Rogue Valley Runners

2012 S.O.F.A Manana

2012-01-20T15:10:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow, Saturday the 21st trail runners will rejoice on the lower Rogue River Trail south of Graves Creek for the annual Southern Oregon Fat A$$. Now it is customary that this event be detailed as a 50k trail run but the beauty of the RRT is that anyone can run the out and back as far as their heart or rather feet and legs desire.

From the FB event page;

The plan is to leave Graves creek about 9AM on Saturday, January 21st and run out-n-
back for a total of about 50k. Remember, out-n-back means you can cut
it short or make it long. Invite anyone you think might want to join us. I hope to see you there!

This is a self-supported run so carry what you’ll need. We cross countless streams, but partake at your own risk. Do I need to mention rain and poison oak?

The SOFA started out as a way to celebrate birthdays, but anymore, it’s a way to spend time on a beautiful trail with great people.

From the north, take the Wolf Creek exit #76 to the Graves Creek
trailhead. I think it's about 9 more miles.

From the South, take the Merlin exit #61 and do the same. You'll go
about 20 more miles to the trailhead.

Can't wait to see all of you out there, rain or shine!

Here's our post from '10.

Southern Oregon Screening of Unbreakable

2012-01-09T06:59:00.000-08:00

I know many of you have been asking just when will Southern Oregonians get a chance to watch the newly released "Unbreakable, The Western States 100" on the big screen amongst your fellow trail ultra running cohorts. Ask no more, because the date is set.

AWTA will be hosting the event on February 10. Two showings, 6pm and 8pm in the Meese Auditorium at SOU. $10 gets you the movie and an SOB Draft Beer courtesy of Tom Hammond, our friend at SOB!

You'll need to show some ID for the beer if nature has been good to you. Tickets to the movie will be available to purchase at Rogue Valley Runners starting Wednesday. We'd suggest you purchase early since seating is limited.

There will be a Q & A after each showing with one of the featured runners, where you can ask him, among many other things, why he is wearing what he is wearing in the picture above.

Don't forget, This is a fundraiser for the Ashland Watershed Trails Plan and it'll be a really good time. And I mean even if you've seen it once another viewing reminds you of the good ideas you forgot, to notice those ideas you somehow missed the first time, gives you another perspective, and ultimately helps you to APPLY those ideas.

Pine to Palm Registration Now Open

2012-01-03T11:28:00.000-08:00

Registration for the 2012 Pine to Palm 100 Mile Endurance Run is officially open. We only have 300 spots, so you'd better start thinking about it now!

For those of you that missed the announcement that the race will serve as the only 100 miler in the Oregon Trail Series please check it out below.

Pine To Palm 100 Mile Endurance Run has been added to the 2012 OTS schedule. With the earlier announcement of the addition of Flagline 50K, there are nine races in the series for 2012. In its third year, Hal Koerner’s Pine to Palm 100 Mile Endurance Run (P2P) is Oregon’s only 100 miler.

P2P is a remote and rugged classic point to point course traversing the Siskiyou Mountain Range in Southern Oregon. Starting in Williams, OR, the course winds its way east to Ashland, OR on a mixture of single track trail, dirt road, with less than four miles of pavement. The course boasts over 20,000 ft of climb and 20,000 ft of loss with three epic climbs to 7,000 ft and fantastic views of Mt Shasta and Mt McLaughlin. A point to point 100 miler is a tall order to organize and execute, and the OTS RD’s along with the Rogue Valley community, are fully behind Hal and his race. We hope you are too. Changes to the course are likely but more single track needs to be built in order for this to happen. If all goes according to the master plan, many of the gravel road sections will be replaced by single track on the PCT in time for the 2012 race. Stay tuned for details. Registration opens on Jan 1 at UltraSignup.

Additionally, we will be moving forward with our initiative to include 20 plus additional miles of single-track to this years event. We will be offering training/trail work weekends during the month of August as well. Please check bag on this blog for more updates on all the offering.

Happy New Year everyone!

Pole Postition

2011-12-20T11:15:00.000-08:00

Over the years our End of the Year/Holiday Party has taken us some amazing places. It has also involved a number of equally unique individuals, all of whom have made RVR a special place we like to call, "work."

Looking back, we've hit the bowling alley only to realize that most of us can't even bowl our own weight. With the addition of Timothy Olson, a Wisconsin native, our team score has improved substantially as he informed us bowling was a school sport back home.

We then ran circles at the indoor go -kart track a couple years back only to watch as our stable business carried on where, I guess, indoor go karts in a motor-centric town like Medford couldn't. What I'm trying to say is they went out of business. If squint your eyes it almost looks like any 5k in the valley.

Last year we hosted our own dodge ball party and shrunk the court about two hundred percent adding injury to insult. Yeah that's right, injury to insult. I will say however the dodge balls we picked up were top notch, and made out of real rhino skin, so you know they're good.

2011 seemed to have us stymied until we decided to call on an inner passion that had lain dormant all these years. It was right under our nose all along and fit in with the bosses open door policy. Something he so sorely needs to work on for 2012.

In pictures, here is a taste of what you're allowed to see.

Complete with bibs and technical socks!

There's a reason the ladies don't wear jeans.

Wicked dance moves.

Yes, Leland did arrive with those shorts!

Graceful Jeff

Not the first time we've looked this worn out.

Big thanks to the gals at The Pole Dance Fitness. Happy Holidays Y'all!

RVR inagural USATF XC Club Championships

2011-12-12T21:34:00.000-08:00

This past weekend, Rogue Valley Runners fielded it's first open women's team for the 2011 USATF Club XC Championships.

The USATF National Club Cross Country Championships featured top clubs from across the United States, More than 100 clubs and 1,100 competitors vied for honor and bragging rights at Jefferson Park Golf Course in the Emerald City, Seattle.

Mercy and Bree Ray, Tara Crempley, Maggie Donovan, Victoria Mayfield and Jenn Shelton ran the 6km grass course finishing just outside the leaders but closer to the port o potties. In all seriousness, the team traveled some 500 miles to compete in one of the most competitive open fields in the country and represented the valley proper.

Mercy hangs tough with a, perennial favorite, Club Northwest runner


Tara Crempley placed second for the team with a fast 23:08

A few gentlemen also represented Southern Oregon, Bob Julian Jr and Matt Thomas ran for prestigious, Bowerman Athletic Club in the Master's Men category and in Matt's words,

"My club, Bowerman Athletic Club, ran A and B teams. Our A team finished fourth, missing 3rd by 1 point. Had they tied for 3rd they would have won the tie breaker. In fact if you scored six deep or seven deep or eight deep BAC would have finished 2nd place. Our B team, for which I ran in the fourth position, finished 10th overall out of 21 teams which shows the depth of the BAC mend 40+ team."

Matt charges to a 36:43 on the 10k course!

The Coach in action.

Full results can be found here.

NXN

2011-11-21T12:52:00.000-08:00

For those of you that caught the NCAA XC Championships this morning then you know what it takes for those young men and women to compete at such a high level. The majority of the men's field finished under 31 minutes for a 10k and the women ran 20 minutes for 6k.

But before any of them ever though of racing at nationals they busted it out at events like the NXN regional in Boise during their formative years.

Their website describes the competition as, eight regional championships qualify both teams and individuals into one race for all the marbles over the whoop-dee-doos and hay bales at Portland Meadows. But everyone now knows that it rivals the Foot Locker Cross Country Championships as the de facto HS race in the country.

As couple of South Medford runners headed to the meet under the auspices of the Panther Track Club to garner some valuable racing and came out with some great times.

Camden Stemple ran 17:40 a week after qualifying for the state meet in Eugene and only a couple hours prior to that the family was heading an aid station at Lithia Loop. Lela Stemple also got to battle it out with a 20:57 in this super competitive field and gained some invaluable experience that will certainly pay off in the years to come, I just know it.

I commend both of these young runners for their determination and effort. It seems like yesterday that they walked into the store, no more than 5 feet in stature, grinning from their Friday runs up and around the trails in Ashland.

Results and a few Pics are Up!

2011-11-05T16:44:00.000-07:00

Well you'll be able tell from the pics below that the event was not an easy one despite the ridiculously fast times up front.

Max King breaks his own course record by almost 10 minutes and Megun Lund Lizotte comes up just short on the women's side. Check everything here.

Mile 13, Max seconds in front of Ryan Bak

Eric Poole feeling optimistic

Erik hangs with John Tribbia over the top.

The Stacies! Not like in training eh ladies?

It would get better.

Perhaps a look of indecision from Karl Pryor.

Clayton, Jen and Annie pause to fuel the furnace.

More snowy scene from mile 15.7

Race Day Ready

2011-11-03T22:31:00.000-07:00

The sun did make an appearance today and at times it seemed like late October in Ashland. Never mind, no not the Nirvana album, that the hills looked like they'd been dusted with marking chalk and that the forecast is for more tonight for I have seen the rain, snow, and the course for that matter.

While there are patches of snow on the 2060 plateau it's confined to the few open breaks in the trees and it could be all of 10% of the middle 12. At that, I can't say I think it'll be around Saturday morning and with the dust gone we are looking at a perfectly responsive yet spongy surface for fast running! I think gloves are a must.

Packet pick up is at the store tomorrow November 4th from 10 - 7 but give us a few minutes to get her open. We'll also be handing out packets race morning from 6:45 - 7:45 at Pioneer Hall.   You'll be able to leave your warm clothes there as you make your way up (south) Winburn Way to the band shell for the start (100 yards.)

After you finish you'll be wined and dined back at Pioneer Hall where we'll be handing out awards sometime around 2:30. There will be USATF medals handed out to the top ten Male and Female finishers as well as $2500 in prize money for those registered members. You can sign up at RVR tomorrow and on race morning. Breakdown is as follows;

Open Men: 500 , 300, 200
Open Women: 500 , 300, 200
Masters Man: 250
Masters Woman: 250

There will also be an open raffle for a Garmin GPS watch, not to mention the usual schwag from RVR!

A Little Lithia Preamble

2011-10-31T22:44:00.000-07:00

We are now on the precipice of the 2011 edition of the Lithia Loop Trail Marathon. Many of you have decided that, NOW, is the time to enter. I can't help but imagine how fit our participants are compared to any "old" marathon. I mean how is it that 25% of the entrant base signs up in the last week, this is a 26.2 mile race people!

All I'm saying is, it add up to our best turn out yet. I hope we can entice a few more to leap in come Saturday. Speaking of which, yes it is a Saturday marathon, how RUDE. Never mind that the Oregon State Cross Country meet is this weekend in Eugene, the USATF Trail Marathon Championships are in Ashland for the third year in a row.

Max King, the reigning World Mountain Running Champion, is back to defend his title against a bevy of challengers. Erik Skaggs will finally race the course after years of training on the infamous loop and John Tribbia, 3rd place in 2010, contends from Colorado once again. There are at least a handful of other qualified runners that will be gunning for the top spot come race day.

On the ladies side, Jenn Shelton has finally found it within herself to compete for the title as have a number of local superstars including Bree Ray and, well, Bend citizen and 50k national champ Stephanie Howe. Megan Lund, a 2:41 marathoner from Basalt ,Colorado is fit and ready to capture the title as Titan of the Trail as well. Surely the first 8 miles and 3000 feet of gain will give her little to no hesitation come Saturday morning.

Stay tuned for more info, but be prepared for any weather condition although it looks like it will be perfect for running at 2,000 and 5,000 feet.

2011 Pine to Palm Wrap Up

2011-10-24T12:39:00.000-07:00

I wanted to send over a hearty THANK YOU to everyone involved in making Pine to Palm a success. This was my first 100 mile race and I was so impressed with the quality of the aid stations, course markings, and above all the folks out on the course running the stations and directing runners. Overall this was one of the best race experience I have ever had. I continue to enjoy running in Southern Oregon and look forward to more events put on by Rogue Valley Runners. Compliments to you, your staff, and all the volunteers. You nailed it! Premiere event in my book.

Special thanks to the folks working the aid station at mile 90 on Sunday AM. They were chipper and encouraging…

All the best, Stephen

Finally! I made amends with my 2010 DynaBuckle order and have now sent the remainder of the brass ovals to finishers that may or may not make it onto a belt. One thing is clear however, for those 45 folks that brought home either substance they did it the old fashioned way, they EARRNED it.

The 2011 edition of the The Pine to Palm 100 Mile Endurance Run was marked with consistency and the word for the opposite of consistency. The most welcome change had to be the weather, for how could it not be, it was the most talked about element of our race last year. There was a return to normalcy on race day as nary a cloud could be found and temps topped out in the low 70's. It was chilly at night and on the peaks but that just made runners move faster over the ground and through the aid stations.

As it pertained to logistics we continued the theme by removing a few miles of pavement at the start of the race and we relocated our pre-race meeting to the Provolt Community Center while adding camping along the East Fork of Williams Creek. All editions that will stand for years to come.

Derek Schultz cruises the early miles, he stopped running for 18 miles but finished 3rd in the end.

Many things remained the same and continue to be the glue of the P2P100.

Runners came far and wide to test themselves in the lesser know mountains of Southern Oregon. They weren't threatened when their race director didn't make back to the pre-race meeting (he was out marking the first 10 miles of the course and if you've run the first 10 miles then that's that) and didn't miss beat when his wife fielded questions that either quelled or quickened peoples fears.

Ashlander's taunting the Palm at mile 21.

Not quite sure what happened to Craig, much the same could be said of him in the 70's too.

One point I harp on with all our events is my unending gratitude towards our volunteers. Some come out because they need service hours, many just to be in the woods, most to partake in the spectacle, and others because I make them. That said, our aid stations are captained by no less than 8 current or former race directors. The remainder easily match in service and professionalism although you might not know it by looking at most of these pictures.

I made a point to a friend the week before the race when I wore a rather scandalous Nicky Minaje shirt to a party and mentioned that I was thinking of wearing it at P2P.

OK so my Mom didn't like it much either.

"I don't think people will take you seriously, " she hastened to tell me. I replied that I would wear something out of the ordinary like that to take folks minds off the seriousness of running 100 miles and hopefully interject some humor into the event, but to be assured that underneath, the team and I were every bit as serious with every one's safety and the ultimate goal of getting them to the finish. Again, our finisher rate suggests that although hearty, racers beat the 50% attrition rate that I feel sets the bar for 100 milers.

Along the Stein Butte trail

and along.

Squaw Lakes

Pristine single - track.

Hanley Gap AS, positive vibrations.

I followed the course most of the day, satellite phone in hand with drop bags in the rear. I love making my way across the mountainside, mostly because I'm doing it in a car (yeah right), taking in the course and all that it has to offer; crews, volunteers, wildlife, anticipation. I enjoy watching the frontrunners scamper over the terrain like they're on a a training run while I admire the rest of the pack for their determination and never say die attitude. I wish I was out there with them but then I remember that this is one of those days that I get to give back to the sport that has given me so much. My hope is to build this into a legacy run, one for the Siskiyous.

So I revel in the race that begins to develop. Defending Champion Timothy Olson, whom had developed an ultra running highlight reel in 2011, was gunning for the word go. Fellow Oregonian, Yassine Diboun, was a pre race favorite and set the early pace with Timothy over Greyback where a chase ensued down the expansive draws to Applegate Lake. TAO's intensive training and knowledge of the course really shined over the next hours as he distanced himself from the rest of the field. Chris Downie from BC Canada would close the gap to nearly 20 minutes at the half way point but that was when Tim finally found his grove and began to chip away at the course record.

On the ladies side, first time 100 miler Liz Koop looked strong all day. She ran a very even paced run, over routes that were unfamiliar, but with the keen sense of a veteran. The miles and the elevation took a toll in the end but persevering is what champions do best. All the champions can be found here, and hopefully back in Ashland for 2012!

Leaving Hanley Gap with Squaw Peak in the background.

Dutchman Peak (mile62)

Tim finds a way not to waste the daylight.

Jeff Kozak takes in the views along Siskiyou Crest, and looks to be moving rather well still.

Mount Shasta from Jackson Gap.

This is the 2060 (mile90) AS, ripe with attentive volunteers; Carly Koerner, JB Benna and Jen Benna (l to r.)

I don't know why one would need to take off the FF after 100 miles, they're just an extension of the foot.

Lovely Pioneer Hall, perhaps the last time we stage out of here. Help us grow!

Your 2011 champions; Liz Koop and Timothy Olson

Over and over again I must thank everyone who made this event possible and for putting Ashland on the map as a one of a kind destination for a 100 miler. To Carly, Mom, Dad, and Medical Director Kelly Lange they know what it takes to put on a first rate event. To all my volunteers, this is your event too and how can we do it without all two hundred of you! To my sponsors; GU, The North Face, Succeed, and everyone at RVR thank you for trusting in ultra trail racing and supporting grass roots events like ours.

See you in 2012!

Sweeps

2011-09-08T14:10:00.000-07:00

The Pine to Palm 100 Mile Endurance run is slated to start next weekend 9/17. With that we are looking for a few individuals that would like to see parts of the course from, well, the last of the pack.

That's right, we're in need of a few more sweeps to follow and close the course as runners make their way over the Siskiyou Crest from Williams to Ashland.

If you have interest in running anywhere from 15-25 miles please let me know, hal@roguevalleyrunners.com. I promise you all the potato chips, coke, and M&M's you can handle.

Sidewalk Sale this Weekend!

2011-09-06T17:38:00.000-07:00

It only happens twice a year folks, it's the Ashland Merchants Sidewalk Sale.

September 9,10 &11

Friday: 10 - 5

Saturday: 10 - 5

Sunday: 11 - 5

Up to 50% off on select clothing and shoes from $40, $50, and $60.

These are your final days to stock up on gear heading into fall as you know we don't offer many sales and our merchandise moves too fast to place discounts on it. Well, most of it.

Can I Kick It?

2011-09-04T21:02:00.001-07:00

Over here for a rundown of UTMB '11

http://halkoerner.com/2011/09/04/utmb-takeaway/

Hillclimb Shirts Here

2011-08-18T13:41:00.000-07:00

"Get your 2011 Mt Ashland Hillclimb shirts here."

"Hillclimb shirts here."

Ok, so I'm a little nostalgic for the ballpark. It's almost September and I haven't been to one game this year.

As many of you know Erik Skaggs ran away with the race, his 2nd victory and more importantly second placard on the Standing Stone traveling keg. What many didn't see was that it doesn't take a shirt to win or even place in the top ten of this event. Had the front runners worn their 2011 event tee they would've know that this technical gem from The North Face would've treated them well and provided some much needed sun protection upon reaching the summit.

For those of you that didn't pre-order a shirt, we have some leftover and are selling them at the store first come, first serve. They are $20 and all proceeds benefit the Ashland Woodland Trails Association.

Garmin 610 Profile

2011-07-26T10:33:00.000-07:00

As promised, the RVR blog is now highlighting some of the best new products at the store. Maybe not so new as the case may be with the Garmin Forerunner 610, it launched at the Boston Marathon this year, but still innovative and very new to the market for Summer 2011.

We've had these babies in the store for over a month now and the response has been super favorable. User friendly, convenient, svelte sizing, and a great web interface make this the ultimate tool for training.

Check out the video and see what you've been missing from the leader in running GPS technology.

Check your email later this week to find out how you can win one of these watches during our anniversary sale this weekend.

MTA5K to ACH

2011-07-18T20:58:00.000-07:00

Yes, the logo looks like an 80's ski genre movie poster complete with snow and egg yolk sun. What's uncanny is that there is still snow on Mt A race your Co RD looks like she just rolled off the screen of Hot Dog or Ski Patrol but definitely not 2009's Hot Tub Time Machine, that was too good a movie.

Jenn Shelton carving turns on MT A last week.

What I'm really talking about if you've followed me this far is the upcoming Mt A 5K. It's a benefit run for Jefferson Public Radio and is put on by store employees Jenn Shelton and Maya Nerenberg. Sorry, Jenn doesn't actually work at the store she just takes GU's from it like she does.

This is the inaugural event and by all standards it shouldn't even make it off the ground. But from what I've heard there's a keg at the finish, prizes for just about every finisher, a premium for first man and woman to the summit (you must ring the bell), and word is a new Hyundai will be raffled off. OK, so I'm not so sure about that last one.

One thing I do know is that the event will be a great tune up for the upcoming Mt Ashland Hillclimb Run some two weeks later and will give competitors an idea about the best way to approach the summit.

I feel this race is pretty extreme and although I scoffed at the idea months ago or rather the hypothetical proposition of such said event I am happy to see it gaining steam under the watchful eye of two incomparably capable race directors .It's amazing what, most likely, initiative and motivation can accomplish. Perhaps you too will turn out Saturday and see what you've got stored.

Come Get Some!

2011-07-08T14:33:00.000-07:00

The 2011 Siskiyou Out Back is tomorrow and with that we want to wish everyone a great time on trails.

This years course has been rerouted due to excessive amounts of snow on the crest and PCT. It's a fast first 20+ so don't be fooled into thinking it's going to stay that easy. The climb up Time Warp will be daunting and punch runners into the sun just as you reach the highest elevation of the day. Rogue Valley Runners will be waiting for you at the aid station and we'll get you moving on to those last few miles!

See you out there!

Remembering Ric

2011-06-22T11:41:00.000-07:00

Ric Sayre 1954-2011

“Hey Ric”. I sure will miss saying that.

He was so understated and even keeled that calmness and capability seemed to effervesce from his pores. Perhaps that was because he was almost deaf and couldn’t hear a damn thing or perhaps that was just because he knew something I didn’t. Hopefully, if all goes well, someday down the road we will all come to know what Ric knew and if I had to guess, it probably relates to living simply and humbly and being a good person. The Rogue Valley in particular and the world in general not only lost a great runner but vastly more detrimentally lost one of the finest and most unique individuals I have ever met.

We should all try to be a bit more Ric-esque in our endeavors. Things would be better.

Please help us remember this mans indelible impact on life, running and Ashland by joining us 9 am Sunday, June 26 on The Plaza for a memorial run through Lithia Park and beyond.

Granite Man and More

2011-06-20T22:30:00.000-07:00

The picture above portrays many a serene Sunday at Applegate lake, but if you look close you can see that on this day a battle was brewing up in the hills that ring the reservoir. The Granite Man 10 miler came on the heels of the Triathlon/Duathlon held on Saturday where wetsuits, bikes, and pounding feet set the scene for this steadily growing series of events.

This years Granite Man was a tale of two pre-race vibes. As much as many of us would have loved to camp at the beautiful aforementioned lake complete with community and camaraderie another group stayed back in A-town to pay homage to what had become a lifelong endeavor. One of our own, Chris Rennaker, or Renegade, or Renninger to some, finally graduated from sales associate to sales representative. No, not quite he's still working on that, but he did conquer the Masters program at SOU and is now ready to teach the youth of southern Oregon all things environmentally sound. So we all wanted to know what would become of this celebration and subsequent race. Luckily for us the RD raises the starting pistol at 9, making the journey south of Jacksonville a little easier to handle.

This race is in it's 5th year and the course has been a staple for all of us when we circumnavigate the lake in winter and the snow levels require it. It's a little bit of a grunt as you ascend Collings Mountain in the first 3 miles gaining a quick 1,000ft. From there the course undulates the ridge and you catch quick glimpses of the Siskiyous. This year it was hard to miss the Red Buttes and Greyback Mountain as they glared white, just like a shirtless runner waiting for summer to show. You then descend back to the lake where the trail contours the water level back to Hart-Tish park.

Erik Skaggs had won the race the 3 previous times and would be tough to beat on this tailor made course. Likewise, this was Jenn Shelton's first race in southern Oregon and she knew the time to beat. For Erik there was redemption as he bested Tyler Davis who had placed in front of him at this years Pear, while stamping out a new course record. Jenn followed suit (of her man) with a new course record of her own even after staying up all night trying not to hear her high school girls CC team through ripstop walls.

So revelers went four deep in the top 5. Pretty impressive numbers, but they don't tell of the true granite man on that day. Coach Bob Julian took an impressive dive on the descent around mile 7 trying to allude yours truly and still managed to run within inches on the finish line for a would be 4th before hightailing it back out on the course unknowingly. He did make it in before heading to urgent care where he is reportedly doing well.

Here are the results, but the pictures below behold the real glory.

Yes purple shorts and no this isn't the swim portion.

Erik and Tyler take it out early.

Here's that picture Jenn, if you're lucky you might stay there at the 4th of July run.

Pete kicking it old school with the headphones AND 32oz Gatorade.

Erik is pointing to Leland to get back into his house or put a shirt on.

Friday night's theme, Rubix Cube party

Annie thinking this is too close to Western States.

Meghan's wonders if these will help with all the snow glare at WS100.

Laura's LED western cap is not the most awesome part of this shot!

Tim wonders if this bag can carry a cougar home? They're pretty heavy.

Best Town Ever

2011-06-10T13:51:00.000-07:00

Ashland on the short list for 'Best Town in America' honor

Outside Magazine has 10 finalists; you can vote online

By John Darling

For the Tidings

Posted: 2:00 AM June 10, 2011

Ashland has been named to the Top 10 "Best Towns in America" by Outside Magazine, which is asking the public to vote for the one, best-ever "dream town" that offers the best access to outdoor recreation, along with "culture, perfect scenery and stress-free and reasonable cost of living."

The Ashland Chamber of Commerce is urging people to get on the magazine's Facebook page and vote for Ashland during the three-week contest, noting that the winning town will grace the October cover of the publication, with all the prestige and economic benefits the come from being named "Best Town Ever."

"It's a great way to showcase Ashland for its outdoor attractions and beautiful landscape — and to put us on the map for other reasons than our cultural amenities," said Katharine Flanagan of the Chamber.

Outside last year recognized Ashland as one of the top trail-running cities in America and, said Hal Koerner of Rogue Valley Runners, such notoriety in the "best of" articles (it has placed in the poll before) may trigger more traffic and growth but "it will be the right kind of traffic and growth, because this is a discerning town and we're far away from big-city complexities.

"It's not a call to get everyone in the world here tomorrow," he said. "We do responsible growth here. Ashland has quality — the best attributes of a big city, without the downside — and a lot of cities (in the poll) don't have that. We have good weather, outgoing people and easy access (to outdoor activities) without the crowds."

Tia Boddington, editor of UltraRunning Magazine, moved her publication here from Denver in large part because of great running trails and Ashland's other pluses and says, "Ashland absolutely deserves to be on that list."

Boddington says such fame is a "mixed blessing," but is mostly positive, with more people and more boost to the local economy. It also creates the necessity for the trails and rivers to be better maintained for recreation and could nudge housing costs, which remain "quite affordable in the valley, though maybe not in Ashland." She adds, "I moved here for the running, bicycling, skiing, climbing, all of it — and Ashland would be a good choice for Best Ever Town because it's not just the outdoor lifestyle; it's also the restaurants, university, so much intellectual activity, great food and lots of music. Once you get through playing outside, you can dress up and go have fun."

Outside is the most influential general interest magazine for outside activities, said John Baxter of United Bicycle Institute in Ashland and, its lauding of Ashland is a "good thing ... though Ashland is already on the map for biking" since the Mount Ashland Super Downhill Race "brought a lot of industry types and generated a lot of press."

Baxter says there's no bad effect from making "best of" lists, as "it spurs the economy ... and might cause substantial economic growth from cycle-related companies moving to Ashland."

For the past 15 years, the magazine's editors have voted the Top 10 list, but this time will let the public name the best town on its Facebook, with the winner not only being on the cover but featured on Outside TV. Readers are invited to post comments, photos and videos.

The other towns being voted on are Portland, Ore., Portland, Me., Boulder, Colo., Santa Fe, N.M., Tucson, Ariz., Burlington, Vt., Madison, Wisc., Charleston, S.C. and Chattanooga, Tenn.

"This is Outside's first major social media contest and we are expecting a heated debate from our followers — in addition to extensive buzz surrounding this wildly-popular topic," said Jen Wittman, Outside's director of marketing, in a news release. "This is a great program to demonstrate strength of our multimedia brand and engage active-lifestyle enthusiasts nationwide in a fun competition. I am hoping for some crazy stunts from our athletes, personalities and tourism boards from the top ten towns as they work to get the attention of our editors."

John Darling is a freelance writer living in Ashland. E-mail him at jdarling@jeffnet.org.

Here's the link to FaceBook.

This is Bazically How it Went Down

2011-06-08T10:18:00.000-07:00

"G’Day to one and all, on this very nice Monday in Oakhurst, California!

I have just returned from the Fish Camp area where Frank and I removed ribbons. Thanks to a few nice runners, it was less of a job than I thought. Runners had removed 80% of the orange tape before I arrived. We must keep the Forest clean.

OK, where do we start with this story! As you all know by now, including the runners who didn’t make the 22nd Annual running of the Shadow, we had a tough couple of weeks. With my good luck we were able to congregate at Green Meadows for a magical event. At the popular pre-race dinner I explained the new Plan C course details. Our bad winter weather, including over 30 inches of snow in the Fish Camp area, really played havoc with my original course. The new course had a main-road crossing with the 11 mile loop on Miami Motor Bike Trails, all areas of danger for runners, but because I lead a clean and quiet life style we had no mishaps! Of course, the 30 or so volunteers did help some! One runner decided his head was strong enough to challenge a tree branch and ended up in the local Oakhurst emergency room with 12 staples required to hold his noggin together. But he returned to Green Meadows to enjoy the entertainment and no legal action…. Many thanks mate.

Yes, we had our usual turnout of good runners. My mate and past 6 time winner Oswaldo Lopez did his usual appearance 30 minutes before the start along with running mate Benny Madrigal. My long time good mate Bruce LaBelle finally made it to Fish Camp as did Hal Koerner with wife Carly. One never knows who may turn up. I know the first timers where ready to rumble! To those who expected an accurate 50K course – tough – 29 miles is an ultra. Come back again maybe I can add a few miles! Over the years we have had many distances, but no one really complains. It’s just tough to have a course record that stands.

So, we got started in a slight drizzle with 121 smiling faces on the start-line. Boy was I happy to see them run out of GM after 2 tough weeks. I raced round to the highway 41 crossing in down town Fish Camp where Nancy and her twin Susan were handling the danger of crossing a main highway! All the runners were still happy and those who offered verbal abuse to the RD will be named later.

I then drove South to help Big Mike set up the first aid station. The front runners arrived on time and didn’t stop to wine and dine. I then took off again with McDoogal in tow to set up his station, Karen my long time helper arrived on time. Finally, my mates from Fresno - Brandon and young Chris followed me down a couple of hills to their station at the lowest point of the course. Actually, it was a nice bridge crossing with fast flowing water, trouble was the front runners had beaten us there and so we had to refuel them on one of the steep climbs up from the river. No problems. Nice surprise was to see my OC mate Michelle Barton charging up the long hill in third place and only minutes behind Hal and Ozzie baby. She was smiling and shouted "I love your new course".

By the time I hit the course again the front-runners had reached McDoogal and were heading North. I stopped at Big Mike’s station and he shouted “They had gone through heading up to Fish Camp”. Back in Green Meadows my good mates Stef and the young twins from Orange County had prepared the aid station. The 2 speedsters arrived together and left together heading for the Dump turn around point. I arrived there to find the volunteers were not at the right location, but only a 100 yards away. So a quick move and all was reset and ready for the leaders and only a minute or two later they arrived.

Big Hal had taking a 200 meter lead and Ozzie had removed his shirt, both now a little intense, because the final downhill was around the corner. By the time I returned to GM they had both finished, were chatting and going over respective stories of the race. Both enjoyed the new course and the bad conditions were not a factor. Hal considered it a little more than a challenge in prep for WS, but praised Oswaldo. Miss Hair arrived in GM with a fan fare of cheers to finish third overall and another win from the talented mum. Ken Letterie came in smiling and happy to be the third man. Second women overall, Hal’s wife Carly was 48 minutes behind Miss Red Blur and third was Christy Scott only 6 minutes further back. "

- Baz Hawley R.D.

Carly crushes the downhill to the finish.

Yep, 96 finishers and Shahid, Carly and I made it in the top 15!

1	Hal Koerner	m	35	3:24:46
2	Oswaldo Lopez	m	39	3:25:18
3	Michelle Barton	f	40	3:58:03
4	Ken Letterie	m	28	4:02:04
5	Jim Magnan	m	53	4:24:47
6	Randy Vadertwig	m	37	4:25:31
7	Ali Shahid	m	25	4:28:25
8	Jonathan Byers	m	23	4:31:33
9	Duane Miller	m	38	4:31:57
10	Howie Stern	m	41	4:38:45
11	Michael Roberts	m	54	4:39:51
12	Bruce Labelle	m	55	4:41:14
13	Dennis Koors	m	39	4:41:29
14	Matt James	m	34	4:43:49
15	Carly B. Koerner	f	29	4:46:11

Here's my Garmin detail, I feel it was closer to 30 miles considering my 2:20 4th mile. Moving well but......

I love this guys enthusiasm!

We all hobbled away from the 22nd running of the Shadow of the Giants 50k thinking we must return and give the standard course a try. I waited forever to make up my mind and run this event and I thank Carly and Shahid for pushing it. I congratulate them on their new personal bests and perhaps the breakthrough performance of the year goes to Shahid for his 7th place finish and 30 plus minute improvement.Carly, one ultra away from 30, will go for it on her 30th birthday at the S.O.B. 50k. Like they say, it's all downhill from there.

What do you do after running 50k?

Pompadour 9k/5k Results

2011-05-21T12:13:00.000-07:00

Sunny skies and ideal temperature greeted runners for the 2nd annual Pompadour 9k and 5k. Results are found below with write up and pictures to follow.

5k

1	Zachary Hibbs	M	18	17:33
2	Jon Theiring	M	36	20:35
3	Philip Todak	M	15	20:57
4	Suzanne Ray	F	59	22:12
5	Chuck Whitely	M	53	22:42
6	David Hollensbe	M	11	26:12
7	Ellis Hayden	M	8	26:51
8	Ansley Peard	F	12	26:53
9	Thomas French	M	55	27:07
10	Cristan Douglas	F	26	30:16
11	Tori Merritt	F	37	31:04
12	Dorothy Provencio	F	50	32:22
13	Sara Adams	F	30	33:11
14	Calvin Ajizian	M	8	33:41
15	Celeste Marokus	F	34	34:31
16	Wade Leander	M	71	35:17
17	Samantha French	F	11	35:32
18	Sara French	F	13	35:33
19	Amanda Roberson	F	30	36:49
20	Erin Dickey	F	28	38:02
21	Becky Kell	F	41	38:27
22	Brent Kell	M	52	38:27
23	Matt Blumhart	M	40	1:00:07
24	Bill Blumhart	M	72	1:00:26


9k

1	Bob Julian	M	42	32:42
2	Mark Loewenstein	M	39	32:52
3	Jeremy Eisen	M	40	33:57
4	Joe Griffin	M	50	36:29
5	Chad Wikander	M	38	36:39
6	Janelle Ralph	F	29	40:05
7	Felicia Hazel	F	47	40:14
8	Darrin Bolz	M	43	40:58
9	Lance Cooper	M	35	41:37
10	Michael Schwartz	M	47	41:42
11	Jeff Stone	M	55	42:57
12	Brooke Parks	F	29	44:15
13	Doug Laufer	M	58	44:59
14	Orlyn Skrien	M	70	45:13
15	Al Espinosa	M	42	45:21
16	Steven Collison	M	25	46:46
17	Kate Hurster	F	29	46:47
18	Susannah Flood	F	28	47:48
19	Charity Merritt	F	35	48:00
20	Breanne Eagles	F	31	49:18
21	Kayla Looney	F	16	51:16
22	Casey Julian	F	32	51:33
23	Camille Siders	F	50	51:55
24	Joseph Chick	M	34	53:25
25	Bethany Lalonde	F	24	53:25
26	Sarah Fredericks	F	24	53:46
27	Stephanie Thompson	F	27	56:09
28	Johnna Nealy	F	25	56:09
29	Shawn Waltera	M	54	57:15
30	Lina Murphy	F	61	58:12
31	David Bekemeier	M	69	1:01:14
32	Violeta San Filippo	F	33	1:04:23
33	Karen Richards	F	36	1:05:15
34	Rebecca DeVall	F	36	1:05:33
35	Norman Shaskey	M	63	1:09:59

59 finishers

So Far. So Close.

2011-05-16T18:23:00.000-07:00

Not quite how the saying goes but then again nothing we do around here ever is! That's about the best way to describe the usual events in ultra running that have taken over Rogue Valley Runners, it's employees and agents.

So off to the Miwok 100k everyone went, and when I say everyone I mean about 10 to 15 people. I must be careful with what I write here but it's really no coincidence that we have such a strong turnout and the fact that the race director lives in the valley. Now I don't mean that the RD plays favorite and bypasses the lottery for locals, no no, it's just that she does such a good job of hyping her event that everyone wants to do it, and by everyone I mean 15 to 20 locals. Really though, how much hyping does this race need? I've run it 7 times but only needed one to know that this is one of the top 5 most scenic races in the country. I'm sure that's why 400 plus people are entered each year with many more knocking on the door.

Thursday at RVR was filled with the usual, stinky socks and obligatory leaf blowing on the sidewalk. And foxes trying to get at the new lunarglides. I was lucky enough to be heading out of town so as to avoid the hustle and bustle of a Friday departure, not to mention the 5 hour drive and cramped legs. I also had a meeting with the North Face performance apparel team. I then got the chance to hang out with new team member Ian Sharman a little more. Did I mention we are heading to Marathon De Sables next year! Product is already being developed for Spring 13 and after looking at Spring 12 product to buy for the store I really didn't need 20 year old Dakota Jones to exclaim, "Hal , you've been doing this for awhile haven't you" to feel really old.

Onwards and upwards as they say, literally as all get out. Miwok has seen some changes over the years, and I've witnessed a great deal of them. My first Miwok was in 2002 when the course ran out of Bolinas to Olema, staying on the fire road through the trees til it popped you into a grassy meadow and you returned from whence you came. Coincidentally, this was the best race I had experienced on the course. At the turn around a band of younger runners, including Scott Jurek, Mark Richtman and myself, marched back to Pan Toll together before splintering into a one, two, three finish some ten minutes apart. I was happy to have barely beaten Ann Trasons course record at the time. So when the course abandoned the Olema turnaround and sent runners on the plunge to Randal I was more than upset, the route was already difficult and did it really need all that extra elevation? After coming to terms with the harder destination, the race course then found new routes at the start due to road maintenance and erosion control. Although the course is virtually the same, the direction change certainly added up to what I would deem the most challenging yet. Here it is via Garmin.

I told Timothy on Friday that the heavy front end of the new course and the successive climbs leading up to Pan Toll would really define the players in this years race. So on our first ascent I tried to stay calm and "take it eeeeassseeyyyyy." If you call being 10 seconds off the lead after 8 miles and the last in a band of 14 or so taking it easy I probably did a good job.

Luckily the climb up to Wolf Ridge was not as daunting as I thought, and I joked with Dakota that we would see our first technical trail of the day, and perhaps our last as the really dangerous stuff now ran uphill rather than down as in years past.

Lewis leads in Tennessee Valley.

Shahid Ali from Ashland (RVR computer tech) in his first 100k!

Jamie Arvizo in her first 100k too.

Through Tennessee Valley and up to Highway 1 the bevy rolled over the hills and down them at a breakneck pace, and so I thought something or someone was going to break.

Up to Pan Toll I knew we had a race but as I had witnessed in years past I thought the S*@t would really hit the fan later on the Coastal Trail. There was a group of five that included Mike, Dominic, Dave, Yassine, and Timothy followed closely by Dakota, Aaron, Dan and myself, as we tore up through the redwoods to the multi-use aid station. I knew it had never been done faster or luckily, easier. I continued to ingest Gu's every 20 to 25 minutes and stayed well hydrated as the sun was still sitting low on the horizon.

The group stayed intact out the ridge to Bolinas with the exception of Timothy, Yassine, and Dominic. They were never out of my mind as even the slightest falter will have you eaten up by the mass of talented runners who bask on blood in the water. It was amazing running as the group of six ate up miles and climbs without hesitation, we were like silent assassins barely making a sound, waiting for one another to make the next deadly move and, well, because no one had uttered a word for hours. Ultimately, the climb up Randal consumed the next batch of runners and the group of Dakota, Dave, Mike and myself continued on. I mean, Aaron and Dan weren't far off the leaders but on that stretch 20 to 30 seconds per mile adds up fast. Or as Aaron put it, you guys must've been running 4-4:30........ km per minute. I love Canadians, it always sounds so fast. And yes Jen, we did think that we were moving fast even when watching it again on the videos, ugh!

Timothy descending into Randal.

Some fun racing!

So we surged and faded over the next coming miles back to Pan Toll dodging runners, hikers and yes, flies. Luckily this was not the year to exclaim as Chris would, "mi wok now, mi lay down now." Although I imagine some were doing that a few miles behind us, I've been there. By the time we exited 50 miles Dave, Mike and I had passed Dakota and rallied off down to the Redwood Trail. I felt really good through here and closed the gap on Dave however I felt he too was holding back and I didn't have the guts to pass him, it was still too far out. Through the nettles we went and I was a little distracted, but not as distracted as when we left Muir beach. As we curved around the estuary path everyone was in site, perhaps 30 seconds separated all of us but that was as close as I got.

You can barely see the two white blips up ahead, Mike and Dave.

I knew we had plenty of runnable terrain, and downhill at that, so I decided to not blow up on the climb (see above) but that was easier said than done. This climb and the stairs to Pirate Cove are the crux of this new route. They certainly aren't runnable and really put a hitch in the seven minute per mile average, well high seven minute per mile average that comes with wining this race. I never liked going down them and now I can attest to not liking the reverse!

The next 4-5 miles felt like my toes were going to pop off the end of my feet, I let everything go on the downhills and managed a steady pace on everything else but Dave and Mike held strong. I would give a little push but Mike would answer and the gap wouldn't close. I was however pleasantly surprised by my time, sub 8:07. Extremely fast and well deserved. Where it ranks on the all time Miwok list is up in the air. Courses are different but this is one I will not soon forget, and I better get my rest for I feel I've got some more of this type of hammering on the horizon!

I want to congratulate Carly on a grand followup to the not so distant Zane Grey 50 with her 11:45, just a minute or so behind Ashland resident Tamara Ellis (seen in the video below.)

Krissy and Carly all smiles.

Also extended Congratulations to Dana Duvivier, Shahid Ali, and Jamie Arvizo as well as Annie Crispino Taylor for representing Ashland once again! And a very special thank you to Tia Boddington for making the Miwok 100k an incredibly difficult race to get into!

Not enough filming like this - thank you Jim Vernon for the memories, I think.

Leaves all Zane Grey Around the Edges

2011-04-19T10:55:00.000-07:00

The gain is not what makes it the "toughest 50."

My decision to run the Zane Grey 50 was a hastily chosen one. I say this because of my necessity to race after the demise of the Lake Sonoma 50, to well, Lake Sonoma. As I mentioned in my last post I have the worlds worst short term memory, and now I know I have the worst long term memory as well.

If you get the chance to look away from the trail.

The race is billed as the toughest 50 miler and it certainly can compete with every other course over the same distance. Heck, I have even run the Miwok 100k faster, much faster. Sure the hot April sun is a shock to the system, and after running 8 to 16 hours the cumulative elevation gain and sustained oxygen deprivation of 6,000 + feet really begins to wear on the soul but the terrain is really the coup de grace. I find it hard to even call a trail and would never train on such a surface, you see, I'm a runner.

Ankle crusher.

The course is deceptive, just as the race begins you're stymied . Perhaps it's more of a stutter that takes over, maybe a bob and weave that only lasts for a few shorts miles. However, once fatigue sets in, the ankles begin to bend a little more. Then the legs give in, and compensate for the faulty feet and finally balance is completely compromised and you're face down in a Manzanita bush, if you lucky. For others like Sean Andrish (an ultra champion), you can't even hitch hike home because you dislocated you thumb and it's pointing towards the fiery depths of where you came.

Good thing it was marked!! After seven of these ravine's look for number eight.

When I ran this race in 2003 there wasn't much to remember other than vowing never to return again. I fell back on my promise in 2007 when the course changed direction and wound "downhill," promising to be easier. Not to be. So I have no one to blame but myself for this years start, except Joe Galope. I really liked the Phoenix National Trail 50 he used to direct in January and I imagine I was feeling lucky to be able to seek refuge in one of the many sold out events in April. Oh, and it left me 3 weeks to recover for Miwok.

She said it was useless (2003) and that was the last time I got on a post race massage table.

Clean shaven and probably much wiser.

So my race was for the most part short lived. I enjoyed bouncing around with Dakota and Geoff through the early miles as we jockeyed with John Anderson and a few other racers including Nico Mermond, founder of Hoka1 shoes. It wasn't much after 10 miles however that I jostled with my Scaps, stopped to go to the bathroom and subsequently lost my pack. You see it was a five person pack and then it shrunk by two, two runners left the wolf pack leaving three in the pack, and then could it be, yes the pack shrunk by two more leaving just a one man wolf pack , running around the desert.. It stayed that way for 35 miles. I was concerned with my lack of motivation throughout but then again I never found a decent rhythm to get relaxed and at times became discouraged looking for the course in the 80 degree heat. I was shocked to see Dakota out of the race at 33 and the thought of joining him over the next 11 miles left me parched. Seriously, you need multiple (3) bottles or a hydradration pack for this run. I was foolish to run with 2 bottles and they left me dry with miles to go each time. I found myself pulling back on the throttle so as to not look like one of those 80's Dodge Caravans going up the pass in the summer and it cost me dearly. Things turned around the final 8 miles but by that time the only thing I was gaining was confidence for Miwok and Western States.

I thought about breaking my time from 2003 but those last miles drug on and all that misstepping left me a couple minutes short. I think I like the consistency though. 8:36 : 8:38 , 8 years apart.

As we waited around for finishers I was reminded of why I love ultras. Immediate reflection is needed after such a dramatic experience, perhaps just a moment to soak it all in, and thankfully that was fulfilled under pines, rim and quiet sunshine of the eastern terminus of the Highline trail. As the sun began to set friends filtered in and reveled in the accomplishment of the day. Ian found a smile after hours of physical anguish but I know his finish meant a little more because of it. Carly joined me sight unseen and rallied as only she knows how to do. A stellar 12:36 to catapult her into Miwok, which she'll undoubtably run faster as well. I think I heard her exclaim her legs weren't even beat up! All the culprits are found here, and would have not made it without the help of the numerous volunteers on the course and behind the scenes. Thanks again Joe!

Even the best fall victim.

Relief!

Congratulating the juggernaut. In this photo he JUST returned from changing and getting a drink and making a phone call and ordering a burger.......

Ultra-scenic.

y mas

Yes, he was smiling at finish #9.

I don't think this was a smile?

35th Running of the Pear

2011-04-15T15:36:00.000-07:00

This week I really struggled to find a decent title for our blog, hence the serious delay with which I will now attempt to cover all things related to the biggest running event in the valley. Actually, it has nothing to do with coming up with unique titles, I thought of a bunch. "Bananas and Bread," "Maximum Effort"(although I think the Mail Tribune used that one year and I just don't come up with stuff that clever), "Rennaker Fails as a Pacer," that one i really liked and will go into more detail. Seriously though, I drug myself out of bed every morning, gingerly descending my stairs while avoiding numerous pitfalls (an English Setter jumbled with a poor excuse for a legitimately sized Australian Shepherd) just to make my way out of the kitchen, grabbing my running shoes, and to my computer to look for descent pictures of everyone from the race (read that part really fast as I tried to fool you by thinking I was dragging myself out the door to run, I don't do that anymore though, duh). I say decent, not because everyone ends up wearing little to no clothing at these things (road races) anymore but decent in the sense that I don't think we ever tend to run as fast as on East Main and Hanley and therefore look like we are about to enter a casting call for "America's Got Zombies." OK so that was another title I was thinking of and it had to get used.

As race morning approached I grabbed Carly by the hand and we headed out the door to make our way to Medford for an event that I had no role in planning or erecting. However, I felt like I had put in a lot of time geting ready for it with coupons and bread and signage, really the gut busting stuff. As you probably saw, I did put in enough time on the course though, ugh!

Kicking and screaming the whole way, you can't even see the coffee Carly spilled on herself in the car.

This year I felt like I was entering the PBR with enough strength and speed and to indeed break my PR as I hadn't run anything over the marathon distance since early March. Not a usual occurrence so it would seem the legs might be fresh enough to roll 5:30's with ease. I even thought I might see Erik on the straightaways? Another part of me also knew that this was probably not to be as my speed work consisted of what it always was or rather wasn't, some fartlek trail downhills and the occasional hill repeat/stride.

10 - 9 - 8 - 7 - 6 - 5 - 4 and the mussel loaders blast, false start? We'll, for a second or 5, and the runners are off. The picture above tells the tale as it was certainly one of the most awkward starts I've been witness to, but eventually the mob was off and out of site. Casual chatting took a back seat at the 1st mile mark as a runners fell in line, marching to some unseen destination but in the most rapid fashion. I tried to count the masses in front of me but eventually fixed my gaze on Neil Olsen's green RVR singlet. It would carry me out and back on this day much like a tug boat to the sea. Sorry Neil but I can only think of those large ships that cruise around with the bright blue hulls. In my haste, I thought I had snuck in on the top 10 but it was Neil who ended up grabbing the penultimate podium spot joining Max (CR) and Erik (5th).

I think I see that giant ship sailing in the distance.

1700 finishers in this years 10 miler and just over the same amount in the 5k. Too many local runners out there to name individually but their performance are all just as noteworthy. However I would like to congratulate those in the fairer green singlet. RVR runners Bree Ray for her commanding 2nd place finish and Becky Hacker's run for 8th spot along with group run regular Melissa Schweisguth who ran very well to capture 5th place in 1:05:24. All the results can be found here.

David and Jeremy crest Hanley Hill with no problems.

Erik eventually go the best of this BAC runner.

A wondrous sight to behold in the Rogue Valley, runners as far as the eye can see.

Was this taken after the race?

In the end there were a few surprises. Max broke his CR(not a surprise), but did not wear the pear monokini, surprise. Bree ran strong (not a surprise), but did drop her pacer, surprise. RVR was there with fast runners, good coupons, and lots of bread (no surprise), there were more people at the store later that day, surprise. Nice work southern Oregon, and another big thank you to Jerry and Zellah and all their hard working volunteers.

Another victory for one of the best guys around.

Capturing the Spirit

2011-04-05T21:43:00.000-07:00

There's a lot going on in Southern Oregon this week. For starters, the 35th annual Pear Blossom Run returns. Will there be more monokinis? Will Max King break 49 minutes? Can RVR place 5 runners in the top ten, again? We'll have to wait and see but one thing we know for sure is that a record number of runners have signed up to race in the 5k and 10k this year, and that is perhaps the best record that can be broken.

Additionally, we are lucky to be sponsoring the premiere of the Hood to Coast documentary in Southern Oregon. This weekend marks the start of the Ashland Independent Film Festival, and with that, two exclusive showings of the feature film documentary Hood to Coast. Tickets to both shows are still available, so act now to get in on the fun and help fill the Ashland Armory. You won't find another chance like this to gather with the running community for such a unique event.

Lastly, and a little closer to home, we have opened registration for the 2011 Lithia Loop Trail Marathon. No surprises here, the race is once again doubling as the 2011 USAT&F Trail Marathon Championship with $2500 in prize money. The entry fee stays the same as we continue to bring you one the best races for your dollar in the country. Sign up now and commit to bring your best come November.

The Great Debate

2011-03-27T19:48:00.000-07:00

A working title?

One of my best hooks?

This post does not concern the nature of spiral nebulae and the size of the universe. It's not even an ode to the director /actor driven drama starring Denzel Washington, although I love me a good underdog story. This entry is a testament to the ultra-running prowess of the little hamlet I call home. Ripe with some 20,000 residents, there is not a single city in the the country that fills entrant lists faster per capita, I'm willing to bet at least one RVR visor on it.

So thank you Boulder and Seattle but, um, no thank you. It was a valiant effort Bozeman and Flagstaff, you even had Chattanooga bringing up the rear for a spell. Alas none of you managed more sub 24 hour buckles at WS in 2010, nope not even close Just imagine what could have been had the two time defending champ finished, trust me we're still imagining that!

Easily the best field ever assembled at Fairhaven Park. Glenn Tachiyama

So it has been no surprise to find Ashland, OR atop the results at this years biggest races. Case in point, last weekends Chuckanut 50k where Erik Skaggs, Timothy Olson, and Jenn Shelton ran out of their minds to finish 3rd, 5th and 2nd respectively. What about the week before at the Way too Cool 50k? Again, Timothy Olson finishing 4th and the man with the visor 5th. Shout outs to Shahid Ali, Brad Noyes, Darrin Bolz, Robert Shannon, and Jennifer Callans on thier performances at the Way too Cool 50k too! The two biggest 50ks of the year (so far) and only two runners from CO in the top five of both races. What's happening to these athletically affluent states?

In front of Timothy for a time, feet barely in the air.

Things aren't changing anytime soon either.

Next weekend is the Lake Sonoma 50 and it's going to be stacked with Rogue Runners. This event, in it's 4th year, has become one of the most hotly contested races on the west coast filling months in advance of it's event date. This year some 240 runners will tackle the out and back course along the banks of Lake Sonoma, submerging themselves in almost a dozen stream crossings with temperatures in the upper 70's. Of those starters, here's our contigent;

Shahid Ali
Timothy Olson
Carly Koerner
Hal Koerner
Darcy Kleiman
Rich May
Eric Dinger
Tia Boddington
Karolina Wyszynska
Desiree Barnes
Rob Cain
Grey Hecht
Tamara Ellis
Dana DuVivier
Annie Crispino-Taylor

Obviously my tongue in cheek intro kept some of you reading and well now you know that my blogs are always a work in progress and this one could mostly be defined as in jest, you certainly wouldn't want to define it as much else anyways. I conclude, however, with admiration for an amazing work ethic towards those runners stepping out of the norm while keeping steadfast stride after stride after stride. Best of luck to everyone this weekend from Ashland and wherever you may roam.

Traveling

2011-03-19T07:16:00.000-07:00

Seems everyone's traveling this month. As I train/test here in Argentina, the rest of the crew wanders north to Bellingham for this weekends Chuckanut 50k. I've run the race 5 times and would have loved to make it six but RVR will be well represented as Erik, Jenn and Tim find their place in one of the largest ultras around. Check out the live feed, here.

Building on this general theme I attempted to chronicle the vagabond nature of adventurers by what they leave behind. In this case, I highlight for you the abandoned fifth wheels of South America. These "homes" have seemingly washed ashore in El Chalten and can be spotted as easily as a Madonna cover on the local radio station. I imagine these structures once helped home owners brave the harsh winter as they completed the unique dwellings that dot this valley.

In the first place.

As seen from the B&B.

Custom cave dweller art.

Keep Chalten Blue.

No Brand.

Special "nation" edition.

Blank Canvas, nice PT Cruiser.

Al Sur

2011-03-16T09:53:00.000-07:00

I bailed out of Reno (via WTC 50k) faster than Butch and Sundance. It proved just as fatal as I arrived in El Chalten, Argentina (or was it Bolivia) some 30+ hours later barely able to stand and ankles as puffy as Erik Skaggs circa August 2009. That is his new nickname, but only because he drinks CIROC.

Bursts of adrenaline mimicked race day, and managed to keep me going as glimpses of the Andes through the clouds materialized over the sage covered plains. Did I mention we had to dodge Emu/Ostrich?, coyote, guanaca, and armadillo on the way! The photograph here is pretty iconic but has become more progressive as the trip from Calafate is now about 2 hours from 6.

Switchin' Lanes

From what I have heard, this place has been reupholstered over the last few years. I have good word it’s to many folks dismay and now resembles something like Crested Butte or an ancient Telluride. Has it lost the appeal or sense of adventure it once shared with only a few gutsy travelers? I’m not so sure, but I think it only takes a few minutes on the trails out of town to get it back.

We immediately hiked up a 2,000ft trail to a mesa overlooking the Rio Fitz Roy and the set of granite spires that have designed this trip. I did a little video testimonial for the Better Than Naked line (blue jacket) that I have been wearing but it proved a little hard after little to no sleep and I couldn’t quite get my lines down, good thing they still love me for my running.

Business or pleasure?

One of the most beautiful sunrises ever.

Monday evening bled into Tuesday with not much sleep, but we were certainly rewarded with great light on Fitz Roy and amazingly Cerro Torre. Tracy has not been felling well, the ills of traveling halfway around the world, but put together some fantastic images with me. We also completed a few video vignettes at several locations and I am amazed at the work these guys compile.

El Chalten below.

The scene.

Monolithic!

The set.

We did finish last night with an amazing dinner complete with climbing wall décor. I can’t say were roughing it yet but the weather is supposed to turn and I need to get back to work, yeah right!

Not just a town in the Arkansas River Valley.

Fuse Burns at TNT Despite Rain

2011-03-11T11:29:00.000-08:00

The 2011 running of the Tar 'n Trail 6 miler is in the books. Just like previous editions, the race proved to be challenging for the 138 runners that braved the elements (and climbs) to help make this 4th annual event another huge success.

The race features a wild ride through some of Ashland's best parks and trails. It begins on the well manicured trails of Lithia Park to the adjacent applause of Ashland Creek before doubling back on the fast and flat tar of Granite Street. Erik Skaggs made his move here and would be hard to catch as the race begins it's ascension over the next couple miles.

Runners as young as 8 and as young as 69 made their way up the infamous quarry stairs to the ditch trail and from there the ditch road and Strawberry-Hald Park. The course undulates once again and tops out at the entrance to the Bird Song Trail where switchbacks abound to dizzy the most experienced trail runner or Jenn Shelton . Legs that have accumulated some 800 feet of climb now brace themselves for the massive descent back to town. It's over a mile of shoe slapping street-work to the finish where the most technical aspects of the race, those sneaky stairs usher in the finishers. Not much thwarted these racers though as it seemed everyone was game for one of the most unique races in the valley.

In the end it all added up for the AWTA as proceeds help to pad trails all over the watershed and town. Thanks again to all of our many volunteers, Great Harvest Bakery, Basement Ink, and AWTA.

All smiles at the registration table.

Leland, did you drop the baton?

The final climb up Hitt road, really.

Soggy scene at the finish.


1st to 4th; Erik, Andy, Bob, and Jayce

Lot's of fun pics can be found here thanks to Shahid.

2011 Tar N Trail Results

2011-03-05T12:03:00.000-08:00

Tar N Trail 6-Miler
3/5/2011
Lithia Park, Ashland, OR.
Rain

Place	Bib	Name	Age	Gender	Time
1	277	Skaggs, Erik	28	M	35:13
2	238	Kelm, Andrew	38	M	38:26
3	310	Julian, Robert	42	M	38:28
4	232	Ives, Jace	27	M	39:04
5	308	Davis, Gerald	20	M	40:13
6	275	Shelton, Jenn	27	F	40:29
7	309	Jackson, Ben	18	M	41:10
8	198	Conley, David	27	M	41:20
9	315	Schaaf, Isaac	17	M	41:30
10	321	Jackson, Sam	18	M	41:39
11	230	Holmes, Brendan	31	M	41:59
12	224	Griffin, Joe	50	M	42:01
13	208	Eisen, Jeremy	40	M	42:13
14	233	Jahn, Corbyn	19	M	42:51
15	335	Tutland, Niko	16	M	42:54
16	270	Saulsbury, Scott	42	M	43:09
17	333	Broom, Nathan	32	M	43:13
18	330	Gutches, Kent	51	M	43:34
19	210	Engstrom, David	45	M	43:40
20	205	Dinger, Eric	37	M	43:48
21	281	Stemple, Camden	15	M	43:49
22	314	Herrera, Navarre	16	M	43:57
23	271	Schweiguth, Melissa	36	F	44:11
24	254	Noyes, Brad	35	M	45:00
25	258	Owens, Dylan	33	M	45:17
26	305	Cain, Rob	57	M	45:50
27	297	Wikander, Chad	38	M	55:40
28	209	Elbert, Chad	39	M	46:11
29	266	Raber, Tyrone	33	M	46:37
30	294	Wallstrom, Pete	38	M	47:01
31	241	Kiesling, Alex	16	F	47:25
32	247	Lowe, Jacob	14	M	47:48
33	186	Asman-Prudell, Cole	14	M	47:48
34	280	Staha, Stephen	31	M	48:01
35	265	Raber, Laura	32	F	48:19
36	302	Meador, Stephen	21	M	48:32
37	284	Stemple, Scott	45	M	48:34
38	278	Slack, Travis	14	M	48:35
39	186	Asman-Prudell, Cole	14	M	48:36
40	332	Sargent, David	30	M	48:57
41	206	Dungan, Chuck	39	M	49:17
42	268	Requejo, Santiago	32	M	49:38
43	306	Bacon, Tucker	21	M	49:55
44	304	Carter, Austin	23	M	49:56
45	228	Hazel, Felicia	47	F	50:06
46	312	Greenblatt, Dana	16	F	50:18
47	322	Anderson, Greg	29	M	50:29
48	248	McPherson, Tim	13	M	50:41
49	244	Kominsky, Steven	28	M	51:02
50	264	Pryor, Karl	47	M	51:07
51	249	Meyer, Elena	47	F	51:37
52	259	Olson, Jeffrey	41	M	51:56
53	283	Stemple, Lela	13	F	52:00
54	219	Gallagher, Mike	30	M	52:11
55	184	Alonzo, Ron	61	M	52:12
56	234	Janssen, Megan	28	F	52:18
57	313	Chaves, Maddie	16	F	52:48
58	329	Ahle, Tom	61	M	53:02
59	212	Fox, Eric	43	M	53:06
60	290	Turner-Gerlach, Bryan	30	M	53:25
61	295	White, David	67	M	54:24
62	219	Gallagher, Mike	30	M	54:24
63	220	Gatz, Casey	28	M	54:49
64	197	Combs, Chris	32	M	55:02
65	331	Brinkley, Beth	47	F	55:03
66	199	Crawford, Joseph	14	M	55:04
67	216	Fralich, John	10	M	55:05
68	187	Barton, Jennifer	39	F	55:06
69	324	Hodge, Robert	50	M	55:08
70	326	Aker, Martha	46	F	55:20
71	267	Rambo, Sidney	37	F	55:22
72	285	Stone, Jeff	55	M	55:23
73	319	Blackwolf, Quinn	14	F	55:43
74	320	Dunagan, Sara	15	F	55:45
75	294	Wallstrom, Pete	38	M	55:53
76	185	Arnold, Randy	47	M	56:09
77	227	Harris, Jim	33	M	56:15
78	303	Hammond, Tom	47	M	56:24
79	336	Prescott, Tom	41	M	56:54
80	242	Kling, Alison	55	F	57:44
81	221	Goldman, Steve	64	M	57:46
82	231	Hurd, Barbara	50	F	57:52
83	250	Micham, Melanie	39	F	58:17
84	191	Bertel, Tony	25	M	58:20
85	188	Barton, Savanna	13	F	58:53
86	215	Fralich, Ian	9	M	59:03
87	255	Noyes, Dave	60	M	59:07
88	261	Parks, Brooke	29	F	59:08
89	291	Voelkel, Emily	26	F	59:16
90	288	Toll, Scott	52	M	59:23
91	337	Pederson, Scott	50	M	59:24
92	236	Johnson, Mike	30	M	59:41
93	311	Parker, Emma Rose	14	F	59:42
94	273	Shanor, Tara	36	F	59:56
95	220	Gatz, Casey	28	M	59:57
96	211	Feinberg, Joanne	50	F	1.00.00
97	235	Johnson, Kimberly	28	F	1.00.10
98	182	Abrams, Arnie	57	M	1.00.16
99	253	Newell, Matt	34	M	1.00.24
100	182	Abrams, Arnie	57	M	1.00.45
101	253	Newell, Matt	34	M	1.00.45
102	217	Fralich, Kristian	8	M	1.00.47
103	279	Staha, Aysha	32	F	1.00.57
104	276	Silverman, Megan	31	F	1.00.58
105	218	Fralich, Zach	11	M	1.00.59
106	213	Fralich, CB	38	M	1.01.00
107	256	Noyes, Monique	35	F	1.01.00
108	225	Hackwell, Danielle	33	F	1.01.09
109	246	Looney, Kayla	16	F	1.01.13
110	327	Clark, Marty	44	M	1.01.48
111	192	Borgatti, Jasmine	33	F	1.03.27
112	263	Perry, Bess	28	F	1.03.28
113	200	Deluca, Mary Ellen	52	F	1.03.36
114	214	Fralich, Erinn	40	M	1.04.08
115	252	Nealy, Johnna J.	27	F	1.04.15
116	325	Hodge, Ruth	49	F	1.04.15
117	300	Zowada, Larry	60	M	1.04.23
118	229	Hickey, Kelsey	25	F	1.05.06
119	269	Rullamps, Daniel	26	M	1.07.46
120	183	Abrams, Mary	58	F	1.08.05
121	260	Owens, Marni	31	F	1.08.53
122	196	Carter, Kathy	45	F	1.08.59
123	282	Stemple, Kara	42	F	1.09.29
124	262	Pech, Margaret	34	F	1.09.54
125	251	Murphy, Linda	61	F	1.09.56
126	239	Keppler, Gene	56	M	1.10.03
127	299	Wolfe, Kathy	60	F	1.10.18
128	189	Bekermeier, David	69	M	1.13.15
129	257	Noyes, Renae	58	F	1.17.13
130	240	Keppler, Sharon	49	F	1.18.46
131	274	Shaskey, Norman	63	M	1.22.15
132	301	Nangle, Cooper	8	M	1.27.23
133	195	Carole, Jana	53	F	1.30.50
134	323	Jamison, Lisa	38	F	1.32.00
135	307	Ali, Nasra	48	M	1.43.21

TAR 'N TRAIL LOOMS

2011-02-17T20:49:00.000-08:00

No, it's not really looming and it's not as dangerous and tough as some of you may have been lead to believe, but it is less than three weeks away. Put it this way, after running TNT, the Shamrock Run will go down like a piece of green cake.

The course will pit runners against some of the best trails and roads Ashland has to offer. Run through Ashland's park jewel, Lithia Park, ascend the steep Granite Street Trail steps and hill to the narrow and windy Ditch Trail. After grabbing some water at the half-way mark ascend further up Hald-Strawberry Park hill and Hitt Road. Then start your downhill run to the finish while taking in the expansive views of the Rogue Valley below.

Forms are available here or RVR. Sign up now to guarantee your technical tee, yes the tee is included in the $20 entry and proceeds benefit the AWTA.

Born to Run?

2011-02-13T09:40:00.000-08:00

The current 24 hour barefoot record resides in southern Oregon, it also belongs to the man pictured above. Unfortunately those credentials didn't translate last weekend at the Rocky Raccoon 100 where he tried in earnest to break the 100 mile barefoot trail record.

I couldn't help but post this gruesome pic to detail just how hard going for such a record is and truth be told he's done his due diligence on this one. When I met Todd 5 years ago at the Mt Ashland Hill Climb he was sporting aqua socks and finishing in the top 5.

Perhaps the most amazing comment I heard while on the course was, "yeah barefoot, but was that guy wearing a kilt?" You never cease to astound Ragsdale.

New shoes for now.

Rocky Ruminations

2011-02-08T23:22:00.000-08:00

I have witnessed two course records go down in the first 36 days of 2011, neither of which belong to me. I would like to think that my presence (running) acted as a catalyst for these unworldly performances but alas that too would be amiss. Never-the-less, both of my times were good, the latter I would even go as far as to say, great. Here's the account of how it happened.

"I'm trying to convince jurker to jump in. he's about halfway there. turning into a pretty solid field. you should come down. w/o any climbs to break everyone things probably won't really separate until 80 miles. guess i'll just have to run 7:30s the whole way..." - Tony Krupicka

I had a hard time not finishing a 100 in 2010. The distance is by far my favorite and it's the one I do well. I ran better than I expected at Western for someone with one leg and then I got the wind blown out of my sails at LT100 when I went off course. I hadn't accumulated much confidence going into 2011 and why should I have, I had found my groove celebrating just about everything unrelated to running and was doing quite well at it. I mean the only thing Tony and I had in common leading up to his question of whether or not I would run a 100 miler on February 5th was a healthy beard so as to better brave the wintry elements.

Lord of the clings.

Yes Scott, I was wearing a jacket for the first 20. Better Than Naked!

The one thing that separates ultra runners from other contributing members of society, and other athletes, is the ability to forgo all reason, logic, judgment, and fear and jump into the arms of certain pain solely on intuition and ambition. They may leave the latter on the doorstep as well.

"Hi Joe,

Scott, Hal and myself are all planning on coming." - Tony

I had a 50k under my belt and two weeks to put in some quality miles to feel more certain about the decision I had just made. Who was I kidding, the race now included over a handful of the best 100 (+) mile runners in the country and here I was trying to recover from an event I didn't even train for. Before I could make any decisions my body made them for me, I was sick. Well, Erik and I decided to run 13 that turned into 20 with almost 4,000 feet of gain on my first day back and that's what I got for it. The taper was in full effect.

"So tell me you're just going to drop at 60, that's all I'm giving you." - Jenn Shelton (RR100 CR holder)

I really had no great expectations other than finding the familiar feel of running for half a day, maybe more, and all the accompanying fixings that have always made me want to do it again. Oh, I was happy to be there with Scott and Tony and Karl etc but I really felt they would all be running away from me and that would make for a long day. Finally it hit me; 24 degrees, dark and everyone lined up behind the timing mat.

As we headed out on the first of five successive 20 mile loops I couldn't help but run hard to try and stay warm. The pace was comfortable and I found myself chatting with my OXFAM Trailwalker teammate Hiroki Ishikawa as we stuttered around the winding trails in pre-dawn light. I then moved up to heckle Scott, "What is this, 24 hour pace?" The group was serious, a little stiff, and all business. Everyone was adjusting to the unlikely circumstance of running with a large pack of legitimate runners for so long, myself included. Luckily a couple runners had made the distinction of getting the party started and a minimal chase had begun.

Tony, myself, and Mike enter Damnation aid station with Jurek gaining.

Tony has a compendium over at Running Times and I won't bore you with all the beta that has surfaced from this unassuming race suffice it to say, it was one for the record books ( Maya. ) I will admit however that the day unfolded almost as easy for me as it wasn't for Tony and certainly less considerable than how it must've been for Ian. I never felt pushed beyond my limits mentally or physically and it afforded me an ability to hang tough all day.

I was more than content to run with Tony as he always seems to pace himself so effortlessly. I had to hold on at times when his surges of adrenaline and fueling didn't quite mesh with mine and I was a little surprised to find myself back in the mix when those 20 second differentials hid him in the pines, but running with someone for almost 93 miles is a lot like trying to match hops on a pogo stick. (get it shelton?)

Of course there were times when I had my fill too.

"Hal, why don't you just stay here this weekend and we'll go on a nice 30-40 miler in the sun." - Erik Skaggs

I'm always getting dragged around on training runs and have come quite used to capitulating. There is always that chance however that the gamble pays off, and over 100 miles you get a lot of opportunities. It doesn't look so much like capitulating then either. On this day, there were two gambles that didn't pay off.

As Ian ran away with the race I couldn't help but wonder if I heeded his early pace, heck I didn't even know who the guy in the black beanie was. Of course I had received emails from Meissner about a guy coming from Bend to Lithia Loop with a legitimate shot and my athlete manager at TNF had just called me earlier in the week to talk about a prospect joining the team.

"He ran very well at Comrades...yes he was 7th at Western." - Lisa Watson/me

That's the chance you take, and kudos to him for going for it. I felt I too was going for it, but for a guy that never ran a flat, fast 100 I had no idea of what was possible. I did know that not going in 2011, with all the talent amassed, it would never get any easier. That's for sure.

So to Tony, I must say that much of my herky jerky running was the realization that I didn't think you wanted to hear all that Cee-Lo Green and Phoenix coming out of my headphones, ok ok Ray J and SISQO. I also didn't know that we were running sub 13:30 pace. I really would've like to catch you on that road and run in closer to 13:16 but that's much easier to say in hindsight. I love how defeating miles 90 - 100 are and they are always defeating.

Fill that bottle as fast as you did for Tarzan.

To Joe P, thanks for an awesome event. I never thought running 5 x 20 miles could be so much fun and be so well supported as well as directed. When I jokingly wrote you about filling in the blanks on the race registration and adding my time as well, you weren't far off. Next time I'll be shooting for my name with that sub-13!

"Never can doubt you, you lover of mothers" "This is probably the race of your life...all downhill from here." That's what we call pulling an elephant out of your....." - Jenn Shelton

All very valid points. For the finer points and three of the fastest 100 mile trail times ever look here.

Rogue Valley Stride and Strut

2011-02-01T13:24:00.000-08:00

Sounds like we're getting ready for a fashion show. After witnessing the styles paraded around the YMCA the last few weeks I believe it's sorely needed. No, this post is about the upcoming 1 and 2 mile fun runs that you can participate in with your favorite pooch, hound, pup or whatever they're calling them these days.

The race starts at 8:30am February 26th where Granite St turns to dirt. There will be prizes for various divisions of owners and dogs and dog and owners. Cost is $15 and all proceeds benefit Friends of the Animal Shelter.

Natalie Portman has been spotted training for the upcoming Stride and Strut.

Finally a race we can enjoy with our four legged (dog) friends. Fill out the form and bring it by Rogue Valley Runners.

I heard a rumor?!?!

Don't be left holding the proverbial poop bag.

Even Julia does it.

Mountain Mist 50k : White Out

2011-01-23T13:28:00.000-08:00

The 16th annual running of the Mountain Mist 50k typified the weather of the past month in northeastern Alabama. Snow fell on Christmas day for the first time in 100 years. Dink Taylor, RD and owner of a certain specialty running store in Huntsville, noted that his kids had missed 12 days of school this winter due to inclement weather, another first. So, it should have been no surprise to find snow falling when we stepped off the plane Thursday night, yeah right.

In 2004 Ian Torrence and I traveled to my grandmothers house in nearby Decatur to help Dink ring in a new era at the biggest trail ultra in the south. Ian came out of the event with a new course record while I bowed out at 20 miles after ripping my ankle a number of times on the unbelievably rugged course. After years of regretting that drop I decided it was time for Carly and I to head back.

Saturday morning started off uneventful as we made our way to Huntsville, a 45 minute drive from Decatur. Somewhere amidst checking the iphone GPS and my last sips of coffee I heard Carly exclaim, "I forgot my shoes!" Now, there are many things you can do without on race day, shoes are not one of them, sorry Chris McDougall. After rallying our Decatur contingent (thanks Ron) and maneuvering around cars stranded by weary winter drivers on the ridges of Monte Sano we made it to the start. Leaving Carly at the car to wait for her Adidas Tempos I headed to the line seconds after the shotgun blast. I made my way down the icy road to the first section of single-track, I had no idea how hard it would be for Carly begin her adventure.
After the throng of runners (some 300 strong) made their way down the trail, Carly was fitted up and ready to follow. Unfortunately her delay kept her from following suit and in her haste she jumped down a trail that marked the completion on the race. Some 15 minutes later, and a good climb, she regained her course and began the painstaking process of passing some 220 participants.

Meanwhile I settled in behind 2009 Mountain Mist champ David Riddle and Stump Jump champ Josh Wheeler. The pace was feverish but welcomed considering the 20 degree temps and firm ground. From what I could remember of the trail, the addition of snow had helped to fill in rocks and packed down leaves that had previously hidden the pitfalls of my last visit. By mile 9, only an hour into the event I knew we were flying and I was way out of my comfort zone. I settled back a ways and felt good, ultimately I wish I had know how hard it would be to pick my way through the blanketed course and find motivation for a less than optimally trained body.

Time moved along well as I awaited the two major climbs of the race, they arrive at mile 24 and 28. They are storied in the history of the event for defeating runners just when the distance gets tough, and they do. Waterline was a frozen waterfall that reminded me of sections of the Promised Land 50k, eh Horty? Onwards I approached the final climb and Josh cam back into sight. He was reeling from the fast pace with David and a deficit of calories but he had a ways to go to hang on with me. Approaching the finish I thought back on my targeted sub 4 time. My solo endeavor, coupled with a hunt and peck style of course finding (and did I mention rocks) really thwarted that as well as any vigor for a strong ending. 4:06 wouldn't be that bad of a time, even for the conditions, but after hearing about a 3:42 from David Riddle I was left looking for words to describe such an effort. Good luck to him as he gets ready for a shot at the 100k Champs in Madison.

Carly made her way back to finish in the ladies top 10, just over 6 hours. Had she not been dealt such circumstances top 5 was not far from her reach on this hard scrabble route. In the end, 274 runners completed the race - the most ever.

Monte Sano State Park

Settling in at mile 6, if you look close you can see..... Georgia.

Waterline, this is no joke. Add an inch of ice and snow to the 2011 edition

The clock tells the tale, no sub 4 today but now I know what it takes.

Tom, Dink and I marvel at the day, course and winning time.

Check out this awesome video from Marcus Farris

Mountain Mist 50k, 2011 from Marcus Farris on Vimeo.

Eugene Marathon Registration Day

2011-01-13T12:32:00.000-08:00

It's coming back around again, and if you want in on 2010 prices this is your weekend. Just a few rules to follow when you stop by Rogue Valley Runners this Saturday (10am-7pm) and Sunday (11am- 5pm).

People can bring in their registration on Sat or Sun, Jan 15-16

$10 off the full and half marathon, $5 off the 5k

Cash or check accepted (make checks payable to Eugene Marathon)

Giveaways to the first 20 people who sign up

Here's the form.

One of the top 10 new marathons and now with the classic finish on Hayward Field. Don't miss this exclusive offer and get started on your training today!

Another Run on the Rogue

2011-01-04T14:16:00.000-08:00

Two of our faithful RVR employees are teaming up with Momentum River Expeditions to host a 3-day raft-supported trail run on the famous Wild and Scenic Rogue River and its tributaries.

Join Erik Skaggs, Jenn Shelton, and Leland Fulton for the weekend of May 20th-22nd and put in nearly 70 miles on these beautiful and remote trails. This could provide a nice training opportunity for those of you fortunate enough to make the cut for Western States.

For more information about the trip check out the link on the Momentum website or contact Leland at fultonl@students.sou.edu.

A Little Varnish for 2010

2011-01-01T10:29:00.000-08:00

And so it was.....

We'll be back on the Rogue Jan. 22nd this year

We headed south in early 2010, ditto for 2011.

Up north in Bellingham and always stunting.

Methuselah?

Neil Olsen on his way to Jacksonville with a pear of followers.

Never seen a pic like this from Western, 7 miles of road?

The one and only John P.

Getting it done, sub 24.

Another S.O.B. record!

These packs traveled the PCT in record time.

Almost 80 and still gets the gals.

A man from Southern Oregon set the 24 hour barefoot record!

CDR, biggest ultra in North America.

Always a ham!

A bunch of bachelors!

I believe this is why there was no time left for dancing.

Found the worlds smallest North Face Store in Peru.

Not many of these were given out in 2010.

Captured; Skaggs with a water bottle on the Lithia Loop course.

It's hard managing these employees.

Some Serious Accomplishments

2010-12-17T12:52:00.000-08:00

Just a small collection of awards from the past 4 ultra parties.

Along with the fantastic skit many of you have viewed, a number of significant achievements were recognized on the evening of the ultra party. Some I have chosen to leave out because, well, you have to be there to fully comprehend the madness.

Gold Toe- Mel Bailey ( for completing all ten running's of the Hagg Lake 50k )

Mel receiving her 10 year plaque

Mr Obscurity - Ben Benjamin ( running the most obscure 100 milers of 2010 )

Mr Boring - Erik Skaggs ( usually pertains to clothing choices, no hospital visits lets him take this one )

Too Damaged to Party - Eric Poole ( and to have kids too )

Longest Way - Tia Boddington ( Traveled to Morocco for the Marathon des Sables )

Bloodiest S.O.B. - Aaron Brian ( That's why they invented nip guards )

I've run everywhere - Shahid Ali ( 10 plus ultras in 2010 )

Under the Radar - Carly Koerner ( sub 24 at Western States )

Breakout award - Carly Koerner ( Western States 2010, literally not figuratively )

Pretty big inside joke, but relevant either way.

Gold Toe - Jenn Shelton ( fastest 10 miler in a monokini, also literally not figuratively )

Pacer of the Year - Jenn Shelton

Dead on Arrival - Neil Olsen ( Dutchman AS at Pine to Palm )

Fastest Family Woman - Dana DuVivier

Fastest Family Man - Neil Olsen

Gold Toe - Erik Skaggs

Biggest Asterisk of the Year - Erik Skaggs ( Flagline 50k ??? )

I wasn't at the finish with everyone but I think this is what it looked like.

Training Log - J.C. Callans

Traveling Beer Mile Trophy - Hal Koerner ( Still undefeated! )

Most Focus Beer Miler - Brad Noyz ( check the video )

Worst Judgment - Heidi Paine

Worst Blister - Annie Crispino-Taylor

Gold Toe - Timothy Olson

The Big Toe Award

Longest 100 Streak - Ben Benjamin

Gold Toe - Karolina Wyszynska ( Skyline 50k, for wins people )

Running during Ramadan - Shahid Ali

Credit Card - Hal Koerner ( nuff said )

Didn't Get lost - Erin Keller

WTF award - Timothy Olson ( victories everywhere )

Virgin S.O.B. - Mike Sotos

Gold Toe - Hal Koerner

Injury of the Year - Darcy Kleiman

Additionally, there were many awards that centered around the first annual running of the Pine to Palm 100 Mile Endurance Run. Likewise, there is video of this circulating on youtube as well, however this announcement is more to let you know that registration is open for the 2011 event. Yes, we will be running it again so ultrasignup.

This is the guy you'll be chasing!

Ultra ROAST 2010

2010-12-14T17:17:00.000-08:00

It's supposed to be a party, which it is, but it's quite apparent the evening has morphed into a roast for some.

I was not alone this year, as JC will attest (that's JC Callans - not the big JC) but this piece will prove that there's less respect when you don't win Western States.

Just to clarify, in the video Rob is trying to convince me (Erik Skaggs, not Kyle) that he is worthy enough to pace me at WS 2011. Tambien, Erik is trying to convince me not to fire him after alluding to my Forrest Gump likeness in parts of South America and the number of photos of me that adorn the store.

Now there were a number of worthy awards this year and I hope this keeps you entertained until they are listed.

Doing the Leg Work

2010-12-03T14:09:00.000-08:00

Alright, alright, alright. Here we are, San Francisco, CA for The North Face Enducance Challenge Championships. If you are reading this blog on Friday then you are way too geeked out on the ultrarunning scene, and there are a lot of you. None however has dropped in more than Bryon Powell over at irunfar.com.

He'll be tracking the race tomorrow as media liason for the TNF and more than likely a number of other running companies. He's done some great pre-race interviews over on his website so check that out as well. Ashland is respresented WELL at this years race and it is going to be arguably the most competitive ultra (male/female) on US soil ever.

I ran on the course a couple of times this week and it's not as fast as previous years, but there have been a few changes or reroutes that may make up for lost time. There's considerable mud out there and a high probability for rain tonight and tomorrow. the pack should stay bunched for 20 miles and then it's anybodies guess. HA!

I however, have been laying low, in the city by the bay - thank you John Denver, trying my best to ignore the hype surrounding the event. An OR photoshoot for The North Face on Tuesday was followed up by an amazing trip to the House of Air in the Presidio. Some acrobatics with the TNF action sports team, had the owner of the place (a former TNF product manager) exclaiming, " these guys don't have to follow the rules," We followed with a sprightly game of dodge ball in which the endurance runner was able to show off some of his skills.

take it easy on the plantar.

Only for the big boys and girls.

Yesterday I headed over to San Leadro, the North Faces world headquarters for an athlete summit of the design variety. I was joined by fellow teammates Jez Bragg, Lizzy Hawker and new addition Rory Bosio. We looked at the Spring and Fall 2012 lines and I must say this company has come a long way in 4 years. After which, I am now gonna taking a page from wikileaks, I was privy to a showing of an 8.5 oz branded trail shoe that will keep me grinning all of 2011.

So now we wait until the alarm rings at 3am tomorrow morning. Off to the headlands and another amazing race, can we wait another 24 to see who the champs are?

Still the man to beat, Uli Steidl

Lost and Found

2010-11-13T19:13:00.000-08:00

So it's times like these when I think some good can actually come of this blog.

A dog, if you could call him that, has gone missing in the greater Ashland area. Last seen in the high hills above Tolman Creek Rd, Ribbit (you may be wondering who would ever name their dog that - it becomes even more wondrous when you're shouting it out at the top of you lungs like a giant frog) was keeping an eye on the mountain house this past Tuesday. Known to stray from his keepers;

he is not known to be a runner so it is quite strange that he would have gone that far. Thus I am asking the RVR community to keep an eye out for him. You may hear his howl or yowl over and over again much like you would at any awards ceremony or in any retail store during business hours.

If you are going to go looking for him and need to call out his name remember who his owner is, know that he only responds to his name in a shriek shrill and to something affectionate like "ribby roo." If that doesn't work, use any obnoxious Adam Sandler voice to suit.

More likely seen with a bandana.

He is known to love eggnog, gingerbread cookies and his mama.

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