North Coast 24 Hour Endurance Run Race Report

How much is there really to say about a race that goes around in a .9 mile loop for 24 hours? Well as it turns out - LOTS. It was a day filled with so much raw emotion. The race was well organized, and while I didn't stop at the aid station too many times it was well stocked. (I crammed our car full of everything I could possibly imagine!) The volunteers were the greatest, and many of them my good friends which was a bonus! Even though I didn't make it to the aid station all that often they did call out to me as I was running by, just making sure I was ok. They knew what was up (more on that later). Chaney Events, well they were amazing as always (official results are already posted on http://www.chaneyevents.com/nc24.html) My family and friends were absolutely incredible - I mean, who in the world would want to come watch someone run in circles? Turns out lots of people showed up. Some I knew were coming and some friends shocked me by coming out; I had no idea they were coming and it really lifted my spirits!

First things first

Thanks to all those who donated to Impossible2Possible! I met my fundraising goal of $500. The Amazon expedition is coming up fast and I'm sure they can use that money! It takes alot to run an organization such as I2P! The education resources that are provided to schools that follow along are all free to schools/teachers and tons of kids will be benefiting from this. THANK YOU!

Setting up/the race start
We had good luck as we happened to set our tent up near Shelley and James Viggiano! This time it was Shelley's turn to run, and James turn to crew. I'm glad to run with Shelley and she did great! James was a busy guy as well, and very helpful. He made it clear that he'd help in any way he could. They are really an amazing couple and both very inspiring! Soon after we got everything set up there was a quick meeting. I have to say I really didn't pay attention to the meeting - I was just kind of numb, thinking about what was about to take place. This was really about to begin. All this training I've done, all the work, waking up at 2 a.m., starting long runs at 3 a.m. - it was all for this. 24 hours and it will all be over. I was trying to absorb it all and it was too much!

Finally - the start! I don't think there were too many people in a hurry, except the top dawgs maybe - and I don't know if that was the case even then! We had plenty of time to run and meet our goal! The first person I chatted with at the beginning was Frederick Davis - a running legend and simply put: One great guy. His top goal was the same as mine. Neither of us had the outcome we desired, but in the end we were both happy with what we achieved. More on Fred later!









Right from the get go I was feeling nauseated. Still running, but feeling nauseated. That was horrible, I was just ticked.







Mistake #1 - I used an energy drink that I had not used during training for NC. Yes I've used it for other training/races but I haven't used it for NC training. Needless to say I'll never use it again. It's been a few months since I've used it last. I didn't really need it, I know this - I KNEW this. So why did I take it? I figured it wouldn't hurt. Well it did. All I could think of was Ray saying -"Don't ruin your race because of food L!" Dang. I have to say it didn't really slow me down much, I can deal with being nauseated. But I really wanted to puke. Seriously, I thought it would be the best thing ever. But nada. Relief came later, then a much bigger problem.

Mistake #2 - Or I should say, a much more uncomfortable problem. My old friend UTI. (Or so I was thinking.) It happened the same as before. Feeling the need to pee every second, and nothing. It bothered me more when I ran, so I walked as fast as I could. Every time I thought maybe I should just suck it up I started running. Every time I did the problem just seemed to get worse however. I cannot describe how uncomfortable it is. I can deal with pain. No problemo. But this is so different. I wasn't worried like I was when this happened before. Wasn't scared either. Just pissed. Of all days. SERIOUSLY! At one point I went to the bathroom - and yeppers. Blood in my urine. FANTASTIC. I came out of the bathroom and my husband was waiting for me. I was frustrated and burst into tears. Joe Jurzyck was there too, and all I could do was just cry like a big sissy. I started back up again and that was that. I wasn't about to stop - no way. I hoped for big mileage but that was pretty much out of the question now. I was stopping every loop to try and go to the bathroom. At night I avoided the port a potties because quite a few of them had been, um - "blown up" if you know what I mean. Just stuck with the public bathroom. I wasted a huge amount of time using the bathroom and now it was just about lasting the whole 24 hours and getting at least 100 miles. That was my bare minimum goal for this race. (Max goal was far greater)

Eventually my husband informed the medical staff what was going on. At first they had me downing cranberry juice. Then they had me take cranberry pills, which I had already been taking since my first UTI episode. None of that worked. I thought there was a doctor in the medical area, but apparently he was running the race - so a man on the medical staff tried to help me out (I'm not sure what all the qualifications are.) I spent a good deal of time on the table as he said sometimes nerves are pinched around that area. He tried as best he could but nothing worked. Finally he said there's nothing he could do for me, and I went on my unmerry way. Swell. I ran the rest of the 24 hours feeling this way. One day later I may have found a simple solution thanks to Shelley V though. While I was reading her blog she had the exact same issue. She actually talked to the doctor who was running the race and headed the medical team. Chronic cystitis is what he told her, and per Shelley's blog: "basically, i was dehydrated, my bladder was empty and the empty bladder walls were rubbing against one another, causing irritation and bleeding". WOW!!!!! So this would not be UTI? Even though I had this UTI just a couple weeks ago this is something I'm going to have to look into - this has GOT to be it. I mean, what are the chances that this happened to both of us? Here's this knowledgeable ultra runner doctor - he HAS to know his stuff. I'm so relieved for Shelley's blog and FINALLY a solution to my problems. A simple solution. I THOUGHT I was drinking enough but I guess that just wasn't the case. I wish I was smart and did what she did, ask the doc but I did not. I'm just thankful that I know now. Lessons learned. There are always lessons learned. I'm such a newbie!

Making new friends, loving the old friends, and my wonderful family:


Ray Zahab
I continue to get a great deal of knowledge from Ray, and am constantly grateful! Such a busy guy (seriously, I can't possibly complain about being busy after knowing how busy he is) he's always there to help and is so encouraging. A wee bit bummed about my mileage he had very encouraging words for me - I'm lucky to have his help. He's GREAT friend and coach!

Jaameelah Mujaahid
I ran with an amazing woman for a good portion of the run. Jaameelah came all the way from Atlanta, Georgia to participate in the NC24. This was her first. What's amazing about her is not only the fact that she was out there doing the run, but she was doing so and has SIX kids. AND she has a job. HOW THE HECK! She's amazing! Turns out she starts her runs early in the a.m. like I do, because hey - that's just what needs to happen if we want to do these things. Running is her me time. What a fantastic, inspiring mother. I'm sure her kids are incredibly proud of her!









Frederick Davis, III
I latched onto Fred and I would not let him go! I'm not sure when it was exactly, but at some point we started running together for great lengths of time. We had both ditched our top goals but were still hell bent on making our bare minimum. His being 90, mine 100. We talked SO much, I'm sure the other runners had to be irritated late at night when they were hurting. I'm sorry y'all, but it was great. We were talking, laughing, telling each other our history - family, jobs, etc. Talking about running - all of that! Sometimes though, we ran in silence. We ran just trying to put one foot in front of the other, not needing to say anything. Just knowing. In the end, we crossed the finish line together. Once we crossed Fred said, "Lets make it to the next marking before times up!" We gave the last little bit of energy we had trying to make it to that line, and made it! It wasn't pretty looking, I'm sure - but we were laughing, running (or maybe limping) and feeling so glad it was all over! Jameelah was right behind us, and it was the best ending I could've imagined, the three of us finishing like that. VICTORY!










Debra Horn
Debra is amazing! She has encouraged me and supported me through my training, giving me advice here and there. And what an incredible runner. A SMART runner. She knows her stuff. She was also very encouraging throughout the race, and her crew was no different. Thanks Debra for all your help! Not only a great runner, but a great person!

Leo Lightner
Leo is 82 years old, and was incredibly inspiring. He broke the record for his age group in terms of 12 hour runs. I'm not positive of the exact stats right now, but even without the stats it's completely awe inspiring that he was out there. Leo seemed to be loving every single minute of his run, and you couldn't help but smile when you came across him. WAY TO GO LEO!

Crystal Basich
What can I say about Crystal? I've only known one other person like her my whole life. Doris Johnson. Now I know none of you have no clue who I'm even talking about - but this is Crystal. A great friend. After her morning run she came down to the race and helped my husband crew. The WHOLE time. She stayed all night, all the way through to the end of her race. She's an experienced ultra runner who knows her stuff. I'm really lucky she came, because it's pretty easy to cop an attitude with my husband and not listen to him. My run would've been more disastrous than it was had she not been there. She gave me ginger when my stomach was upset (yeppers, it helped!), made me drink water, eat - everything. Good friends are hard to come by, and she's a great one.










Family



My sis came to the run for a few hours Saturday, and my mom and dad came to witness the last few hours of my run on Sunday. I don't think they knew quite what they were getting into as they've never seen the ending of anything over a 50k before. I'm pretty sure it freaked them out just a little! My dad asked me if I got that out of my system. Ha no - I'm just getting started!


My husband and son were there crewing the entire time. My husband cared me, held me and put up with my b.s. and stubborn ways. He went to the race coming straight off third shift without a complaint, and only slept for a little while during the race. He went on less sleep than I did. How many husbands or wives would do that for their spouse? I'm incredibly lucky. And what's more, is my husband said that being involved completely changed him. He can't describe it, but it did. Somehow, some way, it changed him. He's even considering running the NC24 hr himself next year! I'm excited to repay the "favor" at his first marathon in October and his first Ultra in November. My husband was so exhausted he slept all day when we got home, woke up at 8:00 to eat some dinner and went back to bed and stayed there at 8:30! He deserved that rest!

My son was a trooper and was very encouraging. His constant "Great job mom" and his hugs when I was feeling down were the best thing to me. At one point he hugged me, I did not want to let him go! I did still make him study during the race. Tee hee!!!

I'm incredibly grateful to have wonderful support as far as my family goes and I'll never forget this. Ever.

Northeast Running Club & many other friendsSo I knew a long list of people were coming out to cheer me on for a bit, but some came that I did not expect as well! I'm so grateful for everyone that came out, and wish I could've run better for them. All the support I got from my NERC friends and all my other friends that came out is the greatest thing ever. I saw Andy, Mark, Daniel, Mark G. Ron, Joe, Bill & Bill, Jim Chaney, Glenn (Mark/Daniel/Joe/Mark G/Ron R. volunteered - Jim C. and the two Bills' were working)Eric, Sarah, Rachel, Sandi, Shaun, Tanya, Charlie, Nick, Edie, Mike, Kevin, Beth, Guy and his wife, Jeanette and her boys, Emily (she gave me an awesome gift!). There was also a guy in a blue shirt who was yelling my name from afar, I'm not sure who it was because I couldn't see his face, but thanks!

My god - if I forgot anyone I'm so so sorry. There was just so much happening, and so many people - but please know I appreciate each and every one of you coming out and supporting me. Your friendship means a great deal to me, and you really touched me by showing up at NC! I mean, who the heck wants to see someone run in circles? How boring is that to see! But you were there, and I appreciate every minute of it. THANK YOU EVERYONE!


The run. Minus the issues:
Oranges
For some reason, at one point during the run I loved them. I couldn't get enough of them, and I do not eat oranges EVER! Maybe it was the fact that I WAS dehydrated? But they tasted SO good. The first time I ran by, I grabbed only one. The next two times I ran by, HANDFULS! Then everything changed, and I got sick of them. Who knows!

Kites
Well Edgewater appears to be the kite flying destination! There were many people flying kites during the race. At one point it could've been nasty, but a thoughtful runner turned around to let me know someone crashed their kite, and the string laid stretched out over the sidewalk we were running on. The kite flyer was not concerned about the fact that a runner could trip with potentially nasty results.

At one point I thought that one of the kites was a skydiver. I suppose I wasn't quite with it! I did have skydiving on my mind though, as it was the one year anniversary of one of my skydiving instructors death. Danger Dan will not be forgotten. We miss you Dan...

Running with cell phones?
I saw quite a few runners running and talking on their cell phones! I was floored by this! After awhile I noticed that some of them were using them to relay messages to their crew. At times I admit I wished I would've had mine on me too, but if I do this again I still won't use one.

Music
I didn't use my music all that much, and when I did it really didn't help. At one point my husband gave me my mp3 to lighten my mood. I was thankful for his help, but as I was running, my music was so loud I felt bad as I passed other runners. What if they were talking to me and I couldn't hear them? I hope I didn't pass anyone who tried to talk to me and I gave them no response, if so I'm really sorry. After a few laps, I took one of my headphones out, left one in so I could hear. Problem solved!

Nightfall
I was glad when nightfall came. I've gotten used to running early in the morning, in the dark and it's quite peaceful. Even though I was having issues I loved running in the dark. The midges were not a problem and the temperature was comfortable. The moon was beautiful, the city lights were beautiful, as well as the lights from the boats on the lake.

The aftermath:
Of course I'm sore and my feet are swollen. That being said it's not as bad as I thought it would be. My son lovingly told me he thought my feet looked like they were going to explode, but really they aren't that bad. I feel like I felt after Mohican, and I was fine 2 days later. I'm going to take a couple days of and then start some easy running. ON TRAIL!!! Running and training for NC really made me realize how much I LOVE trail running. I'm pumped to get back on the trails, I was actually quite jumpy today wanting to just get back out there! I miss them! Other than resting the day was spent with my husband, celebrating at PF Chang's in Beachwood.

Neither of us had been there, but were completely excited to go. Maria Walton, girlfriend of Caballo Blanco (Micah True) had sent us many coupons for free meals and appetizers at Chang's awhile back for our anniversary. We couldn't use them at the time since I was on a special diet, but made it a point to get there the day after the race was over! Not only did she give us the coupons, but knowing that we were going there today she did something even more amazing. She called ahead to the Chang's Beachwood owner letting the know we were on our way. After our meal the owner came up to us, and the ENTIRE meal was on the house - drinks included. I am constantly floored by Maria's generosity. The meal was wonderful, and we'll definitely be back! Gracias, La Mariposa!

North Coast 24 Hour Endurance Run - counting down the days!

North Coast 24 Hour Endurance Run for Impossible 2 Possible
My goal is almost met! I have only $52 left to raise! I'm nervous I won't meet my goal in time though. If anyone can help, please do! Impossible 2 Possible is an amazing organization. The team is busy preparing for their adventure to the Amazon now, only one month away! Thanks to all the new donors that have stepped up - I love you guys! I know some of the donors on this list have fallen into hard times, and I really appreciate everything. You all amaze me every day!

I2P Donors to date:
Agnes Jung
Charlie Bolek
Cyrus Taylor
Daniel DeRosha
Gregory Murray
Jeannette Spada
Kelly Matter
Meggie Feran
Nick Zeman
Ronald Kageyama
Stan Hembrough
Tamara Musick
Todd Shannon
Pamela Rickard
Tom Turturice

Donations can be made at:
http://www.active.com/donate/laurieI2P
THANK YOU!


Reflections on 24 Hour Training and My First Year of Ultras

I can't believe there's only a few more days until my first 24 Hour run. With Ray Zahab's help training has been phenonmenal. I've pushed myself harder than I ever have and learned a lot about myself. There were easy training days, and HARD training days. When I look back now I can't believe I ran my first 50k nearly one year ago - Exactly one year from the start date of the upcoming NC 24 hour. Fast forward to present day and now it's been at times well over 50k's, back to back - week after week for training and it's just craziness! Craziness and I love it! I've learned so much during this time, it's completely different from my 50 mile training. Incredible is all I can think of. That being said, I am ready to relax a little bit after this. I'll still be running, but taking it down a notch for a bit and just having loads of fun. Long runs will be 2 hours here, 4 hours there, as I feel and as time permits while continuing my weekly routine of hill work and speed work. My next big race won't be until July, the Vermont 100 miler, so I have some time to chill and have fun! (Won't be slacking TOO much though!)

Upcoming fun events are:

#1. Towpath Marathon with my hubby (pacer for his first!), Stan Hembrough from Canada, and the great Jean Toth.

#2. Bills' Bad Ass will be in November, and I'll most likely be running alongside/pacing my husband for his first 50k! If he runs this it will be a great milestone for him. November of last year he started running, so to complete a 50k in just a year - amazing!

#3. Possible pacer for Oil Creek :D !!!!!!!!

#4. Fun Run to Mary Yoder's (info below)

During my rest time I'm excited that I'll have a little more time to do some other things I like. I'll be starting a new photo project, going to the West Side Market a TON (one of my son's favorite places - and mine as well!), cooking up some new recipes, and hiking and kayaking more with the family (especially now that the leaves are going to start to change). Since 24 hr training I've slacked off on the meditating, so I'll be starting that up again, too. I think I fell off the band wagon as far as that's concerned because I just figured, well - when you're doing 6 hour and 8 hour training runs you kind of go into a meditative state after awhile!


Fun Run
For some unknown reason I really want to do is a group fun run from my home to Mary Yoder's Amish Kitchen in Middlefield. It's 22 miles if you take 608, a little more if you take the bike path. At first I wanted to make it an out and back but I'm not really sure how many people would be up for that distance (and I want to eat at Mary Yoder's anyway - don't know how pancakes would work out mid-run!) The only drawback to making it a point to point is the fact that people would have to figure out how to get their car to Mary Yoder's so they can get home. My husband and I will drive out there the night before and drop a car off in the parking lot so we can get home. If anyone would want to stay at our home the night before they may. We have one extra room in the house. I'd like to make the run sometime in October after my husband's first marathon. Two weeks after may be a safe bet - we'll keep everyone posted!_

Final training weeks in review

Labor Day weekend was a wild one. One of my hardest weekends of running - and all because of the stinkin' wind! The weekend started out kind of hairy, as I wasn't sure what to do as Saturday would be the only day that could potentially interfere with my son's XC invitational. Miss that? NO WAY! As luck would have it, my husband was on second shift. So that meant he could drive my son to XC, and I could simply run there. I started out early in the morning Saturday, and it was pouring. The rain wasn't so bad actually, it was the WIND. It was horrible. And I was running into it for 90% of my run. There was nothing I could do about that, that was the direction my family was headed later in the morning! A couple times the wind actually pushed me backwards. I was clenching my body and cursing the wind with every step. I had just purchased an mp3 player since we will be allowed to use it during the 24 hr. I wanted to get used to running with headphones again, but it was pouring so I didn't take it out right away. An hour passed and I couldn't stand the sound of the wind anymore. It was still raining, but I took out my mp3 anyway. Only one hour in and I didn't really give damn if the thing broke. I just didn't want to hear that wind anymore! (the mp3 is safe, no damage!) 30 mph winds, Gale warnings on Lake Erie - what a crazy run! My son's XC team gave me a lift though - and it was the most simple, amazing thing. They actually passed me on the bus as I was running to their meet and started waving and smiling to me. That gave me a little surge of energy the last hour of my run. They're the greatest! I thought I would embarrass my son coming to the meet with my reflecto gear on, my spi belt (aka fanny pack, as he calls it), hydration pack, and headlamp - but I guess I didn't do too much damage! I was so relieved when I got to the meet and reached my time goal. I stopped, then had to do it all over again the next day. The winds were reduced by half, but I was feeling the effect of all that muscle clenching the day before. It was slower, and I still hated the wind. My husband joined me for 20 miles of the run and we ran to Fairport Beach.










This past weekend:

I had no more back to backs, just a long run that I took relatively easy. I wanted to enjoy my last training run, and for the first time througout the whole training did not set a mileage goal within my main goal of time. I ran, took pictures, stopped to look at flowers - all that girly stuff.



With all the stopping I was surprised at where my half-way point was-in Geneva! I saw really interesting things. I ran through Unionville (always heard of it, never saw it).


I ran past a strange house that I've named the Conspiracy Theory house. I couldn't really make out what point these people are trying to get across exactly - there are so many complaints thrown up there -all with a peace sign on the front door! I don't get it. Throw in a couple wineries and nurseries, and it was a pretty amazing run. An ice bath marked the end of my North Coast 24 Hour Training. One amazing, worthwhile, fun ride. I'll never forget all the support I received from so many people. You all have been so amazing, and I'll be thinking of everyone during my run. THANK YOU! I'm so excited and nervous, but am ready to give it my all!

North Coast 24 hour training, Riverside XC, Lactic Acid, and The Greatest People!

I can't believe it's almost here. My biggest event so far, the North Coast 24 Hour Endurance Run! I'm feeling many similar emotions that I felt in regards to my first marathon. Fear, excitement, wonder, doubt. There is a big difference from my first marathon though. All my amazing friends who are supporting me! I've met some excellent people since I've started running this ultra-running business and continue to do so! I keep thinking last year I trained for YUTC all on my own. Solo. Lonely. What a big difference a year makes! It's such an amazing community. A family really. A great big wonderful family that I'm so glad to be a part of!

Many of you have asked what you can do, how you can help, and have told me you'll be there for the North Coast 24! I love you guys! I really am so so lucky! And, not to mention my amazing family! My husband and son, who put up with me making tons of noise and heading out the door at 2, 3 a.m. for long runs. My husband, who has joined me for a 3 a.m. run, and for being my personal mausuesse after mega long runs! Also - they'll be spending the whole entire race with me at Edgewater, sitting, camping out, watching, crewing and supporting. I will certainly be returning the favor when my husband runs his first marathon in October, the Towpath Marathon! I am hoping to be recovered enough from NC that I can run alongside him, supporting him in his first marathon. Stan Hembrough from our great neighbor up north will once again be joining us, a month after his running his first ultra! And - last but not least - JEAN TOTH. She will be coming with us to Towpath and I hope (again if I am recovered from NC)I can run her through to the end after I run with my husband. Seriously, Jean is my idol. How can I describe her? The Energizer Bunny. Wonder Woman. 74 years old and still running marathons. INCREDIBLE! I've never met anyone like her, and just know I'm a better person because I know her! I never get tired of hearing her stories, and grin like a goof every time I'm listening to them. I love Jean!

I wanted to thank everyone who has donated to Impossible2Possible so far! You are all so amazing! It's a wonderful organization that really creates a domino effect of giving to everyone who is involved. I like to think of it as a real life Pay-it-Forward. Thank you! I got many new donations this week and have now reached the half-way point of my goal. My supporters:

Agnes Jung
Cyrus Taylor
Gregory Murray
Kelly Matter
Ronald Kageyama
Stan Hembrough
Tamara Musick
Todd Shannon
Pamela Rickard

Please join my amazing friends and my way cool sister in donating to this great organization!

It's easy, safe, and secure. Just go to the following link-your money goes straight to I2P!

http://www.active.com/donate/laurieI2P

Thank you all! Every dollar helps! Whether you give $1 or $100 it's going to an excellent organization, one that has benefitted and is benfitting people from Ohio!

ON TRAINING
Guy Gadomski always seems to come around when I need a good kick in the you-know-what. He had heard about my UTI episode the weekend before and called me that night. Sent me an email later in the week, asking to join me on my Saturday run. I definitely needed that! I had been running slow all week. I don't really know why, the weather was good, the meds were working, so I was frustrated. I admit I was pretty scared when I got his email. The last run we did together, 13 miles and clocked a 7:13/mile pace. I almost vomitted just thinking about it, but knew I needed this. While we didn't go out as fast as our last run we did keep it under an 8:00/mile pace (around 7:50-ish), which I was completely thrilled with considering my week. It felt amazing, and I'm glad Guy was there to help me get out of my rut! Charlie Bolek ran with us for a good chunk of time as well, and let me say he is getting SUPER fast! YUTC will be no problemo for my man Charlie! I can't wait to hear about his experience there! Charlie - you better call me at NC with an update!!!!

LACTIC ACID
I knew about lactic acid, but I didn't really KNOW about it, if you get my drift. I don't think I've ever experienced lactic acid build up, as odd as it may sound. But yesterday it happened. I've heard so much about it that instantly I knew what was happening. I ran fast, again, considering last week - kept it at a 7:10/mile average. I was completely fine during the run, but when I stopped it hit like a thunderbolt. I actually said out loud "What the #&^@!!!" It was this immediate surge of pain. Not a nasty pain though (as sick as this may sound). You see I'm an odd bird. I think shin splints feel somewhat good. This was the same way. I'm still feeling the burn today, but managed a quick run with a new running group, teachers from Riverside High School - which I KNOW my son is just thrilled about (tee hee!) Haven't looked at the stats yet but I managed a 7:30/mile something pace. I felt a bit incomplete ending the run though, as I didn't have to run as long as everyone else. It was great to meet a new group of people though, and I'm looking forward to many more runs with this group. They were really friendly, and I'm a bit bummed I had to turn around so soon!


Riverside XC
My son has begun his second cross country season. I'm so proud of him, he's really taking on a lot this year. Drama Club, XC, Honors Classes - SHEESH! He's managing really well so far, but this IS just the start of the school year. Later on will also call for Ski Club and trying out for track. Busy Busy!


Cross Country is going good and he has improved significantly! It's amazing to see! Last year he was more a back of the pack runner.



I'm wondering if his training and running the Cleveland 1/2 marathon had anything to do with his improvement. I'm certain it has. And he did continue his running through summer, so he's pretty good at running in this heat and humidity. Not to mention he's also been skateboarding so much, as I logged endless miles in our local park. My mini me is looking good and feeling strong, and I'm one proud mama! I can't wait to see all the upcoming meets and cheer on the whole XC team. GO RIVERSIDE!


NORTH COAST 24 HOUR ENDURANCE RUN, AND MY WONDERFUL FRIENDS
I mentioned above about the great number of friends that told me they were coming down to support me for the North Coast 24. I can't say how much this means to me. To see you all there will be so incredible - how could I possibly do anything but my best! I have goals within goals for this race. Time goals, mileage goals, best case goals, worst case goals - maybe I should just RUN and forget about it! My best races come when I'm having a blast anyway! We'll see what happens. It's a long time to be running, and anything can happen. All I know is that I'll try my best. I've had an excellent friend and coach in Ray Zahab, and completely trust in everything he has told me! I am stronger and wiser because of his training (but still just as stubborn, and still totally type A when it comes to training!). I'm so appreciative of everything, and damn lucky! The next big one has already been decided. July. 2011. VERMONT 100!

Thanks to everyone for all your amazing support. Family, friends - I couldn't do any of this without you guys by my side. Who could ask for more!

North Coast 24 Hour training weekend = FAIL! and the I2P fundraiser kicks off!

Impossible2Possible

My Impossible2Possible fundraiser has now begun! My goal is $500 and I have reached $150 of that goal so far. Please help by going to the following link to donate:

http://www.active.com/donate/laurieI2P

Special thanks goes to those that have donated so far! The following have been so generous in helping out, thank you!

Ron Kageyama - California
Cyrus Taylor - Ohio
Pam Rickard - Virginia
Kelly Matter - Ohio

Impossible2Possible is an incredible organization that reaches out to inspire youth everywhere. Please join us in donating to this wonderful organization!

North Coast 24 Training weekend = FAIL

This week started like all others have been. Running. Running. Running some more. This past weekend called for a big long run, and I was pumped. I've put in the hours I was scheduled to run before during this training period, and it was fast becoming my new favorite training distance/time. I had all my gear set out by Thursday, my potatoes boiled and I was ready for Saturday's run!

***DISCLOSURE!!***
Possible TMI for some people, but I feel I need to share it. One day it could be helpful to someone out there.

Saturday started out like any other. I woke up very early to get my long run in. Scarfed down my oatmeal and coffee and headed out the door. It was extremely humid and pretty warm out. I got to my starting location and off I went. By a mile I was drenched. Other than that I felt fine, except for this horrible feeling that I needed to go to the bathroom REALLY bad. And I did. Again. And again. And again. There are port a potty's and a gas station along my early a.m. route - the route I run before the rest of the group trickles in. They became my new home on Saturday. I was frustrated. Mostly because when I would go - I would STILL feel like I needed to go. I couldn't figure out why I felt this way. It was uncomfortable, but I could still run. Not fast, but I was doing it. It was more like - well it just pissed me off, basically. A couple hours into my run is when I started to feel somewhat concerned. It was still dark, but I could tell what little I was going was very very dark. And getting darker each time. All I could think of is the news clip on CNN that flashed up images of Badwater: urine cups all in a row, doctors checking them over and over. I started questioning myself. "Am I drinking too much? Am I drinking too little? Did I over do it with the electrolytes? WHAT THE HELL!" I met up with some NERC runners (thankfully) around 6:00. By then it was even worse. I told a couple of the runners that I didn't know what was going on - that something just wasn't right. I just had to watch, and if it got worse I (1/4 jokingly, 3/4 seriously) said at least I was close to the hospital. All this time in my head I'm still trying to figure out what the heck I was doing wrong. Well the run with the group didn't last long! We reached a turning point but I was close to the bathroom (about .20 miles away) I ran to the bathroom and most everyone ran on. I got to the bathroom on the path and there it was. Blood in the urine. Freakin awesome. It wasn't too bad yet, but that has never happened to me so I was pretty worried. I came out of the bathroom and told a couple running buds that had waited at the turning point to just run ahead, I had my cell. And that was it. I was pretty scared at that point. I can't even say how many times I called my son - waking him up telling him to check the internet for some sort of clues to what was going on. NADA. Husband was at work, where it's almost impossible to get ahold of him. I wanted in every way to call Ray, but didn't want to wake up him or his family, so I held off.

It seemed like it took forever to get down that bike path, uncomfortable and just worrying, not understanding, and just being plain pissed off. I had a time goal to fulfill - but I also had a goal within a goal - was really gunning for a certain mileage within my first goal (being time). Funny I was still thinking about running after what was happening. I'm such a stubborn ass (yes husband, I admit). I can never stop on my own. I always need someone to tell me to stop, or tell me I can't run. Hell last year I had pneumonia and still got my miles in! (Stupidly, yes I admit.) Pneumonia had me down for 2 days and I tacked the extra miles that I missed onto the first few days that I started running again. Also ran one day until my treadmill caught fire. NO JOKE. The poor thing started smoking, stinking, and here's me like an idiot: "I'm only on mile 5 I am not stopping!" Broke out the fire extinguisher soon after. All this being said I just shake my head and wonder what in the world's wrong with me. Still I can't stop on my own. Even if I have to walk, crawl, limp my way through - I'm NOT stopping. Sometimes it's not something I'm all that proud of, because it winds up being completely irresponsible.

Ok back to the run. Finally! The path ends and I'm on the road, and get to the gas station I had visited many times earlier in the morning. It was 7 o'clock ish. I ran into the bathroom and that was it. I cannot even begin to describe the amount of blood. I almost started crying right there. Headed out the door, I dialed Ray's number. Hung up though, because I decided it was still too early. I walked to my car faced with an important decision. Should I give up for the first time ever? Telling myself not too be so stupid - I still couldn't help contemplating continuing my run. I knew I could not tell myself to stop. So again I called Ray. I wasn't sure if he'd answer because #1 - it was freakin early. #2 He was out of town with his family. Thankfully he answered! I could tell it was at breakfast time too and felt really bad about that. Like a smart runner though (not me!) He told me "Obviously you have to stop running, go to the doctor - and if you can't go to the doctor go to the E.R." By that time I was in tears (trying to hold it back) but I think he could tell, because he said it was most likely no big deal and not to worry - but was something that cannot be ignored. Feeling a little better, a little more calm (but STILL bummed about my run - seriously?) I left for home and called the doctor.

Fast forward to the doctor: Even the receptionist knew what was wrong! Oh it sounds like UTI to me. What? Never had that before. Nurse - same thing. Sounds like UTI. Really? I started to tell the nurse everything fell apart during my run and got the typical "How far were you going" question. I told her and she whipped around and said "WHAT?" So I lied and said a couple hours. (Did tell the doctor the truth though, since he pretty much knows how I am) Took tests and for sure: UTI. The doctor called it by a different name, hemorrhage something or the other but said: "It's not worse than regular UTI, just more dramatic looking." Dramatic is right! Sheesh! Freaked me out just a little! He gave me some meds and made me tell him I would not run Sunday. He just said "I know it's hard for you, and you run all this crazy amount of mileage, but please take off tomorrow. Can you just give me that?" Again - bummed. He also said if things don't get better, if what happened Saturday happened again to come in, and they'd check out my kidneys just because I run so much. That being said I'm feeling so much better now, the meds are working fast and I'm ready to go!

This is why, sometimes, I'm STUPID

I told my good friend Daniel what happened since I couldn't make it to the North Coast training run. Daniel knows tons, and he's heard of this happening before with worse consequences. I did a little research, too, and here's what I found:

#1 UTI's) are of particular concern to women runners, UTI's can involve the lower urinary tract or, in more severe cases, the kidneys. Antibiotics generally resolve the problem in short order, keeping after-effects at bay can be summed up in a word: hydrate.

#2 Untreated UTI's can lead to acute or chronic kidney infections (pyelonephritis), which could permanently damage your kidneys.


All I can say is thank goodness Ray answered his phone at a time when really, he should have just ignored my call. He continues to amaze me every day. I know damn well I would've kept running if I would have not gotten ahold of him (again, not something I'm really proud to admit). Sometimes I sit back and wonder how he does all that he does. HUGE Kudos to Ray for being there, and to his family for putting up with my early a.m. phone call! I am SO appreciative!

Check Ray out on CTV - good piece on hydration!
http://watch.ctv.ca/news/news/top-picks/drink-up/#clip337843

North Coast 24 Hour Training and the NERC XC Series - Race I

North Coast 24 Hour Training

Well how about this? I'm officially going along with everyone else and saying that I'm ready for fall. We haven't had a summer quite like this in a long time, and it's getting a little old really. Easy runs have turned into "I think I'm going to puke and pass out" runs.

NC training is going really well and I'm having so much fun doing it! I'm really liking this training! (Minus the puke and pass out stuff) This weekend was a blast as I ran with my husband and Eric Ford (Saturday) and Charlie Bolek and my husband (Sunday). Klutz me has fallen 2 weeks in a row now. This a.m. I got a mouthful of dirt and it was well, crunchy. Good stuff. I wonder if there's protein in dirt? Tops on the list for the weekend: seeing the biggest, most beautiful owl I have ever seen. This is the joy you get when you run early in the morning! After the rain subsided this morning we finished up back to school shopping for my son (hehe) and then it was off to the beach for some skimboarding action. The waves were great for it today! Back to reality though - blah - MONDAY!

NERC XC Series: #1

So I know I said no more races until NC - but this one was only $3 and my son had not run yet for the day, so we went. Going into it I knew I wasn't about to run like Speedy Gonzalez after an amazing training weekend, but it's always fun to run at Pen Glen. (My favorite time to run there, stupid as it may sound, is during wicked thunderstorms. The thunder just echoes off the old Halle remnants and is incredible!) In the end I wound up with 2nd place in my age group. This Tuesday brings race #2 with a potluck dinner at Guy Gadomski's house for NERC members. Last year he had 30 + people, so be prepared to eat if you're coming! I'm not sure if we'll be able to make it this week, it will most likely depend on what my son does during his XC practice for the day - but for everyone else interested: 3 bucks how could you go wrong? NERC does sell tshirts before and after the race if you'd like to purchase one. (Technical shirts! WOOT!)

Endurance Junkies

Check it out! Endurance Junkies has taken me on as a Guest Blogger. The first stories they are putting up are my race report from Mohican and a recipe of mine. The recipe appears to be going up first:

http://endurancejunkies.com/blog/2010/08/15/frappuccino-style-recovery-drink/


Everyone have a great week! Looks like temps will not be in the 90's, so that's always a plus! Happy Running All!

Northcoast 24 training and the NERC Cross Country Series

North Coast 24 Hour Training

So I've been busy. Running. And running. And running. Running in itty bitty circles, and running in big ones. My son is thrilled about this whole running in circles thing. He's been going skateboarding a lot! It works out nice as he can be at the skatepark while I am running and get to do his favorite activity - and I can see him every minute he's doing it.

I have come to a couple realizations this past week.

#1: Bats like my headlamp. And I do not like bats.

#2: Yes I actually have butt muscles, not just fat! And they hurt.

I was a bit bothered while running this weekend. The end of a run took me through a neighborhood in Concord. I was hurting. I was tired. I wanted to stop. Bottom line: IT WAS HARD. Many people were out doing things. Walking their dogs, landscaping, riding bikes. Now here I am - hurting, struggling, you name it - but every single person that I passed I made sure to say "Hi" to. I mean, that's what you do right? Be friendly? Dissapointment struck as not a single person said "Hi" back. Or even just threw out a smile. I'm used to the occasional person just looking at me like I'm a freak if I say hello to them, but everyone I pass? SHEESH! Maybe I looked like a crazy person, running along through their neighborhood - half dead haha! But this half dead person was still saying HI.


NERC Cross Country Series

The NERC XC Series begins this week! The series is a set of 3 5k's - cheap - $3 each! The runs are held at Pen Glen in Kirtland. They will held the next three Tuesday's and many XC kids attend as it's a great way to start to get back into racing for the XC season! Come down and have some fun, bring your family and have a picnic afterwards. Pen Glen is a beautiful park - come check it out!

BURNING RIVER 100 Mile Endurance Run and the upcoming I2P pizza party/fun run for kids!

BURNING RIVER 100 MILE ENDURANCE RUN

Never before have I witnessed such an amazing event. I witnessed the end of a 100 mile race for the first time this weekend and I'm still trying to find the words to explain it. I witnessed tremendous acts of courage, bravery, and determination. I witnessed people who pushed themselves past their breaking point and keep on going. I saw both laughter and tears. I saw pride and a strong sense of accomplishment on the runner's faces as they crossed the finish line. Runners, you are incredible. You are INSPIRING. Congratulations to all the runners, and thanks to all the volunteers who made their day special. This race was well organized from top to bottom. I witnessed the RD, Joe Jurzyck, personally shake the hand of every runner that crossed that finish line. Incredible! Job well done - everyone!

I took many photos of the finish line Sunday a.m. (Beginning at first light - I didn't want to blind the poor runners with my flash!) I have uploaded them all to the WalMart photo center, please feel free to purchase your photos for whatever the price walmart charges for them (I think 20 cents is the cheapest). You can also find the same photos on my facebook page.

http://photos2.walmart.com/walmart/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=3814369002/a=15094613_15094613/otsc=SHR/otsi=SALBlink/COBRAND_NAME=walmart/

Just a few of my favorite moments from the finish line:





















I2P Pizza Party and One Mile Fun Run

Saturday is the big I2P pizza party and fun run at our house! Bring your kids - this is an event created to inspire kids and educate them on I2P. Need more details, send me a message! We will have a one mile fun run, volleyball, human foosball, a bonfire, and the bigun: FOOD!!!! Please come, you are all welcome!



My I2P speech/flyer for Saturday, will be directed towards the kids:

Q: What is Impossible2Possible?

A: Impossible 2 Possible is an organization that was created by Ray Zahab, an ultra runner who lives in Canada. I2P’s goal is to encourage all of you to reach beyond your limits. They want you to realize that nothing is impossible. If you put your mind to it, hard work into your goals, there is nothing that you CAN’T do!

The impossible will become POSSIBLE. There are no limits. YOU have the power to change the world. I2P uses adventure to educate and inspire to make positive changes in the world.

I2P uses adventure to cultivate a generation of leaders. YOU. Kids who are old enough, usually 17 years old and up can apply to go on youth expeditions, at no charge. If you aren’t old enough – you can do the next best thing. You can ask your teacher, principal, school to follow along in school. All I2P expeditions will make use of t.v., film, and the internet to broadcast these expeditions and spread messages on human and environmental issues. Previous students have followed I2P’s expeditions to Baffin Island, Tunisia, and Siberia. You are considered part of the expedition team, and as you follow along you get to ask questions and do experiments based on what is happening during the expedition. Sound better than just reading some boring textbook? It is! And the best thing about it is it’s all free! There is NO cost to the teacher, NO cost to the school, and NO cost to you. I2P’s goal is to simply to reach 1 million young people that will become agents of change. That basically means I2P wants you to take action! Is there something wrong in your community? Think of ways to change it! Some examples of students changing the world are:

Trailblazer elementary: They are selling “Otter Pops” at lunch to raise money for GivingWater, an organization that helps people get clean drinking water. You know – we have it easy here in the U.S. We just go into the next room, straight to the faucet, and BAM! Magic – we have clean drinking water. We’re USED to it. What you may not realize though, is in many places it’s not that easy to get clean water. One billion people don’t have access to clean drinking water. 3.900 children die every day due to the lack of clean water. Some students at Trailblazer Elementary heard this, didn’t like it –and thought “What can we do to change that?” They took action and started selling their “Otter Pops” to help raise money to build wells for these communities. This is what being an “Agent of Change” is.
Riceville School decided to have a hat day to raise money for their well project. Students paid $1 to wear a hat to school.

D’arcy McGee School held an all night ball hockey tournament to raise money, and Southside Elementary school held a Candy Gram sale around Valentine’s Day.

All these students are making big changes in the world – and you can, too!

About the founder of I2P:

Finally, a word about the founder of I2P, Ray Zahab. Ray made history when he ran across the Sahara desert with 2 other runners, Charlie Engle and Kevin Lin. There’s a documentary movie about the run on Cinemax, or you can rent or buy the movie – but it’s very very good. It follows their entire run across one of the harshest climates on the entire planet. They ran for 111 days - nearly 40 miles every day through 6 countries. He also ran across Lake Baikal in Siberia and traveled 1100 km’s in the South Pole – he was the first person to do so without skis. He was just wearing his snowshoes.

Now, you can follow along on these same adventures, just convince your teachers! The next expedition will be to the Amazon. 4 youth ambassadors will be picked to actually go on the trip (they’ve already submitted their applications. The I2P team is in the process now of choosing the 4 kids who will go with them). You can still be a part of the team though by following along in your classroom. It’s free, just let your teacher know about it! Give them this flyer, or led them to the Impossible2Possible website. Many many schools have signed on so far – you guys are all missing out on all the fun! Your teachers will have questions, though. Lots of them – I’m sure. Just point them in the direction of the website - http://impossible2possible.com/education and they should find all the answers they need. They can also email or call any of the following people:
Ray Zahab - i2P Founder
• email: rzahab@impossible2possible.com
• phone: +1 613.868.2888
• web: rayzahab.com
Bob Cox - i2P Executive Director
• email: bcox@impossible2possible.com
• phone: +1 614.296.2736
Dr. Ewan Affleck - Education Director
• email: eaffleck@impossible2possible.com
Mark Dohn - Education Program Coordinator
• email: mdohn@impossible2possible.com
• 8.2460 +1 818.448.2460

For a list of schools that have participated in the program so far go to http://impossible2possible.com/education/schools


i2P adventures:
What could be better? It’s free, it’s adventure, and teachers love it because it’s educational!
• Are challenging: physically, emotionally, relationally, and spiritually
• Push the limits of what seems possible to the adventurer
• Provide young people with a two way street of communication through a live website
• Young people are active team members whether through web communication and learning or active participation in an adventure
• Include a service component relevant to the adventure setting
• Challenge and improve the adventurer's knowledge, understanding, and ability
• Increase awareness of the environment's impact on humans, and humans' impact on the environment
• Expand the adventurer's personal definition of what is possible
• Involve risk (not to be confused with danger) including a risk of failure
• Require extensive intellectual, physical, and logistical preparation
• Require assistance from others
Push the adventurer beyond herself physically, geographically, socially