Wednesday, March 31, 2010

2010 Illinois Trail Ultra Grand Slam Standings

After one of four ultra races, we now have the first standings for the Illinois Trail Ultra Grand Slam.

2010 Grand Slam Standings

Obviously, the male and female Clinton Lake champions (Logan Martin & Rachel Furman) are the current leaders in the Grand Slam.  Things can change quickly!  McNaughton Park, Rock Cut Hobo, and Farmdale complete the Grand Slam.  We'll have awards for everyone that completes the full slam, plus special male and female champion awards too.  Everything will be presented at the conclusion of the Farmdale race in October.

NOTE:  If you are looking for the results, race report, and pictures from the actual Clinton Lake race, those are available in the previous blog post.

Sunday, March 28, 2010

2010 Clinton Lake Race Report

It was a fabulous day for a race.  We've had some miserable weather on race day in the past--wind, rain, mud--but this year was gorgeous.  We started the race with partly sunny skies and a temperature of about 32 degrees.  As the day progressed, we reached a high of 54 with mostly cloudy skies and a light breeze.  As you can see in the photo to the left, the RD gave the weather and the trail course a double thumbs-up.  The runners seemed to enjoy the mild weather and smooth race course (very little mud this year).  The hills took their toll after a couple of loops, but most people hung in there and finished the full 30 miles.  We had 95 finishers with 9 DNFs.  Quite a few no-shows...were they afraid of the course?  Probably just registered very early and had conflicts come race day.  Sorry folks, you missed a wonderful day of racing.

Logan Martin (pictured at right with the RD) came back from Colorado to defend his title...and he did it style.  He led from start to finish and broke his own course record from last year...by 14 minutes!  He finished with a 3:42:47 time...and looked like he could continue for another loop or two.  He should give the 50-miler at McNaughton Park a try.  Rachel Furman ran Clinton Lake for the first time...and finished first without too much pressure from her female colleagues.  Rachel almost grabbed Christine Crawford's course record from last year...but fell 3 minutes shy.  Rachel's 4:32:47 finish was awfully fast for a first-timer.  Well done! 

This year was bitter sweet for me as RD.  This was my last year as race director and it was awesome to have such a fantastic group of racers, running along a super trail, with perfect weather.  As I was driving home after packing-up supplies, I thought back to my first run on the course in summer of 2001.  I never knew a trail like this existed in central Illinois.  Immediately I told my fellow runners that we needed to get race out here...and not just a short 10-miler...but a 50K ultra marathon!  The 50K idea turned into a 30-miler (after we measured the course and found the trail to be an almost perfect 10-mile loop).  Why add a one mile road section just to get a full 50K?  The local running club was hesitant to adopt the trail ultra.  Short story is that we kept plugging away and eventually hosted our first race in 2007.  Now we've completed the 4th annual Clinton Lake 30-Mile Trail Run.  Time flies by quickly.  I believe the race is in good hands and the club has already found two new RDs to replace me as I retire from race directing.  Mike and Bob, also from Second Wind Running Club, will take the race over next year.  As always, it'll still be a Second Wind event, but the new RDs will embed their personalities into the race and I'm sure their passion for running will come through in a positive manner.  I wish them the best.

Race Results are on my Google docs spreadsheet.  They'll be posted officially to the race web site when our webmaster returns to town.  I also have a few people that have shared their pictures with me.  Thanks.  Click below to go to their Clinton Lake race photos:

Tony's pics

Janak's pics

Renee's pics

Tom's pics

If you have race photos, upload them to a photo sharing site and send me the link.  I'll continue to post them here so we'll have a nice consolidated resource of race-day pictures.

Here are a couple of runner blog posts about their race experience this year (I'll take more if you send me the links):

Ed's blog

Jason's blog

Kelly's blog 

Heidi's blog


A big THANK YOU to the race sponsors, runners, and volunteers.  And to the local Department of Natural Resources office at Clinton Lake.  Over the years, I have been blessed with a solid and supportive group of sponsors, a loyal and dedicated set of volunteers (two of my favorites at left), and some of the best runners in the country.  I'll miss seeing you at "my race"--but I'll still see you on the trails as a fellow trail runner.  Maybe I'll even run Clinton Lake ultra next year...watch out...I know a few short-cuts! 

Don't forget that Clinton Lake is the first race in the Illinois Trail Ultra Grand Slam series.  Please consider doing the other three races (McNaughton Park, Rock Cut Hobo, and Farmdale). They are all quality events.  I'll be at McNaughton Park in 2 weeks as a volunteer. Sign-up, run, and say "Hi" to me at Heaven's Gate aid station.  If you need a pacer, I'm happy to join you for a loop or two...or three.

Finally, a very special thank you to the race pizza lady...my wife Sharon...who has ordered and delivered pizzas to the race for the last 4 years. Not to mention helping stuff goodie bags, shop for race supplies, buy food and drinks, pack the car on pre-race night, help compile race results after the event, listen to all of my complaints and frustrations...and celebrate a few joys.  Thanks wifey!  You're the best.

Saturday, March 27, 2010

Preliminary Race Results

I'm pretty sure these are comprehensive and accurate.  If you find a mistake, I am happy to make corrections...but I have 2-3 pieces of evidence for each entry so I'm confident they are correct (we could be off by 1-2 seconds on any entry, but the order should be correct and the one or two seconds are simply measurement error).  We'll get this posted on the Second Wind race web site on Tuesday or Wednesday, but it's now available via my Google Docs spreadsheet:

Preliminary Results for 2010 Race

Congratulations to every finisher!  Hope the DNFers are recovering well and ready for another try soon.  I'll have a race report tomorrow and maybe some pictures too.  Sleep well everyone...you deserve it!

PS:  If anyone is missing some gear, I may have found your stuff at the post-race clean-up. Let me know what you're looking for and I might have it.  

NOTE: All Clinton Lake finishers are now entered into the Illinois Trail Ultra Grand Slam.  Only three more trail ultras and you'll be a Slammer!  Sign up for McNaughton Park 50/100 now.  Recover over the summer and then do Rock Cut Hobo and Farmdale in the fall.

Super Quick Race Update

Just a super quick race update. I need to shower and go out to dinner with my wife...

Male Champion: Logan Martin, 3:42:47 (CR!)
Female Champion: Rachel Furman, 4:32:47

THANK YOU to all the runners and volunteers!  It was a glorious day.

Full race results will be posted on the blog tonight and on the Second Wind Running Club web site on Wednesday (webmaster is out of town). If you have pictures, upload them and send me the link.

Race Morning 2010

It's around 3:30am and I'm getting ready to join Gregg & Jeff to load supplies and head out to the race site to set-up the aid stations, slap some markers and signs on the road and course, and prepare the finish line.  ONLY FOUR HOURS UNTIL WE START!  My outdoor thermometer reads 32.  Cold, but not too bad.  It'll warm up quickly.  We are supposed to have a high of 56 with mostly cloudy skies and a steady breeze. Good running weather!

I should be back home and online again around 7-8pm tonight to post a quick race report. Kelly, our running club President (and webmaster), usually posts results very quickly once I have them in ready-to-display format.

GOOD LUCK RUNNERS!  We should have a wonderful race.  As always, all I want is good weather, a fair course, and no injuries.

Friday, March 26, 2010

Calm Before the Storm

We have less than 24 hours to go until the race starts!  Is this the calm before the storm?  It doesn't seem very calm around my house.  Runner goodie bags are everywhere, food for aid stations is scattered around the kitchen, 2-liter sodas are lined up like they are about to march into battle, and awards & prizes are waiting to be given away.  The full supply list is being double-checked and coordinated with other volunteers.  How many pizzas are being delivered?  Who buys the ice?  Where are all the 5-gal water coolers?  No running water at the race start?  Where is that darn volunteer list?  Do I have enough t-shirts for the vols?  How many water cups?  Finish line clock and chute?  How's all this stuff getting out to the race?  When do we leave to set-up in the morning?  4am!  Things are not calm.  At least the weather seems to be cooperating.

Current Weather Forecast for Saturday:
Low: 30
High: 56
Sky Conditions: Partly Sunny turning Mostly Cloudy
Chance of Rain: 3%
Winds: 10-12 mph from the SE
Race Director Comments: It's going to be good!

We had rain yesterday, but it wasn't too heavy and it was spread out over the whole day.  I think most of it will have soaked into the ground.  Lots of sun today. The trail should be in good shape.  I'll have an official trail report this afternoon.  GOOD LUCK TO ALL THE RUNNERS!

Remember, I'll be at Body n' Sole from 3-6pm today for the early packet pick-up.

Thursday, March 25, 2010

Rain Today, Sun Tomorrow

Yes, it is raining today.  We may get about half an inch of rain once this is all done.  Fortunately, tomorrow we'll have a nice sunny day.  The trail should soak up most of this rain without any problems.  There will be a few muddy spots, but it won't be a mudfest.  When you get 125 runners going around a 10-mile loop three times, whatever mud we have tends to get magnified.  I still think its going to be great conditions come Saturday morning. I'm excited for all of you runners!

Current Weather Forecast for Saturday:
Low: 30
High: 56
Sky Conditions: Mostly Cloudy
Chance of Rain: 4%
Winds: 15 mph from the SE
Race Director Comments:  I'm starting to believe...this might be alright!

It's almost close enough to race day that I trust this forecast.  Almost!  I've been fooled before.  I hope to see a few people at early packet pick-up (Friday, 3-6pm at Body n' Sole Sports).  If you pick up your stuff on Friday, you do NOT need to check-in again on race morning.  Also, on Friday afternoon, I'll have the latest trail conditions report.  I'll see the rest of you on race morning (check-in from 6:00-7:15am).  Race starts at 7:30am on Saturday morning at the Clinton Lake north fork boat access parking lot.  NO EARLY STARTERS--everyone starts at 7:30am.

WARNING ONE:  There are tons of leaves on the trail, so be wary of possible hidden rocks and roots. There aren't many rocks on the course, but there are roots. I haven't had too many problems stumbling over roots in recent training runs. Of course, after 20 miles, you'll start to let your feet drag and you may find a few roots grabbing you. This isn't a road race, so I assume if you signed-up, you are comfortable with basic trail running and the possibility of falling over rocks, roots, or fellow runners. 

WARNING TWO: Even when the weather is good, the wooden bridges can be slick--almost like ice.  Please be careful as you approach and go over the many small wooden bridges.  With the rain today, there will still be a bit of moisture in the air (and ground) on race morning so the bridges could be very slippery. Plus, there could be some frost early Saturday morning.

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Race Course Conditions

We are only three days away from the Clinton Lake race and the course is in excellent condition. The recent warmer temperatures and lack of rain have helped dry out the trail. We are supposed to have almost an inch of rain tomorrow (Thursday), but then dry again for Friday and Saturday. The trail should drain well and only have a few muddy spots come race day.  We usually have high winds and lots of mud. Could the perfect weather and fairly dry trail lead to new course records?  I hope so.  The current weather forecast for race day is:

Low: 30
High: 56
Sky Conditions: Mostly Cloudy
Chance of Rain: 6%
Winds: 12mph
Race Director Comments:  I like it, but I don't trust it!

I guess you racers have lived the good life and positive karma is in the air. For once, the volunteers should have a wonderful day to be at the aid stations, finish line, and trail. See you soon.  Your fearless leader (that's me) can be seen above running the 2008 race...and directing that same darn race.  No wonder I was so slow. The weather looks to be really nice this year...and I could use a long training run...maybe I'll consider running it again...is that even possible?

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Barefoot Runners on Local News

Tracy Thomas (ultra runner extraordinaire) and I (race director extraordinaire?) made an appearance on the local morning news today.  We were chatting about barefoot and minimalist running.  The 7-minute segment is posted on the WCIA TV web site:

http://illinoishomepage.net/content/fulltext/?cid=139261

Also, one of our local runners beat the TV station and posted the segment on YouTube--thanks Rob! The video quality on YouTube is not quite as good as the WCIA web archive, but it's good enough for minimalist ultra runners (actually this video feed streams quicker, has no commercial, and displays larger than the WCIA TV archive):



Hope you enjoy the short video. I don't think we embarrassed ourselves or the club too badly. At the end there is a nice plug for the Clinton Lake ultra race...and a mention of the extra prizes we are giving out to barefoot or Vibram FiveFinger runners! Tracy and I didn't have time to get into the research supporting minimalist or barefoot running, but it is out there. Here are 2 good web sites for those wanting more information:

Lieberman and colleagues at Harvard University

Jason's "Barefoot Running University"

Monday, March 22, 2010

Almost Time to Say Goodbye

I wanted to let this year's runners and volunteers know that this is my last year as race director of the Clinton Lake 30-Mile Trail Run.  Don't worry, the race will continue next year through Second Wind Running Club as usual.  There will be new RDs (Bob and Mike) and I'm sure they will do a fine job.  After the race, this blog will still exist with the same URL, but it will not be the "Clinton Lake Ultra" blog--more likely "Chris' Blog" or some such nonsense.  I may still post a few things about the race...but it will be unofficial and incomplete.  I'm going to focus more on trail running, training, and ultras...I hope it is still interesting and you'll keep reading.  I'll keep running and writing.

So, it is almost time to say "goodbye."  Not quite yet.  I still have plenty of race work to do.  Please make sure you say "Hi" (and "Bye") to me on race day.  It has been very gratifying to start this race and then direct it for four years.  I'll miss seeing all of the runners each year...but it was time to step down and concentrate on other aspects of my life...and running.  I'm quite certain I'll see most of you at trail races around the country in the future.  Thank you for running the race and reading my blog!

ONLY FIVE DAYS UNTIL THE RACE...and six days until my race retirement!  See you soon. Weather for race day is forecast to be cloudy with a high of 60...and no rain.  We'll see.

Sunday, March 21, 2010

Questions About the Race

I receive lots of questions about race policies, logistics, and rules.  You can always check the race web page FAQ.  It has some good information.  I realized this didn't answer all runner questions, so I posted more information about race changes and logistics on this blog last year (March 2, 2009 post).  Those 2009 race changes are all still in effect for 2010.  The only new things for this year are extra prizes for barefoot or FiveFinger runners and a different set of finisher medals and champion awards.  Let me know if you still have questions.

NOTE:  Please consider carpooling to the race--we will have fairly cramped parking at the start/finish area.

Less than a week to race day!  Current weather forecast is rainy (1.16 inches) with a high of 50.  Yikes!  The forecast changes every single day so I'm not too worried...yet.  The trail is in very good shape right now.

Saturday, March 20, 2010

Succeed! Sportdrink and S! Caps

For those wondering what food and drink will be at the aid stations, let me make it clear...we will have water, Succeed! Ultra Sportsdrink, S!-Caps, and soda at each aid station.  No Gatorade.  No Heed. No other sports drinks.  Succeed! is a race sponsor and has been from the beginning.  Karl King, the owner, is an ultra runner and has supported the ultra running community for many years.  He's also a University of Illinois alum!  Karl is active on ultra lists and provides accurate and comprehensive advice on fluid and electrolyte intake during extreme events.

In addition to Succeed! products, we'll have the normal ultra food at each aid station: chips, pretzels, cookies, PB&J sandwiches, crackers, M&Ms, bananas, etc. The particular grub may vary throughout the day, but there will be a variety of food that should satisfy your needs.  There are always surprises at the canoe aid station...burgers, steaks, beer, egg sandwiches...you never know what Gregg and his crew will provide.

I will likely have a couple extra bottles of Succeed S!-Caps to give away as prizes on race day. They are the best electrolyte replacement pills you can find.

RACE IS ONLY 7 DAYS AWAY!  The trail is in very good condition right now (Saturday morning), but rain is forecast today and tomorrow.   The extended weather forecast for race day is mostly cloudy, high of 57, with a passing shower in the afternoon.

Friday, March 19, 2010

Marathon & Beyond

Marathon & Beyond magazine is awesome.  Yes, they are a sponsor of the Clinton Lake 30-Mile Trail Run, but I would heap praise on them even if they spit on my face...well, maybe not spitting, but you get the idea.  Good magazine and great staff!  Jan Seeley, M&B publisher, has supported Second Wind Running Club and the local running community for years and years.  You won't meet a nicer or more positive individual than Jan.  When I wanted to give up on getting this ultra off the ground, she was one of only a handful of people that kept saying "Hang in there, this will work out."  She was right.  Now the race is in its fourth year and going strong.  M&B is in its 14th year and going strong!  I have every issue of the magazine and plan on subscribing until I no longer run...and that'll be when I'm in my grave.  Racers get a mini-subscription to M&B (6 months, 3 issues).  I hope you enjoy the magazine and consider renewing for a full year term.

8 DAYS UNTIL THE RACE!  Current race-day weather forecast is high of 45 with clouds and a slight chance of an afternoon shower.

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Body n' Sole Sports

Body n' Sole Sports (in Savoy, IL just south of Champaign-Urbana) is the best running store in town. OK, they are the only running store in town, but they would still be the best even if we had 20 stores in central Illinois!  They have been sponsors of the Clinton Lake ultra from the beginning and have always supported running in the community.  If it weren't for Jed and Mike at Body n' Sole, the local race scene would be slim pickings.  They sponsor, support, and direct numerous races.  Plus, they are the only place you can get genuine advice on running...and the shoes & apparel to support it.  They've looked at my minimalist shoes with some concern, especially since I run trail ultramarathons, but they are always happy to stock (or special order) my racing flats.  Good guys.

I mention Body n' Sole because they are sponsors of Clinton Lake, but also because the early packet pick-up is at their store on Friday, March 26 from 3-6pm.  Come by and grab your race packet, chat with me, buy some last-minute supplies, and get the scoop on the latest trail conditions.  Make sure you tell the staff "thank you" for sponsoring the race.  If it weren't for fine businesses like Body n' Sole, running and racing would suffer.  Here is their address and contact information:

Body n' Sole Sports
1317 Dunlap Ave
Savoy, IL 61874
STORE PHONE: 217-356-8926

NINE DAYS TO THE RACE!  Current weather forecast is sunny with a high of 45.  Sweet.

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Race Champion Awards

Here's a look at the first place champion awards that Tracy Thomas (local ultra runner and artist) made for the race. These are really nice.  Well crafted, beautiful, and tailor-made for this race.  Tracy also gave us a few other ceramic awards that the race director will hand out at his discretion.  Have a good attitude and treat me right...maybe you'll get some bling! 

For those that don't know, Tracy is an accomplished ultra runner from the Champaign area.  She also owns her own business, BodyMechanic Fitness, which happens to be a sponsor of this race.  In addition to her running and fitness business, Tracy has a background in fine art.  Her pottery can be found here on Etsy.

We are fortunate to have her as a long-time supporter of the Clinton Lake ultra.  This year, she is also a participant.  Watch out--this lady can run!  What happens if she wins first place?  Does she get her own trophy?  Do I provide an alternative award?  Tough questions.  Rumor has it we'll have a home-brewed "Clinton Lake Lager" available on race day.  Maybe Tracy would be happy with a few pints of that brew? 

Anyway, if you are fast and can overcome the 99 hills on the 30-mile trail course, you could be hoisting one of these fine awards on race day.  Good luck to everyone.  TEN DAYS TO THE RACE!

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Land Between the Lakes Marathon

I don't race much in the winter, so my first real test of my training and fitness for the new year is usually an early spring race...and lately that race has been down in Kentucky at one of the Land Between the Lakes races (23K, Marathon, 60K, and 50 miler).  The set of races attracts between 350-400 runners each year.  Other runners must be like me...looking forward to bursting out of the winter doldrums!  All the events start together on the road for about 1.7 miles, then everyone heads onto an 11+ mile trail loop.  Even with the road section that spreads runners out, it can still be fairly packed on the single-track trail for another couple of miles.  After picking your way around runners, you eventually find your desired pace and settle into the ups and downs of the terrain.  The trail has quite a few roots and a few rocks, but it's not that hilly (certainly less than Clinton Lake).  The entire trail is runnable, but I chose to walk the hills.  Overall, it's a beautiful and well-maintained trail that is a fair test of your running ability.

Yesterday, I did the trail marathon and ended up with a 4:07 finish. For me, that means I passed this fitness test with flying colors!  Last year I finished the marathon in 5:34.  Why such a faster time?  Well, the course and weather were better this year.  Last year we had rain and lots of mud.  This year it rained the day before, but race day brought cool overcast skies and a course that was muddy and wet in spots, but pretty firm overall.  Also, I ran my own race this year rather than hanging out with friends to "just get in a training run."  Finally, I think I'm in better shape this year.  Combine those changes and I end up finishing almost 90 minutes faster than one year before!  Not too bad for an early spring race.

I feel quite good today.  I have that lingering "marathon muscle soreness," but no real joint pain or injuries.  Except for the big blister on my right foot's arch.  I rarely get blisters.  I think this blister was mostly due to my quicker pace and "built-up" trail shoes.  I've been migrating to more minimalist shoes with very little cushioning and support...but these trail shoes were your standard tanks with high heels, arch support, and cushioning.  My foot probably enjoyed the extra protection from rocks and roots, but the "arch support" seemed to rub me the wrong way.  Combine that with a faster pace and a slightly wet & muddy course and you have blister-producing conditions.  It hurt like hell while running the last 8-10 miles, but it's already feeling better and starting to heal today.  I'll be back in more minimalist shoes tomorrow...and I hope to be running all my races in them soon. 

I'm looking forward to more training and future races.  My Lydiard-based program is going well and I have confidence to "stay the course" and run mostly aerobic and easy.  With the warmer temperatures, and disappearance of the snow and ice, I plan to get in many more long runs on the trails.  Now that we have the daylight saving time change with accompanying daylight after work, I'll start doing some two-a-day runs.  An easy morning run in the dark followed by an after-work run on the trails. The weekends will find me doing long trail runs...mostly at Clinton Lake.  I've found that training at Clinton Lake prepares me for almost any trail marathon or ultra.  If you are running the race in a couple of weeks, you'll know what I mean when you are done.  That Clinton Lake north fork trail has LOTS OF HILLS.  It's great for building up your running endurance and strength.

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Feelmax Osma Running Shoe

Over the last year, I have been trying to "go minimalist" in my running.  It's hard to find a running shoe that doesn't have a built up heel and extra cushioning and support.  Even "racing flats" aren't flat!  What's a runner to do?  Vibram FiveFingers are a nice alternative and I have enjoyed my KSOs.  Still, I wanted a shoe that looked like a shoe, but still let my feet do their natural thing (the Vibrams can be rather cold in the winter too, an actual shoe would be warmer).  Well, I found a shoe that works.

I just got my Feelmax Osmas in the mail yesterday (Feelmax is a company in Finland that makes several models of "minimalist footwear"--the Osma is their first running model).  Did a 5-mile run in them yesterday and I love this shoe.  FINNS RULE!  I love Finland, Thailand, and any other country or peoples that are involved with this shoe.  Seriously...these are the best shoes I've ever tried.  I haven't done a ton of barefoot running.  Lately it's been mostly Vibram KSOs, Mizuno Wave Universe 3, and New Balance 790s.  I still occasionally run in "puffier" shoes like the Nike Free, Inov-8s, and other even more clunky trail shoes.  I might as well toss them all after running in the Osma.  Well, I may keep the KSOs, Wave Universe, and the NB790s (I run mostly trails). 

Why do I like the Osma?  They are lightweight, have a wide forefoot, no heel lift (at least it seems like zero), no cushioning, no arch support, and they have a very thin sole.  You really feel the ground (more than the KSOs or Wave Universe).  The Osmas "only" cost $80 (actually $72 with the 10% off coupon code "VIP10" from Extreme Outfitters online).  They force me to run correctly (bent knee, no heel landing, short strides, etc).  I don't think about running correctly---I just do it.  Something odd, but I like, is that when I walk in them, they actually allow me to softly land on my heel.  I can't do that barefoot or in the KSOs.  My short run felt like I had rockets attached to my ass...I kept going faster and faster without effort.  It was a warm day, but I didn't sweat.  No hard breathing.  It felt right. And the laces actually allow for custom fitting and should work well for longer ultra marathons where feet expand and might need a lace adjustment.

Except for the dorky styling--my wife says they look like "an old man's bowling shoes"--they are awesome and I wouldn't change a thing.  Maybe a bit more traction--they are completely flat with almost no tread.  All the talk on the Google Minimalist Runner list about the new Terra Plana EVOs had me wanting to buy SOMETHING.  My wife was kind enough to say "You deserve them.  Buy the EVOs (and shut-up)!"  So, I bought the Osmas instead (half the price and they were in stock at Extreme Outfitters).

A few statistics for comparison purposes.  I wear size US13 in almost all of my shoes.  I never know what size to pick with these new minimalist shoes and their fancy euro sizes.  So far, I've got it right with the KSOs and Osma.  Currently these are my favorite shoes with their respective sizes and weights (weight is one shoe):

1. Feelmax Osma, EURO47, 7.8 oz
2. Vibram KSO (black), EURO46, 7.3 oz
3. Mizuno Wave Universe 3, US13, 4.5 oz
4. New Balance 790, US13, 9.0 oz

My love affair with the Osmas may not last, but I'm happy for now.  I'll get in a few more runs...including some long tough trails and let people know if they are still perfect shoes. I have a trail marathon in KY this Saturday...and I'm tempted to wear the Osmas.  I really should stick with the NB790s...but I'm in love and not thinking straight.  Can I move to Finland and retire there?  Thailand?  I want to be close to my new love's birthplace.  The Osma may not work for trail ultra marathons (which are about the only races I do), but I'm hopeful.

Too bad spring is around the corner...I think the Osma would make a good, warmish, winter shoe.  Isn't this minimalist running movement great?  We have several models of FiveFingers, huaraches, Feelmax Osma, Terra Plana EVO, a few "racing flats" and trail Inov-8s, and maybe a running Sockwa!  It's a great time to be a runner.  And with warmer weather coming...it's back to the "unshoe" that started it all...the bare human foot.

I bought my Osmas from Extreme Outfitters.  They are also available in the USA from "Gifts from Finland."

If you want a more detailed review of the Feelmax Osma, check out this fellow's blog post from September 2009.

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Our Loyal Race Sponsors

Sponsors tend to come and go...and I've had a few of those with the Clinton Lake 30-Mile Trail Run.  Fortunately, I have also had four sponsors (and one running club) that have been with me right from the start...in fact they were on-board before the race even got off the ground (we had one false start a couple years before the actual race happened).  So please think good thoughts about these fine companies...and purchase their products and services too!  Here they are listed alphabetically:
Second Wind Running Club doesn't really count as a "sponsor" since they are the actual club that puts on the race...IT IS THEIR RACE...but I certainly appreciate that they added this trail ultra marathon to their race schedule and have supported it over the years.  I've never been one to recruit more and more sponsors.  I found a few that liked the race and they have been loyal from day one.  I guess a different race director or different running club might push for more and more sponsorships to get extra cash and products.  That's not me. 

So I offer a hearty THANK YOU to the above sponsors!  It would be hard, if not impossible, to conduct the race without you.

Monday, March 8, 2010

Current Clinton Lake Trail Conditions

In case you didn't realize it, I have been posting a quick "trail conditions" update on the top left side of this blog for a few months.  It currently reads "OK, but Muddy."  I ran the trail this weekend...both Saturday and Sunday.  Saturday was really nice--firm ground, cool temperatures, and sunshine.  Sunday wasn't as nice--clouds, rain, and still cool temperatures (but felt much colder).  Almost all of the snow and ice had melted...but mud had taken over parts of the course.  Where it wasn't muddy, it was "soft"--slippery on hills, but OK on the flats.  Unfortunately, there aren't too many "flats" on the 10-mile trail.  This week we are supposed to get rain 2-3 times before the weekend.  Nothing terrible, but a consistent chance each day.  The course is already saturated with moisture so any additional rain will just translate into more mud.  That's life!  I think it's better than more snow and ice.  Eventually I'll get tired of the muddy trails...for now I'm just happy to get back outside and run long on the trails.

I'll update my blog "Trail Conditions" status every time I run at Clinton Lake (or whenever a trusted colleague runs out there).  I'll be out of town this Saturday running at Land Between the Lakes in KY, but I'll run 10-15 miles on Sunday at Clinton Lake.  Look for my trail conditions update on Sunday afternoon.

I also have a Clinton weather gadget on the top left sidebar (just below trail conditions). It has the current temperature and sky conditions.  If you click the gadget, it'll take you to more detailed weather forecasts for the Clinton, IL region.

Sunday, March 7, 2010

Copper Canyon Ultra Marathon Today

Today, in remote canyons in Mexico, the Copper Canyon Ultra Marathon is taking place.  Native Tarahumara are running with outsiders to win cash and corn.

Here is a nice photo slide show with music from Barefoot Ted's web page (from 2007 race):



The race director, Caballo Blanco, has his own web site.  Good information about the area and the race is available on his site.  This whole race was made popular by the best selling book by Christopher McDougall "Born to Run."  Awesome book.

Friday, March 5, 2010

2010 Illinois Trail Ultra Grand Slam

This will be the third year of the i-TUGS (Illinois Trail Ultra Grand Slam). It was designed to motivate runners of all abilities to (literally & figuratively) go that extra mile.  We hope the Slam also helps advertise the four races and maybe increases the recognition of ultra running on Illinois trails.  If you are registered for the Clinton Lake 30-Mile Trail Run, consider yourself lucky--and consider doing the full Grand Slam too!  Clinton Lake is just the beginning of a journey that could bring you new ultra friends and extreme enjoyment...maybe a bit of pain too.  Here are the four trail ultra races that compose the Illinois Trail Ultra Grand Slam. I've run them all. Let me know if you have any questions.  Grand Slam races (in order by race date):
  1. Clinton Lake 30
  2. McNaughton Park 50/100
  3. Rock Cut Hobo 50K
  4. Farmdale 32
    If you wanted to do the Grand Slam, but didn't register for Clinton in time...it's too late.  Sorry.  If you are one of the "lucky" Clinton Lake ultra runners, do your best to finish Clinton and then register for the other three races before they close. No whining if something goes wrong. No whining if you wait and get locked out. I hope the i-TUGS continues for many years...but you never know.  These informal alliances are hard to maintain.  Get in while there is still time...do the Slam in 2010!

    Wednesday, March 3, 2010

    Current Course Records

    For anyone coming to this year's Clinton Lake 30-Mile Trail Run, here are the targets to shoot for if you want to set a course record:

    Male = 3:56:20 (Logan Martin, 2009)
    Female = 4:29:50 (Christine Crawford, 2009)

    I guess 2009 was a good year for records!  Actually, we did have a nice dry course for about the first 3 hours, then rain, sleet, and high winds picked up and the last hours were miserable. At the end of the race, the course was muddy, watery, and slippery.  Plus, it was cold, damp, and windy.  I have a feeling that we will have mud this year.  The ground is saturated and all the snow hasn't even melted yet.  Spring typically brings fairly frequent rain to central Illinois.  Oh well...trail runs are more fun with mud anyway!

    No promises, but in the past we've given $50 to anyone setting a new course record...plus a little extra cash to buy breakfast at the Farmer City cafe.

    Tuesday, March 2, 2010

    Natural Runners Get Extra Prizes

    I've decided to give a couple extra "random" prizes to any Clinton Lake ultra racers that run the trail (and finish) either barefoot or in Vibram FiveFinger shoes (KSO model pictured at left).  Home-made huaraches/sandals might work too.  At the race start, and finish, show me you are running natural and I'll make a note so you'll be eligible for some extra prizes.  Racing flats don't count---it would be too hard to draw the line at what is a racing flat and what is a lightweight trainer.  To qualify, you gotta be completely barefoot (this option also gets you a big hug from me and an extra dose of respect), have bare bones huaraches, or wear FiveFinger shoes (any model).  Am I on Vibram's payroll?  No...although I did approach them about race sponsorship.  They had too many sponsorships this year, but said next year was a possibility.  I got a free t-shirt.  I'm starting this to promote runners getting back to natural running.  If nothing else, it should generate some discussion and debate.  Our feet are fantastic tools so let them work without restrictions! If no one qualifies, then the prizes will go to "regular, non-natural" racers...except for the cool, hand-made, coffee mug...that may go to the race director who'll be wearing his FiveFinger KSOs!  Sweet.

    Personally, I hope to run a 50K trail ultra this fall in my FiveFinger shoes.  Maybe Rock Cut Hobo in September of Farmdale in October?  They are both part of the Grand Slam and the courses aren't too technical.  Wish me luck...and I wish all the Clinton Lake runners luck too...especially if you are trying for one of the extra "natural runner" prizes.

    Feel free to protest this race director decision.  I read & respond to blog comments.  And if you are really upset, start your own race and make whatever decisions you want...or you are welcome to be Clinton Lake race director next year and make similar bone-headed choices.

    NOTE: Make the transition to barefoot or minimalist shoes slowly.  It's easy to overdo it.