I have never really considered myself a sports guy, I don't like watching baseball, football was never really interesting (other than the cheerleaders), soccer is interesting, but I did run. I started in 7th grade when my parent demanded I do a sport once a year, I just never really stopped. Even when at my heaviest I could still complete a 5k on pure muscle memory and it was always a peaceful place for me. During my angsty teenage years, I ran to escape and not much has changed in my adult life, only the things I need an escape from.
A new goal as I approach 40: I want to complete the ultra at the Burning man Event. I wanted to do it last year, but life coupled with some health issues for my wife stopped me from making the training headway I needed to complete such a monumental task. I have watched these crazy costumed fanatic runners for the past 7 years and every time I shake my head knowing I have not put in the work to join their crazy tribe. What happened to that kid 20 years ago who ran state finals as it started to snow? Well in short life, and about 50 lbs of extra weight. I have been working on that for some years now, but it's hit or miss and this year has been a shit storm of trouble bringing me back up to the 220 range.
So what changed? why now? My own son is now in 7th grade and together we have discovered the sport of rugby... and we fell, we fell hard for it. I went and tried out for a local team and I made it... as a forward. Yup, I am that guy now, one of the big boys who my fellow ruggers joke about drinking gallons of beer and multiple burgers. well shit! So time to fix me and show my son that when you set your mind to something you do it.
So whats the plan? I will over the next week post about a training plan, for both rugby and the the ultra, because the ultra endurance will help me survive an 80 minute match and the rugby strength building will help me increase my sprint speed. I will follow a couple of different and funny youtubers and athletic trainers (because one needs inspriation) and I will post here about the highs and lows of getting back to the meanest me I can find. Hope you will follow along.
HERE is a little info about the Burning Man Ultra.
What: The Eight Burning Man Ultramarathon.
How: Pull on your running sneakers, grab a bottle of water or hydration pack, your favorite energy snacks, and hit the playa for one of the most unique and insane 50ks out there. Wear whatever you love best while running – whether that’s a tutu, sports bra and tights, or nothing at all. And be sure to have a Burning Man ticket – it’s impossible to run without one!
Why: Because it’s fun. Because it’s insane. Because it’s the ultimate high. Because you want to challenge yourself. Because we are working on really rad finishers’ presents! Because the race is a party! Because you don’t mind people chasing after you with bottles of whiskey while you run!
What else: Pink Lightning Camp will be the race headquarters, start, finish, and aid station. Stop by to view the big map, results, ask questions, use our foam rollers and running sticks, take a yoga class, run our beer mile, the 5k, run easy, or just hang out with some friendly folks. During the race, we’ll have cocktails, fun, music, and lots of cheering. Have your friends come to the healthiest party on the playa! Come on by to volunteer, hang out, pace, or run!
Wait, what: What’s Burning Man? Well…kind of like utopian playground for adults, with art, music, dancing, amazing people, and lots of dust.!
