Yesterday I presented a quick look at one of the ultras I am thinking about running next year. Compared to most of the ultras held in Germany this one is pretty aggressive. From what I read the organizer is a fan of American Trail Ultras and he tried to come up with something equally challenging. It looks like he did his homework!
The 80K/50M run that I did this year was kid’s play in comparison! If I want to complete this event before the 16 hour cut-off I am going to have to upgrade the quality of my training. Not easy in our hill-challenged region (i.e. flatlands). Although I already do my long runs on the hilliest area around here, I know I need to incorporate more hills, hill repeats and a good upper body core training. I probably should shed those last 12 pounds that I want to lose to - no sense dragging them up and down the mountains.
But of course my first obstacle is my wife – she needs to be in agreement. If it doesn’t work for her then I am fighting a battle that makes the mountain run look easy. I’m going to wait until the weather cools down some before I spring any new plans on her.
I found a couple pictures on the Internet from the Chiemgauer 100K race from 2005. As you can see it is a beautiful area and quite a challenging course (from my perspective). If you think the hills look a lot like ski slopes that is because they are, the Chiemsee region is a very popular ski region in Germany!
What do you do with a ski slope in the summer time? You guessed it, 'run it up and over'!
If I were in any position to call you mad, I would do so. But I'm not, so I won't.
I say do lots of chores around the house before you spring this on the wife.
But I also say, "Go for it!"
It's exciting!!!
Beautiful pictures. That does look challenging, but fun!
And thanks for stopping by!
Doing a serious wieght training will help you also to lose those extra pounds, (seems like a note to myself) That will be the next challenge, combining them again.
ok, jack...so, we have a little time. let's all brainstorm on how we can help your wife get on board with this race. it looks too good to miss! and, i know you want this challenge...hmmmmmmmmm.
Your pictures always make me homesick, Jack! Good luck talking your wife into the race. It sounds like something you really want to do!
Jack, Let's see...my husband does things like this: researches the area, finds all the things I'd like to do or see, shows them all to me, then mentions the race. Of course, I'm totally on to him after so many marathons and ultras, so he doesn't do it too often now. When he wanted to run the Tahoe Triple, he asked if I'd like to go to Reno to visit some old friends, then oh-so-casually, mentions the Triple. Too funny!
Looks beautiful!
gorgeous pics. how can you sell your wife on it? any nice villages or shopping nearby? luxurious spa where she can pamper herself while you're out running???