January 20, 2008

Why am I doing this??

Why am I running Western States 100 mile endurance run? The short answer? I've been brainwashed by the ultra running gods. The long answer? It’s a new challenge for me…and I need a challenge to stay focused…to stay motivated. I’ve run several marathons, including Boston, London, Sacramento, San Antonio, Napa, even St. George as a bandit/pacer. But the marathon experience – for me anyway – has gotten a little stale.

I run to gain fitness, to push my body, and also to gain peace in an otherwise chaotic world. Marathons certainly do this, but to keep it real, I needed something different. In 2006 me and an ultra running friend trained for and ran the Helen Klein 50 miler, a relatively flat race along the American River in the Sacramento area. We had a great experience in what was my first official “ultra”. I liked the 50 mile race so much I did it again in 2007. This was a big motivator for me to run something longer, and Western States was waiting.

What I’m learning about running ultra’s is that eating, hydrating, taking electrolytes, and running within yourself is critical to getting to the finish line. When you are on your feet for 7 to 30 hours, you simply have to keep your body fed. And you have to train it to be fed, in not so ideal conditions. I’ve never run 100 miles before, but I’m looking forward to the challenge – both physical and mental.

Here goes!

7 comments:

rathbnz said...

Dude, your nuts! But, I commend your goal and the need for further challenges in life. All I can say is.... Go Smokeeeey!!

Unknown said...

I will be at the finish line in June with a cold one!

Will Cooper said...

Thanks family Booth. I look forward to seeing you at the finish line in Auburn...with a cold one.

Greg said...

I think you will do great! Let me know if I can help, bro.

Unknown said...

Nice pictures of food & NH Bridge! I look forward to running training camp in May. Keep up the inspirational stories. Boy, do I need them!
Laura

Anonymous said...

Congrats on a great run at Leona. Your blister looks gnarley! Luckily you didn't feel it. I bet you are feeling it today!
Laura

smartwool socks said...

Nice post! I look forward to read more posts from you. God Bless!