Trails of Glory


Welcome to Trails of Glory brought to you by The Trail Aficionado. This is the best place to get insight, learn trail running secrets, and discover new and unusual trails around the country. Follow the rest of my page with links to interesting running events locally and nationally. Read race reports, trail reviews and stories. Find informative posts on training methods, injuries, and running gear.



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Tuesday, May 24, 2011

REDEMPTION AND REFLECTION AT WESTERN STATES 2006

For those of you who were "lucky" enough to get into the 2011 Western States 100 Mile event I posted my experience from 5 years ago. Yes, it has a happy ending, so heed the good advice.


     It has been almost three weeks since I finished my first 100 mile run. The first time I tried to run 100 miles I failed due to excruciating, unrelenting leg cramps. I dropped out of that race at 59 miles but suffered from 42 on. It was easy to put my thoughts in writing when I got home from Angeles Crest in 2003. Depression, anger, frustration and disappointment are good fuel for expressing a person’s views and reflections. After Western States I crossed the finish line I experienced relief, redemption and a sense of wonder as to how did I just do that and not collapse when it was over. I walked away with a smile on my face looking for the sun to rise and thinking, “I might just do this again.”