"It amazed me that my times decreased as I got older."
My 60th Birthday Present
A week before my 60th birthday I learned that I was accepted into the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run. My emotions were elation, then panic, then dread, and finally commitment to complete my first 100 mile event.
Training is Not Just About Logging Miles
Up to this point, my understanding of training was to determine the number of miles I needed to run each week to complete the next ultra, set a schedule that increased mileage by 10% each week, do strength training when possible, run the race and hope for the best. This was all about to change. Through a running friend and via the computer and telephone I met Lisa. Together we reviewed my history, strengths and weaknesses, and goals. At first, my weekly workouts seemed mild and included exercise and training that I had never tried before. As time went, by the workouts increased in variety and intensity. I found that I was getting in excellent shape without the usual problems of overtraining e.g. illness, injury and boredom. The workouts were both challenging and interesting. Ultras leading up to WS100 went well; my times were good and there were no injuries.
Advice at the Races
I finally met Lisa and Jay in person at Squaw Valley before the event. The training continued with last minute instructions, strategy, nutrition, drop bags, aid station protocol, etc. Lisa never stops coaching, even during the run. In Auburn, I crossed the finish line with little time to spare. The joy of finishing is indescribable, you have to live it. In the recovery area I reflected on the invaluable assistance provided by my wife, Marie and crew, the excellent training and preparation Lisa provided, the initial emotions I experienced when I learned I would be in the WS100, and the many wonderful people I had met along the way.
Long Term Training with Lisa
Lisa’s training didn’t stop there; she helped me through the recovery phase and continued to help me through WS100 the following year, and WS100 and Cascade Crest Classic 100 the year after that. It amazed me that my times decreased as I got older. Lisa has been able to train me properly in order to improve my performance, complete difficult events, have more enjoyment on the trails; all without crossing that fine line that leads to injury, time lost, the wheels falling off, and disappointment.
Training with Lisa has made the future look bright. I can look forward to continuing in a sport that I really enjoy.
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