tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55367168747247828512024-02-19T00:32:29.763-08:00Run for FunWasatch Speedgoat Mountain Racing TeamMonica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-42652721961721106932011-07-01T07:11:00.000-07:002011-07-01T08:43:58.508-07:00FINALLY!!!! Western States 2011<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPQM1GQcaiWNLCYqVXY_ciHXSrG2-j6k-df0a2NBCCaTCVfKif-jI-6WUIX0lt6UQGvW5tpKhEvSzOVd2s45KATpoDeFJEfRg2SSW7Pmqd1wFb6hBhyphenhyphen1yS_CnMuhQgJuPi6LvQSFzIqHfm/s1600/135957082.gDJitdIj.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPQM1GQcaiWNLCYqVXY_ciHXSrG2-j6k-df0a2NBCCaTCVfKif-jI-6WUIX0lt6UQGvW5tpKhEvSzOVd2s45KATpoDeFJEfRg2SSW7Pmqd1wFb6hBhyphenhyphen1yS_CnMuhQgJuPi6LvQSFzIqHfm/s400/135957082.gDJitdIj.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624386556178500978" /></a><br />Photo by <a href="http://www.pbase.com/gtach">Glenn Tachiyama </a>(Super extraordinary Photo-Guy)<br /><br />I am still having a hard time with actually being done with <a href="http://ws100.com/home.html">WS</a>. I first entered the lottery in 2007 after going to a Western States training camp with Scott Jurek. When I went to the camp I just thought it would be a fun few days away running in the Sierras, eating good food, and meeting new people. I never thought I would want to run a 100 mile trail race. Well, that is what happened after spending 4 days talking about and running the WS trails. That year I decided I would try and get in by placing in the top 3 at one of the Montrail Ultra Cup races. I trained hard and ran American River 50 mile. 4th place. I entered the lottery and was a loser. The next year I tried again at Mountain Masochist 50 mile. 4th place again, lottery loser again. The only good thing about being a two time loser was I was guaranteed a spot for 2009. 2009 came and the race was canceled due to fires. The two time lottery losers were split and half were eligible for the 2010 race and half for 2011. I was finally given a spot. 2011 was my year! With all the frustration of waiting so long to get in I think it all worked out for the best. I was able to run 2 hundred mile runs (Cascade Crest and Tahoe Rim Trail) and I paced Nikki Kimbell in 2010 on the last 38 miles of the WS course. <br /><br />Western States is unlike any of the other 100's I have run. There is A LOT of hype. They make you feel like a rock star. It is enough to make this girl extremely nervous. I was so happy when Saturday finally came and I was able to just get going! The course had snow the first 38 miles. There were some spots where we were sliding down hills on our butts because it was easier and faster than running. I was extremely slow on this part but I think it was good because it encouraged me to not waste too much energy on the beginning. Because of all the snow the first time we could see our crews was 55 miles. This was after climbing from Squaw Valley, running through snow, running in the heat of the canyons, and climbing some steep peaks. The climb up Devils Thumb about killed me. I came into Michigan Bluff feeling nauseated and plain old spent. It was such a perk to see Kristjan and Riley. They gave me some water mixed with maca, a Vespa, and a quick hug and I was on my way. My next stop was Foresthill at 62 miles where I could pick up Shawna and finally have some company. I was ready to visit with someone and be done with the i-pod. By this point the music was really bugging me! Kristjan helped me change my wet, dirty socks and shoes and lubed up my feet (now that is true love) and Shawna and I were off for the last 38 miles. We kept a pretty good pace mostly running and power hiking any inclines. She kept me entertained and updated with what I would need to run to make it to Auburn under 24 hours. I told her I really didn't care if I was under 24 but she would not accept that and she kept reminding me that although it hurt pretty bad at the time I would be much happier if I gave it my all and did what I set out to do. It started getting dark as we were heading down to the river (77 miles). I was wishing it was a year when we could walk across the river instead of ride boats because that cold water was needed on my aching legs! We made the river crossing and saw Kristjan and Riley again as we were getting out of the boat. They fed me and hiked up the hill with us with their big packs of gear. Shawna and I ran the last 20 miles through the night telling stories, listening to rattlesnakes, dealing with upset stomach, racing the clock. Shawna kept encouraging me to run when all I wanted to do was walk. We made it to Placer High School with 6 minutes to spare! My final time was<a href="http://www.WS100.com/results11div.htm"> 23 hours 54 minutes</a>. She was right. The feeling of accomplishment was worth the pain and the 5 year wait made me appreciate it all the more.Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-56808360423561301652011-06-06T16:54:00.000-07:002011-06-06T17:08:05.436-07:00Western Freakin States TimeEvery race and training run I have done since March has been in preparation for June 25th. I am now starting to taper (sort of) and hope that all will go as planned. It has been a long time coming getting into this race that really is not even a race I would normally choose. I hate downhill running. Don't do well in heat. Elevation is a killer for me. But......it's WESTERN STATES!!! Something about it. I am feeling ready. I have been doing Bikram Yoga to get used to the heat. I have raced marathons to 100k the past several months and even managed to pull off a couple wins. Now I just need to stay healthy and calm!Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-63618918703611328582011-02-17T18:05:00.000-08:002011-02-17T19:21:13.784-08:00Orcas 50k<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhn8LQ4wt-plr6Mxw9MdZdcPlm2LibIVfRcMLLhOiKzcit38U55137bu5bkADBKUaKXKfdFEcff8wmrREu6dDcbf_35hE0dSc2Jcdje9whpB8SHxUKcWW-4uY9qNMIB-LqZdUmwpp59MCQ/s1600/IMG_1900.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhn8LQ4wt-plr6Mxw9MdZdcPlm2LibIVfRcMLLhOiKzcit38U55137bu5bkADBKUaKXKfdFEcff8wmrREu6dDcbf_35hE0dSc2Jcdje9whpB8SHxUKcWW-4uY9qNMIB-LqZdUmwpp59MCQ/s400/IMG_1900.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574864405039266098" /></a><br /><br />It has been two weeks since Orcas 50k and I am off on a plane tomorrow morning to Austin for a marathon so I suppose it is time to do a little Orcas recap! James knows how to put on a race!! It actually feels more like a party. Good friends, beautiful trails, delicious food and drinks, and a few little hills thrown in just for the heck of it! I was worried this 50k would be a suffer fest considering I have not felt like myself ever since Colorado in August. I have been dealing with shortness of breath even running with very little effort. I also started a new job in January so my training has not been up to par. Well, it ended up working out well. I took it easy and considered it would be a good run to begin my WS training. I certainly felt my lungs working, especially on the power line trail but it was a normal working. Not a wheezing, feel like I am going to die, working. The day was beautiful (check out <a href="http://www.pbase.com/gtach/orcas11">Glenn's photos</a>) and it felt like home reconnecting with my trail running buddies. My time was way slower than in years past but that is what my plan was. <a href="http://orcasisland50k.blogspot.com/">Results</a> here. If you are ever looking for a race with views from Canada to Rainier, 8000 some feet of elevation gain, and great amenities check out this run! It is a perfect season opener!Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-2895786248869404852010-09-19T12:12:00.000-07:002010-09-19T12:59:21.720-07:00Transrockies 117 mile stage race<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGJCU6CqMDDZnQVQKFS3_pRTR49KtjyiyCzN-6T8Z-Jx-wnDyGFZRdov9Il49JjCCJIDYLsAxfQuuMYsECaJFM_gMYXao_r4__jrgjYCRC0WsXx_Scg7RbNAjB6LZtOVDlFeTuL_jyeCWN/s1600/IMG_0253.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGJCU6CqMDDZnQVQKFS3_pRTR49KtjyiyCzN-6T8Z-Jx-wnDyGFZRdov9Il49JjCCJIDYLsAxfQuuMYsECaJFM_gMYXao_r4__jrgjYCRC0WsXx_Scg7RbNAjB6LZtOVDlFeTuL_jyeCWN/s320/IMG_0253.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518715091293323698" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizQzBIyXVrJ4BsmZlHzO5W6H3hBl9hxFWHhXlJM20LMbQB078Cwa6shz2ql7LptXLy-sg3KzcXU8usDj8F99vCPlqUr2SvjNqKbDWJ0dGOonPztLoVuMHkuxpurAEyNldRJDso9A7Ktblf/s1600/IMG_0231.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizQzBIyXVrJ4BsmZlHzO5W6H3hBl9hxFWHhXlJM20LMbQB078Cwa6shz2ql7LptXLy-sg3KzcXU8usDj8F99vCPlqUr2SvjNqKbDWJ0dGOonPztLoVuMHkuxpurAEyNldRJDso9A7Ktblf/s320/IMG_0231.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518715079401272514" /></a><br />It is hard to believe that <a href="http://transrockies.com/transrockiesrun/news/">Transrockies</a> is only on its fourth year. The Gortex crew, staff, and volunteers were incredible. Runners were spoiled rotten with good food, hot showers, massage, entertainment, tent set up, and gear loading EVERY DAY! When I first heard about Transrockies last year I did not think it would be a race I would want to run. I like racing for one day...maybe even over one day in a hundred mile race...but 6 days of racing at altitude and sleeping in tents was a little scary. When Nikki called and asked if I wanted to partner up with her and race the 2010 edition I said yes without hesitation. After I hung up I wondered what the heck I was thinking! One of the rules with this race is you run with your teammate and never let more than two minutes get between you. Me running 20ish miles a day in the mountains with an average elevation of 10000 feet with Nikki Kimball? Oh my. I was in for it! What ended up happening was we had a great time! I SUFFERED with headaches, what felt like asthma, nausea, and muscles that just plain old felt like they were refusing to move. It took me two weeks at sea level to get rid of the headache. But even with all that I had a supportive partner, great times at what felt like summer camp for grown ups, and six nights in a row on the podium! We won our division, came home with some awesome swag, and donated our prize money to <a href="http://www.starfishcharity.org/home.aspx?id_content=1">Starfish</a>. I was supposed to be running <a href="http://www.roguevalleyrunners.com/P2P100/raceinfo.html">Pine to Palm</a> this weekend but decided to listen to the screaming my body was doing and give it a rest. As I sit here with a warm mug of tea after an easy trail run, my body is recovering and I am happy with my decision.Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-74216758547269879462010-08-09T16:22:00.000-07:002010-08-09T17:11:42.155-07:00Speedgoat 50k<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs8Rw_-U6l7_A3o2w6FedZfNNeo2VfgC4PxPlMopJZHD98t7SZC21aJSOarbG-tbtctmrX3mriq-gWikUG1JXpFbA68987Xr11IfZwa-_H1iw1I85HfM7YxbqsRr_YpL-NzBL0l8DP9nyQ/s1600/IMG_0157.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs8Rw_-U6l7_A3o2w6FedZfNNeo2VfgC4PxPlMopJZHD98t7SZC21aJSOarbG-tbtctmrX3mriq-gWikUG1JXpFbA68987Xr11IfZwa-_H1iw1I85HfM7YxbqsRr_YpL-NzBL0l8DP9nyQ/s320/IMG_0157.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503565857565166194" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuY8d2nOQDZxjuzR1_qcmDTfCXqLZJjb1KqX8vWN1KYaeMJ0jRsZXB5Fho_tDyASn3WEqkVNvkVJld2BtQUFRTzl9_v8LLm0DXFNUwvGBT2vgwaz36HXgxQQMukrw6s1-grS-HTIkp5xlv/s1600/IMG_0160.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuY8d2nOQDZxjuzR1_qcmDTfCXqLZJjb1KqX8vWN1KYaeMJ0jRsZXB5Fho_tDyASn3WEqkVNvkVJld2BtQUFRTzl9_v8LLm0DXFNUwvGBT2vgwaz36HXgxQQMukrw6s1-grS-HTIkp5xlv/s320/IMG_0160.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503565823306051138" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOm63nPjFK-5jomPzjm_WQ3zj3tcn-F3JUykHAquuqKXoucumqvRYine5pHjwXnpN-I351JdxuKbduhcmVAaHrle6PGFLzZgXe6xIh_7Q8y8cRQCDK-QaXoYJpOqz7VVS7sa-SxT4ZekAu/s1600/IMG_0171.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOm63nPjFK-5jomPzjm_WQ3zj3tcn-F3JUykHAquuqKXoucumqvRYine5pHjwXnpN-I351JdxuKbduhcmVAaHrle6PGFLzZgXe6xIh_7Q8y8cRQCDK-QaXoYJpOqz7VVS7sa-SxT4ZekAu/s320/IMG_0171.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503565813164586274" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjc3Vapfsfrk1JTFdEzSy3dDhmcuQgMv5pb055frvWduGytktJ0LZh1Rvmq2u-lDUJmpkFgii-9-7ePNVSPvFaTqlJ-UeGL1KwaDuAPMXbw8N4VOrtCAYmkW3A_sXsTRlDc74rz1N3iC6w/s1600/IMG_0161.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjc3Vapfsfrk1JTFdEzSy3dDhmcuQgMv5pb055frvWduGytktJ0LZh1Rvmq2u-lDUJmpkFgii-9-7ePNVSPvFaTqlJ-UeGL1KwaDuAPMXbw8N4VOrtCAYmkW3A_sXsTRlDc74rz1N3iC6w/s320/IMG_0161.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503565801850087026" /></a><br />The first word that comes to mind is HARD!!! Wow, what an incredible challenge. The altitude (between 7000 and 12000 ft.), the climbing (12000 ft.), the descending (another 12000 ft.), and the heat got me. It was completely worth it though. My son Riley came to this race which meant so much to me. He had never been to one of my races before and to see his face throughout the day at aid stations was the best. He is now wanting to return to Snowbird to go snowboarding for his 16th birthday in January. I heard from many people that I would be cursing Karl's name throughout this race. I also heard that even the downhills were hard. All true. The cursing didn't start until about mile 16 but by then I did think of some really mean names to call him. It took me forever to finish this run. Seriously....I looked at my watch with 10 miles to go and was made painfully aware that I had run 50 milers faster than this little 50k. All that difficultly made it that much more fun and made me appreciate that beer at the finish line and the popsicles at Roch's aid station even more! Karl and Scott really do put on a great race and I would go back in a second to do it again. Hopefully being out there at altitude gave me a little preparation for my next big adventure. TRANSROCKIES!!!Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-27953413482725866832010-06-29T09:20:00.000-07:002010-07-01T14:22:10.204-07:00Pacing WS100 GOOD JOB NIKKI!!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipR6wdr-d_rbVdaxPhcr9EtJk-eATIgymRyVkiqxqiAEmyt1DRabzgrfSFCp9sZ6pi7gQjgrXlGzS50E2-Fuw4JhKnR_kMT3IaQWYdVav1Wx-7tjmifBOnezQ15K-_GRhtgGo605FUaQpl/s1600/IMG_0090.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipR6wdr-d_rbVdaxPhcr9EtJk-eATIgymRyVkiqxqiAEmyt1DRabzgrfSFCp9sZ6pi7gQjgrXlGzS50E2-Fuw4JhKnR_kMT3IaQWYdVav1Wx-7tjmifBOnezQ15K-_GRhtgGo605FUaQpl/s320/IMG_0090.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488236881999402530" /></a><br />I have been wanting to run States since I started running ultras and my luck with the lottery and my racing performance at Montrail Cup races have not been good. Now I realize that the way things happened was all meant to be! I have gained experience in longer races and I was able to get out on the last 38 miles of the course with one of the best runners out there! Pacing Nikki was such a phenomenal experience. That girl works so hard and runs an incredibly smart race. She ended up placing 3rd in a stacked field of women. We had an awesome weekend visiting with friends and running together. Western States, in my opinion, is not the best, most beautiful, or toughest 100 out there but it is a race full of history that I am excited to run. I'm ready to go back next year and check that one off my list!Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-29773884822917980842010-04-20T15:03:00.000-07:002010-04-20T15:55:46.421-07:00American River 50 Mile<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYbj0gPV3gTOZlAGAFeprUj_6s6BihHkS_FzZKud87yHfS8px5K3XxqznEpdE15oqtayWm8ix2tdW0Eg1UBW7Y7lVMqPqWxprkjwBa8bFB9lpKxIdTbM4CohGcI1EoDqb_qz7TQLuNxZAA/s1600/IMG_0551.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYbj0gPV3gTOZlAGAFeprUj_6s6BihHkS_FzZKud87yHfS8px5K3XxqznEpdE15oqtayWm8ix2tdW0Eg1UBW7Y7lVMqPqWxprkjwBa8bFB9lpKxIdTbM4CohGcI1EoDqb_qz7TQLuNxZAA/s320/IMG_0551.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462349296486438322" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBWlz7eG6cszpgOZo6BW1ZbrAw5EAgUL2zSH3DyocdNDMgrQpfNqBH40T1bgA8SyV8WK5rqgvAVLoHzaTtaKKGsAdwvf_ZP-hCGGALL7TGpB1aMXXqdP1sLhGRLYg9qW9BI4ikWaLxtp8R/s1600/23801_394429592656_688282656_4273586_486594_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBWlz7eG6cszpgOZo6BW1ZbrAw5EAgUL2zSH3DyocdNDMgrQpfNqBH40T1bgA8SyV8WK5rqgvAVLoHzaTtaKKGsAdwvf_ZP-hCGGALL7TGpB1aMXXqdP1sLhGRLYg9qW9BI4ikWaLxtp8R/s320/23801_394429592656_688282656_4273586_486594_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462349140717683810" /></a><br />It has taken me over a week to feel like I can write about this race in a lucid manner. It really crushed me mentally. I came out of Buffalo Run two weeks ago feeling good and wanting to run a fast AR. I had myself convinced that all that rest from the broken foot would be beneficial and I could run hard and competitively. Well, that worked for the first half. I came through the marathon in 3:27 and thought I would be able to reach my goal of sub 7:15. Then I bonked. Big time. I had run this race two times before and wore road shoes both times. This year I thought it would be better to wear trail shoes for the added support. By 20 miles I had blisters in the oddest places. I don't know if it was the shoes or the fact that my gait has changed so much since the break. I constantly remind myself not to overcompensate to protect the foot but I catch myself doing some pretty strange maneuvers. I ran the second half with the worst attitude ever. It was this beautiful day and I was doing what I love but the thoughts that kept going through my head were "my feet hurt", "I'm so tired", "got passed again #$%@", "stupid poison oak", "I'm never doing this run again", "blah, blah, blah". What I have figured out in this passed week is I need to cut myself some slack. It has only been 5 months since the break, I just returned to running in February, and I raced 2 weeks prior to AR. I need to appreciate that for crying out loud...I JUST RAN 50 MILES and although it was almost 30 minutes slower than last year, <a href="http://www.capitalroadrace.com/results/2010_AR50_WOMENOVL.HTM ">(results)</a> I finished and I learned some valuable lessons. <br /><br />1. wear shoes I am used to and lube up!<br />2. don't ignore <a href="http://www.howardnippert.com">Howard</a> and think he is being too easy on you<br />3. quit the grumpy self talk<br />4. eat more<br />5. don't start too fast <br />6. remember this is about having fun and surrounding myself with great people not the time on the clock<br /><br />Now I have over a month to train for Blue Canyon 100k and then the biggest event of the year. My daughter's graduation!Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-33134677303389417572010-03-31T14:57:00.000-07:002010-03-31T15:29:43.676-07:00Running with the buffalo<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLXGFVF9ez_HbGGlcGg0qqIIGA9Yw55oBmgnhW36G5qOoKexp05DrB44BaBP6A64vKKGOEwAAs107ejeMiFQ9poKOBCoIaFfdyp6UBAAFpP9gQv3bkQp2vS7Zww5Bs_qlV0q8SfGG74Rxn/s1600/26410_1349655773939_1007684444_31064008_2392902_s.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 130px; height: 97px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLXGFVF9ez_HbGGlcGg0qqIIGA9Yw55oBmgnhW36G5qOoKexp05DrB44BaBP6A64vKKGOEwAAs107ejeMiFQ9poKOBCoIaFfdyp6UBAAFpP9gQv3bkQp2vS7Zww5Bs_qlV0q8SfGG74Rxn/s320/26410_1349655773939_1007684444_31064008_2392902_s.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454928386816502818" /></a><br />Last summer at Tahoe Rim Trail 100 fellow teammate Jim Skaggs encouraged me to come to Utah for his friendly little race on an island on Salt Lake. He said it would be a lot of fun and he would have home brew at the finish for us. How could I refuse! I signed up for the 50 mile but decided to run the 50k since I was just coming back from my broken foot. Antelope Island is a State Park that is a drive on island full of buffalo. It is quite hilly and full of trails with exceptional views of the lake and the Wasatch Mountains. When I arrived Friday it was snowing and windy. I went out to the island to explore and see what I was getting myself into. I got about a mile into my run and 2 buffalo were on the trail staring me down. I figured it would be a good idea to turn around and face them the next day with 600 or so other runners out on the trails. By Saturday we had a beautiful clear day. The 50k route started with a good climb followed by rolling to flat terrain, another climb, downhill, another climb and then flat and down to the end where we did it all one more time. I had a great time hanging out with Nikki and Michelle pre-race and Speedgoats Dave, Tom, Cory and Jim post race. Jim did a great job directing this race. It was a fantastic early season, get back in the groove run. I ended up 2nd girl (<a href="http://strideracing.com/2010/march/2010_BUFFALORUN50K_OVERALL_GENDER.HTM">results here</a>). I felt super confident on the rocky downhills in my<a href="http://www.sportiva.com/products/prod/536"> La Sportiva</a> Wildcats. I stayed hydrated with <a href="http://www.nuun.com">nuun</a> and wore my new gear from <a href="http://www.greenlayersports.com/">Green Layer</a>. Great day, wonderful friends and awesome gear!Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-39691221079201666892010-02-19T12:21:00.000-08:002010-02-20T16:49:11.311-08:00Woolley Trail Fun RunKristjan, Emma, and I moved to Sedro Woolley when I was pregnant with Riley. It was a difficult move for me. Although I was all for making this move I missed Seattle and my network of friends I had there. Once Riley was born I made the decision to start running and maybe, someday run a marathon. I met two of my best friends during that time spending many miles sharing our secrets and dreams. There was this new Rails to Trails trail that started in Sedro- Woolley and went 26 miles to Concrete. It was a nice, dirt packed, flat trail along the Skagit River. I did a lot of my training on that trail. There were property owners along the trail who were unhappy to have people using it. They were very vocal with their opinions concerning runners and bikers passing their homes. Some even posted big signs in their yards expressing their disgust with this new trail. I tried to ignore the signs and just quietly pass by. I would push Emma and Riley in a big Burley bike trailer with stroller attachments (no cool jogger strollers back then) and I would pick up every piece of litter I saw. It was little but I hoped to prove the nay-sayers wrong and show them that this trail would be a great addition to the community, not a hinderance. Well, time went by, my kids are now teenagers, Kristjan, my friends and I have grown up together, and Kristjan and I have moved to another city. Here in Anacortes we have over 50 miles of trails. The community is proud of and supports our forestlands wholeheartedly. We also have a trail called the Tommy Thompson. This is another Rails to Trails paved trail that starts in town and then goes over the water off the island. Several months ago somebody set the trestle on fire. I don't know why this was done and this arsonist has not been found. I do know that this trail was used by young and old alike. Bikers, walkers, joggers, runners. We all shared and took care of this asset to our city. Now we are in the process of raising money to fix the trestle. One of the fundraisers was a fun run today back on the trail I haven't run since living in Sedro- Woolley ten years ago. I decided to run the marathon distance (I hope you are not reading this Howard). I was given the ok to start running again last week. The foot looks good and I have been slowly trying to get my groove back. I was not planning on doing this kind of distance for a while (I removed my name from Way Too Cool and Miwok) but I just couldn't resist. It was such a good cause and it felt right. About 50 people showed up which means around $800 will be donated to the rebuilding of the trestle. It was a beautiful, sunny day and a wonderful start to my return to training.Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-63316710484849448402010-01-08T13:22:00.000-08:002010-01-08T13:43:12.852-08:00itty, bitty, bone....BIG bummerI'm trying hard not to let this broken metatarsal influence my mood but unfortunately it is affecting my attitude greatly. I miss my alone time in the woods. I miss running with friends. I miss that feeling post-run when I feel every muscle telling me they are tired yet happy. I miss everything about it. Six weeks into recovery it is feeling like I will never be ready to race. My latest X-rays show moderate healing but they also show displacement which means surgery may need to happen if that displacement starts causing other problems like neuromas or other body mechanic issues. Time will tell. In the meantime I am resting, doing pilates, eating well, and working out on the eliptical. I am just doing my best to treat that foot well so I can get out there soon. So, here is my plea...I promise to listen to my body from now on and not ignore aches and pains. I have learned the hard way that they are there for a reason and I need to respect them. I have also learned how important running is to me. It is so much more than the competition of racing or the camaraderie with friends who have similar interests. It is me. It is when I feel most alive. It helps me be a better mom and wife because it is my way of taking care of myself.<br /><br />Here is what I am thinking for 2010....<br /><br />Way Too Cool 50k<br />American River 50 mile<br />Miwok 100k<br />sent app in for Hardrock<br />Speedgoat 50k<br />Pine to Palm 100<br /><br />Come on foot!!!!Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-14653225711123298942009-12-04T14:15:00.001-08:002009-12-04T14:31:38.381-08:00Red Rock 40<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdY3M9ZFBd69ElwOjStJgqqUhw81qlMcmpAgiDh0WUWfQcuDK_BJ7Od73QUfn2jvuaHdVfHR-4w4wfcLA4QQ3_gdjux8Cl7secOhmj-C6_gUUJRqUqxtGuuK3rETYEYkKQW3ny54d4SDH7/s1600-h/12132_214389861634_750501634_3955908_1371766_s.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 88px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdY3M9ZFBd69ElwOjStJgqqUhw81qlMcmpAgiDh0WUWfQcuDK_BJ7Od73QUfn2jvuaHdVfHR-4w4wfcLA4QQ3_gdjux8Cl7secOhmj-C6_gUUJRqUqxtGuuK3rETYEYkKQW3ny54d4SDH7/s320/12132_214389861634_750501634_3955908_1371766_s.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411508216090032082" /></a><br /><br />I went to this run knowing that I was out to have a fun day, burn some post Thanksgiving calories, and not race. It was just one week post JFK and I was still feeling pretty worn out. Red Rock is a substitute for The Santa Barbara Nine Trail Run. Luis (race director extraordinaire) had warned us this was one tough run. Lots of climbing and lots of rocks. Sounded good to me! About 3 miles in I felt a sharp pain on the top of my foot. I thought it might just be a tight tendon and it would work itself out. Well, it didn't and about an hour later I figured it was a stress fracture. I decided I would drop at the turnaround (20 miles). At least I got to see the whole course since it was an out and back! I got a ride back to the start from Stu Sherman (thank you, thank you) and met up with Kristjan back at the hotel. My foot was hurting pretty bad but we managed to have a great weekend in Santa Barbara soaking up the sun. When I got home Tuesday I went and had an x-ray. The doc said it was probably an old as in 3-4 month old stress fracture that had decided to really break deep at the race. Looking back I have been having foot pain for quite a while but always attributed it to something else and never got it checked out. Now I am in a cast for 6-8 weeks. No fun but lesson learned. I guess I will be well rested for Spring!Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-19888520527074095852009-12-04T13:45:00.000-08:002009-12-04T14:13:39.762-08:00JFK 50<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_NWZL-4PaUEV_CeW-ePlwxKBuyQj7Bsa8bRLf-4pc8IgY-9Jb-2-JZMe74DNiTrUM3rAu0u29jkSLu83-e8SUC1IjYxKo0JNGDWI6CdnCbJdGLMSbLhi1pNfvURiSsE04_j1bUSYUDySZ/s1600-h/16469_1131205051840_1578663627_30290325_1196210_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_NWZL-4PaUEV_CeW-ePlwxKBuyQj7Bsa8bRLf-4pc8IgY-9Jb-2-JZMe74DNiTrUM3rAu0u29jkSLu83-e8SUC1IjYxKo0JNGDWI6CdnCbJdGLMSbLhi1pNfvURiSsE04_j1bUSYUDySZ/s320/16469_1131205051840_1578663627_30290325_1196210_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411507127876271666" /></a><br />I flew out to Maryland a few weeks ago to run the biggest ultra in the U.S. I had decided to run JFK while in California last April running American River 50. Annette said she was going to run it so I thought it would be fun to meet up with her for another adventure in seven months. I also knew that my friend Devon would be there and Meghan (who I met at Where's Waldo) too! It would be another great Girl's weekend! I arrived Thursday around midnight and was told my luggage did not make it. I had a minor freak out because my shoes, orthotics, EVERYTHING was in that bag. I stayed that night near the Baltimore airport with the hope my bag would arrive in the morning. It did and Saturday I was off to Hagerstown. Devon told me where a good little natural foods store was so I stocked up on goodies, picked up my race bag, visited with Annette and met Devon and Meghan for dinner. The next morning I was up dark and early to get to the race start. This race was very similar to American River except the climbing and trail section are in the beginning of the run instead of the end. The trail section was different than trails I am used to in Washington. It had big rocks covered with leaves. I managed to twist my ankle a few times and fall twice. I was trying to keep track of who was in front of me but during that trail section I think I was passed by four women. I figured I was in about 9th place. Not what I wanted but ok considering the field and the fact that there were over a thousand people running this race. Once I was on the path along the river I felt like I could pick up speed and really get going. I think I was able to run that 26 miles in around 3:20. In the last 10 miles of the race I passed five women and came in fourth place behind Devon (course record, oh yea!), Meghan, and Annette. The four of us (and awesome Coach Howard) went out to dinner that night and celebrated a great day.Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-74074197618428893822009-10-21T15:29:00.000-07:002009-10-21T15:55:12.245-07:00R2R2R Girls Weekend<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigSbuONy_g1hI_tzarV9m009PCk2isLOTeDFUMscul8BEaig3mOzZMzBFvJ7SaoP2LqQO2DN2aEke4w6rIa-eiM-4f9AsLkTUCT91BHWL1uVDk3rAkLnI_GbDNsjYM4r7L498M26RcRwHC/s1600-h/P1010052.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigSbuONy_g1hI_tzarV9m009PCk2isLOTeDFUMscul8BEaig3mOzZMzBFvJ7SaoP2LqQO2DN2aEke4w6rIa-eiM-4f9AsLkTUCT91BHWL1uVDk3rAkLnI_GbDNsjYM4r7L498M26RcRwHC/s320/P1010052.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395186080786337266" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio_sZ545ZRjH76FaKXpm6Imse3Z63jQSLuUP_y5P-KzI_hf4KScg7QCaIRJMhKh-NnioFWXBnWknVS4q1SZJgnqRkqljjcWzSHYBJDGryzsGmSA39NBJKv6EH4L4f6zom6iyjRmcn8_Pal/s1600-h/P1010025.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio_sZ545ZRjH76FaKXpm6Imse3Z63jQSLuUP_y5P-KzI_hf4KScg7QCaIRJMhKh-NnioFWXBnWknVS4q1SZJgnqRkqljjcWzSHYBJDGryzsGmSA39NBJKv6EH4L4f6zom6iyjRmcn8_Pal/s320/P1010025.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395186068873306786" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE9DxuisfFmxHCi_Dkg4g6p3_qxalvXe0-eSgICnjzjMFnrvbfK5A6TymIkPuytCWN0cB3Q6u9IDtogi9eMlTMXdDLg_grxw5ZyHkkzY9xpsVCo-DLzVC80d8qc-lAK-0SLJC1cyBy2JpP/s1600-h/P1010041.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE9DxuisfFmxHCi_Dkg4g6p3_qxalvXe0-eSgICnjzjMFnrvbfK5A6TymIkPuytCWN0cB3Q6u9IDtogi9eMlTMXdDLg_grxw5ZyHkkzY9xpsVCo-DLzVC80d8qc-lAK-0SLJC1cyBy2JpP/s320/P1010041.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395186062779315938" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYLt-_IyDL3u5vspDpAk9dMB7jVdqZWElDAt_sObjcUFjs6Eg5EJWIN5h_bh2hJVNFENxch4GYq0fL01mmAnZDKiRCv9i5yJ-s87I14Imc3TNOCnr3fxtZ_rOrd8Dv2bXcxMcxcxCNlON7/s1600-h/P1010031.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYLt-_IyDL3u5vspDpAk9dMB7jVdqZWElDAt_sObjcUFjs6Eg5EJWIN5h_bh2hJVNFENxch4GYq0fL01mmAnZDKiRCv9i5yJ-s87I14Imc3TNOCnr3fxtZ_rOrd8Dv2bXcxMcxcxCNlON7/s320/P1010031.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395186059540318594" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkjC2HxcQnwtBlB3jc3MfRwEEVDGpy6Iab85kUh9tc6qS4Z8dW3ff0d6R8tDh5AHoNRIKo8gAS1I7IOdYRnitTw7oZJ6PI1D5ejpR7_C40HExbVf1Aq31ykXn7pU95wvGY_pipOwkiJXM/s1600-h/P1010049.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkjC2HxcQnwtBlB3jc3MfRwEEVDGpy6Iab85kUh9tc6qS4Z8dW3ff0d6R8tDh5AHoNRIKo8gAS1I7IOdYRnitTw7oZJ6PI1D5ejpR7_C40HExbVf1Aq31ykXn7pU95wvGY_pipOwkiJXM/s320/P1010049.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395186047455031874" /></a><br /><br />I spent last weekend with three amazing women celebrating Krissy's birthday with a South Rim to North Rim back to South Rim run through the Grand Canyon. The total distance was about 45 miles with 11,000 feet of elevation gain and loss. Standing at the rim of the Canyon is beautiful but to be able to experience it with this run was spectacular. It truly made me feel connected to the landscape. We enjoyed stopping to take many pictures, had a run in with a BIG ram, ate snickers and drank lemonade at Phantom Ranch, took a couple dips in the river, and visited with other hikers out for the day. We started our day at sunrise and finished at sunset. The views were outstanding but my favorite part of the weekend was spending time with great friends. Ellen Parker, Devon Crosby-Helms, Krissy Moehl, and I created memories that I will cherish forever.Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-83829394185547787852009-08-31T17:56:00.000-07:002009-08-31T19:35:06.507-07:00Where's Waldo 100k and Pacing at Cascade Crest 100<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXt9LLys0i6TZAppKPPm0Wt0KR_oQVuwg7UrEzpBKiwRVchTWUMmoIg3KdmesamewWmTA0G2xeGwzff6g4x7MSkmVTGERGaLqQzNmMDFVQ-u6_DF-VwcnR10ZiynzK8EpiwztXK9oeVm0a/s1600-h/P1010074.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXt9LLys0i6TZAppKPPm0Wt0KR_oQVuwg7UrEzpBKiwRVchTWUMmoIg3KdmesamewWmTA0G2xeGwzff6g4x7MSkmVTGERGaLqQzNmMDFVQ-u6_DF-VwcnR10ZiynzK8EpiwztXK9oeVm0a/s320/P1010074.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376311119864358034" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQW5GCMoyNBf1Wnkg3g-yDWyhCIoiBmYvmm2uazfFyHZ5d80WghlUpx8zKCtH5nGvgG5gLPnRo1RiPwfW8L9_FK4uO33M4rsxRe7DGAW8VbfLBxDJlsq2IeKE2zhbXd-9SOF0fqM-_MIiL/s1600-h/Waldo+100k+09+023.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQW5GCMoyNBf1Wnkg3g-yDWyhCIoiBmYvmm2uazfFyHZ5d80WghlUpx8zKCtH5nGvgG5gLPnRo1RiPwfW8L9_FK4uO33M4rsxRe7DGAW8VbfLBxDJlsq2IeKE2zhbXd-9SOF0fqM-_MIiL/s320/Waldo+100k+09+023.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376304539976184354" /></a><br />Picture on top is the start of Cascade Crest 100 and bottom picture is Amy Sproston and me at the finish of Where's Waldo. The past two weekends I spent in the mountains surrounded by the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. First up was <a href="http://www.wpsp.org/ww100k/">Where's Waldo </a>100k. This is my new favorite race. I'm sure it is going to be one of those races that fills immediately if everyone who runs it is as impressed as I am. The scenery was incredible and the organization of the race was stellar. Montrail is including it in the Ultra Cup and USA Track and Field uses it as a 100k championship so it attracts some top notch runners. I also paced at <a href="http://www.cascadecrest100.com/">CCC100</a> the following weekend. I had a great time crewing through the day, visiting friends, and pacing through the night. This was my first attempt at pacing and it really makes me appreciate the work Devon and Annie put in when they paced me at CCC last year and TRT in July. It is great to watch your runner succeed and to help them through the tough spots. Something was in the air both at Waldo and CCC. Course records were broken and times were FAST! I had a blast being a part of it all!Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-63955251562363353732009-07-22T19:59:00.001-07:002009-07-23T17:23:41.685-07:00Tahoe Rim Trail 100<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIPEv4i_Wk00AZYrnmifvDOmYTPn4Qy1CGByKbhWij-8GorWBOPi6f-I6HXDgDF4mAscvLuu-SZU4pQuBp-Fg6dmjZm-ZKzewoebr_1Nyf42R_SeYxzZvNfqi9rJTixZT5rktsNwbwq2o3/s1600-h/595795292_3uWmL-S.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIPEv4i_Wk00AZYrnmifvDOmYTPn4Qy1CGByKbhWij-8GorWBOPi6f-I6HXDgDF4mAscvLuu-SZU4pQuBp-Fg6dmjZm-ZKzewoebr_1Nyf42R_SeYxzZvNfqi9rJTixZT5rktsNwbwq2o3/s320/595795292_3uWmL-S.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361484983704356674" /></a><br /><br />I heard so many wonderful things about this race. The beauty, the runnable yet challenging course and the great support. The fact that it was a USA Track and Field Championship was a bonus. I was excited but extremely nervous to run at altitude. Yes, I am on the Wasatch Speed Goat Mountain Racing Team so you would think I would have no worries, but the mountains I run on in Washington State don't seem to go much higher then around 5500 feet. To run an entire 100 mile race between 7000 and 9700 feet would be pushing my limits. Things have been busy for me this year with nursing school, kids activities, running and life. The week I went to Tahoe I was in clinicals Wednesday and Thursday, left the hospital Thursday night to go to the school and take an exam I would be missing Monday, came home and packed, got up at 4am Friday to meet Annie at the airport, flew to Tahoe, did the race check in, and then got up at 3am to run Saturday morning. I finished around 8am on Sunday so yessireee...I am tired!<br /><br />Annie Theissen and I met at Chuckanut 3 years ago. I immediately liked her outgoing go-get-em personality. Over the years we would visit at races and then this year I was talking to her after Chuckanut 50k and asked her if she wanted to pace me at Tahoe. She agreed! We talked on the plane the whole way to Tahoe reminding each other we would have to save some things to talk about during our run through the night.<br /><br />When we got to Reno the temperature was 105. It was supposed to be that way all weekend. I think I had myself so freaked out about the altitude that the heat was not that big of a bother to me. We had a great time picking up race numbers and going to the pre-race meeting. We then had lunch with teammate Jim Skaggs and his crew of friends and then we ate dinner with fellow runner and pacer Rich and Linda. My tank was full for the weekend ahead.<br /><br />5am Saturday morning I was off. It was already warm out and I felt comfortable in a sleeveless shirt. I was covered in sunscreen and wore my trusted First Endurance visor to keep that sun off my face. The sun had not come up yet but I decided to follow the crowd and not bother taking the headlamp. I knew it would be light soon enough. The group of 100 mile runners started with about 112 people and we started spreading out as we headed up past Marlett Lake ( 3 miles in). I was thinking this could be a fast course and I needed to be careful reminding myself I had a long way to go and the importance of taking it easy. The terrain was loose sand and scattered rocks (perfect for a good ol' Monica fall, which only happened once thank you very much). At mile 11 we hit the Tunnel Creek aid station and refueled for the "taste of Hell" portion of the race. This was a steep downhill that seemed to get hotter with every step. Then we had to climb back up to Tunnel Creek and get weighed for the first time. I was a bit nervous about my weight because of the heat and climb but when I got on the scale I had actually gained a couple pounds. I figured I was doing well on hydration. We then headed out to Mt. Rose which was a beautiful single track then backtracked to Tunnel Creek. We were now 35 miles in and I was starting to feel bloated. I was good about eating and drinking but I had not been able to pee. Sure enough, I gained another couple pounds. I was not held at the aid station but I was told to start taking in more salt and less water. I tried this as I made the climb to Hobart (mile 40), Snow Valley, and down to the start/finish (mile 50). By this aid station I was ready to have Annie with me. I had been taking it nice and slow (11.5 hours for the first 50) and was ready for some company. My stomach was giving me a hard time and for the first time ever I felt like throwing up. I just wanted to get rid of all that water, nuun, macca, electrolyte drink. I was starting to feel like I did at CCC last summer and I did not want to eat anything. Annie had set my watch to beep every half hour to remind me to eat and it was really starting to make me mad. The second loop was the same as the first only much slower and a bit more painful! Everything looks different in the dark and Annie and I even took a wrong turn during that second loop. We only went off track about a mile but that can be pretty frustrating when it is taking almost an hour just to go 3 miles! The great thing about this kind of course is you get to see the runners ahead and behind you on the out and backs. It was a lot of fun cheering for people along the way. Since this was a USA Track and Field Championship there were all sorts of rules regarding our safety runners. They had to stay back 10 meters at all times except in the aid stations. They had to enter and leave the aid stations with their runners. Annie had fractured her metatarsal a few miles into her run with me but I was unaware of this because she did not want to leave me without a pacer. That tough cookie ran the whole 50 miles on that foot and did not even tell me until the finish. I hope she heals quickly. What a selfless woman.<br /><br />We came through the finish in 27 hours flat. I ended up 4th girl, 20th overall. Almost 50% of the field dropped. The heat, climbing, and elevation really got to everyone. The beauty and wonderful volunteers will keep everyone coming back for more. I am lovin my new buckle and may even go buy a pair of Wranglers!!Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-59248821215867490722009-05-06T15:33:00.000-07:002009-05-20T07:19:44.655-07:00Miwok 100k<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiWI1eC5SrnTRM-nGYgUWGA_dsaIA5zoQzCoj9rWLbcO8dbHWpozpeFDDuvEMu8ccnn-vin4Tsbl48sZLiXYf7OBG5cwul-GM_cEL-Z96E5Zy1im5pXokqecwU6yrvfX6j4PNn9o3K49Mr/s1600-h/ochs2419-01-066.jpeg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiWI1eC5SrnTRM-nGYgUWGA_dsaIA5zoQzCoj9rWLbcO8dbHWpozpeFDDuvEMu8ccnn-vin4Tsbl48sZLiXYf7OBG5cwul-GM_cEL-Z96E5Zy1im5pXokqecwU6yrvfX6j4PNn9o3K49Mr/s320/ochs2419-01-066.jpeg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337910580688764562" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDVPS6vQ04XtTmwzGVONUu2yVHsBATAqb6rdcKYT8_M1A7mOVBcyCyHnbC-eGf0sZzxBhuetCqqgsJgIDJUxsmBx3J6m3S802R0qXtKeS-drEhknMa3j0bUGB5cJBqkPU26f_Tm1foM3HD/s1600-h/4197_73518487644_512102644_1676822_6471141_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDVPS6vQ04XtTmwzGVONUu2yVHsBATAqb6rdcKYT8_M1A7mOVBcyCyHnbC-eGf0sZzxBhuetCqqgsJgIDJUxsmBx3J6m3S802R0qXtKeS-drEhknMa3j0bUGB5cJBqkPU26f_Tm1foM3HD/s320/4197_73518487644_512102644_1676822_6471141_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332842881534695570" /></a><br /><br />Pictures taken at Miwok 100k 5/2/09 Results here:<a href="http://www.run100s.com/results/wmw09.htm"> http://www.run100s.com/results/wmw09.htm</a><br /><br />The weeks leading up to Miwok I was not sure I would be running. I had nagging injuries since American River and I just kept procrastinating on making a decision about whether or not I would attempt it. I decided I would still go and volunteer if I was not feeling better by Friday. I arrived Friday afternoon and met up with Devon. She lives in Sausalito part-time so she was familiar with the area and took me to a great place for lunch and then we searched the city for a place to re-pierce my nose (my instructor for hospital rotations made me take it out and it grew back by the next day)! We then went to dinner with a group of Pacific North Westerners who were down for the race. The whole day I did not even notice my hip or knee. DECISION MADE!! I would run the 100k in the morning!<br /><br />Devon picked me up at 4:45 and took me to the start (what a great friend). It was so fun to see people I have not seen in years and to meet people who I have visited with on Facebook but never met. I hooked up with Elinor and her Dad who came to crew for me again after just meeting last month at American River. They were AWESOME!!! They stood in the rain ALL DAY and always had just what I needed at the aid stations. I felt incredibly spoiled.<br /><br />I have heard from many people that Miwok is one of the most beautiful races out there. Unfortunately, Saturday was not the day to see the views. I left the sunshine in Seattle and experienced the rain, wind, and fog of San Francisco. I was so cold that by mile 24 I looked at my hands and they were a lovely shade of blue. All I could think of was how good that warm shower was going to feel. I did enjoy this race despite the weather. It was fun seeing the front runners at the turn-around, the course was challenging yet runnable, the volunteers were spectacular, I had no stomach problems, and my body held up all 62 miles. Would I do this race again to see those views? Absofreakinglutely!Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-86568074790997947332009-04-06T20:01:00.001-07:002009-04-07T20:02:36.305-07:00American River 50 Mile<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdr2VmvkrVrliThCajHxG4lcw6gQ_FJm14xEUOGzWMGEvDdX1ou0pc4ikIB0Qb6uJrvhD8eo_g6hcvAO6rwmZmpOsB1869DCp5WzQ90CRwWNDafFJCOgpPZdYBOzZGPTj34i1LzrQsT9m/s1600-h/arjumping.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdr2VmvkrVrliThCajHxG4lcw6gQ_FJm14xEUOGzWMGEvDdX1ou0pc4ikIB0Qb6uJrvhD8eo_g6hcvAO6rwmZmpOsB1869DCp5WzQ90CRwWNDafFJCOgpPZdYBOzZGPTj34i1LzrQsT9m/s320/arjumping.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322150544604862146" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtEDYgbu7uhckB6VXxcmX2PYP4Fyn4Iv83YTp7cz9vYoW4PZyLyl7HDXXsrSxk4BNvTAgpkAvHhW_X0KXFrYU7nIo5oO6PMECNeRS1sq8m_tjCHAEUPnJBGocv5BxPZ6I7QhjeaeUWa0Ok/s1600-h/AR+girls.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtEDYgbu7uhckB6VXxcmX2PYP4Fyn4Iv83YTp7cz9vYoW4PZyLyl7HDXXsrSxk4BNvTAgpkAvHhW_X0KXFrYU7nIo5oO6PMECNeRS1sq8m_tjCHAEUPnJBGocv5BxPZ6I7QhjeaeUWa0Ok/s320/AR+girls.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321780557433841218" /></a><br />Photos are top 5 women at AR50 finish. <a href="http://www.run100s.com/results/ar50_2009.html">Results</a> here.<br /><br />I ran American River two years ago with the hope of placing in the top 3 and gaining an automatic entry to Western States. I had a good race but placed sixth so I entered the lottery again the next year. Didn't make lottery in 2008 so I figured I was now a two time loser which meant as long as I continued this crazy ultra-running I would be an automatic entrant for 2009. Then the fires of 2008 canceled WS and people on the two time loser list were shuffled through yet another lottery. Several months ago I was told I would be guaranteed entry for 2011. This is when I decided I would try for top three again at American River. I didn't tell many people that this was my goal because I knew it was far fetched but I also knew it was worth a try. I recognized at least 7 women on the entrant list who in my mind were definitely capable of top three. I figured I needed to run at least a 7:30 to even come close.<br /><br /><a href="http://annettebednosky.blogspot.com">Annette Bednosky</a> and I decided to share travel expenses and just have a fun weekend together. She flew from North Carolina and we met in Sacramento Friday afternoon. We picked up our race numbers (I was so excited to see I was #23), ran some errands, went to the hotel, went for a short jog, and then went to dinner. I had a half veggie sandwich and a cup of black bean soup (BIG MISTAKE).<br /><br />Saturday we were up at 4AM and ready to hit the trail for 50 miles of fun! Annette's husband's uncle and cousin and cousin's friend came to the start and collected our gear. They had volunteered to crew for us which was just the biggest treat ever! Annette, Kami and I started the race together and ran probably the first 10-11 miles just chatting away. It was great to visit with them and even though I felt the pace was a bit fast the miles just flew by. About 12 miles in is when the black bean soup caught up with me. I said goodbye to Annette and Kami and made my first (of five) pit stops of the day. I was able to get going again at a decent pace and crossed the marathon distance in 3:20. Other than my stomach feeling upset I felt strong and within the right pace. I don't remember exactly when but I was passed by Jen Pfeifer and then around mile 30 Jenny Capel was running right with me. We visited for a while and then she took off up the hill. I was disappointed with myself for losing that 3rd place spot. The pounding of the pavement had started to annoy me, my stomach was misbehaving, and I was feeling frustrated. Once I started running on the dirt trail my mindset improved. I was reminded why I enjoy trail running so much and I convinced myself to get out of my funk. The last half of the race is on single track, gently rolling, fun trails. The aid stations were plentiful with crew extraordinaire always there cheering. I tried to keep GU and electrolytes in but was still making more stops than I wanted to for my stomach. I knew if I could just keep my present pace I would be able to finish in the time I wanted. I just enjoyed the trail along the river, pushing my pace as best as I could and then climbed the last 1000 feet to the finish. Even though top three was not in the cards for me I was thrilled with my time of 7:26 (5th girl). Two years older and 16 minutes faster than last time! As Annette said at dinner that night...."You really are meant to run TRT this year." I think she's right.<br /><br />Thank you Julie for putting on a great race. Thank you to Annette's family for being out there all day with us. Thank you Annette for being you! It was a beautiful weekend.Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-66291411468410888192009-03-23T18:07:00.000-07:002009-03-25T12:11:58.136-07:00Chuckanut 50k<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOtbDhZm9lIqqeP2qnKR_ZPW1MYa5P4RftF8b5407rM9yi-EXK2Wc7j7ezO7NQxAy_w9Gzu4zStvL0SoRsGQR2rK2WoPlGPKMkXQF1eOcv0zeBFWOS_eFHoLxGf7C0M6kEdgzl6LWiXZ6z/s1600-h/110523234.KNAGav4q.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOtbDhZm9lIqqeP2qnKR_ZPW1MYa5P4RftF8b5407rM9yi-EXK2Wc7j7ezO7NQxAy_w9Gzu4zStvL0SoRsGQR2rK2WoPlGPKMkXQF1eOcv0zeBFWOS_eFHoLxGf7C0M6kEdgzl6LWiXZ6z/s320/110523234.KNAGav4q.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317204204498937458" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYKwZ392e739RM64lZVUTp09viF8nwLYFA6fYccvnM-eslhL225FUFp0e4DT9x4H8NVvfnGNWeBu-T01W0i1SSkZ8REhTyEuxe-fnPD5_6whm2tS-vvYe4pE0s3Bb4H9fzIqVlf8QsjO6I/s1600-h/110513990.kUrpjoxs.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYKwZ392e739RM64lZVUTp09viF8nwLYFA6fYccvnM-eslhL225FUFp0e4DT9x4H8NVvfnGNWeBu-T01W0i1SSkZ8REhTyEuxe-fnPD5_6whm2tS-vvYe4pE0s3Bb4H9fzIqVlf8QsjO6I/s320/110513990.kUrpjoxs.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317204197580413410" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkXKYYcrnKpHgTIWpnwyXbIgjytQROfajjZmF5oTmtrogFdBwg6KOX5_Do4zo1EaVR6QIwXSg5CV5UsYN0eVRcw6T1i6ONRRXQ9K3nX2tKvdaaa8HA4mZ4dZen3mclgLPSP-WtuLrwj7rv/s1600-h/La+Sportiva+Fireblade+womens+yellow.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 245px; height: 167px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkXKYYcrnKpHgTIWpnwyXbIgjytQROfajjZmF5oTmtrogFdBwg6KOX5_Do4zo1EaVR6QIwXSg5CV5UsYN0eVRcw6T1i6ONRRXQ9K3nX2tKvdaaa8HA4mZ4dZen3mclgLPSP-WtuLrwj7rv/s320/La+Sportiva+Fireblade+womens+yellow.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317204192634189282" /></a><br /><br />Photos by Glenn Tachiyama<br /><br />I stayed close to home this past weekend and raced in Bellingham, WA at The Chuckanut 50k. It had been raining all week and predictions were for rain on Saturday but we got LUCKY!!! It was a beautiful day with perfect racing temperatures. This year's race had over three hundred entrants, all ready to spend a day on a beautiful course with a little bit of every type of terrain. The first and last six miles are on the Interurban Trail which is basically a fast and flat dirt road. At about mile eight we head up a few miles to Fragrance Lake on a single track trail and then down to a logging road which heads back up for about another 3 miles. Once done with the logging road the fun begins. This is when we get to test our nimble feet on the Chuckanut Ridge. I have run Chuckanut five times and this was the first year I have been able to observe the gorgeous views from the Ridge. Usually it is cloudy up there and difficult to see. After several technical miles on the ridge we hit another wide trail and headed up, up, up. This is where the mud was. I was wearing my brand new La Sportiva Fireblades which were such a pretty shade of yellow! No more. Now they look loved and used. Speaking of the Fireblades they were comfortable right out of the box. The race was the first time I wore them. Not one blister. They felt light yet supportive on the logging road, single track trails, and the mud. When done with the muddy climb we reached "Chinscraper" which is a short (maybe a mile 1/2) steep climb. Then it was time to head down and back to where it all began. Thank you to Krissy, her Ma, her friend Porsche, and all the volunteers who made this race a ton of fun, safe, green, and well supplied with good eats.Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-22068867618904900692009-03-02T16:17:00.000-08:002009-03-03T08:31:14.080-08:00A wet Napa Valley MarathonWhen I was running CCC100 last summer I had this crazy thought. I decided I wanted to try and run a sub-three hour marathon. My fastest marathon to date was 3:00 flat and I figured taking a minute or two off that was doable. I also thought if I could be on the trails for over 24 hours then I could push myself for 2:58! I did the speed work, the long runs, went to <a href="http://mtbakercrossfit.blogspot.com/">crossfit</a>. I ran Orcas 50k 3 weeks ago to give myself a final long run. I felt ready. I flew to Sacramento Friday afternoon after school, drove to Napa, picked up some food and went to the hotel to study. Saturday I spent the morning exploring the valley and I picked up my race packet. I was feeling more nervous for this race then I had in a long time. I think it was do to my expectations. I ate a great dinner at a vegetarian restaurant called <a href="http://www.ubuntunapa.com/">Ubuntu</a> (if ever in Napa check it out, it's wonderful). After dinner I returned to the hotel for some more studying and an early bedtime. Sunday was an early get up to catch the shuttle to Calistoga. It was pouring down rain and the wind was blowing. Thank goodness we could stay on the buses for the hour before the race instead of standing in the rain. Even with the weather the way it was <a href="http://www.napavalleymarathon.org/">Napa</a> truly is a beautiful marathon. 24 miles of the race are on the Silverado Trail (road not dirt) which has gentle rolling hills and vineyards as far as the eyes can see. I ran the first half right on pace for a 2:58. I consistently ran between 6:40s and 6:50s. I felt good with my second place standing but I knew it was early. By about mile 15 I started feeling my legs get heavy. My times were slowing to the upper 6:50s and I was passed by a speedy girl who did not even look tired! I was able to hold 3rd place (3:03) but I was not able to hold my goal pace. It could have been I was not as prepared as I thought I was or maybe the rain and wind got to me. Maybe it just was not my day. Whatever the reason, in running just as in life, there is always a new day. I now look forward to finishing school and getting back on the trails!Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-68093601677162566152009-02-10T14:20:00.000-08:002009-02-10T15:39:33.821-08:00Orcas 50k<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6wbsC3BpmbroRrAzTq2JldHmTZDP1KCq_YSpIqtPPoeQ2tD7fqoHFOxAZhsJc2FI5BZGLtlZ1PEXBaBEBz0-1fyOymi4zjGegpUAV-PrkmpmarT3TiLKmwE0VHug1Sf3InbVCg5XtT27l/s1600-h/109025244.7HjAZa1h.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6wbsC3BpmbroRrAzTq2JldHmTZDP1KCq_YSpIqtPPoeQ2tD7fqoHFOxAZhsJc2FI5BZGLtlZ1PEXBaBEBz0-1fyOymi4zjGegpUAV-PrkmpmarT3TiLKmwE0VHug1Sf3InbVCg5XtT27l/s320/109025244.7HjAZa1h.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301315674707501842" /></a><br />Photo by <a href="http://pbase.com/gtach/orcas09">Glenn Tachiyama</a><br /><br />Orcas is the perfect example of why I enjoy ultra running and the crowd it attracts. This race, put on by <a href="http://rainshadow-running.blogspot.com/">James and Alison</a> was not only held in a beautiful location with views from Vancouver B.C. to Seattle (yes, to see these views we needed to climb a bit), but the communication from the race directors before the race, the "greenness" of this event, the great support at the race, and the post race party made it one of my favorite 50ks out there. As for the crowd, and this applies not only to Orcas but to almost all ultra runs I have done, the people are what make it all worthwhile. There is nothing better then reconnecting with friends and meeting new friends at events. It is nice to be with people who share a love for the outdoors and an understanding of what spending a day in the woods can do for our psyche. <br /><br />This is the second year I have run Orcas. Last year there was too much snow so the route had to be adjusted. This year, other than a little snow and ice at higher elevations, the trails were in phenomenal shape. The hardest part for me was the downhill. One of these days I will learn to be speedy and just let go when heading down. In true "fat ass run" style, there were only two aid stations for the 50k. I carried my <a href="http://www.nathansports.com">Nathan</a> hand held and wore my Nathan "Krissy" vest so I was able to carry all the gel and drinks needed for the 5+ hours I was running. I used <a href="http://www.firstendurance.com">First Endurance</a> liquid shot which tasted great! I liked not having to open a new packet each time I wanted gel. My time was slower than last year but I think we climbed a bit more. I ended up 4th girl and 16th overall. Next up...Napa Valley Marathon!Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-66417983958624060062008-12-03T06:20:00.000-08:002008-12-03T06:24:45.046-08:00Tribute To The Trails 2009Don't forget to order the<a href="http://www.pbase.com/gtach/2009calendar"> 2009 Tribute To The Trails Calendar</a>! Great cause and beautiful photograghs.Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-38591550672825917582008-12-02T19:41:00.000-08:002008-12-05T13:40:59.765-08:00Rose Valley 33 Mile (Substitute for Santa Barbara Nine Trails)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0sCdTomtt3_DnoJx7y-wAbf2aySkC8SDyXU5DYBD4oCBJz8LrKOeGp3YtwBUZfNR1RC-LIO-c1qUGgUPRr27VAZA2a3-mIntxYg6TibWqiVlrXNJpfYR83A3Fd4P6z545oL2X6vGjr8uW/s1600-h/P1010030.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0sCdTomtt3_DnoJx7y-wAbf2aySkC8SDyXU5DYBD4oCBJz8LrKOeGp3YtwBUZfNR1RC-LIO-c1qUGgUPRr27VAZA2a3-mIntxYg6TibWqiVlrXNJpfYR83A3Fd4P6z545oL2X6vGjr8uW/s320/P1010030.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275404820933931698" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWb5yUrEfeEoQAXEQ-xvAYg0RphrOuaKTB2XbZdCLgIDSMcbdm7AOlhyRBuU55Lb-s0CwJVSGSnI0m525KfbWot_Z9C2p_80yOtLwfL_GNJL1ZL5PwtkOW2J-pc9baYxa4RMcK5BrATOV/s1600-h/P1010035.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWb5yUrEfeEoQAXEQ-xvAYg0RphrOuaKTB2XbZdCLgIDSMcbdm7AOlhyRBuU55Lb-s0CwJVSGSnI0m525KfbWot_Z9C2p_80yOtLwfL_GNJL1ZL5PwtkOW2J-pc9baYxa4RMcK5BrATOV/s320/P1010035.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275404813803707730" /></a><br />Due to the Tea Fire in the Santa Barbara area the race that was originally scheduled had to be moved to trails in the Ojai Valley. Race Director Luis Escobar accomplished this task with only a week until race day. I am so impressed with the work he and all the volunteers put into this race. Having never run the Santa Barbara Nine Trail Run I don't know what I missed, but from all accounts it is THE race to attend! I hope to go back next year for the real deal! <br /><br /><a href="http://www.allwedoisrun.com/2008_finishers.htm">Rose Valley 33 mile Run</a> was great! The sky was clear blue and the stars were bright at the start. It was cold with temperatures in the upper 30s but after the first climb I warmed up nicely. By 8:00 I was wishing I had applied sunscreen and worn sunglasses! This race was held on part of the course that Coyote 2 Moons 100 mile run is on. It had long climbs (9700 feet total elevation gain) and over 20 miles of single track trail. The views were incredible of the Ojai Valley, Lake Casitas, Pacific Ocean and The Channel Islands. I ran the first 10 miles or so with Krissy and Luanne and then settled into my own slower pace as they took off down hill. Even when running alone, since the course was an out and back plus a couple more out and backs off the main course I was able to see people and keep up with how everyone was doing. I ended up placing 2nd girl and 8th overall with a time of 5:39.Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-72480361680791870102008-09-16T10:42:00.000-07:002008-09-16T16:07:58.635-07:00Cle Elum 50k<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxCWiHKRfYLKnVnBSQmGBNCgfZLdE__dTdKFOjSRlxGm2dOBPoyOnvUQrRhM0tvzowYhE0CJMgP_TpeQCli_E7wGtS_AL019HVTgMZbh6AR1ytg_5D1bj5G_X01MRz2WISYLyql2rW8Yr/s1600-h/103128183.VMnxXRi3.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxCWiHKRfYLKnVnBSQmGBNCgfZLdE__dTdKFOjSRlxGm2dOBPoyOnvUQrRhM0tvzowYhE0CJMgP_TpeQCli_E7wGtS_AL019HVTgMZbh6AR1ytg_5D1bj5G_X01MRz2WISYLyql2rW8Yr/s320/103128183.VMnxXRi3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246678954735508338" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgaPObGabLQ24VFiRE-xdZFIeNv43FLdRZOYgj87ViktYhv0qjLvh6Ul-VXmiaq_3zBjK70ZeiCy-kq3rWWahOAg4ZyPB8_nmsYkSKJhSByF6Wq-rZxmHDIQCUZHWX0vo9XB0VzNq3Fdn/s1600-h/103130732.PoM4Ysuo_2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgaPObGabLQ24VFiRE-xdZFIeNv43FLdRZOYgj87ViktYhv0qjLvh6Ul-VXmiaq_3zBjK70ZeiCy-kq3rWWahOAg4ZyPB8_nmsYkSKJhSByF6Wq-rZxmHDIQCUZHWX0vo9XB0VzNq3Fdn/s320/103130732.PoM4Ysuo_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246678961396921186" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9P0i1P-1FvOY-e4Iiqyv96M8DPhJITTBj1MLj6pqyaisSUxUYn7le59918UA7HH0ddxCr9Um4GX9vXV7VTzftlC8gdZQLQ6D0RfH8w5qSplkWBBA_ztAh-iT3LOoLMyNGeDVT39imY1TC/s1600-h/103145210.o4ChMRw3_2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9P0i1P-1FvOY-e4Iiqyv96M8DPhJITTBj1MLj6pqyaisSUxUYn7le59918UA7HH0ddxCr9Um4GX9vXV7VTzftlC8gdZQLQ6D0RfH8w5qSplkWBBA_ztAh-iT3LOoLMyNGeDVT39imY1TC/s320/103145210.o4ChMRw3_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246678963721268738" /></a><br /> Photographer<a href="www.pbase.com/gtach/ce2008/"> <a href="http://www.pbase.com/gtach/ce2008">Glenn Tachiyama</a></a> spent his day in the woods taking pictures and cheering runners. It always feels great to see Glenn. Usually it means you have almost reached the top of a hill or you are close to an aid station! <a href="www.cleelumridge50k.com/"><a href="http://www.cleelumridge50k.com">Cle Elum</a></a> was one of the first ultras I signed up for many years ago but schedules conflicted and I have never been able to run it until last weekend. What a wonderful opportunity it was to participate in this run. The weather was warm and the trails were in phenomenal shape. The whole race except one mile is on trails. The first 17 miles we climbed to approximately 6000 feet and then headed down the last 14. It makes it fun when the second half split is faster. Race directors Chris and Marty Fagen did a great job. So much work goes into ultras. I truly believe the runners have the easy part. No more racing for me until November. This 50k was soooo fun I hate to say I am done for a while (running is quite the addiction) but it's time to rest and focus on some other things.Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-66754054952576746562008-08-25T12:11:00.000-07:002008-08-27T16:14:02.617-07:00Cascade Crest 100<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIuLTX7liUaHvzhQVqKTlEH8y1HYtcx7MFXBKkdS-jpQSEOSjGvz4akxvLcU3iZE6YUyXKzhChYwtumhjCJEqFC22D_ZG1tXrxqUsl6vKGMDsv0igmqqxaSJtBiMvkTc5cRMkMu2NB9Yn2/s1600-h/102209509.M7wU8Fjj.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIuLTX7liUaHvzhQVqKTlEH8y1HYtcx7MFXBKkdS-jpQSEOSjGvz4akxvLcU3iZE6YUyXKzhChYwtumhjCJEqFC22D_ZG1tXrxqUsl6vKGMDsv0igmqqxaSJtBiMvkTc5cRMkMu2NB9Yn2/s320/102209509.M7wU8Fjj.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239336511270706194" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGOhaEP_8wwoA_xu4epr9lZCTXvnvOxBrPuDncDLgVec9qx47n3x6OAVdid8lY19NZ185LJAtr7KwTP3WFuZzxCgeO7-X7tKGsK0CbgK-mz8FhAPudjvCDY_Sphxx0oatopfwfTcdoNJsr/s1600-h/102196381.G5gXWlh5.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGOhaEP_8wwoA_xu4epr9lZCTXvnvOxBrPuDncDLgVec9qx47n3x6OAVdid8lY19NZ185LJAtr7KwTP3WFuZzxCgeO7-X7tKGsK0CbgK-mz8FhAPudjvCDY_Sphxx0oatopfwfTcdoNJsr/s320/102196381.G5gXWlh5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239336516149736850" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGmqMp4aRjz_U-OBes0XAs97sFa_aMlYDav5jSxmWOROXN0u9bcgychIEFpQ7KwTskgXw6RqifSo6imkYDzF0RtihSClAZkTagPQwtMYXfUhoRVpueReO4brBRgDduWa18LUWr5yBgtFu/s1600-h/PICT0038.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGmqMp4aRjz_U-OBes0XAs97sFa_aMlYDav5jSxmWOROXN0u9bcgychIEFpQ7KwTskgXw6RqifSo6imkYDzF0RtihSClAZkTagPQwtMYXfUhoRVpueReO4brBRgDduWa18LUWr5yBgtFu/s320/PICT0038.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238903937423277826" /></a><br />My first 100 mile run...... Stomach issues for the last 45 miles, bees, bears (actually just one), mosquitoes, vandals, getting lost twice. BUT... The scenery was beautiful (see photo of Mt. Rainier by <a href="http://www.pbase.com/gtach/">Glenn</a>), volunteers spectacular, and pacer (<a href="http://dpstraining/blogspot.com">Devon</a>) extraordinary! I was so nervous going into this run with White River DNF still lurking. Turns out every day is a new beginning. Charlie Crissman knows how to put on a wonderful event. The run started at 10AM on Saturday so it was nice and warm for the initial climb up to Goat Peak. This climb is the same elevation and mileage as the climb up to Escapment @ Western States only on more technical trails. This set the tone for the next 20 some hours. Climbing, climbing and more climbing (20,147 ft. elevation gain over entire course). I met Devon at mile 52 and we put on our headlamps and took off following the well marked trails with red ribbons and some glow sticks at turns. Unfortunately, some creepy boys thought it would be funny to move the glowsticks so runners would take wrong turns. This ended up costing many of us added miles and time. Something I discovered about putting my body through an experience like this was that it really affected my brain. I have been in this daze like I just took a handful of cold medicine. Even two days out I am having a hard time remembering things. There are sections of the course that I have no recollection of running. My family is having to tell me things over and over again. During the run Devon was answering the same questions I asked 10 miles back. Weird... Will I do it again? ABSOLUTELY! When I wake up and feel normal again I will post some pictures!Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5536716874724782851.post-53109388441943429852008-07-27T09:11:00.000-07:002008-12-09T08:54:13.998-08:00White RIver 50 mile<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggMnn5D4iI-LB6qqK-g-VhyphenhyphenM3OgiXu6l_buCGrKIbv33TBXpO85aDoGYfrj95VVUVKgVH4qe83cERIqCoC9VJj09h6PEtH58fMOEttOHHdXpwSzY4L1DvWqhVrU22ufUjXh_KNze6_KiGa/s1600-h/100845541.WSxIWTgp.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggMnn5D4iI-LB6qqK-g-VhyphenhyphenM3OgiXu6l_buCGrKIbv33TBXpO85aDoGYfrj95VVUVKgVH4qe83cERIqCoC9VJj09h6PEtH58fMOEttOHHdXpwSzY4L1DvWqhVrU22ufUjXh_KNze6_KiGa/s320/100845541.WSxIWTgp.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228164743454383314" border="0" /></a><br />Saturday was not my day. The first five miles of the race I had this feeling things were not going well. Funny thing with running (and life), you can be so prepared and doing great and then WHAM! Something happens that reminds you we are here to learn and sometimes the lessons can be tough. I am a pretty stubborn <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Aries</span></span> and even though a little voice in my head was saying, "Drop out Monica, save yourself for Cascade Crest" I just couldn't do it until I...<div><br /><div>1. tripped and fell within the first 10 miles</div><div>2. had a terrible time breathing the first climb</div><div>3. had cramping calves</div><div>4. had an upset stomach</div><div>5. tripped and fell again during the decent</div><div>6. had cramping hamstrings</div><div>7. tripped and fell for the 3rd time coming out of the aid station at 27 miles </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><a href="http://www.pbase.com/gtach/">Photo by Glenn</a><br /><br /></span></span>OK...I do have a reputation of tripping but this was getting ridiculous!</div><div><br /></div><div>8. got to the top of Sunset and decided my stomach could not handle the 6 mile road down.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, I did it. I dropped at 37 miles. Terrible, terrible feeling. I have never dropped before and I hope I never do again. I sit here the next day wondering if I should have made myself finish. Really though, what would that prove? At least now I can focus on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">CCC</span></span>100 and work on what went wrong yesterday.</div><div><br /></div><div>What I loved about this weekend was I got to hang out with some amazingly awesome, kind, fun, intelligent, positive, talented runners and volunteers. The first and second place women were both 40+ and they ran <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">incredibly</span> well! Susannah set a new course record, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Kami</span></span> was second. That gives me hope for some better running to come the next few years! Annie placed 3rd. I am so glad I have visited with her during a couple races. She is one of the nicest women I know. I also got to meet <a href="http://dpstraining.blogspot.com/">Devon</a>. She is going to pace me at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">CCC</span></span>. Krissy <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">accidentally</span> double booked so she <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">suggested</span> her friend. Devon is full of personality and seems like a great gal (not to mention a super speedy runner)! I can't wait to get to know her better.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, the good <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">definitely</span> outweighs the bad. I am so thankful for all the good running has brought me. </div></div>Monica Ochshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07439526813373204956noreply@blogger.com9