Training has been clicking along for my 100 mile race in April. Yes, I’m still doing this! It’s getting closer but I’m just taking it one day at a time. I’ve had a couple of encouraging tune up races that have built up my confidence.

On January 5th I ran a 50K trail race. I’d done that race two other times and I enjoyed it just as much the third time. It was at Sweetwater Creek State Park in Lithia Springs, GA. There are so many things to like on this trail: varied terrain, peaceful streams, sweet single track and wooden stairs that take you high above the roaring creek. The creek was more like a river this year due to recent rains.

I finished in just under 8 hours and so accomplished my goal which was just to log a good amount of time on my feet. That is the main goal in training for an ultramarathon, especially a 100 miler. You need to get used to being on your feet for a long time.

A friend joined me for the third of six five mile loops which helped to keep me mentally strong. That’s another big piece of training: the mental game. Moving forward for hours on end is mentally draining, so the more ways to distract yourself the better.

Another running friend surprised me by showing up at the finish to congratulate me. I love my running friends! I finished strong enough to think I could even do another loop, or even two!

Next on the calendar was a 50 mile race, the longest distance I’ve ever gone. I’ll save that for the next post.