Virgil Crest Ultra--50k Pure Guts, Grit and Determination

Let me tell you that I thought by signing up for the VC 50k, I would be doing my legs a favor so that I could prepare for my next two big races this Fall: Tussey Mountainback and JFK 50.  I was way wrong. This race with its slight new course design was much more of a challenge than it has been in the past and man those ski slope sections were relentless!

I managed to pull together a solid effort but still off of the type of time I was hoping for. I finished around 4:54 or so to gain another course record by a couple of minutes but was hoping for a 4:20 and under performance. What I learned was that I did not have the legs for that type of effort today considering that the Alpine (Ski Slope) section obliterated my legs.

Thank you to everyone that was out there cheering and volunteering. It was quite a adventure on Sunday. Let me begin with the logistics of the race.

This is the photo that explains it all!  2014 Virgil Crest 50k

2013 Virgil Crest 50 mile: 

I would say that this year was an improvement indeed.

From running last year's race, I was excited to run the 50k this year in preparation for the Tussey Mountainback 50 and the JFK 50. This course has sentimental value to me as it has been my home course. It is very exciting having a great ultra marathon so close (7 miles) from where I currently live. Just earlier today, I ran the first half of the 50k course as a solid Saturday training run. I get to experience the Virgil Crest through all the seasons and at the end of September each year, I get to showcase my hard training in the summertime for the Virgil Crest Ultras.  

Let me just lay this out here: the Virgil Crest Ultras are not for the faint of heart. With tons of vertical about 11k for the 50 mile and 8k for the 50k, this race not only has a lot of hills but the footing in spots is technical, rocky and rooty single-track on top of running the infamous Alpine ski slope loop which is QUAD-BUSTING, this race is hard. 

As you can see from the photos I took the day before as I walked the Alpine Loop!

This course has some steep 20-30% grade sections that really take the wind out of your sails.

A photo by Hope Lake

The slopes of Greek Peak (runners will go up and down the first two slope sections)

The Crest of Virgil (Runners run up to the summit and back down)

My pre-race gear: Boom Nutrition Raspberry Gels (4 of them), Mammut MTR 141 (good traction and protection), Craft Running Visor with Acidotic Racing Badge, 2 pairs of Fits socks, Nathan Handheld bottle, Mammut MTR 71 Zip shirt and MTR 71 shorts (blue), Pro Compression Calf Sleeves, and the Mammut MTR waist pack for all of my gels and super lightweight.

Race Director, Ian Golden once again altered the course from last year changing the course more than I expected by adding more vertical and a whole new Alpine Serpentine Loop which was brutal.

The race began like all races do, with a blowing of the ram's horn and off we went. I asserted the lead right a way and knew I wanted to crush a super fast time so I handled the first portion of the course through the wide jeep and double-track trails running a fast 7:40 per mile pace.

With the Blowing of the Rams Horn we are Off!!

Below is taken from the link here: http://www.virgilcrestultras.com/RaceCenter.aspx?year=2014&race=4&runner=1090

Cole Crosby 00:50 01:27 02:19 03:22 04:01 04:54

AS#	Aid Station	Section Mileage	Overall Mileage	Arrival Time	Section Time	Overall Time	Section Pace	Overall Pace
1	Hitching Post	6.3	6.3	08:50	00:50	00:50	7:56	7:56
2	Cortland 9	4.7	11.0	09:27	00:37	01:27	7:52	7:54
3	Hurt Locker	5.7	16.7	10:19	00:52	02:19	9:07	8:19
4	Cortland 9	5.7	22.4	11:22	01:03	03:22	11:03	9:01
5	Hitching Post	4.7	27.1	12:01	00:39	04:01	8:17	8:53
6	Hope Lake	6.3	33.4	12:54	00:53	04:54	8:24	8:48

I kept a very solid pace going through the first 11 miles--averaging sub 8 minute pace based on the check-points though I had my splits in the 7:40's. My Boom Raspberry gels I would take one an hour and the energy was flowing through to me with using the GU in my Nathan Handheld bottle.

I ran very hard and I could feel the early fatigue in my quads. Though running the course was interesting as Ian had the first 6.3 miles totally different from last year. I meandered around the course only missing the first turn on the seasonal access roads a mile in. I corrected the mistake quickly and then was back on track.  I must say the the land that is used in this race is just so gorgeous with so many different and unique sections. You have deep dark forest with lush pines that block out the sun, open vistas, the ski slopes, power line sections, creeks and ravines, such diversity in 15 miles. I went through both the Hitching Post and Cortland 9 aid stations ready for the Alpine Loop. As soon as I hit Carson Road, I surged a low 6 minute mile down the hill on then across Tone Road onto the beginning of the Serpentine section.  As I began to head up this section.  My legs just did not have it in them to motor-up the slopes like I have done during many of my training runs.

Let me tell you about the Serpentine section of the course. Not only did this section destroy me but I am sure it gave many of the other runners difficulty. I power hiked the majority of this loop (85%) being able to fly on the technical downhills and ever so slightly attempt to run up the slopes. I have been practicing my pace and cadence with power hiking and was doing a pretty decent job staying around 15 minutes a mile though once  I hit the sun exposed section, I started to falter. Even up the first 900ft climb, sweat was flowing off of my body. As soon as the second big climb was finished and then we hit the section in the woods, I was not happy we still had the steepest 40% grade section that takes it all out of you. By this point, my quads were ready to rupture from fatigue. I hit the Hurt Locker Aid station and was greeted by the TrailsRoc crew. They helped to lift my spirits even after I already felt spent. I was thinking man I get to the turnaround in about 2:20, I still have such a long way to go. I was  hopeful I would be able to make it to the Hurt Locker aid station around 2 hours maybe sub 2:10 but because of all of the power hiking, I lost a lot of time on this section. I was disappointed in myself that I could not power myself through the hardest part of the course but there is always next year.

I then flew down the mountain and said Hello to everyone out there and headed for the long 1.5 mile climb on Carson Road.

By this point I was hot and my quads were done. Downhill and flats I could run perfectly but anything uphill and my quads would quiver. I walked and jogged up Carson Rd praying that once I would make it into the single-track in the woods, I would feel better as I just wanted to cool-down.

Once I hit the woods, I found my balance again and began to pick up my pace. Some uphills I had to power hike, but for the most part, I was able to run around 8-8:30 pace. I hit the last aid station ready to finish as my quads were beginning to fully give out though from Cortland 9, they were already failing. I took in more calories and fluids and though it would help some, the amount of fluids I lost at the Alpine Loop had done its damage.

Picture by Steve Page:Coming from the last aid station for home!

I pushed and pushed to get to the finish and looking at my watch, I was on pace to finish maybe around 4:45 or so which was ok but not the 4:20 time I was hoping for. I willed my body for the last 4.5 miles and made it to the Hope Lake loop getting to see my father and Ashlee cheering me on. I came around to the finish having to stop 100m to pound my quad muscles out to get me to the finish line. 

Here I am Finishing the race!  Photo Credits: TrailsRoc

Photo Credits: TrailsRoc

***I crossed in 4:54 a mere 2 minutes under the 50k course record for Virgil Crest. With another win to my belt, I will take it. This course was a punisher and I have not done enough BIG Vertical days where I think that was one aspect why I struggled with the repetition of all of the steep hills. My ankle had no problems whatsoever which was the highlight of the day. I have been hampered by a beat-up ligament since the first weekend of May until now and I am so relieved that I can resume fast racing again without having to compromise my performances.  Everyone after the race was asking if I would race the 100 miler, and we all know that maybe one day but for now, I like running when it is light out and have the fear of running in the woods at night for hours on end where it would be very easy to twist an ankle, get mauled by a Fisher Cat, or get lost and end up 20 miles off course.    I would like to run the 50 miler again and see if I can run sub 7 hours. The best things about goals is that you can always make new ones even after they have been reached. And it looks like I will have quite a few more for the Virgil Crest Ultra.  Until Next Year Virgil Crest.

Boom Nutrition Raspberry---Best tasting gels! Real fruit keeps me energized for every mile

My First Place Prize--Patagonia VCU Backpack

*I love the Virgil Crest and each year it has been a pleasure to run this incredible race. I cannot thank enough Ian Golden and his crew of volunteers who make this event THE BEST -Grass-roots Ultra around. This race deserves to get more media attention as being a worthy challenge. 

I would like to thank my family for supporting my endeavors. Thank you to my supports, friends, sponsors, you name it. Without your support, I would not be here being able to reach for my dreams.

Mammut North America

Craft/Karhu North America

Acidotic Racing

Fits Socks

Boom Nutrition

Redfeather Snowshoes

USATF Niagara

OK Runner

Next up is the Tussey Mountainback 50.  Oct 19 will come soon enough and I am very excited to see how I race. I love the Fall and every year, this is when my hard summer training comes together. I will get out on those trails, run up some steep hills and prepare myself for hopefully what will be my best ultra run to date.

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! 

VIRGIL CREST PREVIEW: 3 Days To Go---Thoughts, Projections, Sponsors

This Fall has been crazy. With all the back-to-school spike nights at Confluence Running, from school starting, to the start of a much long anticipated Fall racing season, life has been going at full-tilt.  The weather has finally cooled down from the 80's and 90's we had about a week or so ago and it feels like I can run forever outside.

What makes the Fall one of my most favorite seasons?


I love the fact that Fall is one of those seasons where people's lives begin.  School starts, people come back from their summer vacations at work, sports such as Football begin, all the amazing holidays, my birthday is during Fall!  It has been very hectic but there is something about that crisp autumn air that calms me down.


In a few days,  I will be running my second official 50 miler.  The first one was a huge success at the Cayuga Trails 50 even after my twisted ankle at mile 18.  It just goes to show that if I stay dialed into my nutrition, I should run a very successful race.  The Virgil Crest will not be your average 50 miler. It has about 10-12 thousand feet of overall gain/loss and the terrain of the course is some of the toughest most technical trails around. Think narrow, muddy, rocky, steep and winding single-track that will truly test your strength.  Not only is it a tough ultra, but a beautiful one.  The whole Virgil Mountain Complex has some amazing off-road options. From the seasonal access roads, snowmobile trails, to the Finger Lakes and North Country trails, this course will offer the best of Upstate New York.  I have run at Greek Peak at least once a week to prepare my body for the obstacles I will face from the dreaded Alpine Loop to the summit of Greek Peak from the Finger Lakes Trail (2 mile climb average 12% grade) to the Rock Pile stream crossings and beyond.


In my training leading up to Saturday's Virgil Crest Ultra 50, I have done some great training runs alongside with having my highest mile week in 2 months: 93 miles.

Running Greek Peak Ski Slopes::::

Running on the slopes of Greek Peak in 90+ degree weather---(What was I thinking!)


Running In Binghamton After Work::::::

Running a steep 11% grade for 1.4 miles in Binghamton in Newtons as well

Coming off of the top of the hill I just climbed. The weather was perfect and in the Newton Energy, I was flying on those lugs!


Running at SUNY CORTLAND XC COURSE!!!!!!!!!  A SECRET REVEALED!!!!

Private Trails!!!!!

About a 5 mile loop!!!!  Going to snowshoe here in Winter!

Leading up to the race, I have run on some great training runs: The Greek Peak Run was a hot day and though I logged maybe 5-7 miles, I was sprinting up and down the ski slopes and that really taxed my legs.  I also helped Ian Golden, RD of Virgil Crest help trim some of the overgrown sections of the course.  Then one day after work, to get a little more mileage, I ran out along the hills in Binghamton and ran one road that shot straight up into the sky. By the time I had finally made it to the top, I was ready to come down.  The Cortland XC Course run was one of my favorites as one morning I slipped onto the course and was treated to amazing trails and no one else on them. Because it is a closed section, it is not used for public use because it bisects into a water supply for Cortland.  I noticed that the old Cortland Nordic Ski club had marked the trails.  I will continue to run out there.

Back to the Virgil Crest: the course record is 8:34 or so, that is my overall goal for the race.  If  I can piece together a 25 mile split under 4 hours, I think I will run a great time that will be under the record.  It has not rained in a couple of days which is great since that will help dry the trails out a little and make the creek crossings not raging rivers.  

The Climber Jersey given to the person who has the fastest alpine loop!

I hope I get the jersey this year!

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Got to love the polka dots!

Beautiful sunset to a nice 85 minute run along the hills

As the sun sets, it is time to race!

Good Luck to all at the Virgil Crest!!!!  A race not for sissies!

Here is a great recap of a local trail race in Montrose, PA called the Salt Springs Trail Race. It was a first year event and it was so much fun. I ran the 5.5 mile option and had a blast running the wet technical single-track!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdL1_QKmVVc

Kenneth Rowe's Photo of the steepest pitch at Virgil Crest-(Alpine Loop)

Cited from: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=197454313770618&set=gm.631048786939952&type=1&relevant_count=1