Cayuga Trails 50 Miler 2014---Last Man Standing

I want to begin by saying that this will not be your ordinary race recap post. This will be a discussion about how far the sport has come, the building interest in the East, and the potential for the sport in the future.

All the race gear!!!!!!

What will be discussed will be my vision that the Cayuga Trails 50 help to validate. And of course along the way I will recap how the race transpired because this year it was unlike any ultra that I have been apart of.  Here we Go.


My personal story begins 4 weeks prior when I twisted my ankle on a training run on a Thursday. It was nothing special just a stupid mistake as I approached the entrance to some trails. The ankle continued to get worse and for the Tom B trail run, I was a little on the weak-side with the ankle so I knew that I had to be cautious. I used the race as a training run and succeeded running 3 sub hour laps until the final lap. I hit a root and with already a marathon in my legs, I faltered and twisted the chocolate sauce out of the thing. I then continued to walk and kinda jog the last 8 miles. I finished in 4:15 crawling at sub 10 minute pace.

The next week was taken entirely off in hopes to heal my really severe medial ankle sprain which is about 5% of all ankle sprains and I am a pronator which means that I favor that side of my ankle. Luckily I had trained some big volume days leading up to the event and by 3 weeks time, would be feeling the gains. By the week of the race, I was back to running my 10-13 mile runs around the same pace I normally would without too much struggle.

I came into race weekend confident I could place well but knowing I had to run more conservative than I would like to because of my weakened ankle where I felt one false slip and I would have done permanent damage that would sideline my running for months on end.

7:46:02!!! 7th Place

Ian Golden has done such a great job with the Cayuga trails and I have been lucky enough to have him for a boss at the Finger Lakes Running Company. It is always great to see all the praise that everyone has given Ian, the volunteers and race management, sponsors for the race. This year had some amazing competition  and I was excited to finally have my name in the mix. I knew that I was not at full 100% but was still expecting a strong race with the solid training I have been able to put together.

The race had so many top prospects: Matt Flaherty--50 mile road champ extrodinare and a speedy guy to boot, not to forget mentioning the most legendary mustache in ultra running history, Chris Vargo---part of the Nike Trail Team and a guy that has run ridiculous times out West in Cali and Colorado, surprise Tristin Williams---- who smacked me at USA Mountain Running last year, Yassine, who is a 100 Mile specialist and Western States top 10 finisher, Ben Nephew the East Coast FTK specialist of the Catskills who is arguably the fastest runner on some of the ickiest terrain, Brian Rusecki who now runs for Patagonia and has run crazy times at Vermont 50, races in Virginia, a solid performer, Jordan McDougal---North Face Bear Mountain Multiple winner and super fast and top three last year, Zach Ornelas a fast mountain runner and young stud running his first 50miler which he could do some damage and SO MANY MORE!

As you can see the race was stacked. A top 10 finish would be lovely and a top 5 or 3 would be ideal.

To put into perspective, this course is one level more runnable than Virgil Crest or any crazy Catskill trail race, but has its fair share of elevation changes, creek crossings, roots, rocks, and crazy steps that make you feel like you are running the Great Wall of China Marathon!  This course had near 12k of vertical gain with the new Red Pine Trail which I have run and has a steep uphill section and the dreaded Lucifer Steps which has an amazing view but makes me feel like I am Lara Croft running away from some stone gargoyles or something of the sort. And I digress…

Back to the story… So I arrive with my father at the race, check in, say HI to Joe Viger, Ryan Welts, Amy Rusecki,  Kristina Folcik, and many others. It was a cool morning and I could feel the pre-race jitters. I hit up the bathroom as usual and hung around nice and relaxed ready to run 50 grueling miles. I had a Clif Bar for breakfast and some pre-race Honey Stinger Cherry Cola Energy Chews, yum. I had all my Mammut gear ready with my MTR 201 Pro Lows in the new icicle blue and my blue and green gear. I had my new Coolmax Fits Socks that are blended with Merino (SOOOO AMAZING) EVERYONE MUST BUY THIS FALL, and my Acidotic Racing Visor and little logo on my shirt!  With 10 minutes I lined-up with the top crew and was ready to roll. Never before have I felt like people know WHO I AM. I had people I have never met before wishing me luck, who have read my blog and have talked about my recent accolades. It feels surreal because I do not approach myself like a celebrity but for anyone that has supported me and looks up to me THANK YOU! Your support and admiration is a breath of fresh air. I have  been blessed to have such wonderful support and anyone that considers themselves a fan of myself Thank you. I will state here that IF I Ever Were to become famous, I will always remain humble and respectful of everyone that is awesome and cares about me. My goal in all of this is to inspire people that hard work pays off. That your dreams can become a reality if you wake up each and every day ready to fight for them. I spent my life being told I was never good enough for anything and here I am today. I am still on the cusp of big success but I attribute what I have achieved to believing and having people that have believed in me has given me the strength to keep on when I felt like calling it quits. Thank you again.



Once the rams horn went off we were out.

I settled into the pack of top guys. We are like 15 deep as I can feel the excitement of a USA 50 mile trail championship. I know that many of the guys upfront will lose pace so remaining consistent would be the goal. I decided to remain mid-pack as I had no idea how the ankle would hold and the pace was hot from the get-go so I wanted to remain smart. I also knew that the weather would heat up later in the day so running a smart and consistent race would pay dividends in the later stages. I settled along with Ben Nephew, Yassine, and some other fast dudes as we meandered around the gorges. I began to run the uphills with ease so I knew all my vertical was paying off leading up to the race. With my ankle, I strained on the downhills but that was to be expected. The course was of course gorgeous and more importantly was the first race in a long time for the East Coast to bring this deep of competition to an ultra marathon. I have never run 12 miles into a race and still have a pack of guys to run with. I enjoyed the day with the race and up the steep Lick Brook Climb gained some ground on Yassine and company. At this point, it was the large main pack that I had to catch but the race was still early and I wanted to take it easy to ensure a stronger second half. Once we left Buttermilk and then headed on the fields that connect into the last section of the Gorge Trail, Yassine caught me. I was having the beginnings of fatigue and could feel myself losing pace 4 miles before this photo op.

Photo Credits to Ron Heerkins Jr.

We ran together for numerous miles as Yassine would crush the downhills and I would catch back up on the Uphill sections. It was fun to be back running with him again. I was following my gel and liquid nutrition plan getting ginger ale and water at the stations, downing at least a gel ever 45 mins and consuming 20 oz every aid station. I felt good.  Then Ben Nephew caught up to us a few miles from the turn around and we hit the Lucifier's Steps and I could not climb with them. My legs felt real tight from stressing the downhill sections and holding my body back and the heat of the day was starting to deplete my body quicker than what I could take down. I was beginning to become severely dehydrated.  I lost my edge and then the separation began. Once I lost ground on Yassine and Ben, I knew that I had to be smart. My ankle began throbbing and I had the thoughts of dropping. I hit a low point only 3 miles from the 25 mile turn-around. I walked up some of the hills and felt like I was trotting. I remember seeing all the top guys maybe a mile ahead of me and knew that if I could make due and improve my pace something could come of this but I felt exhausted. 

Ron Heerkins Jr with another solid photo! 

Loop 1 coming back to the Gorge Trail

As I came to the turn-around I saw that Jordan McDougal had dropped out and I talked to him about how he felt. He mentioned to me that the top guys were looking strained and that if I held it together, I could get into some of the carnage. I too was struggling now from the heat and beginning to feel its effects but I thought if I was in 8th now, I could pick up some spots and if guys are to drop then I would have a chance. I came out of the aid station like  person reborn. I won the coveted CLIMBER's JERSEY for the fastest section from the turn-around to the next aid station which has some solid climbs and Lucifer Step's again. I was still climbing like a champ and went for it. Once I got back into nearing Lick Brook, a Salomon Runner was with me now. It was hard to fight with this guy as physically by mile 30+, I felt hot!  I would be able to cool myself off at the creek crossings and aid stations, but truly, all the water and GU Brew that I could take down just was not enough to get myself back to feeling comfortable. I was able to pass him near entering the downhill to Buttermilk Falls. I came down to the Falls, and Ian mentioned that I looked like I had stopped sweating. I was cold and clammy and had no visible sweat on me. That was bad. No wonder I felt like I was roasting on this 80 degree day.

I cooled off and kept powering through. The race from this point with 13 miles to go was not good for me at all. I managed my body from going from Heat Exhaustion to Heat Stroke the last 13 by cooling myself off but I felt dizzy, cold, tired, my legs were cramped, I had a headache. It was not comfortable. Myself and Kristina Folcik-Welts experienced much of the same issues as did many of the competitors. Each aid station, I was told runners were dropping like flies and I kept hearing places opening up for myself as people were moving up slots because of the drops. 

With the vertical and the toughness of the course, I dug deep and pushed through. Once I hit the last two aid stations with 7 miles to go, my body was spent. I was walking more of the hills now if not all of them and of course could hardly even run the uphills. I just wanted to be done. 

What ultras teach you is to dig deep even when you are having a crappy day, because you never know what the day can bring. For Cayuga, I felt like my race was not good at all but was not terrible. I have trained hard since November and Snowshoe Running Season has given me a new level of fitness that I am very happy about. If my ankle was at 100%, I feel my performance would have been much different but that is what racing is all about: seeing what you have on the day.

I held things together and finished 7:46 which was much quicker than my 8 hour time last year on a harder course with both ankle issues again. 7th in a much deeper field from 9th I will take it as I struggled but the story of the day was to just hang on and hope the heat would not kill you. I was pleased with a solid day of hurt and struggling but it taught me to hang tough and good things can happen.  My summers I like to train hard to prepare for a fast fall. This Fall, I would like to run more of the Road Ultras as my Can-Lake 50 race was no fluke and I love that I have a real knack for the roads. I also thing as my ankle continues to heal and strengthen, running on the roads might not be a bad idea. Luckily in Cortland, I have plenty of tough ascents on road and gravel seasonal roads so I can achieve a lot of solid vertical up and down without stepping on the rocky and rooty trails.

1st place--Chris Vargo! Climbed well all day and hung tough

3rd Place--Matt Flaherty who had a tough day and hung in there.

I DID IT!!! SO HAPPY TO BE DONE!

Going for the Climber's Jersey

So what was learned from this race: *With a Cold Winter, Heat acclimatization was crucial for success.

* Do not give up

* Take in more calories and gels

* Strengthen the ankle since it is weak

*Keep Training Smart

*Reach for the Stars

The amount of interest in Trail Running and Ultra Marathoning has exploded in the East! This is a very exciting time as more and more top athletes are coming from the East rather than Colorado and the West. There are more and more races featuring prize money and I was amazed with how solid the competition was this year. I cannot even wait for JFK! I feel that my running is coming around and I look forward to getting myself out there more to market the companies that keep me going. I have an awesome bunch of sponsors and they deserve more media time and I hope I can get them there. More and more athletes are being sponsored which is great in the sport of trail and ultra running and people are really taking a liking to the sport. I am very pleased with the excitement that is being generated from the sport and cannot wait for Cayuga Trails 2015! We all learned from a tough day but it was a great day!  

Ready to Climb Buttermilk Falls

Thank you to my family, friends, people that want to support me, my sponsors: Mammut North America, Fits Socks for the most amazing new Cool-max socks, Acidotic Racing, Redfeather Snowshoes, Karhu/Craft and Confluence Running for the support. Thank you Ron Heerkins JR for the photos and Matt Gawors for the photos too. Thank you everyone and have a wonderful summer!

Gear Used: 

Mammut MTR 71 Shirt (Green)

Mammut MTR 201 Pro Low in Icicle Blue!

Mammut MTR 71 Run Shorts in BLue

Acidotic Racing Emblem and Visor

Fits Socks Brand New Cool Max socks in Green!!!!'

Ultimate Direction 20 oz handheld and Essential Belt

Lots of Gels (GU) (12 gels)

Lots of Fluids (11-13 20 oz)

Zensah Calf Sleeves

Next up is Manitous Revenge which is a crazy Catskill mountain race. I look forward to having fun and testing myself. Have a great summer and see everyone next year! 

http://www.manitousrevengeultra.com

This race is BURLY and not being much of a mountaineer, I have no idea how my climbing skills will be but at least it will be a fun experience and I can say I summited a bunch of high peaks in the Catskills.

Today's Greek Peak Training run for Manitous'

Cayuga Trails Preview: Lead-up to an Epic Race

Training has been coming along since Tom B. I unfortunately sprained my ankle severely on the Medial-side of my foot which is a 5% occurrence out of all ankle injuries and I have felt it. I took about a week off from running last week which after a 90+ mile week, that was a smart idea. I feel well-rested and have begun to gain my running legs again. Tom B was a solid  test where I was able to maintain a comfortable 7:20 pace for the three laps then become sidelined with the ankle sprain on lap four. I have been doing exercises from H.E.M. some PT video series that helps strengthen the ankle and allow for it to heal.

I have been back to running 10.5-12 miles a day at a solid training pace with hills and the ankle feels calm on uneven terrain. I will be doing everything possible not to further damage the ankle such as ankle brace, KT tape, ice and heat therapy; you name it as my goal is to run free and effortless for Cayuga and avoid what happened to me last year.

A person "Must Love Jogs" did a solid race preview of Cayuga found here http://mustlovejogs.com. I am given the 15:1 odds which means that out of 15 people or 15 times results are polled, I win once.  I think those odds are fair considering last year Cayuga was one of my worst races hobbling on a bum ankle for 32 miles. My race splits from last year show it. Going from 7:30 to 8 to upper 9's and 10's show that I slowed down but it was due to physical limitations. I am hoping I can tabulate a Can-Lake 50 type performance.  The weather forecast looks solid and I am primed to perform and run a fast time. My time predictor is around 7 hours which I think is a solid estimate. I feel strong, have my climbing legs, and am ready to run a smart well-paced race. Now that the course is no mystery, I will run relaxed the first 25 and then move hard by 50k. You never know how race-day will play out but regardless, I am very much excited.

NYC

CORTLAND, NY

Forks XV Road Race: A Truly Great Day!

So I am back from the Forks XV, a local road race near Binghamton, NY and it was truly a great day. Talking with many of the runners today, it seemed everyone gave better performances than expected, myself included.

The weather was far from spectacular with the temps hovering near the low 30's and a significant wind chill.


It was truly great to see everyone from Triple Cities, Binghamton, and Confluence Running at the race and it really gave a fun and relaxing atmosphere. This race was serving as a "rust buster" for myself as I have not really run many road races in a long while.  I was hoping for a 51 minute time.

My plan all along for the race was to run smart and consistent. I think that I achieved that goal. With the game-plan of averaging 5:20-5:30 miles, I steadily began to prepare myself for the race. It was wonderful to have Ashlee with my to enjoy the event and she even got me a Twitter and Instagram which is awesome. I warmed up with the guys and got settled into the race plan. Hanging out in the Chenango Forks High School was great since it was pretty cold and windy out there. It reminded me of many races and training runs that I endured in Norman, Oklahoma. After the warm-up and some slight shedding of layers, it was time for the Big Show!

Here is a link to the race article: http://www.pressconnects.com/article/20140330/SPORTS/303300035/Cole-Crosby-Samantha-Snead-win-Forks-XV-road-race-titles





Race Time::::::

I jogged off to the start with the wind whipping around us. I had never run this race before and had been told about the course and its gentle rollers not to mention a tough hill by mile 8. As we started off, I had a great time hanging out and chatting with Dan Young and Steve Marcin.  Steve took out the pace and I sat behind him for the first 1200 meters and then decided to pace with him. We crested the first little hill with a mile split around 5:18. I mentioned to him that was a great pace.  We agreed to hang together until one of us could not hold the pace.  I was excited to run such a smooth pace.  We then headed out of the school and onto the main road.  We continued to chat and to make the run fun. It was cold and a little windy so having fun with it could help us both pass the time before the later stages of the run.  We hit another 5:20 mile at mile 2 and a 5k time that had about a 5:21 average mile. We were running great.  Then at the first downhill that was significant, I made a slight move on the down which I love to do and created a short gap. The lead bike mentioned to me it was about 100 yards or so.  I always thought Steve could merge back with me as I kept up the sub 5:20 pace.  With the rolling hills, I bounded up them no problem. I had really no fatigue generated from the run so far which was amazing. I had spring in my step and I was running really strong. I have not felt this great in a long time. I continued to cruise still averaging 5:15-5:20 based on the terrain. I think I picked up the mile split from 5-6 and then hit a river road section which was a gradual uphill mile. Coming into mile 7, I was still feeling strong though I was not as springy as the first 5 miles or so but I really was not struggling.  Sure, the wind was at this point really making pushing the pace a little hard, but I fought through it as best as I could.

Mile 8---The big hill!!!!! It was fun to have so many people cheering along the course and at the base of the hill, as well as the lead bike who mentioned to me that he was going to try and get ahead with the hill. I hit the first section of the hill, I ran relaxed up it and then hit the crest hard.  Once I managed the top of the hill, there was another little section to go. I asked the lead bike if this was the last hill and he mentioned that it was. YES!!!! Almost there.  Once I finished the last roller, it was a downhill finish. I then began to cruise in. I still had plenty of strength in the legs and powered home. Once I entered the loop around the parking lot of the school, I was counting down until I was done. I also looked at my watch at this point to see that I could finish under 50 minutes which was exciting. I began to ease-up a little coming into the finish then kicked it home.


I was able to run 49:49 which was an amazing performance. I was very pleased with how well I had run with no speed work, a few tempo efforts, but mostly running slow in all this snow and freezing cold. I averaged right around 5:21 a mile which meant that I kept my pace really consistent the whole way through. This is very exciting to know that I am somehow in much better fitness than anticipated this time of year.  I look forward to getting back to training well and beginning to get myself race-ready for Cayuga Trails.

Thank you Mammut North America for all the support. Dion Snowshoes, Karhu/Craft, Fit socks for the blister free run socks, Acidotic Racing for being an awesome team, Team Confluence, Ashlee, and everyone else that shows me some love. Without you, I would not have the motivation to dream for more. Thank you!

Those elites running in Cayuga Trails this June, I am every excited to mix it up with you and I hope that I can get my name tossed into the list of top ultra runners in North America. Train well, rest well, and see everyone at Cayuga!

Taking the lead at mile four with the first downhill section

Powering up the big hill at mile 8.

The Christmas Blues- Upstate New York and How to Train in the Dead of Winter

For all those out there, you probably have already seen some significant snow and icky weather to make any commute a headache waiting to happen. Currently, I am living in lovely Upstate New York a mecca for lake-effect snow and cold harsh winter conditions. Luckily, nowadays we have wonderful companies that are producing running/outdoor apparel that can function well in really cold temps.  My sponsor Mammut, has some of the best winter running apparel out there!  Because their apparel has their roots in Alpine performance, you know that the gear is going to last and will keep you warm regardless of the conditions. Below will be my "ode to Mammut MTR", a review of their current winter items I have come to love for my winter racing and training and why they are so awesome!





The First top that I will Investigate is the Kala Patar Jacket Hoody.

*Priced at $149 this jacket does everything you could ask for out of a warm and super-functional mid/outer layer. I love hoodies for running in Upstate New York because of the wind-chill and precipitation that often times the hood is able to add that extra 5-10 degrees of warmth your head is missing.  The Kala Patar Hoody has a great warm wind-blocking thermal fleece called Field Sensor. The jacket also has the following features: Combination of two different functional materials,
Waffle backing retains heat, durable and fast-drying outside, soft and warm inside, Elastic inserts for optimum freedom of movement, Thin and elastic material in the hip area to avoid creating too much bulk under a climbing harness or in the pants, 1 chest pocket with zip, Close-fitting hood, Lots of freedom of movement, Flatlock, non-protruding seams, Thumb loop made for comfort and durability
and an Athletic Fit (As mentioned from Mammut.ch.com). 

If I had to some up what makes this jacket such a core piece it would be

Range of Movement    This stretch top features a great balance of stretchy fabric mixed with the Field Sensor fleece which gives you the proper range of movement desired in running.  The piece moves with you as an extension of the body rather than some piece of fabric that restricts your movement.  The Kala Patar Tech Hoody gives you that smooth flow in running and really excels. From trail running, road running, to snowshoe running, this top is hard to be beat. 

Warmth/Insulation    This top is one of my best that I own in this department. Not only is this hooded jacket light weight and can easily be layered and packed away, but the hoody absolutely thrives in terms of warmth.  Most cold blustery winter days, I just need a technical short sleeve or long sleeve shirt to and the jacket and I am all set. The waffle fleece outer shell blocks some wind making it a wind-resistant top and the hood acts as a great buffer for extremely cold snaps in Upstate which occur frequently this time of year.  I never over-heat in this top and with a proper layering depending on the harsh conditions, this top never goes stale. Also great for snowshoe running as the snow that you kick up on most regular thermal mid layer running tops absorb the snow as it melts and re-freezes. With the Kala Patar top, this does not occur which means you stay nice and dry for the whole duration of a snowshoe run and after.

Versatility     This top is my favorite mid layer/jacket from Mammut for high aerobic activities. Snowshoe Running this top excels, cold long training runs it excels, short quick fartlek runs it excels, and even as a comfortable top to wear around town. Mammut's category of "Alpine Performance" is one of the best and most versatile categories in their line of products. This top is easily packable, able to be comfortably layered with and fits well under soft or hard shell jackets, and provides exceptional warmth.  It can act as a core Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter piece with the right levels of layering. The fleece is also tear resistant and does not feel like it will easily pill which is something we often notice with other outdoor companies and their fleece jackets. Great for running, snowshoeing, hiking, ice climbing, rock climbing, going out on a boat, you name it this top can handle it.

Weight    To sum it up, this top is light but not too thin.



Another great top Mammut has been making is the MTR 141 Thermo Half Zip. This is your nice and warm half zip with reflective Mammut logos on the chest and shoulder as well as a cozy internal fleece and nice stretch warm jersey fabric.  What makes the MTR 141 Thermo top competitive with other brands is that it seems to handle the STRETCH MOBILITY category the best I have seen out of a thermal run top of the same caliber.  Mammut's is warmer than most that would have this level of stretch. It is just a wonderful top that does such a nice job of keeping you warm. I am always excited to see where our Mammut products continue to head.  I am excited to see them continue to morph and adapt and I think that Mammut is on the right course.

Snowshoe Season---Jan 18th--It BEGINS!
My first snowshoe race will be the 18th at the Cockadoodle Shoe 10k, a qualifier for Nationals held in Saranac, NY-in the Adirondack outskirts. I am really excited to get out onto the trails once we get some more snow since it has all but melted due to the warm weather and rain.  I always look forward to this time of year and I am excited to see how things go for me this season.  I think that I have the potential again to make the National team and maybe surprise some people because we will always have those doubters.  I am building off of my best Fall season of racing yet.  I think if all things go according to plan, I will really put myself out there in the National forums for snowshoe, trail and ultra running.  It might be that time I "crest the summit" into the next level of professionalism and publicity.



Training for December
Training has been pretty solid this December.  No racing, only time on the feet out amongst the steep hills of Cortland, NY.  I have not had as much in terms of quality training or high mileage but I take December as my rest month. If I feel good, I run, If I don't, then well...I jog easy.  I have averaged probably 60-high 80's for mileage this month depending on my time schedule and at the least have been averaging 10 miles a day or so.  I have run more doubles this winter so far than what I have been used to but this has helped keep my legs fresh and also get in the desired amount of mileage without too much fatigue. In the winter, my focus is on running more by effort than time and mileage. If  I run for 45 minutes that is okay!  I can always get a longer run in later in the week or can have more uptempo days to get in some quality work.  With winter you have darkness, cold temps, icky precipitation and just the holiday rush.  It is more than enough to deter us from consistent training and that is just fine as long as we make an effort to still remain active during the winter and do not hibernate like the bears.  I like snowshoe running for this reason. With snowshoe running, I am out in beautiful snow-covered settings and get an incredible workout in less time than a simple road run.  Less miles and the same if not better level of fitness.  Because snowshoe running is very strength-based, I recommend some road running or treadmill running to just turn-over the legs to keep our muscle fibers firing on all cylinders. It is important to keep us limber so that once the snow thaws and spring races are on the horizon, we are ready to go.



2014 "A" Race Tentative Schedule

1. Mad City 100k- Madison, WI ---USA 100k Road Champs and Qualifying for USA 100k Team

2. Cayuga Trails 50 miler- Ithaca, NY--USA 50 Mile Trail Champs

3. Tussey Mountainback 50-USA 50 mile Road Champs

4. JFK 50 Mile--Most Historic 50 Miler Ever!

Mendon Ponds 50k---The Race for the USATF Niagara Ultra Series Championship Points Series

This weekend,  I will be running the Mendon Ponds 50k Nov, 2nd to ensure I keep my lead in the USATF Niagara Ultra Running Series Points standings.



It is going to be a great experience running with some solid NY talent: Here is Tom Perry (Can-lake 50 race director)'s post on the event:

"The online registration for the Mendon Trail Runs is SOLD OUT for the first time ever. The 50K has 133 pre-registered entrants... Double WOW. The 20K has 82 pre-registered; the 10K has 63 and the (longer than) 5K has 18 signed up.
The 50K has some real horses: Cole Crosby who won Virgil Crest and Can Lake (both 50 milers in new course records), Daven Oskvig (Mendon 50K record holder), Jim Sweeney from Albany (frequent ultra winner). Local stars Phil Nesbitt, Ed Housel, Ted Thull and GRTC President Wilt Alston (in what we believe will be his first ultra) are in the field"


This event is turning out to be historic and I am so lucky to be apart of the history.


I do not know how the race will play out on Saturday but with it being my last ultra of the year for 2013, I might as well go for it. What do  I have to lose? 



The race is over and let me tell you my legs are feeling it today!  It was a hard fought race where the pace we went out in was under 7 minute pace at many points.  I kept that pace until my GPS watch died around the end of Lap 2 into Lap 3.

The race course was actually deceptively challenging. The continuous ups and downs really got to you by laps 4 and 5 of the course. The course being a lovely wooded section with hardly any roots and great trail conditions made for a fast day out there.  The rain towards the end did in fact take away from quick foot speed but by that point, I think everyone was ready to finish like myself included. I had a great time running a 50k which in comparison to a 50 miler is much different than going that additional 20 or so miles in a 50 miler.  The 50k race started out hot from the get-go with Daven leading the way.  I hung behind assessing our pace and just having fun. At times my watch would read 6 minute pace and other times we were near mid to low 7's just depending on a hill or a downhill or flat section. We were running strong.  I felt fairly fluid throughout the run. We kept pace for the whole first loop. Myself running a second or two behind Daven. I wanted to see the course so that I would not get lost or confused later on when I knew I would be tired.  We went through the first 10k aid station point and then continued on lap 2.  Somewhere in Lap 2 we continued to run together and with our blistering 6 minute range pace even on the uphills and then by about mile two in lap 2, I caught even with Daven and then kept going at that fast pace.

Thanks to Tom Perry For these awesome photos:

Making the climb near mile 2 of the race 1st loop of the 50k

Loop 1

Ready to take my Jacket off!

Loop 2

Loop 2 at this point in the photo, I had kept going at that fast pace and just focused on being relaxed. I knew I was already primed to run well so even I was going to tank in the race, I was going to be happy with my performance regardless. The winding trails of Mendon were a lot of fun. The uphills were a challenge later on in the race and the cool weather I think allowed for me to run quick as I enjoy colder weather. The rain made it even cooler on the last loop. And so the games begun. I was running relaxed going up and down the hills of Mendon.

Loop 3

 *By Loop 3, I was in a rhythm except for the fact that my GPS watch died in the second lap past the 5k aid station. I had no idea what pace I was running so I was running quick. I took my gels at this point to get some calories and sugar going and my stomach was actually a little off this run. I had some indigestion from the Hammer Heed which I do not totally love but I fought through it. At this point, I was starting to feel the beginning signs of fatigue but nothing too tough. I also was not enjoying the fact that it was a loop course and I still had 2+ more loops to go.

Loop 4

By Loop 4, the saying goes "The wheels have come off the bus". I was fatigued. From the 20 mile point to the 31 mile point, my legs had enough. I was not running downhills fast and efficient. I was clopping and having loud footstrikes. I used gels to help keep me going and man I got really hungry this loop too. I was ready for an aid station to manifest a yummy cheeseburger. It was during this time that I thought of all of the hard work that has been put in to get myself to this point. I think of myself as an average 25 year old: going to graduate school, trying to figure out life. My only difference is I love to run and run I shall! This Fall has been a culmination of hard work. Getting into Ultra running, I never thought I would be able to thrive in the sport so quickly but I have just listened to my body and been as smart as I could on the day. Here I was on my fourth lap of a 50k running under course record pace after running both the Virgil Crest Ultra 50 miler in end of September the Can-Lake 50 in October 12 and two weeks later a 50k. I would not do this again in terms of race running. I did not have enough time to recover and then train to build fitness again. You need at least a month for that training to increase your performance.

Loop 5

Loop 5, I lost tons of time in the race. I had trouble powering my legs on the ups and the downhill sections I just managed a crawl. I was running ok but my early pace had finally caught up with me.  And with 6 miles to go, anything could happen. The rain began to fall and I was like NOOOO! By this moment, the trails were a little muddy and you had to be a little cautious on the descents. I stopped at the last aid station to drink some water and power it home. Those last three miles I think I actually started to feel better. I knew I was about to finish and my legs responded a little better than lap 4.
I hit the final section of trail heading across the road and into the finish. I knew I had the race and kicked it in like it was a 5k. It felt great to cap off such a season!

THE FINAL KICK TO THE FINISH!!!!!!!

Kicking with track speed!

With this finish I came in at 3:41:55 under the 3:52 previous course record. It was an incredible year and Fall season of running.  I never thought in my wildest dreams I would be able to get myself this fit. I won the USATF Niagara Ultra Running Series with 351 points which I think might be the highest point total to date. Now I have to wait to get a sweet winner's jacket in the upcoming weeks. And what is exciting is that I still have tons of time to build and grow.  I am brand new to Ultra running and this year has shown some success and I cannot wait to build on it for 2014.


Items Used For Race:

Ultimate Direction Scott Jurek Bottle
Ultimate Direction Essential Belt
6 GU Roctane Gels
3 Cups of Water
1 Cup of Heed (it made my stomach funny)
1 20oz bottle of GU Brew it start the race
Acidotic Racing Head Buff
Mammut MTR 201 Pro Low (Spring 2014 release)
Mammut Active Cap (Black)
Mammut MTR 201 Longsleeve Zip
Mammut MTR 141 Thermo Longsleeve Zip
Mammut Go-Far Hoody
Mammut MTR 71 shorts
Mammut MTR 201 Micro Jacket
Zensah Calf Sleeves


So what it comes down to now is what do I do next?  Well, for starters, I am going to take some time off and just enjoy running. Build that base and get ready for snowshoe season.  Might I do a turkey trot for fun, yeah why not!  I can say that it has been a great journey and I really appreciate all the support.

I would love to have everyone voice their opinions on what races I should place on my calendar for 2014.  I am looking for 2-3 High Profile 50 milers for 2014 with some space inbetween them. Here has been some of my thoughts so far.

Lake Sonoma 50 Miler in California in April

Cayuga Trails 50 Miler in Ithaca, NY (Redemption Race)

Tussey Mountainback 50 Mile Road Championships (October)

JFK 50 mile Road (November)


I have other races of interest such as the Adirondack Marathon, the ADK 80k, Manitou's Revenge, Stonecat 50 miler. If you have any suggestions of races you would like to see me at, I would love to hear your thoughts!

Top Three at Mendon!

Race Results: http://ultrasignup.com/results_event.aspx?did=19386


Thank you to everyone at USATF Niagara, New York Ultra racers, Mammut, Acidotic Racing, Karhu, Craft, Fits Socks, Dion Snowshoes and Confluence Running/Finger Lakes Running for giving me the support and time to have an incredible year! Thank you to my father, my family, and my love and inspiration, Ashlee Prewitt for all the support she gives!

The prize for finishing a cool map of the course!

My birthday present, bundles of socks!!!

Race Ready: Zensah Green Calf Sleeves, Mammut MTR 201 Pro, Fits Ultra Light Runner No-show, and MTR 71 shorts!

Thank you everyone for a great year!

 

 

Here are some more photos provided from the event!!!!!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2013 Virgil Crest Ultra 50 Mile Race Review: Running Wild---A Course Record Perspective

The Virgil Crest Ultra.  The Race Director labels the run as "Not a race for sissies!", I would totally agree.  With living only 5 miles from the race course, I have had the opportunity to train on the trails, the ski slopes, and really gauge my fitness.  Little did I know that all that training almost did not matter!  This course is just rugged-hard.  Not only is there tons of tough vertical ups and blinding down hill sections but the footing is what makes this race "not for sissies".  Every foot-plant I made, my foot was twisted through mud, roots that made me feet ache upon each strike, and narrow paths deep in the woods where a fall could be...fatal.

This race was TOUGH!  I never imagined how hard it would actually be but it was. 

The 50 mile race was a great challenge and I am so glad I had enough guts to hold it together for a course record.



This picture sums up the whole race experience:

Minutes after the finish! My body is spent!

THE RACE BEGINS

Mammut was nice enough to send me a pair of the new MTR 201 Pro Low coming out in February and let me tell you I was very impressed with this shoe! It has a new lower lug design and the outsole with its different rubber was super grippy but also light and durable. My new favorite shoe from Mammut and I think many people are going to love this shoe!


The race begins in a dark, cold, windy morning where my biggest worry for the race is the fact that I have never run a race with a headlamp before and I hope not to get lost. I vocalized that to everyone that I chatted with pre-race that I was nervous about ruining my race with the lost thing. I warmed-up a little and decided that wearing gloves to the first aid station would be smart until I warmed up. The moon was still out on the race ambiance felt like a section from Midsummer Night's Dream. We took to the line.    With the blowing of the rams horn we were off.  The race went out solid with myself running with the pack up-front.  I then started to pull away with this awesome Japanese athlete who I wish I remembered his name.  We ran a good 4 miles together in the darkness.  We talked and had fun. We were also averaging around 7:40 a mile which is pretty solid.  I had a headlamp and he was following my beam as we navigated the dark woods. This was my scariest portion of the race. I did not want to get lost.  At one section of the trail, he talked about taking his jacket off, that was the last I saw of him.  I kept pushing on running relaxed enjoying the trails I have called home.  I followed the reflectors shinning like wild eyes of a devious animal as the sun slowly started to peer into the sky.  The trail began to lighten up as  I made the first aid station.  Aid station 1 I came out on the group and startled them that my pace was not calculated here because I did not need my bottle filled or gels so I pressed on. 

Miles 5-10---I began to get stomach issues from the pasta I ate the night before.  Should I use the bathroom now or wait until the next aid station, the Lifthouse 7 station to begin the alpine ski loop?  I started to feel queasy so I pulled off trail and took care of business.  I could not see anyone behind me until I entered back onto the trail I saw the headlamps.  I had a mile to go left through the winding Finger Lakes Trail before crossing onto Carson Road.  I hit Carson Road on a nice downhill road section.  I split 6:17 for the next mile and then entered the Alpine Loop.

Alpine Loop--I reloaded on my gels and bottle and then ascended the Hercules Ski Slope ascending a solid 1k amount of vertical.  It was a tough one. Looking at my watch, I positioned my pace as close to 12 minute miles as possible while running the slope.  The 4 miles of agony would be over soon enough.  After the first climb, the trail heads downhill before climbing into the woods for a super steep 30% grade section that then dumps you onto a seasonal access road back to the other-side of the mountain.  I finished my first loop just under 30 minutes.  I then refueled then headed back out onto the rugged trail sections.

Coming down Alpine Loop Feeling Great!!!!! Many More Miles to Go!


THE RUN TO DAISY HOLLOW-------------


I felt great. I was running a fast pace around an 8 minute per mile average at the time feeling nice and relaxed.  I took my occasional gel though my hand-held bottle was getting the job done for me. I was not cramping and was flowing throughout the course.

I hit every aid station ahead of what people were thinking and so I caught them off guard as I am scrambling to get all of the goodies.  I must say that it was an amazing race and I loved and appreciated seeing all of the hard work and support from everyone out there!  My new Mammut MTR 201 Pros handled the rocks and roots and creek crossings of a tough Northeast course like it was a smooth flat road.  I never stumbled or had bad footing throughout the race.  I went through Rockpile feeling solid and then hit the highway road crossing into the last section of trail towards Daisy Hollow I had not run before.  This was going to be uncharted territory for me.  I hit the trail section and immediately found myself pulling on ropes connected to the trees to pull myself up the steep climbs.  The trail was narrow with tons of roots and I was just trying to keep my footing on this section.  For me, the race would begin at Daisy Hollow. I would spend some time refueling before my huge 25 mile push for the finish.

The Daisy Hollow section was much more vertical than I expected.  Anytime you have to pull yourself up with a rope seems like a new daunting challenge.  I came to the Daisy Hollow Aid Station by almost passing it on the trail until some volunteers hollered for me to come back.  I met up with the crew there and began to re-fuel.  I topped off my bottle with GU Brew, got my much needed gels, my ginger ale and coke, water and then headed out.  I was well under course record pace and I knew as long as I did not blow up, the record would be mine for the taking.  I left the aid station after a 10 minute break at 3:51 and I was off.  I flew through the next sections as the runners coming from the way back made the trail navigation difficult as the Finger Lakes Trail sections on the course are narrow, steep, and rugged and really not designed for people running into one another.

As I made my way through the woods, I noticed a runner actually pretty close to me and thought maybe he was a part of the relay.  I kept my pace speeding on the down hills and running the up hill sections.  I ran through every muddy sections as people opposing me on the trail were being cautious.  The fatigue from the course began to takes it toll at the 50k point at mile 30.

My Ultraspire bottle kept leaking my precious GU Brew all over the place and this is where the going got tough.

My legs began to cramp as I would take my signature Roctane gel and then wash it down with fluids and it would go away. Then two to three miles later, the same thing would happen.  With each slow passing mile, my legs were suffering pretty bad.  From Rock Pile to the next Lift House 7 aid station felt like an eternity especially as my bottle was all out of fluids.  I had three more miles to go. This is where the running was tough. My legs were cramping and getting tight.  I could feel my sugar levels get lower and lower.  I just hoped that I could maintain my form to mile 36 so that  I could refuel.

I held it together struggling on the uphill and downhill sections. One slip and fall and I would want to throw in the towel.  Pace-wise, I was still running under record pace.  I just relaxed and proceeded to take a gel without any fluids each time my quads would cramp and begin to almost wobble.

The look of victory, muddy Mammut shoes and Fits socks

My Fits socks kept my feet blister free and the new Mammut MTR 201 Pro held kept me afloat as a near fall could have ended my race.  This portion of trail lasted the longest and after I had passed the initial wave of people, I was back to being alone again. The final Greek Peak descent went well as I flew down the steep 1.5-2 mile downhill winding on the narrow hiking trail.  I hit the last little creek and then proceeded onto Tone Road and man was I happy to see that road.  I increased my pace to 7 minutes a mile or so to the aid station.  I talked about how my legs were shot and that I wish the race was over because I did not know if my body could take me the distance.  I refueled and shot out of the Lift House 7 station up the rugged ski slope.  As soon as I realized the course takes me up the slope on the dirt access road to the top then crosses over I was shocked that this climb is really hard.  I powerhiked this whole section.  I  could not believe that Ian made this section so hard.  I began to work my way up the road to the top of Greek Peak at 2,086 feet.  The climb long and really not fun.  I just wanted this race to be over with.  As soon as the climb ended, I flew on the flats and the downhill sections.  I needed to make up time.  I powerhiked at 12-14 minutes a mile and wanted to lower that overall average pace.  I came through the middle of the Alpine section feeling better until I crested the last big climb.  As I was out on the loop, I noticed a group of ATVs that were following me.  As I hit that climb, I realized it was Mike and a bunch of awesome volunteers I had worked with at the Catherine Valley Half Marathon.  They gave me some encouragement as I was flying up the climb at  10-12 minute power-hike pace.  One thing I have learned about ultra running is that when you are tired and fatigued, power hiking fast can win you races.  I have spent a lot of time practicing this skill especially for the Virgil Crest Race.  Once I hit the peak, I flew on down the mountain.  I had averaged 36 minutes or about 9 minute pace for the loop which was not bad considered that my front quads were destroyed from all the uphill torture.  

THen I was back at the aid station--Lift House 7.  40 miles down--10 to go.  I made it to the aid station and my legs were done. I was mentally done.  My father and Ian mentioned to me that at the Alpine Loop, a runner was only 5 minutes behind me!  5 MINUTES!!!!! WHAT????!!!  

I WAS IN SHOCK!!! Who was this guy?  At Virgil Crest!  I cannot believe this!  I am a goner!!!!So many thoughts circulated through my mind.  I needed salt caps and 6 salt caps I engulfed.  I took my time with my gels and fluids.  This was going to be the final push.  My father talked about how this runner looked fresh and was gaining on me.  Should I massage out my legs or should I go for broke? 

The Decision------

Here is a training run of mine looking the Virgil Mountain area.

I decided that I was going to go for it. If this runner was to catch me, he surely would deserve it and I was not going to go down without a fight for it.  I made the push out to Carson Road and the final Finger Lakes Trail section through Tuller Hill State Forest.  

2nd place coming after me!

I hit Tone road with a vengeance!  I sprinted up the steep section as my calves felt like they could be ripped from their sockets.  I followed a trend of three to four power-hike steps for every few minutes of running. I repeated this strategy and MAN IT WAS WORKING!  

I hit the trail knowing this last hour or so was going to take all I had left.  My legs were spent, my mind was drowned in guilt and defeat.  I was giving it all I had though I did not think that would be enough.

I ran and and down through the Finger Lakes Trail using every ounce of energy I had. For every tough uphill or steep downhill section, I willed myself to run at all costs.  With my destroyed quads, running uphill was a painful challenge yet I forced myself to keep pushing.  I danced along the winding trail with the hopes of making it a strong finish.  I thought to myself all of my friends and family, sponsors, and my life in general. I has a 10 mile self-reflection period.  I thought to myself as being the hometown hero and I wanted to win this race for them too.

I hit the last aid station and quickly refilled my bottle and got my last gels and said thank you to the volunteers and headed for home. At this point I was starting to gain confidence. I was running the uphills better and was flying on the flats and the downhills.  On the downhills I was surely splitting low 6 minute pace.  My body at this point was already in shambles and it was sheer mental fortitude that kept me going.  I hit the final 2 mile trail section before the Nordic Ski trails and then the finish.  I hit that downhill section feeling rejuvenated. I kept listening for noise behind me to indicate I was about to be caught yet I heard just my feet and the heavy breathing of myself.  I hit the downhill section a man on a mission as well.  I was rattling off 6:12 minute mile pace like it was a nice Sunday run.  My watch at this point from mile 8 of the trails to the finish was losing battery power so I could not see my overall time except for the big 7 in front meaning I was moving at a great pace.  A surge of joy came over me as I might have this race won.  I could not believe it! I fought hard and came out on top.  With 10 miles to go in the race, I felt like I was a goner. My hopes were crushed.  But at this point, I had gained that confidence to finish strong.

And at the moment of elation, I hit my ankle into a dirt mound and twisted my ankle really bad. I said some bad words in those woods as my voice echoed. I was 100 feet from the end of the trail too.  I crossed Clute road and then headed onto the seasonal access road at a hobbling 9 minute per mile pace. I felt defeated once again.  I had this moment where I was coming out of a rough patch and then this happens.  I slowly gain my pace and enter the Nordic Ski Trails.  I glance back and see no one behind me.  I am now running as fast as I can.  I look at my watch and I am running 6:42 a mile then pick it up once on the Hope Lake Path.  I hear cheers from the distance and I acknowledge them with a fist pump.   I then pick my pace up as if I were to be sprinting in a 5k.  I finish my last mile and a half averaging 6:25 a mile.  I round the turn and fist pump a whole lot more.  I cross the line and collapse to the ground elated at my performance.  I look at my watch and it is dead.  8 hours on the dot. Right at 2 pm.  WOW!  I DID IT!

The race was an incredible experience.

1st and 2nd after a long day--to imagine a first ultra for Andrew!

Wearing the new Mammut 141 Thermo Top with RD Ian Golden at the Awards

Thank You Volunteers for all the help and encouragement!

Thank you to all of my sponsors: Mammut, Karhu/Craft, Acidotic Racing, Fits Socks, Dion Snowshoes for your continued support. Thank you to my friends and family for all of your continued support!  This race win was for you!

Mammut MTR 141 Thermo--A Midlayer classic!

1st place Sprinter Jersey

My Mammut 201 Pro low and Fits Performance Trail Sock

Acidotic Racing Visor! Brand New!!!

Mammut 201 Pro low Review:

After the Virgil Crest Ultra, this performed like a true champ.  I have never been more impressed with a shoe before. This is my new favorite trail shoe.  Mammut has lightened the shoe from the previous 201, the shoe comes in at a 9 ml drop and the new color-scheme and outsole design are what set this shoe apart.

OUTSOLE: When looking at the outsole of this shoe, the old Griptex was great and stable but this new multi-wear based rubber does such a great job. The outsole provide superior traction on all surfaces and does not hold mud at all. The slight downside of the older Mammut shoes was the heel-overhang that could clip things when the legs get heavy.  The new low rubber design eliminates this issue completely.  It works great.  Mammut is the trademark brand for the most incredible functionality and durability out in the market today.  I had no problems on technical rooty terrain encountered at the Virgil Crest and even with the creek crossings and mud, the shoes gripped well and handled my run with technical ease.

UPPER: I always love Mammut uppers. This new year, we have a sunburst color design where the newer models will have two colors: Red/Green or Blue/White and blends them together throughout the shoe. It creates a paintbrush effect that makes Mammut shoes look super stylish.  I love the new color design. Of course with a Mammut fabric, we have a super strong shell fabric that is the most durable fiber I have seen on trail shoes. Not only is the upper light, but sharp rocks, tree limbs, and wild animals are no match for the integrity of this shoe.  

CLASSIC DESIGN: This shoe is not a minimal model yet has that minimal feel for trail runners looking for a solid racing and training shoe from 5k trail races up to 100 mile mountain trail excursions, this model represents "Absolute Alpine" performance.  Mammut has brought an incredible product for Spring 2014 and everyone needs to check these shoes out.  They look great and are going to function incredibly well. The outsole will also be placed on the Mammut MTR 71 Pro Low which is going to be an awesome shoe. These shoes with the new spongy rubber have better road cross-over ability. At Virgil Crest, I split a 6:06 downhill road mile around mile 9 into Lift House 7 aid station. I credit the smooth design of the shoe for the help.  Mammut makes great footwear.  What makes this shoe sooooo good?

MTR 71- II Low (The pro has the new outsole)  Taken from Trailrunning Review.com

FIT--The fit works great for all foot types, the lacing is able to adjust accordingly and adapt to the foot as it swells.  Wide feet love the almost seamless upper that allows for a nice foot splay. 

DURABILITY--This shoe can take a beating. All of my previous Mammut trail shoes the 141 and 201 have over 1,200 miles on the pairs and they still keep going strong.  Also the uppers of the shoes resist ripping which I have never seen a problem with the uppers.

STYLING---The new Pro Low models have great colors and look sharp. 

Give Mammut a try!  If you are interested in buying a pair email me at colecrosby88@gmail.com and we can get you all set up.

Thanks again to everyone that supports me in my running adventures. It is because of your hard work and love that I have been able to crest that summit into competing at the highest level.

THANK YOU!