Ancient Oaks 100

I'm always hesitant to post race reports.  Does anyone actually want to read them?  Am I doing this only for myself?  Whatever.  Here it is!

I had to apply for Ancient Oaks in July.  At that point, I had ruptured the rotator cuff and was awaiting surgery.  The race was scheduled for December 20-21, 2014.  My husband couldn't understand how I could commit myself to a race that I wasn't sure I'd be able to do.  On the other hand, I knew there was no better incentive to train and get back in shape than to have a commitment hanging over my head.

I'm glad I did it.  Ancient Oaks is put on by Race Director, Mike Melton.  It's 29, 3.46 mile loops through the Enchanted Forest in Titusville, Florida.  You pass by your car 28 times so you can have all the comforts of home at your finger tips.  The parking lot is full of music, lights and fun.  People show up at the race to "pace".  Pacing is running or walking with  someone who wants company.

There were tons of Vol Staters there.  I got to hang out with Steve Tursi, my streaking mentor, who just celebrated four years of streaking on Sunday.  Fred M. who just celebrated his 33rd year of streaking in the last few days.  Sheri, Stu (the man who started the race), Robin, Lynnor, Scott K, Scott M, Kyrstin (my new running partner), Mike B, Juan, Marilyn, Jim Schroeder and Jessie.  Best of all, I got to spend a lot of time with my pacer/crew/babysitter, Margie.  She's the best and did a great job with me.  I'd guess she put in 55 miles or so.  Good training for her next race!

Thanks to everyone who made this whirlwind weekend what it was.  Thank you volunteers, thank you husband, thank you ultra running friends and thanks Melton!

An ancient oak

Kyrstin and Jessie.  Kyrstin finished AO and it was her first 100.

Steve, Fred and me

Jim Schroeder and Mike Melton.  The thing Mike is holding is the award all finishers get.  They are colored by school kids and they are all different.

Margie wearing the official Hardman Crew uniform, tiara and apron

Eggs and bacon cooked by Margie, Jessie looks on skeptically

Mike Baker finishing his first 100.  See video below if you want to know what it feels like to finish 100 miles

Kyrstin's message to runners who were behind her

The wonderful Marilyn finishing DFL (Dead Fucking Last) but well under the cutoff!  Marilyn was my crew for R40R

My hero, streaker of 33 years, Fred M

Margie and I about .5 from the finish of the race.  We are on the only "hill" of the race

Done!  PR by 15 minutes.  28:27 or something like that

If you're easily offended, don't watch this video.  It's comprised mostly of swearing.  This is what your body and mind feel like after going 100 miles!