Ean Jackson's blog

Sunday 2 August 2009... a date that will go down in the record books for my buddy Rick and me.

It started innocently enough.  With just under a week to go before the STORMY ultras, we thought we'd get in a final shakedown run and bag a peak or two for credit in the 2009 Bagger Challenge.

Last night, I was inspired by stories of barfing runners.

Ultra #97 now complete:  

http://www.clubfatass.com/blog/ean-jackson/closing-in-on-100-ultramarathons

and I lived to tell the tale.  Will my calf come unglued for the 17th time before I complete #98?

The KneeKnacker (KKNSTR) is tomorrow.  It's a 50K (OK, OK, Enzo, it's 30-miles...)

For my buddy Steve, this is his first ultra.  With 15 hours to go before the start, Steve is suffering from gastrointestinal distress.  He's all stressed out about what to pack.

So what should he pack?

I was out for a run on the Baden Powell Trail with a pal the other day.  This friend was a bit nervous about competing in his first Knee Knacker 50K.  We got chatting about hints and tips.  In case you are also looking at doing your first ultra, I thought I'd share some of those thoughts here.  If you've done a few long running races, please share your thoughts on my hints and add a few of your own:

1. It's warm and sunny
2. You can wear your Hawaii shirt instead of 3 layers and a Goretex jacket
3. You can wear your shades instead of goggles
4. You can ski right on to the lift
5. Everyone who is sliding is in a good mood
6. The bumps explode if you hit them right
7. You've got enough days in your legs that you don't have to stop and catch your breath
8. You can point your skis straight down without having to write a will
9. Mashed potatoes are actually fun to ski if you go fast enough

Today, while out running, I found a YakTrak.  Did you lose one, by chance?

Last week I found one, too.  (Dho!  Different make and different size.)  A few weeks before that, Colin found one, as well!  How can you lose one of these and not notice?

Outdoor Safety

Living in the shadow of the mountains, I try to take full advantage of the amazing opportunities the backcountry offers. Trail running is up there at the top of the list.  I also love alpine activities such as snowshoe running, snowboarding, backcountry and downhill skiing. 

Last year was one of false starts and injuries.  As I write these resolutions, I am rolling and icing a left foot that is messed up with plantar fasciitis and a bit miffed I won't be able to run 50K on New Years Day.  Ah, but the glass is half-full...

2009 is going to be a year of getting back on the program, lots of fun runs with old pals and new, and because I didn't do it in 2008, the year I complete my 100th ultramarathon run (currently at 96).  Here are the specifics: