I didn't reach my goal of running every day but I did manage personal bests in mileage and vertical for the month of January. My body is feeling strong and lean but I have work to do. I had some solid weekend back to backs and enjoyed some training runs with friends. Gemini 100k is less than 2 months away. I'd like to get close to 200 miles this month. This could be difficult as the skiing is excellent this year and I'm torn between running and skiing. At least I'm working the legs either way.
Once again I'm struggling with balance. My body is ready for more and I feel more invested this year than last. Family is important and I need to find a way so they don't feel like they are sacrificing too much. There will be weekends that are lost to mountain runs so I need to minimize the impact on weekdays. I'm hoping with longer days around the corner this will become easier. I've added 3 work runs a week to my schedule but that adds only 10 miles a week. I'll figure it out, I'm sure.
We met this past month to discuss the Tommyknocker 50/100k. I will be working with a great team led by Sherpa John to put on a quality event. This is new to me and I'm excited for the challenge and to give back to the community that has added much value to my life the past few years.
Here are some highlights from January and early February.
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| Failed Quandary attempt with Jerry. Thigh high snow until tree line. Wind was unsafe. We turned back just above 13,000 feet. Photo by Jerry Armstrong. |
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| 2x North Table Mountain in Golden with David. 4 inches fresh snow. |
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| Ken Caryl foothill trails. Deep and untouched. |
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| Epic powder day at Vail. 21 glorious inches! Days like this is what you live for. Photo Lee McKitrick. |
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| Flat Irons from Chautauqua with David H. Green/Beer loop before the snow hit. |
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| Sunrise from Lyonsback in Ken Caryl. |
