2010 thoughts

I missed writing an end of the year wrap-up post. Oh well.

Here are a few things that come to mind.

1. Coca Cola is a good thing to drink in ultra-marathons. Peanut Butter and jelly sandwiches are good to eat in ultras too.

2. I need races on my calendar or I slack-off and gain weight. 'On my calendar' means that I've registered for them, not that they are just on my list. I'm at a 7-year high for weight right now. It is what it is.

3. I have a stronger draw towards trail runs than road races. For 2011 it looks like I will have most of my racing miles on trails.

4. This is my favorite thing about running a race. I start my race day with a 'blank picture' in my head of the race about to happen. The entire race experience provides paint for that picture - the people I meet, the things I see, how I feel, how I perform, my whole experience. At the end of the day I have a complete, painted picture of the race. That's what I like. That wasn't new for 2010, but it's one of my favorite thing about running races.

5. Races. I REALLY liked the Birkebeiner Trail Marathon. I will always like the Keweenaw trail series in upper Michigan. Also, the Door County Fall 50 team relay is a favorite of mine. Those are my key races for 2011 in addition to the Afton 25K or 50K that I love to run.

That's it. Have a great 2011 running year, everyone.

--Mark