2013 Vancouver 100

1 June 2013 - Starter Photo in Deep Cove

2013 Vancouver 100 Run Report

I’m glad to say that the 2013 Vancouver 100 was a unique experience for me and that it seems as though all the runners and supporters had their own positive and unique experiences too. A little history: in 1999 I ran my first marathon (Vancouver) and first ultra (Knee Knacker) and in 2002 I attempted my first double crossing of the Baden Powell Centennial Trail along with my running friend Deb Schmidt pacing me for the first 50 km from Deep Cove to Horseshoe Bay. We started at 6:00 p.m. that day and made it to the start of the Knee Knacker race at 6:00 a.m. with minutes to spare. I bonked 45 minutes after that Knee Knacker start and after help from the race sweeps I eventually got a ride home from Tim Jones (North Shore Rescue) upon his insistence – thanks again Tim. In 2005 we held the first 96 km “The Double” and since 2006 it’s been called the 100 km “Vancouver 100”. From the first running of The Double I have been told by numerous and widely experienced ultra-runners that our mountainous course is one of the most difficult of the big trail runs in North America. I’ve done some statistical checking of my own to support that claim and it’s easy to agree. So far I’ve only found one event that even comes close and that’s the 100 km version of H.U.R.T. 100 in Hawaii (not really even North America). All others at the 100 km distance apparently pale in comparison.

Thankfully I’ve completed the V100 a few times before and I promised myself this time would be for a new experience. I decided that going for the triple (V150) would be the difference, especially since there was no known record of that being done. And I figured that if I actually made the triple there wasn’t much anyone could do to stop me from making that final 10 km or so journey to make it a full 160km (100 miles). It was a lofty but worthy goal for me since I had not yet completed a run of that distance. The plan gradually came together and I heard from Deb that she was interested in pacing me again so at least on paper we were good to go.

(Photo of Craig flagging by Andrew Wong)

On Friday, May 31, we set out from Nelson Canyon at 3:00 p.m. to be sure to finish the first 50 km before the proper event start at 5:00 a.m. Saturday morning. The weather was perfect, mostly clear and cool enough, with seasonal temps around 18C. I had spent several outings on the entire course determining conditions and adding some marking on the toughest spots to be sure we didn’t waste any time. Lots of blow downs were cleared on the Hollyburn Chute in the preceding weeks by me and some of our Knee Knacker friends due to some very severe winds this Spring. I counted 60 trees down on the Chute alone but that was the worst hit area.

Our run on Friday night and Saturday morning was essentially uneventful. The pace was as expected, 5:07 for 25 km to Cleveland Dam then 6.5 hours to Deep Cove through the night: my 100 mile pace I imagined. That was about 8,300 feet up and 8,000 feet down so far. I was Tweeting along the way @lostinthetrees to #Vancouver100 and was not expecting nor did we plan for any assistance. We heard the coolest owl hooting on Grouse Mountain but didn’t see any wildlife of note. Snow at the higher elevations was continuing to melt quickly and lots of bare ground was showing on Black and Hollyburn Mountains, even compared to the week before. The trail was very quiet, especially in Deep Cove from Quarry Rock to the Cove. In fact, it was absolutely deserted of the hundreds of people we normally see there if you can imagine. Mind you that was smack dab in the middle of the night. The only significant stop we made was at Cleveland Dam to refill on water and at Mountain Highway for an impromptu Kraft Dinner meal provided by my generous neighbours (Brendan, Roz, Misha and Robbie) who came up from our home in Lynn Valley.

Deb and I have probably each run sections of the BP Trail between Grouse and Deep Cove hundreds of times over the years. My first Knee Knacker was in 1999 – Year of the Snow. Deb lives in North Vancouver so it’s home ground to her as well. All of this made it an easy trek to the Cove by my estimated call of 2:30 a.m. In fact I arrived at the fire hydrant after running down the road to the black gate and back at exactly 2:30. Eleven and half hours for 50 km. Not fast. Not intended to be fast. Right on time in my books. I ate, drank, sat for a few minutes, Tweeted, sorted out lights and food and was heading back down the road by 3:08 a.m. Deb headed home and insisted I call her if there were any issues. The advance plan was to have fellow Team Dodgy cohort, Dave Berg with the help of his incredible crew of wife Helen, do the event briefing at 5:00 a.m. for the V100 starters. That all worked out and I knew that the first runner would be catching up to me around Lynn Canyon.

It got significantly light around 5:00 a.m. and that’s about the time I took my headlamp off. The Seymour Grind is very peaceful normally but was extra quiet at that time of day. I was very much enjoying my time on the trail. Not long after, I entered Lynn Canyon and sat down on a bench for a short break to refuel. I thought that Sammy the superhuman ultra-runner might be passing me soon and at 6:22 a.m., barely 30 seconds after I sat down, he appeared down the trail. We chatted and off he went flying up the long set of stairs toward the Suspension Bridge. It would be another 40 minutes before the next runner would find me. It was Dave Berg looking good at Lynn Headwaters just past the Varley Trail immediately followed by two more. I wish I had their speed. Of course part of my unique experience plan was to be out there to see the runners as they caught me.

More and more runners eventually passed me as I closed in on Grouse Mountain some who I was only meeting for the first time. But I was wondering where my favourite Team Dodgy running buddies were. Neil managed to pass me first but Carolyn K., Marla, and Chad were still to be seen. Maybe they got caught in the Timbits vortex provided by crew and Diez Vista Race Director extraordinaire Wendy Montgomery at Skyline. I was stuck in there for a couple of minutes myself. And I’m sure Carolyn was interested in taking her time since she and Neil had completed the 55 mile Cateran Race in Scotland the weekend prior. On that note, Karl Jensen had also done a big one that weekend: the 100 mile Pigtails Challenge in Renton, Washington. And I have no doubt that everyone else had put in some big training runs leading up to the V100 not the least of which was Sammy’s fantastic 19^th place finish at the Vancouver Marathon in May.

Right from the start of my run I was concerned about my feet. They’ve never given me too much trouble but I decided to try some new runners this year. They worked out okay in training a few times but I hadn’t tried them for any considerable distance yet. I taped my feet in anticipation of problems and I’m glad I did. The pain on my toes and bottom of my feet had become quite severe and I was in the process of making my mind up to not continue past Cleveland Dam. With sore quads and knees my day would end at 75 km (18:51:00) and one more lesson learned the hard way. The best part is that I got my unique V100 experience and had a fantastic first 50 km. Love the night. Love the mud. But perhaps it was the excess amount of water on the trail that was part of the feet problem I had. It was a wet one as usual at this time of year. I was able to see my group come through Cleveland Dam and Helen gave me a ride home eventually. Then sleep.

Eventually I heard that Sammy knocked it out of the park once again: a new course record in 14:06. How does he do it? At the post dinner he mentioned that this year he didn’t get lost and didn’t doddle at all. I’ve tried that before and it didn’t work for me quite as well. Hmmm. First timers Spencer and Chris were steady and strong, finishing slightly ahead of another first timer, minimalist Eric, who came in with repeat offenders Jackie and Ken who all appear to have completed unscathed. Spencer told me that the last few miles were a massive effort for him to break 20 hours and it worked. He thanked me, “for a great if not painful event.” My pleasure Chris. Sam’s support crew person Miyuki was glad to hear from me when I called her in the morning trying to track Sam down. She said he got lost repeatedly but was determined to finish. For Sam to make it through on his own with that much difficulty earns him the ‘extra tough’ award for this year. It’s hard enough to finish when you know the route well let alone wander off many times. (Hey I warned you all about that didn’t I?) And last but not least, if everyone could have performed as well as second time finisher Kyndra then we would all have something to be proud of. Kyndra knocked 4 hours off her 2012 time and did so without a really ugly blood blister on her foot this time. Kyndra had some fantastic pacers as well. Thanks to all who helped keep our runners safe and sound out there and a shout out to Claire and Danielle for tagging along to see what it was all about and post some Tweets too.

(photo at right is Kyndra finishing with a 100 km personal best)

Close finishers were Dave and John. Dave blew a tire on Fromme and had to make his way out in the dark after a major stumble that caused his headlamp to disintegrate and one of his favourite blue hats to disappear. If you find his hat please secure its return or wear it proudly. John was a steady competitor as always but once again skipped the big climb back up Black Mountain. He’s amazing. He’s chatty. We’re lucky to have John among us and still going strong. John said, “that’s one of the best night runs I’ve ever had.” Considering all the big runs he’s done, including several 100 milers, that’s saying something. Take note that John’s wife and crew, Linda, gets the award for grossest injury during the V100: she fell at her home driveway to split her chin open and got five stitches. Ouch. I heard lots of blood was involved. Crewing comes with a price apparently.

Women’s course record holder Carolyn G. spent a relaxing day with Shem, both completing 75km as planned. Thanks to both for joining us in the fun once again. Neil found that after a kind act of avoiding a lady on the trail and whacking his knee he was not able to properly mount a return trip from Nelson Canyon. His whole group decided wisely to stop after 50km and head back to Maple Ridge after a meal and a rest. Michael, Sean and Karl all came up short but for smart reasons I’m sure. The V100 course continues to shatter hopes and dreams and keep it real year after year. Michael said he needed to walk the last 5 km after re-injuring his hip on Hollyburn Chute but he wants to give it a go again. Sean felt he didn’t have it in him this year. Karl, being one of Canada’s most prolific ultra-runners, gets a bye on this one. Thanks for being out there with us and passing on your experience and vast knowledge as always.

The post event dinner on Sunday was held at Two Lions Public House in North Vancouver - thanks to host Kendra and the new owners for having us and providing some complimentary beer to the thirsty travelers. Many showed up to share their stories and give plans of future adventures. I promised all that I would be holding a tenth V100 in 2014 and that they didn’t have a choice this time. But I was asking the group about their preferred V100 start time and was curious about the starting point for next year. Personally I think starting in Nelson Canyon would be an interesting alternative but that was met with a round of harrumphs. However it seems the start time is open for adjustment. Maybe 6:00 a.m.?

I also advised one and all at the dinner that there would certainly be one significant change. After living quite comfortably in Lynn Valley for almost all of my 51 happy years I’ve made the decision to move to Kamloops. I start work there on June 24 and will be very happy to be sharing the next phase of my life with Lynette. Some of you have met her and I hope you all get to meet her soon. I’ll be down and around the North Shore of Vancouver off and on. I’m addicted to our trails and there’s lots of Bagging still to be done. Please be sure to look me up in Kamloops when you’re spending time there or passing through. My time with Club Fat Ass and all the new friends I've made with trail running has been some of the very best times of my life. Thanks to all those I've met for helping me make it great. And a very special thanks to Ean and Sibylle for creating the club and keeping it going strong.

For all those who continue to ask us why we do this, it was summed up succinctly by one of the support runners and first timer on the BP Trail as well as a 50 km finisher. Candy said, “I don’t want or like easy.” Yup, that sums it up for me.

Thanks again to all that participated and good luck with training for the next big and unique thing in your lives.

Craig Moore

Event Host, Club Fat Ass Vancouver 100                                                                              

(photo at right are the unclaimed finisher crests and the sign-in sheet)

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Photos should be uploaded to Flickr, added to the CFA Flickr group and tagged with Vancouver1002013 Vancouver100 ClubFatAssEvents ClubFatAssEvents2013.  All photos tagged properly and added to the CFA Flickr pool will automatically appear in the slideshow posted here after the event.   

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Results:

At Eagle Bluffs Friday afternoon May 31 (Craig Moore and Deb Schmidt - pacer). Getting a head start on things after starting in Nelson Canyon at 3:09 pm. As always, a beautiful view when the clouds are away. Deb made it to Deep Cove as planned and Craig stopped after 75 km at Cleveland Dam.

The 2013 finisher's crest. Well earned for those few that made it 100 km. 

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2012 Vancouver 100

2 June 2012 - Starter Photo in Deep Cove

Event Report: coming soon

Photos should be uploaded to Flickr, added to the CFA Flickr group and tagged with Vancouver1002012 Vancouver100 ClubFatAssEvents ClubFatAssEvents2012.  All photos tagged properly and added to the CFA Flickr pool will automatically appear in the slideshow posted here after the event.   

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There will be several pacers and crew tweeting runners locations and conditions.  Please join the conversation, Twitter hashtag #Van100

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All Time Records and Statistics

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2011 Vancouver 100

4 June 2011 - Starter Photo in Deep Cove

2011 Vancouver 100 Event Report 

"I've done lots of 100 milers and for some reason this course really tears you up ... it's harder than most 100 milers." Randy Hunter, echoed by Rob MacDonald, 2005 Vancouver 100 finishers and experienced ultra trail runners.

“Ran the Vancouver 100 half … toughest 50km course in North America.” Tweeted by Chase Mueller from Seattle.

“Finished #Vancouver100 in 23:54. Ran most of it with @high_camp. Thanks bro, for a long amazing day. I’m going back to bed for a week!” Tweeted by Sean Lavin, first- timer.

The seventh running of the Vancouver 100 is now complete. (Thanks to John Machray for pointing out it was number 7 and not 6 as I said in my post run stupor at the after party.) This one was as epic as all the others and no less difficult. In fact it may have been the most challenging yet with more snow than ever before, more sunshine to distract us with magnificent scenery and views, and a superb field of ultra-athletes to challenge us.

“From either side, and for any reason, getting to the top of Black Mountain is a very good thing.” Vancouver 100 Event Host, Craig Moore.

Photos should be uploaded to Flickr, added to the CFA Flickr group and tagged with Vancouver1002011 Vancouver100 ClubFatAssEvents ClubFatAssEvents2011.  All photos tagged properly and added to the CFA Flickr pool will automatically appear in the slideshow posted here after the event. 
 

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Results:  Please let us if there are mistakes or missing times/distances.

Like last year, we'll encourage participants, crew and spectators to tweet whereabouts and news about the runners. Hashtag "#Vancouver100" on Twitter.  You can also post on the CFA Facebook page and of course, as always via comments below.

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2010 - Vancouver 100

5 June 2010 - Starter Photo in Deep Cove

(standing) Ryan, Chad, Ken, Kirsten, Des, Jackie, Karl, Wade, Randy, Carolyn, Eileen, Laddie, Kamren, Jonathon, John, (kneeling) Bill, Mike

Elaine and Tara setting off at Nelson Creek at about 5:45 am.

Report: 

I'm rather fond of the Vancouver 100. This being the fifth year of the 100km event, plus one year as The Double 96km, it has become the new focal point for my running year. And I have the best seat in the house getting to know everyone and help them understand the event as much as possible before it starts. There were people from all over: Edmonton, Victoria, Burnaby, Maple Ridge, Vancouver and North Vancouver. And it seems to be taking on a life of it's own I must say.

A few unique things happened this year too. The weather was uniquely wonderful: cool, no rain after many rainy days, and not too hot during the afternoon. And in spite of a heavy snowfall on the tops of the local mountains in the early spring, the snow has been melting fast and furiously lately resulting in a reasonably quick course: although there was still tons of water and even a good helping of mud to be found on event day.

We also had several people in two different groups start early in the day from the western end at Nelson Canyon Park. This was a first, not to mention that Eileen completed her first 50km hike and her first contiguous crossing of the Baden Powell Trail. And, along with BP veterans Neil and Carolyn, Heather did her very first full BP traverse in preparation for the upcoming Knee Knacker. I'm sure it will be a piece of cake for her now. Did I mention that Eileen also upheld a uniquely CFA tradition? Her and her hiking buddy did a couple of loop-d-loops on Hollyburn Mountain to add a few km's here and there.

Speaking of which, as I sat at the 3/4 mark later on with Sibylle, Olivia and others, the biggest topic of discussion coming from the runners was how many people were wandering all over Black Mountain and other points west of the Dam. I'm not really surprised about that but I am sorry to hear so much time was spent on custom sections rather than on the monster course that is long enough already. If I heard right, just before the halfway mark, Ryan took himself all the way down to the very bottom of the BP Trail before figuring out he needed to go through to the Whyte Lake trail and down to the parking lot where crews were waiting. I wish I could give you extra credit for that Ryan but I'm afraid it's not an unusual situation for this event.

Speaking of which, I must say that you don't really get what you pay for. The Vancouver 100 is billed as a double crossing of the Baden Powel Trail. But what it really is, is a few minutes of road running, followed by the BP Trail that has had some major changes to it lately, then just before turning around there is a bit of really nice trail through old growth forest, then a turn around and back up that nice bit and on to the BP again for a direct trip back to Deep Cove as long as you don't get lost (again). And to top it off ya gotta run down the road in the Cove at the end and tag the fire hydrant at the parking lot. That isn't exactly a double BP but it is all that and more - and pretty darn close to 100km that way too.

And another thing: what about the bit around Lynn Headwaters? Wade, and I think Mike also, pointed out that the BP goes over the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge and down the road as opposed to over the pipeline bridge and down the Varley Trail. Okay, so the route instructions aren't exactly complete for this event but I am willing to accept either method of getting through Lynn Valley. I'm used to the Varley route but the precise BP route is a touch shorter I suppose. If you're out for the course record it matters. If you're out to fill your boots then you might like the longer value version.

It's hard to tell how much of an effect the weather had on participant turnout but it may have helped our two new course record holders burn up the course. How do you beat a mild 11C at 5:00 am, heavy cloud turning to light cloud through the day, no rain, all turning to perfectly average temperatures during the day of about 17c with quite easy to find sunshine? I'm sure all the runners didn't mind a bit. Of course it gave the out-of -towners more reason to glow about the course and the day without knowing how much rain we've put up with in training the last few months since the Olympics ended.

We were also uniquely connected this year. Besides the Club Fat Ass website, we were able to use the CFA page on Facebook and use Twitter. Not that I live in the dark ages or anything but Saturday marked my first foray into Tweeting. And once Sibylle helped me out with it I couldn't be stopped. How great was that and so cool that it was showing instantly on the CFA website. Thanks to everyone for staying in touch and letting me know when you were finished.

What wasn't unique this year was the silence we experienced at the start line and the intrigue by crew members of what was yet to come. All eyes and ears were focused on the run briefing as runners began to unleash their energy in the last moments before starting. When it's 100km that is about to be taken on, the readiness level is only dampened by the early hour of the morning, but, the focus is ultra clear. And I could tell that the few crew members that were there were more than ready and willing to watch the runners take on the pain and determination of the day.

As for the run itself, it went pretty smoothly. I must thank all the crews and pacers for taking very good care of their runners. As we all know, without crew on a run of this size we have nothing. And the pacers may have gotten more than they bargained for, especially Mirabelle, as Ryan charged on through the second half testing her speed and endurance. I think Ryan said that 50km was twice the distance that Mirabelle had ever done before and yet she stuck with it as Ryan raced for a strong finish toward Deep Cove with an ever-faster pace. And, since Ryan Conroy is now the fastest finisher on the 100km course, I have declared him the course record holder. That's an amazing accomplishment for sure. As is the run put in by the new woman's course record holder, Carolyn Goluza. In fact we had two women, Jackie Muir included, that beat the previous women's record. Very nice.

It was great seeing the V100 regulars out there, Karl, John, Mike, Ean, Sibylle, Baldwin, Bill, Jess, Chad, Kirsten, Neil, David, Des, Laddie, and all the others. Thanks to all of you for supporting this event and making it special for me.

A personal thanks to my Saturday night running buddies that did the last quarter with me from Cleveland Dam to Deep Cove starting around 7:30 pm. It was a bit tough for Baldwin as he had munched his ankle earlier, but, it was easy for veteran Jess, and fun for Liza and night-newbie Kelly, and a pleasure for me finally getting a chance to run after being mellow and patient since getting up at 4:00 am.

So, I wonder who it will be next year? Are you ready for the hardest 100km trail run anywhere?

Craig

Photos should be uploaded to Flickr, added to the CFA Flickr group and tagged with Vancouver1002010 Vancouver100 ClubFatAssEvents ClubFatAssEvents2010.  All photos tagged properly and added to the CFA Flickr pool will automatically appear in the slideshow below:

Video:  Below is a video from the morning hours on the trail east of Mosquito Creek.

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Results: Ryan took an early and determined lead with Kamren, Des and Mike in hot pursuit. It's a picture perfect day with cool temperatures but just right for running a nice long tough one. Looking for a high finisher rate today. Chad is running with Kirsten who looks like the woman to beat today: fast, happy and seemingly fresh at their first pass through Cleveland Dam. Some runners were quiet when I saw them at the first quarter check point, and yet others were alive with joy. And as usual John Machray was setting the pace for discussion and was surrounded by four young short groupies (grandchildren) and his wife Linda at Cleveland Dam: a nice boost to John's endless energy. Neil, Carolyn and Heather started their run from Nelson Canyon at about 9:15 am. Latecomer Bagger Crerar advised he will be doing the same with an afternoon start. It's never too late in the day to get in on the Vancouver 100!  

Thanks everybody who participated in my little Twitter experiment.  The #Vancouver100 updates fed live to our website (see the feed below) were well received even by folks who had never set eyes on Twitter.... Sibylle

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2009- Year 5

6 June 2009 - Starter Photo

Report: 

Photos should be uploaded to Flickr, added to the CFA Flickr group and tagged with Vancouver1002009 Vancouver100 ClubFatAssEvents.  Photos posted so far are here.

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2008 - Year 4

Of 15 starters for the full 100 km we had 8 finish. That's the most out of 4 years. It was an incredible day on a slightly challenging course. Thanks to everyone for participating and especially the crews!

2007 - Year 3

Craig Moore 4-1/2h into the Vancouver 100

Please find results below:

2006 - Year 2

Photo: Rob MacDonald having a well deserved rest at the finish of the Vancouver 100

It was cruel and unrelenting.  “This is the hardest run I’ve ever done”, repeated several runners including one of the most experienced and the fastest runner this year, Rod Hatfull.  “Thanks very much but you’re an evil Race Director”, to paraphrase Geoff Palmer.  “This is the hardest 100 km run anywhere” according to Glenn Pacé.
 
I get the feeling runners weren’t necessarily happy with me this year but they certainly felt they had accomplished a great task whether or not they completed the full event.  Full of newbies and veterans alike, the 2006 Vancouver 100 is shaping up to be in a class of its own quite simply because of the unexpected nature of the snow in the hills and the persistently technical course that runs across five giant mountains on the North Shore of Vancouver.  And there was no shortage of excitement to fill in the gaps between gasps.
 
The day started with runners awakening to rain with their alarms around 3:00 am.  They were already unhappy campers hearing that wet sound outside but definitely past the point of no return with many being committed to the event for several months prior.  By 4:30 am we were all gathered at the start line in Deep Cove with the crews ready for what lay ahead.  I reiterated that the start would include a 2.7 km warm up on Panorama Drive to stretch the distance to 100 km and clarified the route directions for Cypress Provincial Park including Hollyburn Mountain and Black Mountain.  By the way, ya gotta like a race briefing that can skip over about 35 km of trail because the participants already know the route very well or will stick with someone that knows the route well.
 
So at about 4:34 am the runners started down the road.  I and the crews were so excited for them after all the anticipation that it seemed like forever until they made it back to the starting point (after 2 km) only to turnaround again and head for the Baden Powell trailhead.  But they did and they were already damp when we saw them with the rain drizzling down.  Thankfully the rain didn’t last long and it was only a matter of a few hours before the sun was starting to peak through the clouds.
 
Since the first part of the trail is straightforward to Hollyburn, it was a matter of going through the turns and getting settled into a good pace.  There was no clear leader and the front 8 were closely bunched.  Rod made it to the halfway point first with Bill, Dan and Tim in hot pursuit.  Everyone was running well and the custom runners had mostly finished their day by this time.  All except for Baldwin who was just getting going at Cleveland Dam, ready to chase the back of the pack.  Baldwin was close behind them going up Hollyburn Mountain and managed to make it all the way to the top of the Hollyburn ski runs before turning around. He was also well coordinated with matching wild blue shirt and gators.  At the top, Baldwin decided not to go past the turning point as It did not look pleasant.  The 100 km runners confirmed he was right.  That section has endless slippery roots and gnarly footsteps with all the rain, wear, and tear in recent years.
 
After sending all of them off at Cleveland Dam, I did some grocery shopping for the return trip burgerfest and delivered the goods to Ethelyn who kindly offered to cook it up.  Actually, before going to the Dam, I drove custom runner Chris Benn back to Deep Cove from Lynn Headwaters since he was done early due to groin pain.  Chris was supposed to be meeting up with Desmond later at Cleveland Dam.  But just to show the spirit of our runners, Chris offered to walk back to Deep Cove from Lynn Valley, with a smile.  Like, right. Chris, are you sure you didn’t mean to do the full 100?  Also, Berglind went on to do her out and back to St. Georges from the Cove and by this time, Sibylle, Michele, Pat, Faith and Claudia had started at Grouse to manage a mid trail meet up with the runners coming their way.  There was no end of opportunity for club members to join in the fun for this daylong event.
 
So while the big guns were hauling ass up the Hollyburn Chute, Ethelyn kindly cooked up burgers and macaroni to be served at Cleveland Dam for our picnic.  And eventually I headed out in a hurry to beat them to the ½ way point at Nelson Canyon Park just East of Horseshoe Bay.  Part of my rush came from a frantic short phone call from Lucy Barbeau (Gilles’ crew) about Linda Machray’s car being on fire up at Cypress Bowl.  A bystander called the police and fire and there was lots of excitement.  They drove all the way up that long road to help mom Linda with her three kids in need.  Thankfully it turned out to not be a fire but a loose hose that caused a lot of steam.  One tow truck later and a round-about ride from Ron Adams and all was taken care of.  Ron stopped at Cypress because he has Western States 100 in a couple of weeks and didn’t want to push it.  Ron and Gilles are both heading down to California for the big one on June 24.  They’ll have some good stories to share from this one.
 
Back in Nelson Canyon Park at the ½ way point, I almost made it up the new section of trail and out to the BP to do a little bit of marking before seeing the first runner come down off Black Mountain.  Rod got to me firstly, then Bill, Dan and Tim.  It felt like they were in a hurry somehow.  Was there pizza waiting for them like last year?  Like, no.  It was just that mid race focus and the end of the free-fall trip down short little Black.
 
But I did make it out to the sharp corner and hung some flagging tape for the unaware still to come.  That was also my first trip up this part of the trail.  It actually follows the Trans Canada Trail for a while and then veers off through old growth lush forest green from new ferns and thick moss.  I had a great time seeing the others come down and then have all the runners (except John and Gilles) pass me again for the trip back to Deep Cove.  Nobody was in a hurry to do the 3500’ climb to the top but they sure were focused.  I ran with Glenn and Mike for a few meters and clearly they were in the middle of a 100 km run. They were focused, determined, and ignoring the pain the best they could.  And Mike was glad his 11 pound pack was getting lighter.
 
When I got back out to the parking area at the halfway point, Lucy and Gilles’ friend Steve were patiently waiting for Gilles and John.  Lucy was knitting and Steve was preparing to join Gilles for the return trip. Earlier, I saw Cheryl and some of the other crew people biding their time.  It takes special people to hang out for a very full and long day to help their loved ones and good friends.  And we had the best crews being patient and helpful to see their runners through as far and fast as they could go.
 
I knew the runners had their work cut out for them at this point.  Having done this run before myself, the climb back up Black Mountain is the hardest section of ‘running’ around these parts.  It was the only time I remember hallucinating last year during this event and it is an incredible physical challenge after running 50 km over more than 8 hours.  And to top it off, the snow above would be softer and even more difficult in the afternoon to slug through than on the first time through.  Tim packed it in at Cypress after giving it his best shot.  A general uneasiness had overcome him along with wandering runner syndrome.  Those darn snow-covered trails were not easy to follow.
 
When I got to Cleveland Dam around 4:30 pm with Ethelyn, Ean and Sibylle were already settled in with their kids and a couple of others; I remember Rick Arikado and Desmond Mott in particular were there.  And Baldwin hung around after his run with the hot soup he had prepared.  The sun was shining and the day was glorious.  The Lions were in plain view with lots of snow still and the mostly clear blue sky and warm temperature was perfect.  I was preparing to run out with the last person and either go home in Lynn Valley or on to Deep Cove.
 
As the runners came in, they told us with their words and expressions that the third quarter was just plain hard and tiring.  They were punching through the snow on Black and slipping on the roots on Hollyburn.  Each one of them arrived with a persistent but slow pace and sat down for a major break.  Clothes were changed including Glenn’s funky toe socks.  And the extra food we prepared was appreciated but not eaten by everyone since stomachs were sensitive and at this point people didn’t want to take much of a chance.  Rod was going strong but shaking his head about the last 24 km.  Bill and Dan came next and were equally drained.  Bill sat down on the grass eventually for a break.  Dan headed over to the parking lot to see his faithful crew of mom and brother.  I got a chance to see Dan’s support box and it looked very good. I think that he was well prepared and that helped him to keep up with fast moving Bill.  Elke joined these two for the last quarter and learned what being a good pacer is all about. 
 
Rob MacDonald was having a tough time at the ¾ mark and he seemed to be not sweating enough.  But after some food and a couple of rough moments, his wife and crew, Margaret, helped him on his way. Glenn was greeted by his crew, Cheryl, and his wife, Manon, and their kids, and I think that felt like a breath of fresh air for him (not them though, whew).  I think Geoff came in at the same time and headed over to the parking lot to meet his crew of girlfriend Lisa.  Glenn and Geoff stuck together the remaining distance. 
 
Eventually Mike wandered in and also recounted his struggle on this quarter.  I learned afterward that Mike was ready to stop but I guess he saw me ready to go so he decided to keep moving after a burger and a sit down.  I decided to join Mike rather than wait for Gilles and Steve.  We had gotten a call from Lucy around the time Mike came in and the last two boys were just at Cypress Bowl.  They were doing well but it was going to be a couple more hours before they would make it to Cleveland Dam at which point they decided to call it quits anyway.  So I finally got a chance to hit the trail for some badly needed exercise.  Mike set the pace of course.  He didn’t promise to be chatty but I think a bit of conversation helped to keep him going and then to make the clear decision to finally stop at Mountain Highway.  We were able to call fiancée Melissa on the cell phone and get her and her girls to pick us up around 9:30 pm.  Mike was very satisfied with his 85km run and feels he’s lived to tell another tale in good health.
 
While Mike and I were on the trail I got a call from Rod Hatfull (15:52).  He had finished with an amazingly fast time for the second half.  I believe it is officially a negative split since it took him a full 8 hours to get half way and then less than 8 hours to go back.  And Rod said he felt great and was very strong coming into the Cove.  He sounded good and was also very happy to be done.  I’m sorry we couldn’t have been there to provide a better welcome but it was nice talking on the phone at least.  Considering the snow conditions I think he would have come close to matching Randy’s time from last year.  Rod made it home and was in bed asleep by 10:15 pm by the way.  What a fantastic run Rod, congratulations.
 
Melissa gave me a short ride down the hill to my home and I posted Rod’s time.  I finally did head out to Deep Cove around 10:30 pm to see most of the remaining runners come in.  When I got to the finish line, Bill and Dan were done.  Bill was sitting again but on hard pavement this time.  Dan was already long gone.  And by the way, Dan told me he left his identification with his mom so he didn’t have it when crossing the border back into Washington State.  The border guards then made him get out of the car and go tell his story to someone that cared.  It seems they weren’t fooled by the drawn look and beat up emotions.  He tried to explain what he was doing but they likely didn’t believe it anyway.  But Dan got through and admitted to me later that this was the hardest thing he’s ever done in his life (the run that is).  Don’t worry Dan. You’re young.  You’ll have lots of chances still to top this one.  Maybe next year on the same course?
 
When Rob MacDonald arrived (18:28) all he wanted to do was lie down.  So he did right in the middle of the parking lot.  His wife Margaret was there to bring him a pillow and blanket.  Rob was thrilled to be finished and even knocked off significant time from last year.  Rob is now only the second person to complete this wicked run twice (2005 and 2006), along with Randy Hunter (2000 and 2005).
 
I also saw Glenn and Geoff (18:59) happily saunter up to the darkened parking area with their headlamps beaming and where we sent them off a minute short of 19 hours earlier.  It was great to have both of them complete the run since Geoff had wanted to do it last year but couldn’t due to a cross-training injury.  And Glenn seemed to need this notch on his belt badly.  It’s a fine day when you can say you’ve crossed the North Shore Mountains twice.
 
It was now midnight and the day was done.  I headed back home and the only person remaining on the course was John Machray, determined as ever to do something great.  Ron Adams had been helping him from Cypress Bowl since his wife Linda’s wheels had given up.  John took a big break in the middle to avoid the big climb up Black with wise intentions.  And although he had no one to talk to anymore that didn’t stop him from yearning for the Cove.  He arrived at 12:40 am in good spirits as always.
 
After a night of mostly good sleep, we had the post-event potluck party at my place.  Dan didn’t chance another crossing of the border and rockin’ Rod stayed home to do house renovations.  But many others came to share their stories and war wounds, especially Gilles.  We all agreed that Gilles’ leg chaffing is the worst we’ve ever seen.  Man, that’s gotta hurt. Please take good care of it Gilles. 
 
Ya know, one thing I didn’t do at my post-event presentation was give out awards. So how is this:
 
Rod Hatfull
Most steady runner with strange eating habits

Bill Dagg
Most determined to finish without looking over his shoulder too many times.

Dan Probst
Dug deepest and came up strong

Rob MacDonald
Felt crappiest but couldn't stop running

Glenn Pace
Most thankful for an awesome run

Geoff Palmer
Second time lucky, yearns for new RD
 
Michael Wardas
Most satisfied self-supported runner
           
Gilles Barbeau
Best large round leg wounds

Tim Wiens
Most challenged with great potential  
     
Ron Adams
Most determined to have a shower but couldn’t   
      
John Machray
Best attitude, most talkative as always  
    
For me, this is the first time I’ve been on the other side of a big run.  Watching these guys put themselves on the line of pain and suffering for the simple act of being able to say they did it is amazing.  I also got to see the dedicated friends and close family members show their love.  Their support was beautifully unconditional and it was ultra-clear this event was something the runners had to do for themselves.  Thanks to everyone for making it a great day.
 
Craig Moore

Some Photos are posted here (more to come)

100km
Rod Hatfull     15:52:00        - 2 points
Bill Dagg      17:48:00           - 2 points
Dan Probst  17:48:00           - 2 points
Rob MacDonald  18:28:00      - 2 points
Glenn Pace     18:59:00         - 2 points
Geoff Palmer   18:59:00        - 2 points

Custom:
John Machray     87 km - drove from 1/2 way back to Cypress Bowl then ran back to Deep Cove      - 2 points
Michael Wardas   85 km to Mtn Hwy  17:10      - 2 points
Gilles Barbeau     76 km to Cleveland Dam        - 2 points
Tim Wiens   67 km   stopped at Cypress Bowl   - 2 points
Ron Adams  42 km  stopped at Cypress Bowl   - 2 points
Steven Lee   24 km Horseshoe Bay to Cleveland Dam with Gilles      - 2 points
Elke Bauer 25km Cleveland Dam to Deep Cove with Bill and Dan    - 1 point
Desmond Mott   Deep Cove to Cleveland Dam then home             - 2 points
Chris Benn  12.5 km  stopped at Lynn Headwaters Pipeline Bridge   - 2 points
Berglind Hafsteinsdottir   40km St. Georges return to Deep Cove 6:01:48 - 2 points
Baldwin Lee   Cleveland Dam to top of Hollyburn ski runs return        - 3 points
Pat Barry    Grouse to Mosquito Creek return 2:30                           - 2 points
Michele Sherstan     Grouse to Mosquito Creek return 2:30                 - 2 points
Claudia Bullington    Grouse to Mosquito Creek return 2:30                - 2 points
Sibylle Tinsel    Grouse to Mckay Creek return 1:25                          - 3 points
Faith Wells    Grouse to Mckay Creek return 1:25                            - 2 points
Craig Moore   1:45 Cleveland Dam to Mtn Hwy with Mike Wardas      - 3 points

Crew
Maureen Wiens - 3 points
Cheryl Johnson - 3 points
Manon Pace - 3 points
Lucinda Barbeau - 3 points
Dan's Mom - 3 points
Margaret MacDonald - 3 points
Linda Machray - 3 point
Cathy Adams - 1 point
Dan's brother - 1 point
Baldwin Lee -  see above
Sibylle Tinsel - see above
Ethelyn David -  burger/macaroni cooker! 1 point
Ean Jackson - 1 point

Photo: A peaceful view from Cleveland Dam (km 76) west towards the Lions, just before the last participants, Gilles Barbeau and Steven Lee, arrived at the aidstation. Looks can be deceiving...there was snow in those mountains!

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2005 - Year 1