Getting After It: My Next 50k Ultramarathon
As the leaves begin to turn and a crisp chill fills the air, I find myself on the cusp of the biggest race of my year. This weekend, I'll be tackling my second 50k ultramarathon, the culmination of 2.5 years of dedicated training and preparation.
The Journey to the Starting Line
My path to this moment has been paved with sweat, determination, and a relentless commitment to improvement:
- Consistent Training: Despite a brief summer hiatus, I've maintained a rigorous training regimen throughout the year.
- Treadmill Mastery: My secret weapon has been my treadmill, capable of a 40-degree incline, allowing me to simulate challenging terrain at any time.
- Trail Adventures: I've logged numerous 15-24 mile runs on the Appalachian Trail, honing my skills on varied and demanding terrain.
- Recovery Focus: This training cycle has seen me prioritize foam rolling and pressure point therapy, crucial for maintaining peak performance.
- Community Engagement: Weekly 5k group runs at the local tap house have kept me connected to the running community and added a social aspect to my training.
The Final Countdown
As race day approaches, I've entered the tapering phase:
- Enjoying some well-earned indulgences in food and drink
- Engaging in light physical activity like chopping firewood
- Relaxing with backyard fires and music
- Ensuring my pantry is well-stocked for post-race recovery
With lodging booked and my truck prepped for the journey, all that remains is to pack my bags. In just two days, I'll embark on this new adventure, ready to test my limits and push beyond them.
Looking Ahead
As I stand on the threshold of this challenge, I'm filled with a mix of excitement and anticipation. This race represents not just a physical feat, but a testament to the power of dedication and perseverance.
To my fellow runners, friends, and supporters: your encouragement means the world. Here's to successfully completing my second 50k ultramarathon!
As they say in the running world, "The hay is in the barn." Now, it's time to reap the rewards of all that hard work.
Wish me luck!
Brian