Mini Beast reflections: Beast of Burden 25 mile race report

There is only one constant in our lives
and that is change.

As I pulled into a parking spot on Mill street I couldn't help but think about how different this time running the erie canal tow path would be.

About 6 months earlier I had pulled into a parking spot on Mill street in my cold gear leggings and a winter jacket. The heat in my car was blasting and my music was turned down to a dull rumble. I was nervous- but had the support of my family and three of my friends who were willing to pace me in my 50 mile race. The real feel temperature was in the single digits and as the race started I had no idea what to expect. Pure adrenaline ran through me.

But this time was different. Due to an injury a few weeks prior I would only be running the 25 mile version of the race. The temperature was in the 80s- and my pacers in the previous race were no longer with me. Each is dealing with their own struggles- one has a family member with health concerns, the other with a job that hasn't left him much time to run, and the other a product of a failed romantic relationship.

I currently have good relationships with all of them, but it was bittersweet knowing that I would be traveling this course without their company.

The temperature changed, the company changed, the distance changed, and my apprehension was totally different. No longer was adrenaline pumping through me- but doubt. I was concerned about my injured heel holding up on the course.

Im typically a chatty guy at races, but this time was different. I put in my ear plugs at the start line and become mostly silent for the rest of the event. I think I was trying to drown my feelings of self doubt in Rage Against the Machine and Radiohead music. Thankfully it worked.

The heat and humidity were difficult to manage. I found myself with stomach discomfort after each gel I consumed- luckily I had brought some ginger candies with me to battle the pain.

At the last Aid Station I filled my water bottle and poured cups of water over my head. As soon as I left Radioheads "High and Dry" played into my ears- a funny reminder of how I hadn't actually drank any water at the station.

As I ran the final miles I couldn't help but think about the past. So much has changed for me in few months- but had I not returned back to this course I may not have realized it. 

Upon finishing I was helped into an aid station tent by Jim Pease and Dwight- a massage therapist from New York City. We chatted about ultra running- mostly about how crazy I thought they both were for running hundred mile races. Dwight told me about his 100 mile journey just a few months prior- he said that it was his first race ever. No 5ks, 10ks, half marathons, or marathons- just 100 miles. I was floored.

I watched few runners come into the 25 mile mark- many of whom were running the 100 mile race and were looking very fresh. I iced my ankles and knees and felt grateful that I could even complete the 25 mile race today. I felt no envy towards these runners- just gratitude.

There were many repeat customers from the winter version of the Beast of Burden. It was good seeing them - these crazy people that I share a passion with. It was a beautiful reminder that although many things were different in this race, some things had not changed- my own desire to run.

25 miles in 3:05


Thanks to all volunteers of the Beast of Burden ultra marathon and to the Race Directors Ken and Bob! Congrats to Sam Corey, Heather Burger, Laura Makey, Denise Salmons, Justin Fitzgerald, Will Sulak, Tammy Messmer, Kevin Carrigan and everyone else that ran in the heat and humidity on August 9th 2014. You all inspire me :)

Be safe and always remember to run your own race.