'm sure you have enough medals and buckles... get a kettle, why not... It looks cool and comes from Peru...
Good for you! With all the miles you do, you'll do great! I attempted my first Trail ultra 50k in the mountains on Jan 9th and had to DNF at mile 23.33 (and 7 hours!!!) when I had GI issues. I'm going for my second attempt at a 50K in 7 weeks!
@Tim: Actually, no buckles yet... no actual ultras under my belt, just my own runs...
@Christie: Actually, the trail running aspect worries me a bit. I think the biggest part of my training won't be the distance but getting used to running on trails... and running at night... Anyway, good luck with attempt #2!
nice!! that sounds like fun.... maybe?
welcome to the dark side
You will never be the same!! Running Ultra's ROCK!
Intimidated? If there was anyone made for this event it is you Jason. I like your logistical thinking too, it's why I've run Knoxville every year since I started running, proximity=win.
Good luck Jason! Hope you enjoy it!
That Kettle will look cool on the mantle. Also Mike D said it perfect.... let the addiction continue!
Jason, do you have any trails to train on? I have quite a few near my home which helps. It does take some getting used to compared to road running - but it's also kind of fun. :) Running trails at night - that could be scary - or pretty thrilling! I'm sure you'll surprise yourself how quickly you adapt to both trials and night. You'll do great, I'm sure!
cool to see my name pop up in that post :) my wife really likes the idea of me doing this event, but we still need to work out some details before i can make a full commitment. that would be awesome if you and i took on the 100-mile challenge for the first time at the same event. for my first, i intend to leave my racing hat at home, and just focus on finishing the journey :)