Race Preview: Leadville 100

 

It's been 5 weeks since the Vermont 100, mildly disappointed to not have buckled there though very thankful to be alive in this years Grand Slam of Ultrarunning. The slam started with 28 runners, we're down to 19 as more then 700 runners toe the line at this years Leadville 100 Mile Endurance Run now brought to you by Lifetime Fitness.

Throughout my running career, when people hear that I've run 100 mile races, often times I am asked if I've ever run Leadville. It's akin to the age old annoying question, "Have you ever run Boston." I've been asked if I've run Leadville more times then I've been asked if I've run Western States. Could this race be the real big dance in ultrarunning? With over 700 runners in this years race, it is undoubtedly the most populous of the 100s. Thanks to prior articles on the Tarahmura Indians having run here and the now popular book Born To Run, no lottery and no cap on the number of entrants... Leadville is the new 100 mile free for all in the country.

It goes without saying that I am very excited to be heading back to Colorado after a 4 year absence. I hope to even call the state home this time next year. For now, another visit will do the trick. I am not worried about the altitude, not worried about the climbs or the peaks. I'm worried about the shear size of the running field. 700+ runners bottle-necking on single track trail does not sound like fun. Being careful to not get sucked into someone else's race and running my own race looks to be a tough task. This is where experience comes into play. Another 100, another day, another place... it's time to take to it an try and stay alive in the Grand Slam.

Race Goals:
1.) Finish
2.) Sub 28 hours
3.) Sub 25 Hours

Weather Report:
Friday Night: A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 9pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 38. West northwest wind between 5 and 10 mph becoming calm.

Saturday: A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Partly cloudy, with a high near 73. West northwest wind around 5 mph.

Saturday Night: A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 41. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Sunday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 71. West southwest wind around 5 mph.

The trick about this race thus far is having to arrive in Leadville with gear to battle anything weather wise. From rain to wind to snow to blazing sunshine. It's going to be a hell of an adventure and I cannot wait to tell you all about it when I return home.

HUGE thanks to my crew in advance. Samy and Dan who have provided a rental car and a hotel room. Bryan for coming in from Golden to help you. And my friends at Headweats, you guys all rock!

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